The Gentle Giant

The heat of summer settled in early this year - in the month of May to be precise.  Welcome to Illinois, declared every meteorologist.

Some happily embraced the warmth, given the frigid cold and blizzard condition in the winter prior.  Many despised the summer season because of dangerous heat indexes and ominous thunderstorms.  Amy was one of these many, especially when keeping up with her rascal two-year-old son, Jack.

Amy was a stay-at-home mother of just Jack.  One would think that raising an only child would be easier than caring for more than one.  Jack proved that theory wrong.  He loved to play with his toys and anything that could be a toy.  Amy could never catch one second to herself, which frustrated her because her husband traveled often for his entrepreneurial business.

But then there is Michael - the family's seven-year-old giant Great Dane.  He was adopted straight out of nursing.  When Jack was born, Michael took on a protective role.  As Jack has grown, Michael has learned to be patient, tolerant, and gentle.  In fact, Michael is most known for his gentle nature.  Jack, though, tends to be a rascal around Michael - tugging roughly at his ears, burying his little toddler body into Michael's giant body at nap time.

Jack loves to play outside.  Amy and Michael are always very close behind.  In this summer heat, though, Amy was concerned for Jack's health.  But Jack did not want to be indoors.  She hinted at her son every toy he would want to play with inside.  He said no.

"Michael!" Amy shouted out, hoping he could convince Jack.

With her shout, Jack raced into their home and played with Michael until he was exhausted.  The two fell asleep for a long nap.

All Jack needed to calm down was Michael's gentle giant love.