The Visit

02/02/10 11:26 Filed in: Essay
I walk The Place as dusk settles into the trees, light slips over the lake, shadows form around the wisteria vines. I’ve come to see Sunnybank prior to tomorrow’s crowd of people and dogs. Perry, my Collie companion for thirteen years, and the puppies are with me. In youthful glee the youngsters run exuberantly, stretch legs and chase each other. Oblivious to who has come before, they race across the lawn in pure puppy now-ness.

My own steps slow with his, as Perry explores the grounds like a familiar guest. Do all Collies feel this comfortable here? Well-worn paths draw us to stones covering dusty bones of long dead heroes of fur and teeth, courage and loyalty. The wind stirs treetops and whispers to us. I turn towards the grassy hilltop and imagine a house embraced by porches, smothered in vines. If Terhune were on that hillside, in shade of aging oaks and faded imprint of a home, would he recall his own memories of great hearts, wise eyes, and unspoken love?

As daylight fades, I remember stories of Lad, most loved. I rest my hand gently on the aging head beside me and know the same spirit lies within skin, bone, and heart of my own dog.

Where summerhouse once caught the lakeside breeze, we pause. One puppy, impatient with our progress, runs upward towards the clapboard shelter of bygone days, where toes twitched in sleep and minds dreamt of future exploits. Perhaps he thinks someone is there to greet him, but finding no one, hurries back to me.


(Winner of the Essence of Sunnybank ColliesOnLine essay contest September 2002)