She was about 20 years old when Stan hired her as a "Girl Friday" in the late 1970s. Laurie Hartmann is still with the newspaper company, so when we get together for dinner now and then there's always plenty to talk about. Including dogs. Laurie kept our previous poodle, Hoover, a number of times while we were vacationing, spoiling the lucky duck in her Prior Lake home -- with the loving assistance of her nearby parents who provided day care. (Her late father would warm the car before picking up the pampered pet for the day shift.) She's bonding with Birdie now and says she's ready to take her on too. Not sure she knows what she's in for, (Birdie's still a bit mischievous) but she's always fielded everything thrown at her so far. She continues to be a dear friend and we enjoy her company.
