Day 507

We took the Anoka Ghost Tour this evening. As anonymous members of the group, it was interesting to arrive at our own home and hear the stories that are part of our family lore. The guide was amazing and it was also enjoyable to hear tales from other homes on the tour.

When we gathered in front of our house, I listened for the tell-"tail" barking of our Goldens. Evidently, they were not aware of the group and continued their various entertainment for the evening...napping! As the guide shared our "Ghost stories," our pups were included in one or two.

One of my favorites, which was not shared this evening, starred our beloved Arthur. Nicknamed "Moose," he was extremely tall and weighed in well over 100 pounds! He was a gentle giant.

Having perhaps five or six walking tours stopping in front of the house each evening, we are accustomed to camera flashes, voices and groups moving by. One night, I was not being cautious and I let Arthur out the back door towards the side yard. Down the steps he 'gallumped,' headed across the driveway with his eye on the grass beyond. Suddenly, something caught his attention...about thirty 'somethings' to be exact! It was one of the Ghost Tours heading towards our driveway.

Now, our big guy wouldn't hurt a fly, but the tour participants didn't know that little fact. Pivoting on a dime, Arthur raced towards the group...barking like a crazed wolf! The people were already looking over their shoulders for any mischievous ghosts, and reacted quickly with a "survival of the fittest" mentality! Grown men screamed, women grabbed their children and mass chaos ensued. As the crowd frantically dispersed into the street, I feebly called after them, "Don't be afraid! He is a Therapy Dog!"

It seems that mass panic and fear win over reason any day. Finally, when their hearts began to beat once again, they slowly regrouped and welcomed our Killer Dog into their midst. He actually comforted people who were terrified, moments before, by the same Beast!

Time to warm up and head for bed with my Goldens at my heels. Ghosts, Goldens or bumps in the night are not getting between me and sleep! However, like the Lion in The Wizard of Oz, "I do believe! I do believe!!!!!"