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<title>Sabre's Story</title>
<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story</link>
<description>Dogster diary for the dog Sabre</description>
<language>en</language>
<copyright>Copyright 2013 by Sabre &amp; Dogster</copyright>
<pubDate>Wed, 19 Jun 2013 02:27:00 PDT</pubDate>
<generator>Dogster Pet-o-matic Gennie - http://www.dogster.com</generator>
<ttl>360</ttl>

	<item>
		<title>When a dog's gotta go...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/679456</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 29 Jun 2010 09:03:02 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/679456</guid>
		<description>a dog's gotta go.  Mom just doesn't understand.  I wasn't bugging her for attention.  I didn't nuzzl ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ a dog's gotta go.  Mom just doesn't understand.  I wasn't bugging her for attention.  I didn't nuzzle my head in her belly, climb up on her, lick attack her, and nibble on her arms just because she was watching the USA soccer games.  It was just a coincidence that I didn't do it during ALL of the other games!  I REALLY had to go...more than once...during each US game!  I swear.  Why else would I want her to take me out in this heat and with the bugs. Yuck!  Well at least mom doesn't have to worry now since the US team is out of the world cup!  I know she's not happy about that, but surely she won't be upset if I have to interrupt her soccer watching to do my business during Portugal/Spain?????]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Mom's done with work</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/679006</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 26 Jun 2010 10:01:02 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/679006</guid>
		<description>I am so absolutely happy that mom is home with me for the summer, although she's been watching alot  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I am so absolutely happy that mom is home with me for the summer, although she's been watching alot of TV lately.  Looks like a bunch of daddies playing with my soccer ball!  I like to bug her while she watches and boy does she get upset when she has to pause the TV to take me out!

Mom told me that she's a little sad that she can't post about her feelings and experiences with me on the forums without being told she's wrong.  I mean it's not like she's dishing out training advice or anything.  Can't a girl just tell about her doggy experiences without being made to feel like a big dummy?  Feelings aren't wrong.  Ha Ha and maybe all that "stuff" she went through with me didn't really happen either. Ha!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>vacation</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/664235</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 2 Apr 2010 08:29:15 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/664235</guid>
		<description>Well for mom it's vacation...she's been home all week and it's been fabulous.  So many long walks an ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well for mom it's vacation...she's been home all week and it's been fabulous.  So many long walks and lots of rides in the car.  Today about half-way through our walk, the strap "accidentally" came off of my snout.  Mom would usually just put that strap right back on but today something strange happened...she left the strap off and hooked the leash up to just the collar part.  Oh goodie!!  Mom said it was a good chance to practice some of what she calls loose leash walking and as long as we don't see any of my friends it'd be ok. bol!!  I did so great with not pulling, everytime I started to get out in front she'd say EASY and I slowed my pace.  She kept saying that I must be growing up...but don't break this news flash to her...I was just tired and hot.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Dog park...finally</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/656607</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 21 Feb 2010 11:39:54 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/656607</guid>
		<description>It has been so incredibly long since mom took me to the dog park.  After a quick visit to Petco to p ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It has been so incredibly long since mom took me to the dog park.  After a quick visit to Petco to pick up a couple of new outdoor toys, I hardly even knew when we were heading up the driveway.   Once we pulled into our parking spot I realized!!  I could see some activity inside the fence.  Mom wasn't so happy that I tried to pull her all the way to the fence.  Her feet were sliding like she had skates on.  She was probably having fun, but was acting too serious to admit it.  She kept making me stop and calm down.  At last we entered, some sniffing, and we were off.  Mom almost made me leave early when I took some interest in a smaller dog that had arrived.  I wasn't going to hurt it...I was just curious, but that mom...sometimes she can be overly cautious.  We didn't stay for too too long and when mom leashed me up and took me over to the water dish, she kept saying that I was a good boy.  I think that means we might go back again soon.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Snowball fight...are you talkin to me?!!!!!!!!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/643201</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 19 Dec 2009 05:49:16 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/643201</guid>
		<description>Beau and Scout challenged ME to a snowball fight...REALLY???  Who do they think they're messin' with ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Beau and Scout challenged ME to a snowball fight...REALLY???  Who do they think they're messin' with?  Don't they know I'm part reindeer!?!  I LIVE for the snow!  Plus I hear Scout, you don't like the snow and cold so much, do you?  I was just out for a long time...heck the only reason I'm inside now is because mom made me.  She can take the cold but even she has her limits.  I guess...it's better that I rest up for our battle royale.  It's AWW-ON!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title></title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/638990</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 30 Nov 2009 03:29:33 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/638990</guid>
		<description>Woo hoo!! It's my birthday!!  I've turned the big 2!! ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Woo hoo!! It's my birthday!!  I've turned the big 2!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Watch out...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/635337</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 14 Nov 2009 06:51:15 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/635337</guid>
		<description>Mom finally decided to get moving this morning.  We went out for our walk.  Nearing the end of the d ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom finally decided to get moving this morning.  We went out for our walk.  Nearing the end of the driveway I heard the barks from my neighbor dogs, you know, the ones who are always tied out who bark at everything and when I hear them I always think that Beau and Scout are on their way over.  I knew that they couldn't be barking at me because I was kind of out of their line of sight.  Sure enough, it was Beau and Scout, but they were with Mark this time.  Usually mom walks me with Connie so I thought this was strange.  I heard mom call out, "It's kind of late for you isn't it!  I promise we won't go too fast!" Apparently Mark does not like the break-neck pace of our usual walks together.  He said yes and I thought to myself, BONUS!!  That's the third walk this week, we're getting pretty good at it too.  Mom was really trying hard to slow down my pace so Mark wouldn't get mad and never let us walk together again.   I did manage to get in a few flying kisses and a few head rubs--maybe Mark doesn't know that I have to keep the strap on my snout.  No luck, mom apparently already told him my trick.  I'm not really that friendly, I just want you to help take this stinkin' strap off my snout!!!  Ok, just kidding.  You know I am an attention hog.  Well we had to turn around early because of a couple of dogs roaming free.  Not a good idea for our pack to approach them.  Mom and Mark know how we stick together so they didn't even give us a chance.  On the way home, Beau tried some crazy move--he actually tried to walk right underneath me.  It would have worked had he just ducked a little bit.  I am a tall and lanky fellow.  The real kicker was when he stuck his snout underneath me while I was peeing.  He always does this so I'm used to it, but for some reason, he still is not used to the powerful mule kicks that I do after peeing.  He zoomed right in for his chance to pee on top of my pee and I just let him have it...first it was all leaves and then I got him right on the snout.  Mark started calling me donkey.  He says my wookie sounds may not be wookie afterall.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>my new friend Bella</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/627456</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 12 Oct 2009 06:49:13 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/627456</guid>
		<description>As you can see from my latest pic, I have a new friend.  Her name is Bella.  Can you tell that I jus ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ As you can see from my latest pic, I have a new friend.  Her name is Bella.  Can you tell that I just love all the attention?  She's the one that I met out on a walk one day with Beau and Scout.  I, being the well mannered pup that I am, got to greet her first.  I wanted to play right there but mom says playing in the road is bad.  I had no idea that mom was going to set up playdates with her so quickly.  We've had 2 now.  When she first came over I almost didn't remember her.  I let her in the fence though and it was on.  We played forever.  She's so funny though, just growing into her paws.  She kept falling and rolling all clumsy-like.  It was funny until I remembered that I used to be like that.  Now I'm all full of grace as I prance and bound about the yard like a gazelle.  She came over a second time and I didn't even bark at their truck.  I knew right away who it was.  I guess it helped that we saw them on our walk a few days before.  Bella's mom stopped her car to talk a minute and finally I could see Bella's shepherd ears pop up above the open window, then my sniffer was hard at work.  I knew for sure it was her.

I know that Beau and Scout are probably not happy that I got to her first but them's the breaks, right?  Of course I still have my playdates with them too.  They are my family now.  I was hoping we'd see them today since mom's off from work for some guy they call Columbus, but she said Scout's a little gimpy and needs to take it easy.  Well there's no taking it easy around me so she'd better stay away.  I hope she heals quickly!!  

I forgot to mention that my sister had a friend over and I was really on my best behavior.  I liked him so much that I licked his ears and nibbled them a little.  It helped that he gave me a ton of treats.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>finally...I get some computer time</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/624321</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 28 Sep 2009 15:56:42 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/624321</guid>
		<description>Mom always says a teacher's work is never done...boy is she right.  This is the first time I've been ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom always says a teacher's work is never done...boy is she right.  This is the first time I've been able to get on the computer since the beginning of September!!  She has just been hogging it with all of her "work!"  She leaves me to go to work, then she works when she gets home.  That just doesn't make sense to me.

Today was my first day home completely alone the whole day.  See, dad used to be home with me but he slept most of the day.  Well this morning he woke up the same time as mom and he left before her!!  What is going on here???  I did really good mom says.  I tried not to chew anything  I wasn't supposed to. Mostly I just layed on the couch and looked out the window.

Mom and sister came home and took me out in the fence immediately.  I bet they knew I had to go potty!  Then later, a new friend came over.  Her name is Bella.  I met her while walking with Beau and Scout and I think mom invited her over because I was such a good boy while she was gone.  What a great reward!!  Maybe she can come over again sometime.  She's smaller than me but she gave me a run for my money and she loved all my wrestling moves!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>going back to work...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/616668</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 25 Aug 2009 10:17:42 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/616668</guid>
		<description>Well, mom broke the news...tomorrow she goes back to work! NOOOOOOOOOO!!!! No more morning walks or  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well, mom broke the news...tomorrow she goes back to work! NOOOOOOOOOO!!!! No more morning walks or trips to the dog park.  My mommy and me time will be seriously lacking and I am not a happy camper.  We've gone on so many different adventures this summer...it's just hard to believe it will all come to an end.  I know she will do her best to make up for it in the evenings and on weekends but it's not the same.  

We went on a walk with Beau and Scout last night.  That's become a regular thing.  Hopefully we'll stick with it now that mom's going to be sooo busy.  Everything was going great until this dog came sprinting at us in full attack mode.  Just as he got into the street a car came too.  Oh, no!!! Go back!!  Phew, after everyone was safe we turned around and headed for home.  On the way back we passed a neighbor.  I've met him before so mom let me go say hi.  Beau and Scout stayed back and when Beau gave a woof I said goodbye and ran back to make sure he was ok.  No problem.  Passing their house was torturous.  I thought for sure we'd get to play too but mom says we need to get used to just walking sometimes with no playdate afterward.  I guess I should be happy with what I have.

When I woke up this morning mom said she was taking me to the dog park one last time before she goes back to work.  Awesome! That place is really growing on me!  I've made some good pals, even sniffed a kid or two, and gotten some good scratches from the grownups there with their pups.  I impressed mom with how gentle I could be with the teeny dogs and younger puppies. Today I even tried to follow the little pups' lead by climbing up on the picnic table.  What? That's not so cute when a dog my size does it?  Total discrimination, I say!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>O.J.??????</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/615494</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 20 Aug 2009 11:21:36 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/615494</guid>
		<description>It was pretty foggy at our house today and mom didn't feel very safe walking me out on the road. So, ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It was pretty foggy at our house today and mom didn't feel very safe walking me out on the road. So, mom decided to take me for a ride in her car--yet another adventure!!  We arrived at the path where all of the 2 wheelers go.  We had a nice walk, met a few people, but what mom found strange was people telling her something about a guy named O.J?????  I don't know who that is but for some reason people wanted to talk about him today. Mom said this is the first time anyone has ever brought him up when she tells people I'm an Akita!!  From what I gather, this O.J. guy's wife had an Akita.  BIG DEAL!!!!  I don't know what that has to do with me, but WHATEVER!!!

Oh, forgot to mention, we stopped at the place where I get my shots and mom took me on the scale.  I haven't gained any weight all summer!  Mom insists I'm not skinny, just muscular and athletic.  I guess I don't have to be as big as those other Akitas!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>walking</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/615286</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 19 Aug 2009 12:29:10 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/615286</guid>
		<description>I must have been so well-behaved on my walk with Beau and Scout yesterday that mom decided to forget ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I must have been so well-behaved on my walk with Beau and Scout yesterday that mom decided to forget all of my previous obnoxious behavior and pull out my Sense-ation harness once again.  That's right, she is a glutton for punishment for sure. Just kidding, I had a great walk with her this morning.  The running lady came up behind us and I just couldn't resist...I HAD to go say hello.  Then I wanted to play but mom said not in the road.   She walked with us for a little bit then took off running past us.  I wanted to go too but mom said no because she was in her flippies (that hasn't stopped her before when she wants to get my butt moving) and that I'd just tire myself out too quickly and not want to walk the rest of the way home.  It was kind of hot already in the AM so I went along with it.  Except for being a little pooped and dragging behind, plus some sniffing as a stall tactic, I was pretty darn good.  Plus in case you were wondering mom, don't think it went unnoticed that you carried the cannycollar in your hand the whole time (just in case a need arose).  I knew exactly what you were up to.  And another thing, you think you can easily trick me now that you can arrange my playdates on facebook too.   That's a laugh!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>the place where dogs play</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/614930</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 18 Aug 2009 10:55:48 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/614930</guid>
		<description>Mom took me there today.  We drove up in our car and this time we stayed.  Mom didn't leave me and t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom took me there today.  We drove up in our car and this time we stayed.  Mom didn't leave me and there was no "bad" guy like at the  daycare place.  The dogs that were there the last time we went were there again with a couple of newcomers.  We played some chase and did some wrestling.  I was very grumbly trying to get the other dogs to play with me, but mom knew I was not being mean.  The other people were very nice to mom too.  I even sniffed a smaller dog, of course he also wasn't barking at me from the get-go and wasn't trying to start anything.  He wasn't too too small, but he was real low to the ground with long, floppy ears.  All in all, a good experience.  Hopefully I impressed mom enough so that she'll bring me again.  We had to leave when mom saw a small person coming in with a pup and his mom.  Mom told me she probably was too young and wasn't supposed to be in there with us crazy pups.  But what's a guy to do, mom can't take any chances because when it comes down to it, who'll get blamed, the big Akita.  I overheard one guy tell mom that they come almost every day at the same time, so maybe I'll see those new pals again.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>the battlefield tour</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/614453</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 16 Aug 2009 15:10:33 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/614453</guid>
		<description>FINALLY...yesterday mom got to lead her tour of the battlefield.  I hope she did a good job, she sur ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ FINALLY...yesterday mom got to lead her tour of the battlefield.  I hope she did a good job, she sure has been practicing.  Now maybe we can go there for just a hike, without stopping so much, and especially without the mom talking to herself.  It's kind of embarrassing and I think it scares the critters away.  She was gone an awful long time yesterday though and then dad left with sister too.  Dad came back after a little while but no sister, and NO MOM!!  UGH!!  WHERE ARE THEY??

Besides our morning walk, mom spent ALL DAY outside without me, what gives??!! Every once in awhile I'd peek out a window and catch a glimpse of her.  Looked like she was workin' hard.  When dad finally let me in the fence, I quickly found mom and she was doing something to the fence.  I'm not sure what but the fence kind of smelled funny.  I hope she makes some time for me later...]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>2 lucky bunnies</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/614138</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 15 Aug 2009 06:14:04 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/614138</guid>
		<description>I don't know how much I can type right now...I am so dog tired, just got back from a morning playdat ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I don't know how much I can type right now...I am so dog tired, just got back from a morning playdate with my best pals Beau and Scout.  We were all so full of it!  Beau was playful right out of the gate, which doesn't always happen.   We ran out little hearts out, played some ball, hey mom even tricked Beau into giving up the ball TWICE.  I think he's losing his touch!  A couple times Scout and I trampled right over Beau and he just layed there.  I thought it was pretty neat when we all got to chill on the porch out of reach of all those tiny bugs that swarm us.  Mom says I needed to rest up for the walk home cause she's not dragging my butt down the road!

Yesterday, well all I can say is those bunnies better be thankful that they are on this earth to hop another day.  Both times I was certain that I had them in my clutches.  I was in super stealth mode on my walk in the morning, mom says I was pouncing like a cat, how dare she??!!  I just love sniffing around in the tall grass on the side of the road, well every few feet I think I see something move out of the corner of my eye, and yes I tend to pounce and come away with nothing.  This time I was not faking.  I did the pounce to end all pounces and sure enough, a bunny went sprinting out of the grass.  Oh, was he lucky I didn't snatch him up, and then of course mom wouldn't let me chase him any further.  He was soon out of sight!

Later in the day mom took me out in the fence to play and wouldn't you know it--another bunny.  I think he's trying to make a home under sister's swingset--not if I have anything to say about.  I know mom's been telling stories about how I'm oblivious to the bunny's movements--ok there were a couple times when I didn't notice him until it was too late.  Something must have been wrong with my sniffer on both occasions!!  Anyway, this time, I spotted him trying to make his escape.  The chase was on...I almost got him and then under the fence he went, out into the woods.  That's so not fair!!  I stood there daring him to come back in...be thankful you live to hop another day bunny!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>a good little soldier...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/613696</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 13 Aug 2009 14:12:53 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/613696</guid>
		<description>That's me...I'm mommy's good little soldier.  She took me to the battlefield for one last walk throu ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ That's me...I'm mommy's good little soldier.  She took me to the battlefield for one last walk through before she does her first tour. Lucky me...no really, it's a great place for a pup to walk, out in the woods, lots of little critters and critter smells.  The problem is she kept stopping, reading her book out loud (can you say cuckoo, cuckoo?), turning around, ugh.  I couldn't understand a word.  I was just happy to have an interesting hike and mom did give me time to sniff around.  While we were following the wide path, I spotted something in the tall weeds making its move.  Despite the imminent peril, I pounced so high that it totally took mom off guard.  The dangerous creature froze in its tracks and I tried to wrangle it into submission.  I had to protect mom from any potential harm! Do you think she appreciated my heroic efforts at all?  Nope, she just pulled me back and said, "let's go boy, it's just a turtle!"  

Anyhow, I was pretty tired from our hike and happy to get back to the car for a refreshing drink of water.  As we drove away I could only hope that I helped mom prepare for her tour in some way.  We stopped later in a different parking lot but we didn't get out.  I saw some other dogs hanging out inside a fence.  I don't know why we stopped and then just drove away.  Maybe mom thought there were too many dogs or maybe it was the little dog that we saw getting out of its truck.  I wanted to go too but I guess mom was just being a responsible owner.  We did go through the McDonald's drive through and I thought for sure I had scored a burger, but no, mom said it's too early for burgers.  The guy in the window whistled at me.  I thought that was a little odd, but I AM a handsome boy, you know!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Back on my home turf...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/613482</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 12 Aug 2009 18:22:58 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/613482</guid>
		<description>I've been doing a really good job walking with mom since we came home from NY.  It's like everything ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I've been doing a really good job walking with mom since we came home from NY.  It's like everything's new again even though it's really the same old route.  I'm loving running my snout through the tall grass as we go.  Even though there are no sidewalks here like there were in NY to keep me from trying to get around behind mom I haven't gone back to my old, bad ways from before our trip.  I honestly don't know what got into me, I mean all of the smells are on the side of the road anyways!!

On Sunday we went down the road and I could hear Nino, the neighbor dog barking at us as we passed.  He always barks so I didn't think anything of it and mom just tried to keep me moving.  Suddenly the barking got louder...hmmm...maybe he's not in the window, maybe he's in the fence...wait a minute...THERE HE IS--right in the middle of the road growling and barking!!  I know he's all bark and no bite, but I get a little jumpy around other dogs.  I just want to play you know.  Then mom starts dragging me way into the grass and Nino followed.  Phew...good call mom...there was a car coming.  Mom saved us both.  Nino's person came out and rounded him up.  Not sure how he got out--I know mom never lets me do anything like that.
Further down the road we passed the house with the littler barking dogs.  Sure enough one of the critters was tied up to the front porch.  He was just a motorin', back and forth as far as his tie out would let him go, barking the whole time.  As we passed, mom said, "boy he's getting his exercise today!!"  Unfortunately we had to turn around and pass by again.  The porch dog had gone in by then and was replaced by his sibling barking at us from the back yard.  Mom just wanted me to keep going so that the dog would stop barking but I stopped and took some extra sniffs just to torture the little guy.

On Monday we walked in the other direction, nothing eventful except the fact that I just about died from heat exhaustion.  No seriously, it was muggy.  Mom didn't even walk me all the way down to the church.  Ok so I'm being a little dramatic.  When we passed by Beau and Scout's house mom said that they'd be home later today, but I still needed to take a quick peek to be sure they weren't out in the yard.  So later mom got me to climb up in the car and I just knew we must be headed over to finally see my best pals.  I had been waiting for this for over a week!! When we first got there we were all circling this bush like sharks.  I had know idea why but I figured since Beau and Scout were doing it, it couldn't be all that bad. It was great to see them again and despite the heat we had our usual good time.  Mom's getting to be pretty smart about listening when I tell her it's time to leave so I gave her the signal and we all made our way down to the gate.  Well that is all but Scout.  She was up by the porch!  How could she diss me like that?  It's only polite to walk your guest to the gate, right?  It took some coaxing but she finally came down to say goodbye.  Slept like a log that night.

You're not going to believe this but Beau and Scout came over again this morning.  I was like a wild man trying to get everyone to play with me.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I've given up...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/612340</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 8 Aug 2009 14:34:58 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/612340</guid>
		<description>So I'm at my pals' house and I've given up on ever finding them.  My mom tried to tell me they were  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ So I'm at my pals' house and I've given up on ever finding them.  My mom tried to tell me they were not home yet and I should have just believed her.  After checking the garden mom tried to get me to play a little.  I did some zoomies around the yard and really needed a drink.  Mom had put some water from the container in the bird bath but really mom, there's bird poo in there, you think I'm going to drink THAT??  Sorry Scout, I used your dish for some water, but I made sure mom towelled off the floor when I was done.  I figured Beau'd have a cow if I used his.  I was kind of mad that you guys weren't there to play with me.  I even went down in the basement and brought one of your bones upstairs thinking mom would never notice if I tried to sneak it home with us.  Right!  She's clearly got my number.   I also recall a stuffed gorilla with no head, uh, yeah I knocked it down off its perch and tried to make off with that as well.  No dice.  Well at least I was able to leave a present for Connie in the yard.  Oh what's that mom, you have one last plastic bag in the car?  You're going to what?  Hmph...the nerve...cleaning up my little gift.  We headed back home and it was clear today was just not my day.  Hurry home guys.  We need to play, SERIOUSLY!!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Beau...Scout...WHERE ARE YOU???</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/612326</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 8 Aug 2009 12:25:56 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/612326</guid>
		<description>We finally made it home from NY safe and sound and I am already feeling the difference in temperatur ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We finally made it home from NY safe and sound and I am already feeling the difference in temperature.  Well that actually happened right about Southern PA and into MD.  I thought for sure mom would finally give up on having the windows down and crank up the AC but nope.  She is a stubborn one, that mother of mine!!

I woke up this morning and mom offered to take me for a ride in her car.  You know how I can't turn that down so off we went.  Maybe just maybe she was going to take me to my best pals' house to play.  I sure missed them while I was gone.  Beau even sent me a hot dog to try and cheer me up.  Well sure enough we pulled into their driveway but mom didn't stop by the front gate like usual...that's strange.  She drove right up to the house.  I was so excited I pulled her to the door.  I was also too excited to notice that there was no Beau or Scout at the window barking at us, guarding the house like they should be.  So she unlocked the door and let me loose!!  Wait a minute, where are they?  Is this some cruel joke?  You bring me over here and they're not home?  Wait I'll find them...they MUST just be hiding.  I searched and searched. I sniffed and I sniffed.  I even checked behind the TV, not there!!  I thought maybe I'd try some whining, surely that would make them come out of hiding.  Mom let me out on the porch and they weren't there either.  She got down some crazy water container that I tried to turn into a toy.  She said she needed to use it to water the droopy looking plants.  I don't know, I'm afraid we  may have arrived too late to save them, although I did try to nibble on some long green thing hanging by a leaf.  Mom said, NO Sabre, that's a pepper you goof!!!  Don't worry Connie, I didn't leave any teeth marks, that pepper is still completely edible.

So while mom was watering the plants I went out in the yard to leave a little present for Connie, one I knew she would love. Ha ha ha.  I tried to get back in through the doggie door as usual but much to my chagrin, when I bumped it with my big ol noggin it wouldn't budge.  I tried again and mom said it's locked silly come around to the other door.  After that mom let me in the metal fence.  Still no Beau and Scout, not even under the Gazebo, but I checked the garden and am happy to report that those plants are not as droopy as the ones inside! 

Wait there's more...]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title></title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/611611</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 5 Aug 2009 13:50:28 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/611611</guid>
		<description>Mom and sister left me with grandma and grandpa again yesterday.  It was only a short time before th ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom and sister left me with grandma and grandpa again yesterday.  It was only a short time before they returned to find me lounging out in the yard.  I was so excited to see them that I pulled to the end of the tie out when I noticed mom had my 2 favorite toys, can you guess?  It's in my profile...Yup, a soccer ball and a brand new hedgie.  Now I'm ready for some fun.

This morning we took our usual walk, but mom is really driving me crazy with her whining about how cold it is.  It's perfect for a pup like me.  Well the good thing is she lets me sniff pretty much whenever I want to.  I am really enjoying this cooler weather plus I can just lay out in the yard without being attacked by swarming bugs.  Mom, can we stay just one more day, PLEASE??????]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A taste of NY...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/611301</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 4 Aug 2009 11:43:28 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/611301</guid>
		<description>If you didn't already know this, when we come up to NY to visit, my mom is obssessive about getting  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ If you didn't already know this, when we come up to NY to visit, my mom is obssessive about getting to eat all of the foods that she misses so much in VA.  Personally I don't know why we don't just move back here, I mean it's at least 10-15 degrees cooler most days which is nice for a furry guy like myself, and they get REAL snow, not that wussy Virginia snow (a half inch and they shut everything down.)

Anyways so one of my mom's favorite things it to go to Abbott's.  She said she wouldn't take me though unless I ate my own boring dog food.   I didn't know who this Abbott guy is but mom was pretty excited so it had to be good.  I ended up eating my food then mom and I chilled outside for awhile.  Suddenly her cell phone rang and it was time to go.  I quickly followed mom to the car.  Grandpa came along too.  Cool!  So when we finally stopped the car, there was Grandma, sister, and Aunt Michele, but sadly no Harlee to play with. Mom sat down on a bench and I scooted underneath the table sniffing the remnants of what others had left behind at this Abbott's place.  Smelled like maybe I was in for a real treat, then there it was, Grandma came with a nice cold ice cream cone, just for me.  It even had a doggie biscuit on top.  Well I slurped right in around the biscuit, no time for that now, I had ice cream to gobble up.  OOOOOOH, this is soooo good!  After devouring the ice cream, cone and all, mom broke the biscuit in half and I ate that too.  Then I went after mom's ice cream but she said no, it's chocolate.  She just wanted to hog it all for herself, I know.  Oh well,  another great day in good old NY!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My day with grandma and grandpa</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/610931</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 3 Aug 2009 04:52:51 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/610931</guid>
		<description>Yesterday I could tell mom and sister were getting ready to leave, so I went to the door too.  They  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yesterday I could tell mom and sister were getting ready to leave, so I went to the door too.  They wouldn't go anywhere without me right? Nope you have to stay here buddy, grandma and grandpa will take good care of you.  Well as you recall the last time that happened, I made my escape and led them on a wild chase thru the neighborhood.  I nearly gave them heart attacks!!  I'm sure they won't let that happen again.  I watched mom pull out of the driveway and drive up the road.  I gave my best sad look but she kept going, out of sight now.  So I just chilled with them while mom and sister did some visiting.  When mom came home I couldn't contain my excitement.  Grandma said I was like a bump on a log, moved from the window to the kitchen back to the window the whole time.  They tied me out and I wouldn't even play ball with them.

Now this morning I see mom is all bundled up, no bare legs to lick.  She said it was only 57 degrees, I guess that means I'll have a comfortable walk at least.   A pup could get used to this cool weather, and very few bugs!!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Dogs can NOT walk on water...and other 4 legged tails/tales (DAY2)</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/610737</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 2 Aug 2009 07:59:34 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/610737</guid>
		<description>I couldn't wait for everyone to wake up Saturday morning because I just knew that there were new adv ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I couldn't wait for everyone to wake up Saturday morning because I just knew that there were new adventures waiting to be had.  Mom took me out for a walk but this time we went in the other direction.  This was the way over those strange silver metal stripes that cross the road and when cars go over them, they make a b-boom, b-boom, b-boom sound.  Kind of makes me nervous...I try to get myself over before a car comes.  Mom says silly they're just train tracks buddy!  Down the street a little puppy came out from between some houses to greet me.  He didn't sound too happy to see me so mom said, just keep moving.  Then we came to a creek.  Mom tried to hurry me past.  I didn't know why until I saw 2 ducks floating along out of the corner of my eye.  By then it was too late to do anything about it.  We passed a woman walking and she said something to mom and then we crossed to the other side of the road.  What did she tell mom?  Turns out there was a guy sitting on his step feeding some baby ducks.  He said hello to mom and said nice dog.  Then he said, he probably sees breakfast.  Ah, so that's why mom crossed--to remove the temptation.  Ye of little faith, I swear I would not have eaten those ducks!!  We looped around the streets and circled back towards grandma's house.  On the way back I got to meet 3 people, you know how much I love to meet new people.  What fun...uh, can you help me with this strap please, mom won't notice, or maybe just a little scratch, right about here...Anyway, back on mom's street and I see this guy in the distance, he looks kind of familiar.  As we get closer, I'm trying to get mom to let me go over to him and she does.  Oh, yes, I know him.  I met him last time we visited NY.  We usually see him out walking alot.  He loves me...He told mom I looked much calmer than the last time he saw me walking.  What? You must have me mixed up with some other dog...I've always been this well behaved. Well at least as far back as I can remember. ha ha ha.

Later on mom loaded me up into the car again.  What! No, we can't be going back to Virginia already!  We just got here.  But you know how I can't resist a car ride so I followed along like a good pup.  Thank heavens the drive did NOT take another 6 and 1/2 hours.  Just one hour over to visit my other grandparents.  I haven't seen them as much so it took time for me to get used to them.  Especially grandpa Bob.  Oh I remember at Christmas time.  I didn't let him move a muscle without woofing at him.  So of course my first reaction to him this time was a nice big WOOF.  Not long after we got into the fence sister was playing in a huge bathtub like thing and Daddy's Aunt was laying on the surface too taking a snooze.  It looked like it would be a great place for me to just chill so I stepped right out onto the clearish, blueish stuff but apparently it wasn't strong enough to hold my weight because my paws and head sank downward...wait a minute, I'm all wet...that's WATER!!!  Well that's the last time that will happen.  I shook myself off, nothing to see here people.  I loved sniffing and exploring the whole area.  I knew that there had been dogs around but where were they now.  I spent much of the time sniffing people, following them around, and laying near mommy.  Oh and don't forget taking lots of treats and mooching food that I didn't end up eating.  I think grandpa Bob and I even came to an understanding.  He's not so bad after all and I just really needed someone to play with me like daddy does.  Is that too much to ask?  It was a pretty good day overall and then it happened.  I was walking around the edge of the big tub of water and suddenly, oh you guessed it, I FELL IN--HOOK, LINE, AND SINKER, THE WHOLE SHA-BANG, HEAD ALL THE WAY UNDER!!!!  Oh no what should I do.  I'm a dog, I should be able to do the doggie paddle, right?  And do you think anyone tried to help me?  NO!  Mom went to get her camera instead, the nerve...I paddled over to the side and pulled with all my might.  After a minute of stuggle I managed to get out of that death trap they call a pool.  No thanks to my so called family.

I have more to write but my paws are getting tired after a nice long walk in the pouring rain.  I think I'm just staying at grandma's all day today so after a quick rest I'll be able to catch up.

TTFN]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Dogs can NOT walk on water...and other 4 legged tails/tales</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/610676</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 1 Aug 2009 21:33:01 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/610676</guid>
		<description>Oh...where to begin?  Friday seemed just like most other days, except the bags...mom kept moving bag ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Oh...where to begin?  Friday seemed just like most other days, except the bags...mom kept moving bags around...different bags too...the floppy green one, the black rectangle, sister's flowery rectangle, the soft square cooler bag, and even my special Akita supply bag.  First she moved everything to the kitchen.  Then she started taking things to the car.  Uh-oh, was mom going to leave me?  Mom asked me if I wanted to go for a ride in her car...well sure, of course mom, you always take me some place neat. Little did I know that I was going to be in the car for SIX AND A HALF HOURS!!! Yup that's right.  We drove up to see grandma and grandpa.  The ride was pretty uneventful, although at one point traffic was backed up and we were moving so slowly that mom put my window down low enough to stick my whole head out.  (she usually doesn't do that because she says a rock or something could ricochet up and hurt my eyes) It was raining too so I was sniffing the breeze and catching raindrops.  When we stopped for lunch at the place Beau calls McDonalds, mom bought me a burger.  S--weeeet!  She gave me the bun too but the piece was too big and I tossed it into my water dish.  You should have seen mom's face as she scooped the soggy, squishy chunk out with her bare hand.  Yuck!  When we finally arrived I saw grandma standing on her steps and I just couldn't hold back, I had to run to greet her and then it was right inside because my grandpa was waiting there for me, right on his couch just like always.  Oh I just love them!!

Later on mom took me for my evening walk.  I have to say it is much cooler up here than in VA.  What a relief!  We had a nice time and I was back to my good walking behavior, although it was pretty easy to keep going with all of the new and different smells for me.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Something strange...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/609571</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 29 Jul 2009 06:09:03 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/609571</guid>
		<description>The other night dad got home from work and he let me run up the stairs to see mommy.  It was still d ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ The other night dad got home from work and he let me run up the stairs to see mommy.  It was still dark out so I wasn't sure but I followed along.  I curled up on the bed with her then dad left, coming back in a few minutes with some strange box.  I think mom was asleep but dad said get up and open that window quick.  Mom didn't seem too happy about the whole thing, I could just tell by the look on her face! While mom was holding the curtains back and dad was trying to shove the strange box in the opening, I decided to take a peek.  Hummm...nice view you have up here!!  Well dad pushed some buttons which made beeping noises, then a loud hum and cool air began coming out of the box.  Aaahhhh this is the life!!  Mom and dad let me sleep upstairs all night.  I didn't bother them either, I just slept on the floor until mom got up in the morning.  

Last night when mom was getting ready to go up to bed I went to the bottom of the stairs, "let me come up too, mom."  No such luck, she gave me a treat and went up alone.  I decided I'd just lay by the fans downstairs and wait for dad.  Oh, finally, dad pulled up the driveway.  When he came inside I greeted him excitedly and he walked over to the stairs and removed the gate.  I raced up to see mom who mumbled a couple of words, kind of sounded like, lay down Sabre, but I can't be sure.  Dad made the magic cooling box beep and hum and I fell asleep on the floor.  It was great considering I have this thick coat.  I mean, the fans are nice and all but the magic cooling box is much better!  I don't know why mom despises it so much!!

Now this morning I followed mom downstairs and we got ready for our walk, but this is weird...she slipped on my stretchy collar with the walking leash.  No harness, no strap, just collar.  Usually stretchy collar with the leash that gets bigger means going to Beau and Scout's house. But like I said, mom used the walking leash instead.  Strange combo, mom.  So we went down the driveway and out to the road.  Wow we're really going on a walk with this collar, aren't we?  Off we went.  I was doing well not pulling ahead, then we got to Beau's driveway.  I took a chance and figured, why not try to make mom take me over to play?  Well I tried to drag her up their driveway but that mom can be almost as stubborn as me.  She said they're not even home you big goofball...]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>We had a visitor</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/609293</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 28 Jul 2009 09:14:12 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/609293</guid>
		<description>Oh my gosh, I forgot to mention that mom had a friend over yesterday and I was THE model of perfect  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Oh my gosh, I forgot to mention that mom had a friend over yesterday and I was THE model of perfect doggie behavior.  Somehow she managed to get up the driveway without me noticing so I didn't even have a chance to give her my usual greeting of woofs.  In fact I didn't notice anything until I heard the familiar crinkle of a treat package, then I knew something was up.  Before I could do any guarding of the house, mom had the door open and was handing some yummy morsels to her guest.  Well she just walked right in handing me a treat and went right past.  I could tell she wasn't afraid of me and I could also tell that she was a true doggie lover.  So mom and her friend just kept right on walking and sat in the living room and began chatting.  It couldn't have been easier.  Why can't everyone come into the house like that?I got to sniff mom's friend and I even gave her gentle kisses on her ears.  I even found a boo boo on her arm to lick.  I have healing powers you know.  I always find mom's scrapes too.  There was also something extra special about mom's friend because I could sense that she has a little puppy inside her tummy (I think mom called it a baby, but I'll stick with what I know). Sometimes I try to hide my gentler side but to all those people who call me bad or don't want to take the time to get to know me, they're really missing out.  This Sabre has a soft side.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Mom gets a clue...continued</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/609287</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 28 Jul 2009 08:47:19 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/609287</guid>
		<description>Sunday we went over to Beau and Scout's house for a playdate for more fun and frolic.  I don't remem ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Sunday we went over to Beau and Scout's house for a playdate for more fun and frolic.  I don't remember the specifics as I was so beat from the cumulative effects of all of that romping.

On Monday we were back to the normal routine, mom waking up, getting on the computer, then trying to take me for a walk before sister's swimming lessons.   She put my Sense-ation harness on and thought we were good to go.  We walked down to the end of the driveway and turned to start down the road.  We only got a few feet away...Mom I swear I'm not being bad or "stubborn" as you call it on purpose...you try walking in this weather with this fur coat.  Yes I know she usually puts on a sweatshirt, but that's nothing compared to what I have to wear every day.  She has no idea how terribly hot I get!!  We would walk a couple of steps and I just stopped.  I had to put my foot down.  Well today was different because instead of jumping up and down, running, coaxing with treats, she just said, Fine, back in the house if you don't want to walk!!  And I must say I was more than happy to oblige.   Mom finally got the hint, well I think she did...we'll see tomorrow.

Later in the day mom wanted to take me in the fence.  I was a little wary because I knew it had to be even hotter out than the morning but I followed her thinking I could probably use a potty break.  Well, she left me in the fence for a minute and came back with a ginormous water dish.  I mean this thing was HUGE!!  I didn't like how she kept trying to spray me while she filled it up, but once she was done, I moved in for a thirst quenching slurp.  Strange thing about it though, mom kept trying to get me to put all 4 paws in the dish, then she threw a toy in and kept splashing me like she was trying to get me to play in the water.  I don't know about any other pups, but when you're that thirsty there's just no time for nonsense.  Oh well, it did cool me down a bit having my paws in the dish so that was neat.  I think I like my giant water dish, maybe she'll put it out again.  We actually didn't do much else at all yesterday, just a nice relaxing day of naps and potty breaks.  And I almost forgot...mom has officially decided to start changing my food. I really like the new flavor and she was quite happy with how much I ate yesterday.  Hopefully she'll keep this kind for awhile and maybe I'll even get to try out another new kind when that's gone!!

All I have to say is, Hey mom--new concept--why don't you try walking me BEFORE you sit down to check your email and dogster?  Those things can wait!  I mean, who's your baby, right?  It will be slightly cooler and maybe I'll enjoy the walk more this way.  Well the gods must have listened because for some reason mom got up today and walked me first thing.  Just 45 minutes to an hour earlier and it truly made all the difference in the world as far as my comfort level.  I was not too hot and I made MOSTof the walk without any signs of stubbornness.  No, I can't say I was perfect...I did have a couple of bouts of the slows, but mostly I picked up the pace when mom asked me to so we could keep the forward progress going.  One thing I did try again was to get her to let me wander out into the road on her right side instead of always staying on her left.  I know she doesn't like it because my road is not the safest for walking.  She says I must be watching those neighborhood pups that don't move over for cars and that's not a good example to be following, humph!  All in all, a successful walk, a few degrees cooler than usual--follow that up a little while later with my new food and we're off to a great start!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Mom gets a clue</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/609274</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 28 Jul 2009 08:20:18 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/609274</guid>
		<description>First off, let me just say how dogtastic it was to have not just one, but two playdates with my best ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ First off, let me just say how dogtastic it was to have not just one, but two playdates with my best pals Beau and Scout this weekend.  Mom says it's because they're going away for a bit and we might go up to NY to visit grandma so we must get lots of playtime in.  Don't get me wrong, I love going to NY AND I bet it's cooler there, but life is not the same without my biweekly playdates.  Besides that, mom says I won't be able to play with my cousin Harlee because last time we got together she injured her knee.  Nobody wants to risk having to pay for THAT surgery again for her good knee, so it's out of the question.
Oh, back to the playdate.  It was getting pretty late but mom said I should go out in the fence to see if Beau and Scout were coming.  Sure enough I heard those poor neighbor dogs barking up a storm and knew my pals would appear shortly.  And not to worry, if I had missed the signal from the neighbors, there was no missing the smell that was wafting over from down the driveway.  As they got closer I was wondering what Scout had gotten herself into this time.  I knew it couldn't be Beau.  Then I realized...it was Mark.  Geez, what were you rolling in today, man?  That's alright, it didn't stop me from getting in all of the flying licks I could, that is when I managed to tear myself away from chasing and chicken legging Scout!!  It was getting really REALLY dark out.  I guess it's times like these when it pays to have a shiny white coat.  Beau and Scout were almost camouflaged but Mark kept shining his flashlight and their eyes would just light up--neato trick guys!!  The fireflies tried to help too, although I hate it when they try to catch rides on my back.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Junior Dog Ranger--that's me!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/608487</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 25 Jul 2009 08:23:31 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/608487</guid>
		<description>That's right...I'm officially a Junior Dog Ranger at Monocacy National Battlefield.  Well that may b ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ That's right...I'm officially a Junior Dog Ranger at Monocacy National Battlefield.  Well that may be stretching the truth just a wee bit.  My sister earned her Junior Ranger badge yesterday on our newest adventure.  I helped though, I swear.  Who was the one sniffing out the information she needed to answer the questions? ME!  Visiting another battlefield with mom was pretty cool.  I tried to let her stop and read as many of those plaques she won't let me pee on as I could but I got antsy after awhile. So we went on a little hike to see where the soldiers crossed the river.  I was hot on the trail of some animals of the wild sort but mom kept me moving forward.  There was some cool, squelchy mud near the river which I loved marching through. We saw a couple of houses where much of the fighting happened.  I tried to find a way in but no luck.  I met a nice Park Ranger at one house who gave me lots of scratches.  He just thought I was the funniest. Believe me man, you have no idea who you're dealing with!!

Well sister had finished up most of her activities but there were still 2 questions left to answer.  So we drove back to the main building in order to could get what she needed.  We all got out of the car and walked up but then sister went inside...without me...wait...don't you need my help???  We're a team, right?  No dogs allowed, mom said.  So we walked around outside a bit, but then I got bored with that and we went to sit in the car with some water and some cool air.  Mom said she usually doesn't like air conditioning but it wasn't safe for a large pup like me to be stuck in a hot car, so we waited together for sister to come back...and we waited...and we waited.  I thought she'd never return.  Mom and I were just chillin' and then finally, there she was.  She hopped in the car and showed us the badge.  Awesome, so shiny and gold.  Yup, you can just pin it here, right here on my Sense-ation harness sister.  That'll really snazz it up, won't it?  Umm, what...where's mine?  You only got one? Oh, sugar plum!!  Then she wanted to show off the Ranger pledge-- she raised her right hand and I put up my paw and well the rest is history.  So here I am, the newest Junior Dog Ranger, maybe the only Junior Dog Ranger at Monocacy National Battlefield! Woohoo!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I'm in trouble...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/608159</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 23 Jul 2009 20:05:05 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/608159</guid>
		<description>Well I must have done something wrong because mom went back to the strappy collar for my walk yester ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well I must have done something wrong because mom went back to the strappy collar for my walk yesterday.  I admit I was a li-ttle bit stubborn on our walks Monday and Tuesday, but I only stopped and refused to move 5 or 6 times.  That's not so bad, mom.  I did keep trying to make her let me walk in the middle of the road too.  She was not having any part of that!!  AND let's not forget the biting of the leash.  What's wrong with a little game of tug anyways?  Hmph!!  So she said my antics were going to make sister late for her swimming lessons.  Bah, she doesn't need those lessons.  Did you see that picture of me in the ocean?  I'm an awesome swimmer--I'll have her doing the proper doggy paddle in no time!!  Of course last night mom had to go blab to Mark all about how much of a stinker I've been.  Geez mom, you're embarrassing me in front of my friends!!

Yesterday Mom started playing a new game with me that she saw on TV.  She took one of my stuffies outside and she hid with it.  Then I had to go and find her.  That was pretty fun!  Today mom and sister took me to 2 different pet stores and I got to meet new people.  They even gave her some food samples for me to try.  She mixed one pouch in with my dinner and boy did I scarf it right up.  Mom said that's the quickest she's seen me empty my dish EVER!  I hope she buys a bigger bag of THAT food.  Speaking of food, when we got home from the petstore adventure...oh did I mention I got a burger from McDonalds.  Anyways back on track, we got home and there was a HUGE box on the porch.  Mom struggled to drag it inside and I was right on the scene sniffing away.  It smelled like the package was for me so I thought I might help her open it up.  Ooohh. It is definitely some new food for me.  Mom's tryin' to mix things up a bit.  I hope I like it!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>my sense-ation harness</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/607088</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 20 Jul 2009 08:46:44 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/607088</guid>
		<description>I walked with the harness again today.  Everything went fine except the walk was so long, we made si ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I walked with the harness again today.  Everything went fine except the walk was so long, we made sister late for her swimming lessons.  Now if I can only talk to Beau and Scout to ask them how they avoid getting the ouchies in their armpits from the harness straps!!

TTFN]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>a different walk today</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/606800</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 19 Jul 2009 08:54:23 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/606800</guid>
		<description>First of all, I had a blast when my pals came over last night.  It wasn't easy getting over seeing t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ First of all, I had a blast when my pals came over last night.  It wasn't easy getting over seeing them on the walk in the morning and not being able to play, but mom did promise me I'd see them later and she didn't lie.  My sister even came out for some fun.  Now dad has never met Beau and Scout.  He came over to the fence to talk to mom and Beau started being very protective.  I tried to let him know that it's ok, just my dad dude.  I know that deep down Beau is just a big softy like me so no worries.  Dad didn't seem to mind being woofed at either.  He does have lots of experience with big, goof ball dorks, ya know!!

Now that mom is home for the summer it's easier for her to mix things up a bit and take me on walks at all different places.  Today she took me to the place she calls the bike path.  I like it there with all of the dog, squirrel, and sweaty people smells.  Best of all, for some strange reason mom did not put the strappy thing on my snout today.  She brought out the big black straps that clip under my chest.  Gosh mom, I haven't seen this thing in months.  I didn't know what to think.    Well we got to the path and I tried to be on best behavior so maybe mom will use this contraption again.  We walked quite a long way before I got to meet any people though.  Everyone on the path seemed to be too busy exercising to want to greet.  Humph!!  Well!

Finally we made our way around town to the place with the water that comes out in a small stream.  It's not like the plastic thing mom pours from at home.  It's kind of high like the bird bath at Beau's house that I like to drink out of except, I cannot quite reach.  I forgot to mention usually when we get to this place, there are all kinds of people hanging out there with their 2 wheeled exercise machines.  Oh no, mom realized she forgot the foldable bowl in the car so she began filling up a bottle for me to drink when we get there.  I was looking longingly at the bottle and other people's bottles too when my savior arrived.  He said they have a dog dish across the street and he'd go get it for me.  He came back and filled it up and I got a nice, cool drink.  Funny thing, even without the strap on my snout I made sure to rub up on a few of the people and got plenty of scratches while they were talking to mom about me.  Oh she loves to talk about me!!

So we finished our walk to the car.  Some guy came up asking my mom about me and I let him walk with us for awhile.  When I didn't sit right away at the cross walk, he continued on and I had to wait.    Got to the parking lot and I saw a teeny dog like at the dog park.  I didn't go into attack mode or anything but mom got nervous and made me stay away.  

See mom, if you read this I want you to know that I can behave on a walk without the strap on my snout.  Try it again sometime, k??]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>THE HOUNDS OF HELL</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/606493</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 18 Jul 2009 07:01:50 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/606493</guid>
		<description>I was extra stubborn and cautious on our walk today.  There were bikes and big loud trucks moving gi ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I was extra stubborn and cautious on our walk today.  There were bikes and big loud trucks moving giant piles of hay around, people riding horses, motorcycles...all kinds of things that made me a little nervous.  Mom kept asking me if I was hurt.  She looked at my leg and poked around, even lifted my leg to check my back paw.  It was funny standing there watching her do all kinds of things to try to get me moving again.  Who's the goofball now??

We were getting pretty close to the turn onto the street for home and then we heard it--the hounds of hell!!!  Well, that's what mom decided to call the neighbor dogs who are tied out all day every day.  Poor pups have no life, AND they bark and bark whenever someone or some dog goes by.  Mom feels bad for them too.  I knew it had to be either the lady with the big, goofy white dog and its sidekicks, or could it be?? My best pals coming home from THEIR walk too.  Naw, couldn't be.  I think they usually walk earlier than this.  I wanted to go inspect the situation but now it was mom making us stop.  Then I saw them.  First I saw Mark, then oh yeah, it's Beau and Scout.  Hey wait guys, I'm coming, I'll be there in just a few...no, don't keep going up the driveway...look, it's me...noooooooo!  Ugh, I tried everything to catch up with them, but they vanished out of sight.  Mom said they probably had plans for the day and it was getting to be too warm for a playdate anyways.  Then she threw in the dagger, "do you think you deserve to play with them now after how stubborn you were on the walk?"  What,  who me?  I was a prince, what are you talking about? Umm...I was just trying to protect YOU mom.  Gee that's the thanks I get!  Oh that really hurts a pup's feelings!  

I even stopped across from their driveway but to no avail.  Mom said we'll get to play with them today or tomorrow sometime anyway.  Ok, so we made OUR way past the hounds of hell, and back home.  I tried to cross the street to our yard before mom was ready and she didn't like that so much, so she made me get back over and cross at our driveway.  Well home sweet home at last.  Time for a little nap!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Another day...another adventure</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/606266</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 17 Jul 2009 08:59:37 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/606266</guid>
		<description>Mom finally got her butt moving this morning to take me for our usual walk.  So after I peed in the  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom finally got her butt moving this morning to take me for our usual walk.  So after I peed in the yard she asked if I wanted to go for a ride in her car.  Are you kidding me?  Do you even have to ask?  I had no idea where we were going but I could tell it wasn't to Beau and Scout's house.  Yes I know, you must think I'm some sort of wuss to have mom drive me a couple houses down the road to play.  She just gets nervous walking me home on our country road after dusk.  I don't glow in the dark, ya know!!

Anyways, I'm excited to see where we're headed.  I know mom wouldn't take me to the kennel again where the guy scared the crap out of me.  She learned her lesson and she's been working so hard to show me that I can trust her to do the protecting.  Back to the story...We start heading back thru this heavily wooded area and I am just anticipating a great walk.  Finally she stops the car and lets me out.  UGH...she won't let me go anywhere until I look at her, so I give in, look up, hear the click but it's much too exciting to take the treat I know is on the way toward my mouth.  So many smells.  We begin walking but mom stops to read a sign.  I noticed that another dog has been there before me, well many dogs, but mom won't let me pee there.  She said it's not polite.  We start walking again and I realize I have to do my "other" business.  After mom bags it she insists on taking it back to the car to set in the parking lot.  She doesn't want to carry that around for 40 minutes or so, and frankly, I don't blame her, but GEESH, can we get to the walking please??  I want to find all of the other dogs and maybe even some squirrels or rabbits.  We had a nice walk, never did find those other dogs, and mom kept stopping to read signs.  She kept talking to herself, "ok, let me get this straight, 15th and 20th Mass., 42nd New York and 1st California...Devens, Bartlett, Milton Cogswell, Senator Baker."  Mom must be out of her mind!!  What is she babbling on about??? 

We got back into the car and drove for a little bit, parked in another lot.  No woods here, just lots of cars and some people.  OMG!!  Is this the place Beau calls Home Depot??  I've been here a few times.  Oh yes it is.  He reminds me all the time that I really need to go there to see the hot dog lady.  Last time I saw her she gave me some strange long cold food treat.  I didn't quite know how to eat it so mom broke it into bits for me.  I bet Beau gulps it down whole.  Anyhow, what gives, I don't see a hot dog lady.  What? Only weekends?  Isn't Friday kind of the weekend?  Well we met a nice man in the parking lot who told mom about a Japanese man who helped Akitas.  I got some scratches from him.  I met a nice worker in store too.  There were many people and some beeping sounds that really had me on the alert.  All in all it was a nice adventure and mom is always proud when I meet new people in a well mannered way.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>It's only fair...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/606097</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 16 Jul 2009 16:32:37 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/606097</guid>
		<description>I think it's only fair that since my pal Beau taught me how to bark at cars from behind my fence, my ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I think it's only fair that since my pal Beau taught me how to bark at cars from behind my fence, my mom is allowed to make him lay down to get a treat.  He still got the treat, right??? It's all good!!

AND I must admit, Beau, mom is going a little command crazy lately.  She has been working on having me look at her, uh, ok, that's not too hard.   I think she thinks she can use some sort of Jedi Mind trick to distract me from the things that make me go bonkers on our walks.  I do speak Wookie after all!  She didn't know it but I saw that little fawn in the field today...I just chose to not try to bound after it.  I let her believe that her new little command worked to distract me by looking at her a couple of times, but I saw that deer.  You betcha!

She said she's sick of me bouncing around in the car because I stand up so she actually made me sit before she would even close her door and start the car.  Then at the end of our driveway she stopped again to make me sit.  She even did it at the end of Beau's driveway.  Now how's a guy to sit down when he's so excited about going on a playdate.  She wasn't budging so again, I sat.  Then the final straw, she actually put me in a stay and opened the door.  Boy was she really testing my patience, but I waited for the release command then jumped down and sprinted for the gate to see my best friends.

My last thought for the day involves dads...my mom and sister were gone for a mere two days and they came home to find that dad had bought a chainsaw.  Now I ask you, how many new toys did Beau and Scout's dad buy while their mom was gone for A WHOLE MONTH???!!!  I can only imagine.  Go men!! hahahahahahah]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Mom's home for the summer</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/602796</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 5 Jul 2009 07:17:23 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/602796</guid>
		<description>Now I know it's true for sure.  Mom is definitely home for the summer!  That means extra walks, more ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Now I know it's true for sure.  Mom is definitely home for the summer!  That means extra walks, more playtime and car rides, and most important of all more love.  Yeah, I know it sounds sappy, but for some reason that woman loves me like crazy.  In the past few days we've been all over the place.  We went to Petsmart and met a few people.  I was a model of appropriate doggy behavior.  I just love it when mom is proud of me.  Mom knows by now that I like to meet everyone I see out in public, so she was letting me go up to people who looked like they wanted to meet me.  She was even giving me real chicken for being good! I was so comfy there that I even gave a couple of people some of my famous kisses.  I also pleaded with everyone who would let me rub on them to get the strap off my snout but they kept saying "No, your mommy wants you to have it on!"  I went up to the worker at least 3 times but mom said "He's still not going to help you Sabre!"

On Saturday we hopped in the car again.  OOOh, I get so excited when mommy says we are going for a ride.  I know she's going to take me somewhere with new smells and lots of people to meet, maybe even some doggy friends.  So we went to the bike path and showed off some of my leash walking skills.  I met some people who thought they were being funny by asking mom who is going to walk who.  She explained how I really don't pull that much and that we even run together, although she had to teach me that trick.  They seemed pretty impressed but seeing is believing so I showed them how I walk so nicely next to mom.  I also stopped and sat perfectly at every crosswalk, and boy there were a lot of them through town.

Now this morning, I just don't know WHAT she was thinking!!  I thought that mom said that I can't run with her if it's 50 degrees or above because of my thick fur coat.  Well, she decided that it felt cool enough for us to run together. WHAT!?!  It's got to be at least in the high 60's out here!  Mom are you NUTS??  We were running past the little church and I so wanted to meet the people walking in, but mom just talked to them for a second as we ran past.  FINALLY, we stopped running and turned around to head back.  She let me walk and sniff because she said NOW it's too warm for me to run.  REALLY?! Thanks mom!  A-ha, as we rounded the corner going past the church again, there was the same lady.  Mom said she was talking on her little phone and not to bother her but...I was not going to be denied...must...meet...her...and sure enough she had her arms wide open to greet me, so mom said ok.  Well after that I just dragged butt home.  I even stopped and rolled around a couple of times in protest.  That oughta teach mom to make me run in this scorching heat!!

Now she says she's leaving me home with dad to go to some place called Hershey!  I'm pretty sure it was Hershey Kisses that I got in trouble for eating once when I was a young pup, wrapper and all.  Why in the world would mom go there if I can't eat the stuff she calls chocolate?]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>sunshine at last</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/578611</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 12 Apr 2009 11:43:02 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/578611</guid>
		<description>This weekend started with mom being all depressed about this thing she calls &quot;stupid hockey team&quot; mo ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ This weekend started with mom being all depressed about this thing she calls "stupid hockey team" most of the day Friday.  Then it rained and rained and rained much of the day Saturday.  Talk about depressing.  Mom took me out to go potty in the morning.   I know it's a bad situation when she pulls out the gigantic umbrella with the dog that looks like me on it.  That means no sniffing and tracking,  just potty and right back inside.  I spent most of the day perched on the couch peeking out my window.  Then...it happened, the clouds broke and there was sunshine at last.  Mom said, let's go for a walk since the yard is wet, and I was more than happy to get that strappy collar on just to have the chance to get out of the house.  Well ok,  I'm lying, I NEVER like to get the "special" collar on.  That means mom wants to think she's in control.  She cornered me finally and hooked everything up and out we went.  It was a nice leisurely walk.  Nothing eventful.  I got to meet a neighbor who has 3 dogs.  

As usual, I tend to slow things down a bit when we go past Beau and Scout's house.  I was rubbing my snout on mom like crazy, trying to get her to turn into their driveway.  I even heard Beau WOOF out a greeting to us.  But she still would not take me over there.  So, home we went.  We were in for no more than 30 minutes when the phone rang.  Mom began laughing as she went to answer it.  I knew something was up.  Usually on the weekend when the phone rings, it's a call to set up a play date for me.  A while later, Mom pretended that she was just taking me out to go potty but I'm no fool.  She hooked that leash up to my regular collar and I could barely contain my excitement.   9 times out of 10 a phone call plus leash hooked to collar means going to Beau's house, in which case, I make mom run all the way there.  She tells me not to pull her down into the ditch but it's so much fun.  Then it's into their driveway and I go immediately into stalking mode.  Mom says I'm such a dork, but I just think it's all part of the fun.  Beau, Scout, and Mark were waiting at the fence for us.

We had a blast.  Beau joined in on the fun sometimes too.  Beau's mom, Connie came out a little while later.  Eventually we all went on their porch and the people were eating something with forks.  I sniffed around but no scraps or crumbs for me.  Mom said you could taste the burnt part but she's picky anyways.  Later we all went down to the fence to see who Connie was talking to.  Beau started barking like crazy.  I wasn't sure what the fuss was but I figured birds of a feather flock together, so I joined in.  2 guard dogs are better than 1.  

Speaking of "birds", mom kept accusing Mark of flipping the bird at her.  Where, I don't see any birds??!!!  Let me at 'em! Maybe it had something to do with her saying he burnt the "sugarplum" cake, but I'm still not quite making the connection there.  Then mom said she might flip the bird too.  Oh well, I don't care how wacky our people get, as long as they keep having our play dates, that's all that matters.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Mom's in a mood</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/577955</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 10 Apr 2009 07:17:20 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/577955</guid>
		<description>I know I promised another entry in the adventures of history dog but my goodness.  Someone needs to  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I know I promised another entry in the adventures of history dog but my goodness.  Someone needs to come here pronto and shake mom out of this funk she's in.  She hardly said 2 words to me on our walk this morning.  You see, she tried to explain it but it's hard for a young pup like myself to understand all of this hockey talk, even if I am her favorite team's namesake.

She's been in a somber mood since she checked the scores online.  Although her Sabres won last night by 4 goals, their playoff hopes are gone because of some dumb Rangers.  She says it's their fault anyways since they hurt some guy named "the goalie" a while back.  I'm not sure what that all means, but I do wonder how long she's going to be down and out.  Cheer up mom.  There's always next season, and did you really mean it when you said you might have to change my name??]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>nice trip but glad to be home</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/577696</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 9 Apr 2009 09:21:59 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/577696</guid>
		<description>Pt. 1--the adventure begins...

So, apparently mom thinks that part of being a well-rounded, cultu ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Pt. 1--the adventure begins...

So, apparently mom thinks that part of being a well-rounded, cultured pup entails visiting historic sites with the family.  Being the adventure dog that I am, I was up for the trip.  I knew something was going on Monday morning as everyone in the house was moving bags, walking out to some strange, big vehicle and back again.  Don't get me wrong, I had a great visit at  my friends' house last week while my people went to the hockey game (not sure why I couldn't go, after all I am named after the team),  and they took great care of me, but I was not ready to be left again quite so soon.  Finally mom said, wanna go for a ride.  YES!!  They're taking me with them!!  The drive was not so bad.  In fact it was strange because I had the whole back area to myself.  I wasn't quite sure what to do with sooo much space.  Usually I'm crammed into the back seat with my kid sister.

We finally arrived at our hotel, pretty nice.  Of course I had to check things out, make sure everything was safe for my family.  Then I decided to just chill for awhile.  Nothing major going on the first night there.  Mom took me for an evening walk through a town called Colonial Williamsburg, whatever that means. All I know is when we got there, the side of the road was very bumpy and difficult to walk on.  Then there were these white sharp things covering some of the sidewalks too.  Mom kept saying, let's not walk on those shells Sabre.  They might hurt your paws.    Great idea mom!  We passed a good number of people and I tried to be on my best behavior.  

The next morning, mom got up pretty early to take me on our next adventure.  Mom said we were going to walk to Colonial Williamsburg,  AGAIN.  Humph, I guess that's the place to be.    You would not believe all the squirrels, just daring me to get them!  Mom would not let me chase them though.  I tried to follow one up a tree but that didn't go so well.  Plus mom was busy making me pose in front of a bunch of different buildings.  Geez mom, do you NOT have enough pictures of me yet? Seriously, I don't even know what she meant when she said, how 'bout one in front of the Magazine.  Magazine, REALLY, I thought a magazine was that paper thing that daddy keeps in the bathroom...Just one more baby...look at momma...Sabre...that's what she always says.  I was a good pup and I let her take her pictures.  It makes her happy.  I even met a few people in the street who gave me some love.  Just can't resist my charm.  On the way back to the hotel we passed some women gardening behind a fence.  Boy I sure wanted to get in there and help them dig.  I peeked my head in through the slats.  From what I could gather from their conversation with mom, they seemed open to the idea and would have welcomed the help.  They must have seen my big paws--hard to hide my digging prowess!  Alas, we kept walking.  Mom said we had more planned for our day and we needed to get back to the room for some breakfast.

Pt. 2--Historic Jamestown--more to follow...]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Something strange going on...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/576010</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 4 Apr 2009 04:43:48 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/576010</guid>
		<description>I'm not sure what's going on.  I'm starting to think mom doesn't love me anymore.  Not that I'm comp ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I'm not sure what's going on.  I'm starting to think mom doesn't love me anymore.  Not that I'm complaining about extra playing, but she just left me at Beau and Scout's house.  Just left me.  She never does that!  Mom always stays to watch me play.    Then two other days, Beau and Scout's people came right into my house, mom was nowhere in sight, and they just took me.  Does this mean I'm growing up?  What if I don't want to?

One day out of the blue, Beau's Dad Mark came over while mom was gone.  That was really strange.  I didn't recognize him at first so I had to give a few guard dog woofs at the unfamiliar car in my driveway.  Then I realized it was him and I was so excited.  He's like a second dad, you know.  I think Dads are just big 'ol puppies in disguise.  That's why they let me get away with the crazy stuff like play biting and jumping. Moms on the other hand are "in charge" or at least they like to think that.  That's why if I had to pick a second mom, Scout's mom Connie would be my choice.  No one could love me as much as my very own mom, but I get the feeling that Connie  likes me well enough, ever if she does call me Dork number 2, or 1, I forget!   I think that changes depending on what trouble Beau and I are getting into.

So, back to the story, Mark came in and I was doing my best flying kisses.  I spun and spun until I calmed down.  Then it got even stranger...He took me out into my own yard.  Well this was different, but I couldn't pass up the opportunity.  I showed off my moves. I bounced to the left and leaped to the right.  I even gave him my play bow.  This is how I manage to get Beau running after me sometimes so I thought this might work on Mark.  We didn't play long before he was trying the same old trick mom does.   She tries to get close to me and is all sweet and then, BAM!  She's got my collar and she's dragging me in.  Well, I've seen that trick done a number of times so when Mark tried it the first time, I had to show him that I was onto him.  After awhile though, I could not resist the special treats that he was offering any longer.  Something about having another dog's treats just makes them taste  even better than my own.  He took me back inside and shortly after, mom and my sister came home.  Now all the while I was playing with Mark, I kept wondering, where were Beau and Scout?  Did they get into some kind of mischief and get put in lock down?

Little did I know, I would find out the answer on Friday...]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title></title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/561826</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 17 Feb 2009 15:23:13 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/561826</guid>
		<description>Copy this diary entry, and paste it into your diary. Read and then delete my answers. Then you can f ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Copy this diary entry, and paste it into your diary. Read and then delete my answers. Then you can fill in your own! We can get to know our pals better!! Have fun!! Then send a rosette or pawmail to 4 pals and ask them to post it in their diary!!!!

1. What color is your collar?

I have a black one and a khaki one

2. What kind of food do you eat?

Taste of the Wild-High Prairie flavor

3. What are your favorite treats?

Just about any treat is a good treat...

4. Do you have a Valentine or significant other??

Last week mom said that I was her Valentine.  If we're talking dogs, it's gotta be Scout.


5. Do you get Table Scraps?

That's hard to do when my people do not eat at a table...lol

6. What is your favorite toy?

any stuffy, usually some type of hedgie or smallish animal

7. When is your Birthday?

Nov. 30th, 2008

8. How many times a day do you get to eat?

Mom usually gives me 3 helpings.

9. Do you have a favorite color?

Blue and gold of course--go Sabres!!

10. Do you hope all your pals put this in their diary?

I hope so]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>this weekend</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/558223</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 8 Feb 2009 08:28:36 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/558223</guid>
		<description>Yesterday mom told me that we were going for  a ride in her car.  I loooovvvve to go for rides so mu ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yesterday mom told me that we were going for  a ride in her car.  I loooovvvve to go for rides so much that when she took me out to go potty before we left, I started running to the car mid-pee.  Mom said that was really gross.  Oh well, there is a blanket covering her back seat so that shouldn't be a problem, right?  It was a pretty long drive, for awhile I thought we might be heading for NY to see grandma and grandpa, oh boy.  But then we came to a stop at a house with a metal fence.  There were some small dogs outside to greet me, and a lady came out too.  I wasn't sure at first but I followed mom and the lady into the house.  I could just smell the other dogs in the air, on the floor, everywhere.  Was mom going to leave me here?  Was this the bad place where I get poked and prodded?  I explored and took treats from the nice lady.  I also gave mom a few jumping bumps to let her know that it was not ok to leave me here if that was what she was thinking.  After exploring a bit, I noticed something familiar on the floor.  Could it be, Beau's rings?  Here?  Why would Beau's rings be here?  That was strange. There were stuffed toys too.  This could be good.   Oooh, the nice lady is taking me outside, maybe Beau's out there... Nope guess not.  But I could tell that lots of dogs had been there because there was plenty of poo to sniff.  While I was there another dog and his family came to visit too.  I went back inside and checked out these cool rooms with beds.  The place wasn't so bad.  We'll see, mom says we have to go back to visit again sometime.

When we got back from our long drive I dragged mom over to Beau and Scout's house to return his rings and to tell them all about my visit.  They said that they go to the nice lady's house sometimes to stay and that it's pretty fun.  Plus she gives them lots of treats.  I can deal with that.

This morning mom took me for a run.  I know she's probably going to be mad at me but I've decided that 55 degrees is just too warm for the usual 3 mile run.  That could put quite a damper on her training but who's the run for, me or her, right?  I say me, but mom might have another idea.  She loves the warm temps but says that the cold weather better come back at least long enough for her to get into good shape for soccer season.  You see, she told me that it's more fun to run with me than by herself so I am her primary motivation!  Humm, that sounds fancy, I kind of like that title better than dork, what do ya think??!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Tails of woe</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/556607</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 3 Feb 2009 14:31:17 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/556607</guid>
		<description>This weekend's playdate did not go well.  I was so excited that my best pals were coming over here a ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ This weekend's playdate did not go well.  I was so excited that my best pals were coming over here again.  I just love my new hang out in the back yard.  I don't know what was with Beau and Scout on Sunday.  They just would not play with me like they usually do.  Now, I thought my new fence was so cool, I've got the bamboo jungle, the obstacles to jump over, a slide, toys, a stump for our water bowls,  all the sticks you could ask for, even a clubhouse.  Scout just kept running into the bamboo to hide.  We had a couple good runs but other than that it was a real dud.  I tried to have some manly dog time too.  I went with the zig and came with the zag.  I had an extra bounce in my step now that the hockey rink had melted.  Even my best howling, not even wookie, I mean real attention getting howling, would not do the trick.  I had to resort to hanging out with Mark to get them jealous so they would pay attention to me.  I'm hoping we'll be back in action this weekend and all will be back to normal.  I want my playmates back. ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!

Maybe it was because it was warmer out or maybe Beau is a momma's boy like me and was pouty because his mom was not there.  I've been told I'm a momma's boy too.  Don't worry Beau, I won't tell.  It'll be our secret...

oops, did I click enter? Noooooooo...]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>It was a long night...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/555793</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 1 Feb 2009 13:38:11 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/555793</guid>
		<description>I was so excited that mom got to stay home with me all day Tuesday and Wednesday.  I personally love ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I was so excited that mom got to stay home with me all day Tuesday and Wednesday.  I personally love the snow but I guess for some reason down here in Virginia, less than an inch sends the whole area into a tailspin, pardon the pun.  Everything was going great, then Wednesday afternoon, mom took me outside and I knew something was up.  Sure enough she left me home alone with Grandma and sister.  She rarely does that.  It must have been something really important for her to leave me like that.  I thought I overheard her say something about the killers??  Sounds pretty scary to me.  I prefer to play with nice dogs, but hey whatever, mom must know what she's doing.  Later that night, Grandma took me outside for my before bed potty break, which was unusual.  Mom must not have been home yet.  Well, we got out there and it was like a hockey rink  in the yard.  I just could not pee in those deplorable conditions.  Ya know mom did name me after the Buffalo Sabres but this was ridiculous.  I can body check with the best of them but Afinogenov I am not.  So Grandma brought me back inside and we waited.  And waited.  Finally mom came home.  I hope she's ok, I thought.  More importantly, I knew she'd be able to do something about the yard and I'd be able to go potty.  She walked in and immediately got out the leash, oh relief at last...No such luck.  She could not do anything about the ice either.  We walked and walked and walked but I could just not make it happen.  Grandma even tried to break up some of the ice with a shovel.  I was slipping and sliding all over and mom was getting upset.  She kept pleading with me to just find a spot and go.  Finally I just sat down in the middle of the ice and looked up at her, please mom, can't you fix this?  You can do anything.  Apparently not because she dragged my scrawny butt back in the house.  I gave a big stomp and howl so she took me out one last time.  It was no use.  I spent the entire night holding my pee, hoping that things would look better in the morning.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I heard a rumor...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/552505</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 23 Jan 2009 15:08:12 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/552505</guid>
		<description>Not to sound stalkerish or anything but I heard that some strange dog followed Beau and Scout home t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Not to sound stalkerish or anything but I heard that some strange dog followed Beau and Scout home the other day.  I was jealous at first but then I read Beau's diary.  So, Scout doesn't offer her chicken legs up to just anyone. Well that's a relief.  And  I saw those pictures...that dog is no where near as handsome as me anyways.

I hope my best buds can come over again soon!!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Another playdate already</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/552125</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 22 Jan 2009 14:23:16 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/552125</guid>
		<description>So, we only had my new fence for a whole day and Beau and Scout came over AGAIN!!!   I could hardly  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ So, we only had my new fence for a whole day and Beau and Scout came over AGAIN!!!   I could hardly contain my excitement when I saw them walking up the drive for the second day in a row.   You see apparently, Scout needed some protecting and I was just the pup for the job.  For some reason there were alot of gunshots on Saturday and Mark thought it best that we all play together instead of going on a walk.  You know how Scout just hates gunshots.

We had a blast once again.  I was feeling more confident than ever in my own yard.  I even gave Beau a couple of chest bumps to try to get him to chase Scout with me.  I kept saying c'mon let's just go into the bamboo.  We can take her.  It's difficult for me to decide who to play with sometimes because I love running after Scout but then there are times when I feel like I just want to be one of the guys.   Maybe that's why I hang out around Mark so much.  I mean, the momma's boy stuff is only cute for so long, then it gets embarrassing. There's a certain integrity that must be maintained amongst us cool guys.  Is "dork" another word for cool guy??? Because if it is, Beau and I are tops.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Finally</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/550549</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 18 Jan 2009 11:30:57 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/550549</guid>
		<description>My life has changed in the best way over the past few weeks.  It all started when Dad finally agreed ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My life has changed in the best way over the past few weeks.  It all started when Dad finally agreed to let mom get a fence for me.  I didn't know what was going on at the time but I knew something was up when this strange guy came to visit the house--TWICE!!  The first time we walked around the yard and he had this strange rolling wheel thingy on a stick.  I tried to chase it a little bit but mostly I just jumped around and showed off.  I'd seen one of those thingys in the fall when other strange men came to the house, but those guys never came back.  Well, mom let the stranger come into our house even.  He did give me a treat and I let him talk to mom in the kitchen for a little while.  I barked at him a couple of times just to make sure he knew that  I was the man of the house.  So he left and I thought that surely I had scared him off for good.  Little did I know what mom was planning for he did come back a couple days later.  We walked around the yard again but this time he sprayed something weird onto the grass in a couple of spots.  I still couldn't figure out why exactly he was back again but I let him come in one more time because mom seemed to think it was ok and she looked so happy. 

About a week later, dad and I were awakened to many strange men milling about in the driveway and yard.  I barked out a warning but they just kept working on something.  Finally dad let me come upstairs to protect him from up there.  Something was going on for sure!!  When mom came home from work that day she seemed so excited, like I've never seen her before.  I mean, she didn't even change her clothes before taking me out, and it was pretty cold for a human.   She just put on my collar, grabbed hold, and walked me out into the back yard, but it was different.  We had to go through a gate, and then mom just let go.  What, no leash, no rope, mom really can I go??  Go Sabre, she yelled out, Run!!  Oh my goodness, I was free.  I didn't know where to explore first, so I just let my nose lead the way.  Mom was playing with me like never before since she didn't have her hands full.  After awhile, I noticed my friends Beau and Scout walking towards us through the yard.  They've never come to my house before, what is this??  Yup that's right, my first playdate in my very own yard.  When they came up to the fence I tried to stand up.  Boy that stranger must have been impressed with my strength and agility because he built that fence HIGH!!  So Beau and Scout and their dad all came in to play.  There wasn't enough slobber in the world to express the joy of getting to finally host a playdate with my best buds.   Flying licks for everyone.  Even Beau and Scout's mom came over soon after.  What a day!!  I have this really cool bamboo hideout and lots of obstacles to leap over.  I don't think Beau has quite peed on everything yet but he's working on it!!  That's alright, the more for me to smell when I'm feeling bored.

More later...]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>my mom</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/545077</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 2 Jan 2009 04:12:02 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/545077</guid>
		<description>For some reason mom and sister have not been leaving me in the morning like they usually do.  I cann ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ For some reason mom and sister have not been leaving me in the morning like they usually do.  I cannot believe my luck!  I have been riding all over the place in mom's car, taking lots of runs, and since we came back from Grandma's I've played with Beau and Scout 3 times, I think.  I even saw them on my walk yesterday afternoon.  I had already played with them in the morning so I figured that mom wasn't going to let me play again.  She let me cross the road and sniff them, but then it was back to business.  And I have to say, I behaved quite nicely.  Mom likes it when we run.  She says it will keep her in shape this winter, whatever that means.  On the way back up the road there was this big animal standing at a fence staring us down. It was even taller than mom.  I wasn't going to let that beast get us, so I did what any guard dog would do, I stared back.  Mom told me that the horse was not going to hurt us and she proceeded to drag me away by the collar.  What, mom, I'm just trying to protect you, let me at 'im.  As we were running away from the scene I picked up Beau and Scout's scent and we were off.  I didn't have too much of a fit walking past their house either.  Mom was proud and she gave me some treats.  I hope she gets to stay home during the day all the time now.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Naughty or Nice Continued...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/544318</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 31 Dec 2008 10:02:42 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/544318</guid>
		<description>Well, mom did always say I was pretty smart, which is why I waited until after Christmas to pull thi ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well, mom did always say I was pretty smart, which is why I waited until after Christmas to pull this stunt!!  I think I nearly gave Grandma and Grandpa heart attacks.  No, seriously.  Mom and sister went away for the day, day after christmas visiting they said.  Surely I would be fine staying at Grandma's house for the day.  The snow was beginning to melt which was a disappointment, but Grandma did take me out to go potty and I behaved very nicely, no pulling or any funny business.  Later on, Grandma decided to be nice and put me on the tie out for some play time.  Grandpa hooked me up and Grandma and I were playing ball.  She was so impressed with my digging skills.  Eventually I came to realize that for some reason I was not hooked up to the tie out.  Imagine my surprise.  I jumped at the chance for freedom, not realizing the great panic it would cause.  I began to explore the neighborhood, even tried to sneak into a few houses here and there.  Grandma and Grandpa were hot on my trail.  I would let them get just close enough to grab my collar and then I was off again.  They were freaking out, calling my name, trudging through what was left of the lovely snow.  Finally some lady let her dogs out and the chase came to a screeching halt.  There's no way I could pass up a chance to play with other dogs.  One of the dogs was afraid of me but I wouldn't give up.  I even tried to follow it into its house.  Grandma and Grandpa were extremely relieved to have some help in the capture.  I let a strange guy grab my collar too.  That's not usually something I allow.  My newly found freedom had been replaced with overwhelming guilt about worrying Grandma so much.  She said that if she lost me, mom would just be heart broken.  That is true.    So, I pranced on home as Grandma and Grandpa limped, huffed, puffed, and fumed.  

When mom returned from her day of visiting, Grandpa told the story of my great escape as I innocently lay on the living room floor.  How would mom react, I pondered.  She was mad yet grateful that I made it home ok, but mostly she was so happy that Grandpa and Grandma did not suffer real heart attacks.  And Grandpa added that I really need to work on my recall! ha ha ha!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Naughty or Nice</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/542749</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 27 Dec 2008 04:43:41 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/542749</guid>
		<description>I tell you, I must have been on the good list as of Wed. (christmas eve day) because mom took me on  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I tell you, I must have been on the good list as of Wed. (christmas eve day) because mom took me on 2, yes count 'em, 2 playdates.  Well the first one was kind of  a dud, but I managed to have fun anyway.  I met this really cute chocolate colored dog named Harley.  I think I just sent her swooning with my boyish charms because I'd start running and I thought she was coming with me, then SPLAT, she was laying belly down in the snow.  She refused to move.  I pulled out every trick in the book to try to get her to play with me, although I didn't quite go Wookie on her.  I save that for when I know them better, like Scout or my cousin Harlee.  It was still fun, Harley's dad and mom played with me more than she did but that's ok with me.  Then they took us in the house and I had to stay on my leash.  The nerve... Harley's dad said no playing in the house.  I've never heard such a thing.  Well I managed to behave myself.  I even let Harley's dad take me out to go potty--usually I'm very bad about other people holding my leash!  He held my leash so mom could drink her hot cocoa.  I guess I figured I owed her for being so nice to take me out to play in the snow with my new friend Harley, and her mom and dad are pretty cool too.   I'm sure we'll visit them again.  I know Harley was a little fearful after having been bitten by another dog.  Once she realizes I only want to play, I know she'll be fine.

Later in the day I got to see my cousin Harlee.  Ugh, so many Harlees, how's a guy to keep 'em straight!  We had a blast romping through the snow.  I even got to try my chicken leg trick on her.  She loved it.  This one time I plopped right down on top of her belly, she was biting my tail, but I didn't stop her because I was biting her chicken leg!  Then this one time I had to pee and the crazy girl stuck her head right in for a sniff.  I was afraid I'd get pee on her head, but thankfully I did not.  We continued to play until I bit my tongue, geez I am always biting my tongue.  Blood was getting all over my cuz so we put a stop to the playdate.  It was about time to go anyways.  So we loaded up the car and made our way back to Grandma's.  I was pretty tired for the rest of the night.  I even sent myself to bed without going potty.    I knew I had to be in bed for Santa to come.  Mom was not happy when I licked her awake to take me out to go potty at 4:30 Christmas morning, that's for sure.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Let it snow...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/541259</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 23 Dec 2008 05:41:46 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/541259</guid>
		<description>When mom asked if I wanted to go for a ride in her car Saturday morning I had no idea what I was in  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ When mom asked if I wanted to go for a ride in her car Saturday morning I had no idea what I was in for. The day started off like any other weekend, although I found it to be a little strange that we went to play with Beau and Scout so early.  I realized later it was all a ploy to get me tired out for the looonnnggg drive up to NY to see Grandma and Grandpa.   

So anyways, I had my usual playdate and said my goodbyes to my best pals.  I was kind of sad that I wouldn't see them for Christmas but little did I know what awaited me in NY.  I was all excited to go for a ride in mom's car but I would soon realize that this was not just a quick trip down to Petsmart.  We were in the car for not too long when mom let me out to go potty, see, that's what happens after a playdate.  I drink sooooo much water that I have to go alot, about an hour later.  We were back on the road again.  The next thing I knew I was walking out on this strange white stuff.  It was cold but my feet were not sinking.  I could tell mom was in a hurry, she said something about my sister being hungry for lunch and that I needed to find a spot.  I was trying to find a patch of grass, dirt, anything.  But I found none.  Mom said, too bad, you lose,  and she put me back in the car, then she and my sister walked into this building with a giant yellow M on the sign.

They came back out with some bags in their hands.  Why, food for me, oh I thought you'd never ask.  Mom said nope Sabre, you need to try and go potty again, so out onto the white stuff we went.  I still refused to go.  I don't know what it was, I just couldn't do it.  Mom said oh well, we're not stopping again.  So a few hours later it was dark and mom took mercy on my poor soul.  She stopped one last time once we finally reached the great state of NY.  But again, the white stuff, and this time my feet were sinking with every step.  Oh well, I couldn't hold it any longer.  I did my quick business and then we were back in the car yet again.  Finally a while later mom said, wanna go see grandpa and grandma.  I was getting so excited, I could hardly wait for mom to stop the car and let me out.  I ran right up to their door, although there was an obstacle course of even more white stuff.

I finally settled in to what would be my home away from home for a week.  I said my hellos, got some grandpa love, and mom said time to go out and go potty.  She took me to grandma's back yard where I usually go and sure enough the white stuff that mom calls "snow" was up to my arm pits.  I was trudging along, but it was kind of cool.  I dug my snout in a couple of times to check it out.  Mom says I looked like a deer prancing and bouncing around.  This snow stuff is pretty fun, but I had a job to do and it wasn't going to be easy.  How was I going to pee in snow this high.  I could tell mom was growing impatient so I finally found a spot and let loose.

Well it's been a blast ever since.  I have been trying to get mom to take me out to play as much as possible.  I pretend I need to go to the bathroom but she knows better.  She doesn't mind, well, except for yesterday when she said the wind chill was zero or below.  I hope she will take me out on a walk today and I know she has 2 playdates planned for me.

I have to tell you Beau, I really wish you could be here with me.  We'd have such a great time, a manly time of course ( had to throw that in there for your person Mark or he'd accuse us of being wussy boys.) This snow stuff is the best.  I'll try and bring some back for you, k?  I hope Santa Paws brings you a couple of goodies too!  Say hi to Scout and your people for me.  We'll have to get lots of playing in when I get back.

Sabre]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>home alone</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/539362</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 17 Dec 2008 15:17:28 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/539362</guid>
		<description>So, I had to stay home alone ALL day for 3 days straight and I was not happy about it.  I know usual ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ So, I had to stay home alone ALL day for 3 days straight and I was not happy about it.  I know usually dad sleeps for much of the morning anyways after mom goes to work but at least I know he's home.  This week all of my people left at the same time for the firs time ever.  I tried to get them to take me with them.  I ran to the door looking all cute and excited with my curly tail just a waggin' and it was nothin' doin'!!  Oh yes, they tried to comfort me with a new chewy bone and some treats stuffed in a toy.  How long did they think THAT would last?  I mean, I'm no Einstein, but I consider myself fairly intelligent!  Whatever.  It's over now, back to the normal routine.  At least mom took me on our typical run yesterday and today when she first got home.  She likes it when we run, she says it will keep her in shape for soccer.  Today we even caught up with Beau and Scout and we walked farther down the road than ever!  Oh I just thought for sure we would stop and play at their house, but what? Mom, please, No, c'mon.  I was jumping mad, literally.  I kept trying to get mom to go across the street with me and up their driveway but she said no.  It's a good thing mom used the chain leash today or I would have engaged her in the tug of war match of a lifetime.  Mom's pretty smart too, I guess.  It wasn't very nice to tease me but if I had my choice, a walk with my pals is better than nothing.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>some news</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/537370</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 11 Dec 2008 15:41:12 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/537370</guid>
		<description>I just wanted to inform Beau and Scout's dad that I...um...I lifted my leg for the first time on Tue ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I just wanted to inform Beau and Scout's dad that I...um...I lifted my leg for the first time on Tuesday.  I'm not sure what inspired me to do so, but it felt pretty manly.  Sorry everyone, inside joke!!  Just thought you should know.  Hasn't happened since, but hey, a guy's gotta start somewhere, right?]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Another day of...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/536692</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 9 Dec 2008 15:37:52 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/536692</guid>
		<description>mom getting home near dark, so of course, NO WALK, again!!  I miss my friends and I need to get out  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ mom getting home near dark, so of course, NO WALK, again!!  I miss my friends and I need to get out of this yard.  Mom keeps yelling at me for eating animal poo.  She will not let me get away with anything.  I try to hide it in my closed mouth but she has got my guilty look down pat!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>A pretty uneventful weekend...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/536289</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 8 Dec 2008 14:59:28 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/536289</guid>
		<description>with one bright spot.  Yup, that's what it was.  Mom was resting on the couch most of the day Saturd ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ with one bright spot.  Yup, that's what it was.  Mom was resting on the couch most of the day Saturday.  Whenever she got up to go to the bathroom I would follow her as usual.  Then I heard this awful noise coming from within.  I tried to tell her that eating a bunch of grass usually works when I have an upset tummy, but she just wasn't up for it.  Daddy took me out on that yellow rope thing to let me run around once in the morning.  Later on mom made a phone call and usually when she's on the phone on the weekend, it's to set up my playdate.  So, when she said, wanna ride in mommy's car, I was a little confused, but excited still as always.  See I love going for rides with mommy because usually we go someplace fun.  Anyways, on this day she actually drove me to the playdate with Beau and Scout!  I think it's because she was sick and too weak to walk.  That mom of mine, always thinking about me!  She knew I needed my exercise whether she was sick or not.  I wasn't sure about where we were going until we pulled into their driveway, then I saw Beau and Scout running at the fence.  They didn't realize it was me at first since I was in a strange blue box.  I was so hiped up when I got out of the car that I got me leash all tangled with the car and around my big 'ol head.  Mark had to help out a bit.  It was so cool, it even started to snow while we were playing.  It was a little weird because mom had to sit down sometimes while we played.  When she drove me home it was back to being bored again in the house while she just slept!!

On Sunday, mom decided to try and take me out on the long rope because she was still not feeling well enough to walk or run with me.  I told her it was not a good idea.  We got out there  and that stinkin black cat that keeps leaving poop in the yard for me to eat (which always gets me in trouble by the way), she was up in the evergreen tree.  I just knew it.  I was stalking around the tree a little bit but then I decided to play ball with mommy.  Daddy says she should have taken me in as soon as she saw that cat but she's stubborn and wanted to let me exercise.

You won't believe what happened next...that cat climbed down out of the tree and started running away, probably just to tease me.  So what did I do?  Well, I TRIED to chase it.  All of a sudden I felt this tug and jerk and I was stopped cold.  After a little bit, I turned around and mommy was laying face first on the ground.  That's strange, was she sleeping.  I ran back to check on her, get up mommy, get up!!  When she got up she hurried us into the house and then she collapsed on the floor.  That was REALLY strange!!!  I think she's ok now, although she claims to be sore from hitting the ground so hard.  Well let's look on the bright side mom, you hung onto me so I wouldn't chase that cat into the road and get hit by a car.   Do you think this will inspire daddy to get that fence mom's been asking for?  Probably not since mom completely takes the blame for knocking herself out.  She really should have just let go of the rope.  I think maybe in her weakened condition she wasn't thinking straight.  So that's the story!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Well, It's Official...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/534355</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 2 Dec 2008 16:25:03 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/534355</guid>
		<description>I am now a 1 year old pup!!  And how did I spend my birthday??  6 and 1/2 hours crammed in a car wit ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I am now a 1 year old pup!!  And how did I spend my birthday??  6 and 1/2 hours crammed in a car with my sister!!!  At least when I got home we went almost directly over to see my pals, Beau and Scout.  Boy did I miss them!!

We went up to NY for Thanksgiving to stay at Grandma and Grandpa's house.  That was pretty cool.  Got to play in my first "real" snow, although it didn't last too long.  Maybe I'll see more when we go for Christmas, mom says.  I sure do hope so!!  We went on lots of walks around the town where mom grew up.

I met my 2 cousins while in NY.  Harlee was fun to pal around with.  All of the snow had melted at her house so our playdate quickly digressed to a mud wrestling match.  Harlee's dad stepped in to put a stop to that and got us with a hose.  Well, he sprayed Harlee first.  Then he tried to grab my collar to which I protested.  Mom said she'd better do it.  She knows how I don't like other people touching my collar and leash!  I thought for sure our playdate had come to an end but then we went in the house.  Wow!  I get to play some more with my best new cousin!!  We had a blast!! 

Next, I met my other cousin, Kada.  THAT did not go so well.  She was a little bit nutso, kind of a bully.  It was not as much fun playing with her.  We'd be fine, running, playing, and then all of a sudden she'd change into this maniac.  There was nothing else I could do but fight back.  I think it scared mom a little.  I went to my other Grandma's house and luckily she put the double wide dogs outside so I could relax while mom and dad satisfied their Buffalo pizza fix.  I thought my other grandpa was a little questionable so I had to keep my eye on his every move.  In the end we had to leave because I would not stop barking at him.  I don't know, there was just something about him.  So it was back to Grandma's house for one last night.

Can't wait to go back, but I am sure glad to be here in VA.  I wish we'd get snow though.  AND I went on a run with mom today and was totally hoping to see Beau and Scout.  I kept looking over my shoulder for them to appear, but nothing.  I think mom kept me running to try to get my mind off it, but it was no use.  I expect to see them on every walk now and when I don't, I get really annoyed!  I check their driveway, the woods, and their shortcut path just to be sure.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I've been bored out of my mind...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/529033</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 17 Nov 2008 16:22:06 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/529033</guid>
		<description>since I cut my paw pad last Wednesday!!!!  Mom says we're lucky that the vet did not want to see me  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ since I cut my paw pad last Wednesday!!!!  Mom says we're lucky that the vet did not want to see me cause they'd have to knock me out just to examine my paw!!  I was playing with my best buds after a walk and I was the middle of a BeauScoutSabre sandwich when I slipped.  I let out a yelp and went down hard.  Mom thought I hurt my hip, but then when we finally got home she noticed bloody pawprints all over the kitchen floor.

So, since that day I have been a hostage in my own home and the worst is that in order to go out to go to the bathroom, mom and dad tape this embarrassing plastic baggie over my paw.  Oh thank goodness Beau and Scout can't see me like this.  I do get to eat these little green things that mom dips in peanut butter.  Mom says it's something to help my cut heal.  How I long to go for a walk and play just like old times!!  Mom keeps saying soon, Sabre, soon.  She does her best to play with me inside but it's just not the same.  I mean, how many times can I play fetch with that stupid hedgie toy in this dinky living room??????]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I hit the jackpot...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/525160</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 8 Nov 2008 04:55:24 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/525160</guid>
		<description>Hey Beau, Hey Scout...I looked all over for you yesterday on my walk.  I looked up your driveway--no ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hey Beau, Hey Scout...I looked all over for you yesterday on my walk.  I looked up your driveway--nothing, by the dead deer--nothing, went down the hill thinking I'd see you--nothing.  Finally we were approaching the churchyard and I thought this must be where you are hiding.  I tried to get mom to take me through the gate--they must be at the creek, mom!  She said, nope not today buddy.  So, we just walked back home.  I did stop at your driveway and wait for you one last time.  Wait mom, I know I hear them, I just know it.  No luck.  Mom was in a hurry to get home so she could go to her game and leave me all alone in the boring house.  Alright, I know I was kind of a pain on the walk but c'mon, I've never really walked on a leash WITH other dogs before.  I did my best, really I did!

That doesn't sound like the jackpot does it?  Well I'll give a little background for those who are not in the "know."  So, early in the week mom came home from work pretty early.  She got me ready for my walk, ugh, I still resist the new collar but mom is very persistent.  This time it was different because Grandma came with us.  I wasn't so sure about that. On our walk I kept looking back to make sure she was ok, I AM a guard dog you know, and apparently too fast for her.  Well wouldn't you know it, this one time I look back to check on Grandma and there were Beau and Scout following along behind us.  It was all over.  Mom said we might as well turn around and go to greet them because there was no way I could concentrate on walking after seeing them.   We walked up for our usual sniffing and I tried to get in a slobber or two.  I was ready to play.  But mom was ready to drag me out of there, kicking and screaming.  Nope, I didn't go without a fight.  In fact I had a huge fit all the way home.  They tell mom I'm a teenager now in dog years so why not go for it!!

Anyways, 2 days later mom took me for a walk again.  Things were back to normal.  Grandma and Grandpa were on their way back to NY.  It was just me and mom.  I didn't realize it at the time but she had a plan.  We carried on with our walk, of course I had to stop at the end of Beau and Scout's driveway as usual, you know, just to check and see if they might want to play.  We went all the way to the church and turned around.  On the way up the hill, there they were again, coming right toward us.  I was hoping mom would let us play longer but she's always worried about something.  Don't get tangled in the leashes!  Stay out of the road!  Car coming!  Whatever mom.  Today was completely different, for some reason after I sniffed, slobbered, and tried to play a little, mom and I  turned around and walked WITH them.  Oh my gosh, mom really, are you serious?  I can walk with Beau and Scout!  You're the best mom ever!  We walked, I slobbered (a little) but I was really starting to get the hang of it.  At first I was still trying to get Beau and Scout to play with me.  I was really bothering Beau, I could tell.  He was like, boy you gotta step off, I'm trying to have my walk here.  I don't think Scout was too happy about me disrupting her walk either.  She was whining a bit, going all princess and how dare you.  So finally I just realized it was a no go and gave in to the "power of the pack."  Ha Ha Ha, doesn't some Cesar Milan guy say something like that. (Yeah, I watch the show, I know, a little wussy of me.  Sometimes it's good to see some dogs who behave much worse than I do) Anyhow, we even went into the church yard and explored by a creek!  I put all 4 feet in, I figured if they can do it, it must be ok.  Oh, and that icky dead deer, I don't know how the 2 of you do it.  Mom says she sure is glad that I have no desire to investigate that stinky road kill!!

The best thing ever was that mom let me stay at Beau and Scout's house to play after the walk.  I must have done something right!! I'm just waiting for the chance to try the pack walk thing again.  I hope they will give me another shot.  I can probably do even better next time, hey I'm learning.  

So here I am, back in the present.  Usually mom takes me to the track today but she hasn't yet.  I think it's wet out but I can kind of see some sun through the curtain so maybe I'll get off this computer and start my day!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Well, it seemed like a good idea...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/521683</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:52:23 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/521683</guid>
		<description>at the time.  Daddy and Sister both left out some plastic bottles in the kitchen.  They really shoul ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ at the time.  Daddy and Sister both left out some plastic bottles in the kitchen.  They really should know better by now that I'm a thief and I like to chew anything that I'm not supposed to have.   First I got my sister's bottle--she uses it to make some kind of special toast in the morning.  That sweet, cinnamony  stuff tasted really good.  Later Daddy left me all alone to go to work.  I had no idea how long it would be until mommy came home for the day so I decided I'd make some mischief.  Daddy never leaves his bottles downstairs so I guess I needed to teach him a lesson!  Once I got the top chewed off, these little red things spilled out onto my bed.  I was more interested in chewing on this pouch which I now know says "do not eat" right on it.  Mom told me so.  I heard mom pull up in her car and I always greet her with something in my mouth so I figured, why not?  I grabbed the pouch quickly and met her at the door.  Little did I know the sight of those red things and the chewed up bottle would send mom into a tizzy.  She was in a PANIC!!  She made a couple phone calls then she said something about me having lots of energy because of all of the sugar I had eaten, so she took me for a walk.  When we got back, more phone calls and eventually she said, get in the car, we're going for a ride.  I didn't like the new doggy hospital.  It was just not the same.  I was barking, mom said more than I've ever barked, because as you know, I'm a fairly quiet dog.  I think I was scaring people because they stuck us in the teeny room.  I was just getting settled in and comfy when some lady came in and I started barking again.  I just did not like that place, besides it WAS past my bedtime.  Now mom has to give me some medicine to protect my stomach "just in case."  If she'd just ask me, I'd tell her that I didn't eat any of those little red things!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>mom's plan</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/519392</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 23 Oct 2008 15:40:44 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/519392</guid>
		<description>So, I've got it all figured out.  Mom's definitely been trying to avoid Beau and Scout on our walks. ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ So, I've got it all figured out.  Mom's definitely been trying to avoid Beau and Scout on our walks.  She carefully tries to remember which way we saw them last and then she takes me a different way.  She knows that if we go the same way, I will be hot on their trail with my super sniffing snout!  Problem is, she doesn't always guess right.  ha ha ha!!  Well yesterday I tried to trick mom into going up their driveway.  I made a hard left turn but she yanked me back before I could drag her even a few steps.  Finally we got back to our yard after running part of the way home.  Just before turning into my yard, I thought I spotted Beau off in the distance, nope, couldn't be, mom has it all figured out right??  So we inch closer to the house and I hear mom chuckle, that's when I knew something was up.  There had to be a reason she was hurrying me inside because I thought we were going to stay out and practice my jumps.  Then I heard it...it was Beau's Dad's voice.  Beau, Scout, where are you???!!!  Come see my yard guys!  Then there was no sign of them.  oh, he thinks I didn't know but I'm pretty sure that he made them hide on me behind the big evergreen tree.  Nice try!!  This akita's too smart for you, I just decided I'd get more treats if I listened to mom and went along with it.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>new book</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/517398</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:03:31 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/517398</guid>
		<description>Mom just brought home this hilarious new book, &quot;Dear Mrs. LaRue: Letters from Obedience School.&quot;  He ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom just brought home this hilarious new book, "Dear Mrs. LaRue: Letters from Obedience School."  Here is an excerpt for you to enjoy:

I quote, "Dear Mrs. LaRue,
                   By the time you read this I will be gone.  I have decided to attempt a daring escape!  I'm sorry it has come to this, since I am really a very good dog, but frankly you left me no choice.   How sad it is not to be appreciated!  From now on I'll wander from town to town without a home---or even any dog food, most likely.  Such is the life of a desperate outlaw.  I will try to write to you from time to time as I carry on with my life of hardship and danger.


Your Lonely fugitive,
Ike "

End quote.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The torture is over</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/517125</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 16 Oct 2008 19:04:55 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/517125</guid>
		<description>FINALLY!!!  The last of those stupid obedience classes was tonight.  It was competition time!  I kne ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ FINALLY!!!  The last of those stupid obedience classes was tonight.  It was competition time!  I knew I had to redeem myself after last time but it's just sooooo hard to be there with all of those dogs.  C'mon guys, wanna play??  Nope got work to do!  Apparently I'm the bad boy of the class  and mom gets upset when the trainer makes negative comments about me.  Don't you know I'm the youngest one here?  It makes her feel really bad, so I tried my best to behave.  I did 2 awesome paw shakes and this lady didn't give me full credit, what's up with that?!!!  I didn't do so hot on my walk and sit and completely bombed the down.  Mom was not too thrilled when the trainer told her she could use the chain leash AFTER I had already failed this part miserably and had bitten the leash.  I'm sure I could have done it without the temptation of a little game of tug!  

Well mom took me out for a potty break and changed to the chain leash which made a HUGE difference.  My last 4 stations were perfect and near perfect.  They tried to get me to look at this dish of food but I just walked right past.  Mom didn't even need to say "off."  I did the best stay of my life and my recall was tops.  I even sat while a trainer walked up to me and walked away.  Now, that's temptation.

At the end they called us over for awards.  I knew it wouldn't be good.  Guess what, everyone earned enough points to "qualify," even me.  Well woopdy--do!!  They kept announcing names from the top score down.  A little brown noser got perfect score--goody two shoes!  Of course, mom and I stood there and waited and waited and waited--finally in dead last, Sabre, the dog we only passed because we had to and with any luck he won't come back.  I bet if the one lady could have fudged the scores to make me not "qualify" she would have.  Awww, no bitterness here, nope, none!

Mom let me "meet" a nice dog named Bailey outside after class too.  I guess that was my reward for "qualifying."  Much better reward than food!

Anyhow, it's over, it's hockey season, and there are more adventures to be had by this pup.    Obedience class, who needs it?!!  I'll do my training out in the real world!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Does it really have to end??</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/516204</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 14 Oct 2008 16:14:16 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/516204</guid>
		<description>I forgot to mention before, but Beau and Scout's mom came over to  my house on Saturday.  At first I ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I forgot to mention before, but Beau and Scout's mom came over to  my house on Saturday.  At first I did not recognize her without my 2 pals in tow.  She brought over some toy to play with in the yard.  Mom looks so goofy trying to get me to jump over it.    Today I followed her over just to make her happy.

On Monday mom took me on a long walk on the bike path and through town.  I just loved it!!  We saw one of mom's teacher friends at a place called McDonald's.  I tried to rub up on the lady's son to get some help with this strap thing on my snout but mom said no, no one is going to help you.  Keep on moving!!

Later that day mom, dad, and sister left for awhile, but when they came back mom said, wanna go see Beau and Scout.  Are you crazy??  You don't have to ask twice, mom let's go, what's taking so long?   This playdate was a little bit different because I got to sniff around in Scout and Beau's back yard.  There was this thick, jungle like area.  I thought I'd lost Scout forever.  Beau joined in on the playing more than ever this time.  We also got to go into Beau's house.  How cool is that!!  I even went through a doggie door!!  Hey mom, why can't I have one of those??

Um, did you see the picture mom took of some wacky octopus attacking me??  When good dog toys go bad, right??!!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Busy, busy</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/515661</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 13 Oct 2008 07:31:21 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/515661</guid>
		<description>This has been the best weekend ever!!  Mom has been able to pay soooo much attention to me.  Yesterd ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ This has been the best weekend ever!!  Mom has been able to pay soooo much attention to me.  Yesterday we went on yet another adventure, first to Ball's Bluff again.  This time mom didn't make me listen to all of the details about the battle even though I'm still her cavalry dog.  I just explored.  Sister came too and we went down to the river.  I watched from afar as this silly little white dog trudged around through the muddy riverbank.  Um, not a good idea.  I think I'll keep my pretty white legs clean thank you very much!!

Next stop was the pet store, where mom bought me some new toys.  Sister wanted to look at the ferrets which I completely don't get.  I mean, am I not enough for her?  Why would she want one of those rat looking things when she has me??  I got another super giant hedgie toy to replace the ones that I destroyed.  Might take me a while to break this one in but it'll happen.  The best thing though was that she bought me some rings just like Beau's.  We did some tugging last night.  Maybe I'll be brave enough to play with him on our playdate.  It's fun to chase girls but sometimes us guys need to get all manly with our bad selves!!

So, my pal Beau has been talking up this hot dog lady at a place called "Home Depot."  I didn't quite understand what all the fuss was about...then it happened.  We walked from Petco to the stand and there she was.  She of course told me how handsome I was and I did my best rubbing up on her.  She thought I was being affectionate but I was really just trying to get the strap off of my snout.  No matter!  She opened up this big door and out they came...HOT DOGS!!!  She gave half to me but I wasn't quite sure what to do.  I bet Beau just gobbles it right down.  I must say I was taking teeny nibbles at first--I'm not used to my food being in such big pieces.  Next time I'll know what it's all about.  Thanks hot dog lady!!  See you soon!

And for the grand finale, ice cream.  I guess I deserved it since I have been trying so hard to make it up to mom for all of the poor behavior at class.  I know she understands why I get so frustrated there but she says we cannot quit.  I have been showing her just how good I can behave all weekend.  She knows I'm a good boy.  How can they expect me to be around all of those dogs and not be able to meet them?  It's really not fair at all.  Anyways, only one more class on Thursday.  If I wasn't so distracted I could win that competition hands down!!

More adventures on the way...]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>The best weekend ever...</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/515632</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 13 Oct 2008 05:09:09 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/515632</guid>
		<description>Boy am I glad mom is a teacher.  She gets all kinds of days off to spend with me!!  On Saturday we w ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Boy am I glad mom is a teacher.  She gets all kinds of days off to spend with me!!  On Saturday we went to this place out in the woods and mountains.  Mom said that it was a k9 carnival.  There were loads of dogs and their people.  I got to meet so many new friends.  Of course I couldn't play with them because mom had a good hold of my leash but at least she let me sniff and I could tell she wasn't nervous at all.  Mom and my sister person kept trying to get me to go over these jumps and onto some scary board that went up and down.  I decided to take the easy way around.  I did like going through the tunnel to my sister on the other end.  Then,  mom made me pose for a picture, ugh.  I know I'm a pretty boy but don't you have enough pictures of me already.  While we were waiting these ginormous furballs were barking like they were standing guard or something.  I didn't like that.  Hey guys we just met a few minutes ago, uh, remember me, the handsome akita that sniffed you??  

So the big puff balls are gone now and it's our turn for a picture.  Some dude wanted to take my leash from mom but I was NOT having any of that!!  I was really more interested in playing with these plant looking things and orange round balls that were set up but mom said no.  Then the guy squeezed this toy and tricked me into looking at him so I gave him my best handsome face.  Oh well.  Mom seems really happy about the picture.  Later on mom gave me an ice cream treat but I was just too excited to eat it.  Some other dog came and swiped it and mom just let it happen.  She said I wasn't eating it anyways.  Whatever!!

Do you believe it?  Mom made me get my picture taken a second time!!!  She said she wanted one with just me.  I must say, I do look quite dapper.  Well, the event was over so we left.

Playdate later, woo hoo.  Mom said wanna go see Beau and Scout and well, I just about dragged her down the street.  I could not get there fast enough!  I did have to stop and pee in the neighbors' yard but then we were off again.  Mom thinks I didn't notice that they were all looking at deer at the end of Beau and Scout's driveway but can't fool me.  I was just too anxious to get over there and do some playing.  Beau's dad wasn't home at first so he was a little rowdy with his barking and having to protect his mom.  From me?  Are you nuts?  I'm practically part of the family now!!  He calmed down and we played a bit, but then it happened.  I heard this crackling noise...hey Beau, Scout, where you runnin' to??  Oh, Dad's home, really?  Can I come see too?  I'm not one to miss out on some attention so I went over for the greeting as well.  Then we were off again!  Scout thought she'd try to hide from me in a bush.  Does she really think I don't know her game?  I know I'm just a young fellow, but I didn't just fall off the turnip wagon.  I dove right in after her!!  Uh can you help me out here!  I think I'm stuuuuuuccckkkk!

Anyhow, it was getting really dark so we had to hustle home.  Silly mom was wearing all grey clothing, duh!!

Ooh, and I forgot to mention my old trainer came back to see me in the morning.  Boy was that a treat.  I did miss her and her bag of goodies!!  She gave mom yet another new collar to try.  We'll see if I allow mom to use it!!

More about my Sunday adventures later because, woohoo, some Columbus guy told mom she didn't have to work today, uh, or something like that.  Anyways, mom's taking me somewhere for the 3rd day in a row and I have another playdate later...hot dog!!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>today</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/514820</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 11 Oct 2008 05:52:39 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/514820</guid>
		<description>Oops! I forgot.  I was riding in the car on the way back from the track this morning, just minding m ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Oops! I forgot.  I was riding in the car on the way back from the track this morning, just minding my business when who should I see?? My best pals Beau and Scout out for a walk with their mom!!!!!!!  I looked longingly out the back window, "Hey guys, wanna plaaaaaaaaaaay!" I could see them trying to run and catch up but it was no use.  Mom's car is too fast.  I kept looking for them.  I even tried to find them when I got home and out of the car but mom said no, gotta go in and eat some breakfast!!!!

She said maybe you'll get to play later...]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My poor mom</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/514817</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 11 Oct 2008 05:45:36 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/514817</guid>
		<description>So I have this training class on Thursdays.  My mom knows I hate this thing she puts on my snout to  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ So I have this training class on Thursdays.  My mom knows I hate this thing she puts on my snout to try and "control" me but she keeps doing it because the trainers think it's best.  I was extra extra unruly this time, hoping she'd get the message.  I was soooooooo bad; I was biting all over her arms and jumping.  She even tried to go back to just that black strappy thing that goes around my chest but I just wouldn't let up.  She had to take me out of the class to take a break.  I guess she really needed the time out because she started crying.  Yup, I made mom cry.  I think I'm making her feel like an outcast at this class.  I kind of feel bad for her because she's trying so hard.  I'm not sure why I do it.  The other side of the big building looks so much cooler.  The dogs over there get to run and jump and climb, and their people make all kinds of crazy noises to get their dogs to what they want.  I wanna be over there, not in some silly class.  I can do all of those tricks like sit, stay, down,  I just don't want to.  I'm an adventure dog, I'm the cavalry dog for heaven sake!!! Let me go on the other side of the barrier and I'll show what I can do.

The next day for our walk/run mom used the black strappy thing, "thank goodness."  There's hope for her after all.  I was on my best behavior, just like last weekend for our battlefield tour. ( See, I've never really given her a problem out in public until she started using that thing on my snout.) I even let her have a conversation with another person and let that person pet me without jumping.    The person commented on my good walking behavior.  I think that made mom feel proud.  I'm pretty sure mom knows I'm not the bad dog that those training people make her feel like I am.  They want her to take me to some kind of "behaviorist" but I just want to work with my old trainer, who is coming over today, by the way.

Last night during the hockey game, mom put something in the microwave and then walked out of the room.  All of a sudden there was this popping noise.  It made me a little bit nervous.  When she came back she pulled out this steaming bag.  She kept shaking the bag to which my response was to freak out and run all over the house.  Finally I calmed down and realized there was some sort of strange food in the bag.  Mom gave me a piece, I think to show me that I had nothing to fear.  Yum, not bad!!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>yesterday and today</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/513174</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 6 Oct 2008 14:51:12 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/513174</guid>
		<description>Mom used some crazy tool to make a big pile of crunchy leaves.  At first I didn't know what she want ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom used some crazy tool to make a big pile of crunchy leaves.  At first I didn't know what she wanted me to do but I decided to take a couple sniffs. Looks like fall might be pretty fun.

Yesterday I finally got to go on my weekly play date at Beau and Scout's.  I am really feeling comfortable with them now, and their people too!!  I want to play tug with Beau and his rings but he's pretty tough so I usually just chase Scout.  She seems to enjoy it when I slobber all over her.  I think that means she's my girlfriend!!  Sometimes she does play hard to get though.  She stays by her people but I just don't give up easily.   I was working my best Jedi mind tricks and even called on my inner Wookie to try and get her to play with me, but I don't think she was feeling like herself.  Well at least I didn't leave with my ears full of bugs this time, although on the long walk home, mom kept saying something like, let's get goin' boy, these bugs are killin' me!!

Today on our walk, just as we were nearing Beau's driveway I thought I'd make my move and get mom to take me over there again.  Then I noticed Beau and Scout up ahead.  I wanted to call out to them, Hey let's play, but their person thought he was being sneaky and walked a different direction.  Did he think he could fool me??  Mom and I picked up the pace but then we all went our separate ways.  We turned around early because mom "thought" she saw a snake in the road.  Then we were running and there was this big, round, scary black thing just left on the side of the road.  I jumped back and almost knocked mom over.  How was I to know it was a harmless tire!!  We ran some more and then went home.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Adventure Saturday</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/512746</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 5 Oct 2008 11:47:06 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/512746</guid>
		<description>So, mom did decide to take me on an adventure after all because my play date was postponed.  We went ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ So, mom did decide to take me on an adventure after all because my play date was postponed.  We went to Ball's Bluff Battlefield Park for a tour.  Mom is training to be a volunteer tour guide there so I let her listen to the talk for the most part.  It was here that I acquired my newest nickname.  The guide that day asked mom my name and when she said Sabre, he thought I was named after the cavalry.  Mom said no, he's a hockey dog, but that does sound pretty cool too.  We can go with that one as well, I'm a cavalry dog now!!!  I wish mom had taken a picture of me peeking over the cemetery wall like all of the people were.  Look mom, I'm so tall!!  After the tour and then listening to mom go on and on about me like she always does, she took me back onto the trails for some exploring time.  I hope mom takes me to more historic sites.  I've already been to Fort Raleigh and now Ball's Bluff.   We'll see...]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Hello</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/512342</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 4 Oct 2008 06:48:41 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Sabre ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/889775/diary/Sabres_story/512342</guid>
		<description>So this is my first entry.  Mommy has been working so hard and daddy broke his ankle so I've had a l ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ So this is my first entry.  Mommy has been working so hard and daddy broke his ankle so I've had a little pent up energy lately.  Today we took our usual trip up to the track.  I only let mommy go 2 laps before I wanted to start exploring.  Uh-oh, I knew mommy let me stay too long when all of these little people started showing up in their big vehicles and they were kicking balls too.  I didn't want to leave, but mommy said it's time.  On the way home I spotted this dog at the church that looked a little like my friend Beau but something was different, so mom pulled the car over and this dog walked right up to my window.  Well, I couldn't wait to get out.  I was whining!!  I got out and met Addy.  Mom actually let me off leash and we ran around a bit.  Addy was very possessive of this stick that her person threw for us.  He threw me a stick too but they just didn't realize--I didn't want the stick, I wanted Addy to pay attention to me!!  I tried to use my best moves to get her to just run and play with me but at first the stick was more important.  Finally, the chase was on.  I went down into this creek behind the church and got all kinds of muddy!!  We had to leave and I said goodbye.  Mom told me not to worry because later I would have my regular play date with Beau and Scout.  When we got home, mom made me get in the tub to clean the mud off.  That wasn't so bad, but I really hate it when she tries to dry me off.  I just wanted to bite the towel and rip it to shreds!!

Oh well, I found out my play date will be on Sunday instead of Saturday.  That's ok as long as we're home in time for the hockey game.  Hopefully mommy will take me on a neat adventure today.  I thought she said she was going to, but then again I could be wrong.  C'mon mom!!  It's the weekend.  Leave that work down and take me some place cool!!

Hockey season is upon us. Go Sabres!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!]]></content:encoded>
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