Two clear signs of early spring in my neighborhood are long lines at the Big Dipper, our local ice cream stand, and weather warm enough for me to consider a visit with the girls.
A recent Saturday with sunny, mid-50s weather was just the opportunity for Orly’s first Big Dipper outing — and Cali’s first visit since her early December birthday.
After a very long walk, the four of us — I had a friend lined up, as extra hands would definitely be needed — headed down the street.
The line was long. Friend settled in at a table with both dogs, and I stood in line. Cali, as is her style, lost patience after a few minutes and kept straining toward the order window. Orly people- and dog-watched and waited, not sure what to expect but quite sure she would love it.
Our turn arrived. I returned to the table bearing small scoops of huckleberry ice cream for the humans and dog cones (always vanilla) for the girls.
Orly could not believe her luck!
Cali downed her cone in seconds, also typical for her. Orly licked, bit, licked, bit — unsure of how to process this wonderful new treat. Cali stood by impatiently, not understanding how it could take a dog so long to eat a bit of ice cream.
It was the perfect end to a perfect day.
The Thinking Dog 