Hebe-the-dog has a boyfriend.

Since the middle of February, they have been meeting regularly in the park on the links.

Some background: ever since Hebe was 5 months old, she has been wary of other dogs. The reason stems from an incident when we were sitting on a bench in a deserted wood - absorbing the remoteness - when Hebe spotted a couple of walkers coming towards us. She barked twice just to warn me of their approach. Not an aggressive bark, in my opinion.

Next, out of nowhere, a staffie cross raced towards us, barking blue-murder, and grabbed Hebe on the back.

We were both shocked.

But more shocked when her owners idled up and explained their dog was just being 'friendly'. Both me and Hebe refuted this.

Hebe was not cut, but it obviously left mental scars 'cos she approached other dogs more cautiously after that - always hoping to play, but bolting for cover if they barked. Expecting a bite, no doubt.

Tricky sitation.

Then she met Oscar - a 7 year old portly, easy-oasy Golden Lab. They instantly formed a friendship. Patiently, Oscar educated her in the way of splashing about in massive puddles. Hebe is not a fan of water. And he introduced her to dogs that he already knew to be friendly, shielding her - bodily - from dogs he deemed doubtful.

Labs have such an inbuilt caring nature!

They are now firm friends and Hebe is more confident in meeting other canines - at least, until they bark. Then she looks to Oscar for advice.

They wander along, Hebe mirroring Oscar. I wouldn't be a bit surprised if a cat didn't tag along behind. It just reminds me of The Incredible Journey with the Lab Retriever, the Terrier and the cat!

Hebe will be one year old next month. An incredible year with a new pup, and an incredible year of Lockdown.

I'm looking forward to continued fun with one, and a total easing of the other.

I'm heartened by the Spring birdsong, the extended daylight, the appearance of snowdrops and the formation of buds. I'm ever hopeful of shoving my winter boots to the back of the cupboard, my woollen gloves to the back of the drawer and my facemask to the bottom of the bin.

The last 12 months have certainly been an incredible journey!