We returned from a week in California on Wednesday evening. The next night, we adjourned to our back deck to enjoy the day’s last light.

There I found a paper bag containing two newspapers, one dated that same day, and a box. Once in the house, I pulled them out. The newspapers had been delivered while we were gone, and must have been picked up from their usual spot in the driveway.

Then there was an unopened box of Milk Bone dog biscuits with two messages written in black ink.

We have no idea who might have dropped off this thoughtful gift. This is the same type of dog biscuits that I carry every morning and distribute to the dogs we meet along the way (in exchange for their photos!).

I’ve reached out to those I thought most likely to have left the Milk Bones. All deny responsibility.

“Cookie Uncle” is an interesting choice of words. It leads me to believe the source is from Hawaii, where “Uncle” is a term of respect used to address older males you interact with. Women would similarly be referred to as “Aunty.”

That said, it unfortunately doesn’t get me any closer to identifying the mystery source!

A nice mystery, though. A thoughtful gesture.

If the mystery donor is reading this, I thank you!