Hey Mom,
Met everyone in Spencerville. I’m the local talk of the town – ham wrap-lover, Rita’s bff, beach girl, dog model, and couch queen. Miss you xoxo.
-GingerStrong

Listen to the story here

As I saunter down the Siberian Summit, I can almost hear the rustling of the leaves under Ginger’s paw; a fierce black silhouette against the sun, with that unpredictable streak of white racing across her chest. She’d run over for a heartwarming lick, a reminder of her infectious love that, much like her, had a way of just showing up.

An ideal day in Spencerville begins with a visit to the Pup ‘n’ Go Taco Joint, Ginger’s favorite. “Two deli ham wraps, please,” I’d tell Chip, the sleight-of-hand master chef whom Ginger had grown overly fond of. He knew her well enough to leave out the veggies, much to her delight.

Our next stop would be Happy Hounds Dog Walking. Rita, Ginger’s best friend, owned it. She was a brown brindle boxer, just as old, and just as lively. They would stroll around the town, the wind in their fur, playful barks echoing against the colorfully painted shops. Ginger had this uncanny sense of companionship with Rita. She’d give soft nuzzles, ensuring that she was okay, and cared for.

Afterward, we’d journey down to Brindle Brown Boxer Beach. Ginger loved the footprints she left in the sand dunes, her free spirit brimming the shoreline. She felt good in her skin, soaking up the sun. The twinkle in her eyes would tell tales of how much she loved the afternoon sun on her back.

The Fetching Deli was our spot once the sun had said its goodbyes, the last stop before we’d head home. Here, I’d tell her stories from my childhood, the kind that made her pierce her eyes into mine, in a silent understanding of sorts.

Afterward, I remember promising Ginger a photoshoot, with Best in Show Photography. She had stolen many hearts with her charisma, elegantly poised for every snapshot. Those sittings were memorable – the times when her jovial personality shone the brightest.

Then night would roll around, and Ginger would curl up on her couch, designed just for her by The Pampered Pooch Salon. I’d often tiptoe around, not to disturb her. She took her beauty sleep seriously.

Now as I walk the streets without her, witnessing her legacy lived through every shop, every corner, I can’t help but feel the mixed pang of loss and love in every inch of my heart. Her once bustling presence turned into a silent memory that whispers in the wind.

Let it be known, Ginger may have taken her final bow, but her spirit still runs wild, nuzzling every heart that dares to love in Spencerville. Rolling over in delight at the bark of a new dog or purr of a kitten, she was, and always will be, the most treasured soul in Spencerville.

The End.

Share This Story: