R.I.P. Gypsy

I just found out today that my friend and fellow canine, Gypsy passed away this week. I remember how she loved to chase sticks that were thrown for her. And how she made sure the neighborhood was safe by barking warnings every time a car or person passed by. We will miss you, Gypsy. We will meet again across the Rainbow Bridge.

Annual Visit to the Vet's

Well, I didn't particularly like the 23rd very much. I had to go to the vet's office for my annual shots. I do behave myself but I don't like getting shots. You'll be happy to know he said I was in great health. He said I was too skinny when my family first adopted me but that I have gotten up to my proper weight. I do have a good family that takes good care of me. I'm lucky to have them. Or are they lucky to have me? Hmmm. I'll have to think that one over.

At least we got to go to the park before going to the vet's. It was fun sniffing around for a while. After the vet's, we went to a city office to get my license renewed. I got to meet a lady that used to live in our neighborhood before I was adopted. She loved me. She said I looked a lot like my predecessor, Hobbes. I'll take that as a compliment as I've heard that Hobbes was beautiful. I also got to meet a few firemen while we were getting my license. They all petted me and said I was beautiful (with some prompting from grandma).

The 24th-26th were pretty hot days so we didn't do too much. We went for our walks early before it got too hot. I don't like the heat much. As you know, I wear a fur coat. I know wearing fur is politically incorrect but I really have no choice! You wouldn't want to see a naked dog running around, would you? Just think of those Mexican Hairless dogs and you will know how bad that can be!

Warning! Ugly picture below.

Mexican hairless. Need I say more?

Birthday Celebration Photos

Sorry I didn't put my birthday pictures up yesterday. I was recuperating from my party. I'd like to say thank you to all my friends. When I went for a walk the evening of my birthday, all of them were outside to say hi! Every last one of them!!! Wasn't that sweet of them? I have such good friends. Okay, on to the pictures.

Here's my birthday cupcake. It's a miniature cupcake.
It's adorable. And as we say in my family, it's Mia-sized!!

Here I am checking out all the presents my family gave me.
Can you believe I got so many presents?

Here are some homemade dog biscuits that grandma made for me. They are made with yummy pumpkin. I believe if you look back on my blog entries, you will find the recipe. Please make them for your dogs. They will love them! Can you tell that they are mostly in dog biscuit shapes? There are also some hearts and candy canes. Not sure where the candy canes come in but I don't really care... they all taste yummy!!

This is a non-stuffed toy. Remember I got a non-stuffed raccoon a few months ago? Well, now I have a non-stuffed fox. I love to toss these around (but mostly when my family isn't looking).

This is the box that my new ball came in. I was just checking to see if there was anything else in the box. You can see the ball behind the box. It's very colorful and bounces high.

Here are two pictures of my favorite present. My new blankey. In the first picture you can see me putting my own scent on it. In the second picture you can see how huge it is! It's so nice and soft and big. I love it! I will mention that I did get a new dog bed for my birthday but since I didn't seem too interested in it, grandma is going to return it. I really am happy with my old bed. Old! It's only a year old!!!

Happy Birthday To Me!!!

Well, if you haven't done your shopping, you're officially out of time! Shame on you! Lucky for you though I do accept late birthday presents.

Unfortunately mom had to work today but she did say she would leave work early so we could start my party early. And she's taking tomorrow off so we have a 4 day weekend together.

I can't wait for the party to begin and to see what my family is giving me. Yeah! Happy birthday to me, happy birthday to me...

Four Shopping Days!!!

Do you know why you only have four shopping days??? Because it's my birthday on September 2nd!!!! I'm going to be 3. I can count that on one paw! Anyway, just 4 shopping days to get a present for your favorite dog named Mia. Better get to the mall fast!

Butterflies or Flutterbys??

On the 17th we saw Nancy again. She said the last time she saw me she went home to give her own huskies a bath! It must have been right after I had my bath. I bet her huskies are beautiful. I'd love to meet them some day.

Also on that walk I saw what grandma called butterflies. I've never seen any before. They were dancing in the air. Very pretty. Butterfly ballet?

Have I already told you about my new evening habit? I like to go out on the front deck and watch the world go by. I can see almost all around the entire house from there. I can see the road so I know if any of my friends (doggie and human) are going for walks.

One evening I did get to see Luca and Lucy. They looked like they were having a nice time. Grandma has found that it's hard to get me back inside once I'm on the front deck. I just love it out there. Sometimes I even get to see those funny little quail and deer and squirrels. It's very interesting.

On Friday morning I went up to mom's room to wake her up. Grandma came with me. We three howled together. I love it when my family howls with me. Although I must say I don't think their voices are as good as mine. Maybe it just doesn't come naturally to humans. Anyway, mom and grandma call it our K-9 Harmony.

The Dog Days of Summer

Well, it's already the middle of August. Speaking of summer (just assume I was), why do humans say "the dog days of summer"?? Is it an insult or a compliment to dogs? Anyone??

So as I was saying, it's the middle of August. On the 15th I was anxious to get my day started. Grandma got up and let me outside for a minute but then she went back to bed!!! Lazy human!!! I kept making noises until papa took me for a walk by himself. At least one human in this household isn't lazy!

And that evening Bailey came over to ask if she could take me for a walk. We had a lovely time. She went back to school the next day so I probably won't be getting as many visits from her. It's too bad... I really love those extra walks and Bailey is so very nice.

Later that evening Amy came by to take me for a walk. She brought her brother and grandfather to see me. They said I was beautiful. But since I had already gone for a 2nd walk, grandma said they couldn't take me again. As if I couldn't make it around the block a third time! Just because you humans have no stamina doesn't mean I don't!

New Friends and Baths

On August 8th I did something my grandma found curious. She gave me a dog biscuit and I started digging a hole in the back yard. She thought I was burying the biscuit. But I wasn't. After digging a shallow hole, I laid down in it. Mom said that's what the huskies do in snow and maybe that's why I did it. I just thought it was fun.

I met a new friend on the 12th. A new neighbor has a puppy named Hagen. He's a retriever/lab mix. He's very cute. He was a little afraid of me at first but we became friends and played for a little bit.

The next day on our walk I stopped at Hagen's house and looked for him but he wasn't outside. But the day after that he was and we got to play some more.

Later that day my family tried to trick me into my pool to give me a bath. As if I didn't know what they were planning!!!! Unfortunately, they succeeded in giving me a bath even though I didn't fall for their plan. Rats! Foiled again!! But I must say I smell nice and clean again.

A.W.O.L.

August 1st was an exciting day for me. We had pizza for dinner! The lady that delivered it said I was beautiful. But that wasn't the exciting part.

Later that evening papa was taking down the flags on the front deck. Grandma let me out to the front deck not knowing that papa had taken down the barrier at the stairs. So I did what any self-respecting dog would do... I went for an unauthorized walk (this was the exciting part of the day). Yep! All by myself. My family didn't catch up with me until Dash's house.

I just wanted to go for A Walk Off Leash (get it, A.W.O.L, haha). I never get to have any fun. Mom says I have a fairy dogmother because when I get loose I always go towards the neighborhood. On the other side of our house is a highway. Later Bailey came by and took me for a walk (on leash).

The next day our neighbor brought over their gold fish for us to babysit while they were on vacation. Grandma and mom tried to get me interested in it but it was boring. Can you imagine swimming around in a bowl all day?

On August 6th mom made tomato soup. I couldn't have any because it has onions in it but she did let me smell the spices before she put them in the pot. I especially loved the dill. It smelled so good.

Paris Hilton Visits

Well, it's July 24th and we have company. Uncle Paul and Aunt Laura came for a visit. They brought Pez and Jasper with them. Pez growled at me again. Hmmph! Whose house does she think this is? Grandma said that Pez reminds her of Paris Hilton because she's a spoiled little dog. I think that's funny. Wish I knew who Paris Hilton was. Or maybe not.

Jasper was very nice to me. He didn't really do much but rest. He's a very old dog. Grandma loves Jasper.

On Monday the UPS guy came by to deliver a box. I ran to the door to say hi. He said "Hello, lovely girl!" Wasn't that sweet?

It's been cooler lately. I like that. I really don't like the heat at all. If I could remove my fur coat, I might like it a little better. Grandma noticed that I'm running around a lot more with the cooler weather.

On the 27th Bailey and Morgan came by to take me for a walk. I was very happy to see them and gave Morgan some smoochies. The next day we got to see Dash again. His people said that they saw Amy taking me for a walk a few days ago.

Oh, you are going to laugh at this!! The next day we went for a walk and grandma saw a lizard. She screamed!!!! Hahahahahaha!!!! Grandma is afraid of lizards! They showed it to me before it scurried off. I'm not afraid of lizards.

That night Amy came by to take me for a walk. I was up in mom's room relaxing. I heard Amy calling my name and went running downstairs to see her.

A few days later I was in the backyard when I saw Amy coming up the driveway to take me for another walk. I went running into the house to greet her and give her smoochies.

Nose Kisses

On July 16th we met Lily on a walk. She's a very small dog. I gave her some nose kisses. The humans seemed to like that. That weekend we saw Sadie on our walk. We had a race to the end of the fence. It was a tie.

When we walked on the 20th a little girl came running out to see me and give me a hug. I don't know why but the kids just love me. Actually so do the grown-ups. Everybody loves me!!

A couple days later we got to see Dash on our walk. I know I say it all the time but I'm going to say it again... I love Dash!!!!! It was so good to see him.

Later that day grandma gave me a piece of toast. I didn't eat it. I tried to find a good place to hide it where nobody will find it. I went through several places before I found the perfect spot. No, I'm not going to tell you where that is!!!!

Lately when I go to wake up mom she, grandma and I howl together. I like howling with my family. Of course I have no idea what they are saying. It's like they don't even know the howling language. I think one of them said "No, thank you, I'm allergic to shell fish". What does that mean?

The Long Hot Summer

Well, it's July 11th and the summer heat has definitely arrived. I can't say I like it very much. As you know, I wear a fur coat everyday and can't take it off. Luckily my humans are very good about trying to keep me cool. I've learned to stay under the fans when it's very hot.

Grandma and papa went to get doughnuts this morning and guess what! They got me my very own doughnut holes! All for me! Well, there were only two but they were what my mom is calling Mia-sized. I love that. Personally I think everything is Mia-sized.

On our walk I got to see Sadie. We gave each other a nose kiss. She's so nice. For lunch we had what mom called piglets in a blanket. Haha! That's funny. Well, you've surely heard of pigs in a blanket. Instead of normal-sized hot dogs we had little mini hot dogs in the croissants. They were yummy piglets!

The next evening Bailey and her friend, Sage, came by to ask if they could take me for a walk. Grandma said yes. I love going for walks! I was exhausted after this walk though. I think it was still a little too hot.

On the 14th after mom went to bed I decided I wanted to go spend some time with her. She wasn't asleep yet. She was still getting ready for bed. So I jumped up on her bed and just lay there for a while. Then I went back downstairs for a minute or two then went back up to her bed. This time I took the pillow end!!! She has comfy pillows. I stayed for several minutes then finally left after leaving lots of my fur on her sheets.

As I said, it's been hot lately. My family has been putting a cool, wet wash cloth on my head and sometimes on the rest of my body. I like that. It really helps me keep cool. Don't I have a thoughtful family?

Thunder Storms and Lattes

Over the next few days grandma kept enticing me into the pool with some treats. I did every time but once when I put my paw down and said heck no! She didn't give me the treat!!! Hmmph!

On the 7th I was upstairs with grandma. Mom was at work. Grandma could see out the window that Dash was going by so she told me. I looked out the window and there he was! I love Dash!!! I watched until he was out of sight. I wish I could have said hello to him up close.

That night I played with my crazy critter for a little bit. I was kinda gnawing on it. I was trying to find the little squeaky part. I finally found it.

The next evening Amy came by and took me for a walk. We ran all the way around the block. I was pooped when I got home. But it was a good kind of tired. I love to run and Amy has enough energy to keep up with me. Thanks for the run, Amy.

That night we had a thunderstorm. I jumped up on grandma and papa's bed so they would know it was okay and the storm wouldn't hurt them.

On the morning of the 9th I was waiting and waiting for mom to finish with her coffee. Sometimes she saves me a little. Well, she did and the second she came downstairs with her coffee cup, I started following her around. I even did a couple of shark bumps on the cup to get her attention. I think she was playing with me because she kept walking around like she didn't notice me! Finally I got my coffee. It was so good. A latte I think. Yum!

Happy Independence Day!!!

It's the 4th of July! Now I know you know what this day is. It's America's birthday. My mom says the USA is 234 years old today. Wow! That's 1638 in dog years! Happy birthday to the greatest country in the world!!!!

Grandma was happy with something I did today for the first time. Or is it only the first time my family has noticed? Anyway, I was looking out the front windows. Those windows have a very low window sill and they are perfect for a dog to put it's head on the sill. And that's what I did for the first time. No big deal. But grandma made a big thing out of it. She said all my predecessors and cousins have done the same thing and she's been waiting for me to do it too. Glad I could make her life so exciting with such a mundane thing. She needs to get a life!

The next day my family set up a little kiddie pool for me. They said it will help keep me cool in the summer. I think the a/c in the house does that already! Silly humans. Why would I want to get wet? I suspect what my family really wants is to use the pool to give me a bath. But I'm on to them! I'm not gonna get in willingly.

Okay, well, maybe a little willingly. Grandma enticed me with a piece of chicken to put my front paws in the pool. Then another piece of chicken and all four paws were in the pool. But I jumped right out after eating the chicken! No bath yet but I'm still suspicious. I will admit it was nice to cool my paws in the water.

Nasty Little Creatures

Well, it's already June 30th. This year is just flying by! Today Amy came by and took me for a walk. We also got to meet Amy's dad. He seemed nice. Did you know that Amy also walks my friend, Sadie? She does. Sadie never told me that! Probably wanted to keep Amy to herself. Well, her secret is out now.

The next day we met a new neighbor. After saying I was beautiful (several times), he said my family should get a sled so I can pull them. What? Me work? What is he thinking? This kind of beautiful does NOT work! That's what humans are for. Serious lapse in judgment by that human. Hmmph!

On July 3rd we went for our usual walk. In the afternoon I saw a fly on the living room window. I tried to catch it but it was too fast for me. I DO NOT LIKE FLIES!!!! I don't know if I've ever mentioned this but the tips of my ears were eaten away by flies at my previous home so you can imagine why I hate those nasty creatures so much. I am glad my new family takes better care of me. I'm very lucky to have found myself this wonderful home. Okay, so they found me. Whatever.

You Missed the Big Dog!!

On June 26th we were slated to have our power off all day so the PG&no-E could do some work. My family planned a day out so we didn't have to stay in a hot house all day. And boy was it hot. It must have been close to 100. Ugh! And here I am wearing a fur coat!! I'm glad my family had a cool alternative.

We went to visit papa's sister again. Auntie Colleen and Uncle Ray met us there. We had fun. I was crying most of the time because I didn't want to just sit there and visit. I like to move around and meet new people.

So grandma took me around the facility to meet the other residents. Everyone was coming out of their rooms to see me. I am such a big hit at that place. Only one or two people didn't want to see me because they aren't dog fans. I guess that's okay as long as there are only a few of them.

When grandma said they got me at the shelter, one lady said she couldn't understand why anyone would give me up. I don't know either but I sure am glad they did. I have a wonderful home now! Not to mention my own blog. A dog could get used to this life.

Auntie Colleen said that some people told her that they missed the big dog that was there. They said "no, we didn't." Then the people asked "are you related" and Auntie said yes! They were talking about me. I'm not that big! I mean I'm certainly no Chihuahua but I'm not a Great Dane either!

Well, I think my family will take me with them most times they visit papa's sister now. The people there just love me. Mom says I have charisma. I'm not sure what that is but it sounds like something good. She said that people seem to know I'm a wonderful dog without even getting close to me. She says maybe I have an aura around me. I don't understand that either but I'll go along with it if it's something good.

Battles and Foul Stenches

Well, it's now June 23rd. Do you know what that is? No, I don't think you do know. Mom says it's the 696th anniversary of the Scottish Battle of Bannockburn! Well, the start of the battle anyway. It lasted 2 days. Mom says it's when the Scottish (think Robert the Bruce) beat the English for independence. Which they ended up losing again but I guess they were free for a little bit. Can you tell that mom's favorite movie is Braveheart? Yep.

So we went for a walk and Sadie came over to the fence to say hi. We touched noses. Grandma thought that was extremely cute. I'm surprised she didn't have the camera out!! She's worse than the pupparazzi!!!!

The next day grandma played a new game with me. It's called hide and seek. Mom says all little kids play this game. It was fun!!! I found grandma twice! So either I'm really good at this game or grandma is really bad at hiding. Or maybe it's that foul stench I recognized when she was brought on board! Hahahaha! Just kidding, grandma. You know I love that joke.

Alcatraz Prison Clothing

Just a reminder of my prison jumpsuit... maybe I should wear it full time since the prison guard seems to always be on duty these days.

Alcatraz

So on June 17th I started sunning myself outside again. Grandma kept a close eye on me. She's like a prison guard now!!! She wouldn't let me out of her sight. Just because of a little adventure outside the prison gates. Jeez!

A couple days later grandma found a kiddie pool at a neighborhood garage sale. She thinks I don't know what she's up to. But I heard mom say that they could use it to give me baths. Yuck! I hate baths!!!! They are not gonna get me in that pool EVER!

Actually mom said that the main reason they got the pool is so I can keep cool in the summer. Maybe dip my paws in it on a hot day. We'll see. As a rule, I don't particularly like water. But it does get pretty hot in the summer... or so my family tells me. So far it's been a cool summer so I'm not sure they're telling me the truth. Probably just a ploy to get me in the pool so they can give me a bath.

I had a visitor on the 19th. Amy came by to see me and brought a friend of hers. They wanted to take me for a walk. Grandma and mom said it was okay but they had to hold tight to my leash. So off we went. I was very well-behaved. Those kids have lots of energy so we ran almost all the way around the block. It was so much fun! I hope they come back to take me for a walk again.

Buried Treasure and Crazy Critters

Well, it's June 14th. I'm sure you know what that means. Flag Day!!! Happy Birthday to the Stars & Stripes, the prettiest flag in the world.

Grandma was very excited about something I did today. She had hidden some dog treats for me on Saturday when they abandoned me. I didn't find all of them on that day (probably because I was sad and lonely and crying in a corner). But I found one today and I took it over and put it in my bed. Then I covered it with my blanket. I wouldn't want anyone to steal it from me. This is the first time I've buried a dog treat which is why grandma was so excited. She even called mom at work to tell her. But she didn't give mom any details!!! She waited until mom got home for that.

Also that night I got a present from my family. Wasn't that nice of them? It's called a Crazy Critter. It's a stuffed raccoon without the stuffing. Does that mean it's a non-stuffed raccoon? Yeah, I think so! I guess some dogs rip into their toys and get the stuffing all over so they've now made non-stuffed toys. Interesting. I take good care of my toys. Mostly by not playing with them. I guess because I had such a hard life in my first two years, I've been forced to grow up fast and give up toys. Anyway, I strangely felt like playing this time. I chewed on my raccoon for a little bit and carried it around. Mom tried to get me to do more but that's all I'm comfortable with at this time. Gotta leave them wanting more, right?

Abandoned!

On June 12th my family abandoned me. They were gone for 7 hours 4 minutes and 32.83 seconds!! It seemed like a lifetime. They went to some place called a museum. Whatever. They even went out to dinner without me. Not that they usually take me out to dinner. They always tell me that the restaurants don't allow dogs inside. Sounds like discrimination to me. Where are the rights for Canine Americans? Despicable!

Uncle Ray saved me the bone from his steak and oh was it yummy! Thank you, Uncle Ray. At least someone remembered me all alone at home in a dank, dark home with no windows or doors for a long 10 hours 34 minutes and 56.2 seconds. Well, I'm probably exaggerating about it having no doors. I think it has a tiny fairy door that nobody can fit through.

When they finally got home (after 12 hours 47 minutes and 42.95 seconds of being home alone), they took me for a walk. We stopped at a neighbor's house. They were having a party for their son who had just returned home from Iraq. Though it might have been Afghanistan. I get those places confused sometimes. Anyway, grandma gave him a welcome home card and thanked him for his service. He was very nice so I let him pet me.

Entrapment!

I was framed on June 10th! Framed I tell you!!! It was entrapment! Grandma put a bag of garbage by the back door. What is a dog supposed to do when she finds a bag of garbage? What would any self-respecting dog do in such a situation? She would get into the garbage and see if there's anything good to eat. That's what she would do. Especially if she can already smell the yummy food in the bag.

I don't know how she does it though. Does grandma have eyes in back of her head? How did she know that I had gotten into the garbage and was eating a flour tortilla? Can you believe she actually took it away from me? Why did she have to do that? She was only going to throw it away. Why not give it to me? Haven't I been a good dog? Well, maybe not lately but I'm usually very well-behaved and deserve special treats.

Later grandma did admit that it was entrapment on her part so I didn't have to go back to the cooler. Good thing... I've misplaced my baseball and glove and would have been bored out of my mind. Again, refer to The Great Escape if you don't get that reference.

Make sure you check out the pictures below that show the humiliating prison jumpsuit I had to wear the last time I was in the cooler.

Prison Jumpsuit

I had to wear this prison jumpsuit while in the cooler. How degrading.

This is the back of my prison jumpsuit.

The Cooler Queen

Sorry I haven't posted anything this week. Due to my escape I was detained. Solitary confinement for a week. Just call me the Cooler Queen! Hahaha! Just kidding! I wasn't in the cooler. My humans forgive my every transgression. Haven't I said before that I have them wrapped around my little paw? Gullible humans.

So nothing happened for several days after my great escape. We went for our walk every day. Then on June 9th Grandma took me out to the back yard. I immediately headed for my escape tunnel!! I had just gotten to the tunnel and was about to go under the fence when grandma yelled "No!" and I stopped in my tracks. Why must I behave humans when they say no? I don't know why I do it! Anyway, grandma filled the hole right then and there and put a big rock on top of the dirt. I guess that's the end of Tom. Now on to Dick or Harry.

If you don't get that joke (or the other allusions I've made in this post to the movie), go rent The Great Escape. And shame on you for not getting them! Bad humans, no biscuit!!

The Great Escape (or Escape from Club Gitmo)

It's June 5th, Uncle Ray's birthday. Happy birthday, Uncle Ray! To celebrate my family took me to the park. It's been a long time since we've been there. We didn't stay a long time but long enough to sniff lots of smells and meet a couple of dogs. First there was a little boy who came up and asked mom if I was a nice dog. Then he petted me and gave me a hug and a smoochie. He said he is a big dog person. What a sweet little boy.

Then we met Harley, a Jack Russell terrier. He was very nice. I think he had a crush on me! After that, we met a blind yellow lab named Tia. I was a little afraid of her. You will remember that I was viciously attacked by a yellow lab. Mom says that labs aren't usually mean but my experience makes me leery of them.

I was very naughty that afternoon. Grandma let me out to the back yard for a little bit. When she came to check on me, I wasn't there. Well, actually she found me eventually. I was on the other side of the fence! I had dug a hole under the fence and escaped. I started running up the street but grandma called me back and I came to her. Boy, was my family upset. They said I could have been run over by a car because there is a busy highway behind our house. I didn't know. Really. I'm sorry. I was so dirty that grandma gave me a bath. I don't like baths. But I am now nice and clean and I smell so good. My family did forgive me a few hours later. I don't know if I will escape again. Only time will tell. But I have heard my family talking and they say I won't be in the yard unsupervised anymore.

Play Date and Miscellaneous Pics

Licking the mashed potatoes off the beater.

My friend, Sadie. Isn't she beautiful?

Sadie likes to have a security towel. Here she is offering it to me. Wasn't that sweet of her to share it with me?

My muddy paws after digging.

My muddy face. Mom is calling this my mug shot.

Trying to take a nap after the tiring play date... the pupparazzi just won't leave me alone.

Pictures from Auntie Colleen

Here I am inside the house.

And outside in my yard.

Play Date With Sadie

Gosh, this weekend has been busy. As if the visit to the hospital was not enough! The next day Sadie, the golden retriever puppy, and her family came over for a play date. I barked at Sadie when I first saw her.

Then Sadie and I sniffed each other a little. After that, the real fun began! Sadie and I were chasing each other all over the yard. Sadie has a lot energy! She tired me out. I had to keep taking breaks. I ran more than I've run in a long time. Well, I had a blast with Sadie. I hope I get to have more play dates with her.

I almost forgot to mention that I started digging a little hole while Sadie was visiting. She started to help me but her family didn't want her to dig. Evidently she likes to dig and chew and they are trying to break that habit. Anyway, I got quite muddy. I will put some pics up for you to see.

A couple of nights later grandma started howling. Then papa started. So I joined in. Then mom came out and started howling too. The family that howls together stays together. Isn't that the saying?

We had a few days with nothing exciting happening. Then Uncle Ray and Auntie Colleen came over for dinner. Auntie took more pictures of me. I will try to find one to share it with you.

My Big Day

May 21st was an exciting day for me. My humans took me with them when they got gas in the car. It was fun but that wasn't the exciting part. Then we went to the vet's office so they could weigh me. No, that wasn't the exciting part either. But then we went to a place that grandma called the mall. There were a lot of people there. And all of them wanted to see me. Well, maybe they were there for other reasons but they all stopped to see me. Maybe I should start charging for head scratches and belly rubs. One guy said he used to have a dog like me. Her name was Sasha. Well, if she was like me, Sasha must have been very beautiful and sweet.

We weren't at the mall very long. Grandma started bringing me to the door to leave. But I thought it was too early to go. There might have been more people wanting to pet me. So I plopped myself down on the floor. I find this to be a very useful tactic. I'm like dead weight when I do this and my humans can't move me at all. Eventually grandma and a passing girl got me up.

Well, that was part of the exciting day but there was more. After the mall, we went to a convalescent hospital to visit papa's sister. First the ladies that work at the front desk came out to see me. They loved me!!! Then we went in to Auntie's room. We were there for a few minutes but I got restless and some of the residents said they wanted to see me. So grandma took me out to the hall and showed me to a few people. And we walked around and found others that wanted to see me. Then we went back to Auntie's room.

We weren't there very long when a nurse came in. We thought she was coming to ask us to leave because I had started howling. A quiet howl but still a howl that might have bothered the other residents. Well, she didn't ask us to leave. She asked if we could go to the room next door to visit a man named Chester. He had heard me and asked if he could see me. Everybody loves Mia!! I think I'm a celebrity at this place!!! Well, they love me and I love them. It's fun to get so much attention and all the petting and scratches. I've been told I'm good for the residents too. I don't know about that but if we're all happy, we ought to do this more often. I do hope my family brings me back to visit. Oh, and as we were leaving, a few ladies that were outside as I was visiting inside asked if we would be back and they gave grandma their room numbers so we could visit them next time. I was a big hit!!!

Canine Chores and Marinating Smoochies

On May 16th mom started something new again. We had roast beef and mashed potatoes for dinner. After mashing the potatoes, mom let me lick the beaters. Yum!!!! I like this new "job" of mine. I'm not sure if I've mentioned before that another chore of mine is to clean up food that has spilled on the floor. Grandma will yell out "clean up on aisle 4" and I'll come running to clean up the mess. That is a fun chore. I mean, it's hard work but someone has got to do the dirty work!

A few days later I woke grandma up with smoochies. She has started saying that the smoochies are my way of marinating my family. Oh, no! They are on to my plan to make them nice and tender then eat them for dinner one day!

At dusk I was outside with grandma and mom and there was a deer on the other side of the fence. I stood and watched it for a while. Fascinating creatures... maybe I will write a paper about them one day.

Kisses in the Air

May 9th I got to see Dash on our morning walk. I was excited to see him but a little more subdued than usual. Grandma says I'm maturing. Ha! That's what she thinks!

Not much happened in the next few days. Just the normal daily walks. On the 12th though I got to go for two walks. Our normal morning walk then papa took me for a walk in the afternoon. Just the two of us. It was a very nice walk.

It's May 14th. Do you know why this day is special? It's mom's half birthday! Happy Half Birthday, mom!! Grandma took me for a walk today. We heard Randy barking. I looked over at his yard but I didn't see him.

The next night mom started something new. She sat by me while I was resting and blew kisses at me. Every time she did it I sniffed the air. She did it again and again. What a fun new game!

Mia the Sun Dog

I've started something new again. I've already told you how much I love my fenced yard. Do you know what else I can do back there other than study the animals on the other side of the fence? I can lie down and sun myself. Oh, it's so nice and warm outside in the sun. I love it!! I go out and get a little sun almost every day. It's very relaxing. A 20 minute nap in the sun. Grandma calls me the Sun Dog. Aaaaahhhh, this is the life.

On May 7th we saw some new people on our walk. Two young guys outside of their house. I dragged grandma over to say hi to them. One said "oh, a husky" so I guess he likes huskies. The other guy was a little older and had a beard. I don't know why but I'm a little cautious around men with beards. But I still let both of them pet me.

The next day we saw Buddy. He's a black dog. I'm not sure of his nationality. But he is a very nice dog.

Grandma has started playing a new game with me. When we come back in from the back yard, grandma and I race to the door. Sometimes she wins and sometimes I win. Well, sometimes I let grandma win. We all know that dogs are faster runners than humans. Especially weak and elderly humans. Just kidding, grandma!!! You're not that old and you certainly aren't weak. But I knew you'd find that funny.

Jogging Birds and Blue Jay Stew

Well, it's the end of April. Have I mentioned that I love my new fenced yard? I really do. It's so nice to be able to look out at the world and see the people and animals going by. I get to see squirrels and deer and all sorts of birds. Grandma says that there is even a fox that comes around sometimes but I have never seen her. Grandma loves the fence too. She likes that she can let me roam free outside without worrying about me running off or getting hurt.

I got to see Sadie when we went for a walk. She was on the other side of her fence but we sniffed each other and played as best we could with the fence between us. Grandma says that Sadie can come over for a play date now that we have a fenced yard. That will be fun!

On May 1st I saw some strange birds on the other side of the fence. Grandma called them quail. What a strange name for a strange creature. They have little tassles on their heads and instead of flying they jog!!! Haha. Just kidding about the flying and jogging. Of course they can fly. They're birds. Although I have been told that penguins are birds and they can't fly. Whatever. Anyway, the quail look like they are jogging when they walk fast. It's fun to watch them and imagine them in jogging shorts.

Later that day there was a blue jay on the back deck. Grandma let me outside and I tried to catch it but it was too fast for me. I don't know what I would do with it if I had caught it. Maybe blue jay stew?

And that night my entire family gave me a massage. Six hands scratching and rubbing!!! A dream come true.

Party Time : A Smidgen of Trouble

On April 24th we got up early. Grandma said we were going to have a party. I love parties!!! Well, I think I love parties. I've never actually been to one. But my grandma told me that we would have lots of people at our house. You know how much I love people. Think of all the scratches and tummy rubs! Not to mention all the people saying how beautiful I am. I can't wait to meet them!

Well, my mom's cousin, Jeanine, said that I was gorgeous. I don't hear that very often. I like Jeanine. She gave me lots of scratches. I also got to see mom's friends, Paula, Paula (yes, there are two Paulas), and Charlie and Paula's kids (not that Paula!). Okay, that was fun to write and I probably confused you a little. Uncle Ray, Aunt Colleen, Ryann, Uncle Paul, Aunt Laura, Geneva and Adam were all there too. Lots of our neighbors came and grandma's sisters (Gloria, Eula, and Neoma) came too. And mom's friend, Harrilyn, came all the way from Foster City with mom's cousin, Yolanda and Yo's son and grandson. It was the first time grandma, papa and I got to meet Harrilyn. She is a fun lady. She knows how to have a good time! And she loves dogs. Her dog is named Oreo G. I haven't seen a picture but mom says he is adorable. I'm sure Oreo G. and I would have fun together. Maybe I will get to meet him some day.

So I had a lot of fun at the party. Lots of scratches and tummy rubs like I thought. And I must admit I was a little bad. Just a smidge! I preyed upon the weak and the elderly. One of grandma's sisters was sitting on a chair with her dish on her lap. While she was eating her sandwich, I tried to eat some of her potato salad. They caught me before I could get to it though! Darn it!! Foiled again!!! But they weren't as successful the next time. Another sister was holding a slice of roast beef. What was I supposed to do??? It was just dangling there waiting for me to take it. So I did! And I can't say I regret it either. It was yummy!! Wahahahaha!

Later I was able to sneak out the door when someone went outside. I was very confused. I was trying to find my way back in by the new fence gates. Finally someone let me back in. Hey! Wait a minute. I was free! I could have investigated the neighborhood like I've wanted to do. But there was so much food at the party. I just couldn't pass that up for anything.

Memorial Day 2010 Pictures

Here are our American flags on display for Memorial Day. We didn't get a picture of the military service flags.

Here I am relaxing in Camp Gitmo while waiting for my hamburger.

Here I am inside with a mischievous look in my eye. What trouble was I about to cause? The world may never know.

Camp Gitmo

On April 19th something fell in the pantry. I went to investigate but I couldn't find what caused it to fall. Maybe we have a ghost? Oh, yeah, mom has said that we have a ghost living with us. I forgot. His name is Julius. He moves things sometimes. And other times he borrows things and brings them back later.

I've started doing something that the humans find amusing. Rather then getting up to move a few feet, I just scootch on over. They are calling me a lazy dog. I think they are just jealous because they can't scootch.

A few days later the guys finished putting up the fence. When mom got home from work, my family took me out to the newly fenced yard. I did a perimeter check around the whole area. My family thinks I was looking for an escape hatch because I was very interested in the areas where the fence didn't quite meet the dirt. So maybe I want to do a little investigating outside the yard. Is that a crime? I'd always come back. My family is calling the yard Camp Gitmo.

French Bread and Phantom Dogs

On the 10th of April grandma and papa went shopping. I miss them when they are gone. But I went up to mom's room and sent some time on her bed. She has such a nice comfy bed. I did get a nice treat when grandma and papa got home. They bought French bread. Oh, how I love French bread!! Yum!! Unfortunately I had to share it with the rest of the family.

A few days later the Comcast guy had to come over. It wasn't the same one as last time. This one thought I was a wolf. He petted me and was very nice to me.

Later I was relaxing on the floor next to grandma as she was making dinner. She told me that mom would be home soon and to go see. So I went to the garage door to check but mom wasn't home yet. I think grandma was testing to see if I knew what she was saying and where to look for mom. She should know I'm smart enough to know all that.

On Friday the 16th we went for a walk again. A car passed by. The windows were closed but grandma could tell that the lady inside said "what a beautiful dog." 'nuff said. :)

That night my family was watching a movie with dogs in it. I thought there were real dogs in the house. I even ran upstairs to look for them but couldn't find them anywhere. I wonder where they went and how they got inside without me knowing.