Maia's mother/my wife died last year.  I needed to conduct her memorial, care for her remains, and commemorate her life with our children-all far away.  Maia could not be with me. Maia was grieving as I was, napping in the closet amongst mom's clothes and lingering scents, moping around, seeking my company unusually frequently.  I consulted my circle of dog friends about Maia staying at a known and therefore healthy/emotionally warm/nutritive kennel setting, but with a 3 month horizon all such GOOD places were previously scheduled & unavailable.  A special friend, whom I sincerely trust, told me of Leslie and Frank: "Leslie speaks dog.  She knows animals, is empathic with them, and knows how to please them and shape their behaviors.  She loves animals deeply.  Frank is a professional photographer, perfectionist, and philosopher.  Frank is a true partner to Leslie; they help one another in all situations. They care for your home while they are caring for your dog.  When you return, your dog and your home will be better for their stay." I have discovered their soft, kind, gentle and always thoughtful weekly blog.  I have discovered their broad sense of a need to help others.  I am in awe of their artistic productivity in Painting, Photography, and Writing.  I am impressed with their willingness to help me in my frenzies to leave home, and in re-adapting to home when I return.  But, most importantly, I am struck by how Maia seems to love Leslie upon my returns, and how I have to cajole, entice, and lure Maia to pay attention to me when I return because she has bonded so well with Leslie in my absence.  I know that it is a good thing that I can see upon my return home that Maia loves Leslie, reflecting Leslie's empathic insights into my dog.  And yet, sigh... I confess that I am a little bit jealous.  I have to work so hard to be sure Maia is content and happy.  And Leslie provides that love and happiness for Maia so easily (it seems).  Maia and I have no reservations about this wonderful pair helping in your life.  They are heart true.   Maia and I give them the "4 paws clapping" award.  Leslie and Frank are, paws down, the best we've ever wished for.     Robert M. Shuman, M.D.