...and thanks for all the fish

Over recent years, I had always felt that I would do my part in preserving the proper order of the animal kingdom. I've been a vegetarian for over 7 years. I usually elect not to squash the life out of a spider -- even if in the house. I won't wear fur. Although I'm guessing that last one has more to do with the awful imagery accompanying that thought -- and the emotional scarring it would inflict on anyone forced to absorb the visual of me draped in an animal hide. But we adopt from shelters, support the Humane Society, and do our best to avoid squirrels on the roadway.

But I was disheartened to realize that I had been ignoring a large problem here in the midwest... the near extinction of our fine feathered friends: the aquatic birds of the family Spheniscidae -- the PENGUIN. In all of the years growing up in the western suburbs of Chicago, I can't recall ever running into one of these adorable, waddling creatures. Had I only known the severity of the problem, I would have started my crusade years ago.

I thank the wise, compassionate souls that took the time to create this public service announcement on the bridge along the Fox River. Had I not been running along one of my favorite river paths, I might not have had the great fortune of reading this cry for help.

Waddle on, my feathered friend...

Your Lion Eyes

Okay. One collective large groan for the title of this entry. G-R-O-A-N. That's better. But it is the aftermath of Halloween and I'm sure it's just the last traces of the evening's sugar racing through my system. So now on with the summary.

Before Su, I didn't take much joy from this particular "holiday." Sure, it was fun as a kid. And, sure, we adults do like to "ooh" once in a while at a cute costume or clever theme. But mostly, it just meant stocking up on our favorite candy, distributing to the masses, and hoping enough was left for us and late-night snacking. With Su, all of that has changed. Her joy over costumes and snacks has transferred to us.

Su had a very fun day. Starting with her friend Grace's birthday party, it was non-stop action. The morning party led into lunch and was quickly followed by a tumbling class later in the afternoon. A quick recharge (naptime) and then dad was home early from work to take Su out for some "roaring" good fun.

It was a very cool night and a strong wind from the northwest. But Su had the perfect costume to combat the chill. The neighborhood homes were overflowing with goodies and Halloween themes. And Su's candy bag was half-filled by the first 8 or so homes. After almost an hour of walking, Su was dragging her tail behind her saying, "let's go home now."

But the energy returned as she itemized her collection of treats...