squirrels, squirrels everywhere

their fat cheeks filled with acorns and buckeyes and their eyes bulging when they get one look at the big black beast coming toward them at full speed. She's a hunter, my Annabelle. She couldn't care less about chasing toys at the park--frisbees and balls are for puppies, she says--but take her to the park in mid-September when the squirrels are getting busy with their harvest, and she's happy as can be. All you have to say to her is, "Belly get the squirrel," and she's off.

The best thing about a dog: no matter what else is going on and what else sucks or is absolutely wonderful, she's always the same. Always eager, happy, energetic, and affectionate. And trusting. So very very trusting. I know I still have a lot to learn from this girl.

Fall: it's our favorite season. I've got all the windows open, I'm wearing jeans comfortably, and apple pie can't be all that far off. The smell of fall is in the air. Breathe it in.