Sassy Oh So Fun Day!

    I began what came to be called "Sassy Oh So Fun Day" over a year ago. It is a day when I pick up one or both of my "older poodles" after school for spoiling and treats. I remember the very first time and the anticipation was like the county fair, coming to town. I knew, it had to be grand.
    It is September and the new school year is only six weeks in. What can I do? I know--we will go to Walmart and get our Halloween costumes. You know, the ones imported from China that smell flamable and look as though they have been stitched with dental floss.
     I give them the big plan when they land in my car--tired, smelly and hungry. They can't wait! We stop, pick up a snack and race over to this once Made in America store, which I now call Where is America store. I begin to look for the colorful aisle and can't find it. Where is it? We are running around looking- as I cling to their sweaty hands. What the heck; the space has been cleared out, the signs are up but their are no hangers: no witches, skeletons, princesses, or vampires. I find the manager and ask him where is Halloween? "Lady, those don't go out until the end of the month". "What?", I say. "You put Christmas out in July". He walks away and I am left with two poodles crying.
       No problem-the toy section is calling their names. The problem with that is you have no where to go, when the first Sassy Oh So Fun Day is toy purchases.
      But... it has survived and the rules have been set. Do not ever ask me for a toy and I may surprise you one day and give you one. If you ask; it will not come.Sometimes we have art day, in my studio.  Other times, manicures at Art Nails, yogurt parfaits at the local Fusions and my personal favorite, the dollar store$$.
     It really does not matter because I know they will remember it..the special moments. They are like sponges and time is fleeting so I want to fill them with memories that will be passed down to their "teacup poodles" one day.
       Grandparents...find the time to do this!. It replaces bookclubs, luncheons, bridge and gyms. If your children are living out of town, no problem. Use the webcam and let them see you, hear you and your life stories.
      I am fortunate to have my poodles here but if they were not, I would try to find a way to infuse myself into their memory. After all, I believe children are our greatest legacy.