Millie! the Last Chapters

Our daily routine, along with those of families across the globe has changed one-

hundred-fold since Covid. We find ourselves wishing for the life that was. The original 'Millie' book chronicled her life with Ro and myself between 2004 and 2020. Her story, first told in the book Millie! A Love Story, began one evening when Roseanne took a subway trip to the gym. That night turned out to be the beginning of sixteen years filled with unimaginable happiness and joy. Coming out of the subway, she ended up on the wrong side of Lexington Avenue. Looking across the avenue at the bumper-to-bumper cars and trucks and the pelting rain she decided it was too dangerous to cross. She began a brisk walk looking for cover and passed the window of a pet store. Mesmerized by the puppies curiously gathered to see this stranger, she stepped into the entrance and peered in closely, poking the window. Surprisingly, one of the pups appeared to return her gaze. We do not have to be reminded that life is not fair. MILLIE! THE LAST CHAPTERS is the complete story of Millie, her joys, and the unconditional love and happiness she brought to everyone fortunate enough to meet her. Sadly, it's also a reminder that all good things must eventually come to an end. Throughout the construction of the manuscript, Millie was a trooper, shrugging off the effects of two surgeries, several bacterial infections, and a tortuous fight with blindness. She kept her composure, throughout, never quitting, always proving to us the true lady she was. Millie's story is both joyful and heart-breaking at times, but isn't life the same? There are literally hundreds of books that explain the do's and don'ts of dog ownership. This book is a chronicle of Millie's more than fifteen years with us. It relates firsthand how she brought so much love to her mom and dad's life. Each chapter is a window into Millie's world. I hope they offer a clear vision into how it's possible to love an animal as much as a human, if not more. If reading this book does that for you, then I consider it a grand success. Follow Millie as she joins our family and grows up with us, spreading joy and love to everyone lucky enough to meet her. If you don't own a dog, or have not considered it before, be forewarned--Millie's story may give you good reason to change your mind. Imagine yourself in my shoes, being fortunate to live every day with a loving, caring, and devoted dog. ---Louis D. Lavalle