While much of the focus Saturday will be on the terrible events nine years ago in New York, Washington D.C., and Pennsylvania, for many of us there are other, more lighthearted reasons to remember that date. My pal, my buddy, my bestest poochie Russell was born on that day. Never had a dog of my own and didn't understand how grown people could talk to their animals like they would a human child. Now I know. :-) He has brought me more delight and amusement and caring than anyone should expect from a pet. My second dog, Willie was adopted so Russell could have a playmate while I was at work. Then Zuzu joined us to make it a trio. But Russell will always be my first baby and will always be a happy reminder of why that day in 2001 became so joyfully life-changing for me.
