written by Jim Laird
We simply called him Spot. I
received him as a gift either for my second birthday or for Christmas 1952.
We think papa and nanny Laird
probably got him at the Hudson Bay store in Armstrong. That’s where my father,
Les and his 5 brothers were born and raised.
Or, perhaps, Spot was acquired along
the line in Sioux Lookout or Winnipeg or even from Larry Sward, himself?
In any case, Spot has been a
faithful companion ever since – ready to roll with that gleam in his eye at a
moment’s notice.
I think Spot was supposed to be a
house pet. He certainly enjoyed coasting around the linoleum floors with me.
But, the great outdoors beckoned and Spot was a willing companion during my
early years in Norman Township near Capreol. Spot stoically endured many a
rough roll over the gravel roads with me.
Those were his easy times before my
younger more impatient sister inherited him for a while. I had to watch in
horror as Brenda hurried Spot along bouncing and sometimes dragging him over
those same bumpy roads.
However, he stood up to it all
without ever needing a new coat of varnish or even a replacement joint! He is a
lasting marvel and a credit to Larry’s fine craftsmanship.
In semi-retirement Spot
enjoyed many quiet years of apartment living and occasional visits with young
cousins from our clan.
Spot now enjoys a quiet place
of honour in our house in Brampton. Hopefully, when the grand nieces and
nephews show up he will be called into service once more.
Whatever, he will always be a beloved reminder of a very happy childhood!
