“Hey Mom & Dad! Beach stroll was great! Lots of wags, sniffs, and paints. Furry Friends Gallery was awesome, your old glove smells sweet as ever. Snacked on finery from Bone Appetit and Paws-A-Latte! Lovingly laze around my cardboard kingdom missing y’all in silence. Give my love to Russell, Spencer, Albert, and LiL Dot. No tail-chasing in the sea though, Bruce the Bully doesn’t do water. Can’t wait to see you.”

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Picture it – Brindle Brown Boxer beach on an easy Sunday afternoon. Here I am, Mr. Bruce, strolling down the sandy expanse, my white frame a stark contrast against the hues of the beach. The saltwater breeze ruffles my ears, my freckles getting a sun-kiss and my three Panthera-like spots under my lip standing out. Against the backdrop of a perfect cyan sky, my stumpy tail gives the day its rhythm.

Ah look, there’s Ollie Bob. We both share a disdain for water, an aversion to baths and swimming, and an obsession for premium treats. But, what separates us? I have a penchant for luxury and an admittingly picky palate. So, while he’s frolicking freely in the waves, I watch from the safety of the beach, not one to dampen my curls or my spirits with a spot of sea spray.

Meanwhile, the sea breeze carries the aroma of Bone Appetit and Paws-A-Latte. And right on cue, my precious belly echoes a little growl. There’s no finer collection of epicurean delights in the whole town. I know I can always get my favorite Steak Pup-Perignon at Bone Appetit or a Canine-ccino at Paws-a-Latte.

Heading down to the Furry Friends Art Gallery, I enjoy the recognition. My life’s drama playing out in vibrant acrylics, pastels, and brushed steel. Oh wait, what’s that? It’s my dad’s old welding glove! The worn-out red suede, the bulky fabric, the faint smell of old machine oil mixed with his distinct human scent.

Back home, my cardboard palace awaits me, an orange grubber ball lying idle, missing the frolics, so does monkey bear and the tennis balls. They all crave the soft press of my teeth, the locks of my white coat, while the hosepipe yearns for a spirited game of water chase that I only indulge in sparingly. I won’t deny I’ve got an independent streak. A pause of solitude, a moment of me-time does me good.

Somewhere beyond the Lower Silver Siberian Summit, I can hear the faint rumblings of life and I sigh. It’s the only blemish on a perfect day away from obnoxious noises that jar my ears.

Not to forget, my loyal posse of canine crusaders; Russell, Spencer, Albert, and my ladylove LiL Dot add their unique flavor to my adventures in Spencerville. Each, like an ingredient vital to the harmony of a nutritious canine salad, save for the vegetables because face it, who likes vegetables?

Such is my life in Spencerville, wrapped up in goofy grins, winded chases, and a little heartache whenever I miss my human parents. I do miss them yet I know we will be together again; but for now, these golden moments of adventure, joy, and camaraderie are what make my tale in this almost perfect town so endearing.