Smoother Than a Fresh Jar of Skippy
“See you soon,” mom said as she gave dad a quick kiss goodbye. Ooh, I’m sitting right here. Respect the boundaries. My parentals love each other. I have a great place to live and brother I can tolerate (from time to time). Do I need to see the constant displays of affection? Hmm, considering what dad has accomplished and the reason for today’s trip – I can let it go – for now.
The ground was wet and I could hear the water moving through the treads of the tires as she backed out of our driveway. I could see Dad putting a folding table and chairs in the back of his car. Not an easy feat for a two-seater. He waved to us as mom drove down the street. Today was the big day. Mom and I were headed to our favorite store, okay mine, for a book signing. Okay, a pet store. Pet Place Market. Oh, and the book is about yours truly. I’ve been trying to let the parentals in on a not so secret since – well my entire existence – I’m pretty awesome. It seems like Dad has just caught up to this notion and he wrote a book it. He spent the last year following me around the house. He said he was studying my movements and watched my interactions with my mom and brother. This might seem weird to you, the reader, but for me it was great. I like attention and I may have hammed it up a little for dad. I will leave the ham reference alone for this entry.
“I’m very proud of you and your dad,” mom said to me. As she turned out of the neighborhood and we picked up speed she reached across the center console to give me a quick pet on the head. No time for a full on tummy rub but a head scratch works in a pinch. “I think your dad is a little nervous today. It will be your job Sydney to keep him calm.” Not to worry as I sit upright in my harnessed seat. I’ve got dad’s back. What’s to be nervous about? New friends to meet – love to make new friends. I’m a firm believer that you can never have too many friends. Adoring fans to ask for a “paw-tograph” – where do I sign – I mean stamp? I don’t know about dad but I’m ready for my close up. If dad was nervous I was hyped. Together we balance each other out. When he fills out the “best cockapoo of the year” ballot I better win. The click, click of the turn signal brought me out of my momentary daydream.
“Here we are,” said mom as she parked the car. After removing my harness she walked around the front of the vehicle and let me out. I guess the red carpet was at the cleaners as my paws were met with the cold and wet cement street of North Bend, WA. Okay, this wasn’t the Oscars but I was going to enjoy my first book event. I walked side by side with mom as she held my leash on the way to the store. Just before we entered I looked up and saw my likeness on the front window. It was and advertisement for this afternoon’s event. What a good looking dog. Can’t wait for the movie poster.
The afternoon went off without a hitch. Dad arrived soon after and he setup our spot in the store. One of mom’s besties, Tess, was in the house. She helped dad with books and acted as the cashier for the day. No visit from Tess is complete without the inclusion of her daughters. My sisters, that’s how we role, offered support and all the attention this cockapoo can handle.
We met many new friends. All the younger readers said hi to my dad and he signed books for all. However, I was the real star. Shocker! The kiddos were so nice. They asked my mom if they could pet me. “Of course, she said. They were very well behaved and pet my head and shoulders. Some were a little shy at first so I flipped right over for tummy rubs and the love and attention resumed. Kids are so smart. The day continued with family and close friends who stopped by to show their support. I got so many tummy rubs during the signing that I lost track of the total count.
I kept an eye on dad and he seemed to be handling things just fine. He smiled and was happy to sign books for all the kids and parents. When we had a moment of downtime I ran over to him and put my front paws up on his legs. “Hey Syd,” he said to me. “Thanks for having my back today.” I gave dad a big lick across his face which made him laugh. Always.
Our time at the pet store seemed short and no sooner had the event started when it was time to break down the table and pack up the car. “By Sydney,” one of the employees at the store said to me as we headed out. “It was great to see you today.” What a great feeling. My people need me, and I them.
Okay dad, when’s the next one?
