Remembering Molly

To the Editor:

Fourteen years ago a little black ball of fur walked into our store in Westport. Along with her came David’s daughter Nicky and grandson Michael. Nicky was making us a present of this cute little black ball, which we had already named Molly. Pippin’s Miss Molly was her proper name, and it was love at first sight. Thanks Nicky!

At only eight weeks old Molly started her first job. She was to be the official greeter at Saugatuck Tackle Shop. Being she would be dealing with the public, she was going to have to learn her manners. So at the tender age of three months, off to school we went. She was a whiz! Molly learned all her lessons in just six weeks and graduated with honors. Thanks to Jodi at “The Bark Stops Here.”

Molly would sit in the doorway of our shop and never, never venture out into the street, even with the wonderful smells drifting past her from Mario’s restaurant. I think we had more customers come in to see Molly than for a dozen worms. She loved everybody and made them feel as if they were her special friend.

One man we remember had lost his own Lab a few years earlier and had not so much as looked at another dog, he was so heartbroken. That is, until he saw Molly and she gave him her special look and a wag of her tail. He and his wife came into the store and asked if they could pet her. They came every week after that and always had a toy or treat for her.

I couldn’t wait to take her for her first swim in the Sound. I waited to see her jump in and retrieve a stick… Well, no stick, ball or toy would coax Miss Molly into getting wet. Only after I got in did she agree to take the plunge. Next to dinner, swimming quickly became her favorite thing to do.

Her next venture was spent with me at The Magic Machine of Newtown, a video store. This lasted for the next ten years of her life. The first thing people would ask for was not the hottest movie, but “Where is Molly?” She was doing her job better than ever – making people happy.

Again, her official greeting place was the front door on the first step of the shop, and never did she budge. As she grew older she came and joined me in back of the counter, spending more time on her blanket. However, as soon as she heard the door open, out she would go to do her job. And then sit patiently for a pat or a goodie brought in especially for her. Molly had very bad food allergies and her diet consisted mostly of fruits and veggies. Kids and grown-ups alike thought it great fun to see her eat a banana or an orange.

When I retired, so did Molly. She was nearing 13 and I think she was tired of working, although I know she loved going with me every day. Thanks Pam and Ed for allowing me to bring Molly with me!

One week ago, David and I made the most difficult journey of our lives. We could no longer bear the sadness in her eyes. They were pleading for us to send her on her way and be at rest. It was very hard, but in our hearts we know we did the right thing. Molly gave us 14 years of happiness and we know we did the same for her. Thanks Molly!

We now have a two-year-old golden who keeps us very busy. When we return from vacation soon, we will begin looking for another dog to love. I will no doubt be seeing you soon, Jodi.

Bless you Molly. We miss you and love you.

Mary Ellen and David Harris

Church Hill Road, Newtown                                September 7, 2001