“Hey Nonna, it’s your lovable ‘lil Russ. Just another day in Spencerville, you know – chasing sunbeams, dodging vacuum monsters and garnering wishes for Philly Berries. Millie’s still chiding me for moving at my own pace, but remember my theory: less rush, more sunbaths! Love, Fat Russell.”

Listen to the story here

“Now look here, my friends, I’ve a tale to regale and what better way to start than with our friend, Fat Russell…”

The sunlight bounced off the gleaming sign of Bow Wow Burgers, down through Maltese Meadow and Labradoodle Lake, to dance playfully on Russell’s shiny, inquisitive brown eyes. This doggie Eden known as Spencerville might be a fine place indeed, but my, it does get wearisome. A delightful dwell until it wasn’t.

“A romp, Russell, we need a romp!” suggested Spencer, our gifted pug, painted with enthusiasm. Fat Russell, tapped his paw thoughtfully, his eyes still fixed on the distance. Russell was never one for spontaneity and morning shenanigans.

“Fiddlesticks, Russell, at least this time don’t mope behind, looking like, you just swallowed a lemon!” Millie chided. You know how some folks are? Quick to bless the world with their advice, while ignoring it themselves? Our Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Millie, was just one such.

Yet, somehow, the charm that nestled in the oddball gang was undeniable. It was filled with unconditional desire, disarming innocence, and a silent pact to be there for one another; through the good days and days when the vacuum terrorizes us.

What’s that, you wonder? You’ve no notion of a Philly berry. Let me elucidate in unadorned parlance – you take a berry. On second thought, dunk that in some frothy cheese, cuddle it with a snug layer of Philly steak, all embraced in a bun that’s as warm and cushy as a child’s teddy bear. Now, that is the Philly berry.

So there we were, bouncing off Spencerville’s whimsical terrain, under the rosy blush of the setting sun. Ah, freedom! With the wind against our droopy faces, racing past Kibble Cuisine and Bow Wow Burgers (an establishment of great magnitude, if food could be judged), whilst avoiding The Howling Husky Hardware Store. Dear God, nothing good ever came of that place for canines!

Across the Spencerville expanse, there was an infectious exuberance that stemmed from the anticipation of our reunion and the doggish delights we came across in this place beyond the tunnel. I promise to regale you with more tales of our adventures. But for now, just remember that we live in joy, waiting for you, my dear friends, in the magical realm of Spencerville.

The End.