Freeport, Maine – In an increasingly indignant America, even the humble leaf is the subject of controversy, with many Americans angry about the hassle of raking and bagging them every fall.
But there is at least one place in America where pure autumn joy can still be found. It appears annually in Jody Hartman’s front yard in Freeport, Maine, after he piles up his leaves and gives his dog Stella the green light to run through them.
“She likes the feel, I think, the sound, maybe, it’s just her little comfort zone,” Hartman said.
Stella started this about nine years ago, and a few years after that the Hartman family’s other dog, Mabel, also developed a fever.
Hartman’s videos are now extremely popular on social media, which is why he does everything he can to ensure his sheet pile lasts as long as possible.
“I was in the yard with a hair dryer trying to dry them out,” Hartman said. “I have to cover them with my new roof, just leaf maintenance.”
Hartman said his puppies are the priority, as he has even kept children out of the pile. He explained why the perfect leaves and the excitement of his dogs are so valuable.
“I think in a world where there’s so much noise, especially on social media, it doesn’t get much simpler or healthier than a dog just running and jumping through the leaves,” he said. “There’s something going on.”
That little periscope of hope emerging from the chaos reminds us that there is still joy – if you just jump.
Steve Hartman
