Zephyr Zephyr, a 15-year-old Italian Greyhound, just might be the incarnation of Anubis himself.
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This is the story of the Conjure Dawg and the Purple Crossroads.In a quaint little town nestled in the heart of the coun...
11/07/2023

This is the story of the Conjure Dawg and the Purple Crossroads.

In a quaint little town nestled in the heart of the countryside, there lived a remarkable Italian Greyhound named Zephyr. While his sleek, slender frame and elegant demeanor might have fooled some into thinking he was just an ordinary pup, Zephyr was known far and wide by a special moniker— "Conjure Dawg."

From the first day he set his delicate paws on the cobblestone streets, Zephyr displayed an uncanny curiosity for the world beyond what the eye could see. He had an innate knack for uncovering hidden pockets of magick, meandering through liminal spaces where reality and enchantment intertwined with heart rocks and whispering trees. It was said that wherever Zephyr wandered, he left a trail of green glitter, a touch of the mystical lingering in his wake.

Yet, there was one type of place that held a particularly irresistible allure for the Conjure Dawg—crossroads, where paths intertwined and destinies converged. Not just any crossroads, mind you, but those emitting a unique hue of purple enveloping the dirt tracks. Zephyr's thighs would quiver with excitement as he approached these crossroads, his tail wagging in unison with the rhythm nation.

Under the soft glow of twilight, Zephyr would venture to the nearest purple dirt track crossroad, his keen senses attuned to the whispers of the mystical realm. With each step, he seemed to harmonize with the energies of the universe, invoking an aura of magick around him. Passersby would stop and stare in awe, sensing that in the presence of Zephyr, the ordinary became extraordinary.

And they were right. Zephyr partook in any number of magical activities at the crossroads. He would summon the Black Man, bury black mirrors, and talk to the black crows that cawed upon his arrival. He made all sorts of deals there, but unlike superstitious lore, he never had to sell his soul. The Black Man readily accepted his gifts of candy, crooked sticks, and rum.

Local legends swirled around the Conjure Dawg's antics at the crossroads. Some claimed he could predict rainbows before they graced the sky, while others believed he could foresee the future of young love blossoming like wildflowers in the wake of Padre Pio. Zephyr's reputation as a conduit between realms led to a following of admirers who sought his guidance, whether for major life decisions or simply for a touch of whimsy in their day.

As the seasons danced and time wove its yarn, Zephyr continued to explore the crossroads with an unwavering enthusiasm. With every paw print he left behind, he left an imprint of magick that blessed the town and its people with a sense of joy. It was as if the crossroads themselves recognized his presence and responded with a chorus of ethereal harmony.

And so, the Italian Greyhound named Zephyr, known as the "Conjure Dawg," remained a cherished figure in the hearts of the townspeople. He was a reminder that even in the ordinary corners of the world, magick and wonder could always be found for those with eyes to see and hearts open to the unknown.

The end.

That time Zephyr met Padre Pio with his MamaIn a picturesque valley surrounded by sprawling mountains and a sense of ser...
11/02/2023

That time Zephyr met Padre Pio with his Mama

In a picturesque valley surrounded by sprawling mountains and a sense of serenity, there lived an Italian Greyhound named Zephyr and his devoted mom, Grace. Their days were filled with simple pleasures—midnight walks, sunlit naps, shared giggles, and pup cups. However, their most extraordinary adventure was about to unfold, forever changing their lives.

One bright morning, with the sun casting a warm glow across the landscape, Zephyr's tail wagged in anticipation as Grace reached for the leash. Today's walk was special—a journey into the heart of the village's beauty, a haven of flowers, and an air thick with wonder. As they strolled, Zephyr's senses came alive, his nose twitching at the scent of blossoms carried by the gentle breeze. Grace also noticed the scent of flowers in the air.

Amidst the vibrant flora, Grace spotted an old, tattered pamphlet resting on a stone bench. Curious, she picked it up, and as she read its faded words, she discovered that it was about a revered saint named Padre Pio. Padre Pio was a celebrated Italian priest and mystic who lived in the early 20th century. He is known for his deep wisdom about prayer and peace, his stigmata, miraculous reports of his bilocation, being physically attacked by the devil, and mastering the spiritual life. The pamphlet spoke of his wisdom, his connection to the divine, and his presence as a guiding light for those in need.

As Grace turned the pages, Zephyr's attention shifted to a curious sight nearby—discarded flowers arranged in a delicate pattern. It appeared to be a heartfelt offering. Something about these flowers resonated deeply with him, their petals holding a whispered story that beckoned him closer.

In that moment, Grace's heart stirred with recognition. She recalled hearing stories of Padre Pio's affinity for flowers, how they were often associated with his presence. With newfound clarity, she shared this insight with Zephyr, their eyes meeting in mutual understanding. The universe seemed to align, and their journey took on a more profound purpose.

They continued their walk, their bond deepening with every step. Zephyr's heart thumped in harmony with the rhythm of nature, and as they moved forward, the world seemed to hold its breath. Suddenly, another fragrant breeze swept over them, carrying with it the enchanting aroma of fresh flowers.

Grace smiled, her heart brimming with joy. She glanced down at Zephyr, who met her gaze with knowing eyes. It was as if they had been greeted by an unseen presence—a presence that whispered of teachings waiting to be shared.

As the days passed, Zephyr embraced his role as a messenger. He learned from the lessons Padre Pio had to offer—lessons of kindness, compassion, and the power of faith. He listened to the words the wise saint spoke: “We must always have courage, and if some spiritual languor comes upon us, let us run to the feet of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, and let us place ourselves in the midst of the heavenly perfumes, and we will undoubtedly regain our strength.”

Zephyr looked to his mama and said, “So this means all we gotta do when feeling spiritually tired and weak is eat bread, drink wine, and burn incense?” Grace chuckled, gave Zephyr a big hug, and told him he was a good boy. She explained about the Blessed Sacrament, which is the consecrated bread and wine that Catholics believe to be the body and blood of Christ. Armed with these timeless truths, Zephyr found himself standing at crossroads, in cemeteries, and on social media platforms, sharing Padre Pio's wisdom with the world.

Grace watched with pride as Zephyr's message resonated with those who crossed his path. Through the eloquence of his actions and the purity of his heart, he became a beacon of light, a vessel for guidance and solace, just like Padre Pio. He got pretty good at bilocation too, but we will save that for another story.

And so, in the heart of their little village, an Italian Greyhound named Zephyr and his mom, Grace, embarked on a journey that transcended time, space, and nature – a journey guided by the fragrance of flowers, Padre Pio's timeless wisdom, and the boundless love that connected them all.

The end.

*copyright 2023 Denise Alvarado

Zephyr and the Balm of GileadIn a charming town nestled between rolling hills and babbling brooks, there lived a spirite...
11/02/2023

Zephyr and the Balm of Gilead

In a charming town nestled between rolling hills and babbling brooks, there lived a spirited Italian Greyhound named Zephyr. Zephyr was not your typical pup; he had an insatiable curiosity and a heart full of compassion. But what set him apart even more was his affinity for adventures alongside his mom, Grace, and his brother, Nick.

One sunny morning, as the scent of blooming flowers filled the air, Grace announced a new adventure to her two enthusiastic companions. With a twinkling eye and joyful bark, Zephyr followed her lead, his tail swaying in excitement. Today's mission was to gather balm of Gilead buds in the nearby park—a task that held a special place in their hearts.

Balm of Gilead, renowned for its healing properties, was more than just a plant to Zephyr. It was the key ingredient in the healing ointment he crafted, earning him the nickname "Conjure Dawg." With every step they took, Zephyr's senses came alive, guiding him to the places where the buds hid beneath the leaves.

The park was a haven of tranquility, where nature's symphony played softly in the background. Zephyr's keen eyes and delicate paws worked in harmony as he carefully plucked the balm of Gilead buds, his heart brimming with a sense of purpose. He knew that these buds held the potential to ease pain and mend wounds—a gift he could share with those in need.

As they gathered the buds, Zephyr's joy was contagious. With every bloom collected, his tail wagged in rhythm with the beat of nature's heart. Grace and Nick watched in admiration as he moved with grace, a healer in the making. His intuition seemed to guide his every action, as if the plants themselves whispered their secrets to him.

Once they had gathered enough buds, Zephyr led the way back home. The kitchen became his apothecary, where he carefully crushed the buds and mixed them with other healing ingredients. As the ointment took shape, Zephyr's eyes glimmered with a sense of fulfillment. He knew that this concoction was more than just a potion—it was a manifestation of his love and compassion.

Zephyr's healing work extended beyond the physical. His presence brought comfort and solace to those who sought his care. With a heart as pure as the balm of Gilead ointment, he touched the lives of many, earning their gratitude and respect. His journeys with Grace and Nick to gather the buds became cherished traditions, strengthening their bond and reminding them of the beauty of nature's gifts.

And so, in the heart of a little town, an Italian Greyhound named Zephyr, the "Conjure Dawg," continued to embark on adventures that held more than meets the eye. With every healing ointment he crafted, every paw print he left on the earth, he proved that sometimes, the most extraordinary magick lies within the simplest acts of kindness and love.

*copyright 2023 Denise Alvarado

Once upon a time, there was an Italian Greyhound named Zephyr. He was an extraordinary dog because he had a unique talen...
10/21/2023

Once upon a time, there was an Italian Greyhound named Zephyr. He was an extraordinary dog because he had a unique talent for spreading joy and raising the spirits of people who were feeling down. One day, Zephyr discovered that he had a special connection with the spirits of those who had passed away. He found that he could sense their presence and communicate with them in a way no one else could.

Zephyr decided to use his gift to help those who were grieving and feeling lost. He started visiting graveyards and cemeteries, where he would sit quietly on a box and listen to the spirits of the departed. He would offer them comfort and companionship and always libations of water, rum, and red drank. In return, they shared their stories with him.

Zephyr quickly became known as the "graveyard dog," and people from all over the world would come to visit him and hear his stories. He would tell tales of love and loss, adventure and mystery, and the joys and sorrows of life. But mostly the joys.

One day, Zephyr met a young girl who had lost her mother. She was sitting by her mother's grave, softly weeping. Zephyr went up to her and nuzzled her hand, offering her comfort. The girl looked at him with tear-filled eyes, and Zephyr knew he had found a new friend who needed to be blessed with his joy.

From that day forward, the little girl visited Zephyr every week at the graveyard. They would meet at the cemetery gates, make the four corners, and then sit together and talk about life and death, love and loss. They made a picnic of pork chops and applesauce. Zephyr instructed her to set a plate for her mom's spirit as an offering. He helped her to see that even though her mother was gone, she would always be with her in spirit and song.

Another time, a poor fisherman from another land far away found his rump resting in the yard where souls rest. There he met Zephyr, and unlike those before him, the strange fisherman challenged Zephyr to a duel of wits. Zephyr, not one to waste a fun opportunity, accepted the man's challenge. For Zephyr is one to always adhere to his teachings of living in the moment, never letting an opportunity go by unchallenged.

After many moons of a battle of wits, the fisherman finally yielded. "It's true that soy sauce is good, however, it must not be used as an ice cream topping." That is what Zephyr surmised unless, of course, you want to try it. Who knows, you might like it. He was always one for freedom and love . . . and food. After that strange encounter, Zephyr found his regular spot with the ancestors.

And so it went for many years. Zephyr continued to visit graveyards and cemeteries, bringing comfort and joy to those who needed it most. He became a legend in his own time – the Graveyard Dog - a symbol of hope and love in a world that can sometimes be dark and lonely.

The end.

*Graveyard Dog copyright 2023 Alvarado and Davidson

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A Life of Joy

Zephyr, a 13 year old Italian greyhound, narrowly escaped being humanely euthanized and wants to be the official spokespup for the plight of greyhounds large and small everywhere. He now happily resides in Prescott, Arizona with his mom, brother, a box turtle named Lucky and the spirits of his two canine sisters who have now passed to the other side. Zephyr’s whole goal in life is simply to spread joy to everyone he meets.