The Three of Us

It was a Saturday morning and that meant Tanya, our mom, was taking Sambuca and I for a walk. She always checked the weather forecast before leaving, and the tides of the ocean as well. If it were low tide, we would go for a beach walk. High tide and we stayed local and would usually go to Shubie Park.

On this day we were going to a new spot, Conrad’s Beach.

You are going to love it, Sambuca told me.

I nodded my head. If it involves my frisbee, I am good.

“We’re here!” Tanya said, as she parked the car in the small parking lot.

Sambuca and I watched patiently as our mom got ready; ensuring she had her phone to take pictures, headphones placed on her head, and car keys.

Let’s go already! I exclaimed.

Let us out! Sambuca chimed in.

The car door opened, and Tanya unclipped both of our leashes. We quickly jumped out.

 I loved this new place already! So many new smells.

We reached the boardwalk, and I took off. See ya, folks!

I came to a full stop. There were birds everywhere in the fields below, but I could not get to them because we were up high on the walkway platform.

I could hear instructions coming from Tanya. “Appy, wait for us!”

I turned around and Sambuca started running toward me. We took off together and finally reach the beach.

WOW! It is beautiful here! There is sand to the right. There is sand to the left. Which way, momma?

Tanya picked up a rock and used it to draw a big X in the sand. She motioned to us to go left.

What is that for? I ask Sambuca.

We got lost once and could not find the entrance to the boardwalk. It was a little scary for us since Tanya is directionally challenged.

I nod my head. Good to know. I barked my acknowledgement at Tanya.

Further down the beach she threw my frisbee. It landed flat on the sand. I am Super Pup and have so many talents, including flipping the disc so I can carry it in my mouth. The first time I did that Sambuca was completely impressed. And trust me, she is not easy to impress. Sambuca was nine years old when Tanya got me, and a very experienced miniature schnauzer.

We had an exceptionally long walk at Conrad’s Beach and all three of us were tired from the fresh air and exercise. Enough for one day.

When we returned home Tanya took a shower, and we settled in with a snack of chips and cheese. She always shares with us. She is an amazing mom.  I wonder if all dogs get to eat chips and cheese.

Sambuca was in her usual spot on the leather sectional. I moved over to lie on our dog pillow. My big sis stretched out and I did the same. I waited. I hoped that this was going to be the day. I waited some more until I heard her heavy breathing.

I leaned in slowly. I touched her and there was no reaction. Normally Sambuca would give a little growl, and Tanya would tell me to respect her space. Not this time.

Yes. Success!

She loves me. My big sister really loves me.

Tanya was sitting on the other side of the couch and looked over. “Oh my God.” She whispered.

I opened one eye. I know right!?

She slowly took out her phone and snapped a picture.  Her heart was full, I could tell.  I closed both eyes. Yawn. Me pooped from our walk at Conrad’s beach.  I started to doze off.

And that was the day Sambuca allowed me to lie next to her. It was the best day.