The Closing Balls of Summer

When I saw the Chrysanthemums at the grocery store I was a little sad. They are a sign that our sweet Midwest summer is coming to an end. My friends who still go to school are now back in school. I miss going to school - the new outfit for the first day; the rubber smell of the new tennis shoes; the new book bag.

With the closing of summer comes the closing of the city pools. When the city pool in town closes, on its last open weekend, it gives itself up to the dogs - literally. For a small fee and proof of vaccinations, the dogs run and swim with complete freedom.

It is one of my most favorite days. The pool is full of tennis balls, scores and scores of them. Our Molly and Vegas chased the balls, swam in the deep end and never stopped smiling. I threw a tennis ball for Vegas and the black labrador went after it. No worries - Vegas gets the one belonging to the cream colored Golden Retriever puppy. All the puppies are friends.

The dogs this evening are curled up in their spots. Molly's soft ears are getting a rub down as her tired head leans in to the soft, yellow blanket. She lets out that dog groan that signifies complete satisfaction.

Vegas is curled up behind the chair, on the floor, in one of her caves. I can hear her legs kicking the wall as she dreams of the hundreds of yellow tennis balls.

A warm, cozy blanket and dreams coming true - what a great day. I hope your tomorrow is as good as our today.