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<title>Lexi's Special Days</title>
<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days</link>
<description>Dogster diary for the dog Lexi</description>
<language>en</language>
<copyright>Copyright 2013 by Lexi &amp; Dogster</copyright>
<pubDate>Sat, 18 May 2013 17:24:57 PDT</pubDate>
<generator>Dogster Pet-o-matic Gennie - http://www.dogster.com</generator>
<ttl>360</ttl>

	<item>
		<title>Ten Years Old!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/826144</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 8 May 2013 18:28:49 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/826144</guid>
		<description>I had my birthday yesterday and I am ten years old. I hear that is a milestone. Don't believe all th ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I had my birthday yesterday and I am ten years old. I hear that is a milestone. Don't believe all this stupid math about one dog year equal seven human years. It really doesn't work that way. And no one would think I was a day over, well, five, maybe. I don't really understand all this number stuff any way. I just know I am healthy and look fabulous. My hair is beautiful, my teeth are clean, my eyes are bright and there is a definite jaunt in my step. I can bark as loud as ever and run with the big dog. Every year the vet asks if my appetite is good. I am a schnauzer, for heaven's sake! Of course my appetite is good. 

Speaking of birthdays and appetites, what a great day! I went to work with Mom and joined everyone in their staff meeting, which means all the staff was there. They had cupcakes for my birthday and I ate an orange one and a white one. They were mini-cupcakes, I think because I am a mini-schnauzer. So I had one plus one. We went for a walk around downtown and I thought - or hoped - I would get to go in another restaurant like I did the last time I played Toto. No such luck. After we left the church we headed to the pet store where I got to sniff everything and get one plus one treats at the checkout. I got the plus one because it was my birthday. I love birthdays. On the drive home, Mom gave me one of the new treats she bought.

I did get a bit upset when we got home because no one gave me my kibble and it was getting late - well past my supper time. The thought was that I had been eating all day and should be ok for a while. Soon I found out why I didn't get my kibble...Mom cooked me a Healthy Choice dinner and I sat at the table and ate with Mom and Dad. Mom held the fork for me and helped me eat the green beans, chicken, sweet potatoes and wild rice. Yummy! Just when I thought it couldn't get any better, it did - white cake with lots of frosting. I had to share with Riley, but he still didn't get to sit on a chair at the table like me. 

Birthdays are the best, especially when they are mine!

Lexi, the birthday girl]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I found Lily</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/824511</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 23 Apr 2013 17:11:53 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/824511</guid>
		<description>Mom was looking all over the house when she finally stopped and said, &quot;Lexi, find Lily.&quot; For those o ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom was looking all over the house when she finally stopped and said, "Lexi, find Lily." For those of you not in the know, Lily is my 15 year old step-sister, a biggish orangish dog. As I was in my closet at the time - that is, the master closet where my kennel resides - I started there, then stood up with my paws on the bathroom cupboards so I could try to see if she was on top of the bathroom counter. Nope. Not there. I proceeded to the living room, sniffing and using my good eyesight, but no Lily. I continued on into the kitchen, which would have been my choice of a place to hide, but not there either. I ran back to my Dad's home office and sure enough, there she was. I let out a loud bark so Mom would know I had found Lily. Mom was so happy with me that she gave me a treat. Right in front of my brother Riley. 
He, he, wasn't Lily surprised!

Lexi, the tracking schnauzer]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Big surpises at the children's hosital</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/823869</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 17 Apr 2013 16:40:07 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/823869</guid>
		<description>It started out similar to any other day at the children's hospital except, since it was the week bef ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It started out similar to any other day at the children's hospital except, since it was the week before Easter, many of the children had left or were preparing to leave. After quickly making the usual rounds, we headed up to the outpatient section on the third floor. As we stepped off the elevator I saw two nurses who standing outside the doors of a place I had never been called the IC Unit. They oohed and awed over me as usual. Now, please don't think I tire of such adulation - to the contrary, I live for it. Mom says that is why I am so good on stage. But I digress. They told us to come into the unit, but I think they were worried because they were looking around like I do when I want to snatch some of my brotherâ€™s food. I wasnâ€™t worried, though. Whatâ€™s the worst that could happen?  I have certainly been thrown out of nicer places. And worse, come to think of it. So in we went, and I visited with only one person, but it was sure worth it. She asked me to sit in the bed with her while she pet me like she really knew what she was doing. She grinned from ear-to-ear and said I had made her day. I could tell she really needed me there so I settled in for the long haul. When I finally had to move on, she smiled at me until I was out of sight. I heard one of the nurses say she had been crying because her family didnâ€™t have any gas to come and visit her. I sure hope Mom never runs out of gas. I am not sure what it is but it seems like something that is really important to have.
From there we went into the outpatient unit where I visited with only one child. As we were leaving a doctor stopped us and asked if we would wait for his patient to wake up but Mom said she had better get back to work. Then, as we were waiting to get on the elevator, someone from a place called ABC stopped us and asked if they could film me with one of the patients. Mom whipped out her cell phone and called her boss to let him know we were going to be a bit late and why. It was real quiet for a minute and later I found out that her boss didnâ€™t say anything for a while. Boy, wasnâ€™t he surprised! Then he said it was ok, so we went back in and I did my therapy thing for the camera. It was a little hard to do though, because I normally do therapy as a reaction to what the patient needs, and this patient didnâ€™t really seem to need me. Dang, if I had just had some warning I could have gone into acting mode and oohed and awed everyone. I got bored with the whole thing and went to the bottom of the bed to get a better look at the camera, and so it could get a better picture of me. The people were real nice to me and told us that it would air on ABC National during some Childrenâ€™s Miracle Telethon in the middle of a golf tournament. Mom explained that meant I was going to be on TV where hundreds, no thousands, no â€“ thousands of thousands of people would see me. Woohoo! I wish they could all give me treats and ask to have their pictures taken with me.
The doctor showed up again and asked if we could come see his patient because she had really wanted to see me before she fell asleep so he could do something called an operation. She was still asleep, but her family said that was ok, just put me up close to her in the bed so they could all take pictures to show that I had come to visit her. I posed some more while everyoneâ€™s cell phone flashed. 
On the way home, Mom called Mary Gardner â€“ who had forgotten about coming to take me to the hospital â€“ and said, boy, did you ever miss it today! He, he, wasnâ€™t she surprised!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Valentine's Day</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/816298</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 14 Feb 2013 14:49:32 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/816298</guid>
		<description>I hope everyone is having a delicious Valentine's Day with all your favorite treats. Actually, I wis ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I hope everyone is having a delicious Valentine's Day with all your favorite treats. Actually, I wish I was the one getting all my favorite treats. Let me tell you how my day began.

Just before mom left for work she tried to give me one of those hard candy hearts that have something called writing on them. I have had them before and know they aren't any good. When I wouldn't take it she laid it on the kitchen floor in front of me. I sensed she would be disappointed if I rejected her love offering, so I picked it up, carried it in the other room and laid it down. I hope she didn't see me do that because I didn't want to hurt her feelings. Then I ran back to say goodbye before burying the icky candy in the couch for good.

Actually, I ran back to ask if I could go with her this being Thursday and all. Statistically speaking I go with mom to work on Thursdays more than any other day so I figured my chances were pretty good as opposed to, say, a Monday. But no,she said I needed to stay home and sit in dad's lap a lot today. 

So how do I get rewarded? Dad told mom that he was worried about me because I was sitting in his lap a lot today, which is a deviant from my normal aloof behavior. Mom reminded him that I was just doing what she had asked me to do. That seemed to worry him even more!

Then mom told him that she was worried about me because I didn't eat the candy she gave me this morning and maybe he should take my temperature. Thankfully, dad isn't big into sticking things in my derriere, so that didn't happen. Whew, missed that bullet. 

All this just because I was trying to be nice. What is that saying... oh yes, no good deed goes unpunished.  

Well, we did go for a good walk and I got to poop in other yards where cats live and watch mom clean it up. That kind of made up for the rest of the day. I am pretty tired from being so nice today, so I think I will go to bed early and hope for a better nite-nite treat.

Love to all,
Lexi the nice Schnauzer]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Pet Therapy Day</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/810322</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 28 Dec 2012 12:51:21 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/810322</guid>
		<description>Hello my adoring fans,

Once again, pet therapy day arrived. Why do people always ask if I am goin ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello my adoring fans,

Once again, pet therapy day arrived. Why do people always ask if I am going to get therapy? Do they think I need it? Surely not! I am going to GIVE it. Ughh. People can be so frustrating when they aren't petting me and giving me treats.

First thing in the morning Mom plopped me in the sink and gave me a bath. Good grief, can't I at least wake up a bit more before the torture begins? I endured it for the sake of the children. I love the children. I love seeing them smile. I smile at them, too. 

Then Mom found out that our friend, Mary Gardner, couldn't take me because she had company and something about rats. Mom said, no Mary Gardner didn't have rats. Mom claims M.G. just SAID "rats!" as in, "Rats, I can't take Lexi today." But I still think she had rats and that is why she couldn't take me. If she had just come and gotten me, I could have helped her out. I am a ratter breed, you know. That, by the way, is why Mom won't get a guinea pig. She thinks I will... ummmm... yep I probably would. Yummy!

So Mom ended up taking me to the hospital and the kids and I smiled at each other a lot. I sat in their beds and presented my rump and they knew what to do. I can tell who has dogs at home because they are the best petters. They know which spots to hit and how to hit it juuuuust right. 

I guess that's all I have to say today. Everyone stay warm. I have my own natural winter coat since mom doesn't shave me in the winter. Please try to not be too jealous.

Lexi the warm schnauzer]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>The Tivoli Experience</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/808985</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 17 Dec 2012 17:29:15 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/808985</guid>
		<description>Precious fans,
I know you have been waiting with bated breath - or maybe that is kibble breath - to ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Precious fans,
I know you have been waiting with bated breath - or maybe that is kibble breath - to hear about my command performance on stage at the Tivoli. Let me just say it did not start out well. Mom and I went in the stage door and the doorkeeper - sorta like that guy with the big mustache and top hat who kept the door at the Emerald City - said, "That dog can't be here." Without missing a beat Mom said, "Yes she can." He said, "No she can't." Mom said - well you get the picture. They finally called in the folks in charge and had a big discussion and looked at rules and you won't believe this, no I couldn't. It seems the place is owned by the city and I would have had to have permits from the Humane Society and the ASPCA and I think God himself. They said it is easier to get permits for fireworks than for animals. But then everyone felt bad since they had, afer all, invited me, so they said I could stay, I just couldn't perform on stage. What was I to do...I'll tell you what! Therapy! There were a lot of stressed-out people around there, and I didn't waste any time. That sweet lady maestra was there and spent time petting me and talking so nice to me in her pretty voice. In fact the next day she gave Mom a Christmas card with my name on it too and asked why she didn't bring me! 

After about an hour or so my Dad showed up and I was so happy to see him. I had just finished my therapy work - and believe me, there were a lot of folks there who needed it - and he and Riley and I went home where I took a much deserved nap. 

I didn't tell Riley I wasn't on the stage. Let's keep that our secret, ok?

Lexi, the Tivoli therapy dog]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I'm on stage again, yea!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/808563</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 14 Dec 2012 10:22:18 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/808563</guid>
		<description>Hello my loyal and awesome fans,

Well, I did it again. Headline news: I am starring (Mom says app ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello my loyal and awesome fans,

Well, I did it again. Headline news: I am starring (Mom says appearing, I say starring) in the Chattanooga Symphony Opera's Home for the Holiday Production at the Tivoli Theater this weekend. Saturday and Sunday. If you remember, I already did one gig for the Tivoli when I rode around with "Dorothy" in a pedicab to promote their Wizard of Oz symphony production. Anyhow, here's how it all came down this time:

I went to work with Mom yesterday so that I could A. Hang out and get fed and pet and B. Go to one of the local hospitals to help make people there smile. A. happened, B. cancelled - odd- I've never had them cancel before, but something about the pet therapy person having knee surgery.

Mom had a Home for the Holidays production meeting that evening at the church where we work, and since I was itching for something to do, I followed along with her to the meeting. I was busy mingling and checking for food when the producer caught sight of me and without so much as an introduction, glance at my bio or anything, said, "I want that dog in the show." I am a natural, I have to admit. One look at me and someone in the know, just knows. I belong on the stage, it is like my second home. Adoring fans, treats, what more could any schnauzer ask for? Mom answered that yes, I am a stage dog, very happy and comfortable on the stage, and if he really wanted me (come on, Mom, didn't he just say he did!?) that she would bring me. Other than running down the aisle (Mom thinks we are walking; won't she be surprised) she said she doesn't know what I am going to do after that while she is dancing, but the maestra (who fell in love with me last night at the meeting) could hold me. The producer said no, he wanted me to be able to run around. Woo hoo! I get to ad lib! I am really good at that - as I am at most things. I can't wait! I will let you, my devoted fans, know just how it went and what I do on stage.

Lexi, the Tivoli dog]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Theatre: Riley out, Lexi not in either</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/808561</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 14 Dec 2012 10:09:48 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/808561</guid>
		<description>Here's an update on the Riley might be on the stage fiasco. HE DIDN'T GET THE PART. Big surprise the ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Here's an update on the Riley might be on the stage fiasco. HE DIDN'T GET THE PART. Big surprise there. (Yes, we schnauzers understand sarcasm.) The really big surprise is that I didn't get the part as Sandy in Annie, either. So what I didn't audition. They should have known! Considering my considerable stage experience and talent, not to mention my last name is Sandy, I simply can't believe it. What I do believe is that I hear the mismatched mixed breed that was chosen is bombing. I don't mean to besmirch anyone's reputation - he's doing a good enough job of it on his own - but it seems that he's afraid to be on the stage and won't go to Annie, even when she implores him with treats in hand. Sure, I'm a bit short in stature, but if you remember my motto (one of many) "You're as big as you think you are," then you know I would have been perfect for the part. Everyone would have seen me as a big dog because that's how I would have played the role! Heck, I already played Toto as a BOY and a CAIRN TERRIER.  

Maybe next time...

Lexi Sandy, not Annie's Sandy]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Riley in Theater? How could this be!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/804988</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 13 Nov 2012 10:39:23 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/804988</guid>
		<description>Yesterday Mom dropped Riley off at day care and brought me to work, and at that point I thought the  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yesterday Mom dropped Riley off at day care and brought me to work, and at that point I thought the world was still turning the right direction on its axis. I had a good day at the church even though it was a Monday and the Quilters were not there. There were still lots of treats from other quarters. 

Then we went to get Riley after work, which was still the norm. Where we went next was surprising but pleasant. Mom drove us to the Theatre Centre, a place of many happy memories for me. I not only gave stunning performances there in my role as Toto, I have also presented awards, received an award, and attended performances at other plays there. It's sort of like my alma mater. So far so good. There was even someone there with a microphone doing interviews and she was naturally more interested in me that anyone else. I really didn't understand why Riley was with us, other than he didn't have anywhere else to go, probably because no one wanted him. Mom told her all about my stint in the Wizard of Oz with several amusing antidotes. I know the reporter will have some good material there. Perhaps she will come back wanting a picture, my head shot for instance. 

It was what happened next that sent my world spinning. We went into the rehearsal room to audition, just like I did 5 years ago when I got the part of Toto. I heard Riley's name called and Mom tied me to a chair. Everyone had made a terrible mistake. Surely they didn't actually want that big red bumbling mutt. Oh, the injustice! The travesty! What has this world come to! I tried to drag the chair out to the center of the room to make sure they saw me and realized their horrendous error. Someone grabbed my leash and stopped me. Pulled up short I barked and was ignored. Then Riley proceeded to embarrass me as he usually does. While it is true that he sat nicely and stayed and came when told, and while it is also true that he gave quite a nice bow, he was jumping all over people and I think he may have even frightened the little darling who was sent out to be his victim. Just when I thought she had had enough, someone brought her a chair, where she sat and sang prettily to him. He didn't exactly sit still while she sang, but when she was done he did show her how much he appreciated her singing by groveling all over her. I don't think she liked that either. He does weigh quite a bit you know, far more than a one stone schnauzer. In fact, he is probably at least 3 stones plus a lot of pebbles thrown in. 

When all the dogs (except me) were done auditioning they were told that there were more dogs auditioning tomorrow and everyone would be notified of the results. Now that I have had more time to think about it, I am thinking that they will simply call me to come be the star without even so much as an audition since they already know what an awesome perfomance I give. They must just be doing this stupid human thing of being "fair" but I think it is just building up false hopes. 

I will wait for the call and act surprised when Mom tells me I got the part. He, he. Won't all those other dogs be surprised!

Lexi, the thespian]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Therapy Dog Supreme</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/804475</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 9 Nov 2012 09:53:49 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/804475</guid>
		<description>Hello my underlings and ardent admirers,

After several years off from the physical therapy hospit ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello my underlings and ardent admirers,

After several years off from the physical therapy hospital I have made a come-back. It wasn't quite all I had hoped for, but it sure beat laying around the house listening to Riley lick his paws. I close my eyes, but I can still hear him. I digress.

I may have mentioned how much I love going to the children's hospital. Those kids are neatly tucked away in their beds - most of the time - and I sit on the soft mattress and allow them to pet me. Sometimes there is a rogue one in the hallway and I always put on my best therapy dog face and try to make them smile. Of course, I am always, and I mean always, smiling when I am there. The place smells like food - I seem to hit just after breakfast and before lunch and the odors are lingering, coming and going you might say. And everyone makes over me and pets me and says what a wonderful dog I am and wants to know all about me. I think mom should bring my bio and the Oz program and my Annie theatre award, but she seems content to just hand out my calling card. It has a rather flattering picture of me and some of my more important stats as well as pointing folks to my web page. Again, I digress.

So I smile my doggie smile, not just because of the wonderful food smells, but also because I know I am doing something good. I can get kids to smile, too, who have been crying up to the time they see me. I think they are sick, and maybe hurting, but just the sight of my beautiful bearded face cheers them. I know you must be saying, "Is this really Lexi the schnauzer talking?" It does sound so unlike me. Confession time: I do have an altruistic side that likes to make people happy, especially kids and old people. Mom says I am a gift from God to spread joy. Personally, I like the black raspberry spread, but joy seems good too, especially when it ends in a treat for me.

I will get back to you on how this newest therapy job progresses. I go again next month

Love and joy to all of you,

Lexi, therapy dog supreme]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Rocktober Fest Week 2</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/801650</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 17 Oct 2012 13:29:39 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/801650</guid>
		<description>Hello again my faithful followers,

Here it is the second weekend of Rocktober Fest, and Mom and D ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello again my faithful followers,

Here it is the second weekend of Rocktober Fest, and Mom and Dad go off Friday night and don't come back. While it is true that my people brother Andrew came to stay with me - and I love my Andrew - the fact still remains that I got left. Does this mean I won't get to go to Rocktober Fest, I ask myself?

Saturday comes and goes and I am stuck here at the house with my dog brother Riley. Andrew and Jentry go off somewhere - work, I think - and leave me here wondering if and when someone is going to come take me to Rock City. Oh, woe is me. 

Sunday comes and things are looking up. The boy has come - I think his name is Conner - and he is playing with Riley. That is good because I get to bark at Riley a lot when they play. It makes me look like I am protecting the boy, when in reality I am using as an excuse to take my anger and frustration out on Riley. BOL.

Things keep getting better. Andrew talked to my Mom (his mom too) on the phone and I heard him say, yes, Lexi's beard is clean. Then he packed us all in the car and we went to --- you guessed it! Rocktober Fest! Woo hoo. I missed my Mom and Dad so much and was so glad to see them that I couldn't even try to act all mad that they left me. So I got lots of good food off the floor and people adoring me and good music and all is now well in my life.

Lexi, once again the Rocktober Fest Dog]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Rocktober Fest time</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/801648</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 17 Oct 2012 13:19:05 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/801648</guid>
		<description>Hello my loyal fans. (I am a theater dog, after all.)

It is October, the wonderful month when my  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello my loyal fans. (I am a theater dog, after all.)

It is October, the wonderful month when my dad spends all day every Saturday and Sunday at the place where my "Dorothy" works, Rock City. They have this festival with lots of good food and beer all month long. It is called Rocktober Fest. I know that's where we are going when we start driving up the mountain. Oh, I get so excited. Why? I'll tell you why:
1. Food falling on the floor
2. My beloved Dorothy - I think her not on stage name is Kim, like mine is Lexi, not Toto
3. Food falling on the floor
4. Beer
5. Food falling on the floor
6. Music and dancing
7. Food falling on the floor

Well, you get the picture. I have decided I don't really like their beer, but there is always Food falling on the floor. And great music and dancing. (Refer to comment: I am a theater dog, after all.)

The first Saturday, Mom and Dad dressed up in their funny German costumes and off we went to Rocktober Fest. Mom got cold, though, and went to the car. Then she got a call from Dad and started driving away! Aghhh! Seems that he had forgotten something, so she drove real fast back home to get it and changed her clothes (did I mention she was cold) and I was standing at the door ready to go back with her when she grabbed my annoying brother Riley and left me behind!!! Can you imagine the indignity of it all? Huh. Sometimes I just hate him. (I know, I am going to have to ask for forgiveness for that one!)

Lexi the Rocktober Fest Dog]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I'm a Church Dog</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/800690</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 9 Oct 2012 12:46:25 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/800690</guid>
		<description>Hi Brothers and Sisters,

I go with my mom to the church where she works and do therapy (unofficia ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi Brothers and Sisters,

I go with my mom to the church where she works and do therapy (unofficially) and ask for food until it is time to go to the hospital to therapize the poor sick kids (who often have food too). All that to say, the staff at the church all know and love me - what's not to love! Knowing this, it came as no surprise that I was asked to come to Sunday school to visit with the kids on the Sunday they celebrated St. Francis of Assisi (patron Saint of animals, for all you unchurched canines out there). 

Out in the hallway before the class started, one girl screeched when she saw me. I would like to think it was with delight, but it sounded more like fear. She smelled like fear, too. Then we all went into the classroom and there were 6 or 7 kids (math isn't my strong point so it might have been more)who all sat in a circle on the floor with a few grown-ups, including my mom. The girl who screeched was given a chair to sit in and one of my church friends, Mary Gardner, said it was so she would be more comfortable with her dress. I knew Mary Gardner was just being nice, because I knew the fear girl was up in that chair so that she didn't have to be too close to the source of her fear - me! Well, I also knew just what to do - I am a therapy dog, after all, duh. First, I walked around the inside of the circle, checking out everybody (no one had any food, by the way). When I got to the fear girl I just kept going and didn't stop to say hi. I could tell she was watching me, though, and starting to get curious. Then I made a second round, stopping again to let everyone pet me, and this time I stopped next to the fear girl but didn't look at her. That can be intimidating, you know, when you are scared of someone and they look at you. When she reached out and touched me I knew I was making progress. I thought, well, one more time ought to do it. So there I went again, stopping to see everyone in the circle, and this time I stopped and looked at the fear girl and most of the smell of fear was gone. I tried to tell her it was ok, I wouldn't hurt her, and she must have undertood because she reached out and pet me real nice. 
My work here is done.

Lexi the Church Dog]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Oz was almost real, and 3rd place at Freestyle</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/792599</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 10 Aug 2012 13:29:55 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/792599</guid>
		<description>Hello again, my adoring fans.

In my last entry I mentioned the fun pedicab ride I was about to ta ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello again, my adoring fans.

In my last entry I mentioned the fun pedicab ride I was about to take to promote the Wizard of Oz. Well, wouldn't you know, tornadoes started ripping through town, and there I am out with my newest Dorothy, thinking I am about to get blown all the way to Oz!! We went in a restaurant (yes, I said WE went in a restaurant - a lifelong dream of mine)and walked around and nobody even cared I -a dog - was there. The smells about drove me mad. But I managed to retain my professional composure and didn't beg or steal anyone's food. Meanwhile, Mom was in the basement where she worked, just like in Oz when everyone went in the storm shelter. People still on the street kept looking at the skies and saying, "How did you manage the weather?" to my Dorothy. It was pretty cool.

Then in April Mom and I competed in Freestyle. I got third place in my division. Mom said it didn't count, since it was also last place. Hmmmm. I think she has a bad attitude about it. She wouldn't even let me wear my ribbon. I decided to change the routine, and is it my fault she couldn't follow along? She was not happy with me for a whole week. Geesh. You would think I had done my business on the floor in front of everyone, or something else as mortifying. I think she is looking for different music, as though that will help! Ha!

Lexi, still in Tennessee]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Catching up - nothing exciting</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/767884</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 28 Feb 2012 17:01:08 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/767884</guid>
		<description>It has been waaaay too long since Mom helped me with my diary. Let's see if I can get caught up. The ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It has been waaaay too long since Mom helped me with my diary. Let's see if I can get caught up. The imposters are still here -that would be Milo and Piper. Riley is bigger than ever and still here. He likes Piper best and always is bothering him, so he leaves me alone. Maybe we should just always keep Piper so Riley never bothers me. I think I will go tell mom that.

Hey, I got stairs and treats for Christmas. The stairs are next to the bed and it is just soooo easy to run up them to jump on mom's bladder in the morning. Love it!

I have been working on a new Freestyle routine for level 3. I am doing really good (naturally), even though sometimes mom forgets it or changes it. I really do try to help her remember. After all, there are lots of treats involved. It is fun working with mom, but more fun getting lots of treats!

I get to go ride around in a pedicab this week with Karley who is going to pretend she is Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz. That means I will pretend to be Toto again, even though I don't have the right haircut right now for that. I think there will be treats and petting involved, so I'm really good with that. It is to promote the movie being shown at the Tivoli Theater this Saturday. I wanted to be on stage, but the Tivoli said they would have to pay too much for permits. What the...?

I guess that's it for now. Pretty boring, huh? Catch ya next time.

Love me,
Lexi]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Poor baby has a boo boo</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/745121</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 20 Oct 2011 18:44:51 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/745121</guid>
		<description>Mom found this little pea-sized lump under my arm so what does she do but take me to the vet. I star ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom found this little pea-sized lump under my arm so what does she do but take me to the vet. I start shaking now every time she takes me to that place. I don't like it there. They are always sticking something up my behind. Next thing I know I am waking up and I am all shaved under my arm and there are things called stitches sticking out of me. What the...?

The next day my Auntie Jen came all the way from somewhere called Indiana to see me here in Tennessee. I love my Auntie Jen. I threw up my arm so she could see my boo boo. She didn't notice right away so I had to do it again, and then she gave me lots of sympathy. That was good. I went on to do other things as soon as she finished poor babying me. I wanted everyone to know what happened and feel bad for me, so everytime I saw someone else I did the same thing. Some people were slower than others, but I was patient and kept throwing up my arm until they understood. One night I was showing my dad again and he cleared his throat kind of embarassed like and said, uh Lexi, wrong arm. So I did a quick switch and raised my other arm like nothing had happened. How was I supposed to keep track of it now that they took out the stitches? It really wasn't my fault. Then a new lady I am told is Aunt Rhonda came and stayed with me while mom and dad were away for a night. She understood right away when I showed her my boo boo. She was so sweet about it that I decided I really liked her and let her sleep in the bed with me. Mom says I am milking this for all it is worth. I say, when you find a good thing, use it.

Lexi the poor baby]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Don't tell me what Riley did</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/745117</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 20 Oct 2011 18:35:04 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/745117</guid>
		<description>Now Riley is working on Freestyle. Talk about invading my turf! Mom's taking him to the OCC with us  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Now Riley is working on Freestyle. Talk about invading my turf! Mom's taking him to the OCC with us and everything. So one day mom took Riley somewhere - I know it must have been a fun place where he got all the attention that is mine - and then mom had the nerve to come home with him and say, "Lexi, let me tell you what Riley did." I got so mad that I head butted her right on the bridge of her nose. Gave her a headache for 2 days. She hasn't tried to tell me what Riley did since that. Guess she's trainable.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>4 dogs in the house</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/745115</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 20 Oct 2011 18:29:05 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/745115</guid>
		<description>Mom has been so busy she hasn't been keeping up with my diary. Shame on her! I have been a buys schn ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom has been so busy she hasn't been keeping up with my diary. Shame on her! I have been a buys schnauzer and so much has happened since summer. My schnauzer buds Piper and Milo came to live with us while their mom went away to school. I thought they were just visiting, but then they didn't leave. In my opinion, this is just too much of a good thing. I felt like they can go any time now. Then my Auntie Jen came and got Milo - 
I'm so glad cause all that barking was giving me a headache and making me grumpy. Piper seemed to really like Milo gone too and the house seemed much emptier with just him gone, even though there were 2 other dogs here, sometimes 4 when my sisters come every other week. Only a month later, here she comes back with him. I guess she got a headache too with all his barking. Now he's living here again. He really gives Piper his brother a hard time, but what do I care?

Riley is still here. I have come to accept he is staying for good (or bad). He's almost 1 1/2 years old now and isn't as annoying as when he first came, but he still tears up everything. Mom has my toys safely put away. She said she will give them back when Riley stops chewing. Today mom gave me my squirrel and Riley took it and I barked so ferociously that he went to mom and gave it to her. Ha! I showed him!

The good thing about the boys (Piper and Milo) being here is that Riley picks on them and leaves me alone. (Big schnauzer smile)

Mom found a new (to us) dog park and we've been going there a lot. I don't play with other dogs - that would be way beneath me. But there are lots of smells that keep me busy while Riley greets everyone and generally acts like a fool. I pretend I don't know him, let alone live with him. I hear people say how beautiful I am and that's enough for me. I have admirers everywhere I go. 

I should go now and make sure everyone is behaving themselves before I go to my kennel and wait for my night-night treat. 

Love to all my many admirers,

Lexi the beautiful]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>A case of mistaken identity</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/726642</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 26 Jun 2011 18:58:27 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/726642</guid>
		<description>My day started off really weird. I don't mind riding in the pick up truck. And I don't mind being in ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My day started off really weird. I don't mind riding in the pick up truck. And I don't mind being in a kennel. But I never knew I could ride in a kennel in a pick up truck. Mom put me in with my buddy Milo who is visiting from Maryland. She tied the kennel in good and made sure the tailgate was secure. What a rush! She and my dad took us to my old house where they mowed the grass. Then they took us to a new dog park. What fun! There were so many smells and lots of room to run around. I pooped and ran and drank water out of a big metal bucket. 

After they brought us back home mom got cleaned up and went to the garage and opened the car door. Milo and I jumped in and she backed out of the garage and started down the driveway when she suddenly looked over at me and stopped the car. What? Get out? No way! Then, to add insult to injury, dad came out carrying Piper, the other schnauzer who is staying with us. He put Piper in the car and mom made me go with dad back into the house. Sheesh. I am told it was just a case of mistaken identity. (Yes, Piper and I do look a lot alike since we came from the same breeder.) Then I heard something about shots and fecals and stuff, so maybe it is better I stayed home after all. 

Lexi the truckin schnauzer]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Titled in Freestyle</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/726384</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 24 Jun 2011 11:00:01 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/726384</guid>
		<description>I went to my first Freestyle competition in April. Mom and I worked on our routine for something lik ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I went to my first Freestyle competition in April. Mom and I worked on our routine for something like a year, which would probably be 7 years in dog time. On Saturday, the first day of competition, I got a little too curious and ran outside the ring. No one told me how bad that would be for my score. I really pretty much ran all over the performance area because it smelled so curious of so many dogs. Mom told me I had to do better on Sunday. So I did. I stayed with her and we did our much-practiced routine. I got enough points (not the same as treats, darn) to get my first Title. And I came in 3rd in my class, 2a. Everyone is really proud of me. Mom has a picture of us on her nightstand and she has a video of us performing. Of course, all the other dogs are on the video too, but that doesn't count. I really hate when she looks at the other dogs performing and makes nicey nice comments about them - especially the giant schnauzer! Hey I can't help I'm small. I was born this way. I have a really big self-image, though, and that counts for a lot!

Now Mom and I are working on our next competition performance. She said I am getting too fat from all the treats, so she is making me work for my supper. How fair is that! Well, truth be told, I do love to work on the figures and I do love to eat, so it works out ok for me. 

My big little brother Riley is working on Freestyle too. I think that is a joke. He has just learned the basic stuff, like sit and heel and down. How can he do Freestyle? I guess I will wait and see. He will never be as good as me! Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha.

Lexi the Titled]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Sweetie gone and where's Milo?</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/709860</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 2 Feb 2011 19:18:12 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/709860</guid>
		<description>Small victories are better than no victories. The old dog Sweetie went back to her foster home. Mom  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Small victories are better than no victories. The old dog Sweetie went back to her foster home. Mom and Dad talked all morning and I kept hearing the words Sweetie and Riley. Looks like Riley won. Too bad, he is the most annoying. And Sweetie got good smelling canned food that I was sure I would be able to swoop in and eat one of these days when she wasn't paying attention. Did I mention she is really old? Anyhow, Mom explained that since they decided to keep Riley unless they found him a really, really good home (hey folks don't you want him?)that it wasn't fair to Sweetie to make her put up with him. She said Riley made Sweetie's life miserable. So back she went. Wow, maybe I shouldn't let on that he makes my life miserable sometimes too. You don't think they would send me back somewhere, do you?

I've been hiding out in my kennel a lot and Mom said it made her feel bad that I haven't been spending time with her. So the next night I cuddled on the couch with her all night. 

I heard one of the schnauzer imposters barking tonight, and I looked all over the house for him. It was Milo--I would know that bark anywhere. Mom said she Skyped our friend Jennefer and that's why I heard him barking. I don't understand what Skyping is or how that would put Milo back in the house barking or why I couldn't find him? I barked back and heard him barking back at me, but I still couldn't find him. I think I will go to bed and think about that for awhile. 

Lexi, the victorious]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Imposters gone, puppy still here, old dog arrived, awards ceremony</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/709074</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 28 Jan 2011 16:42:10 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/709074</guid>
		<description>Hi there all my fans and admirers! Boy, do I have a lot to share with you today. Let me see if I can ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi there all my fans and admirers! Boy, do I have a lot to share with you today. Let me see if I can get this in the order it all happened.

First, the imposters (the 2 boy schnauzers) moved out. Hurray! They went with their Mom to somewhere called Maryland.

Second, the big puppy Riley is still here and just keeps getting bigger. He is very annoying, but I think I have him under control. Mom said she is trying to find him another, forever home. How about it, he's really a good dog (gag!)and would love, love, love to come live with you. 

Next, Mom and Dad got another dog. Have they lost their minds!? I hear them call her Sweetie. She is really old and doesn't like Riley either. He is always after her. I even feel a little sorry for her, kinda. At least she doesn't bother me or expect me to play with her or like her or anything. But I smell good canned food in her bowl every morning and I want it!! Mom shuts her in the bedroom to eat so I can't get any of it. She keeps pooing and peeing everywhere, and I heard Mom say she can't stay if she keeps that up. So there is hope...

Now, about me because, after all, isn't it ALL about me? I went to the Star Awards ceremony at the Colonnade where I starred in the Wizard of Oz. I was Toto. (He, he, I bet you didn't guess that!)Sure, I could have been anyone in the play like the tin man or the wizard, but I had experience as Toto, so at the risk of being stereotyped, I played that role again. I fully expected to get another award, but those people forgot all about me. I made my point by running up on stage while Kandis [Dorothy] was singing Over the Rainbow. Would you believe she had her eyes closed and didn't even see me! So I trotted backstage, lickity split, where they were setting up the food for after the awards. I came back out as she was finishing the song and this time she did see me cause people were chuckling. I slipped her and went back to the food. She came after me, though, and was sooooo glad I was there. We went in the lobby and she wanted me to run with her and play with her, but I just wasn't into it. No award and all, and I just wanted to get back to the food.

Today I went to work with mom because it was my day to go to the children's hospital and therapize. It was a really good day with a bunch of great kids. Some were especially good petters. Then we went to the pet store and I got a treat. I am pretty worn out from my big day, so that's all for tonight.

The star,

Lexi]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Not another dog in the pack!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/702187</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 5 Dec 2010 17:32:30 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/702187</guid>
		<description>Mom came home with another dog. She says he is a puppy, so I tried to be nice to him. But he is bigg ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom came home with another dog. She says he is a puppy, so I tried to be nice to him. But he is bigger than me and so very annoying. I tried to correct him and he jumped me. That was so completely unfair, especially since he is bigger than me. Mom says he would have been killed on the road if she hadn't picked him up and she is trying to find his for-real owner. I hope his for-real owner shows up soon because I am pretty sick of having him around. He bites me all the time. Mom says he is just wanting me to play but I don't like it. He doesn't seem to understand that I am in charge around here. Grrrrrrr. I am trying to ignore him and not get upset at him since he is supposed to be a puppy. He is also bugging the heck out of Piper and Milo. Now my step-sisters have come for a week, and Lily is actually playing with him. Then she gets tired of it and puts him in his place. She is bigger than him and he mostly listens to her. As long as he is following her around he isn't bothering me. 

The bothered schnauzer,

Lexi]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Kawabunga, dude! (or my most excellent plan)</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/701556</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 30 Nov 2010 16:54:46 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/701556</guid>
		<description>Mom said my plan was doomed to fail from the start. But I get ahead of myself. Let me digress. It al ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom said my plan was doomed to fail from the start. But I get ahead of myself. Let me digress. It all goes back to my buddies, the squirrels. Squirrels are cool, you know. Back at my other house before we moved, my squirrel buddies and I would hang out in the back yard. I would be like, whatcha doin? And they would be like, just huntin' nuts, so did you get any treats today? And I would be like, yeah, but not enough, let me try some of your nuts.

So, when Mom got me a toy squirrel that looks sooooo real, it reminds me of my buds and I don't want to hurt it. That's the set up for what happened this week. 

Do you remember in my last entry that I told ya'll about the 2 imposters living with me? These boys really get under my skin sometimes. So I hear this squeak, squeak, squeak (you get the point) and I run and look, and there is Piper chewing on my squirrel. I had to think quick, so I grabbed the nearest teddy bear and started running back and forth with it to make it look real enticing. Mom says what I didn't count on is I was dealing with another schnauzer. He didn't fall for it. So I get up on the couch next to where he was laying on the floor, still squeak, squeak, squeak. I flew off the couch onto his head. I was so sure that would work, but he just backed out of it and kept squeak, squeak, squeak and looking at me like ha, ha. That really ticked me off, so I tried a frontal attack. He just ran off, all the while squeak, squeak. 

I am going to have to think this one over. 

The kawabunga schnauzer without the squirrel,

Lexi]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Those other schnauzers at my house</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/695784</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 17 Oct 2010 06:48:16 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/695784</guid>
		<description>Hi friends,

I have 2 other schnauzers living at my house now. My Auntie Jen moved in (I think jus ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi friends,

I have 2 other schnauzers living at my house now. My Auntie Jen moved in (I think just for a while) and they came with her. Sure I knew them before they moved in, but it wasn't like, "in your face" all the time. Now I am kept busy telling them who is boss. They eat their food so fast that I have to stay by my bowl and eat it all up or they will get it. They sit on my couch, and play with my toys. Sometimes I don't let them. There have to be rules and an understanding about who is in charge around here. They are boys, so they always listen to me. I don't think they should get any treats, either, but mom says it is only fair. At least they don't get to go to doggie dancing!

Doggie Dancing-it's great! Mom and I are getting ready for an exhibition in Nashville. We practiced by going to Dogs in the Park at McCallie School. It was really hot and we performed outside in the heat and on the grass. I got pretty distracted with all the smells, and did I mention it was hot? Mom said it will be different in Nashville. I don't care--I liked smelling all the neat stuff in the grass.

Later, dudes!

Lexi]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Back into Freestyle!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/674530</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 30 May 2010 17:40:38 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/674530</guid>
		<description>Today Mom and I started back into Freestyle. Mom calls it doggie dancing. Dad says it is coordinated ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today Mom and I started back into Freestyle. Mom calls it doggie dancing. Dad says it is coordinated movement. I just call it fun! I get lots of treats and good girls, and that makes me smile a lot. They play my favorite music, Split Rail Fences by the hammered dulcimer player, Dan Landrum. I can really get going to that music. Everyone said such nice things about me, like I am smart and beautiful and a natural at this. Of course it is all true, and I already know these things, but it is still nice to hear them. 

Oh yes, I did want to mention something that mom thinks is really neat. Last week we went to the children's hospital to make kids smile. I am really good at that, too, by the way. So the lady who takes us around and opens the kids doors for me (I think everyone calls her Lois) said, "Let's go to room 316." I forged ahead and stopped at that room. When we were done there, she said, "Now we are going to room 319." Again, I went on ahead and stopped at that room. Mom and the Lois lady don't know how I knew which room. He, he. I don't think I will tell them. 

Keep on woofing!

Lexi the dancing dog]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>May birthday - Year recapped</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/670820</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 9 May 2010 08:39:28 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/670820</guid>
		<description>It's been such a busy year!

My birthday was Friday, and I went to St. Paul' Episcopal church (whe ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It's been such a busy year!

My birthday was Friday, and I went to St. Paul' Episcopal church (where Mom works) to spend the day. We had a party--cupcakes and doggie ice cream for me, people ice cream for everyone else. How many schnauzers do you know who get to have a birthday party at church! I have been there more lately, since our house is up for sale and I go with mom when there is going to be a showing. Everyone loves me (of course) as I play mymagic on them. If mom can't find me, she just has to look for who has food at their desk. I will be sitting there staring at them. Not long ago I greeted the financial secretary at the back door, made her understand I wanted her to follow me, and led her into the work room where I had detected bagels on the table, but couldn't reach them. Ihad been sitting staring up at the table until I heard Gail come in and ran to ask for some help. Unfortunately, Gail didn't give me one. Speaking of food, I am thriving on Blue Buffalo Salmon and Sweet Potato. What a great brand! Dad put my sisters on it too, and no more allergy problems.
 
It has been another exciting year for me! Mom and I graduated from 3 agility classes; then mom put it down for a while. I was doing fine. Mom was having trouble keeping her bearings on the course. So then we moved on to Freestyle with a different group. Pam Moore (with Sophie) was in agility with us, and went on to Freestyle. Sophie has really blossomed with this special attention. She even won some events her first time out at an agility competition! Anyhow, it was mostly just meand Sophie in the Freestyle training with a couple of good teachers (and mom and Pam). They were starting to prepare us to compete in the April event here in Chattanooga. Then another opportunity opened that I couldn't resist--I was asked to play Toto again at the Colonnade in Ringgold, GA. We had 6 weeks of rehearsals and 2 weekends of performance, and it knocked us out of Freestyle training. I figured we could get back into Freestyle, but this opportunity wouldn't wait. Anyhow, Ibonded with my new Dorothy, who mom couldn't call Dorothy, because every time she did, I went running off looking for Kim, who played my first Dorothy. So mom just called her by her name, Kandis. The wicked witch, Jan, used to train dogs, so we spent some time at her house with Kandis, too, during which time I also bonded with her...not such a good thing. Read on... The second weekend of the play, during the scene where Miss Gulch (also played by Jan) has lost "that dratted dog" and gone back to the farm looking for me, I got away from a distracted Kandis (who was probably texting, but definitely not watching me) and run back out on stage to Jan, where I stop and look up at Jan. Jan looked down at me and cracks up. At that point "Uncle Henry" points at me and says, "there's that dratted dog!" and, as if on cue, I run back off the stage to mom. Everyone in the audience roared with laughter. 
 
I  remember my role from 2 1/2 years ago. I  picked up old habits, like how I followed the foursome down the yellow brick road. My agility and freestyle training had honed my responsiveness to their movements. And yes, in the opening scene where I run out onto stage at the end of the Rainbow song, ending up in Dorothy's arms, everyone still went, "awwwwww."
 
Jennefer (Piper's mom) and my mom are still good friends. So she comes the first night the play opens and sits in the second row. Yeah, not a good idea. Halfway through the second act, I peep out from behind the curtain, spot her, and tear across the stage, down the stairs and leap into her lap! Jennefer said she felt like such a proud aunt. People started asking her if I was her dog, and she said, no, I am her niece. Now we call her "Auntie Jen."
 
The same doggie bakery who made all my healthy treats and "hot dogs" (really dog biscuits) donated them for the play. They remembered me. 
 
A couple of weeks after the play ended, Mom and Dad and I attended the cast party. They played the video of one of the performances, and at the end of the opening credits, it said, in great big letters, "Introducing Lexi as Toto". Not quite accurate, but prettty neat, nonetheless. I mingled and when dinner was served I sat at the head of one of the tables and ate my salmon and asparagus off a fork (of course Mom cut it up and helped me with the fork). I never, ever, put my head down into the plate when sitting at a table. I to know that would be extremely bad manners.
 
I go once a month to T.C. Thompson Children's hospital. Among all my tricks, the best one is putting a big smile on a sick kid's face. I sit quietly on the bed next to a child to let him/her pet me. I don't move around the bed or ever step on the child, which is pretty important since many have had surgery. We would both love to go more often, but there are too many dogs who love to do the same thing. Mom is certainly blessed to have a boss who sees the importance in what we do, that she can take off work every month to do this. 
 
I am scheduled to go to an elementary school next week. The children have been reading about service dogs, and they want me to come so they can see a real, live, therapy dog.Mom says I will probably spend the time sniffing under their desks for crumbs!

It's been such a busy year! I am looking forward to lots more fun in the year ahead.

Ya'all be good, and if you can't be good, don't get caught!

Lexi, the birthday girl]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Done performing and cast party</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/664972</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 5 Apr 2010 19:19:08 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/664972</guid>
		<description>I got to perform for two weekends, and I love, love, love it!  Just imagine all the treats you want, ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I got to perform for two weekends, and I love, love, love it!  Just imagine all the treats you want, plus people oowing and awwwwing over you. And lots of petting, too. Who wouldn't love the stage life!!  My mom and dad took me to the cast party. It was in an Episcopal church where the director (CJ) is the choir master. CJ gave me all the treats that were left from the play, but mom wouldn't let me eat them all right then. I sat at the head of one of the tables and had my own plate of salmon and asparagus. Then I had my own piece of cake, too. I ate very nicely off the fork, with my mom helping me. I never put my head down in the plate when I am sitting at the table. What do you think, I am barbarian? No, I have good table manners. I learned them by watching my mom. 

After we ate we watched a video of the play. In the opening credits, it said really big, INTRODUCING LEXI AS TOTO. He, he. That's me! Everyone laughed and applauded. Someone said I am type cast now that I have played Toto in two plays. I hope type cast means I get a lot of treats!

Now I am staying at home a lot, and I don't like that so much. Mom took me to the park today, and I ran a lot, but the sun was hot on my pretty black hair. I can't take too much of the sun and heat. Then we took a long ride and I cooled off in the air conditioning. Mom said to be sure to say happy Easter to all you great woofers. Bye for now!

Lexi the unemployed Toto]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Toto again!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/653777</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 7 Feb 2010 15:06:23 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/653777</guid>
		<description>I'm Toto again!! This time I'm with Kandis instead of Dorothy. Mom said, &quot;Here's Dorothy,&quot; and I loo ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I'm Toto again!! This time I'm with Kandis instead of Dorothy. Mom said, "Here's Dorothy," and I looked all around for my Dorothy. I don't know why mom said that when Dorothy wasn't there. So Kandis is fun and gives me lots of treats and says a lot of the same things Dorothy said. We are doing something called rehearsing every Thursday night. We have to drive farther than we did before, but I love riding, so that is ok with me. 

People wonder if I get confused when they call me Toto instead of Lexi. Heck no...I know it really means, "Lexi, you are going to get lots of treats and attention!" So I always answer to Toto. Wouldn't you?

Wishing you lots of treats.

Lexi the Toto]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Snow! Greenies! Visits!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/646826</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 4 Jan 2010 18:27:01 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/646826</guid>
		<description>I am back from the great North! No one told me about the snow, and, being a Georgia peach, I had plu ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I am back from the great North! No one told me about the snow, and, being a Georgia peach, I had plum forgotten. Me and mom and dad headed out in the car, and, after several hours, I had to do you-know-what. So dad stopped for gas, then put my leash on me and walked me around. Only I couldn't find any grass! No, not even any dirt! Next thing I know, dad had dumped me in this cold, white stuff. When I recovered from the shock, I bunny hopped around in it and found I could turn it yellow, then back-kick lots of it on top to make it white again. What fun! When I leaped back into the car onto Mom's lap, I was white all over.  She squealed, grabbed a blanket and wrapped me up in it. For once, I didn't fight the blanket wrap. It felt good to be in a warm blanket while the white stuff they call snow melted all around me. 

We stayed in the same hotel where I sleep in the great big huge bed and eat scrambled eggs in the morning. Dad said I had to be very quiet in the room while they went out to catch the chicken so they could get my eggs--otherwise, I might scare away the chicken and then no eggs. It took them awhile to catch that durned chicken, but I was rewarded with a plate of nice warm scrambled eggs. Later, mom said she doesn't know why we get a king sized bed, when she and dad and I all sleep so close we only take up about 1 foot of it. I think my mom is funny sometimes.

After breakfast we went on up to Illinois to visit my grandma and grandpa and aunts and uncles and all their pooches. We had Christmas all over again, and wouldn't you know it, someone bought me clothes. I could have barked for joy when mom said, no, Lexi hates clothes. Then she tried one of them on me to prove they were too small anyhow, and took it right back off.  I did get some tennis balls, but I got hit in the eye and on top of the head with one because I was too distracted to play. I was kinda scared of the balls for a while after that, but I am over it now. I don't know why no one bought me treats.

I want you to know, I made up for the lack of treats after I got home. Mom and dad went to work the next day after getting home, and I headed straight for the big bucket of greenies. Wasn't it sweet of them to leave the greenies where I could reach them with no trouble!? I ate about half of them. Then I took one upstairs to the bedroom so I could eat it later. But my tummy was too full, so I just carried it around that night. In fact, my tummy was so full that I didn't eat my dinner that night or my breakfast or dinner the next day. 

Then I went and stayed with my auntie Jennefer, my bestest friend. I was so embarrassed when she told mom that my poop was bright green! Now, I wonder what could have caused that? While I was there, my schnauzer buddy Milo said it would be fun to attack the cat that lives with them. He said the cat hasn't been feeling well, so we should have a pretty easy time of it. Auntie Jen broke that up really fast, and didn't she go and tell my mom! Mom was mad at me for 2 whole days and wouldn't play with me or give me treats. Wow, I don't think I will do that again. Actually, mom made me promise that I wouldn't, and then she forgave me and we made up. 

Now my sisters are here and she's sharing my greenies with them. If you know anything about schnauzers, you know we don't like to share. It's bad enough I have to share my house and yard with them every other week. Well, it's bedtime, and I want to go get in my kennel so my sister Lily doesn't try to get in it first. I am going to go wait in my kennel for my night-night treat.

I hope you all had good holidays and got lots of treats, cause I don't want to have to share mine.

Lexi, the selfish schnauzer]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Freestyle</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/640238</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 5 Dec 2009 08:47:41 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/640238</guid>
		<description>Hi doggie friends,

Mom and I are now doing Freestyle dancing. We go to a fun place where a teache ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi doggie friends,

Mom and I are now doing Freestyle dancing. We go to a fun place where a teacher shows mom how to dance, then I do it with her. It's a little different than ballroom dancing. I don't stand up on my hind legs and move around like when we ballroom dance. Instead, I follow mom and sometimes she follows what I want to do. There's cool music, like Dan Landrum and his hammered dulcimer. My friend Pam and her schnauzer Sophie and her daughter (and my friend) Savannah were there. Pam and Sophie were dancing, too. Once again, I get lots of treats. Life is very good.

Lexi the Freestyle Dog]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Vacation fun</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/628310</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 15 Oct 2009 17:18:49 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/628310</guid>
		<description>Hello fellow woofers. As usual, I was right. Mom and dad and I went on vacation. My step-sisters did ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello fellow woofers. As usual, I was right. Mom and dad and I went on vacation. My step-sisters didn't get to go (yahoo!). We went to a motel in Chicago where I had my own big bed to sleep in, and, as usual, got scrambled eggs for breakfast. I was a very good girl and didn't bark or leave poopy presents. Then we went to a cabin on a lake in Wisconsin. I liked going down to the lake and hanging out with my mom and we even went on an old pontoon boat. It wasn't as nice as my boat, but I still liked the ride. Later in the week we moved to a place called a bed and breakfast. Some bed! I had to sleep in a kennel. I did get a good breakfast of leftovers from the night before. Yummmm. I heard that my dad used to own the house a long time ago and that is the only reason why I was allowed to stay there. I don't understand why they don't allow dogs. Bud lives there, and he is a dog. At least I think Bud lives there and I think he is a dog. I never really saw him until the morning we were leaving, and, from across the yard, he looked more like a hairy footstool. He's something called a Puli. Ever heard of that, my fine furry friends? No, me either.  Travelling was a lot of fun, especially all the new smells. There just isn't enough time in the day to take them all in. It is still good to be home in my own kennel every night, drinking out of my own water bottle. "There's no place like home."

Lexi the travelling dog]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Are we going away?</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/619105</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 5 Sep 2009 11:11:45 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/619105</guid>
		<description>Something is definitely going on around here. My travel bag is out and mom is putting some of my foo ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Something is definitely going on around here. My travel bag is out and mom is putting some of my food and favorite toys and a ball and my bone in it. I think we are going somewhere. I bet mom is taking me to a hotel again, where I get to sleep in a big bed and eat scrambled eggs for breakfast. Then there are all the new, nifty smells. I hope I get to dance and eat lots of treats, too. Oh, wait, I didn't see her pack any t-r-e-a-t-s. (He, he, she thinks I can't spell!)  Iwill have to remind her about the treats.

Hmm, now it is starting to make sense that mom and dad were counting on their fingers how many different states I have been in (7) and how many I have stayed overnight in (5)--which, of course, is different than how many I have slept in. :} I will let ya'all know what happens. 

Lexi the traveller]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Running around plungers for treats</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/618939</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 4 Sep 2009 13:04:10 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/618939</guid>
		<description>Hi fellow canines,

I think mom has officially lost her mind. She has me running around toilet plu ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi fellow canines,

I think mom has officially lost her mind. She has me running around toilet plungers she has set up in the living room. Mom got this idea from my agility class. Yeah, there are a bunch of these plunger thingies set up in a row right down the middle of the living room. She puts a treat in her hand and weaves it through the plungers for me to follow, while she keeps saying, "weave, weave, weave."  I think she is trying to teach me something, but I am concentrating so hard on the hand that has the treat, that is all I can think about.

OK, you may say I am the one who has lost my mind for actually doing it, but what you don't know is that I follow the treat. Yes, always follow the treat.

Lexi, the plunger dog]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Therapy and Agility</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/616803</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 25 Aug 2009 19:16:35 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/616803</guid>
		<description>Hi friends, especially all my new friends at T.C. Thompson Children's Hospital.  I got to visit with ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi friends, especially all my new friends at T.C. Thompson Children's Hospital.  I got to visit with some cool teens yesterday. You guys really know how to pet a dog and scratch the best places. I wanted to stay and visit longer, but Mom only had an hour, so we had to leave. Although I want to come back soon, I have to wait until September 24. I really like Fifi, too. She gives me good treats. I saw where she got them, so I jumped on the chair next to the treat jar to try to save her the trouble of getting me more. I stretched as high as I could, but couldn't quite reach it. She saw me trying and helped me out. She's a good one, that gal. I like her, too.  

I went to my agility class last night. I keep my eyes on where the treats are so I can skip the table and jumps and stuff and go right to the treat. Mom says I am not supposed to do that, so I try to do all the obstacles in between. Sometimes, though, I just can't help myself!
Next Monday is my final class in this series, and my dad is going to come watch me run the course and get my certificate. I hope this time I get something better than a tasteless piece of paper!

It's pretty boring around here tonight, so I think I will go to bed and wait for my night-night treat.

Lexi the sleepy dog]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Agility II</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/613177</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 11 Aug 2009 16:45:04 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/613177</guid>
		<description>I just finished my third Agility II class. I ran faster than anyone and did everything right. I LOVE ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I just finished my third Agility II class. I ran faster than anyone and did everything right. I LOVE my agility class. I love jumping and running through tunnels and up and down boards. I especially love all the treats. Wow, it is sooooo much fun. People are starting to watch me, and I love that too. Mom says I am her superstar.

Mom took off my leash and said, "Are you ready?" In answer, I shot forward, leaped over the hurdle and on to the next obstacle, with Mom trying to catch up. (he, he, he). In the distance, we could hear the trainer saying, "I guess she was ready!"

Lexi the agility dog]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Graduated!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/605381</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 14 Jul 2009 14:09:17 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/605381</guid>
		<description>I passed my agility test yesterday and got a paper certificate. It wasn't a big deal like my Annie A ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I passed my agility test yesterday and got a paper certificate. It wasn't a big deal like my Annie Award. I love my Annie Award. Mom seemed really happy, though, and gave me and Lily and Ivy doggie ice cream when we got home. Now she says we are going for the advanced class. I want to go do dance, and she says we can do that too. 

I love being busy and doin stuff with my mom. :)

Lexi, the graduate]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Dog Dancing?</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/605033</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 13 Jul 2009 11:59:23 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/605033</guid>
		<description>You may have heard that tonight is my last agility class. Which, of course, means my mom had to find ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ You may have heard that tonight is my last agility class. Which, of course, means my mom had to find something else for us to do. She went to a doggie free-style dance competition and is telling me we are going to start dancing together. I used to go to help mom and Jeff teach ballroom dance, and I am pretty good at rumba and vienese waltz. I hope I can dance one of those. In any case, Mom said I will dance the sox off all those other dogs. I know she is right. Because I am...

Lexi, the dancing dog]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Agility Classes</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/604602</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 11 Jul 2009 17:13:54 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/604602</guid>
		<description>Hi friends,

Last time we met, I was wondering about this agility class my mom signed me up for. N ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi friends,

Last time we met, I was wondering about this agility class my mom signed me up for. Now I am going to my last class (class #6) this Monday. It has been a blast! I get more treats there than anywhere. It's been wonderful! All I have to do is stuff that is fun to get a treat. I run through tunnels, sit, stay, walk, jump over sticks, run up and down boards, and always, at the end, there is a treat. Sometimes I get treats just because people like me. Treats, treats, treats!

Mom says I am precocious. Dad says I am an over-achiever. 

I knew I was supposed to weave through those sticks and did it. Why did they want me to just run down the middle to start? That was stupid. Mom gave me a treat anyhow, cause she says I still did it right, even if it wasn't what they wanted. 

Then there is the thing of following Mom's hand around her in circles. She had a treat in each hand. She told me to walk, so I stood up on my hind legs and walked, just like she had taught me to do at home.  And I waved my front paws while I walked, because it helps me keep my balance and everyone thinks it is cute. Cute winds treats. That also puts me closer to the treats.  I made her happy. She laughed and gave me treats. 

I expect to pass my test on Monday and gets lots more treats. I wonder what Mom will have for me to do next to get lots of treats...

Lexi, The Agility Dog

P.S. I see my schnauzer friend, Sophie, at class too.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Agility training</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/592256</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 29 May 2009 15:04:30 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/592256</guid>
		<description>Mom came home last night stinking like other dogs. She was at a place where they train dogs. She sai ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom came home last night stinking like other dogs. She was at a place where they train dogs. She said she was just looking around, but I could smell the other dogs on her and I don't like that.

Then she told me she will start taking me there in about a week. I am going to learn something called agility. We are going to run and turn and jump and laugh and have fun. Wow, I can hardly wait.  I will let you know if it is a good thing.

Lexi, the Agility To Be Dog]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Therapy for kids</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/592254</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 29 May 2009 15:00:19 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/592254</guid>
		<description>Mom took me to a hospital for really sick kids yesterday. They didn't look all that sick, not puking ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom took me to a hospital for really sick kids yesterday. They didn't look all that sick, not puking or coughing or anything. But they were in bed with their jammies on and needles with tubes stuck in their arms and all that. So I will just believe mom when she said they needed a lot of Lexi love. Their moms were all with them, and they all smiled and seemed really happy to see me too. I went from room to room and jumped up on the bed with the little person (sometimes mom had to lift me up cause the beds were really high). They went from looking sad to happy when they saw me, and most of them pet me a lot. One even started to cry when I left, so I went back in to see him. Gee, he wasn't much bigger than me.

 I liked it lots and want to go back soon, but mom said I can only go once a month--that's the rule because there are so many other dogs that want to come get pet by the kids. I wish some of them would find somewhere else to go so I could go more. Oh, and mom got a calling card made with my beautiful picture and information about me on it. She gave one to each of the kids, and they smiled when they looked at it. It said I love treats, so maybe next time....

Lexi, the Therapy for Kids Dog]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My sisters are on Dogster</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/583884</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 29 Apr 2009 20:40:06 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/583884</guid>
		<description>Oh great. (You know I am being sarcastic, here.) Why can't I have anything all my own anymore? Lily  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Oh great. (You know I am being sarcastic, here.) Why can't I have anything all my own anymore? Lily and Ivy come over and I have to share my toys and share my mom and share my step-dad and share my house, and share my yard, and share my screen house and share, well, you get the picture. Now I have to share Dogster with them. Oh great (that sarcastic thing again).

Let me tell you, it's not easy having them here. Ivy attacked me (can you believe mom said it was my own fault!). I didn't get hurt, but I screamed a lot. Now I am much more respectful of Ivy. I sorta, kinda, admire her, too. I am thinking about trying to be more like her. She is the boss. 

Then there's Lily. She just wants to play with me all the time. That gets on my nerves. I try to keep her in her place, but sometimes she doesn't put up with that. Hmmm. Just so she doesn't go in my kennel or eat my cheese. My kennel, my cheese. Mine, I tell you!

At least this week they are not here and I have everyone and everything all to myself, just the way I like it. 

Lexi, the Encroached Upon]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Still therapizing</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/579272</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 14 Apr 2009 16:42:00 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/579272</guid>
		<description>Hi ya'll. 

I have gone and done therapy twice now at this Siskin Rehab Hospital place. You want t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi ya'll. 

I have gone and done therapy twice now at this Siskin Rehab Hospital place. You want to hear something funny? When Mom tells people what I do, sometimes they ask if I am getting therapy. And this is even after she has told them where I am doing it, at a people hospital. So she said next time, she will say, you know dogs can have health insurance now, so the hospitals have to treat them. It's part of Obama's stimulus plan. Then she'll sit back and wait for them to get it. 

I think she needs to say I am a therapy dog. That would clear it up right away. She thinks the other way will be more fun. 

Anyhow, I didn't mean to go down a bunny trail. Although usually I do mean to, 'cause I can smell them.

Since both sessions were really uneventful, Mom says I should tell ya'll about the second session I did a year or so ago. It was at Siskin, too. There was this young fellow who couldn't seem to move real well. I sat on a stool next to him and made him pet me. You know what I mean--I kept scooting my nose under his hand so he didn't have much choice. Every time he stopped, I scooted my nose again. I did that for about 15 minutes, and would have gone a lot longer, but Mom said that was enough. As we started walking away, I heard the guy's therapist say, that was really good--you lifted your hand! Wow, he must have really like me!!

Keep barking!

Lexi the Therapy Dog]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>&quot;Good work if you can get it&quot;</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/571678</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:47:31 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/571678</guid>
		<description>I have started my work again as a therapy dog. Mom says I should tell about how my first session wen ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I have started my work again as a therapy dog. Mom says I should tell about how my first session went almost 2 years ago. So here goes:
A big man who worked there asked if he could pet me. He pet me a lot, which I thought was the patients' jobs, but he seemed to need that. When we walked away, I heard the boss tell Mom that this therapist had never before touched a dog there. Then another therapist, a woman,  came up to us and asked Mom if she could take me over to her patient. As I was walking away with her, I could hear the boss tell Mom that this therapist avoided the dogs and had never done this before. On our way out, after I was finished spreading the love, the big man stopped us again and asked if he could hold me. He said there was something really special about me. Duh...we all know that!

Anyhow, I really liked doing this, but didn't get to go back for several months. I will tell you about my second trip there tomorrow. Gotta go help Mom fix some chicken now.

Be good, and if you can't be good, don't get caught!

Lexi the Therapy Dog]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>my grandma died</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/506290</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 16 Sep 2008 22:14:07 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/506290</guid>
		<description>Mommy said my grandma died. I am not sure what that means, except it is very sad. She said we can't  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mommy said my grandma died. I am not sure what that means, except it is very sad. She said we can't go see her at the nursing home anymore. That make me very sad too. I am always so happy to go visit with her. It makes her very happy too. I won't even stop to do pet therapy stuff on my way to her room, I am always so excited to know I am going to see her again. I really don't understand why we can't go any more...I love my grandma. 

Sadly,

Lexi]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Christmas</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/409391</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 4 Jan 2008 11:37:53 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/409391</guid>
		<description>Wow, this Christmas thing is really nice. It sneaks up on me every year, but this year I knew there  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Wow, this Christmas thing is really nice. It sneaks up on me every year, but this year I knew there was something in one of the pretty bags just for me--I could smell it and mommy kept telling me to leave it alone. Sure enough, it was a new chew bone filled with rawhide! And I got a new Quack-quack.  The quacker broke in my old one, but this one works really good. I was so excited when I got it I wiggled all over.

Christmas Eve I went to the nursing home to see my grandma. We had pizza. It was good. I love my grandma.

My people brothers stayed all night on Christmas Eve and I got to jump on Adam Christmas morning to wake him up. He was sleeping on the couch and didn't want to get up. So I wiggled and stood on him and dug in next to him until he finally succumbed to my charms. In the middle of it all I had to stop to run in and tell my other big brother Andrew that I was busy with Adam and I would be back to get him up, too. He didn't wait for me, though. 

The day after Christmas I went to Siskin Hospital to work. They call me a pet therapy dog. It's really lots of fun. I sit next to people and let them pet me. I like some people more than others, and when I find them I won't let them stop petting me. They smile and I wag a lot. Mom says it's good work if you can get it.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Grand Illumination</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/406420</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 27 Dec 2007 13:24:58 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/406420</guid>
		<description>Hey ya'all,

I got to be on-stage again. I am such an on-stage type of Schnauzer! I led the cast o ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hey ya'all,

I got to be on-stage again. I am such an on-stage type of Schnauzer! I led the cast of performers onto the stage at the riverfront for Chattanooga's Grand Illumination performances. Then I got to walk out on stage again with my mom  and Santa held and petted me while she danced. When the show was over, the Christmas light were turned on all over the city. 

While I was on Santa's lap, I asked for good chew bones. I think I will get them, because I have been a very good dog this year. 

Merry Christmas to everyone.

Lexi]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I WON, I WON, I WON!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/356177</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 25 Aug 2007 06:13:20 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/356177</guid>
		<description>I won a Miss Annie Award at the Chattanooga Theatre Center for my role as Toto in The Wizard of Oz!  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I won a Miss Annie Award at the Chattanooga Theatre Center for my role as Toto in The Wizard of Oz! I am so excited! I licked the award a lot last night and watched it closely when mom let someone else hold it. I won, I won, I won! Mommy put it on a shelf on the wall with my headshot as Toto and the program for the play. I won! Yeah! I ran up on stage when Mom told me and everyone clapped for me just like when I was in the play. I love being on the stage. Since I can't really hold the award with my paws, mom came up on stage too and accepted the award for me. I leaned into the microphone to say something and everyone kind of giggled, then I changed my mind and let mom talk. 

I got to help Dorothy present an award to someone else, too. I ran up on stage on my cue, just like always, and everyone said, "Ahhhhw" and laughed like when I played Toto. Dorothy held me for a while, then I just stood there with her and my director Geoffrey and followed her off the stage as usual. Did I say I love the stage? I love Dorothy too. I love treats, too, and I got a lot of them last night--cheese, crackers, cake--all yum! 

Mom will post a picture when we get them. Until then, keep dogstering! Woof!!

Lexi-Toto]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>my screen house</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/327496</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 22 Jun 2007 10:56:20 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/327496</guid>
		<description>Mom finally put my screen house up in my back yard. She thought it was her screen house. Isn't she s ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom finally put my screen house up in my back yard. She thought it was her screen house. Isn't she silly? I can scoot right under the screen to get in it. I like to sit in there where it is shady and feel the breeze. I also wait for a bird to get in. I remember last summer when birds would somehow get inside, and I would have to take charge in chasing them out. Now I am going to wait for them. Won't they be surprised!

Woof!

Lexi the screen house dog]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>boating time</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/319101</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 2 Jun 2007 14:22:57 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/319101</guid>
		<description>My boat is in the water! I have had so much fun on it this summer. I mostly lay around and sun my be ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My boat is in the water! I have had so much fun on it this summer. I mostly lay around and sun my beautiful body. Sometimes I lay in the shade and eat snacks. Sometimes I swim to a nearby island and smell all the lucious smells. Last Sunday I got a bit hot so I went to the edge of my pontoon boat to let mom know I wanted to cool off in the water. What did she do? She reached for my life jacket. I hate that thing. It ranks right up there with clothes.  She could tell I didn't want to wear it, so she said she would make a deal with me. I wouldn't have to wear it if I stayed close to the boat. I thought, ok, no problem. Mom lowered me into the water (I still don't like to jump in) and I swam around the boat twice before asking her to help me back in. Mom says I am the smartest schnauzer girl ever. 

I have a good life. 

Lexi the boat dog]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Visiting</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/298050</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 16 Apr 2007 11:42:58 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/298050</guid>
		<description>I had a big day on Saturday. Sohie, my new Schnauzer friend from Dunlap came over with her Mom and m ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I had a big day on Saturday. Sohie, my new Schnauzer friend from Dunlap came over with her Mom and my Mom gave her her first groom. She is almost 7 months old and she has managed to not get groomed all this time. I will have to ask her her secret. Now that her mom knows how to do it, I think she will be getting it more often. Then Mom groomed me. Sophie's mom said I was soooo good.

After that, Mom took me to my Grandma's and let me stay with her for a few hours. Grandma was very happy that I was there, but I was bored. It was so hot in Grandma's apartment that I just slept the whole time.

I have put on 2 pounds from all the treats when I was Toto. Now, I know that doesn't sound like a lot, but it is over 10% of my body weight. Mom said that would be like her putting on almost 15 pounds. We have to exercise more, which means going to the park more. Yeah! We went to the park only once last week, and then the weather got cold again. I hope it warms up soon so mom takes me to the park to run, run, run.

Woof!! Be good!

Lexi]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>My first trip to a nursing home and Coyotes</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/286213</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 20 Mar 2007 15:11:54 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/286213</guid>
		<description>It&acirc;€™s been a while since mom has helped me write in my diary. She started working at a place where  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Itâ€™s been a while since mom has helped me write in my diary. She started working at a place where she is doing accounting. I keep hearing her say she hates it. I donâ€™t like when mommy isnâ€™t happy. She doesnâ€™t play with me enough. I think if she played with me more she would feel better. I think she should just stay home and take me to the park. The weather is nice and I could run, run, run. Then we would both feel better. 

 Mom came home early on Friday and took me to a nursing home. At first I thought I was going to see my grandma who lives near there, but I got to see lots and lots of older folks instead. They all talked to me nice and petted me. Mom told everyone about me being Toto in the Wizard of Oz. I wore the button with me and Dorothy on it on my collar. I think they liked that. I felt very proud. There were a lot of cookie crumbs and I cleaned them up for everyone. I am a good helper. Mom says I am a therapy dog now. I hope I donâ€™t have to learn a new name again, like I did for the play. I got really thirsty and whined and mom said we could go. She promised to bring me water the next time we visit. It is really hot in there, and smells funny too, like stuff I am not allowed to do in the house. 

Saturday I get to see my good friends Piper and Marley. We are all going to get tested to be therapy dogs for hospitals that take care of children. I like all the children petting me. I am sooooo sure I will pass whatever the test is. I hear that Marley is a little worried about this because she never liked kids. I think I will talk to her about it. After all, I never liked kids either until the Wizard of Oz. I will let her know they are really ok. 

There are coyotes in my city. They are kind of like dogs only wild and mean and kill little dogs and little kids. Mom read about it in the paper. It said some coyotes killed a Schnauzer in her own front yard. One of Momâ€™s friends killed a coyote with his car late one night a couple of months ago. He had to get his car fixed, too.  Even though I have a fenced yard, Mom is now afraid to leave me out alone at night. She stands at the door and watches. She says daytime is ok, because the coyotes only come out at night. I wonder what they do all day? I hope there arenâ€™t any near our house. I hope one gets in the other fence with Stitch, my neighbor Doberman. He will rip it apart. Maybe then the other coyotes will be afraid to go in the fences in my neighborhood. I am going to stay good friends with Stitch. 

 Everyone be happy and stay away from the coyotes and play with kids and visit old people. (Mom says I am bossy.)

Woof, woof!

Lexi]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Super Bowl Sunday</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/269099</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 8 Feb 2007 09:46:11 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/269099</guid>
		<description>I was right! Super Bowl Sunday was so much fun. My friends Marley and her mom Jennefer went to Cleve ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I was right! Super Bowl Sunday was so much fun. My friends Marley and her mom Jennefer went to Cleveland with me and my mom to visit my brother. We got to go to the pet store while we were there. All Marley wanted to do was ride on her mom's hip. I smelled everything in the store! During the times we had to wait in the car we planned how much fun we were going to have when we got back to my house. 

Then Marleys brother Piper and their dad joined us for the big game. Marley played with me a lot, but all Piper wanted to do was hug his mom and get on my mom's lap. He wasn't in on the planning earlier, so he must not have known it was play time. 

Just like I thought, there was yummy food. I ate lots of chips and dip and Jennefer brought me wonderful doggie cookies. The first one got stuck on the roof of my mouth and I couldn't get it loose. Mom had to pull it off. That felt very strange. I was more careful after that to bite the next one  into pieces. All us Schnauzers fell asleep before the game was over and I was really ready to got straight to  bed when everyone left.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Elevator</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/268263</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 6 Feb 2007 09:17:25 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/268263</guid>
		<description>I had my first ride in an elevator. Mom carried me onto it. It started to go up and when she tried t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I had my first ride in an elevator. Mom carried me onto it. It started to go up and when she tried to put me down I clung onto her like crazy. No way was I going to stand on this thing that was moving under us. She caught me with her knee as I was sliding off her and she saved me. I got to visit my Grandma in her new apartment and then mom held me on the elevator ride back down.

A  few days later Iwent back to see grandma and had to go on this elevator thing again. Mom tricked me--just walked right onto it with me on my leash. I was looking at this person that I thought would pet me and wasn't paying enough attention to where I was going. I could feel it begin to move, but I kept my eye on that bright metal circle in the middle. I think that was the thing making it all happen. We made it up ok and I was so happy to see my grandma again. Grandma had a piece of toast all ready just for me. Mom thought she tricked me again when we left, but I knew that as long as I watched that circle thing, it would be ok. Now I know to just watch the circle and I will be ok on the elevator. I just wanted to share that with all of you so you would know to just watch that metal circle and you don't need to be afraid to go on an elevator. 

Woof, woof,

Lexi-the-brave-elevator-riding-schnauzer]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Can't go to Grandma's anymore</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/266605</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 2 Feb 2007 09:50:27 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/266605</guid>
		<description>My grandma moved out of our apartment (hers and mine) and I am not allowed to stay all day with her  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My grandma moved out of our apartment (hers and mine) and I am not allowed to stay all day with her anymore. There's only a hallway on the other side of her front door, and she can't tie me out anymore when I want to go outside. I heard mom promise her that I could still sometimes come and stay for a little while. I wish my grandma didn't move. She's been getting very confused, but she still knew who I was and always smiled and talked nice to me and gave me toast. I love my grandma. 

I am going to see my good friends Jennefer and Piper and Marley on Sunday. We are going to go see my big brother Adam and go to the pet store. I bet we all get something good. I should, since I am a very, very good girl.  Afterward, there is something called the super bowl. I wonder if that is a great big bowl full of yummy food. Mmmmmm. I am starting to drool.

Everyone have a good Super Bowl Sunday and don't get a tummy ache.

Woof, woof,

Lexi]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Snuggling with a cat</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/258784</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 15 Jan 2007 11:34:01 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/258784</guid>
		<description>I found out cats are ok. I have never had much luck with them in the past. They either tried to kill ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I found out cats are ok. I have never had much luck with them in the past. They either tried to kill me (mom says I am a bit melodramatic with this) or got me in trouble by making me cross the street to chase then, or just scared me a lot. Here's what happened:

Mom went away and my really good friend Jennefer picked me up to stay with her and her 2 schnauzers, Piper and Marley. I didn't know there was going to be a cat involved! But sure enough, there was a cat in her house, big as day. Not only that, Piper and Marley played with her. Can you believe it? When she started trying to get me to chase her for fun, I didn't trust her. I have been tricked like that before. She was so persistent about it that I finally couldn't help myself--I chased her. Then she chased me, but not mean-like. She was kind of laughing, in a cat way. Then she let me chase her some more. I like this cat. I drew the line on cuddling with her like little Marley does. I did cuddle with Marley, though. Everyone cuddles with Marley. 

The last night I was there both my dog friends went to stay with their grandmothers and I got to cuddle in bed all night with their mom and dad all by myself. No other dogs to take the attention I should be getting.  I hope Jennefer comes and gets me again sometime. The next night I got to stay with my grandma and sleep under the covers with her and eat toast and jam the next morning. I love my grandma.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A suprise jump</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/247174</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 20 Dec 2006 15:11:24 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/247174</guid>
		<description>It's almost Christmas and there are lots of presents under the tree! I have smelled them all and I d ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It's almost Christmas and there are lots of presents under the tree! I have smelled them all and I don't think mine is there. I sure hope mom didn't forget to get it. I wonder where it is...

Today I really suprised mom when she came home from work. I jumped right up on the dining room table without even jumping first on the chair!!! She lifted me off, so I showed her again what I could do.  Then I did it again!! I think she was very impressed. Mom said not to do that, but I don't think she meant it. It is much easier for her to pet me if I am up there. 

I didn't go to my grandma's for a whole week. She was too sick for me to stay with her. I sure did miss her and she said she missed me a lot too. She is better now and I am getting my toast again. 

Mommy was going to let my hair keep growing all winter since it was already long from being Toto. Then she said she couldn't stand it anymore, and the weather kept being warm, so she groomed me. She didn't cut it as short as usual in case we get a cold snap. And here I thought I was safe until next year. One just never knows when one will be swept up to be groomed or bathed. I am playing it safe now about the baths. Whenever mom goes into the downstairs bathroom I run into another room and if she runs the water I try to hide.  So far it works most of the time.

Mom has to go fix dinner now, so she said I should wish all my Dogster friends a Merry Christmas!!

Woof, woof, woof.

Lexi]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My friends got a puppy</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/232790</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 15 Nov 2006 09:55:54 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/232790</guid>
		<description>I didn't get to go to help teach dance last week, and mom came home smelling like new puppy. I tried ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I didn't get to go to help teach dance last week, and mom came home smelling like new puppy. I tried to ignore it so she wouldn't know I could tell, but she stank of it. Then she confessed that my good friends in Dunlap got a new Schnauzer puppy from my breeder, but that they still love me too.  Then the new puppy got her own dogster page and asked me to be friends. What could I do?! Mom said I should be nice and accept, so I even sent a nice note. Maybe we will get to play together sometime. Mom said the classes are over for the year, so I won't get to see those friends for a long time (unless they come to Chattanooga to visit me!).

Mom says I am going to get to go to places called assisted care and nursing homes to visit with old people. I know how to do that. I wonder if they will all give me toast like my grandma? They are going to pet me lots and I will be real nice to everyone. I wonder if I will have to have a new name like I did for the play? I will let you know, so everyone knows what to call me when they want to give me a treat!

I have started going back to the park on the weekends because the weather is nice and I don't go to the theater any more.  I love to run, run, run...

Woof, woof,
Lexi]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Rocktober Fest</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/223639</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 24 Oct 2006 13:56:41 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/223639</guid>
		<description>Hi Ya'all,

I got to go to Rock City to celebrate Rocktober Fest. As I was going in I jumped up ov ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi Ya'all,

I got to go to Rock City to celebrate Rocktober Fest. As I was going in I jumped up over a rock wall onto what I thought would be a nice grassy bank where I could smell all the other dogs that had been there. Imagine my suprise when, instead of grass, there was a water fountain! I went in up to my chest before my mom grabbed me out so I wouldn't drown.  Boy, was that water cold! 

Mom helped teach a dance called polka and I danced with her for a little bit. There were good trails and I could smell other dogs on them, but mom said we would go another time when there wasn't so much dancing to do. My bestest friend Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz was there, and so was the Tin Man. Dorothy took me around to meet people and everyone naturally adored me, Toto.  

I haven't been going to grandma's much lately 'cause mom has been home. She isn't working and has a cold and doesn't want to play much. Once in a while she will throw the ball for me or play keep away with Quack Quack. Then she lights the fireplace and we curl up on the couch and take a nap.    

Mom says she is going to work tomorrow and I can go stay with my grandma again. I like that--she makes me toast with yummy jam on it and always says really nice things to me. She lets me get in her bed and burrow down under the covers to the bottom where I snooze all morning, except to get my toast.  Mom says she is going to the kitchen to make some desserts now, so catch you all later.
Woof!
Lexi]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Dorothy-Kim</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/217189</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 8 Oct 2006 16:19:56 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/217189</guid>
		<description>Mom told me she had this funny thought about when I go over to Dorothy's house (you know, Dorothy, f ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom told me she had this funny thought about when I go over to Dorothy's house (you know, Dorothy, from the Wizard of Oz) and meet her dog Graham. Graham is going to say, "Why do you keep saying 'Dorothy'?" 
 
And of course I will reply with, "Because that is her name."
 
 After a few rebuttals back and forth (which I hope doesn't turn into a fight) Graham may come up with "I knew it! My mom is leading a double life. The first clue should have been when she came home smelling like you! By day, my sweet, innocent Mommy Kim. By night, well, I don't know what the h..l she does with you! But she's had your stink on her for weeks now." 
 
Me: "I hear people say I may be going to have an identity crisis. Do you think that is what is happening to Dorothy-Kim?"
 
Graham: "I don't know what that is. Let's play." 

Isn't my mommy funny? Everyone knows my friend's name is Dorothy!

Lexi]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Dance in Dunlap</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/213586</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 30 Sep 2006 10:47:32 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/213586</guid>
		<description>Tonight is dance in Dunlap again. I went last week and really yelled at everyone. I was making up fo ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Tonight is dance in Dunlap again. I went last week and really yelled at everyone. I was making up for lost time. And I wouldn't go to the girls when they called me either. I am mad at them because they didn't come and see me all summer when mom wasn't taking me there. I think they should have come to see me, don't you? I am not sure if I will let them pet me tonight. I am still getting a lot of petting at the theater, so I don't really need more. (Why is mom laughing??)
 
Mom has started putting good stuff on my food in the morning. She says she wants me to start eating every morning because I am getting too thin. I don't always do what she wants, but my goodness, this stuff is good. 
 
I am going to rest some more now so I have lots of energy to go to dance tonight. I sure hope we stop at McDonalds again so I can have french fries. Mmmm.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Annie Awards</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/210542</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 23 Sep 2006 08:59:43 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/210542</guid>
		<description>You should have seen me at the Annnie Awards a week or two before the show opened. I wore a white tu ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ You should have seen me at the Annnie Awards a week or two before the show opened. I wore a white tux collar and red bow tie--I just knew clothes were going to enter into this at some point! (Mom says it was, after all, a black tie affair.) Mom wore a red gown to match my tie. I worked the crowd. Pet me, feed me, adore me. And they did. After the social hour in the lobby, I sat on mom's lap for the awards in the auditorium (the one where I will be performing). At first, all the clapping, yelling and hooting bothered me. After about 20 minutes I decided it didn't matter and settled down to watch the awards, even taking a little nap at the end. Then back to the lobby for dessert! I found the cream puff table and stood with my front paws on it, looking longingly at the treats--not without reward! The director is extremely impressed with my behavior, everyone's reactions to me and my reactions back to them. What does he expect? When I am nice everyone feeds me treats and pets me. Isn't that what life is all about, anyhow?  So mom says I don't have to wear any more clothes during the play. That's good. Now, if I could just get rid of those darned flying monkeys.

Woof, woof!
LexiToto]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I am the star</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/210390</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 22 Sep 2006 20:30:09 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/210390</guid>
		<description>I am the star. That's what everyone says. They say I steal the show, but honest, I didn't steal anyt ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I am the star. That's what everyone says. They say I steal the show, but honest, I didn't steal anything. I just run out on the stage (most of the time) when Mom says, and get treats, and run off. Now I have found that I can go down the front stairs off the stage into the audience. That' a hoot. Mom seems kinda freaked out when I get back, though. And those monkeys--oooooh I don't like those monkeys. I run as fast as I can when I see them coming and mom picks me up. But then she hands me to one of the monkeys! So last time they came after me, I ran into my kennel off-stage where I would be safe. Just when I came out of my kennel, thinking they were all gone, mom picked me up and handed me to one of them again. I don't know how I am going to stop her from doing this. Doesn't she know they are scary??
 
So here I am, the star of the Wizard of Oz, and Mom still comes home at lunch and gives me a bath. The indignity of it all! I thought I was safe at my grandma's, but no, here mom comes with shampoo and a towel and sticks me in the sink. I can't wait to get back outside and get this shampoo smell off of me. At least she hasn't tried to make me wear clothes lately. That's even worse than a bath. 
 
I get to go to Dunlap tonight and help teach dance. I haven't gone in a long time. I missed the first 2 lessons because I had to go to rehearsal and face the flying monkeys. Of course, there were lots of treats and fun, too. Mom says some of the people who love me are still there in Dunlap, and there are new people, too, to love me. I am so excited, I can hardly wait. I wish we could go now. I don't understand why we can't go right now. I think mom should come home from this work place where she always says she is going and take me to dance. Doesn't she know I want to go now? Now, now, now, now, now. 
 
Woof!
 
Lexi]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I made the paper</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/199787</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 28 Aug 2006 15:27:33 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/199787</guid>
		<description>When I was a young pup and having a great time chewing to shreds my potty paper, who would have thou ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ When I was a young pup and having a great time chewing to shreds my potty paper, who would have thought that some day I would be a feature  in a newspaper.  (http://www.amysell.com/toto_article.htm) Yep, there I am, posing so beautifully with Dorothy in the Lifestyle section of the Chattanooga Times Free Press. Mom helped me put in a link so you can see it on mom's website.  She says you will have to copy and paste in your address line. 

I sure hope some puppy doesn't peepee on my picture. 

Woof woof

LexiToto]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Publicity pictures</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/195897</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 19 Aug 2006 20:04:51 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/195897</guid>
		<description>I got to go back to the theater center and got interviewed (I tried to answer some of the questions  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I got to go back to the theater center and got interviewed (I tried to answer some of the questions but the lady only wrote down what mommy said), I had my picture taken a bunch with Dorothy. I decided I like having my picture taken and posed very nicely outside right next to Dorothy's red shoes. All of her they got in the picture were her red shoes. Ha, ha, won't she be surprised! The camera lady said I was very photogenic. What's photogenic?
Maybe the lady will give some of the pictures to my mommy and she will put them on my web page.

I followed Dorothy everwhere during rehearsal. I was soooo excited to see her. She came over to my house last week and played with me. Then she came back another day just to take me for ice cream. I wonder how she knew I love ice cream best of all? She is my special friend now. I heard her talking to mommy about coming to see me again. She is going to go to my grandma's and pick me up. She said something about taking me on tv with her. I hope I don't have to sit on the tv. It is up a little too high and I might fall off.

I love rehearsal. I get lots and lots of treats. And lots and lots of petting and "good girls". But especially lots of treats. Everyone is very impressed that I bark when mommy tells me. Once she remembered the right word to tell me to bark, I understood and now I bark every time she says it. 

 It is late and I want to go to bed now. I always get a treat at bedtime!

Woof, woof! (And a special woof at the witch's old hat!!)

LexiToto]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Being Toto isn't easy</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/192354</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 11 Aug 2006 16:46:52 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/192354</guid>
		<description>Man, easy street is over for LexiToto (me). I have to go to rehearsals and get dragged out to Doroth ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Man, easy street is over for LexiToto (me). I have to go to rehearsals and get dragged out to Dorothy where she always picks me up. I'm not liken that at all. But then Dorothy came to my house! and she played ball with me! and she played platty hand puppet with me! and she took me for a walk! and she gave me new treats! She even understands dog-speak!! And she sang to me too! I heard her tell mom she's not going to pick me up any more because I don't like it. Ya know, maybe she's ok after all.  Then we went to the meat market and the butcher came out to see me and brought me a big bone. It is so big I can hardly lift it, and boy oh boy is it good!

Mom got me this super yummy treat that is soft and tastes like peanut butter. She keeps making me roll over on my side before she will give me any. I don't like that. It doesn't feel right. She said something about poppies and looking like I am asleep. Right now, I am hoping she gives up on this "over" thing. What are poppies?

My people cousins from out of town came to visit my grandma today and mom took me over so they could adore me. They were all very nice and pet me lots. I heard them say they were going out to eat, so I gave mom my best poor me look, but she made me stay home anyhow. Just wait until I am a big star--the restaurants will be begging me to come eat there!

Woof, woof!

Lexi]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My audition</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/186211</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 28 Jul 2006 18:31:05 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/186211</guid>
		<description>I had my audition today to be Toto in the Wizard of Oz. It was no big deal. No, really. Mom just ask ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I had my audition today to be Toto in the Wizard of Oz. It was no big deal. No, really. Mom just asked me to do some stuff I do for her all the time anyhow, like sit, down, stay, heel, twirl. Then she gave the good bologna to the guy there and he asked me to heel. He was real impressed, but what did he think, that I was going to let him walk away with my bologna? No way!  Anyhow, I have to go back on Wednesday to play with the rest of the cast. He said something about they would all want to feed me cookies. I don't care if I have to sit or lay down for cookies.  I sit and lay around a lot anyhow, so again, no big deal. Cookies and bologna...I knew this Toto thing was going to be good.

Oh, and better yet, this guy wants mom to let my hair grow out. You know what that means don't you? No grooming!!!! It only keeps getting better and better. Now, if only I don't have to take baths, either...

"I'm off to see the wizard, the wonderful wizard of Oz"  What's Oz?

Woof, woof!

Lexi]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I might be Toto</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/185161</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 26 Jul 2006 16:39:49 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/185161</guid>
		<description>Oh boy, I have an audition to be Toto in the local production of the Wizard of Oz. I am not quite su ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Oh boy, I have an audition to be Toto in the local production of the Wizard of Oz. I am not quite sure what that means, but Mom said that if I get the part, a lot of people will love me. I like that, so I am going to work real hard with mom before we go so I can be Toto. (What's a Toto?) Now I know all my commands with just hand signals. I can sit and down and here and stay and heel and twirl. Now mom is telling me to bark, which is really confusing since she is always telling me to NOT bark. I wish she would make up her mind.

I went to Grandma's this morning but the screen door was locked so mom took me back home and I had to stay by myself all day and I did not get my toast with jam. I made up for it by tearing something up and pooping upstairs. So there! It really seemed like a good idea at the time. But when Mom came home, I felt bad because I knew I had done bad things and I was afraid she would yell at me at call me a "bad dog." I hate that. She didn't yell or anything. She just picked it all up and then worked with me to get ready for this Toto thing.  I got lots of treats, too. Hmmm. I think I like this Toto thing better all the time. 

I will let you know when I find out what Toto is.  Woof! Woof!

Lexi]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Grandma hurt her head</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/171973</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 28 Jun 2006 07:11:42 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/171973</guid>
		<description>Grandma fell down last week in her living room and hit her head and it bled a lot. She is all bruise ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Grandma fell down last week in her living room and hit her head and it bled a lot. She is all bruised on her front and still hurts a lot.  Mom wouldn't let me go get my toast from her last week for a couple of days, and I really missed that, especially the good peach jam she puts on it.  I missed my grandma too. She must have missed me a whole lot because she kept me all day Saturday. I don't really like staying all day. It gets boring. But at least she gives me a lot of good stuff to eat.  Things are back to normal now. I get to spend the morning with her and eat my toast. I am careful to  be real gentle with her and not jump on her where she is hurting. I lay at her feet more, too, because I know she likes that. Mom said we need to pray for her. Maybe other people will too, when they read this. I love my grandma.
Woof, woof,
Lexi]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Screen house</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/163804</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 8 Jun 2006 13:56:32 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/163804</guid>
		<description>I have a new screened in house for when I am outside. Mom thinks it is hers (he, he), but I have fig ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I have a new screened in house for when I am outside. Mom thinks it is hers (he, he), but I have figured out how to scoot under the screening to get in and out of it whenever I want.  Now it is mine.  One of the new neighbor dogs got through the fence and mad a big hole in it and mom had to sew it back together. Then the dog got in again and made more holes. I thought mom would be mad (I know I didn't like this happening to my screen house) but all she did was get some boards and fix the fence so that bad dog couldn't come in our yard anymore. That'll teach it. Sometimes birds get in my screen house. That gets me very excited and I bark until someone comes out and gets them out.  I like my screen house. It is shady and no bugs biting me in there.  I will let people come visit in my screen house as long as they don't rip it and as long as they bring me treats (that's only polite now, isn't it!).

Woof!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>tub misadventure</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/163395</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 7 Jun 2006 13:55:45 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/163395</guid>
		<description>Now I know for sure who is in charge...

When mom puts me in the bathtub for a bath (shower, actua ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Now I know for sure who is in charge...

When mom puts me in the bathtub for a bath (shower, actually), I have gotten in the habit of jumping out before she can squirt me with that nasty water and get my beautiful coat all wet. Saturday mom put me in the tub and told me "don't jump out" but I promise you all I heard was "jump out." So I did. Thought I finally had her trained!  Mom whipped around and looked at me and I looked back and she said in her most mom-like voice, "Get back in that tub." I know my eyes got big, I couldn't believe my ears. Hadn't I just done what she wanted??? I stood there all confused until mom said it again, this time with a bit of a growl in her voice. What could I do? I turned around and jumped back in the tub. Mom just sat there on the floor for a minute with her mouth hanging open. I don't understand people sometimes.  But at least I got a "good girl" for it.  Then I got a bath. She's going to have to work on these rewards.

Woof!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Eye better; market good</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/157630</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 23 May 2006 14:33:24 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/157630</guid>
		<description>My eye is all better now. No more horrible collar thingy. I am free! Life is good again. 

I went  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My eye is all better now. No more horrible collar thingy. I am free! Life is good again. 

I went to the downtown market Sunday and got to see lots of people and dogs. The band was playing and Grandma made me stay with her while Mom danced. I wanted to go out on the dance floor too, but no one would let me. So mom took me out on the dance floor when it was all over and asked me to dance with her, but I didn't want to anymore because the band had quit playing. I saw a couple of my favorite people but no one seemed happy when I jumped up on them and got them all dirty with my paws.  I still had a good time and was exhausted when I got home. 

I am learning Bolero. Mom has a tape, and I watch it with her and watch her practice. I think I can do this. She is going to have to take smaller steps, though. 

More later from the "dancing Scnauzer." (Has a nice sound to it, don't you think?)

Lexi]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My poor eye</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/155638</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 17 May 2006 14:19:41 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/155638</guid>
		<description>Mom said I have a sick eye and that's why she took me to the vet. The vet said I have conjunctivitis ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom said I have a sick eye and that's why she took me to the vet. The vet said I have conjunctivitis. It was really itching, so I kept wiping it with my leg and cleaning my leg.  I thought that was a smart thing to do, being the smart Schnauzer that I am. The vet said I could hurt my eye doing that, so now I have to wear this e-collar thing. I am absolutely devastated. I am so torn up over this collar thingy that I can hardly walk. I sure can't go up and down stairs. I got up 2 stairs and gave up. Just sat down and waited for mom to come home and carry me.  Mom made me go out to potty, and I felt so defeated.  I just dropped my head down to the concrete and stood there. Why is she doing this to me? It's the most horrible thing that has ever happened to me. I want to just get a shot. That isn't bad. Or just scold me. But take this horrible, terrible thing off from around my head!!!! It scares me. I run into things with it. I am afraid to walk. I don't think I can eat or drink. Who is going to feed me? Somebody help me! 

Now mom says I have to go to help with dance lessons tonight. I don't think I can bear it. Everyone will see me with this thingy on my head, and I think they will laugh at me. I will be humiliated. Maybe someone will take pity on me and take it off me. I am pitiful. Mom keeps saying so.  I would go and pretend it isn't on me, but it is on me and it is so scary. I hate my life. Mom says just 4 days of this, but I think that means forever. Help!!!!!!!!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Birthday weekend fun</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/153351</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 11 May 2006 12:05:33 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/153351</guid>
		<description>Wow, what a great birthday weekend.  It started on Friday when I went to help teach dance. We had ca ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Wow, what a great birthday weekend.  It started on Friday when I went to help teach dance. We had cake and everyone sang to me and I got a huge pig ear. I danced and ate all my pig ear.

Then I got to have cake again for breakfast on Saturday, and Mom took me shopping. We went to a fancy downtown dog store and I got 2 bling and a free treat. Then we went to Petsmart and I got 2 more bling but no treat.  All day Mom sang to me about my birthday and I was so excited!

Then on my actual birthday on Sunday I had cake again for breakfast and hot dogs for lunch and pizza for dinner!!!  I went to get the pizza with mom and when she said it was for me too, I got so excited I shook all over and wagged my tail as fast as it would go.  We had ice cream for desert cause the cake was all gone. I know, because I got to lick the icing off the bottom of the plate.

Birthdays are really great, but I want a cheeseburger now. I thought this was just the start of something new, like not having to stay in my crate anymore during the day. I thought I was going to get to eat like this every day. You know, something that happens now that I am 3. I must admit that I am a bit disappointed. Guess I will have to stick with my grandma to get the toast every morning. Things could be worse. (I wonder when I will have another birthday....)]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My birthday weekend</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/151114</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 5 May 2006 13:40:28 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/151114</guid>
		<description>I am so excited (except for the bath part!) This is my official &quot;birthday weekend!!&quot;  and it starts  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I am so excited (except for the bath part!) This is my official "birthday weekend!!"  and it starts tonight.

I have been going once a week to help Mom and Jeff teach dance to some teens and adults about an hour drive away. They just love me :) and tonight we are taking birthday cake and candles and we are going to have a party! I just love parties. I hope I get ice cream too. I really love ice cream. And they all know I love bling bling, so maybe I will get presents even though Mom had to go and tell them not to bring any.

This teaching dance thing is a blast! I run up and down the line of dancers and leap up in the air to show them how to dance.  Sometimes I even have to bark to get them to do it right. They smile and pet me a lot. Then I run over to mom and stand up on my back legs so she can take my hand paws and dance with me.  She picks me up and dances with me and I like that too.  I am absolutely exhausted by the time we are done, what with all that running and supervising and being adorable. That's hard work. But I get to sleep on the ride home. 

I can hardly wait to find out what else we are doing this weekend for my birthday on Sunday!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>New friends and a birthday!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/128401</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 7 Mar 2006 13:35:26 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/128401</guid>
		<description>I had the bestest time of my life on Sunday. There are 2 dogs who run around the neighborhood who ar ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I had the bestest time of my life on Sunday. There are 2 dogs who run around the neighborhood who are bigger than me, but mom says they are still puppies. They come in my yard a lot and I see them through the gate. Well, guess who forgot to latch the gate when the garbage got taken to the curb on Sunday?  It wasn't me, but I know how to take advantage of a situation. I went on out and ran, ran, ran with the "puppies." I ran for a very long time.  I ran all over the place. I ran places I had never been before. It was so much fun!
Mom was out driving in the car when I came home and she got out of the car and ran through yards and grabbed me up and ran back to the car and drove home. Sometimes I really don't understand the things she does. Then she just sat there and held me and cried. I don't know why. I was having so much fun, and I tried to tell her I had new friends and I wanted to go back out to play with them some more, but she just carried me in the house and wouldn't let me back out. She said they would have to come in the fence to play with me from now on. 

Well, you will never guess what happened the next day... my new "puppy" friends came over and tried to break me out. They grabbed the gate with their teeth and kept yanking on it to try to get me out, but it didn't work. Maybe they will come back and try again.

My big brother Andrew had a birthday and that is always fun.  Andrew and my other big brother Adam and my grandma and two of my other good friends all came over and we ate ice cream cake. Yumm! Then I took turns sitting on everyone's laps and getting pet. It was almost as good as me having a birthday, except they all went out to eat without me and I didn't get any presents. So I guess maybe it wasn't quite as good. But it was still tons of fun and I want to do it again. 

Woof!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Didn't go to the park--yet</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/125917</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 28 Feb 2006 14:03:46 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/125917</guid>
		<description>I'm back at Grandma's house today, but all I want to do is go to the park. I don't know why no one i ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I'm back at Grandma's house today, but all I want to do is go to the park. I don't know why no one is taking me to the park. I think I am very clear about what I want.  Now.  I will ask my mom when she picks me up to take me to the park.  Now.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Grandma's here!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/125017</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 26 Feb 2006 07:52:16 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/125017</guid>
		<description>Hey everyone, you are simply not going to believe this. Now I get to live at both my old apartment a ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hey everyone, you are simply not going to believe this. Now I get to live at both my old apartment and at my new house, and I am almost never alone! My grandma moved here from Pennsylvania and she is living in my apartment. In the morning I go there to stay with her and then Mom picks me up at lunch time and takes me home. My grandma is really old and I have to be careful not to hurt her. She's very nice to me, though, and says sweet things and feeds me pretzels. Now I have my grandma and I don't have to miss my apartment, too! 

I love my new house! I can almost catch the squirrels in the back yard if I get real quiet and they don't see me before I start running after them. And Stitch--the next door Doberman--and I are buddies now. I can run and jump at him and just bounce off him and keep running. I run past him so fast he doesn't even know what happened. Some day his dad is going to let him off his leash when I come over to play so we can run all over the back yard. Mom says I better look out when that happens! 

I am ok with the basement now. I just had to get used to the smell. It is smelling more like us now. I run down there every time mom does. One day she screamed because she saw something running around in the basement and thought it was a r-a-t. It was just me!  Ha, ha, ha!

I found the candy dish the other day when mom left, and I was real neat about unwrapping the red candies before eating them. I only got carried away with a few of them and ripped the wrappers. I wonder if that is why mom put the dish out of my reach after that. I would be more careful if that is what she wants.

Grandma got sick one day I was there, and while she sat on the edge of the bed I put my paw on her arm to comfort her. She told mom and mom kept telling me what a good girl I am. I felt bad grandma was sick, so I only tried to make her feel better. I am glad it was the right thing to do.

Mom said she has to go paint some more now, so she can't help me with my diary right now. 
Woof, woof!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>One stone Schnauzer</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/109670</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 10 Jan 2006 17:20:24 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/109670</guid>
		<description>Ever since mom found out that some weird measurement called a stone is 14 pounds, she has been calli ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Ever since mom found out that some weird measurement called a stone is 14 pounds, she has been calling me her one stone schnauzer. Actually, she says I am one stone and a couple of pebbles, but I think she is just making that up.  I don't care what she calls me as long as she keeps taking me to the park at lunch time. I just love this warm weather, so I can go run, run, run. I wore my new bling to the park hoping I could show it off, but there weren't any other dogs around. A car pulled in with a German Shepherd and a Great Dane, but when they saw me they left. I didn't mean to scare them away. Do you think it was my new bling?
Woof!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>New bling</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/109330</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 9 Jan 2006 13:59:33 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/109330</guid>
		<description>I have a new bling bling. Mom's friend put this shiny red ring thingy on my collar and told me it wa ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I have a new bling bling. Mom's friend put this shiny red ring thingy on my collar and told me it was my new bling. I think it is beautiful. I don't know why mom said that was mean and to get that J-ring off my collar. Anyhow, mom's friend took it off and I pawed and pawed at his hand and at my new bling until he put it back on my collar.  I am walking around very proud of my new bling, and I hope mom doesn't take it off again.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Christmas in the Smokies</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/105969</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 28 Dec 2005 18:06:50 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/105969</guid>
		<description>Hi ya'all! I spent Christmas in the Smokies with my mom and big brothers. The smells around the cabi ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hi ya'all! I spent Christmas in the Smokies with my mom and big brothers. The smells around the cabin were fantastic. I sniffed so much I forgot to run, run, run. I think maybe I was smelling some of those bears mom told me to watch out for, so I am glad I didn't catch any of them. They smell bigger than fleas! The neighbor dog came over to "my" yard and I ran out and told him just who he was messing with. He acted all submissive and wanted to play, but once I set the rules, I just wanted to sniff around the cabin some more. I didn't want to be anti-social--I was just too busy to play. 

I got a cool stuffed fish toy. I also got a ball that mom put my food in and I have to roll it around to get my food out. I don't think I like that idea. I wish she would put something better in it. Then I would roll it around more. And I got greenies and treats. Yummmmmmmm. 

The stairs were too steep going up to the bedroom and I didn't like to use them, so I just sat at the botton and whined a lot until my brother came and put me in bed with him.  I thought maybe that was the new house, but Mom said, no, we were just visiting there. We are going to move into this new house later this month. I still haven't gotten to see it. I want to go see it. That reminds me, it was warm out today so mom took me to the park at lunch. Yeah!  

Mom spilled all the cold gravy out of the refrigerator, so I helped her by licking it all up. She seemed pleased. I am her little helper.

Well, gotta go now and see if mom put something better in my treat ball yet.
Woof]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>New house</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/104561</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 23 Dec 2005 03:54:28 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/104561</guid>
		<description>Well, mom went and bought a house without my approval. Heck, I didn't even get to see it. She keeps  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well, mom went and bought a house without my approval. Heck, I didn't even get to see it. She keeps telling me how great it is...hardwood floors for me to run and slide on and a big fenced back yard for me to run and play in. It even comes equipped with a friendly doberman right next door. I think I remember him from the park. He wanted to play with me, but he was so big and strong that I had to growl and bark at him to be sure he knew I was boss. Maybe he will understand that, and when I move into our new house he will want to play nice with me.  

I wonder where mom will put my kennel in the new house. I love my kennel. It is my safe place, and if I get scared cause mom's mad at me or if I know she is going to do something I don't like (like give me a bath) I run and hide in it. It is really big and has a big pillow in it and my food dish and my water bottle. I love my water bottle too. I like the sound the little metal ball makes when I lick it to get water. And it doesn't get my beard wet and make me cold. 

Mom said the new house is really close to here, so she will still come home for lunch every day and we can still go to the park like we used to. I hope I get to go again soon. I had almost forgotten to whine to go there when Mom suprised me last weekend and took me. I ran, ran, ran!

I am so excited about going to the cabin in Gatlinburg with mom and the boys.  (I don't know why mom calls them "boys". They are really big.) I will get to sleep with them and go outside with them and run, run, run! And mommy has presents for me, too! I know they will be good, because I can smell them...I just can't get to them!

Mommy said to wish everybody a Merry Christmas, so woof woof woof!!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>House shopping</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/102486</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 15 Dec 2005 08:09:20 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/102486</guid>
		<description>Mommy took me house shopping last weekend. I loved it! I got to run through empty houses and run up  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mommy took me house shopping last weekend. I loved it! I got to run through empty houses and run up and down stairs and sniff everything and run, run, run. She kept asking me if I liked the houses and if I wanted to live there. I always wagged my tail yes. At the second house, mommy smiled a lot and that made me run and wag my tail more. The wood floors are good to slide on and it has a wide staircase that's not too steep so I won't fall. Mommy said she'll get a fence so I can run loose in the yard, too. 

Then mommy took me to check out a new marina and that was extra fun because of all the smells and the water. It made me remember my boat. As I was coming back to the car mommy asked me if we should put my boat there (I didn't know she was going to ask me that), so I had to run back around the docks again before I could answer her. I said yes. Now. But she didn't do it now. And we aren't living in the new house. I wish mommy would tell me if we are going back there and when she is moving my boat. 

I wish she would take me to the park, too. We went in the car last night and I thought we were going to the park (it was dark out, but hey, there can always be a first time, right?) and then I moaned when I realized we were just going to the store.  If you think that was bad, wait, it gets worse. When mommy parked, she pulled my sweater out of the back of her coat (tricky mommy, she was hiding it!) and tried to put it on me. I put up a good fight. She won. I got cold in the car anyhow. That will teach her! Maybe she won't put that stupid awful sweater on me anymore and maybe she will take me to the park where I can run, run, run next time.  But I think she got me something for Christmas when she went in the store without me.  I gotta go now and sniff around to see if I can find it.
Woof!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Going to Gatlinburg!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/100927</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 9 Dec 2005 12:42:22 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/100927</guid>
		<description>Mom said we are going to Gatlinburg for Christmas. I get to be with my big people brothers and there ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom said we are going to Gatlinburg for Christmas. I get to be with my big people brothers and there will be lots of good food and gifts. We're going to stay in a cabin and there's lots of woods around where I can run and play. Yeah!  But Mom said I have to watch out for bears....what are bears? 

It's going to be sooooooo much fun. Except for the bears. I hope there aren't any, whatever they are. I wonder if they are like fleas. Fleas are bad. Ticks are bad. Bears are bad. I hope Mom doesn't put spray on me to keep them off me. 

She said she's putting a bow on my collar. I bet I can get it off. Won't Mommy be surprised!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Christmas decorating</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/99965</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 6 Dec 2005 15:11:00 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/99965</guid>
		<description>I have had a lot of diary entries to catch up on. Mom's been too busy to help me so I have had to re ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I have had a lot of diary entries to catch up on. Mom's been too busy to help me so I have had to remember a lot of stuff.  Mommy decorated for Christmas over the weekend. I helped her put up the tree and the lights are real pretty. My favorite decoration is the Snow Man. Mom squeezes his mitten and he plays his guitar and sings "I'm a Snoooow Man" to the tune of "I'm a Soul Man" and he moves in time to the music.  I can sit and watch him for a long time. He fell down once and I dragged him around for a little bit while Mommy was gone to work, but I didn't hurt him because I want him to keep singing. 

Mom talked about taking my big kennel to the basement to have more room for the tree, but  I am glad she left it. It is my safe place. I run into it when Mommy gets mad at me or when she tries to give me a bath or put on my sweater (I especially hate the sweater). My food is always in there, too, and I love to drink out of my water bottle that is on the door of the kennel. I would rather use it than my water bowl. It doesn't make my whiskers wet. 

Mom is all over her cold now, but she still won't take me too the park. I wish I could go to the park, I want to go to the park, someone take me to the park, I should go to the park, it is my right to go to the park, it is my entitlement to go to the park, I want to go to the park. What Mom? A treat? Where did I want to go? I want a treat, I want a treat! Yeah, a treat!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Home blahs</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/99961</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 6 Dec 2005 15:00:39 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/99961</guid>
		<description>Well, it seems that Thanksgiving was the end of my getting to run. Mom has had a bad cold and won't  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well, it seems that Thanksgiving was the end of my getting to run. Mom has had a bad cold and won't take me to the park. She says I might not go to the park again until the weather warms up in the spring.  That upsets me. Every day I tell Mom I want to go to the park. I tell her and tell her and tell her. She just keeps saying no park. Grrrrrrr.

I have had to find other things to do. She left the keenex box where I could reach it on the bed, so I took out all the kleenex and piled them very neatly one on top of another. I counted them as I went...one, one, one, one. I ended up with one. Mom said there were actually a lot more, but she was very impressed with how I had them stacked.  A couple of days later she forgot them again (she says it's this cold thing she has) and I didn't touch them this time. She was again impressed (it sure doesn't take much to impress her) and I got a treat. I love treats. After I chewed up my treat I went back to the bedroom where Mom had left me a nice glass of water on the head of the bed, right where I could reach it, and took a good long lap. I thought it was very considerate of her to leave it there all day so I could nap in the bed and not have to go far to get a drink. I wanted her to see how much I appreciated it, but she laughed and laughed.  I like when Mommy laughs. It is a happy sound, and it makes me wag my tail. I wonder why she hasn't left me a glass of water since that?]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My Thanksgiving Vacation</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/99958</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 6 Dec 2005 14:51:00 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/99958</guid>
		<description>Mom thought she was doing something special going away for awhile over Thanksgiving, but I was the o ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom thought she was doing something special going away for awhile over Thanksgiving, but I was the one that really got a good vacation. I stayed with my Auntie Arlene for a few days, then my bestest buds, Andrea and the awesome Ben came and got me and we went to my new Grandmom's in Indiana. (I don't think she is really my Grandmom--she's Andrea's Mom--but every pup ought to get treated so good, so I am claiming her as mine!) We went to Indiana to their farm and I got to run, run, run!!  Ben took me and their dog for long walks in the woods, and I didn't even mind the cold.  The only bad part was when Andrea kept combing the burrs out of my beautiful hair.  

My new Grandmom said I could come back anytime, and Mom could even leave me there if she was coming that way. She told Andrea to be sure to tell Mom that she was lucky to get me back! I wonder what that meant?

Then I met the cat...it was a great big mean cat. I ran and hid behind Ben and we both stayed way away from the cat.  But then we went to visit Andrea's friend, and she had a nice cat. I didn't know cats could be nice. I have only met mean ones. It sniffed my nose then rolled over on its back for me to sniff it all over. I wish all cats could be like that. 

I was sad when Ben and Andrea brought me home. First they put me in a kennel in the back seat because the weather was bad for driving and they said they wanted us all to be safe. Then they took me home to my Mom. I love my Mom, and was happy to see her, but I didn't want them to leave. I kept sitting between them in the kitchen to tell them they could just stay here with us, but they left anyhow. I sat at the kitchen door for a long time waiting for them to come back. I don't understand why that made Mom sad. They are so nice and fun, and I thought she would want them to come back too.  She seemed much happier, though, when I gave up and just went and got one of my toys for Mom to play with.  I hope I get to go back again soon!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I get to stay with Auntie Arlene</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/91782</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 10 Nov 2005 13:05:22 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/91782</guid>
		<description>I get to stay with my Auntie Arlene Friday night. I thought I would share with everyone how I manage ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I get to stay with my Auntie Arlene Friday night. I thought I would share with everyone how I managed to do it with an email:

Hi Auntie Arlene. My mom is going away overnight Friday and I want to come stay with you. Can I, huh, huh, can I?
Lexi
 
P.S. Mom said it is ok with her if it is ok with you. She said she is going away for about a week starting the 17th, and if this works out (I will be good, I promise) maybe you would like me to come play with you and sleep with you for a few days later this month, too.
 
PPS I told Mom you would have to give me my treats and take me to the park and let me sleep with you or someone, cause I like to sleep under the covers. She promised to talk to you about it. (I want ice cream too, but Splenda gives me the squirts.)
 
I love you,
Lexi the bestest Schnauzer

It was so good I got this reply:

Dear Sweet Niece, Lexi,
     Tell your mom you can stay with me any time you want and you can sleep with me, too. I don't have a fancy house, but you probably won't mind. Loving ice cream runs in our family, so I'll make sure you get ice cream, but we'll definitely make sure that you don't get Splenda. If you don't know how to use the phone, tell your mom to call me or send me another email. Here's my number (Mom made me leave this part out). See you soon.
xoxoxoxoAuntie Arlenexoxoxoxoxox

Yeah, she loves me.  It's going to be fun.  I just tried on the ice cream, never thinking I would actually get any (unless it was a birthday, of course). But it worked!!!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Great Weekend</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/90475</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 6 Nov 2005 17:18:52 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/90475</guid>
		<description>What a great weekend. I always know it is the weekend because Mommy doesn't go to work.  She stays h ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ What a great weekend. I always know it is the weekend because Mommy doesn't go to work.  She stays home with me or takes me out lots of places. We went to White Oak Park just down the street from our house on Saturday and walked the whole park twice.  Mom says it is a small park, and the weather was just right and maybe I wouldn't whine anymore today if she wore me out. I am supposed to be on a leash, but Mom lets me run there if no one else is around. We went back there this morning and I ran and ran really fast.  It is so much fun smelling all the places where other dogs have been and then squatting over them. In the afternoon we went to another park way out Hamill Road. (I didn't even whine to get Mom to take me!) Mom said it is too pretty outside to stay inside. I had to stay on my leash, but I got to say hi to another speckly looking dog that had a really dumb looking rubber chicken.  I made fun of a couple of little poodles, but then I saw a poodle that was way bigger than me, so maybe I won't make fun of poodles any more.  We walked a long way and I got hot, but Mom shared her water with me.  Then we went for pizza and I got some of that, too.   It' sure been a great weekend! I wish every day was a weekend!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>New friends</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/86708</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 25 Oct 2005 08:03:15 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/86708</guid>
		<description>I got to go visit my friend Legolas on Saturday. I also met his brother Sam and sister Swoosh. They  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I got to go visit my friend Legolas on Saturday. I also met his brother Sam and sister Swoosh. They are on Dogster too. I was scared at first cause Sam is so big, but Mom kept telling me he is really just a puppy still, so I gave him a chance and found out he is really nice and fun to play with.  We played ball a lot and jumped up on his dad's lap when I had the ball so they couldn't get it from me. So now I have another dog friend and person friend.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Summer's gone</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/86492</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 24 Oct 2005 13:53:30 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/86492</guid>
		<description>Wow! What a great summer. I got to go to the park almost every day and run, run, run. Sometimes I ha ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Wow! What a great summer. I got to go to the park almost every day and run, run, run. Sometimes I had to learn stuff, but I learned to "heel" in only 2 days so I wouldn't have to work at it any longer. I really HATE having to "down." How can I be in charge if I am laying flat on my tummy! No more boat until next spring, but these really creepy jumpy flying bugs were taking it over and it wasn't as much fun.  
Mom wouldn't take me to the park today because she said it was too cold outside. But I bet I can get her to take me when she gets home tonight--I will whine, whine, whine until she does.  Won't she be surprised!
When I come in from potty in the morning now I jump into mom's bed and crawl under the covers to stay warm. It's funny 'cause she says, "Where's Lexi?" and I just hide under there and she can't find me! Sometimes I don't even come out until after she is gone!! It is warm and cozy and I just fall back to sleep.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My brother's birthday</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/67092</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 11 Aug 2005 13:01:50 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/67092</guid>
		<description>Last Saturday was my 2 legged brother's birthday. It was great! We went to my boat and stayed out th ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Last Saturday was my 2 legged brother's birthday. It was great! We went to my boat and stayed out there almost alllllll day. I swam around my boat a lot, cause it was hot outside. No one made me get on the float this time. I hate that float. There was a lot of water in it last time, and I was leaning way over the side to get out of the water in the float (too much like being in the tub) and I fell head-first into the lake. Wasn't I suprised! My life jacket saved me and I popped right back up. Whew, that was close!

Then we went home and ate lasagne and ice cream cake. Yummy, I just love birthdays.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>NEW PICTURES</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/62202</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 25 Jul 2005 13:18:22 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/62202</guid>
		<description>YES! I've got new all grown up pictures now on my web page. I am so proud of them. And I didn't even ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ YES! I've got new all grown up pictures now on my web page. I am so proud of them. And I didn't even have to get groomed first (although Mommy snuck up on me and gave me a bath first--yuck). I think I should be clean enough after swimming in the Tennessee River. Speaking of which, Mom let me swim a little without my life vest on Saturday. It was a little scary, but Mom says I am an excellent swimmer! Now she is seeing big turtles where I was swimming and says I have to wear my life vest all the time again "just in case." 
I didn't get off the boat on Sunday at all, because I am still trying to figure out what this just in case is all about.  Then my boat started not working so good, and we went home. Drat! I was getting to eat cheese twirls, and I was doing what Mom called self-serve in the boat bag because she had my special biscuits just lying loose down in there. 
Maybe I will throw up in Mommy's bed tonight. Won't she be surprised!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>STILL no new pictures</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/59464</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 15 Jul 2005 06:17:52 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/59464</guid>
		<description>STILL no new pictures. What's wrong with Mommy? I don't want her to wait until she starts looking at ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ STILL no new pictures. What's wrong with Mommy? I don't want her to wait until she starts looking at me and squinting and saying "I think you need groomed again before we take pictures."  She PROMISES this weekend we will get pictures and put them on the website. (Just so she doesn't try to put clothes on me--I HATE clothes!!)

My friend Legolas (who also has a dogster page) is coming to stay with me this weekend. I am so excited. Mommy rearranged my room so I can look out the other window during the day. She said it will be better for me and Legolas, too. 

I hope the weather is good so we can go to my boat together this weekend, but mommy said there is a hurricane making bad weather. We'll see.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Groomed</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/57448</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 7 Jul 2005 05:18:52 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/57448</guid>
		<description>I'm groomed. No use playing sick anymore.  

But I had a really good 4th of July. I went to a picn ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I'm groomed. No use playing sick anymore.  

But I had a really good 4th of July. I went to a picnic where a full band played in the yard for over an hour, and everyone pet me and said nice things to me. There was a golden retriever mix there, but she was scared of me and wouldn't play, not even when I stuck my behind up in the air and got down really low in the front. That usually works. Poor doggie. And mom wouldn't let me play with the Yorkie. She said I would squish it.  They have good food at picnics!

Then I got to go to my boat and I swam a lot because it was a hot day. I slept on the big bench seat a lot, too. I got more yummy food there.  

I've been having so much fun chasing the joggers at the park. Mommy gets mad at me though and says I will have to stay on my leash if I keep doing that and don't listen. I don't want to stay on my leash and I want to chase the joggers.  :(  Not today, though--it's raining. I am going to see how big my bladder is!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Haven't felt good</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/56140</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 1 Jul 2005 10:51:44 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/56140</guid>
		<description>Mom still hasn't taken any new pictures, but she says she has to groom me first Hmmm, maybe I can do ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom still hasn't taken any new pictures, but she says she has to groom me first Hmmm, maybe I can do without the new pictures. 
I haven't been feeling well all week--I didn't get to puke in Mom's bed, but Mommy had to wash the love seat cover, and there was more stuff mom says isn't polite to talk about. She wanted to groom me again last night, but this not feeling good thing seems to be working for me. 
Maybe I will puke in her bed tonight. Won't she be surprised!
(I'm really feeling better, but don't tell mom!)
(Do you think she will still take me to my boat this weekend?)]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>No New Pictures!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/55048</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 27 Jun 2005 10:13:42 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/55048</guid>
		<description>I looked at my page last night and am mad because there are no pictures of me since I was a pup.  So ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I looked at my page last night and am mad because there are no pictures of me since I was a pup.  So I followed her around the dance floor when she was trying to ballroom dance with her friend at the dance studio and barked at her the whole time. She really should have been paying attention to more important things, like me and my pictue problem.  Mommy promised to take care of this picture problem very soon, since I am such a beautiful girl, and all grown up now. Sooo..... new, beautiful pics of very beautiful me will be coming soon.  (Don't worry, I will bug mom about it until she does it.)]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Boating on the Tennessee River</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/54627</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 25 Jun 2005 18:32:59 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Lexi ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/162402/diary/Lexis_special_days/54627</guid>
		<description>Today I swam eleven laps around my pontoon boat - a personal best (perhaps because no one was watchi ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today I swam eleven laps around my pontoon boat - a personal best (perhaps because no one was watching when I wanted back in after the fourth lap).  Burrr!  The ice cream made me very cold when I had my pup cup of vanilla ice cream (my favorite flavor).  It was worth it!  I'll make up for it tonight by puking on mom's bed.  Won't she be surprised?!]]></content:encoded>
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