My mind’s racing, running circles around itself, rumbling thoughts of The Big Shindig at Russell’s. The one, where every shade of fur and hound- pedigree and mutt alike, would convene. Spencerville suspends time as I, your humble narrator, let you stroll with me down Western Labradoodle Lake, past Shepherd Skyline till we wager upon Westie Woods. The sun’s rays drape around our homely habitat but it’s Russell’s abode that’s abuzz tonight.

Targets–that’s what we’re looking at now. There’s Russell’s beloved Blue frisbee acting all casual on Shepherd’s Skyline. Blue, haven’t seen that chap in a while. It’s had a toss or two, survived a bite, Russell had an attachment to Blue like none. His toys, more than simply material possessions, were a part of him, much like Muggsy who has since found a cozy spot on Russell’s bed.

Russell’s English Bulldog charm, like Barker’s mellow brew at Bark ‘n’ Roll, intoxicates Spencerville. The white stripe splitting his brindle coat, he’s got the charisma. His friends, now they are a posse not to mess with. Fenway loves his ball games, Spencer the graying pug is threading his family ties with Lulu and Tanner.

Moving on. Barkley, with his London swagger, sizzling in Spencerville. Lil Dot, her diva essence amplified since her hearing aid. Wrigley, ever-ready for an impromptu pizza run, and Charlie rustling up a storm in his quaint Italian kitchen. Last but not least, Millie, still leaf-obsessed, and most likely rustling up a leaf salad.

As I pave through this cobblestoned path smelling of rain and dog treats, my senses fill with the rich wafts of delicacies. Cheesesteaks, corned beef with the occasional whiff of ice cream, passing through the air from Bark and Bites to Sniff ‘n’ Snacks–it’s the scent of a party in good swing. But make no mistake, fast food wouldn’t be entertained here, no sir, and don’t get me started on bananas.

There’s the incessant sunlight, a reminder, Russell loves a good toast in the glow of the golden disc. Meanwhile, I hear echoes of joy, almost rhythmic to the tumble and splash of ocean waves. But then I quickly realize, no place for a pool or an ocean in Russell’s yard, frightened chap, he is, of vast expanses of water.

Now, let’s skip to the displeasure. The dreaded vacuum or God forbid, bath-time, or even those frightful noisy fireworks. No, none of that here, tonight. It’s Russell’s bash, after all. The aura of the party precariously hung between high spirits and Russell’s tendency for introversion.

This circle, these connections, these affinities, and those not so much all accumulate to one big convergence in Spencerville at Russell’s backyard tonight. There’s a tale weaving here, a saga of dog-hood. And yep, what a pet’s life we’ve got here! All waiting for their parents, but living the dream in the meantime.

“Hey Papa, Bubbub here! BIG party at Russ’ today! Every woof in town’s on their way. Shepherd’s Skyline? Blue frizbee’s chillin’ there! Ah, Russ loves that chap. By the way, Muggsy’s claimed Russ’ bed, too comfy to resist, right? And oh, there’s a bunch of us, all raring: Fenway, spunky Spencer, sassy Lil Dot, and that pizza maniac Wrigley. Millie? Still obsessing over leaves. And yeah, the air’s heavy with cheesesteaks, no bananas (yuck)! It’s a pure doggo delight! Russ prefers the evening sun, just FYI. But gotta watch out for water, vacuum cleaners, and those awful fireworks – absolute spoilers! For now, we’re just ridin’ the vibe between party madness and Russ’s low-key charm. So yeah Dad, it’s a pawsome saga of dog-hood today. Miss you, see ya soon. Woof ya!”
– Hamburger Jones Jr.

Listen to the story here.

Share This Story: