Halloweens With Suzy

This will be the first Halloween in 14 years without Suzy.  When she was a pup, she'd charge the door whenever trick-or-treaters came a'calling.  Full of anticipation, curiosity and joy, Suzy was totally involved in the festivities, the life-of-the-party, the bell-of-the-ball.

As years went by, she grew more self-controlled (for a Sheltie, that is) and would be right by my side as I handed out Butterfingers and Snickers Bars.  Often a few kids, or their parents, would oogle and ahh over Suzy's beauty and charm.  Sometimes we'd get requests to pet or let her come out on the porch. She always obliged, with wagging tail and big Suzy-smile!  The kids were as thrilled as I.

In recent years, Suzy lay in the living room and watched the festivities from afar.  Now a senior citizen, she was content to preside but not participate.  To observe rather than officiate.  Yet, if kids or parents ever got a glimpse of her through the front door, they'd still request a pet or a pat, still oogle and ahh, still be entranced by her presence and beauty.  No matter the occasion, it was fun with Suzy around.

This year I'm going to dinner and a play.  The house will be dark.