This is the first-person non-fiction account of several years in the lives of a man approaching retirement and his chocolate Lab as she gradually loses her sight. It painstakingly traces the subtle but inexorable changes in Bessie, an exuberant passionate retriever, and lover of humanity, as Bessie struggles to make sense of a world of increasing darkness and learns to compensate for her disability. As Bessie adapts, so does Tom; his behaviors alter in response to her behaviors. Tom becomes more watchful, mindful, compassionate, and also ingenious as he dreams up ways to make her life easier and better. Tom's love for her grows and grows.

Thomas W. Farmen is the Headmaster Emeritus of Rumsey Hall School in Washington, Connecticut. He and his wife Ashley worked in partnership at the school for over four decades and now live in rural New Hampshire. Dog owners for all of their forty-plus years of marriage, the Farmens travel, pursue a variety of outdoor interests, and are active volunteers. Ashley is a New Hampshire Granite State Ambassador. Tom serves on the board for several non-profit organizations, including Special Olympics of New Hampshire, and is an ambassador at Mount Sunapee ski area. The Farmens have two adult sons.

This event is free and open to the public any questions please contact Tracey at (802)-885-3108.