Mood: crushed out
Topic: "Mick's Day"(8)
Fifteen years ago, on this very day, Mother's Day, Mick, the Wonder Dog, was among a legion of puppies introduced onto this small, blue planet. Several weeks later only two of the Australian Shepherd-Border Collie mix remained under the direct supervision of their mother. His sibling was nearly all white, with black splotches, while Mick, the Wonder Dog, was just the opposite. It is likely that the dwindling number of playmates was weighing heavily on his mind. Possible it is that he was concerned about ever being adopted into a world of his own making. Perhaps that is why he took note of Frodo's visit to the garage that had always been his home, and why he scampered to the Hobbit and promptly sat down on his foot, as if he were saying "Where the Hell have you been and why did it take so long, but no matter, let's go for a ride in your motorcar."
So it began.
Today, again on Mother's Day, Mick, the Wonder Dog, begins every day with the same fervor and sense of purpose that guided him toward that worn-out sneaker upon the foot of a Hobbit a near lifetime ago. Their adventures together have been chronicled far and wide, and near strangers frequently ask of him whenever the Hobbit is found in transit, alone. Frodo explains that a second stage cancer, the pulling of eleven teeth, and the recent demise of his lifelong playmate, Princess Fiona, have weakened the endurance of his noble companion. Usually, Frodo adds that it is now time for the post-breakfast nap, the pre-luncheon nap, the pre-dinner nap, or the post-dinner nap. Truth it is that Frodo speaks, for his companion is unable to tarry long on paths well-travelled in days gone by. Strength is preserved to serve the toothless smile, and the familiar nose-to-the-crotch of a Hobbit, his favorite game.
Mick, the Wonder Dog, has developed a fondness for a handfull of dry Cheerios in the early morning. Samwise mixes an egg into his dinner every afternoon. Properly tuned with more recommended culinary input, the Wonder Dog has good appetite, evacuates healthily, and occasionally leaps a few steps toward the Hobbit as if to say let's go for another ride in that motorcar.
Frodo relishes these days and small matters of routine. It is when it is rainy, and perhaps a bit cool, however, when the Hobbit is struck by moments of melancholy. Such days are preferred by the Wonder Dog, since hot weather is something endured by one with a heavy coat.
Doctor Porsches, the wealthy veterinarian, counseled Frodo that Mick, the Wonder Dog, for the first time in his life, has become the Alpha. He has recommended that Frodo add to the menagerie of the Shire only when he is sure that such an addition would not add to the emotional baggage carried by one whose psychological status is partially responsible for his strong heart, and his continuing struggle for normalcy. Frodo agrees. So Frodo goes on walks alone most days, but he doesn't stop talking to his old friend.
Rainy days are just days for thinking about such things.