Meet Zephyr & Stefania

Precious Pets on the Porches of I'On

Zephyr
Hello. I’m Zephyr the Papillion. It’s a Greek name and means “gentle breeze.” It also appears in
Shakespeare, Cymbeline (Act 4, Scene 2); "They are as gentle as zephyrs blowing below the
violet". I think it fits me well. Yes, it is true that I might not be gentle when I bark at other dogs,
but that’s only because I don’t want them to talk to my hooman. Otherwise, I’m a sweetie.
I came to live with my hooman in Del Mar in March 2020. It was great timing, because in mid
In March 2020, my hooman started working from home full-time. (Something about a “virus”.) It
was great, except for all those endless Zoom conferences. I loathe Zoom conferences and
therefore believe it is appropriate to bark at them, which unfortunately results in me not getting a
cookie
In May 2022, I moved to Charleston. Although I liked my ocean view walks in Del Mar, living in
I’On is better. Actually, all that really matters is being with my hooman, and she loves it here and
so do I.
Usually, my day begins with a few minutes of yoga (downward dog and warrior poses). After that,
it’s time for a game of fetch—I hide my ball under the coffee table and then whine until my
hooman fetches it. Then it’s time for breakfast, and I do love Charleston cuisine! Next, it’s time
for my music appreciation session. My hooman is taking piano lessons, and when she practices
(which is a lot), I take my place by the piano and listen attentively. She’s still learning, but I’m
very supportive and don’t mind wrong notes.
Recently, my BFF Chloe went over the Rainbow Bridge. I don’t know who was sadder—me or
my hooman. I didn’t even want to go on walks without Chloe. That’s when Stefania showed up.
She’s working out great and is a good walking buddy, but I’ll let her speak for herself.

Stefania
I’m Stefania the Papillion. My name is pronounced with the accent on the second syllable. It’s a
Greek name meaning the “crowned one.” The back story on my name is that although I was
born in South Carolina, my mother dog is from Greece, and thus all of the puppies were given
Greek names. My hooman has a rule that all her dogs must have Greek names with special
meanings. Imagine that; it must be that I was meant for her! My hooman also says my name fits
me perfectly, because I have a regal manner and appearance. But I’m still waiting for my tiara to
arrive. Perhaps it’s out of stock at Chewy?
I’d like to make clear that Zephyr is not the only fan of piano music in this house. In fact, I am
more discerning and am partial to Chopin. No Elton John or Disney tunes for this Papillion! My
favorite piece is the Chopin Prelude Op. 28, No. 15, known as the "Raindrop", which I find very
calming. I’m really hoping that someday my hooman can play it well.
I’m still a puppy, but I'm growing up fast. My hooman says I’m a sweetie with a dash of sass, and
I believe it. I love living here in I’On with my hooman and BFF, Zephyr. I’m particularly pleased to
be the newest member of the Ionsborough Street dog club, which is a terrific group.

See you all in the ‘hood!