Toys Of The Trade

Barley, a dog, lies on an office carpet with a black rubber bone and a plush yeti.

These two toys have become the office champions, each playing a distinct role. The bone is chiefly a way of directing social energy: Barley only chews on it when I meet with others in my office. The yeti, by contrast, just for playtime between Barley and myself when other visitors are in short supply. When she is alone, both are ignored, for the only sensible activity when alone is to sleep.