Zona's Pawprints

The One with Cali's Big Day

2012-01-27T20:16:00.002-05:00

So Cali is SUPER excited about her big day! Not only is she going to the Blogville Dance with Shiver... and how cool is that?? My two sisters are going to the Dance with two brothers! But she's also going to Fudge's birthday party! I know she's going to have a fantastical time on Valentine's Day! The Dance will be a not-to-miss Blogville event and you KNOW The Porties parties are legendary!

She's resting up for the festivities as I paw this!

The One with the Dates

2012-01-20T21:12:00.004-05:00

Some of you may have noticed that Chico asked Phoenix to the big Valentine Dance!!!

Isn't he a cutie? Phoenix has been dancing around here with her head in the clouds. I've never seen her this way!

I've been excited because my bestest and onlyest boy Sarge has asked me to the dance.

I guess that leaves Miss Cali home to enjoy the quiet during the dance.

Unless anyone happens to need a date! She's a great dancer...

She can be lots of laughs too!

She always packs the best snacks whenever she travels.

And, of course, she's beautiful!!

The One with the Introduction

2012-01-17T16:10:00.000-05:00

Hi... I'm Z-O-N-A.

You may remember me. I used to blog daily. I used to comment daily... several times a day, in fact!

I used to be on time for Blogville Events.

I used to be able to put my paws up in the evening and BOL at silly peemails.

Now, I'm working around the clock! And when I'm not working, mom is hogging MY laptop!!

Well, I wrestled it from her tonight and have caught up on about HALF your bloggies! I'm getting there!

Please don't forget me.

I'll try to post again SOON.

If not... send help.

I may need an intervention.

The One with Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-10T23:12:00.001-05:00

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPaw!

The One with the Flake

2012-01-09T16:52:00.004-05:00

You all know about the Blogville event last week, right?

Well... the number one reason my mom is a flake is pretty obvious isn't it? Today is January NINTH! Ugh!

Thanks to her, I am far behind on not only my blog but also all of yours!! Good grief!

The most important things I have been wanting to post is my huge box of Christmas pressies from Sarge!

Isn't he SO handsome??

I really like this Christmas stuffy!!

But then I noticed these HOMEMADE treats. Oh my dogness!! They were, I'm embarrassed to admit, were gone in a FLASH! Sarge's mom even wrote out the ingredients so my mom knew they were safe for Miss Cali, since she's allergic to so many things. That meant I had to share. BOL

But my all time favorite? THIS ANTLER!! I sent Sarge a puny little STORE bought antler and he sends me THIS!!!! Am I the luckiest doggie in Blogville or what??

Cali has claimed the super cool squeaky toys. She LOVES squeaky toys. I'm happy to share... since I didn't have to share my antler!

The better video of Cali tossing it in the air and squeaking it is giving me fits right now and won't play OR post so here is the more boring of the two!

Click play arrow to view video.

Side note: as mom played this video after it posted, both Phoenix and Cali went to the toy box to find these toys and are squeaking them as I dictate this post to mom!

The One with the Doxie Diva

2011-12-25T04:37:00.001-05:00

As you can imagine, it's been a little busy around here as I helped get ready for our first Christmas with my mini-two-legger. So... here's a repeat from last Christmas. I hope you consider it an "oldie but goodie" as they say!

As sung to Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer

You know Ginger and Sandy,

And Zona and Cali,

Mesa and Molly,

And Stella and Wally.

But do you recall
The cutest DIVA of all?

Phoenix the doxie diva
Has a very shiny coat
And if you ever saw it
You would even say it glows
All of the other doggies
Used to laugh and call her names

They never let poor Phoenix
Play in any doggie games

Then one foggy Christmas Eve
Santa came to say,
"Phoenix with your coat so bright
Won't you guide my sleigh tonight?"
Then all the doggies loved her

And they shouted out with glee,

"Phoenix the doxie diva
You'll go down in history!"
We hope everyone has a
wonderful Doxie Diva Christmas!

The One with My Annual Wish

2011-12-24T05:35:00.000-05:00

The One with the Christmas Eve Wish

On Christmas morning, I wish...

For every dog and cat searching trash cans for breakfast,
a filled bowl with his name printed in bright letters.

For every dog who slept fitfully last night
chained in a frozen yard and every cat
who wandered the cold streets,
a soft, warm bed with a person snoring gently nearby.

For every lost pet, a clear, safe road and
well marked path to lead you home.

For every shelter animal, spending Christmas
morning in a soiled run, a forever home
filled with sounds and smells of family.

For every "Christmas" pup and kitten given today,
a tolerant, caring owner who won't abandon you
as you grow into a real dog or cat.

For every ailing pet, enough money for your
owner to pay the bills to make you well.

For every old and tired friend, a warm fire and
soft bed to ease your aches and pains.

For every pet at the Bridge, a moment when
you know that you are remembered today,
missed again and loved forever.

Author Unknown

The One with "Just a Dog"

2011-12-23T04:01:00.001-05:00

Each year my mom has noticed that one phrase seems to stand out for her, almost like an annual phrase that everyone suddenly adopts and she soon starts to loathe but eventually catches herself saying by the time the next phrase is "on her list." A couple of the more recent phrases, which my mom has succumbed to and has added to her vocabulary: "It is what it is" and "Just sayin'." However, this year's phrase she will NEVER add to her vocabulary and it's beyond annoying to her AND to ME!

Before the arrival of my mini-two-legger, we heard from various sources about the assumed inevitability of having to "get rid of" us pups. Oooo.. my mom was SO annoyed by those comments. And did the comments amp up when Nico came first home? You bet! "They're just dogs," people would say, "you need to focus on that baby!" Uh... hello?? We're her babies too!! (No one has dared say anything to her lately, since it's obvious how much we all love our baby brother!)

She's been keyed into that phrase all year and has heard people randomly say, "just a dog," now and then. But, last night, catching up on blogs, we read Ms. Sandra's post where she was told "they were just dogs." My mom, bawling her eyes out reading her post, couldn't believe her teary eyes. On a good day, we feel sorry for those two-leggers who don't know what a gift it is to love a dog or how wonderful it is to be loved unconditionally by a dog. On a bad day... well... our feelings are not as generous.

It reminds her of this poem:

From time to time, people tell me, "lighten up, it's just a dog,"
or, "that's a lot of money for just a dog."

They don't understand the distance traveled, the time spent, or the costs involved for "just a dog."

Some of my proudest moments have come about with "just a dog."

Many hours have passed and my only company was "just a dog,"
but I did not once feel slighted.

Some of my saddest moments have been brought about by "just a dog,"
and in those days of darkness, the gentle touch of "just a dog" gave me comfort and reason to overcome the day.

If you, too, think it's "just a dog," then you will probably understand
phrases like "just a friend," "just a sunrise," or "just a promise."

"Just a dog" brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust,
and pure unbridled joy.

"Just a dog" brings out the compassion and patience that make me a better person.

Because of "just a dog", I will rise early, take long walks and look longingly to the future.

So for me and folks like me, it's not "just a dog" but an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future,
the fond memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment.

"Just a dog" brings out what's good in me and diverts my thoughts away
from myself and the worries of the day.

I hope that someday they can understand that it's not "just a dog",
but the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being
"just a man or woman."

So the next time you hear the phrase "just a dog"
just smile...
because they "just don't understand."

by Richard Bib

The One from Blogville PD

2011-12-22T09:41:00.002-05:00

Special thanks to Sarge for the idea AND for creating this card

from your Friendly Blogville Police Department
to you, the residents of our wonderful Blogville!!

And congrats to the Dachsies with Moxie for winning the auction for the car seat!! Thanks so much for participating! It's doubly great - the car seat is going to a fantastical home AND more money for the Pittie Pack Fund! Just email me the address for where to send the seat and I'll have my ~~assistant~~ mom get it in the mail to you ASAP! ZonasPawprints at gmail!

Speaking of the Dachsies with Moxie, in case you haven't heard, they have commissioned their mom, whom they refer to as "What's Her Name" (BOL!! Love that!), to make a memory quilt for Ms. Sandra and they have asked all of us to consider sending in squares of fabric. Click here to read all about it!

The One with Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-21T08:34:00.001-05:00

Bidding on the auction to raise a little money
for Miss Sandra and the Pittie Pack ends tonight!
Click here for the auction post!

The One with Santa

2011-12-20T08:06:00.001-05:00

Some of you may have seen these pictures on my mom's blog but, just in case you didn't, I wanted to be sure you knew that my mom has STARTED to redeem herself. Remember how mean she's been?

Well, she didn't let me open Sarge's pressie BUT she did give me a present early!!

On Saturday, she took mini-two-legger and Cali to see Santa but let me stay home!!!!! She knew the tight space and crowd of excited to see baby and Cali two-legged-ladies would freak me out after I've been making such good progress. So I got to lay around all morning while Cali suffered through THIS:

As my mom said, the lady doing the photographing was confused by the orbs in the upper corner. She's been taking photos for two weeks and this is the only one with these shapes. Even the photos taken seconds before and after this one were fine. You know what we think about orbs around here!! Here's the picture outside of the frame.

My mini-two-legger was so brave! He didn't cry or even squirm! But he didn't smile either. BOL!

Nico was much happier to sit on this Santa's lap! I guess 'cause it was just my papa pretending to be Santa!

Don't forget about my
auction for the Pittie Pack!
Bidding ends tomorrow night!!

The One with the Bids

2011-12-19T11:14:00.002-05:00

My mom ordered a super special car seat for Miss Phoenix. It's a little too small for her. The return window has closed so our very own Mayor Frankie suggested putting it on my blog to raise money for the Pittie Pack. Isn't that a fantastical idea???

If you're interested in the seat, leave your bid in the comments. The highest bid as of this Wednesday, December 21 at 9 p.m. EST wins! I'll email the highest bidder and they can submit the funds directly via the ChipIn widget in the left menu bar. Miss Mayzie has graciously agreed to let us know when the payment is made and then shipping will be covered by me - ZONA!

What are you bidding on exactly??

An Animals Matter Companion Oversized Car Seat!!

Puppies are NOT included!! And our seat is tan (camel) and not charcoal as shown. Tags are still on the seat.

From the website:

Luxury Animals Matter® Companion Car Seat® Collection lets your pet travel first class—safely, comfortably and without missing the sights. The most innovatively designed pet Car Seat, in three sizes, has molded contours to fit your vehicle. Customized groove allows a lap belt to securely surround the front and a shoulder belt to buckle on the side. Extra clip in the back for stability; harness clasp. Dense upholstery foam is covered with luxurious padded rhino suede. Add the adjustable attachment for securing multiple dogs. Made in USA. 21"L x 20"W x 16"H, for dogs up to 30 lbs.

Click here for a description from the store where mom ordered it from this spring. AND to see a video of the seat. Just remember, the picture shows the charcoal color and our seat is the camel color!

Let's see how much money
we can add to the
Pittie Pack Fire Recovery Fund!!!

The One for Sandra and the Pittie Pack

2011-12-16T20:13:00.005-05:00

Many of you have by now heard the devastating news. The Houston Pittie Pack suffered unimaginable loss early this morning during a house fire. Click here to read Miss Mayzie's post. Blogville is flooding with tears. If you can, click the ChipIn widget to the left to help with their immediate needs. No amount is too small.

We are so thankful that all of the two-leggers, including the baby, and two of the Pitties got to safety but are heartbroken that five did not, despite best efforts. Run free Guero, Coco Chanel, Tiger, Lucky and, our Blogville Miracle, Shelby. I know you all had a record breaking welcome at the bridge.

If you have the time, we are posting comments on Sandra's post from a few days ago in support.

Frankie was so right when he said, "I never in all my life thought I would have such a difficult thing to have to post."

The One with Mean Mom

2011-12-15T08:16:00.001-05:00

So, we need to add another reason to the why my mom is bad list (besides not helping me blog very often these days)!! I got a super special pressie from Sarge and because it is wrapped so festively my mean mom won't let me open it until Christmas! Can you believe that?? Someone needs to call the ASPCA!!

Anyway, regarding my last post, since mom spied on me (add that to the list too!) and now knows how I leave the yard, I suppose there's no reason I can't tell you too... I know how to open the gate! The problem? It closes automatically behind me and I don't know how to open it from the outside! We live near the end of a rural gravel road with little to no traffic but mom said it is still unsafe to leave the yard. And I'm starting to believe her!

The other night I opened the gate and couldn't get back in. It was dark and cold and I was spooked! So was my mom! She rescued me and gave me a big hug. Maybe she's not that mean after all! She sure loves me!

I haven't opened the gate since! And I've been warm and toasty!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPaw!

The One with the Picture

2011-12-04T12:56:00.003-05:00

So... do you see something strange about this picture?

Let me zoom in for you...

Yep, I'm outside my gate and Phoenix's beau is inside the gate!!

How did this happen? BOL... I'll never tell!

The One with Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-23T13:05:00.002-05:00

Thinking of Sarge!!!

Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone!

The One with Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-16T22:05:00.002-05:00

We have COMPANY! My Aunt Katie is here so we have been B U S Y! I will catch you all up as soon as I can! For now... Wordless Wednesday:

The One with Rescue Me Week

2011-11-07T21:22:00.004-05:00

Remember Miss Mayzie's Rescue Week?? If not, click on the badge below to read all about it. Today is Day ONE!

This is Baxter!

He is a sweet boy at one of my favorite rescue leagues: Middleburg Humane Foundation. This is what they have to say about this fella:

Baxter came to us after living most of his short life on a chain. He is a sweet boy that has lots of energy. Unfortunately he is heartworm positive and MUST be kept on heartworm preventative because of this he is special needs. He needs to go to a home without kitties as he enjoys chasing them.

Click here to read more about Baxter! Maybe you know someone who can show this cute boy that there is life after the chain??

The One with Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-02T19:59:00.003-04:00

The One from Oz

2011-10-31T11:32:00.003-04:00

Love,

Dorothy, Tin Girl, Toto and Lion

The One with Friendly Friday

2011-10-28T17:58:00.000-04:00

Have you all heard about the wonderful, amazing, GENEROUS event Mayzie and Brudder Ranger are holding?

Check out their post to read all about it. Five winners will win $100 green papers for the animal charity of your choice!

After that, my bestest boy Sarge also has a fun event!

Read all about it on his bloggie here!

And now... for Khrya... check out our forecast!!! 4-6"!!!!

The One with the Puzzler

2011-10-26T19:42:00.000-04:00

I have a sincere question. Mom and I cannot fathom this and would love to hear another prospective. Why would you have an outside dog, who is desperate for affection, and then decide you want two more outside dogs who seem to stay in a kennel? Please help me understand.

Papa said that maybe they are puppy-sitting... for a few weeks. I'm hanging on to that thread of hope. It could be a lot worse, I suppose.

The One for Lilac

2011-10-25T17:07:00.004-04:00

Blogville is a little dimmer.

We will miss you, Lilac...
until we meet again!

The One with Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-19T07:33:00.000-04:00

TEN is just a number.

Click play arrow to view video.

The One with the Phoenix Update

2011-10-17T15:25:00.000-04:00

Thank you all so much for the good vibes you sent to Phoenix! I know there are a lot of us out there needing some extra good thoughts and prayers lately so we REALLY appreciate you fitting Phoeny into the long list.

It HELPED!

She's doing much better today. After laying on the couch (unless mom moved her) all day Saturday, with some breathing issues (fever maybe?) and no appetite, she started to move around a little yesterday. She had some digestive issues and was very lethargic but we all took good care of her. Papa even served her chicken broth in a tiny bowl on the couch.

"Got your back."

Thank you all for thinking of her. Blogville furends are the BEST!

The One with the Power of the Paw

2011-10-15T17:57:00.003-04:00

Little Phoenix is not feeling very well. Can we enact the Blogville Power of the Paw?

The One with the PJs

2011-10-15T10:35:00.005-04:00

Remember when my bestest boy Sarge sent Nico a pressie?

Well.... he loves his "Sleep Tight" PJs!!!

THANK YOU, SARGE AND SARGE'S MOM!!!
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Stay tuned for some special blanket pictures!

The One for Ginger

2011-10-08T09:15:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday, Ginger!
We miss you lots!

Mom found some old rolls of film (that stuff two-leggers used before digital cameras) and had them developed. Imagine her surprise when one whole roll was devoted to pictures of a young Ginger and puppy Cali. What a trip down memory lane!

The One with the Monkeys

2011-10-07T10:00:00.006-04:00

Am I the luckiest girl or what?! Things have been B-U-S-Y at my house since about... oh.. July 5th! And I've been very slow with my posts and my comments!! I've been worried that my bestest boy Sarge would forget all about me. Not only does he send me nice messages to remind me he's thinking of me but he sent me this PERFECT bandana!!!

Are you jealous, Phoenix?

Being silly!

He even remembered my nickname is Monkey. ::sigh::

Did you hear some strange things in the background??

You remember Wally & Stella, right?

And that whirring sound? That was an ultralight. Click to biggify. Looks like ET!!

The One for Safety Week - Part 3

2011-10-06T10:00:00.003-04:00

At the end of the month, you might see a scene like this:

Yep! Mini-two-leggers will hit the pavement running in search of two-legger yummies! Some of us, me included!, are a little unsettled by these tiny creatures ringing the doorbell hopped up on sugar dressed in odd outfits shouting various rhymes in exchange for candy.

We cannot stress enough how important it is to keep us dogs and cats safely inside on Halloween. AND to be certain we cannot scoot out the door into a crowd of unfamiliar two-leggers or into the street! It's a lot like the 4th of July in that respect!

And for those like me and (probably) Sarge, who don't get trick-or-treaters visiting, this is always a nice time to relax and plead with your two-leggers for an extra bone or two in exchange for a trick!

Here is the advice from the ASPCA:

All but the most social dogs and cats should be kept in a separate room away from the front door during peak trick-or-treating hours. Too many strangers can be scary and stressful for pets.
When opening the door for trick-or-treaters, take care that your cat or dog doesn't dart outside.
IDs, please! Always make sure your dog or cat has proper identification. If for any reason your pet escapes and becomes lost, a collar and tags and/or a microchip can be a lifesaver, increaing the chances that he or she will be returned to you.

Yesterday's post was all about trick-or-treating and Tuesday featured costume safety. (I have a super special post tomorrow for Friendly Friday... my bestest boy Sarge sent me a PAWSOME pressie!)

Don't forget to check out the other Safety Week events!

Deputy Bert has a Search & Rescue post up every day!

Clerk Mona has a slideshow up on 10-1-11 & poison plant safety on 10-2-11!

Road Dogs have transport options on 9-14-11(limos), 9-22-11 (buses) and 10-1-11 (cats)!

Chief Investigator Pip posted on identity theft on 10-3-11!

Fire Chief Bucky posted his fire equipment on 10-1-11 & the PARADE is 10-7-11!

Nurse Maggie Mae posted about first aid kits on 10-1-11!

My Bestest Boy Sarge posted traffic safety on 10-1-11 & 10-3-11 and has one more set for 10-5-11!

The One for Safety Week - Part 2

2011-10-05T10:00:00.000-04:00

Halloween is a super fun time for mini-two-leggers! For one thing, they often come home with LOTS of candy!! And many two-leggers keep bowls of candy on hand for mini-two-leggers that come to visit. It's especially important that we dogs and cats remember that most two-legger candy is not safe for us to consume, especially chocolate. Make sure you stick to the treats your two-legger gives you that are four-legger safe!!
And I should also mention that we should be careful not to over do it with the noms! Did I ever tell you about the time I had to go to the emergency vet?

When I was just a wee pup, I was crated when left unsupervised. And rightly so! You see, one afternoon, papa was getting ready for a work trip and noticing this, I settled down in my crate. Since I was such a good, quiet girl, he forgot to close the crate door. Well, now free to explore and being the brainy one, I knew that I could slip through the banister (since the baby gate was closed), hop to the step and trot on downstairs to where mom keeps the food. I :: ahem :: overindulged. I then dragged myself back up the stairs and squeezed my swollen belly through the railing as mom came home from work. She soon discovered my bulging, painful stomach and panicked! (Side note: All turned out well after a night at the hospital. And mom puppy-proofed her food storage system since she realized the baby gate is not sufficient with me around the house!)

So, from personal experience, make sure you don't eat too much this Halloween!!

Here is the advice from the ASPCA:

No tricks, no treats: That bowl of candy is for trick-or-treaters, not for Scruffy and Fluffy. Chocolate in all forms—especially dark or baking chocolate—can be very dangerous for dogs and cats. Candies containing the artificial sweetener xylitol can also cause problems. If you do suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, please call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

Tune in tomorrow for tips on what to expect if you decide to stay home and hand out the treats instead! Yesterday's post was all about costume safety. (And I have a super special post on Friendly Friday... my bestest boy Sarge sent me a PAWSOME pressie!)

Don't forget to check out the other Safety Week events!

Deputy Bert has a Search & Rescue post up every day!

Clerk Mona has a slideshow up on 10-1-11 & poison plant safety on 10-2-11!

Road Dogs have transport options on 9-14-11(limos), 9-22-11 (buses) and 10-1-11 (cats)!

Chief Investigator Pip posted on identity theft on 10-3-11!

Fire Chief Bucky posted his fire equipment on 10-1-11 & the PARADE is 10-7-11!

Nurse Maggie Mae posted about first aid kits on 10-1-11!

My Bestest Boy Sarge posted traffic safety on 10-1-11 & 10-3-11 and has one more set for 10-5-11!

The One for Safety Week

2011-10-04T12:00:00.002-04:00

My first post for safety week is all about: COSTUME SAFETY!

It is very important that you first choose a costume that YOU like.

It's also very important that your two-leggers don't leave you unattended. Do you see ghostly Cali in that picture? She had a very hard time seeing out of those tiny holes! And devilish Phoenix? There were all kinds of strings she could get tangled in as she walked! And superhero me? Well, without mom there to supervise me, I could have flown away!!--- Oh, wait. Mom just said it was only make believe. But you get the idea!

It's also important that our two-leggers make sure we don't seem scared in our festive costumes. Remember the PAWm dress incident?

I was very much brave! If you look behind me, mom KNEW my sisters would be a little nervous in such an elaborate princess dress. And rightly so! I was TRAPPED in it!! Mom had to very careful ease me out of the dress bit by bit! It was as if I was sewn into it like Marilyn Monroe! A less brave, trusting pup might have been too nervous for such a precise maneuver and got herself even more trapped! Maybe the moral of this story is less about our two-leggers making sure we're not skeered in our costumes and more about getting us the right size. BOL!

Please remember these notes from the ASPCA:

Dress-up can be a big mess-up for some pets. Please don't put your dog or cat in a costume UNLESS you know he or she loves it (yup, a few pets are real hams!). For pets who prefer their “birthday suits,” however, wearing a costume may cause undue stress.
If you do dress up your pet, make sure the costume isn't annoying or unsafe. It should not constrict the animal's movement or hearing, or impede his ability to breathe, bark or meow. Also, be sure to try on costumes before the big night. If your pet seems distressed, allergic or shows abnormal behavior, consider letting him go au naturale or donning a festive bandana.
Take a closer look at your pet’s costume and make sure it does not have small, dangling or easily chewed-off pieces that he could choke on. Also, ill-fitting outfits can get twisted on external objects or your pet, leading to injury.

Tune in tomorrow for tips on trick-or-treating and on Thursday for tips on what to expect if you decide to stay home and hand out the treats instead! (And I have a super special post on Friendly Friday... my bestest boy Sarge sent me a PAWSOME pressie!)

Don't forget to check out the other Safety Week events!

Deputy Bert has a Search & Rescue post up every day!

Clerk Mona has a slideshow up on 10-1-11 & poison plant safety on 10-2-11!

Road Dogs have transport options on 9-14-11(limos), 9-22-11 (buses) and 10-1-11 (cats)!

Chief Investigator Pip posted on identity theft on 10-3-11!

Fire Chief Bucky posted his fire equipment on 10-1-11 & the PARADE is 10-7-11!

Nurse Maggie Mae posted about first aid kits on 10-1-11!

My Bestest Boy Sarge posted traffic safety on 10-1-11 & 10-3-11 and has one more set for 10-5-11!

The One with Almost Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-28T20:44:00.004-04:00

I received some disturbing news today. Mom was over to see my good friend Lisa, who you may remember is an amazing wildlife rehabilitator, and.. well... I think this horrifying picture speaks for itself.

The One Where I Catch Up

2011-09-27T22:19:00.002-04:00

Things are starting to get into a routine around here so I spent some time tonight catching up on all of your blogs. I commented here and there but I was so far behind I didn't get a chance to comment on all of them.

There were some great posts - flowers from Sarge, a birthday for Asta... but also some sad posts.

Godspeed brave Miss Reggie...

Mayzie's brother Ripley...

Pip's dear furend Buddy...

Pip's brother Sweet Pea...

And sweet Twix...

I often find something mom once read to us comforting,
"If you are true to the love of one you cherished through the many joy-filled years, you may find that a soul - a bit smaller in size than your own - seems to walk with you, at times, during the lonely days to come. And at moments when you least expect anything out of the ordinary to happen, you may feel something brush against your leg - very, very lightly."

The One After the Spa

2011-09-22T18:25:00.002-04:00

Cali had an appointment at the spa this morning. She isn't a fan of baths or pawdicures but she certainly LOVES visiting two-leggers! And the love having her spend the day with them. But best of all? We are SO happy when she gets home! She brings such interesting smells with her!

The One with the Brazen Nemesis

2011-09-20T19:44:00.003-04:00

Can you BELIEVE this guy???

He's burying MY chestnuts on MY deck in MY rosemary pot!!!!!

The One with the Thief

2011-09-18T16:47:00.001-04:00

Well, my anipals, this post is about little Phoenix aka: Nico's bestest friend...

She has a terrible habit of stealing his binkies!!

Have you see any of these?
She has surprised all of us with how sweet and gentle she is around our little guy. But she is always on the lookout for a rogue pacifier. She shreds them and mom worries about her ingesting the plastic!! I guess we'll have try a pacifier leash! Is there anything you like to take from your two-leggers that your not supposed to?

The One with Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-14T08:42:00.000-04:00

The One with Target Practice

2011-09-12T08:16:00.000-04:00

We live in a pretty rural area and we love it!! Though there is one tiny thing Phoenix and I aren't too crazy about.... periodically there are gun shots in the area. It is most common before hunting season but pretty much happens year-round. It reminds me of fireworks and I'm NOT a fan of fireworks.

So... we cuddle with mom when we hear the practice shots in the distance.

Photo courtesy of our SPY CAM!

Do any noises have you running to your two-leggers to cuddle?

The One Ten Years Later

2011-09-11T05:01:00.002-04:00

Let us never forget the lives lost on September 11, 2001
and remember to thank those who continue to
work to keep us safe and free.

Thank you, papa!!

And thank you to all of the search and rescue dogs.

Here's a link to an article I read in remembrance of the nearly 100 dogs who searched for survivors that fateful day. 12 of these heroes are still alive and featured in a series of portraits (not pictured here). Click here to read more.

The One to Hide a Dress

2011-09-09T19:51:00.000-04:00

Well, I got a message from the Arizona brigade that I need to get back on track with my blog. Mostly because the picture of me in my pawm dress in the previous post was upsetting to one of my readers (aka: my grandpa) so I need to push it down the list a bit. He said something to my mom about it bordering on abuse and that he was sending money so she could buy me an apology pizza!! Not a bad deal for me! A fun time at the dance AND free pizza! I guess I should explain that the dress... well... it wasn't exactly my size and mom had some trouble getting me out of it. I was a very patient girl, though a little confused. Mom gave me a big hug and lots of yummies after she freed me because she realized I will do ANYTHING for her if she asks me to. Even stay calm when trapped in a dress!

How's this photo instead??

It's me watching over my boy.

Or this one? We're waiting for our PIZZA!

The One Before Pawm

2011-09-03T05:37:00.003-04:00

I am so very much excited about the big PAWM! I've never been to a dance before and my bestest boy Sarge invited me!!!

How do I look??

Did you notice my sister's in the background looking ~~mortified~~ envious?

Now I am anxiously awaiting the big event. I'm keeping a watch out for Sarge!

The One Before Irene

2011-08-27T17:37:00.003-04:00

I hope everyone stays safe with this storm rolling through the east coast! We've been watching the weather from the comfy couch.

The One with the Quake

2011-08-23T21:25:00.000-04:00

Many of you have probably heard about our excitement today. We had an earthquake!! My boy's babysitter, Miss P, was here for the first time today and mom was just passing Nico over to her about to head out for an appointment when everything got shaky. It startled us all for sure! Cali, Phoenix and I did our best to growl and bark a bit to stop whoever was rattling the house. When mom said, "Umm.. I think we're having an earthquake," we all stood around in shock!

I hope everyone is safe!

Later Mom and Miss P were musing that dogs often have a sixth sense about these sorts of events but we... well... we were distracted.

(Notice I'm the most alert, as usual!!)

We've never experienced a quake before today. Have you?

The One with the B-A-T-H-S

2011-08-21T21:43:00.003-04:00

Someone is coming to see us on Tuesday! Okay, she's really coming to see Nico but she likes us too so I'm getting ready with all my best toys and fluffing my side of the sofa in case she wants to share. MOM has other ideas and says we all have to have b-a-t-h-s tomorrow. Please wish me luck. This is what she does to me...

The One for Cali

2011-08-18T15:27:00.004-04:00

Today is CALI'S birthday!!

Happy 10th, Cali Girl!! Mom keeps saying how we are growing up so fast but she looks to be the same size to me!

The One with Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-17T14:44:00.003-04:00

The One with the Great Furends

2011-08-16T21:36:00.002-04:00

I'm back!!! Thank you so much to everyone for checking in on me during my computer's sickies. I've been keeping busy with my mini-two-legger. He is so much fun! While I was away from blogging, I got not one but TWO boxes for Nico!

Sam and Pippen sent a BEAUTIFUL baby blanket to him. They commissioned their mom to MAKE this for him. Isn't it amazing?

We love the pattern!

And my bestest boy Sarge sent him pressies too!

He sent a super cute PJ set that says "RUFF NIGHT." And a fancy snow globe that you can put a picture inside!

I told mom I HAD to have the snow globe. I thought about putting Khyra's picture inside so that she always has snow but.... I had to go with my Sarge. Doesn't it look pawsome with his handsome face in there??
My two-leggers can't believe how generous and thoughtful my anipals are and send their very huge thanks to all of you! I can't wait to see you all at that Back to School Bash!!

The One with the Trouble

2011-07-23T16:40:00.003-04:00

I am writing with some technical news: my laptop monitor is dead! Mom let me use her work laptop to update my anipals so you know that I'm not MIA. We're on the road showing my mini-two-legger how to Airstream!! I'll post pictures when I have my computer back up and running. Mom's boring work laptop doesn't have a port for the camera card. Can you believe that?!? And I have some pawsome pictures because my bestest boy Sarge sent me a super cool box! I can't wait to show you!

How is everyone? I'm so behind on your blogs. It's tough staying on track when the monitor is asleep all the time!

The One with the Juice

2011-07-14T11:16:00.003-04:00

What a busy week we have had here! Mom convinced me I should click that dreaded "read all" button so I'm very sorry I'm falling behind! How are all of my anipals? Anything new going on in Blogville?

The weather here has been HOT and HUMID! So we've spent a lot of time just hanging out inside babysitting and visiting with family. It's been great!

But today is gorgeous out so mom has been letting us play outside a lot. I missed running free!!

Especially because I had to go to the V-E-T yesterday for my checkup. I have... "Fescue Face." Any guesses as to what that is?......

A fancy name for "allergic to fescue grass." So.. I'm back on the steroids for a couple of days. You thought I ran fast before? Now I'll be juiced up and you won't even see me pass you!!! I'll be so---- wait--- mom just told me again that's not what they're for - something about my itchies and getting them under control quickly.

WHOOOSH!

At least my day wasn't as bad as Phoenix's day! She had to go to the vet too AND had a bath in the morning thanks to the perfume. Second bath for her in a week! BOL!

The One with My Mini-Two-Legger

2011-07-07T12:13:00.002-04:00

He's HERE!!

MY mini-two-legger baby brother arrived on July 5 at 4:08 a.m.! He's so tiny - he's smaller than Phoenix! Nicolas "Nico" Michael weighs 6 pounds 8.5 ounces and is 19 3/4" long. We love him SO much already!

I'm being a very good big sister, thanks to all the advice from my anipals. Papa said I don't have to jump up to peek at him and then go find mom every time he makes a peep or a grunt but I'm just so excited he's here that I want to make sure he's okay! Cali and Phoenix are still getting their beauty sleep but I'm on duty 24/7! Though I have to admit... I'm pretty tired. I think I'll go take a nap while he's resting.

The One Where We Wait

2011-07-04T17:33:00.000-04:00

A happy Independence Day to all! The fireworks began here last night and I expect more to continue this evening. My heart goes out to my friends who are frightened by the loud, sudden racket. Please keep your animals safe inside!

Meanwhile, we're still waiting for my mini-two-legger to decide he's ready to meet us.

This reminds me of something VERY much important. Does anyone know how I can reach a two-legger named Holly T? She sent me a super nice pressie and I'm not sure how to thank her properly!

The One with Almost Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-29T06:29:00.001-04:00

Dear Mayor Frankie Furter,
One of your mom's creatures escaped and
seems to be spending the SUMMER
on my windowsill.
Doesn't he know it's not winter anymore?

PeeS - still no mini-two-legger! Though mom and papa are going to get a quick peek at him today to see if he's getting his things packed up to meet me yet. I'll post pictures if we get any!

The One with Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-22T17:47:00.002-04:00

The One for Hamlet and Rudi

2011-06-20T04:55:00.001-04:00

I'm a little late in posting this but I couldn't skip over this just because I'm tardy.

Some of you might know Kim over at Golden Pines. She is a wonderful two-legger who opens her heart and home to rescues and fosters, often forever fosters. You know how mom and I so very much admire those willing and able to help dogs in this way.

Sadly, after a wonderful 19 months with Kim and her family, Hamlet has crossed the bridge. I know he was sad to go but it was clear he was ready. And I just know he felt blessed to have the love of Kim, Carl and the Golden Pines family during the sunset of his sweet and noble life.

Until we meet again, we'll miss you, Hamlet!!

If you can, please send healing thoughts for Rudi. After saying goodbye to Hamlet just the day before, Rudi was diagnosed with Hemangiosarcoma. This has all been quite much for the Golden Pines family in such a short time and I'm sure our crossed paws and healing vibes would be much appreciated.

RUDI
(I borrowed these pictures from Kim's blog.)

The One on Papa's Day

2011-06-19T09:35:00.004-04:00

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!Don't forget to give your papa an extra hug today!

The One with the Kitty

2011-06-17T07:09:00.001-04:00

My friend Lisa sent this to me. Have you seen it??
The music makes me BOL!

Everyone ready for the big weekend??

The One with the Visitors

2011-06-16T08:53:00.001-04:00

So a few nights ago we had a visitor on our DECK! Mom tried to grab the camera subtly without us noticing what was happening but she was too slow so here's a sketch:

He was probably looking for food papa said. But we now keep our garbage locked up in the garage because not too long ago, we had one of these come visit and find our garbage.

Oh wait... she lives here. One of THESE came by...

Picture ~~stolen from~~ courtesy of Lisa's Sassy Cat Hill blog.
Thanks, Lisa!!

Incidentally, the trash has been stored under our deck for about 9 years without an incident but they're on to us now! AND... mom hasn't been letting us out after dark now. Boo!!!!

Do you get any interesting visitors? I know Pip, Sarge and Remington do!!

The One with Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-15T08:27:00.000-04:00

It's taking over Blogville!!

The One with the Update

2011-06-14T08:59:00.006-04:00

Things have been busy here as we get ready for my mini-two-legger to arrive!! AND.. you're NOT going to believe this!!!... we were ABANDONED this weekend. Papa and mom got in the car Saturday morning and we figured they were going shopping to buy us yummies... and didn't come back until SUNDAY afternoon!!!

Cali figured something was up when Stacey came to take care of us Saturday afternoon.

She was SURE they would be coming home with her baby brother.

But no. According to the pictures on mom's camera, they went to visit that little guy. She promised NEXT time they leave us, they'll be back with our mini-two-legger. Cali's been waiting in the baby's nursery.

The One with Friendly Friday

2011-06-03T07:12:00.002-04:00

You will not believe what came in the mail yesterday!!! You know Morgan, Tsar and the Porties, right? (If not, you should run right over and meet them. They are so much fun! I can't be certain but I bet watermelon treats are soon in their future and you HAVE to see those pictures.)

Their mom, Sue, is known for being not only thoughtful but amazingly creative! Last October, we were one of the winners of their 500th post contest and we got a HUGE box of toys! Mom even got a pressie in that box: a bracelet that she wears all the time!! Wasn't that nice of them?

Well, yesterday we got a box with another gift from the Porties!

A handmade blanket for my mini-two-legger! This picture doesn't do it justice - it's beautiful!!! I have to say, the box was most exciting to me. It smelled amazing!!!

THANK YOU Morgan, Tsar, Samba, Fudge, Tess, Shy, Lola, Bailey, Noah and Norma Jean!! And a big thank you to Sue and Rob!!!! Hi to Holly & Cloud!!

The One with the Heat Wave

2011-06-02T07:52:00.001-04:00

With this heat wave we've been having, mom has us on a very limited outdoor schedule. I guess I don't mind really. After some brief, half-hearted running around, we're pretty much ready to get back inside to the air conditioning!!

Click play arrow to view video.

I hope all my anipals are staying cool!!

The One After the Weekend

2011-06-01T10:08:00.000-04:00

We had great fun with Aunt Katie over the weekend! She certainly brought the heat to us from Arizona! Let's just say, the two-leggers were SWIMMING in the pool in late May without the heater... and by yesterday the water temperature was about 90!! Mom kept saying it was like a bath, which did not sway me into wanting to join the hi jinx at all!

Regardless, we love when Aunt Katie visits. Hot OR cold. And it makes the two leggers silly too...

Look how big mom is getting! We're hoping the mini two legger arrives on June 19. That's less than three weeks away! He's not due until July 3 but papa was born on Mother's Day so mom thinks a Father's Day birthday would be perfect! Paws crossed!

We missed a lot this weekend: Peeps on Parade, Pip's Superhero Party... AND Frankie's BARKDAY!!! Our beloved mayor turned FIVE! Hope it was a great day, Frankie!!!

The One with the Mistake

2011-05-25T08:05:00.002-04:00

So... today is Wednesday. Not yesterday, as I posted. Whoops! The first week mom is exclusively working remotely and I just assumed since she was home... it must be her Wednesday telecommuting day! Thanks for humoring my almost-Wednesday-nearly-wordless-Tuesday post.

I think I was partly excited for Wednesday to arrive because..... ::drum roll::..... my AUNT KATIE arrives tonight for a visit!!!! Yahoo!

Aunt Katie and me high-fiving

during a basketball game when I was just a puppy.
(Look at the poofy tail Cali had back then!!!)

The One with Nearly Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-24T07:24:00.001-04:00

Do you see what I see? Click to biggify!

Also... did you hear about the latest Blogville arrest? Marvin "Pouch Cheeks" Oakly (that name just makes me BOL!) is awaiting trial! I raced home from our trip to help Sarge, our chief of police, sniff out the suspect! Check out Sarge's post!

And...

In light of the tornado in Joplin, Tank had a very timely post. Check it out.

The One After the Babymoon

2011-05-22T21:48:00.001-04:00

We're BACK!!! We had a fantastical time at the beach last week and then with Airstream buddies this weekend. Mom said she'll post a link to photos on her blog by tomorrow.

But I have to tell you... we saw a MR. Puddles, can you imagine?!

AND... we found a town named after our very own REMINGTON!

AND mom's not driving in to work until the fall so I should have lots more time to stay in touch with my furends.

Speaking of which, I'm slowing making my way to everyone's bloggie this week. In the meantime... what did I miss???

The One After 87 Days

2011-05-17T16:03:00.006-04:00

Does anyone remember me? It's me...

ZONA

I took my two leggers and sisters to the beach for my papa's barkday! We have been having SO much fun but I've been sad that I haven't been able to get any time on the laptop to check in with my furends! I took a peek at the bloggies today, though I wasn't able to comment too much.

You won't believe what the two leggers made me do on the drive here... they cramped my space! Poor Cali now has a "cool mat" bed on the floor (which she is crazy enough to love) and I was crunched into... are you ready for this?... ONE side of the bench seat! Can you believe that? Normally I take up about 2/3 of the seat and Cali is squished. This time Cali had the entire floor space - which is A LOT - and I was squished. They thought it would be a good idea to put the car seat in the truck so that we get used to sharing the back seat of the truck. Okay... so I wasn't completely squished but... they didn't think I'd figure out how to share when the mini-two legger gets here?

After that embarrassment the trip progressed wonderfully! The weather has been great and the beach is tons of fun this time of year since it's not too hot and not loaded with two leggers.

I hope everyone is having a great week! I'll try to check in more frequently! I'll have more pictures near the end of the trip! Mom said I can post those on the drive home. Yahoo!

The One with All the Killing

2011-05-09T20:47:00.000-04:00

That title got your attention, didn't it?!

So you know how Shelby got a squirrel last week, right?

And how Puddles bagged a chipmunk last Tuesday?

AND then Puddles she moved up in size and got a squirrel today?

Well... tonight... Phoenix.... I can barely paw this.... got a rabbit. Doxies are taking over the world. We didn't actually SEE her catch the rabbit so Phoenix is maintaining that she FOUND it that way. But mom is pretty sure that's not how it happened.

Regardless, mom shrieked (why do they always shriek?) and told Miss Phoenix to "drop it" and then mom pretended everything was fine as soon as she let what was left fall to the grass. (Pretend is the key word there. I could tell she was completely grossed out.)

Phoenix followed us all back to the house but about half way laid down in the grass - belly up. Mom tried to coax her to finish walking but eventually had to carry her back into the house. And then ended up giving us all treats! (I think she felt badly about shrieking.)

She refused to take any pictures. Two-leggers are weird.

Now Phoeny is resting and of course she took a picture of that - like we don't have 87 million of those.

The One with Friendly Friday

2011-05-06T07:40:00.003-04:00

As many of you know, our pal Pip has been trying to sell his house... it's time to spread the word and send up those good vibes!! We won't mention the raccoons that visit him sometimes.... or that Puddles parks her Pinto out front when she's on a kool-aid bender.

Speaking of Pip, don't forget to get your superhero outfits ready for his big Blogoversary pawty on May 30!

AND have you heard about the GREAT idea my best boy Sarge had??

It's only the most fantastical event AND you can win a super cool prize! It's called....

Isn't that a cool logo he made? Click here to see how it works! I think I'm going to start mine now and set it to post on Sunday, May 29. It will work out perfectly because I will be busy that weekend.... do you know why??? MY AUNT KATIE IS COMING TO VISIT US IN 22 DAYS!!! YAHOO!!!!!

La Una con Cinco de Mayo

2011-05-05T07:37:00.001-04:00

Happy Cinco de Mayo, everyone! This is widely celebrated day in Arizona but here on the humid coast - not as much. Two-leggers in these parts will partake in a margarita or two to celebrate the day! Side note: my mom doesn't need much coaxing to order a margarita - Cinco de Mayo or otherwise! Though this year... she has to abstain - maybe one of your mom's could have one for her instead?

The One with Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-04T10:30:00.000-04:00

Phoenix on babysitting duty.

The One Where We're Ready

2011-05-03T20:27:00.001-04:00

So this was us waiting for mom to hurry it up so we could go meet dad at the office where he had the truck and Airstream waiting for us. She took foooorrrreeevvver to get ready.

When she finally decided it was time (about 87 hours after we jumped in the car), we each got in our seats and made the trek to papa's office. The rally was lots of fun!

Though rallying does make me sleepy!

It makes us all a little sleepy! (See HER hogging my space again?!)

I caught catnaps wherever I could!

The blurry mini-two-legger is Grayson - he...is....ADORABLE!

We got to meet this cute little guy this trip! His name is Riley.

This is his mom, Peg. She's pretty fun too!

Tom, one of our two-legger friends, made this video one night.

The One Where Mom is PROUD

2011-05-02T22:08:00.000-04:00

This weekend we went to the first Airstream rally of the season. It was lots of fun! There were about 20 rigs there. My mom and papa were SO proud of me. It's no secret that I'm cautious around new two-leggers but this trip I was warming up to EVERYONE! I was loving the attention. Last season I started to get more comfortable with women but still felt anxious around men. This weekend I was enjoying everyone's company! I think I even saw mom well up with tears once or twice.

I bet some of you can relate!

I'll post some pictures but in the meantime, check out my first experience with agility! They had a doggie park at the campground. Cali was in agility when she was younger but this was the first time I saw any of these things. I don't completely get the point but it sure made papa happy! Phoenix was not exactly on board with these games. BOL!

Click play arrow to view video.

The One with Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-27T13:33:00.000-04:00

"Is she kidding me?"

The One Before Richie & Ronnii's Celebration

2011-04-22T09:03:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow is a big day in Blogville! It's Celebrate Life Day! Richie and Ronnii's barkday is tomorrow and Ronnii is having a big pawty to commemorate Richie's life and her barkday. Make sure you go visit!! Snacks and speeches are always welcome!

Don't forget to give a bark out to their Momma Tea. She is an AMAZING two-legger. She opens her heart and her home to forever foster pups and rescues to care for them for the time they have left with us. How many two-leggers are so selfless that they would take on older doggies with lots of health issues and make their remaining years so full of love and joy?? She is AMAZING!!! That's one of the reasons we love her! So make sure you go visit to Celebrate Life and wish Ronnii a happy barkday and celebrate Richie!

The One with the Pressies!!

2011-04-21T19:32:00.001-04:00

I got the biggest, most exciting box in the mail yesterday!!! Mom made me WAIT until today to open it. It sat on the table for HOURS taunting me. I was wishing I was like Puddles and could get on the table to take a peek but I'm a tiny bit bigger than she is so.... I was forced to wait.

FINALLY, today I got to see it up close! It was a box of barkday pressies from my bestest boy SARGE and Frankie Furter!!!

"CALI! Check out all of this wonderful smelling stuff!
It's wrapped so pretty!"

"Dibs!!!"

"Uhh... didn't you hear me say 'Dibs' two seconds ago??"

"Okay, you can play with my stuffie -
even though it's my most favoritest color!"

"But you can't touch my official COP gear!"
How cool is this stuff??

THANK YOU, SARGE AND FRANKIE!!!!!!!

The One with ALMOST Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-20T15:23:00.002-04:00

My two-legger friend, Lisa (aka: The Crazy Critter Lady), sent me this super important email!

Instructions for properly hugging a baby:

1. First, uh, find a baby.

2. Second, be sure that the object you found was indeed a baby, by employing classic sniffing techniques.

3. Next, you will need to flatten the baby before actually beginning the hugging process.

4. The 'paw slide' = Simply slide paws around baby & prepare for possible close-up.

5. Finally, if a camera is present, you will need to execute the difficult and patented 'hug, smile, and lean' so as to achieve the best photo quality.

Coincidentally, there's an article in the current novadog magazine, which arrived today, titled: Baby Bump - Preparing your dog for the new addition. I bet they tell two-leggers how to get the bestest photos like this!

The One for Richie

2011-04-18T13:52:00.003-04:00

We just learned that our dear friend Richie has crossed the bridge. Before heading over to read his post, make sure you have a couple boxes of tissues ready.

Richie is now feeling like a puppy again and running with Molly Popples. I'm sure Ginger will be looking for them to enjoy a nice round of zoomies.

Richie, you've been a great furend and I promise we'll watch over Ronnii, Momma Tea and the Popster! Until we meet again....

The One where I Turn SIX

2011-04-16T08:33:00.001-04:00

It's my BARKDAY!! So far we're snuggled on the couch with mom while the rain pours down outside. Waiting for papa to rise and shine. It's PAWTY day!!!

I have some special treats waiting for me and a celebration tonight. I can't wait!!

For my barkday story, click here. Warning: even more pictures of a super tiny ME are all over the post!!

Hope everyone has a great Saturday!

Gotcha Day

Look at that puppy fuzz!Getting bigger... my ears are way ahead of my body. Hehe...

Hmm... still growing faster that of my body.

Oh! How did this get in here?
Post-whowhoectomy - how embarrassing!!

The One After Delaware

2011-04-13T21:35:00.001-04:00

I know, I know... it's been a LONG time since I've posted. And it gets worse... I'm not really posting tonight either! Just checking in to see how all my pals are doing!! How is everyone??

Things here are boring while mom works frantically to finish up a work project... TOMORROW!

So in the meantime, a quick recap:

Goats are not in our immediate future. To console the us, the two-leggers took us to Delaware to Airstream with friends. Click here to view our photos! It was SO much fun!!!

Also... we got the final bit of GREAT news from the vet's office! A couple of weeks ago we got the all clear on Cali's glucose level, my mystery bump (an embarrassing story really - let's just say it involved an unbehaved hair or two and something about a glorified pimple) and Phoenix's lump (a lipoma). This weekend Cali rounded out the scary lumps with one of her own. It's about tennis ball sized near her armpit but it was confirmed yesterday that it is another benign lipoma! Great news, right??

The One with the Goats

2011-04-02T11:27:00.000-04:00

Has anyone noticed the countdown on the sidebar? We are now in the double digits! It won't be long now before my mini-two-legger arrives!! Mom and papa went for a special ultrasound a couple of days ago. I wasn't allowed to go.

Mom has a bunch... I mean A BUNCH... of photos on her blog but take a look at my little brother!

Adding to the excitement, before he arrives, we have two new additions expected! In a couple of weeks, these two friends will be joining our crazy crew! They are Nigerian Dwarf goats. One just turned four and the other is her daughter, who will turn one in June.

Momma Goat
Baby Goat

The One with Friendly Friday

2011-04-01T18:20:00.004-04:00

Today is a very special !

Everyone knows Twix and Taffy right? Their grandma is recovering from some nasties and Mayor Furter and Puddles started a card shower for her! Maybe this weekend you could convince your two leggers to drop a card in the mail to help lift her spirits?

Patricia Branham
% Grandview Animal Hosp.
1006 Main St.
Grandview, Mo 64030

AND today is my very special Aunt Katie's BIRTHDAY!!!!

GLUTEN FREE CAKE!

Aunt Katie, I wish we could all be there to celebrate with you! Mom promised I could throw you a belated birthday party when you come visit... next month, RIGHT?!?

We love you!

Click here to read my very first
birthday post to Aunt Katie.

The One after the Office Day

2011-03-27T21:34:00.002-04:00

It has been a BUSY few days!!!

First, on Thursday, mom and Cali took papa to work. Cali got to spend the day at mom's office. School is closed until Tuesday so she had the run of the building!

"We're here!!!"

Heading up to mom's office...

Looking out one of mom's windows at the NEMESIS tree!

After breakfast in mom's office, they went out for a walk and then checked out the lower level of Lloyd House, where mom's office is.

The kitchen! The building used to be the dormitory. This is where they cooked meals... now it's used for special events and sandwich making for the homeless! Great smells in here!

Cali LOVED the floor to ceiling windows.

SHE'S HOME!!!!!!!!

I think I had more fun when I got to go last time.

Click play arrow to view video.

THEN... on FRIDAY... it was my bestest boy Sarge's BARKDAY! He turned FIVE! Since I'm so far behind on my posts, I'm sure everyone has already visited him but if not run over and check out his post! His barkday weekend has been a working weekend. Have you heard the latest on the Blogville Case?? Check it out on his blog... we're getting close to a resolution. I hope Mayor Futer's friend Slick.

Speaking of Frankie... I think we need his help! It looks like we have a mole problem!!

Papa spent time evening out the piles and we inspected his work when he was finished, as usual.

The One with Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-23T09:00:00.001-04:00

Monkey Love

The One where Ducks are Mean

2011-03-20T20:38:00.002-04:00

First, a great big thank you to everyone. Mom is feeling much more centered today after getting some sleep and giving us all extra loving! We'll keep monitoring our lumps and bumps and take it day by day. Hopefully by my 6th birthday in a few weeks, my crazy bump will have disappeared! We'll keep an eye on Phoenix and reconsider whether or not her fatty deposit needs any attention. And Cali, well, the bump on her eyeball had some changes overnight but mom's hoping it's just irritated. She read about eye issues of this sort working out on their own so... we're much more upbeat today. Thank you ALL for the supportive comments. (I think mom was just overtired, if you ask me! She didn't get a nap yesterday. I don't know how two-leggers function without napping during the day!)

This morning I woke mom up by whining and crying my little heart out. She jumped up thinking I had an upset tummy and raced outside with me... to realize I was crying because I KNEW Scruffy, one of the neighborhood dogs, was visiting. She keeps asking me how I knew he was out by the garage from all the way in the back bedroom. Hehe.. I can't give up those kinds of secrets, mom! He's so small he can slip under the driveway gate to come visit us. (Phoenix is even a little smaller, but doesn't realize she can fit through there. Papa will probably have to put a wire across there if she notices that is how Scruffy is getting in and out!)

Later today, the boys were enjoying a swim....

Then papa let them out to snack on the grass. Not a big deal! Normally Phoenix is inside when this happens but she did fine. She was curious but Cali and I really couldn't care less about the ducks unless they're handing out food. However, today those boys were FEISTY! They were chasing US around! They would poke us in the butts too! Can you imagine? Don't they know we could EAT them? (And technically, Cali does dine on duck everyday!)

This video isn't for the faint of heart. And mom says I need a "do not try this at home" disclaimer. We've had these duckies for about 18 months now. Can you believe it? Obviously, they know we won't hurt them. They don't hurt us either. Poking each other is how they play other so I guess they want to play with us too... but I don't understand that kind of game. Mom gets nervous every time we interact... mostly with Phoenix. BOL Something about "instinct" and boring stuff like that. But we pretty much just run from them. If you'll notice - WALLY is the instigator most of the time! (I don't know why the first video is shrunken. My assistant must be saving it wrong. And don't you love how mom thinks Phoenix will understand what "encourage" means?)

Click play arrow to view video.

Click play arrow to view video.

Finally, I want to wish MáMá a very much happy birthday!!!! We wish we could celebrate with you!! ♥ ♥ ♥

The One after the Checkup

2011-03-19T20:47:00.006-04:00

What a long day we have had! Lots of entertaining! The Crazy Cat Lady and Mr. C stopped by AND we also got a visit from Dr. Mitchell. She brought her daughter and another little friend to visit too! While papa entertained the mini two-leggers, Dr. M and mom gave us each exams.

This is when I would suggest taking a break to potty and get a snack. This is a WORDY post!!!

I wasn't due for any vaccines but we talked about my leg trouble and a strange bump mom found this morning. As suspected, at some point I injured my cruciate ligament in my back right knee. Probably from my "fancy run at high speed and spin around to stop and wait for my sisters to catch up" move! That knee is thicker than the other knee so she's sure that's what's causing me to limp now and then - stiffness due to arthritis that has set in from a prior injury. It's not torn so no intervention is needed but I will get two extra supplements added to my diet. I was SO happy to hear that running and exercise is recommended to keep me fit and keep my knees strong. So that was good news! But mom has to make sure I don't overdo it or start favoring my other knee and tear that ligament... blah blah blah... All I heard was I can still run and play! I also heard my teethies are due for a cleaning. Mom has been dreading this. She hates the thought of anesthesia for any of us and especially hates the thought of my separation issues. They have a plan worked out for that piece. But the schedule is moved up because of the suspicious lump on my leg. We're hopeful that it's an insect bite of some kind that will go away on its own but if not, it has to come off. Paws crossed! They barely even talked about my allergies but I have a new supplement for that too. ::sigh::

Phoenix was next. She needed a vaccine or two AND they took some of her bloods for testing. She did not enjoy any of that. Mom also asked about her knobby neck. It's just a fatty deposit and is most likely just fine but Dr. M said it should also come off when it's time for her dental in the fall. So mom is worried about that AND little Phoenix having to deal with anesthesia too. But she looked at lots and lots of pictures and realized this fatty deposit has been there for a long time without any changes so she's trying to relax a bit. (Not easy for my mom.)

2009
Lump is over her sternum,
just to the left of the leash clip.

2011, just a few weeks ago.

Notice the perfume

smeared all over her neck? BOL

Finally, it was Cali's turn. She had the same vaccines given and even more blood taken on account of her... advanced age. She was perfectly calm throughout. You wouldn't know she had a needle in her neck!! She, too, needs a dental cleaning, even though she JUST had one done last year!! Her tail is still looking umm.. rat-like after her infection last spring but seems fine. One of the blood tests will be a T-4 to check her thyroid. Her beautiful face has a pink spot that's curious looking but we were distracted by a strange non-ulcer...bump ON her eye under her eyelid. If it's still there in a few weeks when I go in for my yet to be scheduled dental cleaning, she'll come with me so Dr. M can take a closer look and mom will remind her to look at Cali's pink spot.

Needless to say, mom's a little overwhelmed - probably just overtired - no nap today! We're going to say extra prayers that my lump and Cali's eye bump go away on their own. Then mom only has to worry about routine dental cleanings... and Phoenix's umm.. fattiness. Hehe..

The One with Friendly Friday

2011-03-18T14:57:00.000-04:00

GUESS WHAT?! To make up for being SO busy these past few weeks and to celebrate the first official day of SPRING BREAK... my mom, my beloved (today) blogging assistant, ordered PIZZA for us!! Meatless, of course.

Now don't tell my papa because he can't have pizza anymore --- something about gluten. I don't know what gluten is but if it's in pizza I love gluten. Aunt Katie can't have gluten either. There's a pizza place here that has gluten-free pizza. I offered to taste test it for papa and Aunt Katie. Wasn't that generous of me??

Don't forget to stop over and wish my furend Riley a happy barkday! She's TWO today!!

I borrowed this picture from her blog
(hope she doesn't mind)
so you could see how cute she looks
on her barkday!!

The One with the Want Ad

2011-03-15T18:28:00.002-04:00

Miss Puddles had a great idea--- oh, stop, she has great ideas ALL the time! I tried to borrow a foto but her blog caught me red-pawed so you'll have to click here to see one of her fantastical ideas. I'll wait until you get back.....

....
....

FINALLY you're back. Her blog is chock full of interesting projects, isn't it? I especially enjoy her lessons about the umm... trash can. ANYWAY, Puddles suggested that it might be time for me to get a new blogging secretary. It's no secret that my current assistant is not up to par lately.

So, I hearby announce an opening: Zona's Blog Secretary.

Applications are now being accepted. So are bribes. I like beer. Sam Adams, especially. I also like pizza. My pizza source has been slacking lately too. (Yes, that means you Grandpapa Michael!!) Oh, wait.... stop the presses... my soon to be former assistant is telling me that Blogville Deputies shouldn't take bribes??

Let's call them gifts.

The One with SPRING

2011-03-14T21:34:00.005-04:00

SPRING IS COMING!!!!!!

The One with the Police Report

2011-03-08T20:29:00.000-05:00

Blogville Police Department

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

The evening of our Blogville Banquet to honor the Big Race participants and coaches, a call came in reporting that there was a break in at the mayor’s house.

There was very much broken glass and Mayor Furter’s TOY ROOM was ransacked!

Many prized stuffies were taken.

File Photo #10

Most noteably TRICK is missing!

File Photo #4

A few empty beer cans were left near the entrance to the home and there were Cheetos scattered throughout the residence.

Evidence Photo #128

Evidence Photo #87

Anyone with information about this unprecedented crime in our very own Blogville, is urged to contact SARGE. Our devoted Chief of Police will be interviewing this mysterious caller and is available to talk with any of our residents with information.

The One After Almost a WEEK

2011-03-01T20:34:00.001-05:00

Umm.. so yeah... I'm still annoyed with mom. She works A-L-L T-H-E T-I-M-E in February and into March. She keeps telling me we're almost through the worst of it though so MAYBE just MAYBE I'll get back to a regular blogging schedule. I miss my furends!!

She let me come online real quick tonight because my mini two-legger brother was tumbling and kicking her so much she finally got the hint that work time is over! I'm training him already!

AND she let me take a break from snoopervising her to go to the banquet this weekend. That was a great escape from this snooze-fest here. Did you see my boy Sarge on the drums??

That was so exciting! I had no idea the band was so good! Look at Asta rocking out!

Not much going on here. We've had some crazy weather but it's warming up now. I'm sad the snow is gone but that means much more time outside! I do like that! I hope everyone is enjoying the week!

The One with Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-22T21:35:00.001-05:00

Well... wordless if you don't count Wally & Stella!!

Click play arrow to view video.

The One with the Mural

2011-02-18T19:54:00.009-05:00

This is a very special!!! We met a great, new friend a couple of weeks ago. And you KNOW how hard it is for me to make new two-legger friends!!! Mom and papa were so proud of me. I warmed up to her instantly!

She came by again on Tuesday and stayed the whole day. In fact, she came every day this week. I can see why Cali likes company so much. Michele was lots of fun and made my two-leggers laugh and smile. It was kind of weird though because mom and papa spent an inordinate amount of time grinning like idiots at the wall. I finally took a closer look and realized that Michele was painting an AMAZING mural on the nursery wall!

The pictures don't do it justice! The greens are amazing and mom's camera just didn't capture it! I'll make her try again in the morning with better light.

Click on photos to biggify.

The bestest part?!?

Wait... I should clarify... THIS is the bestest part:

Papa, of course, loves the Airstreams the most, I think.

This was a pretty special part too..

And this...

Whootie!

I know Mrs. Wilson will love this little lady....

Click here to check out the "in process" pictures and more detail photos. Michele's work is AMAZING! You should visit her website. She paints AMAZING doggie and kitty portraits.

The One with the New Bed

2011-02-17T21:44:00.002-05:00

When papa remodeled mom's "dressing room" (that's a fancy name for extra room converted to closet and vanity area), I got a new bed to lounge in while she gets ready for work.

Ummm... do you see what I see?!?

How am I supposed to get any rest with this guy rubbing his grubby little fists together and staring at me!?

The One where SHE Strikes Again

2011-02-15T19:00:00.001-05:00

She did it again.

She clicked the dreaded MARK ALL AS READ.

Can you believe her? She spends the last three days hogging the computer and then, when it's finally my turn, she won't even let me visit all of my friends! She tried to console me that we would be back on track and able to keep up with everyone's blogs this way but... how annoying. I think I need my own laptop but she insists I have to be supervised on the internets. Who does she think I am? PHOENIX?

Besides, you all remember how papa gave us a safety lesson.

Regardless of my internet-smarts, she's always watching over my shoulder. ::sigh:: Sorry I haven't been around to visit as much! I promise we'll be better about that soon! Besides all of the remodeling here, it's a busy time at mom's work and her job puts lots of yummy food in my bowl so.... I guess she wins. This time!

The One on Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T20:47:00.001-05:00

So after MUCH ADO with the post office (we don't have a cool letter carrier like Frankie does!!), A SPECIAL PACKAGE arrived for me today. ON VALENTINE'S DAY!!!

I bet you can guess who it's from...

MY BESTEST BOY SARGE!!!

Mom helped me open it. I'm still working on those talents.

OMD - it smells PAWSOME in here!

Ooo... there's a card!

And this cool pawprint bag (this is what smells SOOOO good!!!)...

Okay... card first...

LOOK at this! Super special cop stuff! I practiced the whistle first.

Then tried on my Deputy Dawg Badge.

How does it look??

"Okay... mom... how about we open these DONUTS?!"

"Umm... yeah... seriously.

Isn't Zona's photo shoot over?
It's donut time!!"THANK YOU, SARGE!!!
I hope everyone - especially Sarge -
had the bestest Valentine's Day EVER!

I know I did!!!

The One with the Cleaning

2011-02-12T19:27:00.000-05:00

Unlike yesterday, today brought a flurry of activity! We played outside quite a bit because it was on the WARM side, if you can believe that!

But the day was mostly filled with mom running around cleaning... yawn. Phoenix supervised.

"MOM! You missed another bit of straw under the chair."
Don't ask how so much straw gets in the house.
I have nothing to do with that.Cali relaxed between play sessions
but didn't help too much.
I followed mom around, as usual,
but mostly watched TV.
This is my favorite show.

The One with Friendly Friday

2011-02-11T15:14:00.000-05:00

I've talked about Dogs Deserve Better on Friendly Friday before but you HAVE to hear about their most recent project. Remember that guy that mom can't even speak of without get

ting angry? You know the one... he's on the TV box almost every day and lots of people consider him a "hero" despite everything. Anyway, Dogs Deserve Better has a 45-day contract on the former Bad Newz Kennels property. They are trying to raise money to either purchase this property and bring "light to the darkness" by turning these horrifying memories at the Bad Newz Kennels into the Good Newz Rehab Center, a sanctuary for dogs in need OR to purchase another property to house the center in honor of those lives lost and damaged by the time at BNK.

You should check out their website and vote!

There have been a few articles recently published, such as this one from WVEC Channel 13 and the post on TruthaboutPetFood.com, to bring attention to this effort.

The One on February 10

2011-02-10T17:08:00.000-05:00

Some of you may remember this day two years ago. It was a very sad day in our house. We said goodbye to Ginger before she left for the bridge. This was the hardest day in both mom's and papa's lives.

We miss her every single day. But there are moments and days when we KNOW she's watching over us.

Today was one of those days. Originally mom had her "big" ultrasound scheduled for February 17 but the office called to move the appointment to February 10 because of scheduling. My mom's not too quick so the other day, the significance of that date dawned on her.

We can't help but think that Ginger is still taking care of us. This time by possibly having a paw in the rearranging of the schedule so that we would now have a wonderful memory of this day too.

Today we found out that in just a few months, we'll be having a baby BOY two-legger!!

Can you believe it?? My very own boy to play with and watch over. Cali is the most excited of course but I'm a pretty close second. Mom finds me checking out the progress on the nursery every afternoon and evening. I won't bore you with those details. Mom has that on her much less interesting blog along with 87 pictures from the ultrasound today. Poor kid - already hounded by the puparazzi!

The One with Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-09T11:33:00.000-05:00

PeeS - have you heard about the cheetah cubs?! I saw them on the news and they're right down the street from us! Mom said I can't go visit but she showed me this cool webcam... kinda like mom's spy cam for us. (I haven't caught them playing any poker yet!) Check it out. They are adorable!

PeeSS - don't forget to stop by tomorrow. I'm going to have a special post!!