Nina and Buddy’s tennis ball. A little worse for wear, but ready at a moment’s notice.

“Love my ball!  Taking it back to mom to throw for me again. Oh . . . wait! What is that?”

“What’s that noise? Is it . . . HIM?”

“Wait, I need to focus. Let me spit this out.”

“Okay. Now I can really pay attention. YES! It is his car! And he’s going to be coming through the gate any second now! Must. Be. Ready.”