When we were kids we had a beagle named Stormy. He was handsome, perfectly marked and a classic example of all the traits of a beagle:  smart, stubborn, energetic and easily distracted by every scent, sound, or movement. He needed lots of exercise. He had a big yard to explore but figured out 99 ways to get out of that yard. Most memories of Stormy were about chasing him when he got loose. He did not respond to the COME command! The one thing we always enjoy talking about was taking him on the paper route. In good weather we rode bikes and one of us had Stormy on a leash – sometimes you didnt have to peddle! There were lots of scraped knees because Stormy was strong and could easily unbalance the rider. It was almost like a roller coaster ride.

One winter we had a freezing rain that quickly created icicles everywhere, coated the trees and turned streets into sheets of ice. (No school!) Unfortunately the newspapers had been delivered before the ice storm hit. As soon as it was over, we had to deliver papers. After falling down continually – before we even got to the bottom of the driveway – one of us had the brilliant idea to wear our ice skates to deliver the papers! The ice was so thick on the streets that it was easy to skate! Mom yelled out – “don’t forget to take Stormy!” Was she kidding?  No. Younger brother took the leash and was quickly pulled down the street. Stormy’s nails gave him traction and he could pull us easily! Soon we were yelling at each other: “it’s my turn to hold on to Stormy’s leash.” He was full of energy and invigorated by the cold and excitement of the fresh scents. He pulled us all over the neighborhood that beautiful crystal-coated day! It was one we have  never forgotten – pets give us lasting and visual    memories! Unfortunately the pictures are only in our  heads.