December 7th 2000

I just got back from Kumamoto, Kyushu. We had the most wonderful sunny weather. In between rehearsals and show time, I sneaked out of the hotel to have fun at Bow Wow Playland. Bow Wow Playland has 350 dogs and 80 species, from St. Bernards to Great Pyrexes to Toy Tihuahuas. There were Dog Races, Dog Circuses, a "Touch-me Pavilion" etc. Boy was it fun!
　One dog especially caught my eyes, the Tibetan Spaniel. It was sable brown, (they come in a variety of colors), and about the size of an over-grown Pomeranian, about 5-6 kilograms. This dog was found in the Tibetan monasteries and is said to be sent by God. It is a Symbol of the Monastery and loved by all the successive Dalai Lamas.
　The Tibetan Spaniel has eyes that can see (correct?) miles away. His wide, round forehead gives him a wise and intelligent look. He is never annoyed by children running and screaming around him. There is even a legend that says this Tibetan Spaniel actually helped the Dalai Lama with his services! And I believe it after seeing him "in person". It's hard to explain, but there is something about him that makes me believe in these tales. It must be in their genes. I always wanted to meet this dog after reading about him din magazines and books. This encounter was really unforgettable.