Isabella

Italy, April 2013, we arrived with our little dachshund Izzi-B—with us for the first time. The trans-Atlantic flight was uneventful and she adjusted quickly to Italian life. We take her everywhere with us, carrying her in the special doggy sling-pouch. She goes to the coffee bar, grocery, movies, restaurants—you name it (except museums). We found that people really respond to her. They approach us and want to know about her. Quite often, their first thought is that she’s a puppy. In fact she is 16.

People take her little head in their hands and baby-talk her until we have to excuse ourselves. They actually light-up at the sight of Izzi. So we decided to write a fast song, full of action about her Italian adventure. She is an ambassador of good will, brightening people’s days. She brings us into contact with perfect strangers, with whom we might never have spoken otherwise. It’s been fascinating to see how a little dog can have such a positive impact on people—around the world!

Music

Lyrics

Cappuccino, elbow on the bar
“Ciao Riccardo!” as the morning starts
All the usual suspects are there
Chatting, laughing
Delighted to see Isabella
Smiling, patting

Arrivederci! on to the Utilità
Roberta grins when we ask her, Come va?
There’s a message written across
Our special order
Per Piccolina
Isabella

She makes everybody smile, just like a child
When they look into her eyes, she seems wise
She can soothe a troubled face, clear a fog
Even though she’s just a little dog

Her sweet nature just draws everybody in
Closer, sharing secrets—it seems she has a hint
Though she never says a word
On their faces, it appears as if they heard
Everything they hoped to hear and more

Piccolina! as they rub her ear
Day made brighter, just by drawing near
Changed with everyone that they meet
Chatting, laughing
Turning squarely toward Isabella
Waving, pointing

She makes everybody smile, just like a child
When they look into her eyes, she seems wise
She can soothe a troubled face, clear a fog
Even though she’s just a little dog

Credits

From Borne Album                                                                                                                                          Track released September 10, 2013
Cheryl Martlage – Lyrics, vocals and production
Emerson Martlage – Music, guitar, vocals and production