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<title>A New Beginning</title>
<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning</link>
<description>Dogster diary for the dog Isis</description>
<language>en</language>
<copyright>Copyright 2013 by Isis &amp; Dogster</copyright>
<pubDate>Wed, 19 Jun 2013 20:12:25 PDT</pubDate>
<generator>Dogster Pet-o-matic Gennie - http://www.dogster.com</generator>
<ttl>360</ttl>

	<item>
		<title>I Was Forgotten!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/829532</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 9 Jun 2013 14:59:32 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/829532</guid>
		<description>It was an interesting weekend!! On a positive note Mom and I both ended up winning art work in a fre ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It was an interesting weekend!! On a positive note Mom and I both ended up winning art work in a free give away!! I have some friends on Facebook who have a Facebook page called The Houndies Stall. They sell donated items, many handmade, to help a dog rescue in England. They were trying to reach 250 likes so they were asking people to share. If you shared you were entered into the free giveaway! Mom won the first week and I won this week!!! The art work I won has an Egyptian theme and my name will be written in Hieroglyphics!! Isis, being a Goddess has her very own Hieroglyph! I can't wait to see it. Mom's is beautiful too. It is a greyhound next to a cherry tree in blossom.

Yesterday mom and dad went to a Star Trek Convention in Boston. Mom had always want to go to one. She has been a big fan all her life. Mom didn't pay extra to meet the stars or get autographs but she did see them all. Gates McFadden (Dr. Beverly Crusher) Said hi to mom!!! Mom was grabbing on to daddy as she was so excited. She also saw Micheal Dorn (Worf), Brent Spinner (Data) and George Takei (Sulu), Oh and Marina Sirtis (Deanna Troy, Denise Crosby (Tasha Yar) and Levar Burton (Geordi LaForge) Mom bought a Tribble. It actually squeals and shakes like the real ones.  Mom asked my pet sitter, Sara to take my for my mid day walk. Mom even E-mailed her the day before to remind her. She never came!!! When mom and dad came home, the check was still on the center isle! Mom felt sick to her stomach knowing that I had to hold it for over 12 hours!!! Mom was almost in tears!! She let me out right away! Boy did I have to GO!!! I was OK though. Mom is looking for a new sitter. This lady is a friend of dad's. They used to work together. Mom feels bad about that, but my needs have to come first. This is the second time she has forgotten me.

Today was the Whisker Walk. It is another annual dog fair that we always go to. I had SO much fun!!! We did the walk and saw all the booths. Greyhound Friends had a booth so we visited with them for a while. My friend, Fast was there. I got a lot of cookies and other free goodies too. I met a pitbull who is a real heroine! She saved her owner from being hit by a train. She dragged her unconscious mom to the side of the train tracks and then got hit herself. She lost a leg and had internal injuries! She is OK now though. She led the walk. We only stayed for 2 hours because it was very hot!!! Mom didn't want me to over heat. I was fine with that. We saw every thing. I am tired now. It was a fun day!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Greyhound Friend's Open House</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/827386</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 19 May 2013 05:22:31 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/827386</guid>
		<description>Yesterday was an exciting day! Mom let me out into the yard like usual for me to do my morning busin ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yesterday was an exciting day! Mom let me out into the yard like usual for me to do my morning business. Mom was at the sink when she noticed I was acting strange out in the yard. I usually take a morning run but I usually run large loops around the whole yard. This time I was making tight circles. Mom didn't have her contact lenses in yet so her vision was a bit blurry. She realized that I was chasing something! Mom ran out in her slippers! I was chasing a baby bird! The bird could almost fly. It could skim a few inches above the ground. I was just having fun. The bird was fast and I was playing. Mom caught the bird and brought it inside. It is in a cardboard box right now in mom and dad's bedroom. Mom called a friend who has experience rehabilitating birds. He gave her some suggestions on what to feed it. Today mom and dad are visiting this friend because he has an animal sanctuary and is doing a fund raiser. He will take the bird and care for it until it can fly and live on its own.

After the bird rescue we got into the car and daddy drove us to Greyhound Friends. As we were driving down the road to Greyhound Friends, we noticed a car from Vermont in front of us. They were driving slow so daddy thought they might be going to the kennel too. Sure enough, they turned down the driveway. We later realized that the car from Vermont belonged to Linda Evens! She is the greyhound artist we met in Gettysburg! That was SO cool! We worked the Silent Auction/Raffle table again this year. Daddy set up my exercise pen and mom and dad made a tent with my blanket for shade. Mom got me fresh water and daddy brought in a bunch of comforters which we donated to the shelter. The neighbor was giving them away in a "Free" pile so mom grabbed them all. They are always looking for bedding to be used at the kennel. Mom and dad worked hard to set up the tables. Daddy took me for a walk around the grounds. When he got back, he watched the table and mom and I walked around. We went to the different booths. Mom talked with Grammie from Grammies Jammies and Cindy Maxwell's Mom. (Cindy is a greyhound and we are all friends on Facebook.) After that mom went and talked with Linda Evens and her husband. They both remembered mom and Linda even remembered mom's name! Mom wand I went back to our booth and mom talked daddy into buying another piece of Linda's art. She bought "Moving Mountains" which has 100 hidden greyhounds in it! Mom found about 50!
Soon players from the New England Patriots football team arrived. They were giving autographs in exchange for a donation. Mom took pictures of them but we didn't get an autograph. They did a ceremony at the memorial garden. That is always sad because they read names of dogs that went to the rainbow Bridge recently. They read Troy's name! I still can't believe he is gone. He was such a dear friend. His mom was sad too and was crying. Then they did a parade of adoptable dogs. I hope many find homes this weekend. After that it was time for the dog show. Mom kept track of the events so she would know when to get me ready for the costume contest. When they announced oldest dog, mom got me ready. I was a Hawaiian Hula Dancer! I was up against a dig dressed as Eore and a flower. I won!!! I got a blue ribbon, a squeaky bear toy and a milk bone! By now it was getting late in the day. They announced on the loud speaker that the food vendors had left over sausages and if any dogs wanted a free sausage to come over and get one! I wanted one, so mom went and got one for me. It was yummy!!! I really enjoyed it. They did the raffle drawing- we didn't win anything. That was OK because there were only 2 prizes mom was interested in. We only bought 6 tickets. Mom and dad helped to pack up for the day. We talked with Aunt Carla for a bit and headed home. We stopped off at the pet store and bough a few things. Once we got home, mom and dad went outside to work in the yard. Daddy mowed the grass and mom pruned bushes. It was a greyt day!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I Was In A Research Study!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/826548</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 12 May 2013 11:38:51 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/826548</guid>
		<description>Yesterday we drove to NH to see Grandpa. He is still in the rehab facility. He seemed a lot stronger ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yesterday we drove to NH to see Grandpa. He is still in the rehab facility. He seemed a lot stronger than the last time we visited, but he is still too thin. He plans to go home on Monday, which is tomorrow. We will visit again in a couple of weeks and mom will be calling him often to check in on him. I saw another dog as we pulled up to the rehab facility. It was a doberman. He wasn't very friendly. Other than that we had a quite visit. He went down to the sun room. Another patient and her family came in, but they didn't stay too long. We went to the pet store when we got home and did our weekly shopping. Mom got me a butterfly cookie! I ate it!!
 
I went to Tufts animal hospital this morning. They took blood and urine samples to be used in a study on blood coagulation in greyhounds. My friend, Ninja and his dad, Jeff, came too. Ninja and I were able to get our exams together. That made it nicer. I think mom and dad enjoyed talking to Jeff too. They gave me a pretty red bandage and Ninja got a green one. They gave use lots of treats. It didn't hurt. I hope that they will be able to help other greyhounds from this study. I am honored to have been able to help. After the study we went to Petco. Mom and dad got another litter box to put in the downstairs bathroom. Afterwards mom and dad went into the dollar store. Mom was looking for a costume for me for Greyhound Friend's Open House next week. Guess I am going as a hula dancer!! I will tell you all about it so stay tuned!!

Mom and dad decided I deserved a treat so they took me to the dog park this afternoon. It is the one in Weston, MA. I can go off leash there! There are beautiful wooded trails, streams and large wide open fields! The weather was perfect! Spring is in full bloom. Mom says it is the prettiest spring ever. I think I agree. There were lots of dogs and their people there. I kept mom and dad in sight the whole time. It was a nice treat. When we got home we all went out to the back yard. I helped mom weed the garden. Daddy is weed whacking because the lawn mower charger doesn't work. He hopes to get a new one tomorrow.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Paws In The Park</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/825896</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 6 May 2013 09:29:00 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/825896</guid>
		<description>Mom and dad played a dirty trick on me last week. We got home from Gettysburg Sunday afternoon. On M ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom and dad played a dirty trick on me last week. We got home from Gettysburg Sunday afternoon. On Monday morning they brought me to the vet! I actually don't mind going to my vet too much. They are very nice there and give me treats. I prefer seeing Dr. Caviness but this time I saw Dr. Rogers. She is nice too. It was just my annual exam. They did some blood work to check my immunity. It was high enough so I didn't need any vaccines this year. Dr. Rogers said I was too fat! Can you believe that? I weighed in at 70 pounds. That is exactly what I weighed when I was adopted. Mom says I have to cut back on my cookies and walk more. Other than that, I am healthy.

Yesterday was a fun day. We went to Paws In The Park. It is an annual event held to raise donations for Buddy Dog. We have gone every year since I was adopted. They have food and vendor booths, games, demonstrations and raffles. The weather was perfect and it was a great turn out! We saw most of the booths and then it was time for the group walk. It is only about a mile walk but it is very pretty. All the flowers are coming out and the leaves on the trees are budding too. After the walk we ran into Aunt Carla, Jeff, Gil, Skylar and two of aunt Carla's Iggies. We chatted for a bit and I hung out with Gil and Skylar. By now it was noon so mom and dad went to check to see if there was anything they could eat. A Thai place was there and had some vegan options, so mom and dad had lunch. They started to play some dog games. Daddy tried the dress up contest again. He didn't do very well dressing me. He thinks mom would have done better because she dresses me in costumes a lot. Later they did a dog/human look alike contest. Daddy decided to enter that one with me too. The lady with the microphone saw me and daddy and told daddy to bring me in the ring. She kept telling daddy that she was saving him for last. The crowd cheered for who they thought looked most like their dog. When our turn finally came, mom yelled as loud as she could! (and mom can yell really loud!!!) We won!!! Daddy selected a toy for me. A lady came up to mom and asked her if we belonged to her. She said "yes" The lady said "He really does look like his dog"!! Mom got a kick out of that. Another woman said that daddy and I have the same smile!! Mom told dad and he thought it was funny too. We watched a Frisbee demo with border collies and mom and dad ate kettle corn. After that it was getting too hot. Daddy took me to the swimming pools to cool off a bit. After that I took daddy to the Greyhound Friends booth and laid down on one of the blankets. Fast was there with his mom. I always enjoy hanging out with Fast. We hadn't planned on volunteering that day, but we helped out with the booth anyway. Mom watched some of the other dog games. She was hoping for the longest tail but they didn't do that one this year. We stayed until it was almost closing time. I didn't want to leave. I had so much fun. Mom told me that Whisker Walk will be in June. I will look forward to that!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Home Again!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/825085</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 28 Apr 2013 20:06:56 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/825085</guid>
		<description>Arrived home safe and sound from Gettysburg. We are exhausted but had SO much fun. Our room is alrea ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Arrived home safe and sound from Gettysburg. We are exhausted but had SO much fun. Our room is already booked for next year! The ride home was long and uneventful. There were a few spots of slow traffic but nothing major. A couple of the rest stops had special Canine rest areas! One even had 2 fire hydrants! Being a girl, I don't use fire hydrants but I could tell the boys enjoyed it. I ate a good supper which made mom and dad very happy. I didn't eat much at Gettysburg. There was just too much excitement and socializing to do. I basically ate cookies the whole trip!! I was on vacation after all!!! Grandpa's cat seems to have integrated with Ben and Charlie-FINALLY!!! She is out and about the house. That is a good thing. She is being pretty nice too.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>GIG- Day 3</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/824923</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 27 Apr 2013 14:58:35 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/824923</guid>
		<description>Today at GIG!
Mom got up early because she had signed up for an art class with Linda Evens. She bou ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today at GIG!
Mom got up early because she had signed up for an art class with Linda Evens. She bought a print from Linda yesterday and was very excited about the class. 16 other women took the class too. Mom had fun. She now has a nice piece of art work that she created herself. Daddy and I met mom after her class. We walked around for a bit and visited some of the booths. We were just killing time until the costume contest. It was a great turn out. We counted at least 22 dogs in the contest. We paraded through the arena and went out side to the pavilion for the judging. The judges just went around with clip boards. It wasn't as formal as last year where each dog walked before the judges and was announced. We were towards the back area and the judges didn't really even give us much attention. Unfortunately we didn't win anything this year. There were some really good costumes that didn't win too. Oh well, guess the judges were looking for something else. After the contest mom and dad stopped at the food wagon to get some sweet potato fries. I hung out with them and kept them company. We took a little walk around the pond and explored a bit. After that we went to a lecture called "Why does my hound do that?" It was fun. The next activity was that you could participate in some of the recreation the Allstar center offered. One activity was miniature golf. Daddy bought tickets for mom and dad.They took me to the dog babysitting area. I was fine with that because I like being with other dogs any way. What I didn't like was that they required a muzzle!! Ugh!!! I was a good sport about it and found a blanket to sleep on. Mom and dad had fun playing and they weren't gone too long. We then went to a lecture on Galgos. They are Spanish Greyhounds. They have it rough in Spain. When they can no longer hunt they are discarded or killed. If we adopt a new family member it will be a galgo. We walked around a little more after the lecture and waited for the raffle drawing. No luck in the raffle this year. There were thousands of tickets so the odds weren't in our favor. When we got back to our hotel room we found out that we had to move rooms. Mom noticed that the toilet  wasn't flushing this morning. Daddy called a maintenance man and he said he would fix it. He left us a note saying he couldn't fix it and we had to move all our stuff again!!! I'm tired now and need a nap. Mom and dad are going out to dinner. Tonight we are going to a beach party! I will write about that later.

Just came back from the party!! It was awesome! So many party animals! There were balloons and music. We all wore lei's and had fun socializing! I saw lots of old friends and some new ones too. As soon as we get home, daddy will put them in a photo album for me. We had a really fun time.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>GIG- Day 2</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/824873</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 27 Apr 2013 04:14:52 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/824873</guid>
		<description>Yesterday was such a fabulous day!! We got up, mom and dad showered and got dressed and took me for  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yesterday was such a fabulous day!! We got up, mom and dad showered and got dressed and took me for my walk. Then we had to pack up all of our things! The hotel we were staying at messed up our reservations! When mom and dad first made it our reservations it was way back in January. After that the hotel was bought by new owners. They brought in all new staff and many of the reservations got messed up- including ours. Our hotel is two hotels in one! One side is the Eisenhower which is where we stayed the first two nights and the other side is the Aspire which is where we are now. We had to check out of the Eisenhower and then go and check in at the Aspire.The Aspire said our room wouldn't be ready until noon so daddy put all our things back into the car. After that we walked over to the Allstar for the festivities. First we had to register. It was very organized and much better that last year. Mo and dad got greyhound wristbands to wear. We checked in early so mom and dad took me the the off leash play area. The rule there is that all dogs have to wear muzzles. I don't like wearing muzzles at all but rules are rules. There was only one other dog to play with but I went in with mom and dad. I rubbed on the fence, I rubbed on the ground, but I couldn't get the muzzle off. I really didn't feel much like playing.WE went back inside and sat in the lunch room until the doors opened.A nice man came and told us we could go in. All I can say was WOW!! You should have seen the rows and rows of booths. It was beautiful!! We went to all the booths!! Mom signed up for an art class (that is today) and she met the artist ho will be teaching it. Mom was looking thought her art work and found one with 3 greyhounds running in front of the pyramids!! Mom made a rule with herself that she would look at everything before buying anything. She had worked hard to save up her spending money. After looking at everything mom knew what she would buy. She had always wanted a greyhound statue and found the perfect one. It is heavy!! It is made out of concrete. Mom paid for it and they put a bag over the statue's head with mom's name on it. Next mom and dad did the raffle entries. The winners will be drawn today! Wish us luck!! Next, mom went back to buy the art work and last she bout a really cool papermache/wire greyhound that looks like me!!! Then she bought something special for my Facebook boyfriend, Lucien, who lives in England. Then she was out of money!! BOL 
It was now after noon so we went back to check in to our new room. I didn't want to leave but mom promised we would be back. We checked in and brought our stuff to the new room. WOW!!! It was a much nicer room! It even had a flat screen, high def TV!! We rode back to the Allstar with the car so mom and dad could pick up mom's statue.A nice lady held my leash so mom could help daddy. The statue is sitting in the back seat on the floor behind daddy! It fit perfect. After that we went to some talks. we walked around again and daddy bought my a rack for my leashes and coats. Then we saw one more lecture and the place closed for the day. 

Mom and dad went out for dinner. When they came back we got into the car and drove into town. We went on a special doggie ghost tour! Our tour guide was very good. I listened to all her stories and followed right behind her when we walked along. We didn't see any ghosts but one lady got some orbs on her camera. daddy took pictures too. We will see what comes out when we make the pictures bigger.
More tomorrow!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>GIG 2013 : Day 1</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/824791</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 26 Apr 2013 05:06:59 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/824791</guid>
		<description>GIG Day two: Sorry I didn't write my update yesterday. We were just SO busy!! Mom and dad got up aro ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ GIG Day two: Sorry I didn't write my update yesterday. We were just SO busy!! Mom and dad got up around 7:30. Mom took me out but it was quiet. Most of the dogs hadn't arrived yet. Both mom and dad went to the little gym down the hall and did a workout. It was a nice little gym- did the trick. They had it all to themselves. Mom did upper body and abs. After that we went exploring the grounds.The Allstar expo center is only a short walk from our hotel. They let us inside. We could see volunteers stuffing the goodie bags for today. Next we drove into town. When we arrived on Wednesday, mom had found flyers about a special greyhound ghost walk. Daddy stopped by and got us all tickets for tonight! That will be so much fun!!. After that we drove to the outlet malls to walk around. Some of the stores already had their signs up allowing dogs to go in. I love going into stores. Usually the only stores I am allowed to go into are the pet store, the hardware store and the groomers!!! We shopped for about an hour and then daddy got lunch for him and mom. They got veggie sub sandwiches.  After that we played miniature golf. I helped keep score with daddy. I just couldn't seem to hold the club right,so I decided not to play. I wouldn't want to show up mom and dad anyway! BOL! By now it was a little after 1PM. The downtown shopping had already started. This is where they allow dogs to shop in the downtown Gettysburg area. It was fun. We met some other dogs and their humans. We even started seeing people we know!! The leaders of my Greyhound Adventure's group where there!! I recognized them right away. We stopped and chatted for a while and I made sure to say hello to every single dog. We continued to shop for awhile and I dragged mom and dad into any store that I could!! After that we were a bit tired so we drove back to the hotel for a short nap. After our nap it was back to the Outlet Mall for the official shopping. By now there were lots of dogs around. What Greyt fun!! There were Greyhounds, Whippets, Galgo's, Lurchers and even some little Italian Greyhounds. Mom saw her friend, Tracy, so we caught up with her. I remembered her dog, Gino, right away. Tracy was there with her boyfriend, Kurt, and their new dog Copper. Copper is only 3 and still very much a puppy. He had a lot of energy.Well we all shopped a bit more and then it was time to head for the "After Shopping Welcome Reception" . It was at a winery. We drove all these crazy back roads to get there. They were going to have a food truck and had said there would be vegan food for mom and dad. They were also selling greyhound etched wine glasses. Mom and dad don't drink things with alcohol, so mom just bought the glass. Mom and dad went to the food truck but the only food they could get was a salad and sweet potato fries. By now it was packed full of dogs and humans. There were hundreds of people there.We saw more people and dogs we know. Pat Hall from Greyhound Friend's was there and our friends Judy and Bill came with my friend, Claire. They had a new girl fresh off the track. Her name was Ginger. We stayed for about an hour and then mom and dad took me back to the hotel(They got a little lost going back!! BOL!). Mom gave me dinner. I ate most of it. Then they went out to dinner in town. I'm still tired this morning. Today is going to be another busy one. I may not get a chance to update. I will try my best so be patient!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>GIG 2013- Arrival</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/824617</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 24 Apr 2013 14:36:35 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/824617</guid>
		<description>We have arrived in Gettysburg! It was a long drive. We left our house at 8:30 this morning and arriv ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We have arrived in Gettysburg! It was a long drive. We left our house at 8:30 this morning and arrived at the hotel around 5. We ran into 2 areas of slow traffic. One was construction and one was an accident. We made 3 stops at rest stops to stretch our legs. The hotel is beautiful. we are staying at the Eisenhower for 2 days and then transferring to the Aspire which is the same building but a different area. Our room is very nice! Daddy is Taking a nap right now. I'm tired too. Our room has a sliding door that goes out to a patio!! We even have our own chairs!!Mom likes our room because the hotel gym is right down the hall!! The gym is small but it will work fine. I haven't seen any other greyhounds yet but the lady at the desk said there are some all ready checked in. I'll have mom take some pictures. Mom is getting hungry. She is going to wake up daddy in a bit so they can go out to eat. I have my bunny and my pepper with me. They are my two favorite toys. More later!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I Got A Bath!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/822617</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 6 Apr 2013 17:39:28 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/822617</guid>
		<description>Grandpa's cat Blackie attacked me the other day! I came into the computer room with mom and dad. Bla ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Grandpa's cat Blackie attacked me the other day! I came into the computer room with mom and dad. Blackie was under the bed. I was just minding my own business when all of a sudden she exploded from under the bed, hissing and snarling at me! I was startled!! I barked and snapped at her. Then she got scared and ran back under the bed. I left the room as I didn't want any part of it. I'm glad I scared her. Maybe now she will respect me and leave me alone. I think she will. The next day daddy let her out of the computer room to explore the house some (Charlie was put in the computer room so the cats could exchange scents)I was sleeping in my bed upstairs. Blackie didn't come anywhere near me. She needed to be put in her place.

Well I got a bath yesterday! Daddy drove us to Dirty Hairy's self service dog wash. It wasn't so bad. The water felt nice and warm. I got shampoo and conditioner. Mom cleaned my ears too. Then they put me on a table and mom and dad used the blow dryer on me. A nice lady trimmed my nails and shaved the hair between my paws. I got a new bandana!!! It is blue with dragonflies on it! I smell funny now!!! BOL!! It actually felt good to get all that dead winter hair off. I'm shiny now. Mom says we are going to Gettysburg in a couple of weeks. She wanted me to have a bath before we leave.

We went to NH to visit Grandpa today. Mom and dad stopped at Lowes on the way. I had to share the back seat area with 2 chairs for the deck! I wasn't too happy about it. Daddy made me get out of the back seat and he folded the seats down to make more room. I was basically riding in the trunk! Mom also bought another blueberry bush. Now we have 2. They are supposed to pollinate each other. We visited with Grandpa in the sun room. He saw our car drive in so he walked down the hall to meet us. He looked good but he is a bit too thin. We had a nice visit. Some other people came into the sun room and they had a dog who was also visiting his Grandpa! His name was Zak. He was a cute little fluffy guy. We made friends and hung out together. That made it much more fun! Grandpa might go home next week. We shall see.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Happy Easter!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/820868</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 25 Mar 2013 09:51:28 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/820868</guid>
		<description>Wow, a lot has happened lately so this will be a long diary entry. Seems like everything happens at  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Wow, a lot has happened lately so this will be a long diary entry. Seems like everything happens at once! The snow is slowly melting and we are heading into Spring. It is still a bit cold outside but the end is in sight. I hope all my pup pals have a fun, safe Easter. Please remember that chocolate isn't good for us!

My prize bunny and medal came from England. My bunny is SO cute. I keep him near my bed at night. I will post a picture. Mom and dad got a little silly with the picture taking. That's OK though. I had fun posing. I am now officially in a long distance relationship with a greyhound from England. We met on Facebook! His name is Lucien. He is white. He is very handsome. I know we will never meet in person so it will be a virtual romance. That is OK with me. His mom was the one who held the contest where I won my bunny!!

My corn is doing well. Mom continues to put the softening cream on my paw every day. It seems to have stopped growing. I am now pain free and can run as much as I want now. In fact it feels so good that mom and dad took me on a Greyhound Adventures walk to Horn Pond. It was on March 17th which was also St. Patrick's Day. I wore a shamrock necklace to celebrate. About 30 or 40 dogs came! It was very cold! I wore my winter coat. The wind was strong too. Once we got walking, however, we all warmed up a bit. I think the humans were colder than we were.

This past Saturday we went to the Easter Pawlooza. Last year it was awesome!! That was were I won a gift basket in the costume contest and mom won a 20 gallon fish tank. This year is was a huge disappointment. The man who ran it last year no longer works for Pet Source. He did a great job organizing these events. We only stayed an hour. The raffle prizes were nothing we even wanted. I did have my picture taken with the Easter bunny, but the picture I took last year was better. Daddy doesn't want to buy it and I don't blame him. Mom said the background they used was too busy and takes away from the picture. I agree. We did buy some pet food and then went to check out another Pet Source location that just opened. This one is in Bolton,MA and is close to my Vet. The store was very small and not all the inventory had arrived yet. We chatted with the lady for a bit and then left. Mom was still looking for 2 varieties of cat food so we decided to go to another Pet Source in Concord, MA. Mom and dad figured they could stop and get lunch at the same time. On our way to the pet store we passed a park. Daddy noticed a loose dog in the parking lot. It was a greyhound! Usually we can never be off leash. If we get the urge to chase something, we are too fast and most of us don't come back when we are called. I am an exception to this. I stay close to mom and dad and I am very good about coming when I am called. Thankfully this greyhound was like me. Mom had grabbed a leash from the trunk of the car but she didn't need it. The dog's name was Zamboni (like the ice machine at skating rinks) He was 13! He looked a lot younger. Mom and dad talked to Zamboni's dad for a while. Daddy took my leash off so I could play. At the other end of the field was a man and a dog. I raced down to see the other dog. Mom called me and I raced right back. It was fun! I hope I see Zamboni again sometime. When we got to the pet store, everyone there knew Zamboni! What a fun day!

My grampy got sick again. He spent a week in the hospital. I wasn't allowed to go see him. This week they moved him back to a rehab center in Dover. He was there once before. That means I could go and visit him. Yesterday we all made the trip to go and visit. It was a long car ride. It is about an hour and a half away. Everyone who saw me wanted to pet me. I think most of the people in the center are lonely and miss their homes. A dog brightens up their day. They would talk about dogs they used to have. I'm glad I could cheer them up a little. We spent an hour or so visiting and then we drove back to grampy's house. We picked up his cat, Blackie, and brought her home with us. Another cat!! Oh, I wish it could have been a dog. Blackie stayed with us before. She was mean to everyone. I hope grampy gets better and can go home again. Then Blackie can go back with him. Mom hopes we can all get along better this time. I hope so!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Corn And Coats</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/818590</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 4 Mar 2013 11:18:41 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/818590</guid>
		<description>My corn is still making me limp a little but it is much better. Mom used a dremel tool to grind it b ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My corn is still making me limp a little but it is much better. Mom used a dremel tool to grind it back down because it was growing back again. She did some research on the Internet and learned that certain creams used for dry skin can help. She bought some and has been putting it on the corn every day. It is working! I only have a slight limp now and I can run again.

I hope everyone had nice Valentine's Day. Mom and dad bought me some special cookies from Boston Baked Bonz. They came with a nice card and ribbons on the boxes. It made my day very special. Mom and dad went to a movie and out to dinner. Mom said it was a wonderful day.

I won another contest! This one was a picture contest on Facebook. I have two new friends from the UK- a whippet named Floyd and a Greyhound named Lucien. They have a virtual hotel and all sorts of contest  and activities. It is called Angels Fiesta Fantasia Hotel. They run the Hotel & Events to raise funds & aid for Yorkshire Coast Dog Rescue & Ryedale Dog Rescue. They are a wonderful family of humans and hounds and I am proud to be their friend. They had a collar and coat contest. Mom entered my picture of me as Isis. I won the coat and collar combination category. I am waiting for my prize which might take a while since it is coming from the UK. I won a stuffed rabbit and a medal! I will post pictures when my prize arrives.

We all went to visit grampy in NH yesterday. It was nice to see him. Mom brought me cookies so I could make crumbs on grampy's rug again. Don't worry, Daddy vacuumed for me. We had a nice visit and watched movies.

I do have some very sad news. My good friend, Troy went to the rainbow bridge. We still don't know exactly what happened. His mom posted about it on Facebook. She said she was looking for an ophthalmologist specialist to see Troy. The next thing she posted was that they had to let Troy go to the bridge! Mom thinks he must have had cancer. He was one of my best friends. We did many meet and greets together and he came to many of my birthday parties. He was the best shopper I knew. I still have the squeaky stuffed duck he bought me for my birthday. I will treasure it always. He will be very missed. Run free at the bridge Troy!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Blizzard of 2013</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/815502</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 9 Feb 2013 07:27:39 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/815502</guid>
		<description>I hope all my pup pals That live in my area are warm and safe. It was quite a wild storm. As of this ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I hope all my pup pals That live in my area are warm and safe. It was quite a wild storm. As of this writing it still isn't over yet. Daddy is outside right now trying to clean up some of the snow. Mom had daddy take me out this morning. We couldn't even get out of our front door! The snow was plied up so high that it blocked the door! Daddy took me in the back yard. We had to jump over 10 inches of snow to get out on the deck. I was over my belly in some places and I had to jump! It is hard to tell exactly how many inches we have so far because the wind caused a lot of drifting. Near the garden, the snow is almost as high as the 6 foot fence. In other spots there is very little. It is still snowing out, but not very hard now. I think most of the storm is over. I am glad that we didn't lose our power. It is dry and warm in here.

Update on my paw. I had to go back to the vet as I was still limping a week after I had my wart removed. I got x-rays and everything was fine. The vet moved my leg around and found where it hurt. I let him know and yelped. I have a sprained ligament in my left shoulder. I was put on a homeopathic ligament repair medicine and aspirin (2 times a day but only for 3 days in a row, then 3 days off)I was also put on exercise restriction. I wasn't happy about that. Mom explained I needed to rest so it would heal. After a while my tummy didn't like the aspirin any more. It made me sick and I lost my food. Mom had to clean it off the rug. I'm not taking aspirin any more and now I feel fine again. My shoulder is getting better and I only have a little limp left. I still have to rest for another week and a half before I can run again. I'll be glad when that is over! I want to run!!! Mom and dad wanted to do something special for me so last week they took me to Dirty Hairy's Dog Wash. I got a pedicure treatment! They trimmed my nails, shaved all the hair around my toes and then put some nice cream on my paw pads. That felt good!!! Then mom and dad bought me the biggest cookie I have ever seen!! That was nice!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A Trip To The Vet</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/812551</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 15 Jan 2013 14:03:31 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/812551</guid>
		<description>I hope everyone had a very Happy New Year. It was quiet for us. Mom and dad were going to a party bu ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I hope everyone had a very Happy New Year. It was quiet for us. Mom and dad were going to a party but stayed home with me instead. I slept right through the new year. Things have been very quiet so far. Besides my daily runs in the yard and weekly trips to the pet store, Nothing very exciting has happened. 

Mom did notice me limping last week. Daddy noticed it too. I have been running very hard a couple of times a day in my new yard. Mom and dad figured I sprained a muscle or something. daddy said we should wait a few days to see if I would get better on my own. Mom said we would wait until after the weekend and if I wasn't better by Monday, she would call the vet. On Sunday, mom and dad had a Reiki group come over the house. They all do Reiki on each other. For those who don't know what Reiki is- it is energy healing. Mom has been a Reiki Master for over 10 years. Daddy is a level 2. I got a healing session myself. I really enjoyed it. Unfortunately, I was still limping on Monday so mom called my doctor. Now that mom and dad only have one car, daddy would have had to drive me in. Mom's friend, Chris, offered to take us so daddy wouldn't have to. Mom happily said "Yes". Chris came today and took me and mom for my appointment. I jumped right into Chris's car even though I had never ridden in it before. As long as mom was there with me, I knew it was OK. Mom was very scared because greyhounds are prone to bone cancer. It is called Osteosarcoma. It is never good and usually always fatal or they have to amputate the affected limb. We were sitting in the waiting room when a big golden retriever came in. He must have been really excited to see me because he had a major accident all over the waiting room floor. Maybe he was just nervous. A vet tech came out and cleaned it up. Finally we were called into the exam room. The vet tech had to take my temperature. That wasn't very pleasant. Then we waited and waited and waited. Mom was glad that Chris was there to talk to. Finally my doctor came in. I was happy to see him. He is SO nice and always helps me feel better. He gave me lots of treats. Normally I never eat treats in public and to eat treats at a vet office would be out of the question, but for my doctor I make an exception. I feel very safe, loved and comfortable with him. He gives me nice pets and scratches and he even gave me a chiropractic adjustment!! I was SO hoping he would. Well he found the problem. I had a plantar wart on one of my paw pads! It was sticking into my paw and making me hurt when I stepped on it. Mom was relieved and so was Chris. My doctor removed it with a drummel tool, just like what they use to trim my nails. The wart will grow back so mom and dad will get a drummel tool for home. My doctor said my paw will be tender for a couple of days but I should be limp free by Friday. If I'm not, I may have to go back, but I am feeling better already.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>A Very Merry Christmas!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/810072</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 26 Dec 2012 08:14:07 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/810072</guid>
		<description>I hope all my pup pals had a very Merry Christmas, Happy Solstice, Happy Kwanza or Happy Hanukkah. W ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I hope all my pup pals had a very Merry Christmas, Happy Solstice, Happy Kwanza or Happy Hanukkah. We celebrated Christmas. On Sunday we went to NH to visit Grampy and mom's daughter and granddaughter. They live in a town called Dover which is about 20 minutes from grampy's house. I had to stay in the car. For one thing, mom's daughter, Heather, lives on the third floor so there are lots of stairs. Also Heather has 10 cats who are not used to dogs. Mom thought it would be best for me to wait in the car. Mom and dad kept the visit short. I had my jacket on so I stayed nice and warm. I slept. Heather and Davina came down to see me before we left. I remembered Davina because she has stayed at our house a few times and took me for walks. After that visit we drove to grampy's house. I knew right where we were when we pulled into the driveway. I walked right into grampy's house. Mom gave me 3 cookies which I carried one at a time to grampy's rug. Daddy had to vacuum my crumbs! We had a nice time.

Yesterday was Christmas. Mom put all the presents under the tree. Ben came down with me to open presents but Charlie stayed under the bed and missed it! I got my new hand knitted jacket. It is so beautiful and soft as well as warm. It was made just for me! I also got a whole big gift box of cookies!! I ate 4 of them yesterday!! They are in a container shaped like a Christmas Tree. It was such a nice day.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I Got Stuck!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/808929</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 17 Dec 2012 08:53:59 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/808929</guid>
		<description>It was a quiet weekend. On Saturday mom and dad had a lot of shopping to do. I usually go with them  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It was a quiet weekend. On Saturday mom and dad had a lot of shopping to do. I usually go with them to the pet store but they said they had to go to a lot of stores and I would have to wait in the car. It was better that I stayed home. When mom and dad got home I sniffed them to see where they had been. They had my friend, Fast's, sent all over them! I couldn't believe it! Mom explained that they went to the pet store in Framingham. We have been there before but it isn't our usual store. They were having a short notice meet and greet for Greyhound Friends. Fast and his mom, Barbara, where there. Mom said she was very surprised to see them there too. Anyway, to make up for it, mom gave me the biggest cookie I had ever seen! That night daddy drove me and mom around our town to look at all the Christmas Lights. We sang Christmas songs too. That was fun.

On Sunday we were supposed to go visit Grampy in NH but the weather was too bad. It was snowing and raining ice pellets. The roads weren't good so we all stayed home. Mom and dad hung pictures on the walls. It was a good day to do that. We had freezing rain over night. I got stuck outside this morning! Mom let me out like always. I made it down the deck stairs to the yard OK, but I couldn't get back up! The stairs were covered in ice. I tried to climb them but I kept slipping. Mom saw me shaking and ran up to get daddy out of bed. Daddy came outside to help me. He put my harness on and tried to lead me up the stairs. It was just too slippery. He tried to pick me up but I wouldn't let him. Mom told daddy to lead me out the gate to the driveway and then to the side door to the house. Mom then realized that the entire driveway was all ice and those stairs weren't any better than the deck. Mom ran down the basement and got a tool that breaks up ice. Daddy had to use the ice breaker thing to get the ice off the steps and the deck. It was still freezing rain out too. I was glad I had my winter coat on. My coat was soaked by the time I got back in. Mom wiped the rain off my head. I'm glad to be back inside where it is warm and dry. Daddy is working from home today because there are a lot of accidents because of the ice.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Jingle Bell Walk</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/808161</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 10 Dec 2012 11:01:30 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/808161</guid>
		<description>I went to Boston yesterday with mom and dad! Greyhound Adventures was holding it's annual Jingle Bel ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I went to Boston yesterday with mom and dad! Greyhound Adventures was holding it's annual Jingle Bell Walk in the Boston Commons and Public Gardens. This walk is special for several reasons. First we get to all dress up in our holiday attire. I wore my reindeer antlers and a Christmas bandana. Secondly we pay tribute to all our brothers and sisters who went to the Rainbow Bridge this past year. I lost two VERY good friends- GT and Sonie. Last, it is the biggest walk of the year with about 100 dogs attending. Daddy drove us into Boston. We parked at a parking garage underneath Boston Commons!! It was dark inside the garage, like going into a tunnel. Daddy found a really good parking space. When I got out of the car, there were two other greyhounds getting ready to walk too!That is when I really got excited! You could take the elevator (Also known as the room that moves) or the stairs. I chose the stairs. As we got to the stairs I saw Brutus behind me! I remembered him form Greyhound Friends. We played in the big yard together once. It was nice to see him again. He looked good. We walked up the stairs and came out in the Commons. We did have to cross the street to get to the meeting place, but there were lights to help you cross. I like this part of Boston the best. I had only been to the city once before- for the Irish Greyhound Protest. It was smelly and noisy and I didn't like it at all. This place had lots of grass, trees and squirrels. We met at the swan boat dock. Johnny B and Cella where there with their mom and dad (Carolyn and John)I hadn't seen them since my birthday party. Lots of dogs started to arrive. Most where greyhounds but not all of them were. There was a pitbull in a wheel chair cart. There were also some other breeds too. The walk leaders came and gave everyone a jingle bell. I really liked my bell. They also took donations that went to help the Ohio State University Greyhound Health and Wellness Program. They are doing research on osteosarcoma which is a type of bone cancer we get. 1 in 4 greyhounds get this cancer! Daddy gave a donation and the money was matched by The Greyhound Project! We had such a nice walk! We walked along a path. People stopped and watched us. It was like a big greyhound parade. We walked all through the Public Gardens and the Boston Commons. We ended the walk on top of a big hill with a huge statue on top. We took a group picture but there was so many of us, you could hardly see everyone. Mom met a Facebook friend on the walk. Her name is Leslie and she had a black greyhound named Lex. He was very nice. 3 Of the bells had black dots on them and the dogs with those bells won prizes. My bell didn't have any dots on it. I didn't care because I loved my bell and I wore it the rest of the day!On our way back to the car mom and dad made me get in the room that moves. I will never get used to it. It feels strange and when the doors open you are in a different place!

Later last night people came over. Mom and dad were having a Reiki group. I greeted everyone who came over. I knew some of them. I got to have Reiki too. It was a greyt day!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Maynard Christmas Parade</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/807309</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 3 Dec 2012 11:26:19 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/807309</guid>
		<description>I marched in the Maynard Christmas Parade on Sunday. This was my 4th parade. I guess you could say I ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I marched in the Maynard Christmas Parade on Sunday. This was my 4th parade. I guess you could say I am a professional by now. Mom, dad and I walked over to the start point. There was a helicopter flying over head as we were making our way to the big parking lot where the parade starts and finishes. My friend Santa Claus was in the helicopter. He waved at me! I was happy to be on the ground walking. We found the other dogs and joined them. We are called MayDOG. It stands for Maynard Dog Owners Group. I knew a couple of the dogs from last year. Mom put on my reindeer antlers and I also wore my holiday bandana. We watched as the groups before us started to leave for the parade. There were some old cars, a couple of marching bands, the militia with muskets and a few other groups. Then it was our turn. There was an excellent turn out this year. The streets were lined with people. A lot of people took my picture and remarked about my reindeer antlers. Some said I looked like a deer. I was calm through the whole parade. Mom enjoyed the music from the marching band that was ahead of us. I must admit they played very well. Mom saw some people she knew and waved to them. It was fun. I didn't know it at the time but my pet sitter, Sarah, video taped us as we marched by. You can see the video on my Dogster page! There were a few times where we had to stand and wait. The parade was the biggest one yet and it was so long that the front met the back at Nason Street and Main Street (We do a loop around) We marched back to the start point and then we got to watch the part of the parade that was behind us on the way home. At the end of the parade was my friend Santa Claus. I had just seen him the day before when I had my picture taken with him. He must have been staying in our town over the weekend. We are good friends now. I know he will bring me something really good for Christmas.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I Saw Santa Claus!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/807081</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 1 Dec 2012 19:45:10 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/807081</guid>
		<description>I won a book this week! There was a contest on Facebook to win a book called &quot;Comet's Tale&quot;. It is a ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I won a book this week! There was a contest on Facebook to win a book called "Comet's Tale". It is a story about how a disabled man adopted a greyhound and the greyhound went on to become a service dog and saved the man's life. Our friend Christine Dorchak from Grey2KUSA (Zoe's mom),was holding the contest. Mom really wanted to win the book. She entered, daddy entered and then mom entered me since I have my own Facebook page. There were 5 winners picked. I couldn't believe it when I won!! It is a signed copy too. Since I won the book and I really can't read, mom has been reading it to me. It is such a nice story. We are about half way through the book now.

Today was a very special day. After lunch we all got in the car and went to the pet store near our house. I thought we were just getting our usual food and supplies. Boy, was I wrong! My friend, Fred Levy was there! He is a photographer that we know very well. I like him because he always makes a big fuss over me every time he sees me. We are even Facebook friends! After I greeted Fred, mom took me around to the other side of the counter and guess who was there! It was Santa Claus himself! I couldn't believe it! Two years ago I met a fake Santa Claus. Mom said he was one of Santa's helpers. I could tell he wasn't the real Santa because his beard was half falling off!! I really do think this was the real Santa!! He was SO nice. He let me sniff him and he petted me. Mom put my reindeer antlers on me. These were the ones she got from Petco. I looked just like one of Santa's reindeer. I think I am now an official reindeer! Santa and I had our picture taken. I told him what I wanted for Christmas too! It really came out nice! Mom and dad just ordered another, bigger print. Mom already has a frame waiting for it.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>A Hike At Minute Man Park</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/806346</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 26 Nov 2012 06:30:38 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/806346</guid>
		<description>I hope everyone had a safe and fun Thanksgiving! My grandmother and aunt Ruth were supposed to come  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I hope everyone had a safe and fun Thanksgiving! My grandmother and aunt Ruth were supposed to come to dinner at our house but Grandma got sick and went to the hospital. She came home but she had to go back in again. They are running tests. I hope she is OK. She is 87 years old! Mom and dad went to a friend's house instead. Dogs weren't invited so I had to stay home with the cats. Mom gave me some cookies as my Thanksgiving treat. Mom and dad were home with me a lot this weekend. That was nice. On Saturday we went for a hike at Minute Man Park. I have been there many times before. At first I thought it was a greyhound adventure. I was looking for other greyhounds but I didn't see any. I had to walk with a group of humans. I did meet other dogs along the way. I enjoyed that. We walked the same path that I usually do with the other greyhounds. 
Mom put up the Christmas tree and some of the light in the windows this weekend. She wanted to string up the lights outside but she got sick after doing the hike. It was a very cold and windy day. Daddy had been sick and mom was fighting it off. Being out in the cold for an hour and a half was too much for her. Mom is all stuffed up with a headache. She is home with me today. I hope she feels better soon.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>My Birthday Party!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/805440</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 17 Nov 2012 17:40:25 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/805440</guid>
		<description>Mom and dad gave me a birthday party today! Mom left this morning and came back with 4 balloons. Two ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom and dad gave me a birthday party today! Mom left this morning and came back with 4 balloons. Two were blue, one was yellow and one was green. Mom picked all the colors that dogs can see. A little while later a man came to the door. I recognized him. It was Rob who is the president of MayDOG (Maynard Dog Owners Group). He had a box for mom. He gave her the box and left. Wow did that box smell good! I followed mom and the box into the kitchen but she put it in the refrigerator. Daddy came home a little while later and he had a box! This box smelled good too. That box went in the refrigerator too. Then mom and dad started making lasagna. Now I knew something was up. Sure enough, a couple of hours later people and dogs started coming to the house! They had presents for me too! My doggy friend Johnny B, Kitty and Zoe came. A dog named Cella came to. She is Johnny B's new girl friend. Johnny B's sister Sonie went to the rainbow bridge. I miss her because we were good friends and she always let me steal her cookies! Johnny B's mom and dad adopted Cella. Some human friends came too! One was Zoe's mom Christine Dorchak! She is the president and founder of Grey2KUSA! She is helping to shut down all the greyhound race tracks in the United States and also over seas! She is a very special friend. We all got to run and play in my new big yard. We had a lot of fun. Soon it was time for food. All the humans ate their food first and we dogs had to wait patiently. Finally it was time for the cake! We got served first. Everyone sang happy birthday to me. Daddy cut up big pieces of cake for all of us. I tried to get Zoe's cake at first! Mom called to me and I realized I had cake of my own. I grabbed mine off my plate and carried it off. I tried to eat it in one bite but it was too big. We all had seconds. Wow was that ever good! Then the humans had their cake. I think ours was better. Next I got to open my gifts. I got lots of yummy cookies, and a stuffed tiger. Then mom opened my gift from Johnny B and Cella. I got a $25 gift certificate to Pet Source! Wow, what an awesome gift. There was something else in my bag and mom started laughing! It was a stuffed cow. I couldn't believe it! It is exactly like the stuffed cow mom has! Yes, mom has a dog toy! Mom has a thing for cows. Daddy bought it for her for her birthday last year. Mom went upstairs and got her cow. They were twins. Everyone got a kick out of it. Now I have my very own! I was sad when everyone started to leave. Kitty didn't want to go home. Her mom, Donna, put her leash on and Kitty just laid down on the blanket and wouldn't get up. Donna tried for 5 minutes to get Kitty to leave. Finally Donna showed Kitty some cake and then she got up. Zoe stayed for a little while longer. I was glad. I really like Zoe. WE did a protest once together in Boston. We were trying to tell the Irish government not to sell greyhounds to China. Finally Zoe had to leave too. What a wonderful day. I think I will have sweet dreams tonight.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Today Is My Birthday!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/805310</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 16 Nov 2012 12:18:36 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/805310</guid>
		<description>I turned 6 today! Mom and dad bought me special treats. They are called Boston Baked Bonz. I got pum ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I turned 6 today! Mom and dad bought me special treats. They are called Boston Baked Bonz. I got pumpkin muffins and peanut butter crunchies! They are both my very favorite in the whole world. I had to laugh because Ben and Charlie both had to go to the vets this morning! Nothing serious-just their annual check up. I just thought it was funny because it is my birthday. Mom cleaned the whole house this afternoon. I think I may be having a party tomorrow. I know something special will happen when mom cleans like that. Usually people and sometimes dogs come over. I will let everyone know what happens!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>My New Coat</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/804297</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 7 Nov 2012 16:44:08 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/804297</guid>
		<description>My new sweater coat came from England today! Wow, that was fast! Mom didn't know how long it would t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My new sweater coat came from England today! Wow, that was fast! Mom didn't know how long it would take to get here. Even though I can't have it until Christmas, mom let me try it on. It was so soft and comfortable. It fits me really well too. I think it was made just for me! Mom put up a picture of me wearing it. Check it out on my page!

Today 2 men came. They made a lot of noise. I stayed upstairs most of the day. The cats stayed upstairs with me. When the men finally left I went downstairs. There are doors up in mom's "Reiki Room". Mom and dad both do something called Reiki. It is energy healing. I have had it done to me. I like it and it makes me feel better. Mom is making a special room so she can help people (and animals) heal. She needed doors to create a safe, secure and private place. The doors are called French Doors and they have little windows in them. That way the room still feels open and airy, yet creates what mom calls a sacred space. She will have candles and angel statues in the room. The men are coming back tomorrow to finish putting up the doors. I hope they finish fast!

This afternoon the weather got bad and it started to snow! I'm not sure if I like it or not. There wasn't enough to play in yet!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>A Trip To New Hampshire</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/804151</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 6 Nov 2012 08:33:21 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/804151</guid>
		<description>Mom entered me in another Halloween costume contest again. This one was on Facebook so I didn't have ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom entered me in another Halloween costume contest again. This one was on Facebook so I didn't have to do anything. Mom just submitted a picture of me and asked people to vote. I got 71 votes and I won! The contest was in England so I won 20 British Pounds. Mom said it was about $32. Mom bought me a hand knitted coat with the prize money. My coat has already been shipped from England. I don't know how long it will take to get here. Mom wants it to be a Christmas present. Daddy worked from home on Halloween to greet the trick or treaters because mom had to work. At our old house we were lucky to get one kid. I was shocked to see all the kids that came to the door. Daddy guessed it was about 20. He was happy to see so many.

On Sunday we went to NH to visit with grampy. I always like visiting him. I knew where I was the moment we pulled into the driveway. I walked right in and made myself at home. Mom brought me kibble and cookies. I made a mess on grampy's rug again. He didn't mind though because daddy vacuumed all the crumbs up. Daddy took me out to grampy's yard and I ran like a crazy dog. Since I have my own yard to run in now, I am in really good shape! Mom says I don't have any fat on my legs any more. I am solid muscle. I like to exercise but I am glad I don't have to race any more. It is much more fun running when I want to.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Monster Bark!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/803019</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 28 Oct 2012 14:57:39 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/803019</guid>
		<description>Mom and dad brought me to Monster Bark today! The pet store near our house has it every year. It is  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom and dad brought me to Monster Bark today! The pet store near our house has it every year. It is a big costume contest. I actually won it back in 2009. The weather wasn't very nice because we are having a hurricane come tomorrow and the next day. Mom said there will be a lot of wind and rain. It won't be too bad by the time it gets here.(at least we hope not)Daddy thought that maybe there wouldn't be many people or dogs because of the weather. Boy was he wrong!! It was packed! First we had to go to the registration table. There mom filled out a paper and we had to pick things to donate to the charity organization. This organization helps deaf people by training service dogs. Mom and dad donated 3 items. Then we went to the cash register to pay for the donated items. Then we had to go to another table where we got our number and raffle tickets. Because mom and dad donated 3 items we also got a goody bag and a plastic container for the cat food. Daddy ran the goody bag and plastic cat food container out to the car. We found a quiet place in the store and mom and dad put my costume on. Mom's friend Jen, who made my costume, came to wish me luck. Her daughter, Anna, came too. It was getting really crowded inside the store. People and pets kept coming in to register. The man who manages the store announced that photos needed to be taken, so mom, dad and I made our way to the photo line. I had wings on so mom held them up and out of the way because there wasn't much room. I finally got my pictures taken. Mom said they will be E-mailed to me later. After the pictures we went outside because the store was just too crowded. Jen had to leave so we said "Goodbye". Next they had a trivia question competition to kill time while the last minute entries registered. Mom answered some questions and got prizes ( dog shampoo and 6 cans of dog food) Finally we had to line up for the costume contest. Mom and dad couldn't believe it. There were 45 dogs and cats in the contest! This was the biggest costume contest I have ever been in! We paraded around the shopping center. People from some of the businesses in the shopping center were the judges. After we came back to the pet store, we each got to go up in front of everyone and individually show off our costumes. We were number 13 so after we went up, mom took my wig and head piece off so I could relax a bit. I appreciated that. Finally it was time to announce the winners. They had several categories like funniest, most creative etc. Then they said they were going to announce the grand prize winner. The store manager said that the winner was.... "Isis"!!! I couldn't believe my ears!! Mom and I walked back up front to get congratulated. I won $100 gift certificate to the store!! Next they drew the raffle prizes. Mom was shocked to learn she won the Nature's Miracle gift basket! What a day!!! Mom and dad undressed me and we took the Nature's Miracle gift basket to the car. Then we went back inside the store to spend my winnings. We got all sorts of pet food, kitty litter, fish supplies and two of the biggest cookies mom could find. She said I deserved them. I spent almost the entire prize money but I still have 6 dollars left. We went back home and mom and dad went through everything. Mom and dad had to go to Buddy Dog to pick up my raffle prize from Woofstock. They are a no kill shelter not too far from our house. I won a dog feeding station in their raffle. There were some dog and cat food we couldn't use in my goody bag (Ben is allergic to chicken)and they had some potty pads in the Nature's Miracle gift basket. I decided to donate those to Buddy Dog. I love to give back, especially to shelters and charities that help other animals. Mom said they were very happy. Especially for the pads. I am now passed out on the floor of the computer room. I will post some pictures as soon as we get them.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Woofstock!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/801216</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 13 Oct 2012 17:03:15 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/801216</guid>
		<description>I was used as an advertising model again! Mom got an E-mail from my favorite pet store. When she ope ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I was used as an advertising model again! Mom got an E-mail from my favorite pet store. When she opened the E-mail there I was in the costume that I had won the Monster Bark contest a few years ago. I'll post a picture of it.

Today we went to Woofstock. This was the first time we had ever been. It was close to our town so it was only a short drive. I got all excited when I saw the other dogs. We paid the admission and went in. Mom was drawn to the raffle table. She bought some tickets and put them in the things she wanted to win. daddy noticed a big sign on the fence that said "Costume Contest"! Mom had checked the website to see if they were having a costume contest but it was never posted that they were. Mom made daddy drive all the way back home to get my costume! Daddy was a little mad at first, and he never gets mad at mom. We were back to Woofstock in plenty of time though. It took less than an hour. We walked all around the fair and saw all the booths. They were most of the same booths we have seen before at other events, but it was still fun. Dirty Hairy's had a booth. That is where I go to get my bath. Also my vet was there. I'm glad I was feeling well. We also stopped at a greyhound rescue called Amazing Greys. I liked seeing all the other dogs the best. Finally it was time for the costume contest. Mom dressed me up in my Isis costume. Everyone kept thinking I was Cleopatra. I don't know why they always think that. One lady thought I was Nefertiti. And older woman kept petting me and messing up my wig! Mom kept trying to fix it and the woman would mess it up again! There were a lot of other dogs in the competition. I would say there were at least 10 or 12. Some had really cool outfits too. I couldn't believe it when they said I had won! I got the best prizes ever!!  I got a really nice dog blanket to sleep on, 4 different toys and a huge metal can to keep all my dry kibble in! I liked the big can a lot. Ben is always ripping up my dog food bag and spilling my kibble all over the floor. Now it will stay safe and fresh. The can even says "Dog food" on it! I like my new toys too!

We stopped off at the pet store after Woofstock to get food for the next two weeks. Next weekend will be very busy so mom wanted to stock up on food. When we got home mom and dad went out into the yard. Of course I went along too. Daddy started to dig a big hole in the ground. I helped daddy dig! I did a good job. Daddy dug a very deep hole and he put a plastic pail in the hole. Mom told me the pail was for my dog waste. There are special enzymes that will break it all down into harmless substances. You add water, enzymes and my contribution to the pail. I though that was pretty cool! Daddy took some of extra dirt and fill in under the fence where there were holes. Mom and dad wanted to make the yard safe so Ben could go outside. Ben always tries to get outside every chance he gets. With the high fence and supervision, now he can go outside sometime. He was a happy cat. He stayed in the yard and walked all around. I went into a play bow and chased him a bit. I was very gentle and knew I was just playing. We touched noses. It was such a fun day!

Later in the week mom got a phone call from Buddy Dog. I won a dog feeding station in the raffle! Mom said she would pick it up within the next few weeks and they said they would hold it for her in the office!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>My New House!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/799140</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 29 Sep 2012 19:17:27 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/799140</guid>
		<description>We moved to the new house yesterday. Mom and dad had to get up very early. They took me, Ben and Cha ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We moved to the new house yesterday. Mom and dad had to get up very early. They took me, Ben and Charlie to our pet sitters house. She took care of us while mom and dad moved. Mom told me they got professional movers to help them. I guess it was a hectic day from what they are telling me. When they came to get us, all of our stuff was already in the new house. Daddy's mom and his sister were there helping mom organize the kitchen. There were SO many boxes. I found my bed and laid down to watch. Mom and dad worked late into the night and most of today as well. The boxes are disappearing and things are finding their places. Mom hoped to be mostly unpacked by the end of tomorrow. Knowing mom, it probably will get done. Today we did take a walk over to the farmer's market. There was a lady trying to pet me. I kept trying to let her know I was uncomfortable. She just wasn't getting it. Mom even told her, but she kept persisting. Why do humans do that? Later in the afternoon we went to Petco. I got a pooper scooper for the back yard. Mom and dad also bought a privacy box for Ben and Charlie. It is supposed to be for a litter box, but the cat food is inside instead! In the old house there was a cat door to the basement so mom put the cat food on the stair landing so I wouldn't eat it. Here there isn't a cat door and mom doesn't want to put one in the door. Well, I ate the cat food today! I knew I wasn't supposed to but I did. Now I can't!! The cats can go right through the hole in the box. Oh well. Guess I will just have to eat my own dog food. I love running in my new yard. It is great!! I'm glad mom and dad bought me this house!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I'm On Facebook!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/798653</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 25 Sep 2012 13:40:45 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/798653</guid>
		<description>Mom made me a Facebook page! Wow! I was surprised to see how many other dogs have their own pages to ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom made me a Facebook page! Wow! I was surprised to see how many other dogs have their own pages too. It is nice because I can talk to my friends right away. Don't worry, mom is still going to keep my diary- always!! If any of my pup pals is on Facebook- PLEASE friends me!!!
http://www.facebook.com/isis.langlois.9 or just search for Isis Langlois

Mom and dad are having the floors and carpets done in our new house before we move. Daddy had to meet the cleaning company yesterday so our realtor gave him the keys! Last night mom and dad sneaked back to the house and brought me with them! They opened the gate to the back yard and led me through. Mom said that my face lit up like a Christmas Tree. The minute she took my harness off, I bolted!!! I ran and ran! Oh, happy doggy!! I can't wait until I can run there all the time. I did my business in the yard and mom praised and praised me to let me know that it was OK to do that. I got to go inside the house too for a few minutes. I only went downstairs because mom and dad have to get carpet treads on the stairs first so I won't slip. The stairs are just wood and slippery. We met some of our new neighbors too. There are dogs across the street!! I think I will like our new house!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Greyhound Friend's Fall Open House!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/798393</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 23 Sep 2012 11:52:27 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/798393</guid>
		<description>Yesterday we went to Greyhound Friend's Fall Open House! Usually we always work at the silent auctio ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yesterday we went to Greyhound Friend's Fall Open House! Usually we always work at the silent auction and raffle table, but this time mom and dad felt they couldn't make the commitment. We are moving to our new house on Friday and there is still so much more work to do. Mom and dad have been busy packing all our stuff and throwing out what we don't need. It was a beautiful day and I knew where I was the moment we pulled in the driveway. The field was full of cars. There where more people and dogs there than ever before. They had a huge yard sale going on. This was the first year they did this. Mom found a dinning table and chairs that she wanted very much. Daddy reminded her that money was too tight because of the move. Mom was sad but agreed that the timing just wasn't right. Mom and dad took me to see the vet there. A vet volunteers her time every open house to answer questions. My neck has been bothering me for the last week or so. Mom noticed that I kept scratching at my collar. She looked and saw that I have a rash on my neck where my collar goes. I haven't worn my collar now for about 4 days. Mom put all my ID tags on my harness. I always walk with my harness any way. It keeps me from pulling and doesn't cause me to choke. I love my harness and I will actually put my head right into it when I go for my walk. The vet thought it was something called a "hot Spot" Mom and dad are getting me some aloe vera cream. Next we walked around and looked at all the booths. Mom finally got to meet Cindy Maxwell. She is mom's Facebook friend. She is a greyhound! Cindy walked right up to mom and said "Hi". Maybe I should have a Facebook page too? Soon the dog show started so mom got me ready for the costume contest. Once again everyone was taking my picture. This one was judged by judges. I won! I got a really cool squeaky soccer ball, a milk bone, a big blue ribbon and a $15 gift certificate to Petco! I am going to buy a pooper scooper with my prize money. It will come in handy for mom and dad to clean up my new yard. I have enough toys and I want to keep my yard clean. We entered the raffle but I don't think we won anything this time. That is OK. I had a fun day.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>New England Pet Expo</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/797651</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 19 Sep 2012 07:25:28 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/797651</guid>
		<description>Saturday was an incredible day. We left early in the morning and drove for about an hour. We ended u ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Saturday was an incredible day. We left early in the morning and drove for about an hour. We ended up at a place I had never been before. The doors hadn't opened yet so we all stood outside and socialized. A lot of humans wanted to pet me but I wasn't that comfortable with it. I was more interested in the other dogs. We did see two humans I knew. They were from Greyhound Adventures. I let them pet me. Finally the doors opened and we went inside. Mom had to show my vaccination papers and give them a registration form. Them we got to go inside. Mom started filling out a raffle entry at the entrance but daddy came and told her to forget it and to walk inside and over to the the left. Mom let daddy finish the raffle entry and did as daddy said. I went with mom. Shorty Rossi from the TV show Pit Boss was there sitting at a table! Mom ran and got in line. Daddy came back and took me because the isle for the line was kind of narrow. Mom didn't have to wait too long because the line was short. That is why daddy came and told her. Mom met Shorty and talked to him. She had her picture taken with him and bought a T-shirt. After that we started to look at all the booths. It was strange because everything was inside a building! There were rows and rows of booths with all kinds of pet related things. We were looking at a booth when the man at Casey Jones Bones came up to mom. They actually knew each other form many years ago! When mom knew him he was a chemistry grad student and worked out at the gym she worked at. They hugged each other and talked for a while. I have a box of Casey Jones Bones in our cabinet. Mom and dad bought them for me as a gift when they went on vacation. I have eaten most of them. Next we went to Greyhound Friend's booth for a while before looking at all the other booths. We listened to some of the talks too. Shorty gave a welcome speech, there was a talk on pet first aid and CPR, a talk on breed specific legislation, a parade of breeds and a talent show. Mom and dad recognized one of the dogs in the talent show. She was a special needs girl who had been on Pit Boss. She had wanted to meet Shorty and had adopted a pit bull puppy from him! That so so cool! Mom's favorite talk, however, was the one given by Shorty. He talked about how pit bulls are good, sweet and loyal dogs and it is the people who should be blamed, not the dogs. Shorty asked the audience which breed was responsible for the most dog bites. Mom raised her hand and Shorty called on her!!!!! Mom said Golden Retrievers. Shorty was impressed because mom got it right. That made mom's day. Finally it was time for the costume contest. Mom and dad had left my costume in the car so they wouldn't have to carry it around with them. It was nice to go outside for a bit and relieve myself. Mom and dad took me to a quiet area and dressed me. People going by started taking my picture. The contest was different from others I had been in. This one was judged by how many people clapped and cheered. Mom's friend, Jen, was supposed to come with her kids to cheer for me but she didn't show up. There were about 20 contestants in the contest (2 were cats)! I made the top 5 but that was as far as I went. The winner had their family and friends there so they won. That was OK with me. Being in the top 5 out of 20 was pretty good. I was a tired dog when we got home. It was a fun day and one I will remember for a long time.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Happy News!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/796577</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 11 Sep 2012 10:09:07 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/796577</guid>
		<description>In my last diary entry I mentioned that a little Yorkie was lost on the river trail. I am happy to s ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ In my last diary entry I mentioned that a little Yorkie was lost on the river trail. I am happy to say that she has been found and is back home with her brother. When mom, dad and I were walking up the street we saw her in the yard. She seemed happy and was playing with her toy. I am happy that she is OK.

On Sunday we went to the Pet Rock Festival. I think this was my 4th time going there. I was so excited to see all the dogs. We went and saw every booth. All the booths are placed around a 1/4 mile track. Mom guessed that there were at least 50 booths and probably more. First we did the outer circle and then we did the inner circle. In all it was 1/2 mile to see everything. I played with some other dogs in the water park. They has swimming pools to wade in. There were a lot of other greyhounds this year. I said "Hello" to every one of them. Mom got to hold a rat that a lady was carrying around. Mom has had many rats and misses having one in her life. With Ben and Charlie around, it wouldn't be safe to have one at our house. Mom and dad got some food and we ate in the shade. We were there for over two hours. It was another fun day!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>My Costume Debute</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/796323</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 9 Sep 2012 07:30:27 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/796323</guid>
		<description>It has been a busy couple of weeks. I am happy to say that I am fully recovered from my illness and  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It has been a busy couple of weeks. I am happy to say that I am fully recovered from my illness and feeling fine. Mom is behind on my diary again so we will go back to last week. 

After I was sick, I got very stinky. I usually don't have a strong doggy odor but I was so smelly that mom and dad took me to Dirty Hairy's for a bath. I had been there before so I was more relaxed. The water felt good and I enjoyed the attention. Mom and dad scrubbed me down and even used conditioner. I was all shiny and smelled wonderful again. Mom and dad had the lady trim my nails so that they would be ready for my up coming costume contests. My nails still had hot pink polish on them from my contest in May when I was the Play Boy Bunny. The lady used the drummel to remove the old polish. I got a new purple bandana to add to my collection. I pranced when I left the shop.
On Sunday mom and dad noticed a lost dog sign on a telephone pole. One of our neighbors had recently adopted two little Yorkie terriers. I don't think this woman knows a lot about dogs because once when we were walking past, one of them escaped her and almost got hit by a car. She told us that both of them had escaped down on the River Trail. She went after the one who was the most active thinking the other one would stay close. She caught him, turned around and the other one was gone! That evening we went for a walk down the trail to search for her. Mom brought an extra leash. We told everyone we met to please be on the look out. We searched until it was almost dark. Sadly we didn't find her. Mom was worried because there are coyotes and fisher cats around in the woods. The woman said that her dog was also dragging a long purple leash that could have easily become tangles in the branches. We can only hope someone found her and gave her a good home. Very sad.

It was daddy's birthday on Friday. Daddy took the day off work. He called the fire department to come out and inspect our smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. We have to do this before we can sell our house. The whole firetruck came over! It was wild! Mom took me out for a walk while they did the test because the loud noise bothers my ears. Mom said it bothers her ears too! After they inspected our house, they said they were on their way to inspect the house we were buying!

Saturday was the Greyhound Rescue Of New England's fund raiser. It was almost near Aunt Carla's new house. It was a small event but we still had fun. Aunt Carla was there! It was so good to see her. We hung out at her booth. She furminated me for free! That felt good. I didn't have a lot of dead hair because of my bath, but she still got some off. We went for a nice walk along a river. My friends Gill and Skylar where there too. I had fun socializing with all the other greyhounds. The weather looked like it was going to rain so they started the doggie games early. I was in the costume contest. This was my first time competing with my new costume. It was a bit disappointing because there were only 2 other dogs in the contest- and they were dressed alike as a team. I still got to put on my costume and everyone was taking pictures of me. They gave both me and the other two dogs first prize. I got a blue ribbon and a squeaky orange pumpkin toy. Next they held the raffle. Mom put my name on the tickets again. I won a stuffed blue elephant. Come to find out, it wasn't a dog toy, so I gave it to mom. She loves stuffed animals as much as I do. It was a nice day. 

Today we are going to the Pet Rock Festival. I will have more to write about that later.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Feeling Better Today</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/794736</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 26 Aug 2012 16:17:11 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/794736</guid>
		<description>I am much better today. Mom gave me my medicine and it helped my tummy feel better. I was able to ea ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I am much better today. Mom gave me my medicine and it helped my tummy feel better. I was able to eat some breakfast. Mom didn't give me my usual amount, only about half. It was just right. I also had a yoghund treat which is frozen yogurt made for dogs. It has the good kind of bacteria in it. I was able to go for a nice little walk this evening. Not too far but it was just right. I am glad to be feeling more like myself. Mom and dad rented a fancy vacuum cleaner for the day. They cleaned the upstairs hallway where I was sick. It looks really good now and the stains are all gone. It smells a lot better too!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Sick In The Tummy</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/794570</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 25 Aug 2012 12:16:21 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/794570</guid>
		<description>I started to feel real bad on Friday morning. I knew mom and dad were sleeping but I couldn't hold i ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I started to feel real bad on Friday morning. I knew mom and dad were sleeping but I couldn't hold it much longer. I started to cry and cry hoping they would hear me. Mom got up. She was half asleep but she took me out. I ran to where the enchanted forest used to be. It is now a big field where they cut all the trees down. I walked real fast trying frantically to find the right spot. Mom was glad I went in the field because she couldn't have picked it up anyway. I felt a lot better and we went back to the house. Mom gave me breakfast thinking it was just a one time thing and I did eat it all. About 2 hours later I had to go again....and again...and again. I went about 9 times in one day. Mom didn't give me any dinner and I didn't want any anyways. Last night I started to vomit. It was just bile because I hadn't eaten anything. I also started to pant because my tummy hurt. I was drinking water and mom checked me for dehydration. I was OK. I made it through the night OK but this morning I threw up again. I was still panting. Mom checked to see when the vet opened and they opened at 8AM. Mom called right away and got me an emergency appointment. She got daddy out of bed and we went to the vet. I had to have an x-ray done to make sure nothing was blocking my intestines. The x-rays came back OK. I had to get fluid under my skin because by now I was dehydrated. I got all this medication that I have to take. I also got a shot to settle my stomach. When I got home I fell asleep. Mom says that is the best thing for me to do. I can try to have dinner tonight if I feel up to it. We shall see. I'm not panting anymore but I am still tired. Please say a prayer for me and think good thoughts.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>So Much To Tell!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/793044</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 14 Aug 2012 12:35:01 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/793044</guid>
		<description>Mom is behind on my diary again. This time she has a very good reason which I will explain once I ca ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom is behind on my diary again. This time she has a very good reason which I will explain once I catch you up on everything.

A week ago Saturday I went to a Meet and Greet. It was at Especially For Pets in Sudbury. I hadn't been on a Meet and Greet for awhile so it was fun. Mom, dad and I were all alone for the first half. I met a new greyhound friend named Jaguar. He was an older boy but very handsome and in good shape. We hit it off. Later Troy and his mom joined us. It was good seeing Troy. He is such a good friend. 

This past Saturday we all went to visit Grampy in NH. It was Old Home Weekend in Grampy's town. We were also there to celebrate Grampy's birthday too. Before going to Grampy's we stopped at the pet store where mom used to work. She didn't see anyone there she knew but that was OK. I got a huge cookie on a rawhide stick. Mom and dad also stopped for lunch at a new cafe in a town called Exeter, NH. It is not far from where Grampy lives. The Cafe is called The Good Karma Cafe. They had outdoor seating so I could join mom and dad for lunch. It was a nice day but not too hot. The patio area was very nice. The waitress brought me a huge bowl of water and mom gave me my cookie. I didn't eat it though. It was a new place and I didn't feel comfortable eating. I did make friends with the people at the next table though. I kept asking for petting and scratches. Mom said I was being a pest but they didn't seem to mind. Grampy was happy to see us. I got to run in his yard. I also ate my cookie on Grampy's rug and made a mess. Daddy had to vacuum it. Mom and dad didn't take me to the festivities in town this year. First it was very hot out by this time and second, I was very stressed last year. Instead I stayed and kept Grampy company. Mom and dad weren't gone long. Later the humans went out to dinner. I had to stay home this time. That was OK. I had a nice visit

Sunday was a strange day. We left a little before 10:00AM and daddy drove us around in the car. We didn't actually go anywhere much. We did go to a store and daddy ran in to get food and we did make it to the pet store. After that daddy kept driving by our house but we couldn't go inside. There were a lot of cars parked in our driveway. I didn't understand why we kept driving by. Finally we went to another farm stand and daddy got corn. Even after that we couldn't go home yet. Finally we did. We drove around for two hours! I knew some people had been to our house because I could smell them. I didn't know them. Mom and dad left my harness on me and took a quick shower. Then we were back in the car again! This time we went to Greyhound Friends! They were having a party for all the volunteers. I made myself right at home on the dog beds and made my rounds saying "Hello" to everyone. I knew most of the humans there. My friend Fast was there too. It was good to see him again. Later that night Daddy got a phone call. The people who had been in the house made an offer to buy it! The offer was too low so mom and dad did something called a counter offer. Anyway, today I learned that our house has been sold! We are under contract now and the closing will be in September. Mom is very excited. That is why she is behind on my diary. When we move to the new house I will have a huge fenced in back yard that I will be able to run in anytime I want! I am excited too!!!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Dog Park!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/791601</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 2 Aug 2012 15:22:50 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/791601</guid>
		<description>Thank you all for the cakes. It isn't my birthday but I sure do love cake!

Daddy had a vacation d ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Thank you all for the cakes. It isn't my birthday but I sure do love cake!

Daddy had a vacation day from work yesterday. It was nice out so mom and dad took me to the dog park in Wayland, MA. It is about a 20 minute drive from our house. I have been there a few times before. Mom and dad let be off leash the whole time. I was very good and stayed close to mom and dad. If I got too far ahead, mom would call me and I came right away. I met a whole group of nice dogs. I even got to go in a pond to get a drink and cool my paws. I was glad that most of the walk was in the woods. It was cooler. The large open fields where I usually run was too over grown with grass and bushes. I still got plenty of good exercise. When we got back to the car I started to walk into someone yard. Mom and dad called to me and I realized it was time to leave. I jumped right into the car. On the way home we stopped at a farm stand to get corn. I was a happy tired dog!

Daddy had today off work too. Mom just had to teach an exercise class. It is very hot outside today so I couldn't go on a long walk. Mom says it will get cooler soon. Mom and dad spent the day painting and working around the house. Mom and dad have been doing a lot of that lately. Also a lot of strange people have been coming over. I know because I can smell them. Mom says not to get my hopes up, but we may be moving to a new house. We are trying to sell ours. The new house will have a big back yard for me to run and play when ever I want. I am keeping my paws crossed.

I was the daily smiler today on Thebark.com. They said it was supposed to be yesterday, but I am featured today.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I'm The Daily Smiler!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/790987</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 30 Jul 2012 10:53:27 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/790987</guid>
		<description>I hope all my pals have been having a safe summer. Things have been quiet for me lately. Mom and dad ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I hope all my pals have been having a safe summer. Things have been quiet for me lately. Mom and dad went on vacation a few weeks ago. Sarah our pet sitter stayed with us at my house while mom and dad were away. I like Sarah a lot and she takes good care of me. I still really missed mom and dad though. I ma glad they are back home. 

It has been a hot summer so we can't go for long walks. The pavement gets too hot for my feet and I get over heated easily. I did go to the Farmer's Market on Saturday. There were a lot of dogs there. I got to meet them all. After the market I ended up at the groomers to get my nails trimmed. Nothing exciting. Some times when I walk with daddy late at night we see a skunk or two. I still want to chase them but daddy won't let me.

Daddy found a nice house for sale in our town. It has a huge back yard that I could really run in. Mom and dad even made an offer on it and put our house up for sale. Mom was excited but now it looks like we might not buy it. The house itself is perfect. Mom says it is her dream home. The basement, however, is a nightmare! The house has 5 sump pumps to keep the water out. Problem is the basement is STILL wet and now there is mold growing. Mom and dad are now talking with the seller to see if it can be fixed. If not, we won't be able to buy the house. Mom is kind of sad but she said mold can make us sick. I don't want to get sick.

A few weeks ago mom sent my picture in to a web site called The Bark. They post pictures of dogs smiling. Mom got an E-mail saying that I made this weeks smile list! On Wednesday I will be the daily smiler! What an honor. Here is a link you can copy and paste to see me:
http://www.thebark.com/content/weekly-smilers-7-30-12

That's all the news for now. I will write again soon.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>4th Of July Picnic</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/787404</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 4 Jul 2012 15:50:10 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/787404</guid>
		<description>I hope all my pup pals are having a fun, safe 4th Of July today. Please tell your humans to keep you ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I hope all my pup pals are having a fun, safe 4th Of July today. Please tell your humans to keep you in the house during the fireworks tonight. Loud noises can scare us!

Mom, dad and I went to a picnic today! We left a little late and ended up running into 2 detours. Mom thought they were because of parades. We were only 30 minutes late however and things were just getting started. We didn't miss much. Daddy set up my exercise pen and mom filled my water bowl. Dad got the chairs from the car and then mom and dad went to get food. Mom brought me two cookies so I would have a treat too. Mom and dad's friend, Marie, came. She brought her Spanish greyhound (galgo)to the picnic too. His name was Rico. The yard was pretty big and most of the dogs were off leash so mom let me run and play with him and the other dogs for a bit. Then she put me back in the pen. Marie didn't want to walk around with Rico so mom told her that he could stay in the pen with me. I was OK with that and everything was fine for a while. Rico had never been in a pen before and he started to get upset. I was laying down on the ground eating my last cookie. Rico started to paw at the pen. Then another black dog came over. Rico went into a play bow and started bouncing around. He clearly did not know how to behave. I got nervous with all the energy and I corrected Rico. The humans thought we were fighting but no harm was intended. It was all display as I demanded respect and peace in my pen. Marie removed Rico and everything was OK after that. A while later mom let me out of the pen and let me go off leash. I always stay close to mom and dad and I had already had a good run. I walked around a bit and laid on the cool ground by my humans. Mom and dad took me for a walk and then let me go off leash in the yard again. I saw Rico a few times and we were very friendly with each other. I do like him. Mom explained he had never been in a pen before. All my other greyhound friends know how to behave. He is from Spain so maybe he just didn't understand.
It was a fun day. Glad to be back in my bed though. Happy 4th Of July everyone!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I got Blessed!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/785931</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 24 Jun 2012 14:51:27 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/785931</guid>
		<description>Mom found an article in our local paper that said there would be a pet blessing today at a local chu ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom found an article in our local paper that said there would be a pet blessing today at a local church. Mom and dad have never been to this church before but the article said it was open to everyone. We got into the car and daddy drove us there. There were all kinds of animals being blessed. Mostly dogs but I was surprised to see how many cats came. Mom and dad wanted to bring Ben and Charlie but they would have been too frightened. Some of the cats were on harnesses and walked around like a dog. I got to meet a couple of them and we touched noses. There were also a pair of chickens that came and some parrots. The service was very nice. The minister played guitar and people sang songs. It was outside in the hot sun and I started to get too hot. Daddy took me into the shade so I could stay cool. We were still close enough to hear the service. After the main service was over we all got in line to be individually blessed. Mom recorded my blessing on her camera so you can find it in my video library. Especially For Pets was there giving out treats so mom got me some. The offering for the blessing went to two different organizations. One of them was Heifer international. Mom and dad didn't want to donate to them because they send cows and other animals to people in 3rd world countries. Mom explained to me that it seems like a good idea on the surface but if you know anything about raising animals for meat or food you quickly realize that this does more harm to the people and the animals than it does good. I myself was exploited by the racing industry so I personally know how it feels. I wouldn't wish that on anyone. The other organization was Buddy Dog Humane Society so mom and dad donated to them only. I got a red ribbon on my collar after I was blessed. Mom said she will hang it in my window.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>2012 Bark In The Park</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/784883</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 17 Jun 2012 14:44:04 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/784883</guid>
		<description>On Friday mom dressed me up in my new costume. It is all ready except for the wings. Mom says I can' ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ On Friday mom dressed me up in my new costume. It is all ready except for the wings. Mom says I can't tell yet what this costume will be. It is a secrete for now. Daddy took pictures. I will be in two contests in September. Mom wants to try it out and see what the reaction will be. The ultimate goal is to win Gettysburg best in show next year. This year I won funniest but not best in show.

It was a fun weekend! On Saturday we took a ride to NH to visit with Grampy. We went to celebrate Father's day a day early. When Mom had signed us up to do the Bark In The Park walk, she didn't realize that the walk was on Father's Day. We didn't want Grampy to miss his special day, so we went early. We spent the whole afternoon visiting. Mom brought me 3 cookies and I ate all of them on Grampy's rug! It was OK because daddy vacuumed up all the crumbs I left. Mom and dad took Grampy out to dinner. Once again I had to stay home. I don't know why dogs can't go to restaurants. When they got back, mom and dad took me for a nice walk. We went to see the chickens again. They didn't come to the fence this time. I think they might have been scared of me. Mom went up into Grampy's attic. She wanted to see if her old angel wings were still there. She wanted to maybe use them in my latest costume (I'm not going to be an angel). They were there but they were too old. The feathers were all falling off! We took them home but daddy wants to throw them away. Mom agrees. They are falling apart.

Today was the Bark In The Park dog walk for Baypath Humane Society. Mom worked really hard to fund raise a lot of money. Daddy was at work and someone said the company wanted to sponsor mom. The company gave her $500 for Baypath Humane Society!!! Mom was SO happy. That put her in the second position for the most money raised by an individual. Mom got $975 for the shelter! The top person raised $1,375. The event was held at a beautiful state park not far from Greyhound Friends. We got there a little early and walked around a bit. They had some booths and vendors. Mom went to register and gave a lady her registration she had printed from the computer. The woman got all excited and said mom was the top fund raiser! Mom explained she was in second place but the woman told mom that the person in first place worked for the shelter so she didn't count! She told mom she was getting a prize! Wow!!! We looked at all the booths and then the walk began. It was a nice day in the lower 70's. It was a perfect day for a walk. I made some friends along the way. The walk went by a lake so I got to take a dip and get a drink. We walked for about a mile or so. When we got back to the event we watched a few dog agility demonstrations. Then they had a contest. daddy took me into the human/dog look alike contest! We won!! We didn't get anything though. It was just in fun. I was getting hot so daddy found me a cool water fountain. It was like humans drink from but it was especially made for dogs! It had running water and everything. The best part was it was nice and cold. I took several drinks. Finally they announced mom's name. I went up with her. Mom got a gift certificate for a 14 pound bag of dog food. They also announced the top team. Everyone clapped for us. After one of the shelter's board members came up to thank us. It was a fun day. I'm tired now. I think I will take a nap!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Walk With Willie</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/783418</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 7 Jun 2012 09:13:17 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/783418</guid>
		<description>Mom changed my profile picture! Take a look! It was taken at Greyhounds in Gettysburg during the spe ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom changed my profile picture! Take a look! It was taken at Greyhounds in Gettysburg during the speed run. They had a radar gun on me to clock my speed. It was all for fun. I was so happy that I was literally flying! Mom loves the pure expression of joy on my face.

Yesterday I went for a walk with my friend, Willie. Mom's friend, Jen is Willie's mom. They will be moving to a new house soon. They won't be very far away though. Only as far as my Vet. We had a nice walk around the neighborhood. Mom didn't want to go down the river trail because there are too many bugs out right now. When we got back from our walk, both Willie and I got a cookie. Then Jen put my new costume on me for a final fitting. It looks really nice and it is comfortable to wear. Mom says there is a dog event in September that will have a costume contest. I guess we are going. Mom said that Shorty Rossi from Pit Boss and Hercules will be there. Mom wants to meet them. I wouldn't mind meeting Hercules myself! I like those pit bull boys!!

Mom and I are doing a walk next Sunday to help shelter dogs. It is a shelter called Baypath Humane Society in Hopkington, MA. It is a no kill shelter. Here is a link if any of my pup pals would like to sponsor us in the walk: https://www.gifttool.com/athon/MyFundraisingPage?ID=1455&AID=2022&PID=280686&Preview=Y
You can just copy and paste this into your browser. I will write up a full report on the walk after we walk it. Later!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Memorial Day Hike and Picnic</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/782072</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 28 May 2012 11:33:28 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/782072</guid>
		<description>I got to join mom and dad's Meetup group for a hike and picnic today. Mom and dad didn't have to wor ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I got to join mom and dad's Meetup group for a hike and picnic today. Mom and dad didn't have to work today because it is Memorial Day. Mom says it is a special day to remember the soldiers who were in all the wars. Personally I don't understand anything about war. It is a human thing. I get along with everyone! Mom says she doesn't understand it either. We drove to Minute Man Park which is about 20 minutes from our house. I have been there before so I knew where I was. Most everyone else was late arriving so we had to wait for a bit. Mom sprayed us all down with bug spray. It is a natural bug spray that both dogs and humans can use. It was a beautiful day with lots of sunshine. Once everyone arrived we started our walk. Actually one human got lost and started walking from a different parking lot! We never did find her. There were lots of people walking, jogging and riding their bicycles. There were some other dogs too. I liked that. Mom brought my special water bottle. It opens up into a bowl. I was glad because it was hot outside. Mom gave me frequent water stops and anything I didn't drink she poured on my back to help keep me cooler. We walked about an hour and a half. It was nicest in the shade!

After the hike we drove down the road to the park's visitor center. One of mom and dad's friends named Karen rode with me in the back seat. She had ridden her bike to the park. There was plenty of room for both of us though. At the visitor's center they had picnic tables and a bathroom for the humans. Daddy found a perfect picnic table in the shade. Mom's friend, Victoria had mats so we covered the table with the mat and made a table cloth. They had a band playing music. We got to relax under the trees, eat and listen to music. Mom brought cookies for me to eat. I tried to dig in the dirt but mom and dad told me not too. I had a fun time, but I am really tired now, so I think I will end my diary and take a nap. I hope everyone has a fun and safe Memorial Day!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>The Enchanted Forest</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/781580</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 25 May 2012 06:22:22 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/781580</guid>
		<description>Many of you who read my diary may remember me writing about the enchanted forest. It was a nice litt ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Many of you who read my diary may remember me writing about the enchanted forest. It was a nice little wooded area near my house. Mom and I used to love going there to walk and play. I actually found it one day. Mom didn't realize it was so large. Now it is being destroyed and I am very sad. No one knew who owned the enchanted forest and our neighbor just assumed it was part of her property. Well, last year the owner came forward and decided to build 5 condos there. Nothing happened until yesterday. They are cutting down all the trees and it is horrible. Mom and dad are very upset too and so are our neighbors. We had a nice, pleasant, quiet street. It won't be any more. We feel bad for all the birds, squirrels, opossums, chipmunks, racoons and skunks who used to live there. Many may have even lost their lives. I went to the edge of it with mom this morning. I sniffed around and said my goodbyes.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Greyhound Friends Spring Open House</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/780830</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 20 May 2012 05:55:28 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/780830</guid>
		<description>I knew something was up when mom painted my nails again on Friday. She did both the front and the ba ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I knew something was up when mom painted my nails again on Friday. She did both the front and the backs this time. I really don't like the smell of the nail polish. Even though it is made especially for dogs, it doesn't smell nice. Mom took it slow and did a little at a time. They ended up hot pink!

We left a little after 10:00 on Saturday. Dad stopped at the ATM to get money and mom and I waited for him in the car. Daddy left the air conditioning on because it was already getting hot outside. When we arrived at Greyhound Friends I knew where I was. I got a little excited and pulled mom to the silent auction table. Daddy grabbed my exercise pen from the trunk and followed. There wasn't any canopy for shade so mom and dad made a tent for me. They clipped my blanket over my exercise pen. Mom gave me some cool water. Poor mom and dad didn't have any sun protection. Mom helped set up the silent auction and daddy worked on setting up the raffle. We have worked this table many times before so they know what they are doing. It was all set up and ready to go when the event started. Mom and Dad took me for walks and we checked out all the booths. Mom bought a hat to protect her head from the sun. She wanted a greyhound hat any way. Mom fell in love with one of the pictures being auctioned. It was a greyhound head in an Andy Warhol style design. I must admit it was very nice. The minimum starting bid was $35 so mom wrote her bid. Louise is the president and head of Greyhound Friends. Mom told Louise how much she wanted the picture and Louise told her to take it off the bidding table and that she could have it for the $35! Dad wrote out a check and the picture is now hanging in the living room. Aunt Carla was a little upset because she wanted it too!! Aunt Carla is OK with it though. Mom and dad had lunch. They had some nice hummus wraps and veggie burgers. Daddy was getting roasted by the sun so he found an umbrella in the car. Mom and dad shared it for shade. They had a nice dedication at the memorial garden for all the greyhounds who had crossed over to rainbow bridge this past year. They read GT's name. GT doesn't have a memorial brick yet but one has been ordered. Mom says I will have a brick someday many, many years from now. Much to mom's surprise there was already another brick for a different Isis!!! After the memorial ceremony, it was time for the dog show. Mom and dad entered me in best trick. When it came time to announce my trick mom said that I was going to do one of two tricks. I was either going to sing, or really embarrass mom and dad! I was a bit confused by the whole thing. I only sing at home. I embarrassed mom and dad!! BOL! When they gave out the ribbons the announcer said that I got last place but that mom and dad got first place!! Everyone laughed! I got mom and dad to do the trick! I still got a 5th place ribbon. Mom hung it on my exercise pen and I got to rest for awhile. Once the "Find your twin" contest was announced mom started dressing me up for the costume contest. I was a playboy bunny. Check out my photos for a picture! There was a lot of good competition this year. I was up against 6 other dogs. As they announced 6th, 5th etc. Mom was getting nervous. Soon it was down to 2 of us- me and a hula dancer dog. Mom held her breath and they announced second place to.....the hula dancer dog! Mom whispered to me that I had won! Daddy was with Aunt Carla and he said Aunt Carla gasped when she knew I had won!! I got a huge blue ribbon and a box of milk bones!! I was happy to have won but even more happy to be out of my costume. The last event of the day was the raffle. I didn't win anything in the raffle this time. Daddy was relieved since I won just about everything at the last raffle. On the way home we stopped off at the pet store to get our weekly supplies. We were all tired! Mom and dad both got sunburned! It was a fun day! I hope that Greyhound Friends got a lot of donations and that many of my brothers and sisters found their forever homes.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Last Day Of Greyhounds In Gettysburg!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/777847</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 30 Apr 2012 12:49:05 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/777847</guid>
		<description>We had to get up very early yesterday morning. Mom and dad started packing all of our stuff back int ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We had to get up very early yesterday morning. Mom and dad started packing all of our stuff back into suitcases, boxes and bags. The morning festivities started at 9AM as well, so there was some tension in the room. Mom and dad made me wait in the room while they brought our things to the car. They had a quick breakfast of cereal that they had bought the night before, and we all got into the car. Daddy drove to the recreation field where the events where taking place. Despite our best efforts to get there right at 9 we were about 15 minutes late. The speed trials were already going on. Aunt Carla, Uncle Jeff, Gill and Skylar where already in line waiting. Mom and dad had a hard time finding the entrance because things where set up backwards from last year. Daddy jogged with me to the opening in the fence and we got in line. We got to watch Gill and Skylar run. Both are a little chunky now that they are retired but they both did very well. Gill clocked in at 34 mph and Skylar surprised everyone by running 36mph. When it got close to my turn, mom walked down to the end of the run. She wanted to video tape me. Daddy ran down to the end too and a man held my collar. They used the squawker for me. I was trained to run to it at the track. I ran fast but I only got a speed of 29 mph. The man with the speed gun said it was because I ran too high off the ground causing me to lose speed. I ran headlong into 2 people, however! They had to catch me. Uncle Jeff bragged about Skylar the rest of the morning! Mom did get me on tape but the angle was strange. You can see me though. After the speed run it was time for the rainbow bridge/pet blessing ceremony. We all gathered in the picnic area. It was a beautiful service. The minister had everyone write down the names of pets to be honored and remembered. Both Aunt Carla and mom wrote down GT's name. Mom also added two other special companion animals from years ago- Blitz and Duke. Mom and aunt Carla cried. We did a group roo as a finale! Next it was time for the fun run. Me, Gill, Skylar and 3 other dogs I didn't know got to play in a fenced in baseball field. The only bad part was that we had to wear muzzles. Mom said it was a rule even though I don't need one. I spent a lot of my play time trying to rub my muzzle off. It didn't work. By now it was 11:00am and time to head home. We had a long drive ahead of us. We stopped several times to stretch our legs and mom and dad stopped at the same Subway they did last year for a veggie sub. The last rest stop we went to was in our own state of MA. It has a little dog park I like to go to. I was there with daddy when another greyhound joined us! Mom and dad thought they might be coming from Gettysburg too, but they weren't. It felt good to be home. I ate a good supper. Mom was relieved because I didn't eat well on the trip. I was too excited. I ate only about 1/2 what I normally eat.

Mom and dad both took today off of work to relax. Mom took me for my walk early and then had me get into the car. Wouldn't you know it- I ended up at the vets!! It was time for my annual check up. I had to get a rabies shot too! They took something called a titer to see how my immunity was. If it is high enough I won't have to get booster shots for the other things. I'm keeping my paws crossed. I weighed only 66 pounds. I lost 2 pounds from not eating much this weekend. The vet said she wasn't worried about it and that I looked great! Mom said she probably gained the two pounds I lost! She said I can have them back!! I think she was joking!! Anyway It was a greyt vacation.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Second Day of Gig!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/777561</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 28 Apr 2012 14:20:41 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/777561</guid>
		<description>We had to be at the event a little earlier today. Festivities began at 10:00. I was so excited I cou ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We had to be at the event a little earlier today. Festivities began at 10:00. I was so excited I couldn't eat my breakfast. I just wanted to be out there with all the other dogs. After mom took her shower she painted my nails hot pink!! She said it was for my costume. She only painted the front feet. I put up with it. I must admit that I did get a lot of complements on them! We got to the vendor area and Aunt Carla and Uncle Jeff joined us along with Gill and Skylar. We walked around the booths again. Mom bought a greyhound mug. It is hand made and very nice. Mom also bought a leash to match one of my new collars, I usually wear a harness but collar and leash was more practical today since I would have to get dressed up in my costume. At 11:00am it was time for the parade. We all marched around the shoppes. People watched and took pictures. At the end we did a group roo. Aunt Carla wanted to go into a store so we did. I like going in all the stores that I usually can't go into. It was getting close to the costume contest time, so we headed back to the registration table. Mom and dad got me into my costume. I wore my workout outfit but this time mom embellished it a bit! She had bought this crazy wig for me to wear. It was a multi-colored wig with a mohawk! The silly thing even flashed. Mom stuffed it with a T-shirt so that it would fit my head better and the mohawk part would stand up. I was a "punk rock workout girl"!!! People really seemed to like it. Gill was dressed up as Hugh Hefner and Skylar was a playboy bunny (Skylar is a boy!). Mom was going to enter me in funniest but they said she could enter both funniest and most creative so we did both. My new friend, Claire was dressed up as a picnic! We all had to parade around for the judges. People laughed and took pictures of us. Then we had to stand in front of the judges so they could make their final decisions. First they juged Most Creative. Third place went to two dogs dressed up at greyhound buses. Gill and Skylar got second place! They got a ribbon and a dog toy. My new friend Claire won first place! I didn't win anything in most creative. That was OK because mom wanted me in funniest any way. First they chose third place. It wasn't even a greyhound- it was a lab with a monkey on his back! Then they announced second place- a dog dressed up like Harry Potter. When they announced first place I heard my name!! I won!! I got a blue ribbon and a gift bag with a stuffed squeaky bone, portable water bowls, a pet place mat and a sponge shaped like a dog bone for mom to use to wash my bowls out! There were two other categories in the show as well. Those categories where most patriotic and best civil war (After all we are in Gettysburg). All the first place winners then had to go before the judges for the best in show award. My friend Claire won! She got a huge trophy. I was happy for her. I was also happy to get out of my costume! We had a few minutes before the first lecture that mom and dad wanted to attend so we brought my costume, winning goody bag and mom's mug back to the hotel room. Once again we went back and forth. We went to a lecture on the Spanish galgos. It was interesting but I napped. The second lecture was cancelled because the speaker had a family emergency. Daddy wanted to go into the kitchen store because I had won a $5 off coupon in my winning goody bag. Daddy likes kitchen stuff so we bought a few things. After that we went to check out the raffle winners. On our way there a man with a microphone announced that someone had left a dog locked up in their car and the dog was in distress. That made mom very angry. One of the vendor ladies got very angry too. Mom and the vendor lady rushed over to the car to try to help. The police was called too. By the time they found the car the woman had returned and assured us her dog was OK. Mom and the vendor lady gave her dirty looks. Even though it is not a hot day outside, cars can get warm and stuffy very fast. We went back to the registration table to check the raffle winners but we didn't win anything. Mom was surprised because I usually win at raffles. Guess my mojo was spent all on the costume contest! Wouldn't you know it, daddy wanted to go back to the hotel again to drop off the kitchen stuff. I must have walked 10 miles this weekend going back and forth from the vendor area to the hotel!! Then, you guessed it- back for another lecture. This one was on neurological disorders in greyhounds. I was so tired I just slept. Mom got a brain. Not a real brain! It is a rubber brain that you can squeeze when you feel stressed out. We are back at the hotel now. I am sleeping on the floor. Mom says I can rest a few hours and then we will be going to the social again tonight.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>First Day Of GIG 2012</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/777481</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 27 Apr 2012 19:47:52 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/777481</guid>
		<description>A little before noon we headed out to where the tents where. It was very cold and windy out so daddy ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ A little before noon we headed out to where the tents where. It was very cold and windy out so daddy ran back to get my fleece jacket. Mom and I walked to meet daddy. I was glad to have my jacket. We had to stand in line to get our registration package. I got a lot of goodies including two new stuffed toys. One is a pink seal and the other is a blue dog. Since we had bags of stuff,we walked back to the hotel again to drop them off. Mom didn't want to have to carry every thing around. Mom and dad made me take the elevator. Another dog rode up with me so that helped a lot. I'm starting to get used to the "room that moves". Then it was back to the main event we went. We got a lot of exercise walking back and forth. We looked at all the booths. Mom looked at the everything, trying to find me more Egyptian themed collars. She found two! I am wearing one of them now! Mom and dad both bought new sweat shirts. They wore them along with the sweat shirts they were already wearing! That was how cold it was outside! The wind made it feel even colder. The animal communicator was there again this year. Mom and dad had her talk to me again. I like her a lot. She understands me. We had a nice talk. Mom and dad bought me some yummy cookies and treats! I'm not eating much because everything is strange here and I am also very excited.I am eating the treats though! Next it was time for the greyhound games. I was in the "dress your dog" contest with daddy. Daddy didn't do very well! He couldn't get the shirt on me. Daddy gave up! Mom said he should have put it over my head and THEN got my legs in. It was all in fun. Mom and dad got hungry so they went over to the shoppes to a place called Quizno's. While daddy ordered sub sandwiches, mom and I went into a clothing store. It was actually MY idea to go into the store. Mom found a pair of pants she liked on sale. After they ate, mom went back and bought the pants and 2 shirts! Wouldn't you know it, we walked back to the hotel AGAIN to drop off the bag! Back and forth was making me tired. It was almost time for the Jean,animal communicator, to give her talk so we headed over to the lecture room. I fell asleep on the floor. A lot of other dogs napped too. I didn't want to leave because I was so tired. During the lecture daddy's phone went off so he left to answer it. It was Uncle Jeff and Aunt Carla. They were checking into their hotel. Daddy told them that he would call after the lecture and we would all make plans. After the talk we walked around the booths to see if Uncle Jeff and Aunt Carla were still there. The vendors were packing up for the day so Aunt Carla and Uncle Jeff went back to their hotel. We planned a time to meet for dinner. We had time to kill so mom and dad took me miniature golfing!!! That was very interesting. Mom and dad tried to hit a colorful ball into a hole with a stick. I watched them but I couldn't play. They had fun though. Daddy won. We went to dinner after that. They had an outdoor area so I could go to dinner. There were a lot of dogs there. Gill and Skylar came but Gill was uncomfortable because there were too many dogs. For me, the more dogs the better. Gill likes his space. Gill and Skylar went back to wait in the car. I socialized with all the other dogs. I even made myself at home on someone else's blanket. Daddy went and got my blanket but I stayed where I was. The dog whose blanket I stole laid down on mine. It was all good. Mom, dad, Aunt Carla and Uncle Jeff ate. Mom and Aunt Carla were getting very cold. They were glad to get the bill paid. Next we went to a social at one of the hotels. I went to this last year. I had to say "Hi" to every dog there. Then I laid down on a blanket and went to sleep. Skylar and Gill came to the social too. Skylar laid down next to me and somehow my face ended up under Skylar's butt! I was too tired to care. The humans got a kick out of it and they were taking pictures. I'm sure they will end up on Facebook and probably here on my Dogster page. Some of the dogs I met where from Spain. they are called Galgos. They are smaller than us. They are not used for racing but for hunting. They don't have it any better than us greyhounds. When they can no longer hunt many are often killed by hanging! The dogs who were good hunters are killed quickly but those who were not good are made to suffer. They are hung low enough so that their hind legs barley touch the ground. This makes their deaths go slow and painful. There was one dog there who was saved just in time! He still has the scars on his neck from the ropes. He is doing well with his new loving mom and everyone was giving him lots of love. Mom hates what some people do to us. Well, I am going to call it a night. I'm exhausted! Until tomorrow, Good night!! zzzzzzzzz]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Back In Gettysburg!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/777351</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 27 Apr 2012 05:10:32 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/777351</guid>
		<description>We left yesterday morning at 8:30AM. It was a long drive but smooth sailing the whole way. Daddy sai ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We left yesterday morning at 8:30AM. It was a long drive but smooth sailing the whole way. Daddy said it took us about 7 1/2 hours to get here. I just laid down on the back seat. We stopped at several rest areas to stretch our legs and take care of business. Mom and dad played music most of the way to help the time go faster. The minute we pulled into the hotel parking lot, I saw the other greyhounds!! It was like a family reunion. I had to say "Hi" to every single one! We went into the hotel to check in. They even had a sign in the door welcoming all the dogs. In the lobby I got to meet about 5 more. Mom and dad got me to ride in the "room that moves". I didn't realize it until it was too late!! They tricked me!! Our room is amazing! Much better than the one we stayed at last year. We have a little living room and separate bedroom area. There is even the perfect place for my bed right next to mom and dad! It is very nice. After daddy rested for a bit, we took a walk around the outlet shoppes. We are SO close to the main event area that you can see the tents from out hotel room window. Many of the stores had greyhound welcome signs posted. That means I could go into those stores! I went into 2 stores that sold clothing, a book store and a really cool store that sold crafts. I met other greyhounds and their humans as we walked along. I had to stay in the room while mom and dad went to get dinner. When they got back they got ready to take me for a walk. Even though we are on the 3rd floor, I insist on the stairs! No more rooms that move!! We had just entered the stairwell when mom looked out the window. It was pouring outside!! The wind was blowing too!! We went back to our room and waited until the storm passed. To say I am excited to be back in Gettysburg would be an understatement. I had a hard time finishing my dinner!! At 1AM I started whining. Mom couldn't sleep. Daddy took me out to go potty. I really didn't have to go! I only wanted to see other dogs!!! To my surprise there weren't any!!! They were all in their rooms sleeping. I used the bathroom anyway and went back inside.I settled down and finally fell asleep. Humans claim that we animals don't anticipate or think about the future. That of course just isn't true. I know where I am and I am thinking about the events that today will bring- and I am very excited!! This morning mom took me out for potty. I met some really nice greyhounds.Mom chatted with the man who adopted them. We are back in the room now. It is time for daddy to get up and for me to have breakfast. I will write more later. Stay tuned!!]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Visit To Aunt Carla's</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/775696</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 16 Apr 2012 11:30:17 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/775696</guid>
		<description>Saturday Afternoon mom, dad and I got in the car and headed to Aunt Carla's house. We had to make a  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Saturday Afternoon mom, dad and I got in the car and headed to Aunt Carla's house. We had to make a few stops before though. First we had to go to Whole Foods. That is a grocery store. It was a hot day outside so mom stayed in the car with me while daddy ran in. We kept the air conditioner on so we wouldn't get too hot. daddy wasn't long. He got pizza making supplies to bring to Aunt Carla's. The next stop was the Petco in Hudson. Mom wanted to pick up dog cookies and look at the fish. The tank still isn't ready for fish yet. We will most likely not get fish until after we come home from Gettysburg. Mom wanted an angel fish but our tank isn't big enough. I guess they grow very big! We are getting fish called platies and mollies instead. They come in many bright colors so they will be pretty in the tank. We finally went to Aunt Carla's after that. This was the first time we had seen Aunt Carla since GT went to the Rainbow Bridge. It was very strange not having him be there. My other friends where there though- Gill, the Italian Greyhounds- Dash, Iggy and Miaya, Uncle Jeff's greyhounds - Skylar and Ninja and Aunt Donna came with Kitty and Kinley. We had a nice party! We dogs got to run and play. Uncle Jeff filled the kiddie pool for us. The humans ate food like they always do. Later Troy and Oscar's mom came. She didn't bring Troy or Oscar because they had been at a meet and greet and they were too tired. It was a nice time. Later mom and Aunt Carla started going over our costumes for Gettysburg and Greyhound Friends Spring Open House. I will have a different costume for each event. I will be wearing my workout outfit to Greyhounds In Gettysburg as I haven't competed there with it yet, and I will be going as something called a Playboy Bunny to Greyhound Friend's Open House. The ideas humans come up with!!!
Mom says we leave for Gettysburg in 10  days!! I can't wait!! I had SO much fun last year. This year will be even better because Aunt Carla, Uncle Jeff, Gill and Skylar are coming too!!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Photo Shoot</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/774300</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 8 Apr 2012 10:14:25 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/774300</guid>
		<description>I hope all my pup pals are having a very Happy Easter, Passover or Spring Celebration today! Thank y ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I hope all my pup pals are having a very Happy Easter, Passover or Spring Celebration today! Thank you everyone for all the wonderful Easter Eggs in my special gift box!

Mom, dad and I went to the pet store near our house yesterday. I thought it was going to be a regular shopping trip but I was wrong! Mom got all the food and then we went into a section of the store that I had never been in before. Mom was looking at the fish supplies for the tank we won in the raffle last week. Mom only bought a thermometer as she didn't care for any on the decorations there. A few minutes later the manager of the store came in. He wanted to take pictures of me with the dog food I had won in the St. Patrick's Day contest. He wanted pictures for the store's newsletter. Mom and dad knew about it!! We all had to pose for the camera with the dog food bags. Later, when mom was on the store's website there I was right on the home page!! It was a picture of me in the St. Patrick's costume announcing that I had won. Mom will put it on my dogster page. Later that morning mom and dad got the fish tank all set up. Mom and dad went to another pet store that specializes in fish. They got nice decorations and got the filter and the bubble wand working. Mom is still waiting for the heater. It was out of stock and was back ordered. It should arrive early this week. Then mom has to do something called "cycling" to make sure there is good bacteria in the tank to keep the fish healthy. It may be a week or two before we can get the fish. After the tank was set up, we all got into the car again. Daddy drove me and mom to Grampy's house. Daddy went to his mom's house to pick up things he had stored there. Grandma is selling her house soon. Mom and I had a nice visit with Grampy. Mostly I just slept but mom brought two cookies for me to eat. I was careful not to leave too many crumbs on Grampy's rug.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Easter Palooza!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/773081</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 1 Apr 2012 05:33:24 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/773081</guid>
		<description>Yesterday was an incredible day! After my noon walk we all got into the car and drove to a pet store ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yesterday was an incredible day! After my noon walk we all got into the car and drove to a pet store that I had never been to before! It was a Pet Source just like the one we go to every week but this one was much bigger. Daddy had a hard time finding a place to park the car. When we got inside there were lots of people and all kinds of animals. Most were dogs but there were even cats, guinea pigs, fish and rabbits! There were tables set up all over the store with different samples, services and raffle baskets. We walked around a bit and suddenly I saw the biggest rabbit I have ever seen! This rabbit was about 6 feet tall and taller than daddy! Mom said it was the Easter Bunny. Next thing I knew, I was standing in line to get my picture taken with him! Yikes! This was one bunny I wasn't going to chase!! Daddy had to pick me up and put me on a platform next to this giant rabbit. To add insult to injury, mom put bunny ears on me! I was a little nervous but after a few pictures I relaxed. Mom and dad were happy and I took some good pictures. I wasn't afraid after that. This bunny didn't smell anything like a bunny. He smelled like a human! The photographer told us it would take a few minutes for the photos to be developed on the computer and to come back in 20 to 25 minutes. Mom decided it was a good time to get our shopping done. They were offering 20% off everything in the store. On our way to shop I got some treats. My favorite Carnivore Kisses were being displayed. Despite being a little stressed I ate them. Next I got my nails trimmed. The lady trimming the the nails were very nice and I stayed calm. We got our supplies and went to the checkout line to pay. As we were standing there a man on a microphone said he was going to announce the winner of the St. Patrick's Day contest I was in! Mom was excited. He said there was one very clear winner and was excited about it. Next thing I knew he said "The winner is Isis!!" I won!!! I had to go up with mom to the man and everyone clapped for me. I won 3 giant bags of dog food for Greyhound Friends! Thank you to all my pup pals here on Dogster that voted for me!! The fun didn't stop here though!!! Mom and dad got raffle tickets. We actually got a lot of raffle tickets. We got 10 tickets for having my picture taken with the Easter Bunny, 3 for the pet food we bought and 5 for me winning the contest. The raffle prizes were nice but nothing that mom really wanted. Mom put most of the tickets in a 20 gallon fish aquarium, a gift basket with a large dog bed and she put one ticket in a supply of wild bird food. We hung out at the store while various contest went on. The children had an Easter egg hunt. They had a cutest bunny contest and critter races for small animals. Next they announced the fashion show. Wouldn't you know it, mom started dressing me in the exercise costume that her friend Jen had made for me. If you remember I won with this costume at Greyhound Friend's fall open house last year. Other dogs were dressed up too. I had to wait for them to call my name and mom and I had to walk the runway! It was a bit embarrassing. The things we do for our humans!! Anyway, I tried to be a good sport about it. There were about a dozen contestants. I ended up winning the funniest costume! I got another huge gift basket! I was very happy when mom took the costume off. What a relief!!! The next and final event of the day was the drawing for the raffle. When they choose the winner for the giant aquarium, it was mom!!! Looks like we are getting fish!! We didn't win the dog bed but that was OK. I have a really nice one that I love. Mom told dad that she thought she put one ticket in the bird food. Seems that she did, because she won it! It was a comical ride home! The truck of the car had the aquarium stand in it, the back seat floor was filled with bags and mom was sitting in the front seat with a huge aquarium in her lap! What a day!!!

Today I went to Horn Pond in Woburn with Greyhound Adventures. Horn Pond is one of my favorite walks! I made sure that I greeted every single dog there. It was a beautiful day. It started out cool so I wore my fleece jacket. By the end of the walk it had warmed up to the point that I didn't need it any more. We saw ducks and geese. Lots of flowers are starting to come up. We had about 30 greyhounds on the walk. It was nice seeing all my friends. What a wonderful weekend it was!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>St. Patrick's Day Contest</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/771961</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 24 Mar 2012 18:56:42 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/771961</guid>
		<description>My picture is finally posted on a contest web site. I guess the pet store couldn't decide who the wi ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My picture is finally posted on a contest web site. I guess the pet store couldn't decide who the winner was so they are having people vote. Here is the link to the voting page: http://www.petsource.biz/constantcpics/WEBSITE_TEST/DRESSPETIRISH-2012.html
All the names are listed in alphabetical order along the left hand side of the page. You will see a row a shamrocks with names in them. If I win, I will be donating $175 worth of dog food to Greyhound Friends! Greyhound Friends is such a wonderful organization and they have found many dogs wonderful forever homes. Mom thought it would be nice to donate the food if I won and I agree! Thanks in advance to all my pup pals!!

For a voting link,please go to "Comments" or copy/paste the link above.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My Friend Went to The Rainbow Bridge</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/771117</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 19 Mar 2012 09:04:43 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/771117</guid>
		<description>It is with a heavy heart that I write my diary today. Yesterday I lost a very good friend. You may h ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It is with a heavy heart that I write my diary today. Yesterday I lost a very good friend. You may have remembered that I had asked for prayers last year for Aunt Carla's Greyhound, GT. He had a raging infection in his abdominal cavity and had to have major surgery. He pulled through and was doing well until about a month ago. He started to have problems breathing and was coughing up blood. He was diagnosed with pneumonia and was put on antibiotics. He seemed to be doing better until Saturday night. Aunt Carla came home to find him in respiratory distress. She rushed him to Tufts Veterinary Hospital at 3 in the morning! The doctors put him in an oxygen tent but he still couldn't breath! They made the decision to put him on a ventilator so the machine could breath for him. Aunt Carla called my mom and mom and dad rushed down to Tufts yesterday afternoon. GT was sedated and in ICU. GT's doctor was still hopeful. Mom and dad both said prayers and gave him Reiki. It was hard seeing him like that. I wasn't allowed to go but mom kept me posted on his condition. Last night around 8PM, Aunt Carla called to say that GT had just passed away. I felt him go and let out a howl that scared mom and dad. I will miss my friend. We will all miss him very much. You can see GT in 2 of my video's.

On a happier note, I was in another contest again. I haven't heard who the winner was yet. The pet store near our house was having a "Dress Your Dog For St. Patrick's Day" contest. I don't have anything green except one bandana that has watermelons on it. That wasn't very St. Patrick's. Mom and dad bought me a head piece that had shamrocks sticking up like antenna. I looked more like a bug than a dog. They also bought me a shamrock necklace. Everyone at the store made a fuss over me and took my picture. They said I was the best one they had seen all day and that most dogs just came in with green collars on. I am competing against 3 or 4 stores so we shall see. Daddy took pictures so I am sure they will be posted on my Dogster page soon. Mom and dad are too upset right now to think about it.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Meet And Greet</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/769139</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 7 Mar 2012 07:59:26 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/769139</guid>
		<description>Mom got her tickets in the mail on Saturday! They came the day after her birthday! Mom said that was ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom got her tickets in the mail on Saturday! They came the day after her birthday! Mom said that was a great birthday present. There was a note included with the tickets. They wanted a picture of mom with the tickets to be posted on Facebook. Mom included me in the photo. She said that without me, she would never have won. Mom put it on my Dogster page too!

On Sunday we went on a meet and greet. I got to see Johnny B and Sonie. We haven't been on a meet and greet for a while because of mom and dad's schedule. I had fun. I met a new friend named Hanna. She came with her mom. Bronson stopped by for a while too. It was good to see him. We got some donations for Greyhound Friends, but the best part was that we got to meet a couple who was interested in adopting a greyhound! They came just to see us. They asked a lot of questions. I hope they do adopt. 

The weather is getting nicer now. Mom hopes all the snow melts. It is already up to 50 degrees outside. Tomorrow they say it will be the the 60's. Mom has tomorrow afternoon off, so we have a long walk planned. Spring is coming fast. We were very lucky this Winter. We really only had the one snow storm.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Mahna Mahna update!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/768086</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 29 Feb 2012 18:18:49 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/768086</guid>
		<description>Mom was up in the computer room when she started screaming. She came running downstairs and almost s ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom was up in the computer room when she started screaming. She came running downstairs and almost scared me half to death! She was jumping all around and screaming. Then she ran to the cookie box and gave me an extra cookie for no reason at all. She kept saying "Thank You" to me. Seems that everyone whose video made it into the main video won tickets! Mom and Dad will see John Edward when he comes to Boston in November.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Mahna Mahna Contest</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/768012</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 29 Feb 2012 10:28:55 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/768012</guid>
		<description>Some of you may be wondering about my new video of me singing the Muppet's song &quot;Mahna Mahna&quot;. Mom t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Some of you may be wondering about my new video of me singing the Muppet's song "Mahna Mahna". Mom took it to enter a contest. The world renown psychic, John Edward, was having a contest. He used to have a TV show called Crossing Over that mom used to watch years ago. She sent my video to John and he included it in the final video! If you would like to see it, it is on YouTube. Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9nvtJmKhZ9o&context=C381fa6dADOEgsToPDskI4q6LmBCH6YdAPIAhzH9Zj
I come in at about the one minute mark. I also appear at the very end. The whole video is very funny and I think you will enjoy it. There are other dogs in the video too, but I am the only non-human actually singing!
Mom was hoping to win tickets to see John when he comes to Boston. I don't think the winners have been announced yet so mom still hopes that we won.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Aunt Carla's Party!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/766432</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:58:58 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/766432</guid>
		<description>Mom has two heads! At least she does when she takes me out for my walks! It is the darnedest thing!  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom has two heads! At least she does when she takes me out for my walks! It is the darnedest thing! Mom came home with daddy one day and she had two heads. I couldn't stop staring! I even jumped up a little to get a better look and a sniff. Mom says it is just a hat. It took me a while before I believed her. Mom says that a lot of people are wearing animal hats. Mom had a cow. It still freaks me out sometime. Mom says that two heads are better than one!

On Saturday we went to Aunt Carla's house. She was having a house warming party for her new house. It was a long drive but it was worth it. I had been there only once before but I knew where I was. There were lots of cars and lots of people. I knew quite a few of the humans there. Most smelled like greyhounds and they volunteer at Greyhound Friends! I got to play in aunt Carla's big back yard for a while. Mostly I hung out inside with the other guests, Gil and Fast. Fast is fast!! We had a good run around the yard. I can see why his name is Fast. I was interested in the food table but mom told me to "Leave it". I did. I'm good about that. Louise Coleman came to the party. She started Greyhound Friends many years ago. She said "Hi" to me. We had a fun time.

Today was what daddy called a "Holiday". He said it was to honor presidents. Because of that he didn't have to go to work. Mom only had one class to teach so she wasn't gone very long this morning. In the afternoon, mom and dad took me to the dog park in Weston! There were lots of dogs there today. I did a little running but not full out. My leg was still sore from last night. I got a cramp in my bad leg (The one that I broke on the race track)and it hurt! Mom rubbed it and it is OK now, but still a little sore. I enjoyed being off leash though and played with a few other dogs. Mom, dad and I walked all around the 3 big fields. I got to sniff and explore but I kept mom and dad in sight the whole time. Walking back to the car, mom and dad let me stay off my leash. I love having the freedom. I stay right with them. I even walked back to the car and jumped right in. I'm tired now. I got my cookie when we got home.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Please Boycott Sketcher Shoes</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/763951</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 6 Feb 2012 15:35:59 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/763951</guid>
		<description>I have a favor to ask all my pup pals. Did any of you see the Sketcher's commercial during the Super ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I have a favor to ask all my pup pals. Did any of you see the Sketcher's commercial during the Superbowl last night? I am very upset by it. The commercial showed Sketcher's mascot, a french bulldog named Mr. Quiggly, running a race against greyhounds at the Tuscon Arizona race track. Mr. Quiggly won the race because he had Sketcher's shoes on! The Tuscon track is one of the worst greyhound tracks in the United States as far as abuse goes. The commercial made it seem like it was fun and happy. That isn't the way it is! I am asking that all my friends here on Dogster please consider boycotting Sketcher's shoes. I was so upset that I wrote a letter to Mr. Quiggly himself! Here is what I wrote:

Dear Mr. Quiggly,

My name is Isis. Actually my name wasn't always Isis. I used to be called Rosey Rosette when I was a racing dog at the Seabrook Greyhound Race Track in NH. I just wanted to express my deep disappointment that Sketcher's chose to show that terrible commercial during the Superbowl last night. It seems you have had a very pampered life. You are, after all a celebrity. I wasn't as fortunate. I was forced to race 14 times before I broke 4 bones in my left hind foot. My foot still bothers me today and always will.  I was kept up to 23 hours a day in a tiny cage with only shredded paper for bedding. I never got to play with a toy and I never got good food to eat. The food they gave me was called 4D meat. It was rotten and not fit for human consumption. It was all I got to eat so I had no choice. Thankfully I was adopted when I was 2 1/2 years old. Adjustment after the race track was hard at first. I had never seen a bicycle, a TV, the inside of a house or even a dog of another breed! It took me 6 months to learn to play with a toy! I also didn't know how to climb stairs! I am grateful that I have a patient, understanding new mom and dad. They worked very hard to help me be the dog I am today (I am 5 now). Mom and dad changed my name to Isis so I would feel like a goddess! I love my new name and my new life. I was one of the lucky ones. Most injured greyhounds are killed because they can't make money any more. Some are even left to starve in their cages. It makes me very sad to think that my brothers and sisters are still out there having to suffer like I once did. It hurt me to see that commercial last night. Greyhound Racing is not a sport. It is not fun. It is very cruel. The Seabrook track closed down and I am happy about that. I want to see all the other tracks close down too. Could you PLEASE tell the people at Sketchers not to ever show that commercial again. I would be most grateful. Thank you very much.

Sincerely, Isis]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Greyhound Adventure!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/762827</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:59:06 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/762827</guid>
		<description>I had a fun weekend. I can't believe it is almost February and we still really don't have any snow o ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I had a fun weekend. I can't believe it is almost February and we still really don't have any snow on the ground. It has snowed a couple of times but we only got about an inch or so each time. Within a few days it was all gone. The only snow left is where daddy put it in a pile. Mom and I were able to take a long walk on Saturday. We did part of the river trail on the wooded path. I like that. Mom can't walk me on long walks sometime because she has a bad hip now. The doctor says she has something called arthritis. Sometimes she is OK and Saturday and Sunday were both good days. On Sunday we all got in the car and daddy drove us to the Minute Man Park. I knew where I was right away. Then I saw the other greyhounds! I got all excited. I hadn't been able to go on a Greyhound Adventure in a while. Most of the walks are too far away. This one was nice and close so mom and dad wanted to surprise me. I saw Johnny B, Sonie and Louise! I made it a point to say "Hi" to everyone. Daddy made me walk slower though so mom could keep up. I walked in the middle of the group this time. Usually I like to be out in front. Daddy jogged with me for a while so that was fun. It was great seeing all my friends. Mom says that once daddy is finished with skating we will be able to do more walks. Johnny B's mom is also going to do a meet and greet near our house so I will be able to go to that too.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Aunt Carla's New House</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/758879</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 8 Jan 2012 12:57:11 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/758879</guid>
		<description>Last Monday I got to go back to the dog park again. Daddy had the day off because it was the day aft ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Last Monday I got to go back to the dog park again. Daddy had the day off because it was the day after New Years. Mom had to work in the morning so we went in the afternoon. The weather was nice again. We have been very lucky. Still no snow! That is OK with me. We have even had days that have been quite warm. There weren't too many dogs again this time but I did meet a blue Great Dane puppy. He was 6 months old and already bigger than me. I got to have a really good run all around the large field. I love going there. Mom said we could go again yesterday but we ended up at an even better place.

Daddy got a phone call after he got back from skating. It was Aunt Carla. She invited us to visit her in her new house! It was a long drive because Aunt Carla moved quite a long way away. It was about an hour. Mom said not to worry because we would still be going to visit. I was happy when we got there. Aunt Carla came out to say "hi". Our friends Donna and Jeff where there too. The best part was that Donna had brought her 3 greyhounds, Jeff had his 2 and aunt Carla had Gill and GT! There were 8 of us in all!! We all got to play in Aunt Carla's new back yard. Aunt Carla took a video with mom's camera. You can see it on my page here on Dogster. All the other dogs had muzzles. Sometimes greyhounds can get nippy with each other when we are in a large pack. We don't fight or anything like that. We just can get excited. I don't really need a muzzle. All the humans came out to play with us too. After a while Donna and hounds went home. The rest of us went inside aunt Carla's house. It is very nice and much more relaxed than her old house. I made myself right at home in a dog bed. Mom and dad talked with aunt Carla and Jeff for awhile. Later we all went into the living room and watched a movie. Jeff made a fire in the fireplace. I watched it for awhile. I had never seen anything like it before. I fell asleep during the movie. It wasn't very good. There were no dogs in it. It was something about humans and their mean bosses. Humans like watching strange things. It was a fun day. Aunt Carla has a big guest bedroom. She said that sometime we can come over and stay the night. That would be fun.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Happy New Year 2012!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/757691</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 1 Jan 2012 08:27:11 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/757691</guid>
		<description>I hope everyone had a fun and safe New Years Eve! We had a little party at our house. I knew we woul ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I hope everyone had a fun and safe New Years Eve! We had a little party at our house. I knew we would be having company as soon as mom and dad started cleaning the house. Now don't get me wrong! Mom and dad always have a neat and clean house. It is just when people come over they do a very good cleaning. I knew everyone who came over. The best surprise was that Rosco came with his mom! It was nice to have a friend spend New Years Eve with me. Rosco's mom brought his bed over so he would feel at home. Of course Rosco liked my bed better than his. He laid down in  mine, so I laid down in his. Mom gave us each a cookie. We had fun. At one point I wanted my bed back. I let Rosco know he had worn out his welcome. He got the message and went back to his own bed. After that, we had a nice visit. Later in the evening we went for a walk together with our moms. I saw the ball come down and welcomed in the new year. I'm not sure why humans think it is so special but that's OK. It was fun. Happy New Year!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>A Very Merry Christmas</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/756843</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 27 Dec 2011 12:25:16 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/756843</guid>
		<description>I hope all my pup pals had a very safe and Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, Happy Sol ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I hope all my pup pals had a very safe and Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, Happy Solstice or Happy Boxing Day! Wow! So many celebrations throughout the world! We celebrated Christmas at our house. My big present will be coming in a few weeks. It is the special collar that mom is having custom made for me. It was nice having both mom and dad home with me for the last five days. I enjoy being with my family. Mom had a wrapped present under the tree for me. It had pretty green paper and a bow. A small raw hide candy cane was taped to the paper. That is how mom gave it to me! I wasn't sure what to do. My cat brother, Ben was having a bit more luck with his package. He likes ripping things up. I took my present and carried it upstairs. I was able to get the raw hide candy cane off so I ate it. After that I didn't know what to do. Mom came up and helped me. I got a new full sized raw hide bone! I went back downstairs and mom and dad opened their presents. Mom is like me when it comes to stuffed toys. She really loves stuffed animals. Daddy got one for her for Christmas. When I saw it, I really wanted it! I was trying hard to get it away from mom and dad. I even tried going over daddy's shoulder to get it! Mom and dad were laughing. I finally realized it wasn't for me. Of course I have a whole big basket full of stuffed toys, but I really like moms because it has big eyes. Mom says it is a bush baby. Charlie was afraid of it!

On Monday, we drove to NH to see Grampy. It was nice to see him. Mom brought me a cookie to eat while we were there. I tried not to make crumbs on Grampy's rug. I didn't do too bad. We had a good visit. I got to have a run in Grampy's big back yard. I wish I could have that yard to run in all the time.

Both om and dad are back to work today so I am back on a normal schedule. Mom says as long as we don't get snow, I may be able to go back to the dog park next weekend. I'll keep my paws crossed.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Back To The Park!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/755795</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 22 Dec 2011 18:40:18 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/755795</guid>
		<description>Mom and dad took me back to the dog park again today. Daddy had a vacation day today and mom had the ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom and dad took me back to the dog park again today. Daddy had a vacation day today and mom had the afternoon off too. It was a nice day today- in the 50's. I was able to go without a jacket. Mom brought my light fleece in case I got cold, but I didn't need it. I remembered the path very well and knew just how to get to the field. When we got there it was empty! Last time there were lots of dogs there. This time I was all alone. Daddy let me off my leash. I jogged around a bit and sniffed a lot. I just did some exploring. Daddy tried to get me to run by running around. I did chase him but daddy is very slow and I was able to catch him with just a fast jog. After a while I decided to run. I did a fast sprint all around the big field. I was flying! It felt really good. My bad foot was fine. Just as I finished my run two white German Shepherds came. One of them came up to say "hello". She was a girl dog so I wasn't too interested. I was polite and said "Hello". They moved on down another path with their dad. We were leaving the field when another dog and his mom came. He was a 10 month old puppy. We played for a bit. He was nice. As we were leaving the field, the two white German Shepherds and their dad had looped around. We all walked together back to the parking lot. Mom and dad talked with the German Shepherd's dad the whole way back. We were almost to the parking lot when a Border Collie and his dad came along the trail. The Border Collie and the male German Shepherd didn't like each other. They got into a fight. It wasn't a real fight, just a loud display. I stayed clear.No one got hurt. I had a good time. I'm glad mom and dad brought me back. Mom said she got an E-mail from our MayDOG group. It Looks like we are going to finally get a dog park in our town! It will be 1 1/2 acres, all fenced in and paid for by the Solar Farm who will also be using the land. The owner of the Solar Farm has a dog and is very supportive of the idea. There is plenty of land for both. I don't know when it will be built- probably next summer. I'm glad I will have two good places to run.

Mom ordered me a very special collar today. She has been looking for an Egyptian themed collar for me for over a year now. Since my name is Isis (Isis was an Egyptian Goddess) and my breed originated in Egypt, mom thought it would be cool to have an Egyptian collar for me. It even has hieroglyphics on it! It will take about 2 weeks to be made. I can't wait! Mom says I can wear it when we go to Gettysburg in the spring. I will put up a picture of me wearing it when it arrives.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Parties And Parks!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/755505</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:46:23 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/755505</guid>
		<description>On Sunday, mom, dad and I went to Greyhound Friend's holiday party. Mom and dad made gingerbread coo ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ On Sunday, mom, dad and I went to Greyhound Friend's holiday party. Mom and dad made gingerbread cookies again. The cookies all looked like greyhounds! They had white frosting on them. I didn't get any because they had a lot of sugar in them. I like going to Greyhound Friends. Everyone there loves greyhounds! I met a new friend named Mister. He was one of the kitchen dogs. The kitchen dogs are dogs that need a little more socialization and human contact than the others. They literally live in the kitchen area to simulate more of a home environment. Mister was going to be adopted the next day and mom said he is now in a happy new home. Mister and I hung out together on a bed. He is black like me. I knew a lot of the humans at the party. They are all friends of mom and dad. I made sure to make the rounds and greet everyone. I got lots of ear and chin scratches! Later my friends Fast and Lily came to the party. I had fun. Troy's mom Veronica held my leash so mom and dad could go back to the kennels to see the new dogs. She gave me a piece of cheese!

Daddy had the day off on Monday. A strange woman came to our house. She wasn't strange as in weird or anything, I just never saw her before. She had dogs! I could smell them on her. Daddy explained that we were refinancing our house to get a lower mortgage payment. I am not sure what that means but mom and dad were very happy. The woman told mom and dad about a secrete dog park. After lunch mom and dad took me. First we walked on some wooded trails. I was in sniff mode because a lot of dogs had walked there. We walked over bridges and through he woods. It was nice. We didn't see anyone else though. Finally we came to a large open field. There were lots of dogs there. Everyone of them was a different size and breed. They were all running and having fun. I got so excited. It wasn't fenced in but mom and dad knows that I will stay with the pack and I also like staying close to them. Daddy let me off my leash and I ran all around the field. One of the other dogs was a large mastiff/pit bull mix named Dutch. He was nice but he was a little too rough for me. He weighed almost as much as mom! He liked to wrestle and play rough. I easily out ran him but when I stopped running he bumped into me hard. It hurt my left hind leg and I yelped. That was the foot that was broken when I ran my last race. Mom and dad were worried and decided it was time to leave. They were afraid I wouldn't be able to walk, but I was OK. It only hurt for a few minutes. I am fine. I just have to be careful with that foot. I really want to go back there. It wasn't Dutch's fault. He only wanted to play. Greyhounds just don't play like that. We have thin, delicate bones.

I wish all my dog pals a safe and happy holiday season!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Went To The Dog Wash!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/754871</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 17 Dec 2011 13:09:14 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/754871</guid>
		<description>Mom and dad took me to the dog wash this afternoon. I smell funny now! I thought we were just going  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom and dad took me to the dog wash this afternoon. I smell funny now! I thought we were just going to the pet store like we always do, but I was wrong. Mom said she got a post card in the mail today. Dirty Hairy's Dog Wash had reopened in a new location. I had been to the old location several times before. The women are very nice there, I must admit. One trimmed my nails. Mom said they were way too long. She used the drummel tool on them. Next daddy lifted me into the tub. They have new tubs there. They look like real bath tubs. There was a rubber mat in the bottom so I wouldn't slip. Mom made sure the water was nice and warm but not hot. I had holly berry shampoo and another Christmas conditioner sent. daddy scrubbed one side and mom did the other. I must admit it felt kind of good. I got a lot of loose hair from my summer coat off. I was all nice and shiny. I also enjoyed getting toweled off. I did manage to get mom and dad all wet. I waited until just the right moment and then I shook as hard as I could!!! They deserved to get wet too! Next I got blow dried. It was OK, but I really didn't like the part very much. Mom said I needed to though because it was cold outside. She didn't want me to get a chill. The nice lady there gave me a new holiday bandana. It is very pretty. It is blue so I can see the color. Mom sprayed me with Holly Berry perfume after and also sprayed my bandana. I was prancing when I left! I did feel all nice and pretty. On our way home we stopped off at the pet store. Mom made me wear my reindeer antlers again! The things we dogs put up with to please our humans. The antlers really do seem to please humans for some reason. Every human smiles and laughs and says nice things to me when I wear them. I may never totally figure humans out. I got a cookie and a raw hide candy cane so I guess it was worth it. Glad to be home. Mom says we have a party to go to tomorrow.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Reinhound!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/754135</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 13 Dec 2011 11:14:07 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/754135</guid>
		<description>Sunday was an interesting day. Mom and dad wanted to take me somewhere special for my walk. Mom put  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Sunday was an interesting day. Mom and dad wanted to take me somewhere special for my walk. Mom put my holiday bandana on so I knew it would be special. First we went to the pet store down the street. Mom said my canned dog food was on sale so she wanted to get me some. After the pet store we got back into the car. I thought that this time we were going for the walk. I was wrong. We ended up at Petco Unleashed! Mom went over to where they had all the Christmas stuff. Next thing you know, I am wearing reindeer antlers! All the people who worked in the store were making a huge fuss over me. Mom and dad bought the antlers! Finally we arrived at NARA Park. It had been a long time since we had been there. To my surprise, mom and dad made me wear the antlers- all around the park! Everyone who walked by would stop and talk or chuckle. I must admit I was a bit embarrassed. I tried a few times to shake them off my head, but either mom or dad would just fix them again. I was finally able to take them off when we got back to the car. I was glad that was over!

Last night mom put the antlers back on me again. Daddy got out his camera and tripod and made me stand in front of the Christmas Tree. He took lots of pictures. I was very patient and stood there. Daddy kept telling me to "Work the camera"! Mom gave a huge cookie after. I didn't even have to do a trick to get it! You can see my humiliation in my photo gallery.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I Love A Parade!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/752811</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 5 Dec 2011 04:46:44 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/752811</guid>
		<description>Wow! My diary was chosen as the Dogster Daily Diary Pick today! I am very honored.

Yesterday was  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Wow! My diary was chosen as the Dogster Daily Diary Pick today! I am very honored.

Yesterday was an exciting day. I knew something was up when mom put on my holiday bandana when we went out for our afternoon walk. I usually only wear bandanas on special occasions. Next mom did something even stranger! She attached a huge red and white candy cane ribbon to my harness! It was the kind of ribbon you see on holiday wreaths. Mom and dad took me for a walk down the rail trail. We often go there for quick walks. We got to the end where we usually turn around, but mom kept walking. We walked off the trail onto a side street. I could see a lot of people on the main street. That was where we were heading. We walked to a parking lot that was full of strange things. Lots of children dressed in uniforms, music was playing, lots of cars and people! I was very happy to see my friend, Sammy. I remembered where I was and I knew what was going on. I was going to be in a parade! This was my 3rd one. Mom, dad and I were marching for MayDOG (Maynard Dog Owners Group). My friend Willy and Mom's friend Jen came too! We had about 15 dogs. One dog was pulling a cart with candy canes in it. They were to hand out to people who were watching the parade who had dogs with them. Each candy cane had a card about MayDOG. Suddenly a helicopter started to fly over head. Santa Claus was in the helicopter! I don't know why he didn't come in by sled and reindeer! Guess Santa wanted a more modern approach. All the kids where excited. Jen took her daughter, Anna, to meet Santa. Guess Willy met him too. Anna got a candy cane from Santa. The parade started after that. We followed a marching band and the library. The music was good. We marched to the beat of the drums. It was a beautiful day out- in the 50's. There were SO many people lined up along the street to watch us. It seemed like the whole town had come! We marched all around town, went past mom's work, and then came back to the parking lot. We were near the beginning of the parade this year so we got to watch everyone come back. We saw Santa. This time he was in a sleigh but his reindeer were stuffed! He waved to me! I was a good dog this year. I hope I get something good at Christmas. I was very tired when we got home. I had a long nap in my bed. It was a fun and exciting day!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>A Strange Weekend!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/751688</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 28 Nov 2011 10:57:42 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/751688</guid>
		<description>On Saturday we went to Aunt Carla's house. It was a very strange visit! Gil, GT and the Iggies were  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ On Saturday we went to Aunt Carla's house. It was a very strange visit! Gil, GT and the Iggies were gone! Most of all of Aunt Carla's things were gone. The house was very empty. At first I couldn't run in the yard because daddy and Aunt Carla's friend, Jeff had to move furniture to the drive way. Once they were done, I got to run. I knew inside that it would be my last time there. Mom helped Aunt Carla get her cat in the crate. The other cat was already gone to the new house. Mom got scratched but she is OK. I have always lived in this one house. I found it all unsettling. I was glad to come back home. We all had dinner and then Aunt Carla and Jeff came to our house. Aunt Carla got in my bed with me! That was a bit strange too. All the humans went to see a movie called Twilight. It was about vampires and werewolves. I think I would like the wolves.

After my noon walk on Sunday, mom and dad started to put colored lights all around the outside of the house! It looked very nice when I went for my early evening walk. I like the blue tree. Dogs can see blue, green and yellow. Mom said there is a color called red, but I can't see that one. It was still very pretty. Mom has a lighted deer on the lawn. It looks like a dog with things coming out of its head. It makes mom happy though, so I like it too.

Today I got to go for a long walk with my new friend, Willy. He is the corgi who came to my birthday party. His mom is my mom's friend, Jen. We had a nice walk. I must admit he walks pretty fast for having such short legs. He is a very happy little guy and I had a lot of fun. Well, time for a nap now. Mom says something exciting will happen next weekend so I have to rest up!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Happy Thanksgiving!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/751332</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 26 Nov 2011 06:13:49 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/751332</guid>
		<description>I hope all my pup pals had a safe, fun and delicious Thanksgiving. I know my Thanksgiving started of ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I hope all my pup pals had a safe, fun and delicious Thanksgiving. I know my Thanksgiving started off in a very nice way. Mom took me for my early morning walk. I had just finished my business and started to walk up our street when I saw him. He was a very handsome boy! I got to meet him. His name is Blue. He is an Australian Shepherd/ husky cross. We really liked each other. Maybe Blue will help me to get over Copley. Only time will tell. Mom, daddy and I watched the Thanksgiving parade. Mom really likes it, but thought it was getting too commercial. After the parade was a dog show. The hound group was up first so we watched it. The Whippet won! They greyhound wasn't selected in the top dogs. After the hound group was judged we went for a nice long walk. It was a really nice day. After we got back mom and dad started cleaning again. I knew people were coming over. They didn't have to do a lot of cleaning since they did the whole house before and after my party. Daddy's mom and sister came over. Daddy's sister used our kitchen to cook the food. Daddy helped. He is the better cook in the family. The humans ate their food and I laid in my bed. Mom had a surprise for me though! I still had a left over piece of dog cake from my party! When it came time for desert, mom gave me my cake! It was a nice day. Quiet, just the way I like it. For dinner mom gave me Merrick's Thanksgiving Day Feast! It was yummy.

On Friday we went to Bark Friday! It was a huge sale at our pet store up the street. Mom and dad bought all sorts of things and saved $17. After the pet store we all got in the car and drove to grampy's house in NH. I had this awful gas all the way there! Daddy kept rolling down the window and mom kept saying "Oh Isis!" I couldn't help it! When we got to grampy's, mom and dad took me right to the back yard. A dog came out from a house and I got all excited. I ran around really fast and then I did what I needed to do. No more gas! We had a nice visit and watched a movie. Then the humans went out to eat again. I really wish dogs could go too. I had to stay in the house with Blackie. She just hid under the bed. Mom had left me some kibble and 3 cookies. I ate the cookies on grampy's rug in the living room. Mom had to vacuum the rug. I was glad to get home. It was a nice Thanksgiving.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>My Birthday Party!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/750482</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 21 Nov 2011 10:23:05 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/750482</guid>
		<description>On Saturday daddy brought home a huge box. It smelled really good. Daddy said I couldn't have it and ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ On Saturday daddy brought home a huge box. It smelled really good. Daddy said I couldn't have it and put it in the refrigerator. Then mom and dad spent a lot of time cleaning the house. I knew that people were going to come over. Mom even washed both my dog beds. She wouldn't let me eat my cookies in my bed! I must admit there were lots of crumbs in it. Mom said I had 5 cookies worth of crumbs! On Sunday morning the door bell rang. A man delivered another box! This one smelled even better than the first one! Mom and dad left for a little while and came back with balloons. They always smell kind of funny. Then mom and dad did even more house cleaning. After lunch they started making their lasagna. They made 2 of them! Now I really knew that people were coming! I just hung out in my bed and watched. It was a little after 4 when the door bell rang again. It was Julie. She is a friend of ours. She had a bag with her. Mom put it on the glass table that Ben likes to roll around on. A few minutes later, Aunt Carla came with Gil! She had a bag with her too. I was happy to see Gil. He was my boyfriend for a while, but now we are just good friends. Later more people started coming over- and more dogs! Mom's friend, Jen came with her daughter, Anna and their corgi, Willy. This was the first time I had met Willy. He had very short legs! He was cute though. No one made fun of him even though everyone else had long legs. Next Mark came with his new friend, Catherine and her greyhound Roscoe. This was the first time I had met Roscoe too! he looked a lot like Gil. He was very nice and I liked him. Everyone who came brought begs for Ben's table. Some of the bags smelled really good. We sat and socialized for awhile and then the humans all ate food. I never think it is quite fair that the humans get food and we don't! Roscoe feels the same way. He was trying to tell everyone that we wanted food too! We had to wait. Finally daddy got the boxes out from the refrigerator. Everyone sang "Happy Birthday to YOOOOUUU" I started to roo. Daddy made a movie of it. I will put it on Dogster soon. Everyone laughed and then we got to eat! The cake was yummy. It had beef, peanut butter, carrots and liver. The humans had a chocolate cake. Us dogs also got milk bones. It was worth the wait. Next mom opened up the bags. Everything in the bags was for me! I got a lot of toys! Mom put them all in my bed. I didn't have much room left for me! My friend Skylar came late with his dad, Jeff. I got to go out to the yard and run and play with Skylar for a few minutes. That was fun. We all had a great time. I was sad when everyone left. It was a nice birthday celebration.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Today is my Birthday!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/749554</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 16 Nov 2011 04:53:03 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/749554</guid>
		<description>I was born 5 years ago today! Boy, time does fly! Mom sang Happy Birthday to me. I also got a cookie ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I was born 5 years ago today! Boy, time does fly! Mom sang Happy Birthday to me. I also got a cookie with my breakfast! I never get cookies for breakfast!!! When daddy got up he sang to me too. He sang "Happy Birthday to Yooooouuuuu" He got me into what we greyhounds call a Roo. I sang along! It was fun! Mom says that we will celebrate on Sunday. I am having a party!!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Happy Halloween!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/746863</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 15:29:07 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/746863</guid>
		<description>I hope all my pup pals are having a fun and safe Halloween. Remember that chocolate isn't good for u ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I hope all my pup pals are having a fun and safe Halloween. Remember that chocolate isn't good for us!

I have a new bed. It is just like the one that Gill and GT have! Mom's friend Jen (The one who made my costume)gave it to me! Her dog would never use it. It is really comfortable. I love it!

Saturday morning, when mom took me for a walk, we saw something strange in the middle of the road. We went over to investigate and found a dead opossum. I had never seen one before. Mom was very sad because she love all animals. Mom didn't want other cars running over the body so we moved it to the side of the road. After breakfast, mom and dad drove me to Aunt Carla's house. Mom and dad where going to Boston for the day so I got to stay with aunt Carla, Gill, GT and the iggies. I had a lot of fun! I got to be with a pack and run as much as I wanted in the big back yard. Aunt Carla is moving soon, so I won't be able to stay there again. Later in the day it started to rain. Then it started to snow! It is too early for snow. Usually it doesn't snow until after Thanksgiving and it wasn't even Halloween yet! Mom and dad had to drive in it to pick me up from Aunt Carla's house. There were lots of trees and branched in the road. During the night we lost power. It didn't come back on until 8 PM on Sunday! It was getting cold in the house so mom put my light fleece on to keep me warm. Mom and dad had to use flashlights in the house. Lots of people are still without power. We are very lucky that we have our back. Mom and dad bought me some Boston Baked Bonz in Boston. They are my favorite cookies! I got peanut butter crunchies and Pumpkin Pie Muffins! They are real muffins too! Mom entered me in a raffle to win more. I hope I win. I think I will find out tomorrow.

I have been a silly dog lately. Mom and dad bought Ben and Charlie a cat bed a while back. I keep trying to sleep in it! I don't quite fit. The cats always steal my bed to sleep so I think it is only fair! Don't you? Yesterday Ben knocked off mom's unicorn from the book shelf. She has had it for a long time. It is (or should I say was)plastic with fake fur. I tried to eat it! I chewed it to pieces. Mom was kind of upset. She mostly blamed Ben because I could have never reached it if he hadn't climbed the book shelf. Ben is always getting into trouble. I am OK though. Mom and dad kept an eye on me to make sure I was eating and going to the bathroom OK. I am. 
Stay safe!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>The Yard Sale</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/744643</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 17 Oct 2011 14:51:45 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/744643</guid>
		<description>Not too much going on lately. No big doggy events or activities so it has been quiet. I take my usua ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Not too much going on lately. No big doggy events or activities so it has been quiet. I take my usual weekly trips to the pet store and walks around the neighborhood. I know that Copley is gone now. His sent has faded around his house. I stopped looking for him. Maybe I will meet a new true love someday.

On Saturday we went to Aunt Carla's house. She was having a big yard sale. Aunt Carla is going to be moving soon. She has bought a new house. It is further away but mom and dad says we will still go there for visits. Her new house has a huge yard which will be great to run in. She has to get in fenced in first though. I usually don't like going to yard sales, but I was happy to arrive at aunt Carla's house. Mom let me go in the house to be with Gil and GT. Mom let us all outside to run together. It was a lot of fun. GT had an accident near the dog bed, so mom cleaned it up for him. Mom and dad bought a lot of things at the yard sale. Aunt Carla made soup for mom and dad. She gave me a beef jerky treat. It was yummy. I mostly stayed in the house with the other dogs or outside in the yard. I got in a few good runs.

Today I went on a long walk on the river trail. Mom and I took the wooded path. There was dead bird on the path. I stopped to sniff it. It was a big black bird like a crow or raven. It had been mostly eaten. A little further up the trail we saw a garter snake. It was cold outside so the snake was trying to warm himself in the sun. It was a nice walk. We didn't see any other dogs though.

Well, that is all the news for now. As I said, it has been quiet. The trees are starting to fall now, but they aren't very pretty this year. I don't know why. I can tell the seasons are changing because I have to wear my fleece jacket most of the time now.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I Have Lottery Tickets!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/739483</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 19 Sep 2011 09:07:48 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/739483</guid>
		<description>Yesterday was a great day! It was Greyhound Friend's Fall Open House. Mom, dad and I always work the ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yesterday was a great day! It was Greyhound Friend's Fall Open House. Mom, dad and I always work the Silent Auction/Raffle table. It is a long day but I enjoy meeting all the other greyhounds. Mom and dad bring my exercise pen for me to stay in since they have to work at the table. I don't mind because I have a safe place to relax. It was a sunny day so mom and dad hung one of my blankets over the pen to provide me with shade. They use clothes pins and clips to keep the blanket over my pen. It works out well. Mom and dad took turns taking me for walks around the fair. Daddy took me to the large enclosed yard for me to run. I really didn't feel like running that much so I just jogged along with daddy. There were lots of great stuff in the auction this year. Mom bought raffle tickets and put my name on them because I am the lucky one in the family! After a short award ceremony, the dog show started. Mom put me in the baldest butt category! I must admit that my butt is a little bald. It is a greyhound trait and lots of us have it. I always have some hair, but this summer I got pretty bald. Mom decided to enter to see how I did. There were 3 of us entered and thankfully I got 3rd place! the boys were balder!! After baldest butt, mom got me into my new costume for the costume contest. Not many dogs entered this year. Usually there are lots of entries. It was only me and a dog dressed as Lady Gaga! I was dressed as a professional athlete (which I was - I am now retired)I wore one of mom's exercise tops and matching pants. Mom's Friend, Jen, sewed a hole for my tail in the shorts and put a velcro strip on the top to make it easy to get on and off. Mom also put my booties on my back feet to look like sneakers and I had ear phones and an Ipod shuffle! The judges couldn't decide so both me and Lady Gaga won first place! I got a blue ribbon and a long yellow stuffed dog! Mom was very proud! After the contest, we went back to the table because it was almost time to draw the winners for the raffle and auction. Mom bought me a few more tickets. Two of the items in the raffle were highly desired! One was a gift basket that had a beautiful Grammy's Jammies fleece jacket, a stuffed gorilla and a bag pf peanut butter crunchies. The other hot item was a blue stuffed greyhound. Lots of the kids wanted the stuffed greyhound. Several people put in between $20 and $40 worth of tickets in JUST the blue dog or the gift basket! I had about 5 tickets in each one. The first prize drawn was a dog collar and leash. I had a couple of tickets in that one but I didn't win it. The second prize drawn was the gift basket. I couldn't believe my ears when they announced that I had won it!! (It was actually daddy doing the announcing!)I got the beautiful jammies! The next prize drawn was the blue dog. Guess what? I won it!!! Louise Coleman runs Greyhound Friends and she was trying to win the blue dog for her granddaughter. She was one of the many who had put a lot of tickets in that prize. Mom asked me if it was OK with me if we gave the blue dog to Louise's granddaughter, Sophie. I said "Yes" because I was happy I won the gift basket. Mom gave the dog to a very startled Sophie and Louise was very grateful. Well, my winning streak just wouldn't stop! I also won a chew toy, a greyhound calendar, and a T-shirt for mom!! I won 5 things in the raffle! Mom and dad couldn't believe it and daddy was a bit embarrassed because he had to keep announcing my name! We finished up with the auction (Mom got out bid on the two items she had bid on- thank goodness!!) Mom and dad talked and decided to buy me 2 lottery tickets since I was on such a lucky streak! After mom and dad brought me back home, they did just that! I couldn't pick the numbers so mom and dad used my birthday and a few other numbers to make up the required amount. My ticket is hanging on my window by my bed where my ribbons are hung. I will find out if I won on Tuesday. If I win I will buy myself a house with a big fenced in yard! Last night and this morning it was cold outside so I got to wear my new jammies. I look good in it. Daddy had taken lots of pictures but last night his computer drive which had the pictured stored crashed! That wasn't so lucky!! I think the pictures are lost. That is OK though because lots of other people took pictures and posted them on Facebook!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Pet Rock Festival</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/738057</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 11 Sep 2011 14:01:33 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/738057</guid>
		<description>On Sunday mom and dad took me somewhere special to cheer me up from loosing Copley. We went to the P ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ On Sunday mom and dad took me somewhere special to cheer me up from loosing Copley. We went to the Pet Rock Festival in Worcester, MA. We got there just as it opened around noon. I knew where we were the minute we arrived in the parking lot. I was so excited! The first dog I saw was a greyhound named Jack! We paid our admission fee and then enjoyed the festival. There were more dogs and people than last year I think. There were also a lot of greyhounds, whippets and Italian greyhounds. We walked around and saw all the booths. Mom got lots of free samples. We found Greyhound Friends booth and I walked right in and made myself at home. My friends Lilly and Star were there. We also saw my friend Fast and his mom. I have done several meet and greets with Fast. Mom and dad also saw lots of people that they knew. Some where from their greyhound circle of friends and others from their vegan groups. This is a festival that celebrates all animals so no meat is served at the food court. Mom and dad were able to have a good lunch. Aunt Carla came with Maya and we walked around the fair a second time with them. One of Mom's Facebook friends received an award for all the work she does for animals. I also met another Greyhound named Alaska. Her dad is also a Facebook friend of mom. We listened to some of the music as well. It was a wonderful day but I was very tired from all the excitement. It was good to lay down in my bed and nap when I got home.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I Am Very Sad Today</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/737501</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 8 Sep 2011 14:35:09 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/737501</guid>
		<description>Today I had to say goodbye to the love of my life! Mom and I went for a walk down Winter Street last ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today I had to say goodbye to the love of my life! Mom and I went for a walk down Winter Street last week. When we got to Copley's house there was a for sale sign in front. We were both shocked! Mom and dad talked to Copley's dad a few days later and he told us that he was taking a new job in Florida. They were leaving in a few days. Mom and dad arranged for me to have a last play date with Copley. Mom told me that after today I would never see him again. Being a dog, I always try to live in the moment. I didn't quite understand what she meant. I could tell something was different though. Copley seemed very stressed out. We had fun running together and we had a very nice time but I could pick up on everyone's sadness.

Copley was different from all my other doggy boyfriends.There was something about him that was special to me. Whenever I saw Copley I went nuts! I would leap and run almost pulling mom or dad's arms out of the sockets! When ever I walked by his house I would look for him. I would even walk up the driveway and whimper. I really loved it when mom and dad took me for a walk with Copley and his mom and dad. When Copley went back inside his house I would pine for him because I didn't want him to leave! I would take a few steps, stop, look back and whimper. I would do this 4 or 5 times as we walked down the street. I have NEVER done this with any other dog. It was true love! I will miss him very much.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Persian Proverb</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/734676</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 25 Aug 2011 10:59:24 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/734676</guid>
		<description>Then God sent the Greyhound to live among man and remember.
And when the Day comes, God will call t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Then God sent the Greyhound to live among man and remember.
And when the Day comes, God will call the Greyhound to give
Testament, and God will pass judgment on man.
(Persian Proverb) 
Being Isis and a goddess myself, I want to share that with my pup pals.

On Monday I got my costume back. Mom's friend did a good job sewing a hole for my tail on the shorts. She also added some velcro because my waist is smaller than mom's! BOL!!! Mom's friend also fixed the top so it is very easy to get into it. She cut it up the back and added a velcro strip. I just have to put my front legs in the arm holes and mom attaches it in the back. When I first tried it on I was afraid to move. Mom wasn't sure I could walk in it and neither was I. Mom tried to tempt me with a cookie but I just stood there looking at her as if to say "Why??" Mom got a leash and attached it to my collar. I was able to walk just fine. Thankfully I will only have to wear the costume for a short time-until the judges look me over. I hope I win!

Mom and I were going to go for a long walk today but the forecast said heavy rains in the afternoon. The sky didn't look very good so we decided to stay close to home. I am glad we did because it is now raining cats outside and thunder and lightning too!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Old Home Weekend</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/732622</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 15 Aug 2011 05:54:24 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/732622</guid>
		<description>Mom is a little behind on my diary again. Lets go back to last Monday and we can work our way to the ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom is a little behind on my diary again. Lets go back to last Monday and we can work our way to the present.

Last Monday one of mom's friends came over. She brought her 7 year old daughter, Anna. I was afraid at first as I am around all human children. Anna was calm and quiet and I was soon very comfortable with her. She really likes animals too and I sensed that. Mom started putting shorts on me and marking where my tail was. Mom's friend is helping to make a new costume for me for Greyhound Friend's next open house. I won last year but I can't wear the same costume this year. I can't tell you what I am going as yet, but I will post pictures after the contest is over. I have a magician's hat with 3 rabbits inside. It is one of my toys that I got for my birthday last year. Anna was having fun putting the hat on my head and covering me up with my blanket. I was very good and just laid there. Mom says my costume is ready but her friend is on vacation this week. I will have a final fitting when she gets back.

On Tuesday I saw Copley! That is always the highlight of my week. I was sniffing around on the ground,looked up and there he was! I did a vertical leap in the air and pulled daddy over to him. We had a nice walk together.

On Friday I saw an old friend-- Vito the pit bull! I haven't seen him in a very long time because he had to have surgery on his legs. He had hurt himself very badly and it has been a long recovery. I didn't recognize him at first- that is how long it has been since I had seen him! One butt sniff, however, and I knew! He was my first friend when I left the race track. He helped give me the confidence to walk with mom and dad on the leash. It was a happy reunion.
Later that same night we had some excitement at our house. Charlie (one of my cat brothers) was laying on daddy's lap. All of a sudden he jumped off and ran into the kitchen and jumped on the center isle. I saw it too and started to bark! It was a tiny mouse! Mom and dad didn't see it because it went under the stove. Charlie caught it! He had it in his mouth. Mom and dad saw the tail sticking out of Charlie's mouth and thought he had killed it. Then mom hear it squeaking. She knew it was still alive and wanted to save it. Mom caught Charlie and tried to make him let go. He finally did and the mouse started running! Then the fun really began. I watched mom, dad, Charlie, Ben and the mouse run all over the house! Charlie and Ben were trying to catch the mouse. Mom was also trying to catch the mouse and trying to keep Ben and Charlie from catching it. Daddy didn't know what to do! Mom was yelling "Get a container." Daddy brought her a plastic container the mushrooms came in!! Mom said "no, glass jar!" Daddy found it in the recycle bin. Mom had the mouse cornered under a table. She put the jar down but the mouse jumped over it and ran back into the living room with Charlie and Ben following. The mouse darted under a bookcase. Mom tried the jar technique again and this time the mouse ran into the jar! It was scared but OK. It was moving fine and there was no blood. Mom and dad let the mouse go outside on the rail trail. Mom said he ran into the leaves. Charlie was mad at mom for the rest of the night!

On Saturday we went to New Hampshire to visit Grampy. It was his birthday. It was also Old Home Weekend in the town where Grampy lives (and mom grew up)They has festivities going on in town so we all took a walk to see them (grampy too). There were a lot of people there and everyone wanted to pet me. Mom and dad had to explain that I was afraid of strange people. I kept hiding behind daddy. I did meet some other dogs which was fun. We went down to the river. There was a band playing music. It was a bit too loud for me. I did dip my paws in the river which felt nice and cool. I tried to drink the water but it didn't taste good. Mom said it was because the river was connecting to the ocean and there was a little bit of salt in the water. Mom met someone she knew from high school. She actually dated the guy. He had a booth and was teaching people to play chess. He promised mom he could teach her in 10 minutes. They talked for a while so I laid down in the shade of the tent. Mom said she would take a chess lesson but wanted to bring me back to grampy's. Mom could tell I was a bit stressed from all the people and activity. I was glad to go back and hang out with grampy. I got to run around in his yard which was fun. Mom went back and got her lesson. Her ex boyfriend gave her a chess set to practice with! When mom and dad went back to the fair they met 3 other greyhounds! One was Panda who had come from Greyhound Friends! Mom and dad took grampy out to dinner but I couldn't go. I stayed home and took a nap. It was an exciting day but I was glad to get back home.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Greyhound International Day!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/730532</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 1 Aug 2011 06:21:54 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/730532</guid>
		<description>On Saturday, mom, dad and I went to Greyhound Friend's in Hopkington, MA. They were having Greyhound ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ On Saturday, mom, dad and I went to Greyhound Friend's in Hopkington, MA. They were having Greyhound International Day there. Speakers were invited from the USA, Spain, and Ireland to talk about greyhound issues around the world. They have greyhounds in Spain called Galgos. They are not used for racing but for hunting. When a dog is no longer able to hunt well they are hung from trees or just abandoned to fend for themselves. It is terrible! Several rescue groups talked about how they are helping the Galgos. Bernie was a speaker from Ireland. Ireland wanted to sell greyhounds to China to start a racing industry there. There are no animal welfare laws in China and they eat dogs! Mom and I did a protest in Boston last Spring. There were also protests in Ireland as well. The Irish government decided not to sell dogs to China. They are still planning, however, to help set up tracks there. This just means the Chinese will buy dogs from other counties. We still have work to do. In the Midwest they have dogs called Lurchers. These are greyhounds crossed with hunting dogs. Usually they breed the greyhounds with Coonhounds. The idea is to make faster hunting dogs. Once again, many are hung, drowned, shot or abandoned when they can no longer hunt well. My boyfriend, Copley, is a lurcher! He is part ridgeback though.
The event was held outside and it was a hot day. there was a big tent with chairs inside. It was a lot cooler in the shade of the tent and the grass was nice and cool. Mom brought me plenty of water and they also had a swimming pool and other water bowls set up. Other greyhounds came to the event too so I got to socialize. It was a long day but we learned a lot. s nice to know there are so many people wanting to help my breed. I just wish all humans were like that. Sigh!!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Pool Party!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/729701</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 25 Jul 2011 07:35:25 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/729701</guid>
		<description>It has been VERY hot the past couple of weeks so I have been spending most of my time in our air con ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It has been VERY hot the past couple of weeks so I have been spending most of my time in our air conditioned house. I get too hot when it is 90 degrees or higher outside. Mom says I "wilt"! Last Friday it was the hottest day yet! It reached 102 degrees! Auntie Carla invited us to her house for a pool party! I was invited too! Daddy was supposed to have a skating lesson, but he called up his coach and cancelled it. Daddy picked up some corn on the cob on his way home from work so we could bring it to the party. I was SO happy to go to Aunt Carla's house. It was good to see Gil. GT was in the bedroom because he is still afraid of most people. Mom went in to see him and say "Hi". Mom and dad made me stay in the house at first. They were helping Aunt Carla with the food and was afraid I would go swimming before they got their bathing suits on. Daddy got ready and told mom that she could let me out when he got close to the pool. All I really wanted to do was run! And I did!! Even though it was very hot out, I still had a really good run. Mom and dad got in the pool but I decided not to. I almost did a couple of times but after what happened at Gates pond, I realized I'm not a Golden Retriever! More and more people came- with dogs! Most of the dogs were Italian Greyhounds. There must have been at least 10 of them! Then there was me and Gil and one other dog who was not in the greyhound family. I was very social and greeted a lot of people( including Aunt Carla's mother who doesn't like animals!). It was fun! One of the Italian Greyhounds kept stealing food off the table! She pulled down a whole skewer of meat! She ended up back on her leash. I knew not to do that. I was very good. We stayed for several hours and it finally cooled off. It got dark and mom was getting attacked by bugs so we had to leave! She even put bug spray on but it didn't help. Her legs are still covered in bites. Of course I wanted to stay! I always do!! I know I will get invited back again soon.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>4th Of July Adventures!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/727607</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 6 Jul 2011 09:58:49 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/727607</guid>
		<description>I hope all of my pup pals had a fun and safe 4th Of July. I hope the fireworks didn't scare you. I d ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I hope all of my pup pals had a fun and safe 4th Of July. I hope the fireworks didn't scare you. I don't like the noise but I don't get scared. Mom and dad are happy about that.

Sunday we all went to a big outdoor picnic/potluck. It was held by the Boston Vegetarian Society. It was at the same place it was last year. The best thing was that dogs were invited too! Mom and dad brought my pen so that I would feel safe with all the activity going on. I like having my own safe place. Mom brought me some dog cookies so I could have something to eat too. There were about 80 people that came and about 10 other dogs. Some of them I recognized from before. Mom and dad took me for several walks because I am very good at not going in my pen. One time we walked down the street to a dirt path that led to the water. Mom told me it was part of the Charles River. It was nice. On our way back, however, some people were playing basket ball in the front yard. The ball bounced close to me and I got really scared by it. I was happy to get back to my pen. I tried to dig a hole in the dirt but mom kept telling me "no". I was a bit confused by that. At home in my yard I can dig wherever I want to. I like digging into the dirt because it is cooler. Mom told me that because the yard belonged to someone else, that I shouldn't dig it up. We there all afternoon and I made friends with some of the people there. A man named Joe gave me a massage. I know Joe. He has come to our house before to watch movies. He always hangs out with me. The massage felt really good!

On Sunday we went to visit Cloa's Ark Animal Sanctuary. The sanctuary is run by Patrick and Claudine. At first we had to stop at Patrick's house so that daddy could help him with the computer. Mom put my muzzle on and at first I didn't know why. Patrick and Claudine have rabbits and birds in their house. One rabbit was loose in the living room. Mom and dad wanted to make sure the rabbit was safe. I didn't see it at first but when I did, I could look at nothing else! I sniffed it and it hopped away. I wanted SO badly to get that rabbit. I stared at him the whole time we were there. Mom and dad kept me on a short leash. I was so mesmerized by the bunny that I forgot I had my muzzle on! When it came time to leave, I tried to go back to the house- where the rabbit was. Mom and dad suspected I would react that way. I am just too hard wired to hunt rabbits. Mom had hoped to bring a rabbit to our house one day. Now they don't think it would be a good idea. We left the house and went to the Sanctuary. Claudine was there waiting for us. She went early to feed a baby goat. Daddy set up my pen under a tree so I would have shade. Mom and dad didn't want me to chase the goats because there were several babies there as well as baby geese. Claudine told me I could dig all I wanted too. I made a nice dirt bed. The goats were curious about me and I was curious about them. I touched noses with a sheep. I had a good time and finally forgot about the rabbit. It was a busy but fun weekend. Catching up on my napping now!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Very Long Weekend!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/726865</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 29 Jun 2011 07:44:37 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/726865</guid>
		<description>The long weekend started on Thursday. I knew something was different when daddy didn't go to work. M ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ The long weekend started on Thursday. I knew something was different when daddy didn't go to work. Mom seemed excited as well. I got an early walk and mom and dad left in the car. They didn't take me with them this time. When they came home they had a human child with them! With a suitcase!! I was a bit horrified! Children have too much chaotic energy. I am very afraid of them. The child seemed calm so I sniffed her. She smelled a little like mom! Mom explained that this was her granddaughter, Davina, who was staying with us for a few days. Things actually went OK. I did well. I was always a little nervous but I let Davina give me treats. I wouldn't do tricks for her, but I did take the treat when offered. Thankfully mom and dad did a lot of activities with her during the day so I got to nap in peace. On Friday, my dog walker, Sarah, took me and her dog, Bella, for a walk along the river. I enjoyed that. I also saw Copley a few times which always makes my day! Davina even walked me a few times. I was always nervous and would keep looking back at her. She was short and kept the leash too low. I kept getting my front legs tangled in it. She did run with me though, which I liked. Davina went home on Monday night and things are now back to normal. Mom took me for a walk down Winter Street and I saw a bunny near Copley's house. I was able to get really close to it- about 6 feet away-before it ran off. I tried to chase it but mom pulled me back. I could have caught it if it wasn't for the darn leash! Mom says this weekend I will be going to a 4th of July picnic.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I Won A Photo Contest!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/726079</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 21 Jun 2011 13:28:36 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/726079</guid>
		<description>Sunday was Father's Day. Mom, dad and I drove to NH to visit Grampy. He is doing very well. The driv ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Sunday was Father's Day. Mom, dad and I drove to NH to visit Grampy. He is doing very well. The drive doesn't seem very long anymore. Not since I rode all the way to Gettysburg. It was a beautiful day so we all spent our time on Grampy's porch. Daddy opened the doors to the garage and the back yard so I could come in and out as I pleased. The porch and the garage are connected so I can walk from the porch, through the garage and into the back yard! I like that. I still wanted either mom or dad to come with me though. Mom and dad took grampy out to eat. Once again,I wasn't allowed to go. I stayed on the porch. It was OK. Mom and dad weren't gone very long and they had a nice dinner. I had a good run in grampy's yard. It was a fun day.

Mom had entered my picture in a photo contest a couple of weeks ago. Daddy entered a picture of Charlie. Mom just got a phone call a few minutes ago. I won! My picture is going to be framed for free and hung in the store window for a couple of months. That means a lot of people will see my picture! Mom and dad want me to buy something called a lottery ticket! They say I am very lucky. Even though I never won a race, I guess I am pretty lucky.I have a wonderful life now. Mom said that if I had won races, the people who owned me at the track would probably have used me for breeding after I broke my foot. So I guess I was lucky not winning races after all!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I Went To The Laundromutt!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/725039</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 11 Jun 2011 15:28:27 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/725039</guid>
		<description>Yes, you read that right! Mom, dad and I all got into the car early this afternoon. I never know whe ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yes, you read that right! Mom, dad and I all got into the car early this afternoon. I never know where I am going, but since I usually end up at the pet store, I figured that was where we were going. Boy was I wrong. First mom and dad stopped at a store to get lunch. It was a cool. cloudy day in the 60's so I was fine in the car for a few minutes. Mom and dad actually ate their lunch in the car with me so I wouldn't get lonely. Then daddy drove for awhile and we stopped at a place I had never been to before. When we first went in, it seemed like a pet store. There were toys, collars and treats for sale. I was thinking it was just a new pet store. A nice lady came up and spoke with mom and dad. She pet me and then led us to the back room. They had dog wash tubs! I refused to walk up the ramp so daddy had to lift me into the tub. I had been to a place like this before so I knew what was coming. First I got rinsed. Then I got almond shampoo! Mom and dad scrubbed me all over. It felt kind of good I have to admit, but I was still a bit scared. I did get a lot of dead hair out.Then I got rinsed again, wiped with a chamois and fluffed with a towel. I walked down the ramp on my own. Anything to get out of the tub. Mom and dad toweled me some more. Then the nice lady came back and did my nails. She got my quick and I bled on the floor. She put some quick stop on my foot and the bleeding stopped right away. I was fine. Mom and dad got me a treat for being so good. Mom said I had been stinky since my swim in the pond. I am all fluffy and clean now. On our way home we stopped at Petco for some supplies. I did get to the pet store after all! Not exactly how I had planned to spend my Saturday afternoon!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>The Whisker Walk!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/724358</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 5 Jun 2011 14:41:14 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/724358</guid>
		<description>Today mom and dad took me to the Whisker Walk. We went last year too. It is held at the Lancaster Fa ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today mom and dad took me to the Whisker Walk. We went last year too. It is held at the Lancaster Fairgrounds and is only about 20 minutes from our house. I got all excited the minute daddy pulled into the field to park. I could see lots of dogs getting out of cars. A group of Girl Scouts were handing out gift bags to everyone who entered the fair grounds. Mom got one for me. Mom got lots of free samples and cookies. We walked all around and went to all the different booths. Greyhound Friends were there so we spent some time visiting and helping out. Mom entered a couple of raffles. We haven't heard anything yet, but it doesn't mean we didn't win. Believe it or not, I made a raffle ticket! It was the darnedest thing!!! In our gift bag everyone got poop bags. They had several bag stations set up around the grounds for deposits. If your dog made a poop and you used the special bag, you could deposit it at the bag station and they gave you a raffle ticket! It was actually a great way to ensure people picked up after their dogs! Mom and dad waited, but I came I through! I made a raffle ticket. If we win, mom and dad will get to see a Red Sox baseball game! They had misting stations set up too. It was a water hose on the mist setting so we could get cooled off. I went twice! The sun was hot and since I am a black dog I needed a little cooling off. Mom said she would rather mist me than have me go swimming!!! I met a  lot of dogs I knew today. I also met many new ones. Mom saw the "wolf" again. It was the same one she had seen at Paws In The Park. This time we got to meet him. He wasn't a wolf, he just looked like one. He had a lot of different wolf looking breeds in him- husky, German shepherd and one other one. The combination made him look just like one! He was nice. Mom got to meet a Facebook friend in person. She was helping to run a booth for becoming vegan (which both my mom and dad are). Mom was all excited. Mom and dad got human cookies. I guess it was only fair since I had a whole bag of cookies. We watched a few demonstrations for freebie chasing and fly ball. We were there about 3 hours and felt it was time to head back home. Almost time for my evening walk, so I should get ready. More later!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>My Swim at Gates Pond!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/723904</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 1 Jun 2011 08:00:15 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/723904</guid>
		<description>I hope all my Pup Pals had a safe and fun Memorial Day. Both mom and dad had the day off work. They  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I hope all my Pup Pals had a safe and fun Memorial Day. Both mom and dad had the day off work. They wanted to take me somewhere special that day but it was very hot outside. It was close to 90 degrees and very humid. Aunt Carla E-mailed mom and asked if we would like to go to Gates Pond for a walk that afternoon. Mom and dad knew I would enjoy that and we all hoped it would cool down a bit by then. We got there at 4:30. There were about 16 dogs in all and about 7 humans. There were greyhounds, whippets, and Italian greyhounds so we really did have small, medium and large. Dad let me go off leash with Gill. I really enjoy having some freedom and I am very good about coming when I am called. There were horses up ahead of us on the trail so we took our time to let them get far ahead of us. We did see evidence of them throughout the walk, but never ran into them. We all stopped for a drink at one of the side trails. Gill and I went right into the water. It felt good to cool off a bit. The wooded path was much cooler but it was still pretty hot out. We were on our way back towards the car and I was really hot and thirsty. I wanted another drink. I tried to go off the trail to the pond but mom kept calling me back because it wasn't safe. Aunt Carla said she knew of a place up ahead where we could all get another drink. I was glad that it wasn't very far. We took a side trail and came to an open clearing with a little utility house by the pond. There was a man and his wife fishing there but I was too hot to care. Gill and I waded right into the water. I was standing on a rock ledge. What I didn't realize was that the ledge had a very quick drop off into deep water. Mom, dad and Aunt Carla were yelling at me to STOP! I didn't respond quick enough and walked right off the ledge and into the deep water! I went under for a second but managed to swim up to the surface. daddy was ready to jump in after me. I was disoriented for a few seconds and started swimming away from the shore. Mom, dad and Aunt Carla kept calling me. I heard then, turned around and managed to swim back to the rock ledge. I was a bit shaken by the whole thing. I got out of the water as fast as I could! I am just not made for swimming! I did get cool though! I was happy to get back to the car. On our way home, mom, dad and I stopped at Petco for some cat food. I was still pretty wet but no one seemed to mind. I still wanted my cookie when we got home, so I guess I wasn't too traumatized by the whole thing. Mom said she doesn't want me to going swimming again!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>It's A Dog's Life!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/722811</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 22 May 2011 15:26:23 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/722811</guid>
		<description>Wow! What a weekend! Don't know where to begin? Mom says it is always best to start at the beginning ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Wow! What a weekend! Don't know where to begin? Mom says it is always best to start at the beginning so that would be Saturday.

After a cloudy, miserable week we finally had a beautiful day filled with sunshine. I could feel the excitement in the air! Mom said that this weekend was going to be special. We left the house around 10:30. Daddy drove mom's car. We arrived at Greyhound Friend's Spring open house shortly after 11:00. There were people setting up tables and tents. Daddy brought my exercise pen so I would have a place to rest and chill out. Mom set it up for me with my water bowl and a blanket. Once again we worked at the silent auction and raffle table. Daddy helped set up tents over the items as there was a chance that it could rain in the afternoon. The tent didn't totally cover my pen,so mom hung a blanket over part of the pen to provide extra shade for me. Around noon, people and dogs started to come. Many people came to our booth to place bids on items and buy raffle tickets. Mom bid on a few items herself and she entered my name in the raffle drawing! Daddy took me for frequent walks around the grounds. I enjoyed meeting all the other dogs as well as visiting the booths. We met a black male greyhound named Damion who looked just like me. My mom and Damion's mom decided to enter us in the "find your twin" contest in the dog show. There was still time before the show, so daddy took me to the fenced in field to run. A dog named Lucy came in with me. She didn't want to run...but I sure did! I ran all around the field! It was fun! Greyhound Friends built a memorial garden. People can buy bricks with their dog's name on it as a memorial when their dogs go to the Rainbow Bridge. My time won't come for many years yet, but mom and dad will buy a brick for me then. They had a beautiful dedication ceremony. A greyhound named Boston Boy was the greyhound who is responsible for the start of Greyhound Friend's. The memorial garden is in his name. Soon it was time for the dog show. They didn't have a PA system this year, so mom, dad and I had to go over to the show ring so we could hear the events. There weren't many in the youngest dog contest, so mom entered me. It was only a dollar to enter. The youngest dog has to be under 6. I am 4 1/2 now. I won a third place ribbon. After the oldest dog contest and longest tail (I can't win against other greyhounds), they had the twin contest. Damion and I were the only team to enter! They kept calling for more contestants but no one could hear them without the PA system. Damion and I won first place! We got our prizes and then 6 other dogs including two beagles wanted to enter. They let us keep our first place ribbons and held another twin contest! Hopefully next year they will have the PA system again. Things were starting to wind down and it was time for the raffle. I won a small greyhound statue! Mom got out bid on her silent auction items but that is OK. The more money people bid, the more money for Greyhound Friends. It was a wonderful open house. Lots of people made donations and Matthew found his forever home. The open house continued on Sunday but we had another event to go to!

Sunday wasn't as nice as Saturday. It was cool and overcast. No rain though so that was good. We left the house at 9:30 and daddy drove us in his car this time. We went to Paws In The Park to benefit Save A Dog. Mom and I raised $415 dollars for the event! I got a beautiful blue bandana to wear. There were dogs and booths everywhere. Last year I was more nervous but I am getting more and more used to these events now. I actually went into all the booths this year! I saw dogs of all different breeds and sizes. Greyhound Friends had a booth and I saw Gill and Aunt Carla! We walked around the whole fair grounds, visited every booth and collected free samples of goodies. The walk was at 11:00. There was a whole parade of dogs in the walk. I was up near the front of the pack. We walked through woods on a path for the most part. We also walked past an old mill with a water wheel. It was very nice. After the walk we watched some of the dog games and demos. There was also a parade of adoptable dogs. Aunt Carla entered a black greyhound named Roller in the parade for adoption. He may have found his forever home! I hope so. He is very nice. Daddy bought some kettle corn. Mom and dad shared it with me! It was good but it did have some sugar so I couldn't have too much of it. Mom saw a wolf at the event! He was amazing! He was very tame and walked on a leash just like the rest of us. There were also handicapped dogs in carts there as well. After the adoption parade they had more games. One of the games was a dress up contest. Mom had wanted to enter me in this at Gettysburg but daddy and I missed it. Well,daddy and I entered this one! Mom can't run fast because she gets shooting pain in her hip so daddy did the contest with me. they placed clothes at the end of the field. We had to run down to the clothes, get dressed and run back as fast as we could. Daddy and I were in line when they announced the rules. My heart sank when they said the dog had to sit to win. I can't sit! Many greyhounds can't. We are not built for it. Mom spoke up and they made an exception for me. Daddy and I were the first ones to reach the clothes. Mom has dressed me in costumes before so I am OK with it. I also wear my jackets when it is cold out. Daddy had trouble with the shirt because it was too small for me. He got it on me the best he could. One dog lost all his clothes on the run back to the finish line! Daddy and I came in 3rd. Everyone was laughing because it was all for fun. Everyone got a prize. I LOVE my prize. I got a plush squeaky lizard that is yellowish green. I can see the colors! Aunt Carla took pictures because mom told her to watch! A little while later they had tail contests- longest, shortest and waggiest. Mom entered me the longest. As long as no other greyhounds enter I can usually win it. My tail is 21 inches long! I was up against a German Shepard. They didn't have a tape measure so we stood butt to butt. Mine was longer but they made it a tie. Once again everyone got a prize. This time I got a big rubber dumbbell toy! Now I can lift weights with mom!!! It was almost time for the fair to close so we walked around one more time and visited a few minutes with Aunt Carla and Greyhound Friend's booth. We were just about to leave when we learned they were giving away free collars. we went and got one. Aunt Carla came with us and got some for her dogs too. I am a tired dog now! What a fun weekend.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Hosting The MayDOG walk</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/722199</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 16 May 2011 10:40:53 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/722199</guid>
		<description>On Saturday mom, dad and I hosted a group dog walk for MayDOG (Maynard Dog Owner's Group). Everyone  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ On Saturday mom, dad and I hosted a group dog walk for MayDOG (Maynard Dog Owner's Group). Everyone met at our house. My friend Kiera came with her mom, Lisa and we also had 2 more dogs join us. We were all girls! Usually I prefer hanging out with the boys, but I still had fun. One dog was an Australian Shepherd mix and she sure liked to bark a lot. Her human decided it would be best to drive to the trail head and meet us there as she was disturbing the neighborhood. Kiera then proceeded to pick a fight with the other dog who was a Golden Retriever. The fight didn't last long and only lasted a few seconds. No one got hurt. I was thinking that the walk wasn't starting out too well. We crossed rte 117 to Winter Street and met up with the barking shepherd at the trail head. She did calm down as we kept walking and finally stopped barking. Kiera also behaved herself. We walked way past the rocks and almost to the air field and back! The day was overcast and cool and there were lots of mosquitoes around. I still got bit despite mom spraying me with bug spray. We all had a good time though. Kiera's mom said we walked 2.6 miles. After we said our goodbyes, it was time for the pet store. It was just our usual weekly shopping trip but I did get a flossie and a cookie. I thought we would be going right home but dad drove us to a yard sale! It was mom's idea! I don't think daddy would ever go to a yard sale on his own. Mom was looking for things for my next Halloween costume. She didn't find anything. 
After lunch we all got back into the car to take a trip to visit grampy in NH. After going to Gettysburg, the trip didn't seem as long.We had a nice visit and watched a movie called Ice Castles. I napped through most of it. After the movie, mom and dad took me for a walk through the town where mom used to live. That was a second long walk in one day! We came upon one house and there was a bunch of chickens in the yard! All the chickens came running over to see us. Daddy peeled an acorn for them. I think they were very curious about us. Mom and dad stopped at the grocery store on our way back home. I had to wait in the car but it was cool outside and they weren't gone for very long. It was a busy day.

On Sunday mom and dad had to go to a fund raiser for a farm animal sanctuary. I wasn't allowed to go. Mom told me when they got home that the people who run the sanctuary asked if they could name a baby black chicken after me! I think that is cool! Now there is a chicken named Isis too! Mom and dad came home smelling like goats and rabbits. They had a good time despite the rain. Mom didn't win the raffle. They should have brought me with them. I am lucky in raffles! Mom said that next weekend will be even busier. It will be Greyhound Friend's Open House and Paws In The Park. I better get some some rest!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>A Visit To GT</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/721098</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 5 May 2011 15:23:48 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/721098</guid>
		<description>Today mom took me to visit GT. I hopped right into the car. I was so excited when I saw we were at A ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today mom took me to visit GT. I hopped right into the car. I was so excited when I saw we were at Aunt Carla's house. I didn't even want to wait for mom! GT looked great! He came right up to me and mom. Mom gave him the stuffed bone we bought him at Gettysburg. He took it right in his mouth and carried it off to play. We couldn't play in the yard together yet because he is still healing from his surgery. He can only go on walks right now. I did get to run and play with Gill though. We had a fun time and had a hard run. We visited for a couple of hours. I made myself right at home in one of the dog beds and even played with one of the stuffed toys. Mom and Aunt Carla had a nice talk. They are planning a secrete costume idea for me and Gill at the October Greyhound Friend's costume contest! The Iggies (Italian Greyhounds) started a group roo! I joined right in. All of us dogs participated. It was fun! Mom and Aunt Carla laughed. I really didn't want to leave, but I didn't give mom a hard time. I got right back into the car when she asked me to. I know I will get to visit again soon. I am so glad that GT is doing better. I look forward to when we can run together again.]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>I Don't Think I Am In Gettysburg Anymore!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/720749</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 2 May 2011 12:37:55 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/720749</guid>
		<description>It felt good to sleep in my own bed last night. I was pretty tired from all the activity this weeken ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It felt good to sleep in my own bed last night. I was pretty tired from all the activity this weekend. I would love to go back next year. It was about 9:30 when mom put my harness and leash on. I had no idea why. I had already had my morning walk and did my duty. Dad told me to get into the car. Wouldn't you know it- I ended up at the Vets! I think that was dirty trick! Mom told me it was time for my annual check up. I had to have blood drawn for my heart worm and tick panel and get a shot! It was called a lepto vaccine and mom said I needed it because I sometimes drink from puddles when no one is looking!! My exam went well. The vet said I am very healthy. while we were waiting to pay for my exam, I made friends with another dog in the waiting room. I also walked up and down the hallway, peering into the exam rooms. On our way back from the Vets we stopped off at the pet store near my house and got food and a cookie.
The Vet called around 3:30 with my panel results. Everything is negative except I am slightly positive for lyme disease. I have been positive on that for about 2 years now. I feel fine so they are just watching things.
This evening mom and dad took me for a nice walk at NARA Park. We hadn't been there in a while, so it was a nice change of pace. We walked about 45 minutes. It was beautiful weather. Mom and dad took me on a wooded trail for part of the walk. Mom picked up a tick. She is OK though. She found it and was able to remove it before it could cause any problems. Mom should use Frontline like me!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Last Day In Gettysburg</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/720674</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 1 May 2011 20:12:44 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/720674</guid>
		<description>We all had to get up early this morning. I was still tired from the day before. Mom and dad had to p ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We all had to get up early this morning. I was still tired from the day before. Mom and dad had to pack all the suitcases and put them in the car. The morning events started at 9 o'clock which was an hour early than Saturday. I was so tired that I laid down to eat my breakfast! We checked out of our motel room and headed off to the  recreation field for the speed run and fun run. Daddy told me and mom that our motel might not allow us to come back next year. It seems that a lot of people were not picking up after their dogs. That is such a shame. Mom and dad always pick up after me. It isn't hard to do!

We arrived at the field early and there were already many greyhounds and people there. Mom signed me up for the speed run test. I was the 3rd dog to run it. They had set up orange fence that we had to run down as fast as we could. A person at the other end had a radar gun to see how fast we could go. Daddy was supposed to go all the way down to the other end to get me to run faster but the man in charge told mom to release me before daddy had a chance to get down the field. People had a white lure that they were waving for me to get me excited about the chase. I wasn't sure exactly what to do. I did run but not at full speed. I was clocked at only 27 mph. I could have easily run 35 or more. That was OK. I still got a certificate. One dog reached 39 mph! She was the fastest one there.
After an hour, they shut down the speed run so everyone could go to the pet blessing and rainbow bridge memorial service. It was very nice. All the people had candles and prayers were said. 
Once the blessings were over, mom and dad took me to the fun run. Tracy and Gino came too so we could run together. This was held in a different field because the speed runs started up again. We went in groups of 4 or 5 dogs. Daddy will post the video of me soon. The only part I didn't like was that I had to wear a muzzle. It was a rule and requirement. I personally don't need one, but some greyhounds nip when they run in a pack. I still had fun, but I kept trying to get it off! 

After the fun run it was time to get back into the car and start our long journey back home. Mom and dad stopped for lunch and got a sub. They ate at a picnic table outside so I could join them. It is nice to be home but I do miss Gettysburg. Mom and dad said we will go again. Maybe even next year. I hope so. I had a lot of fun.
Here is a link to pictures! https://picasaweb.google.com/tumeria33/GettysburgPA?authkey=Gv1sRgCO_t9rqgyOX06wE#]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Day Two Of GIG!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/720484</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 30 Apr 2011 05:12:18 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/720484</guid>
		<description>I was very tired this morning! I slept like a log! Mom and dad didn't hear a peep out of me. I slept ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I was very tired this morning! I slept like a log! Mom and dad didn't hear a peep out of me. I slept until after 7. Mom got me up to do my business because she wanted to jump into the shower. Events start at 10 today! There were 4 other dogs out when I got there. My energy was renewed once again! They went back inside shortly after I met them and I wanted to follow! Mom told me that I still needed to walk some more but I insisted that we go back inside. Since I had gone potty, mom brought me back in. I couldn't find the other dogs any where! I whined the whole time mom was in the shower! I only ate half of my breakfast! I whined until daddy got up. I am too excited!!! I want to get to the events! Daddy went to get bowls of cereal for him and mom. They were eating breakfast when we heard this awful sound. Mom and dad looked confused for a moment and then figured out it was a fire alarm! We had to leave our room and go outside. Mom gathered a few essentials on the way out. The noise from the alarm was very loud in the hall way! I didn't like it. It hurt my ears. We didn't smell any smoke or see any fire. I met all my friends outside. We waited but no fire truck came. It was a false alarm. Someone said that maybe someone burned their waffle at breakfast. We all got to come back inside. We are leaving in a few minutes. I am way too excited!

I was happy to be back at the outlet shoppes. Mom and dad headed right to the man who did caricatures. There was already someone getting their portrait done but we were next in line. I was a little nervous, but daddy sat right next to me and mom stood on the other side of me. The man was nice and drew a good picture of me. It didn't look exactly like me- more of a cartoon, but mom said that is what a caricature was. The man was the artist who had designed the T-shirts for Greyhounds In Gettysburg this year! After my picture, we brought it to the car so it would stay nice. Mom and dad then took me to get my nails trimmed. I was NOT having much fun at this point! Mom said that my nails needed to be short for the run tomorrow. The lady was very quick about it which I appreciated. We did a bit more shopping. We got a squeaky bone as a gift for GT, a catnip toy for Ben and Charlie, and greyhound decals for mom's car. Next it was time for the parade. We all lined up, some into groups, and walked through the outlet shoppes. There were people watching us and taking pictures. We met up with Tracey and Gino. Tracey had a gift for us! That was SO sweet of her. The costume contest was up next. There was 4 categories- most patriotic, best civil war, most creative and funniest. Mom signed me up for most creative. I was the second competitor in line. I competed against a greyhound dressed as a sheep, a Starbucks coffee hound, and a greyhound in a dress and flowery hat. I wore my usual costume of Isis, goddess of magic. I won two previous contests with this costume. I came in second place this time and won a nice ribbon. Mom was pleased. One dog in the funniest category was a greyhound bus! I think he won the grand prize. His costume was the best! We didn't wait to see because mom wanted to go to a seminar on therapy dogs. Mom doesn't think I am ready for it yet after listening to the requirements. We are going to look into it further and maybe take some classes. The next lecture was all about how greyhounds are bred and  trained for racing. Mom and dad wanted more insight as to my life before I was adopted. They found it very interesting. By now it was after 2pm. We checked to see if we had won a raffle prize. We missed winning by one number! I was tired so mom and dad took me to the motel to rest. They went to play miniature golf. I could have gone too, but I really needed the nap. Dad won, but not by much! After mom and dad came back, they rested for a few minutes and then it was time to leave for dinner. The restaurant had a deck and greyhounds could be on the deck so I went too! I knew some of the humans there! Barbara from Greyhound Adventures was there and Pat from Greyhound Friends. Barbara got me a dog bed from her car so I could lay down. I used it but the people at the next table had a blanket that I liked better. There dog let me lie on the blanket! I was very good at dinner. There was a man in an electric wheel chair that went by me a couple of times and I wasn't even scared. I will make a good therapy dog some day! We were about to leave the restaurant when we heard a crash. Two cars had a slight accident. Daddy and I ran out to take a look. Mom was stuck at the table waiting for the bill! No one was hurt bad. We are back at the motel now for a few minutes to rest before our ghost tour. Mom is excited about that. I wonder if we will see any ghosts? More soon!

The ghost walk was fun! There were lots of greyhounds there! We broke into 3 groups to keep the groups small. I was very happy that my new friend, Gino and his mom, Tracey, got to go with us. A nice woman in a colonial dress named Nancy was our guide. I liked to follow right behind her. She had a lantern and a basket. We would stop walking every so often and she would tell us a ghost story. We walked for about an hour and a half. We didn't see any ghosts though. It was a very long day but I had fun. Tomorrow is our last morning here in Gettysburg. Time to say good night.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>First Day Of GIG</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/720372</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 29 Apr 2011 04:19:54 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/720372</guid>
		<description>I woke up my usual time this morning- around 6:30. I slept well during the night and was quiet so mo ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I woke up my usual time this morning- around 6:30. I slept well during the night and was quiet so mom and dad could sleep. Mom got up and checked the computer to see what the temperature was outside. It was 55 so I didn't need my jacket. Mom took me out to let daddy sleep a little longer. We left the motel room and I immediately saw 2 other greyhounds! I almost pulled mom off her feet. After a few minutes, more and more greyhounds appeared. There were at least 10 of us! I was so excited! I had to introduce myself to each and every one! We had a virtual play date! This is one time I wish leashes didn't exist! After socializing and doing what a dog has to do, mom brought me back in for breakfast. Mom said I will have even more fun later!

After mom and dad ate breakfast and took their showers we got into the car. Daddy drove us to a parking garage. This one was better than the one in Boston. It was smaller and didn't have a room that moved. Mom, dad and I walked through the town of Gettysburg. Mom made me and daddy stand by a huge statue of someone called Abraham Lincoln. I was scared of it but mom told me the man wasn't real! We took a lot of pictures as we walked. We went to one of the battlefields that had other statues and cannons. I liked that because it was all grass. On the way back to the car there was a store that had dog treats and a water bowl. I got a treat. We came back to the motel for a little while to rest. We leave for the main event in about a half an hour. I will report more later.

We left a little before noon to go to the main event. When we got there I couldn't believe my eyes! There were greyhounds everywhere! There were many tents set up in a section of the parking lot of The Outlet Shoppes Of Gettysburg. I wanted to get to socializing but mom said we had to register first. We had to stand in line for a few minutes, so I just socialized with the other dogs waiting to register. We got a huge goodie bag with all sorts of things inside. Mom and dad had to wear badges around their necks like a collar. Next we went to all the booths. There were so many wonderful things to see. Mom said she wanted to look at everything before we chose what to buy. That made sense. I was greeting every dog I saw- and there were lots of them! Mom and dad took me to talk to an animal communicator. Her name was Jean and she was very nice. She understood me! I told her that I was very happy with mom and dad and that I would be interested in trying to become a therapy dog someday. I made it very clear that I wouldn't work with children. Mom already knew that but I wanted to be sure. Mom had Jean tell me not to be afraid of people. She talked with me for a long time and I really likes her. I even tried to go back to her tent after we left! Mom bought me a beautiful soft blanket! I LOVE it!! I also got a new purple collar. I got many complements on it. Mom and dad also bought me this cool bone! It had a peanut butter cookie on the outside and peanut butter filling on the inside of a real bone (I am actually working on that bone right now as I dictate to mom). I also got a squeaky plush bone. Mom met a Facebook friend in person today. It was the first time they have really met. Her name is Tracey and she has a greyhound named Gino. He is very nice. It was time for the greyhound games. Mom, Tracey and Gino went ahead. Daddy and I were talking to some people so we lagged behind. Mom wanted to try competing in the first game which was dressing you greyhound as fast as you can. Daddy and I were too late and we missed it. That was OK with me! The other games were bobbing for treats in a bucket of water and wagging your tail. I didn't try those. I don't eat treats often in public and I also don't wag a lot! Mom and dad were hungry so we walked to the shoppes to get them a sub sandwich. Daddy went inside to order and mom and I found a table outside. I got to hang out with some greyhounds at the next table. Mom and dad ate and then we went to a seminar talk. The talk was on the second floor. There were some hounds there that didn't know how to climb stairs. I am an expert now, but it took me a long time to get used to it so I understand how they felt.I tried to show them how to do it and climbed right up to the top. They couldn't follow. We were early and another talk was going on. Mom and dad took me to the end of the hall to wait. We waited near the entrance to one of those rooms that move! Well you can imagine my surprise when the door opened and two greyhounds walked out! They were the ones that couldn't climb the stairs! A few minutes later the door opened again and out came more greyhounds! This just kept happening!! All these dogs kept coming out of that moving room! Some also went inside and disappeared. Next it was time for the talk so we moved closer to the door. I met a black male named Cairo! He looked like me. I thought it was funny that he was Cairo and I was Isis! We found seats in the front row. Guess who was talking? My new friend the animal communicator, Jean! She remembered me and actually told a couple of stories about me from earlier in the afternoon! I approached several people during the talk to get petted and attention. After the talk daddy gave me a choice of using the stairs or going into the room that moved. I was brave and chose the room that moved! I walked right in. We ended up on the bottom floor near the exit door. Mom and dad were very proud of me. It was late and everyone was leaving for the day. Daddy drove us back to our motel. Mom and dad left me to nap and went out to have dinner with Tracey. They weren't gone very long. When they came back, they put my harness on and we went to a greyhound social that was being held at one of the larger hotels in town. There were a lot of dogs and their humans at the social.I made the full rounds several times. I didn't want to miss anyone! Tracey and Gino came too. I rested on several of the dog beds that were laying on the floor. I laid with several of my new friends. Tracey brought me and Gino a bowl of water. that tasted good! It was warm inside the gathering room. We stayed a little over a hour. We were all tired. We came back to our motel and mom gave me a can of dog food. I am exhausted! Time for bed! Until tomorrow!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Arrived In Gettysburg!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/720329</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 28 Apr 2011 16:42:30 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/720329</guid>
		<description>We left early this morning before 8AM. I didn't realize that we would be in the car for so long. Aft ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We left early this morning before 8AM. I didn't realize that we would be in the car for so long. After we rode for about 3 hours, mom and dad stopped at a rest stop. It felt good to walk around and stretch my legs. Then it was back into the car again. We got some very heavy rain storms. It got so bad that daddy had a hard time seeing. Many cars pulled off to the side of the road. We continued on but very slowly. We also passed an accident. It looked like a truck had skidded off the road. I hope no one was hurt. Once we arrived in PA we stopped at a second rest stop. This one was nicer and had really green grass. We arrived at our hotel just before 4 o'clock. I even got to go into the hotel lobby to check in! After we got our room keys, I turned around and saw two other greyhounds! We were very happy to see each other. There are 9 greyhounds staying here tonight. There will be a lot more arriving tomorrow. Mom got me all settled into our room with all the comforts of home. I have my bed, some toys, food and water bowls and even a bone and treats. Our room is very nice. Mom and dad just back back from diner. They drove around Gettysburg and found all the places we needed to find. Mom and dad ate at a very nice restaurant that looked like it did during the colonial days. it was called the Dobbin House Tavern. The fun starts tomorrow! I will say good night for now!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Gettysburg Or Bust!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/720233</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 27 Apr 2011 18:23:22 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/720233</guid>
		<description>We leave for Greyhounds In Gettysburg tomorrow! Mom has been packing all day! I even have my own sui ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We leave for Greyhounds In Gettysburg tomorrow! Mom has been packing all day! I even have my own suitcase! It is small because I don't have much clothes. I am bring my light fleece jacket, my heavier fleece coat and my raincoat. I may not need them, but just in case. We are supposed to have wireless internet at our hotel. Mom will help me keep a log of my adventure. Right now I am a bit bewildered. I am not sure what to make of all this packing!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I Caught A Quail!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/719450</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 21 Apr 2011 07:50:53 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/719450</guid>
		<description>The lady came back to our house on Monday to let us know how much our house is worth.She was afraid  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ The lady came back to our house on Monday to let us know how much our house is worth.She was afraid of Ben! She liked me though. Mom and dad didn't think it was enough so we won't be moving any time soon. I hope the dog park gets approved for our town. Then I will have room to really run! At least I have a small yard and nice hiking trails near my house.

GT is home and doing well. Once again, thank you everyone for your prayers. They really helped! Mom and I were hoping that we could visit him today but his mom thought we should wait a little longer. He needs more time to heal and rest.

This morning I caught a quail! Mom didn't even see it because it was hiding in the brush near the rail trail. The rail trail is the small trail that runs parallel to our street (not the long river trail).I smelled it and then I saw it! Mom just thought I was going over to the brush pile to sniff. Boy was she wrong! I grabbed it in my mouth and held on for all I was worth! The quail was flapping it's wings really hard and slipped my grip! It flew away and I was left with a mouthful of feathers! It scared mom half to death! Mom sang the song "Bird Dog" as we finished our walk. She said it is a very old song that was popular before she was born. Mom said we can go on a long walk this afternoon on the River Trail. Maybe I will find another quail!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I Made A Donation!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/719127</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 18 Apr 2011 08:53:24 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/719127</guid>
		<description>On Friday, two strange people came over our house. daddy worked from home that day because he had a  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ On Friday, two strange people came over our house. daddy worked from home that day because he had a dental cleaning and also needed to get his car inspected. Shortly after mom came home from work, the two people came. It was a man and a woman. They walked all around our house- inside and out. The woman was writing things down on a clipboard. I was curious so I followed them. Mom told me they were going to figure out how much our house is worth. Mom and dad would like to find a new house with a bigger yard for me. It would be nice to run. After the people left we went for a long evening walk. It was nice but I didn't see anyone I knew.

On Saturday I made a donation! Most of you must have heard about Patrick, the pitbull from NJ? He had a really bad mom who almost starved him to death. He was also thrown down a garbage shoot and left for dead. Luckily he was rescued just in time and is now recovering in a shelter in NJ. He is now a famous ambassador against animal abuse and he had many pages on Facebook. Mom joined a couple of his fan pages. This weekend people from all over the country made donations to their local shelters in Patrick's name. Mom thought it would be nice if I made the donation for Patrick. I gave up some of my new tennis type balls and the cats gave a few cans of cat food and some food bowls. We selected Buddy Dog as the shelter to donate to. Mom is doing a walk for Save A Dog in May and is getting sponsors now: http://www.saveadog.org/pledge11.asp?user_id=1353 That is her sponsor page in case anyone would like to sponsor mom. Anyway, we also donate to Greyhound Friends every year too. We thought it would be nice to give to Buddy Dog. We went to the shelter and the woman behind the desk was very happy to receive the items. She thanked me, mom and dad very much. It felt good to help. I remember what it was like to be in a shelter.

Yesterday was a quite day for me. Mom and dad went to a place called Worcester, MA to a vegetarian festival. I couldn't go to that- although I do enjoy vegetarian dog food once in awhile! Mom and dad took me for my long walk when they came home. We walked down the river trail. I met a Chocolate Lab along the way. He was still a big puppy but very friendly. We had just reached the rocks when I saw two people and a dog walking towards us. It was Copley!!! I was SO happy. I got to walk back with Copley. I am so happy the weather is better now and I can see him again.

My boyfriend, GT comes home from the hospital tomorrow. I am looking forward to seeing him. He has been through so much. Mom said we find out how much our house is worth tonight. The house mom and dad looked at last week with the big yard is still available and has dropped to a price we can afford! I don't know if we can buy it though because we have to sell our house first. We shall see tonight.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>GT Update</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/718694</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 14 Apr 2011 13:09:00 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/718694</guid>
		<description>My boyfriend, GT, had his final surgery today. Everything looks good and there is no sign of infecti ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My boyfriend, GT, had his final surgery today. Everything looks good and there is no sign of infection. He may be home as early as Sunday. Thank you for keeping him in your prayers. Mom and I may go to visit him on Monday if he is up for it. I won't be able to run in the yard with him yet, but it will be nice to see him.

Mom took me on a nice walk down the river trail today. It was a very beautiful day. It rained yesterday so I made it a point to walk through the puddles to cool my paws off. Mom wouldn't let me drink the water though. Mom says we leave for Gettysburg in two weeks.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Trails and Hikes</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/718356</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 11 Apr 2011 10:59:06 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/718356</guid>
		<description>What a Pawsome weekend weather wise! I took my walk later in the day on Saturday because mom and dad ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ What a Pawsome weekend weather wise! I took my walk later in the day on Saturday because mom and dad had get their snow tires off their cars. Boy, was I glad we waited! Mom had planned for us to take the nature trail. We were walking down Winter Street when I saw two people and a dog up ahead. I couldn't believe my eyes!! It was Copley!!! I hadn't seen Copley since my birthday party! I almost pulled daddy off his feet. Plans quickly changed and I got to walk with Copley down the river trail. We went passed the rocks this time. Copley and I had a lot of fun sniffing everything. He has a good nose too. Our moms and dads talked in human language and Copley and I caught up in our own way. I was sad when we ended up having to part ways. I hope I see him again soon.

On Sunday we went hiking up Mt. Misery. I don't know why they call it that but that is the name. I had a lot of fun. We didn't exactly climb a mountain but we did explore the wooded trails all around it. There were a lot of hills to climb though. Mom said that climbing hills is good for your butt. I don't know about mom, but my butt is just fine thank you! We did meet a husky puppy on the trails. He was nice. We also met a black lab as we were heading for the car. It was a nice change of scenery and a good workout.

My boyfriend, GT was back in surgery this morning. His incision was very ugly and he was oozing fluid. The doctors were afraid that there was more tissue damage and wanted to check. They still haven't diagnosed anything and cancer is still a fear. Please continue to pray for him. Mom was hoping to visit him in the hospital today with aunt Carla, but I don't think he will be up for it. We are waiting now for any news. Mom took me for a nice walk on the river trail. It was hot outside. I was panting. Mom wouldn't let me drink from the puddles. I was glad to get home to my water bowl. Mom said she will bring water next time. 

The mail came and we received our information package from Greyhounds In Gettysburg! Mom was reading it over. She likes to plan our activities. I am getting excited. I hope that GT is home and OK by the time we leave.

Mom got a call from Aunt Carla. Aunt Carla was crying on the phone and want me and mom to come for a visit. We jumped in the car and mom drove us. I had fun running around the yard with Gill and the Italian Greyhounds. It was hot out so Aunt Carla brought out a big bowl of cool water. Mom and Aunt Carla sat on the deck and enjoyed the sun. I would go from the yard to the deck to the yard again. Mom said it was 73 degrees out! Aunt Carla is visiting GT tonight at the hospital. She we let us know any news.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Diary Pick Of The Day!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/717985</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 8 Apr 2011 07:38:53 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/717985</guid>
		<description>Wow! My diary was chosen as the pick of the day! I am so excited and very honored! Thank you Dogster ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Wow! My diary was chosen as the pick of the day! I am so excited and very honored! Thank you Dogster.

I saw lots of different animals on my long walk tonight. Dad came home early from work so he was able to go with me and mom. We walked down the river trail again to the rocks and back. I also saw something else that was very strange. There were two people riding one bicycle! I never saw anything like that before! It was very long. Mom called it a tandem bike. The two people were trying to ride it on the dirt trail but the tires were too narrow. They had to turn around and go back to the pavement. We saw two beavers in the water. They were carrying sticks in their mouths. One of them slapped his tail on the water and dove under. It was fun watching them. Next we saw the alpacas. They live there so we always see them. They are very curious about me. I touched noses with one of them once. When we got to the rocks we saw two ducks and two swans. One of the swans was nesting. On our way back we saw a chipmunk and a cat. We didn't see any other dogs though! I always look for other dogs to meet. It was another nice day.

Mom said that she is going to organize some dog walks for  MayDOG (Maynard Dog Owners Group). That should be fun! 

Please keep my new boyfriend, GT, in your prayers. He was rushed to the emergency Vets yesterday and had surgery today. The Vets don't know exactly what is wrong with him yet. He has muscle trauma, swelling and a fever. The mystery is that everything that is wrong is on the inside! The doctors removed dead tissue today and sent a sample to the lab. He is in the ICU and I am very worried.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Communing With Nature</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/717920</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 7 Apr 2011 11:18:36 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/717920</guid>
		<description>It has been nice weather for the last two days. Yesterday it was about 54 degrees. Mom and I took ou ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It has been nice weather for the last two days. Yesterday it was about 54 degrees. Mom and I took our walk on the river tail. We made it all the way to the rocks this time! It was still muddy in places, but the snow is all gone. The whole trail was passable. Mom sat on the rocks for a few minutes and we enjoyed looking at the river. We met another woman and her dog, but the woman didn't want to let us greet each other. Mom tried to explain that I can't always meet other dogs.

Today we went for an extra long walk! Mom didn't want to do the river trail again so she took me to another trail. This one is a one mile nature loop trail that is also close to our house. We have to walk about a mile to get to it. It was very peaceful in the woods. Mom followed the white marks on some of the trees. She told me that is how we stay on the right trail. Some trees had orange marks but we didn't follow those. Lots of wonderful, wild smells in the woods. Things are starting to come back to life after the long Winter. Mom and I saw some Downy Woodpeckers! They were pretty! Today it was even warmer. It was about 56 degrees. Mom just wore her sweatshirt. We walked for about an hour! I am tired now. I had a lot of fun, but it is good to be back home.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>My Adventure to Minute Man Park</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/717565</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 4 Apr 2011 09:25:15 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/717565</guid>
		<description>I am so glad that the weather is getting better. Yesterday, mom and dad took me to a Greyhound Adven ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I am so glad that the weather is getting better. Yesterday, mom and dad took me to a Greyhound Adventures walk at the Minute Man Park in Lincoln. It is only 20 minutes from our house. It was a nice sunny day with no clouds in the sky. The wind was cold but it was 50 degrees out. About 30 or 40 dogs came! I got to see some old friends who I haven't seen in awhile. Louise, Zero and Brutus where there! Johnny B and Sonie came too! We went on an hour walk along the trails. I had a lot of fun. Daddy said that I greeted every single dog who was there. I think he was right! After the walk, mom and dad went to the visitor's center to try to find a garbage can. There weren't any at all! Mom, dad and I were going to visit Grampy in NH and mom and dad didn't want to have to transport my bags in the car for over an hour. Mom and dad think they stink. They don't bother me at all! I guess humans just don't enjoy good smells like we do! Mom and dad stopped at a place called McDonalds. We didn't buy anything there. Mom said the food they sell isn't healthy. Daddy deposited my bags in their garbage can! From there we went to NH. Mom and dad were hungry so I had to wait in the car for a few minutes while they had lunch. It was nice out and they left the windows open a bit for me. There was a nice cool breeze. I just napped. They weren't gone long. Mom says that soon it will be too hot for me in the car. After lunch we went to the pet store. I like this pet store. They sell these peanut butter cookies there. Mom and dad can't find them at the stores where we live. When we visit Grampy we always buy a couple of bags. Mom also bought cat food for Aunt Blackie, a cookie for me and a long pork stick. When we went to pay for the things we bought, the lady behind the counter asked daddy if he wanted to round up the bill to the nearest dollar to help a greyhound rescue!!! The only problem was that it would only be a penny! Mom asked if we could donate a dollar instead. The lady said that we couldn't because it didn't work like that. Mom looked around and grabbed a lollipop treat for 39 cents. That way we could at least give 60 cents to the greyhound rescue! While we were line people were asking about me. Since we were in NH, everyone knew about the race track I used to run at. I felt like a local celebrity!
I had fun at Grampy's! Mostly I ate my goodies and napped. I also got to run in Grampy's yard. Mom and dad came out with me and played with me. I was running and jumping all around. Grampy watched from the window and he was enjoying me having fun. It was a wonderful day!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Acorns and Olive</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/717358</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 2 Apr 2011 12:10:42 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/717358</guid>
		<description>There are some times that I wish I could talk with words the way humans do. It would make things eas ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ There are some times that I wish I could talk with words the way humans do. It would make things easier. Mom took me for a walk on Wednesday. She wanted to take a long walk as it was a nice day out. I wanted to take a long walk too- until I stepped on an acorn and it got lodged in my left hind foot! That is the foot that I broke on the race track. It is different now. My vet said it is more splayed out. It hurt but I tried not to complain. I didn't know how to make mom understand that it was in my foot! I decided I would try to get mom to take the shortest route back home. Thankfully it worked. Mom encouraged me to keep going but I stood still before White Ave (shortest walk) and refused to move. Mom gave in. Mom told me she didn't understand why I didn't want to go for a long walk and seemed a bit disappointed. I was happy to get home and lay down on my bed. Luckily Mom is pretty intuitive and sensed something wasn't quite right. She checked my feet and found it! Oh it felt so good to get that stupid acorn out of my foot. Mom showed it to me.

On Thursday we went for a longer walk. We did the river trail until the place that still had snow and mud. On our way back home we met our neighbor, Olive! Usually I walk by Olive's house and she always barks at me from the window. She is very friendly and always wants to play. Sometimes I think she is going to break the window! We got to play for a few minutes on our leashes. It would have been more fun to be off the leash but considering we were playing in the middle of the road, that wouldn't have been the best idea. Olive was very happy to be going for a walk too.

No long walk yesterday! It was April first and Mother Nature played a very mean April Fools joke on us! It snowed! It also rained! Yuck! I stayed in most of the day. One good thing about April snow is that it doesn't stay around very long. Today it is beautiful and in the 50's. Most of it has already melted. Mom, dad and me just got back from a very nice long walk. Mom says I will be having an adventure tomorrow! Can't wait!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Surprise Play Date!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/716693</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 28 Mar 2011 14:44:37 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/716693</guid>
		<description>It was a slow weekend for me. With the weather getting nicer, mom and dad have been taking me on lon ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It was a slow weekend for me. With the weather getting nicer, mom and dad have been taking me on long walks. On Friday, mom took me to the enchanted forest at noon to do my duty. She has to be at work early that day so we don't have time to go for a long walk. I went into the woods and there was a white cat crouched down in the leaves. He didn't seem too happy to see me. I don't chase cats so he didn't have to worry. Mom encouraged me to continue along the path so I did. I did my duty and when we went back, the cat was still there. I think he was watching me the whole time. I wanted him to know I was friendly and wanted to play, so I did a play bow. I don't think he understood because he arched his back and hissed at me. I just don't understand cats!

Nothing exciting happened over the weekend. I went on walks with mom and dad and made my weekly trip to the pet store. Today was Monday and nothing exciting ever happens on Monday- except today! I was ready to go for my walk down Winter Street but mom took me to the enchanted forest instead. She told me we were going on a trip later in the afternoon. Sure enough, around 3 o'clock, mom put my harness on and told me to get into the car. I was really hoping I wouldn't be going to Boston again. I was really happy when we arrived at Aunt Carla's. I practically pulled mom to the front door. I got to run and play with both GT and Gill! I think GT is my boyfriend now. Gill doesn't seem to be that interested in me anymore. Mom was there to help Aunt Carla clip Maya's nails. Maya is an Italian Greyhound. She is my friend too. She really hates having her nails done and has to take medicine to keep her calm. Mom had to hold her while Aunt Carla did her nails. She was squirming and struggling to get away. I even showed Maya that it didn't hurt! I let Aunt Carla clip my nails too! We visited for about 2 hours and I got to run outside a lot. It was fun. I didn't want to leave. Mom had to pull me back to the car! Mom told me that I could go back again soon to play again. It was a nice surprise for a Monday afternoon.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>A Run with Gill at Gates Pond</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/715670</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 20 Mar 2011 09:11:41 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/715670</guid>
		<description>Yesterday was a wonderful day! Mom and dad took me for a long walk on Winter Street. I haven't been  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yesterday was a wonderful day! Mom and dad took me for a long walk on Winter Street. I haven't been able to go there for most of the Winter because of all the ice. Now that Spring is here, I can go for my walks there again. The river trail still has ice and snow. It will be another week or so before that is ready. 

When it came time for my evening walk, mom and dad had me get in the car! At first I was afraid I might be going to Boston again! Mom told me not to worry and that I would like where we were going. I laid down on the street and tried to relax. When the car stopped, I looked out my window and I knew where I was! It was Gates Pond, the Hudson, MA reservoir! Less than a minute later, Aunt Carla drove up with Gill and GT!!! We got to take another long walk around the pond. It is about a 3 mile loop but mom said I probably went 4 or 5 miles! Parts of the trail were muddy but most of the snow was gone. Only a few spots still had snow. Daddy let me off leash with Gill. We ran and sniffed and had a wonderful time! GT had to stay on his leash because he gets scared of people. I stayed close to mom and dad for the most part. If I went too far, mom would call me and I would come right back. We were about half way around when Gill asked me if I wanted to race! I said "Sure!" We took off like rockets! We ran up the trail, turned around and ran back to our humans. We did this 3 or 4 times at full speed! I think I won!!! It was fun!! I felt bad for GT because he couldn't run with us. We met some other dogs and humans on the trail too. One was a German Shepherd Puppy named Zoe. She liked to lick me in the face. I was sad when daddy put the leash back on. I knew we were almost back to the car. Gill got leashed too. I had so much fun! I slept very well last night!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Boston!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/715360</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 17 Mar 2011 14:35:10 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/715360</guid>
		<description>Today was one of the biggest days of my life! After breakfast, mom got my harness on and had me hop  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today was one of the biggest days of my life! After breakfast, mom got my harness on and had me hop in the car. She told me that this was the day we were going to Boston. I had no idea what "Boston" was, but I could tell that mom was both excited and anxious. I was both happy and surprised when we ended up at Aunt Carla's house. We went inside for only a few minutes and then Aunt Carla put the leash on Gill. We walk over to Aunt Carla's car. I was a bit confused when mom asked me to get inside. After a short hesitation I got in. I sat in the back seat and Gill rode behind me in the rear compartment. Mom and Aunt Carla drove to the Especially For Pets store in Action where we met two other women. I recognized one of them as Julie. She has come to all my birthday parties. Then we drove for a long time. We went into this tunnel under ground where there were lots of cars. We parked the car and I was finally allowed to get out. It smelled funny and was kind of dark. I just followed Gill, my mom and Aunt Carla. I had no idea where I was. Wouldn't you know it- we ended up in one of those moving rooms!!! Mom calls them "elevators". All I know is that you are in one place, you walk through the door, it closes and then the room moves! When the doors open you are in a totally different place! Sure enough the doors opened and we were in some fancy building with slippery floors! From there we found a door to the street. Guess what? I was in Boston! It was a very strange place! Big tall buildings everywhere. No trees or grass, loud noises and lots of cars and people. I didn't really like "Boston". Mom said it was a city! We walked for a short ways and then I saw other greyhounds. Mom had made a sign and she was carrying that, her bag and holding on to me. I just kept close to Gill. He seemed to know more about this "Boston" thing. We met the other greyhounds and people. They all had signs too. Mom told me that the Irish greyhound breeders want to sell greyhounds to China. China is not a good place for any animal. They have no animal protection laws there and it is a place where people skin dogs alive and eat them!! My Irish brothers and sisters would end up in a terrible place and suffer a horrible death. I don't want that to happen. So we stood there with our signs and passed out fliers. I met some very nice people. I even met Christine Dorchak! She is the head of Grey2K USA. She has helped to stop greyhound racing in many states including NH where I was born and raced and MA where I live. I met her greyhound Zoe. It was an honor to meet Christine. She knows mom and they talked a lot. I met a really nice man who loved dogs. His dog just died and he was very sad. I could tell. I let him pet me. We stayed in Boston for about 2 hours. I was glad when mom and Aunt Carla decided to leave. I was tired and I really don't like Boston. We stopped at a park so I would have some grass to relieve myself. Then we went back the the fancy building with slippery floors and into the room that moved. I don't like the room that moves but I knew I had to go into it to get back to the car. Gill didn't seem to mind. I hoped right back into Aunt Carla's car! I was happy to get back to Aunt Carla's house. She let me run around the big back yard with her other greyhound GT and all the Italian Greyhounds. I had fun. I was a bit hot so I rolled around in some of the left over snow. I ever laid down in it for a few seconds. Aunt Carla got us all a big bowl of cool water. That tasted SO good! GT was very friendly to mom. Mom used to walk him when he was the kennel at Greyhound Friends. He remembered her. I am very happy to be home now. I hope I helped my Irish bothers and sisters. I hope Ireland doesn't sell any dogs to China. We can only hope!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Sleep Over!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/714827</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 14 Mar 2011 14:42:37 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/714827</guid>
		<description>Wow! What a busy weekend I had. On Saturday I had a sleep over at my boyfriend, Gill's house! Daddy  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Wow! What a busy weekend I had. On Saturday I had a sleep over at my boyfriend, Gill's house! Daddy had to be in a skating show at MIT. He is one of the teachers/coaches there. He teaches Ice Dancing to the students. Every year they put on a performance. Daddy had to skate in 4 dances! He had to get there early to help set up and have a dress rehearsal and help clean up after. Mom and dad asked my usual dog walker if she could take me for my evening walk, but it was short notice and she couldn't walk with me. My Aunt Carla invited me to stay at her house to hang out with Gill and his brother GT! Since mom and dad were getting home very late, I spent the night. Mom brought my bed, my duck and my food. Aunt Carla has a huge fenced in yard and I got to run and play outside ( thankfully the pool was still covered so I didn't go swimming this time!). I did miss mom and dad, but I ate my supper and had fun. Mom and dad picked me up early the next morning. They were both still tired and they said they missed me. I was happy to see them too. I got a final run in the yard and mom gathered my belongings. I got out to the car and decided that I would rather stay with Aunt Carla! I refused to get into the car. Mom and dad had to coax me in. I finally got in. Daddy said our next house will have a bigger yard for me.

On Sunday we drove to Grampy's house to bring his cat Blackie home. Grampy is doing OK and has visiting nurses come to help him out. He also has physical therapy. He isn't allowed to drive just yet. We stopped off at the pet store to get food for Blackie and I also got some treats and a huge donut cookie! Just like a kid, I licked all the frosting off the cookie before I ate it! It was yummy! I got to run in Grampy's yard too. I think Blackie was happy to be home again. Mom and dad helped do some chores- laundry, cleaning Blackie's litter box, vacuuming and putting out Grampy's recycling. They also took Grampy out to dinner to get him out of the house. I had to stay home with Blackie. It was a fun weekend. 

Something is up for later this week. Mom was telling me about it. The Irish greyhound breeders want to sell racing greyhounds to China! China is NOT a good place to be a dog! They eat dogs there and mom said there are no animal protection laws! Mom, Aunt Carla and a bunch of others are going to Boston to protest on St. Patrick's Day! I think I am going to Boston too! So is Gill! I have never been to a city before. Mom is making a poster. It looks pretty good so far. I will be sure to let everyone know what happens- stay tuned!!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>It Has Been A Stressful Time</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/714299</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 10 Mar 2011 06:14:36 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/714299</guid>
		<description>Mom hasn't had much time to write my diary for me lately, but things are getting better now. We have ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom hasn't had much time to write my diary for me lately, but things are getting better now. We have had a guest in our home for the last month. Grampy's cat Blackie has been staying with us. We call her Aunt Blackie. Now I don't even pretend to understand cats! We just speak a whole different language. Blackie, however, baffles me more than Ben and Charlie. I kind of have them figured out- at least a little- and we get along pretty well. Blackie is a whole different story. She hisses, growls and screams anytime any of us gets close to her! We don't even do anything to her! The best part is that she will be going home this Sunday. Grampy had been discharged from the nursing home (at least for now) and is back home. He has the assistance of visiting nurses and rehab coming to help him. Mom and dad took Blackie for her annual check up at our vets to help Grampy out. He won't be driving too far at first and he needs a walker to get around now. It will be nice not going to nursing homes.

I had a meet and greet this past Sunday. It was at Pet Source in Lexington. Johnny B, Sonie and Bronson were there with me. It was a slow day. Not that many customers came in. The last time we were there it was very busy. You just can never tell. I had fun socializing with my greyhound friends though and there are always treats involved!

The weather is getting better and a lot of the snow is gone. We can go back into the back yard again. I did a little running this morning. It felt good to stretch my muscles. I have to get in shape for Gettysburg.

Well it is time for a nap. More later!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My Grampy Has Been  very Sick</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/710945</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 11 Feb 2011 11:14:05 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/710945</guid>
		<description>That is why Mom hasn't had a chance to write my diary for me lately. The last time we visited him in ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ That is why Mom hasn't had a chance to write my diary for me lately. The last time we visited him in the nursing home, he was very weak. A few days later mom got a call that he had fallen when he had tried to stand up. Thankfully he was OK. A couple of days later mom tried to call him but she wasn't getting an answer. She got worried and called the nursing home to make sure everything was OK. It wasn't! Grampy was in the hospital in Intensive Care! He had congestive heart failure and kidney failure. The nursing home never called us to tell us. Mom was very angry. Last weekend mom and dad went to visit him. I wasn't allowed in the hospital so I stayed at Grampy's house. I stayed with grampy's cat, Blackie. She doesn't like me very much. She hisses at me and runs away. I don't chase her or anything! When mom and dad got back from their visit we headed home. You can imagine my surprise when Blackie came home with us too!!! She has been staying in the computer room to get adjusted. I guess I have a new sister! Grampy had surgery 2 days ago. They put a new pace maker into his chest to help his heart. Today he is going to another nursing home. Mom says we are going to visit him tomorrow. She will call in the morning to make sure I can come. Mom and dad took Blackie to the vets to make sure she was healthy. Mom got the results back today. Her blood work was all perfect. Mom has been trying to introduce her to all of us. Blackie saw Charlie and started to come out of the room. Then she saw me and ran back under the bed! I don't know why she is afraid of me. Later mom let Ben into the room. Ben and Blackie hissed and growled at each other. I really don't understand cats at all. If it was another dog, we would be all tail waggy and happy to meet each other. Dogs are much more civilized than cats. Charlie is annoying too. He follows me everywhere I go and keeps rubbing up against my legs. Mom laughs, but I really don't think it is funny! Now I have to put up with 3 of them!!! Help me!!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Visiting Grampy</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/708266</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 22 Jan 2011 06:39:19 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/708266</guid>
		<description>We have been getting a lot of snow here the last couple of weeks. There really isn't any place left  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We have been getting a lot of snow here the last couple of weeks. There really isn't any place left to put any more. One storm was over 18 inches! Both mom and dad stayed home that day. A couple of days later we got another storm. This one had snow followed by ice pellets! That made everything slippery. Yesterday we got about 6 more inches! I like running in the soft snow as long as there isn't too much of it. If it is too deep and crusty, I don't like it. Mom had made paths for me in the yard. I run up and down the paths. With all the tall snow banks I have a hard time finding a place to do my business. Also mom can't take me for long walks because of the ice. Mom has a bad back and she is very afraid of falling. I can understand that. I hope Spring comes soon!

Last weekend we went to visit Grampy. He wasn't at his usual house! Mom explained to me that he is very sick and not doing very well. He has a bad heart and his kidneys aren't working like they should. He is also very weak. Grampy is staying in a nursing home/rehabilitation center. I had never been to one before. Mom said that some dogs work in these places. They visit the old and sick people that live there. I must admit the place kind of smelled like a Vets office. There were long hallways with lots of rooms. We finally found Grampy. I recognized him but he was attached to this strange machine that made hissing noises. Mom said it made oxygen for Grampy to breath better. I got used to it after awhile. Daddy brought my blanket for me to lay down on because the floors were hard. There were other strange objects in the room. Mom told me they were wheel chairs and walkers.I did fine actually. I wasn't too uncomfortable and was able to lie down and relax. We visited for awhile. Grampy was happy to see us. It was a long drive in the car to get there. When we left I met another dog. He was little terrier mix. I was happy to see him at first, but then he just kept barking at me! I didn't do anything! I gave him calming signals and ignored him. Still he kept on barking until we left. Mom says we will go back to visit again soon. I hope Grampy gets better. I like his house better.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Kong Goodies</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/706986</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 11 Jan 2011 20:36:42 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/706986</guid>
		<description>On January first mom received an E-mail saying that I had won the Kong give away raffle in The Great ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ On January first mom received an E-mail saying that I had won the Kong give away raffle in The Great Greyhound Book! I have been waiting patiently for it to arrive. When mom got home from work this noon time, a huge box was waiting outside the front door. Mom brought it inside and opened it for me. I was on my bed downstairs and helped her to unwrap my prize. I must say I was overwhelmed. So many new toys and treats! I didn't know where to begin! I got a new black Kong. Mom squirted some of the peanut butter stuffing inside for me. That was so good. I really enjoyed licking it out. When we got back from our noon walk, mom put another chew treat inside the Kong. I was able to get most of it but a piece stuck inside and I couldn't get it out! I carried the Kong upstairs to my other bed to work on it there. No matter how hard I tried I just couldn't get the rest of the treat out. Mom tried too. She tried for half an hour and even she couldn't get it out! Now daddy is trying! I think it will be stuck in there forever!!! Mom said she isn't going to put that kind of treat in there again. Anyway, I want to say Thank You to Kong. I'm a very happy dog! Mom took a picture of me with all my goodies.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Happy New Year</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/705935</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 2 Jan 2011 18:04:54 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/705935</guid>
		<description>A very happy New Year to all my pup pals out there! 2011 should be a greyt year!. It started off rea ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ A very happy New Year to all my pup pals out there! 2011 should be a greyt year!. It started off really great for me! You may remember telling you that I am in an Online E-book called The Great Greyhound Book. Proceeds from this book are going to help 10 different greyhound rescue groups. In the back of the book, there was a give away contest. The winner would receive a Kong gift basket worth $100! The drawing took place Dec.31st. Mom entered me for the drawing and then she forgot about it. New Years Day, mom went to check her E-mail and had an E-mail from the woman who made The Great Greyhound Book. Guess what? I won the gift basket!!! I LOVE my Kong, especially when it has peanut butter in it! I can't wait until it gets here. Mom says I am very lucky at winning things. This is the 3rd basket I have won in 2 years! I have also won 2 costume contests. Mom says she is going to let me buy lottery tickets!!

Mom also gave me some exciting news! I am going to Gettysburg,PA in late April/early May. They have a big greyhound event there called Greyhounds In Gettysburg. They have all sorts of greyhound events and activities. Mom and dad registered me and we even booked our hotel room! I have never been in a hotel before! Money raised from this event will also help greyhound rescue. It will be a long car drive. Mom says about 7 or 8 hours. They will stop at rest stops so we can all stretch our legs. It should be a lot of fun.

Grammy is all moved in to her new apartment. It is in an assisted living community. She now lives only a half hour away. We went to visit her tonight. Mom and dad says that I could go and visit. It is a big building and grammy lives on the 4th floor. Mom and dad tricked me. They got me into the strange room that moves. I am not sure what it is exactly but I know I don't like it!! You push a button and the door opens. It looks like a room and when everyone gets inside the door closes. Then the room moves!!! It feels like the floor is moving and it is scary! When the door opens again you are in a totally new place!!! How does that happen???!!! Mom said it is an elevator. I don't really understand it. We had a nice visit. Aunt Ruth was there too. Grammy's place is small but very nice. I explored it and gave it a good sniffing. After the visit mom and dad made me get into that room again!!! I didn't want to go. Daddy had to pull me in. Once I was in, I walked around and around in circles. The door opened and we were back where we were when we came in. I was OK after that. Mom said there might be moving rooms in our hotel! I hope not!! I think these rooms are dimensional portals or something. I learned that on Doctor Who!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Merry Christmas</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/704796</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 25 Dec 2010 13:31:47 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/704796</guid>
		<description>I hope Santa was good to all my Pup Pals out there.
Yesterday I spent the day with mom and Grampy.  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I hope Santa was good to all my Pup Pals out there.
Yesterday I spent the day with mom and Grampy. We left the house early in the morning to get there. Daddy dropped me and mom off. He had to go to his mom's house to help her get ready to move. Grammy is moving the Monday after Christmas to a new home. Daddy took her to get a few things and help her pack. It was nice spending the day with mom and grampy. Mom brought all the comforts of home. She brought my bed and a toy, my food and water bowls and treats. I got to play in grampy's big back yard. It was a quiet day, but very nice. Daddy joined us about 5PM. Later, mom and dad left to go to a candle light Christmas Eve service at the church mom used to go to when she lived at grampy's house. Dogs aren't allowed for some reason, so I stayed with grampy. I was very good.

Today was Christmas! I got presents! They were wrapped in pretty paper and had bows on them. I was having trouble opening them, so mom helped me. I got a new collar! I'm wearing it now! Mom said she will wash my other one. I also got a toy plush ball from Santa Claus and 3 boxes of Boston Baked Bonz treats! If you dogs out there have never tried Boston Baked Bonz, tell your mom and dad to Google it! They make the best treats I have ever had! Mom and dad got me Peanut Butter cookies, apple muffins and ginger snaps! Yummy!! They are all organic too! We took a walk down Main Street this afternoon. Mom mailed out my dog license registration for next year. I need my license to drive after all! You know-- "Go Greyhound and leave the driving to us!" BOL!!! Merry Christmas!!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I Got Caught Shop Lifting!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/702996</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 12 Dec 2010 13:46:13 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/702996</guid>
		<description>It was a nice weekend. Mom wanted to make something called a Christmas Kissing Ball. We used to have ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It was a nice weekend. Mom wanted to make something called a Christmas Kissing Ball. We used to have a hanging plant outside of our house but it died because it is almost Winter now. Mom looked up how to make one on the internet. Mom took a bag with us on our noon walk and started to collect all these pine cones! I tried to help her find some. I didn't know she wanted so many of them. We got home and daddy got home from skating a short time after. Mom decided making the kissing ball was going to be too much work after all!! This is after we had collected all these pine cones!!! Anyway, after we went to the pet store we started to check out places that sold Christmas trees to see if they had any. The first place only had trees. Next mom and dad checked out the grocery store near the pet store. I waited in the car. Mom said they had one left but it was dried out and the pine needles were falling off. Mom remembered a place down the road so daddy drove us there. Sure enough, they had trees, wreaths and kissing balls! As daddy pulled the car up mom saw a kissing ball that had purple ribbons and decorations on it! Mom got all excited! We got out of the car and daddy said we could buy it. This one was nice and in very good condition. Daddy went inside to pay for it. Mom and I walked around outside looking at all the other Christmas decorations they had. Daddy asked the lady inside if dogs were allowed in and she said "yes". Mom and I went inside to look around. They had all of these beautiful plants called poinsettia. Mom was looking at all the different ones. They all looked alike to me, but then I don't see the same colors as mom and dad does. Then mom saw a poinsettia that was very different and unique. It is white with a pale pink in the middle. Mom bought it. I was eager to get home because my cookie and flossie was still in the bag with the pet food. Mom hung up her kissing ball and was happy. I was happy that she was happy.

Today we had a meet and greet at the Pet Source in Lexington, MA. Pet Source is the pet store I always go to, but this was a different store. The lady said they have 4 Pet Sources. I had been to this one a couple of times before. Johnny B and Sonie were there with their mom and dad. We got the table all set up and put down the dog beds. Mom thought it might be a slow day because the weather isn't very nice. It is raining and very cold. Boy, was she wrong! We were there for a little while when Bronson and his family came. Then another greyhound who I have never met before came. I can't remember her name. Next a lady came who was VERY interested in adopting one of us. She had seen the flier and had made a special trip just to meet us. We all did a very good job at charming her. I know my homeless brothers and sisters out there would love to live with this nice lady. Then another greyhound named Billy came with his family. There was a small boy that belonged to Billy. I was very brave and let him pet me. He was quiet and gentle so I liked him. We got a lot of donations too! Anyway, this is where I got caught! The table and our dog beds were next to where the raw hides, bones, pigs ears and other yummy things were displayed. Most of them were wrapped up so you couldn't eat them. There was, however, a box of bully sticks that was open. I went to sniff them and they smelled really good. Mom and dad both told me "leave it". I did. I was good.... until they weren't looking! Mom and dad were talking to people and.... I took one! Mom and dad both noticed about the same time. I was lying on Johnny B's bed munching away at the bully stick! This was something that couldn't be eaten too fast either. Luckily daddy paid for it. It cost $2. Mom and dad weren't very mad. I'm glad about that. Since I worked so hard meeting and greeting people, they said that I deserved it. Mom said though that I should ask next time and can't just take things like that. I'll try to remember!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Dogster Daily Diary Pick!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/702832</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 11 Dec 2010 05:45:56 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/702832</guid>
		<description>I just got the E-mail this morning that my dairy was selected to be featured today! Wow! What an hon ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I just got the E-mail this morning that my dairy was selected to be featured today! Wow! What an honor. Mom has worked hard typing my diary for me. It is a record of my life since I was rescued from the Seabrook Greyhound Track almost 2 years ago. It has been a fun and wild adventure and I have come such a long way. Before mom and dad rescued me, I only knew the race track and a tiny cage. That was my whole life. I had no idea that there was a big wide other world out there! Mom and dad want me to have a rich full life to make up for the first 2 1/2 years I spent at the track. I think they are doing a great job! I hope you enjoy my diary!]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>The Maynard Holiday Parade!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/702161</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 5 Dec 2010 13:45:52 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/702161</guid>
		<description>I was in a parade today! It was the annual Maynard Holiday Parade. I marched with MayDOG which is th ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I was in a parade today! It was the annual Maynard Holiday Parade. I marched with MayDOG which is the Maynard Dog Owner's Group. We had about 12 dogs come to march. I thought it was strange that mom and dad hadn't taken me for my walk yet. I usually go out between noon and 1PM. Here it was almost 1:30 before mom put my coat on. I tried to go towards Winter Street like I usually do, but daddy told me we were taking the rail trail instead. It is a short wooded path that runs right by our house. I go there sometimes so it wasn't that unusual. We walked to the end and then mom and dad walked me off the trail and on to a side road. There were lots of people and cars about so I knew something was different. I was glad that I did my business in the woods along the trail. Cars and people were going into a big parking lot. I knew we were headed there too because we had marched last year. When we got there I saw other dogs standing around with their people. We met up with them. I recognized Sammy who had been at my birthday party. There was also another greyhound. I was happy to see him. There were people in strange costumes and people playing weird musical instruments that kind of hurt my ears. Mom called them bagpipes. There were also a lot of children. Mom said they were with the Boy Scouts and the Girl Scouts. A few minutes later, Kiera came with her mom, Lisa. I was happy to see Kiera too. It is nice to have friends close by when things are strange. Daddy said it was about 2 O'clock which was when the parade was to begin. Fire trucks and ambulances started blowing the sirens and making a whole lot of noise. The bagpipes started playing again. I watched as people, bands and floats started to leave the parking lot. We had to wait. We were following the boy scouts. It seemed like forever before we started to walk. Mom said that just for now, we could walk in the road where the cars usually go. I am usually never allowed to walk there. I just followed the other dogs. There were lots of people gathered along the side of the road. I wasn't really scared much except when two young boys made a crackling sound with something on the road. I jumped a little. Mom wasn't happy about that. We walked a long way. People kept saying "look at the doggies" and "Hi Doggies". I just kept walking with mom and dad. Some dogs were watching the parade with their humans. Rob, who is Sammy's dad and the president of MayDOG, handed out dog treats and brochures so other dogs can join our group. I was glad and tired when it was over. Mom and dad took me home a different way than we had come. I was happy to be able to lie down on my bed. It was cold outside today- 39 degrees. I was happy I had my jacket. Kiera's dad took some pictures of us. Mom put one up on my page. I am in my purple coat!]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>I met Santa Claus!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/701249</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 27 Nov 2010 18:09:53 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/701249</guid>
		<description>I hope everyone had a fun, safe Thanksgiving. I went to New Hampshire with mom and dad to have Thank ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I hope everyone had a fun, safe Thanksgiving. I went to New Hampshire with mom and dad to have Thanksgiving with the family. First we went to cousin Leila's. She hosted the dinner this year. Grandma and Auntie Ruth came to dinner too. Mom brought me special treats so I wouldn't feel left out. I don't think my two feline cousins were all that happy to see me though. They mostly hid and didn't come too close to me. After dinner we went to visit Grandpa. Mom got some things out of Grandpa's attic. One of thing things she brought home was a tree!! It wasn't a real tree though. Daddy piled a lot of boxes into the trunk. I was surprised everything fit in the car. 

Yesterday mom and dad decorated for Christmas. Mom took the tree out of the box. It was just branches and a stand. Mom started to fix the branches and put them into the stand. Daddy helped too. Before you know it, it looked like a real tree! Then mom and dad put lights on it, wrapped something called garland and then balls, angels and white doves went on it. I must admit it is very pretty. Mom and dad also decorated the railings and the bush in front of our house. I can see the lights when I go for my evening walk! 

Today was such an exciting day! After my noon walk, we all got into the car. Daddy drove us to Especially For Pets. It is further away from the pet store near my house, but we go to this store sometimes too. Mom put my holiday bandanna on so I would look festive. We waited awhile in the big dog training room with some other dogs. After awhile a lady came and called my name. I went down the hall and there was Santa Claus! I got a present from him. Mom says I can't have it yet. I have to wait until Christmas! I had my picture taken with Santa! Mom and dad came with me because I was a little nervous. Who wouldn't be nervous meeting Santa?! I got lots of wonderful treats too! After we came home, mom and dad went to our usual pet store. I didn't want to go because I was tired. Vito's mom work's there. Vito was supposed to come to my party but he has had surgery on his knees and his doctor told him it would be too much for him. Vito had a present for me! He got me a stuffed lamb of my own!! You see, a while ago, mom bought a purple stuffed lamb. She kept it!!! I'm not kidding! Mom has a "thing" for stuffed animals and her favorite color is purple. She bought the lamb for her!! Now I have one too! Mine is pink. I love it!! I also got more treats from Vito. It was such a wonderful day. Mom says I have another meet and greet tomorrow. My friend Troy will be there. I like hanging out with Troy. He is a good shopper too. He picked out my birthday present and got me a stuffed duck. It is one of my favorites and I have been sleeping with it every night. Mom is not getting my duck!! BOL!!]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>My Birthday Party!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/699583</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 15 Nov 2010 09:02:40 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/699583</guid>
		<description>Saturday was a good day. I did a meet and greet at the pet store near my house. My friends Johnny B, ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Saturday was a good day. I did a meet and greet at the pet store near my house. My friends Johnny B, Troy and Oscar joined me. It was fun. Troy likes to go shopping and he selected a stuffed red and green Christmas ball from the shelf. I stole it from him when he wasn't looking. The humans were very amused by this. They are so easy to please! After the meet and greet we went shopping for dog and cat food. I got my usual cookie and flossie. When we got home mom and dad took me for a walk around the block and then left together in the car. They came back with all sorts of bags. Then mom walked in with these huge balloons! There were four of them. One was dark blue, one light blue, one yellow and the other green. They were all colors I could see. They smelled funny. It was then I knew something was up. Later in the evening mom and dad left again and came back with some new chairs. Mom and dad were also cleaning up the house. That usually means people are coming over.

Sunday mom and dad went to the gym. They usually do that on Sundays. When they came home, they started cooking. A man came to the door and gave mom and dad a big box. It smelled really good!!! Later that afternoon a car pulled into our driveway. It was Julie. I had met her before. Then another car came and it was Johnny B and his sister Sonie. They went out to my backyard to do their business so mom got my harness on and we went out too. No sooner had we gone out when Kiera arrived. The 4 of us played together in the back yard. The humans had fun watching us. Later more people and dogs arrived- Troy and Oscar came, Sammy came (I met him once before at Kiera's parent's deck party) and then the love of my life, Copley came!!!! I was SO happy. Lots of people brought gifts too. We dogs got a chance to socialize and play. Kiera started to growl at Copley. She can be cranky with other dogs. Sometimes she even gets into fights. I get along with her just fine. Kiera's mom though it would be best to leave. Kiera likes people more than she likes other dogs. Next the humans ate food. We tried to get some but they wouldn't give us any. They told us we had to wait for a bit. Once the humans were done with the food, mom took out the big box the man had brought. She also took out another box. Dad took pictures of the inside of the box and then everyone started to sing "Happy Birthday dear Isis"! Wow!! It was for me! Mom told me I will be 4 tomorrow (Tuesday Nov. 16th). Dad cut the cake which was for us dogs! It was carrot and peanut butter. We all got a big piece! It was SO good. Even shy Sonie ate all of hers. Then dad cut the other cake which was for the humans. After the cake I got to open my gifts. I got a stuffed duck and a stuffed dog. I also got different treats!! I was so happy. A short time after the gifts, everyone started to leave. The first to leave was Copley. I tried to follow him out the door. I cried for a bit. I wanted him to stay. I was pretty tired by the end of the party. I crashed on my bed after everyone was gone. Mom and dad took cake over to Kiera's house. They brought cake for Kiera and her mom and dad. Later I got a second piece of cake. Mom and dad saved me an extra slice. I think I will like being 4 years old.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Great Greyhound Book!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/699146</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 11 Nov 2010 12:02:42 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/699146</guid>
		<description>Happy Veteran's Day to all my doggie pals! Things have been kind of quiet lately, so nothing much to ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Happy Veteran's Day to all my doggie pals! Things have been kind of quiet lately, so nothing much to write about. I will fill you in on the highlights!

One of Mom's Facebook friends put together "The Great Greyhound Book"! It is an on-line book all about greyhounds! It has stories, pictures, poems and other greyhound related things. I'm in it!!! I am on page 13 and there 277 pages to the book. The best part is that all the money made from the book is going to be donated to 10 different shelters. Some of the shelters are in the US and some are in the UK. Mom's friend, who made the book, lives in the UK. One of the shelters that will be receiving donations is Greyhound Friends where mom, dad and I volunteer. Mom even submitted some of my diary entries to the book.

Last Sunday I did a meet and greet at the Petco in Huson. Gill, Fast, Monica and Bunny were there. It was nice hanging out with my friends. I knew all of them. There were several dog beds so we made ourselves comfortable.

It was a nice day out today. Mom and I went for an extra long walk. Mom also washed both my dog beds. I'm glad to have them back. They smell better now. Mom says I will be having a surprise on Sunday. Not sure what it could be??]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>The Invasion!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/695641</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 16 Oct 2010 05:40:14 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/695641</guid>
		<description>Last Sunday was a great day! Mom and dad took me to Gates pond for a walk with the greyhound pack. G ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Last Sunday was a great day! Mom and dad took me to Gates pond for a walk with the greyhound pack. Gill and GT were there and a new greyhound named Ninja. In all we had about 6 Greyhounds, 6 or 7 Italian Greyhounds and about 6 humans. We were quite a sight coming down the trail. Mom and dad let me go off leash again with Gill. I did great! A couple of times I wandered into the woods a bit too far. The minute mom called me, I came right back. I love having some freedom off the leash. Then I can sniff where I want to sniff. We met some people on the trail. I went right up to them and let them pet me! It was so much fun.

I have been doing very well with my stair climbing. I go right upstairs now with no problems at all. Last night, while mom and dad were watching the picture box, I decided to go upstairs. Mom put my new bed up there on the floor so I would have a nice place to sleep. I slept upstairs last night. Mom still hoped I will come to the bedroom but right now, I prefer the hallway.

Thursday, mom took me for a long walk down the river trail. We went all the way to the rocks. Mom likes to sit on the rocks and look at the river. We sat for about 5 minutes before heading back. All was peaceful until I saw movement up ahead. Suddenly there were human children running everywhere!! Some were big and some were small, but all were running down the trail. I freaked out a bit. OK, I freaked out a lot! The children kept coming and coming until the whole trail was covered in them!! Mom just kept moving me forward. We finally reached Winter Street and escaped there! Mom said they were from school. I didn't really care where they all came from. I just wanted them to go back!!

Daddy was home yesterday. He had to go for a dental cleaning. When mom came home from work, we went to the pet store. I got a giant apple cookie. It was tasty. I was a bad dog though this morning. Mom caught me eating Charlie's cat food. Whoops!!! Got to be quicker next time!!!]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>I Went Shopping</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/694669</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 9 Oct 2010 07:39:09 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/694669</guid>
		<description>Mom and dad took me shopping on Thursday night so I could spend my $50 gift card that I won for winn ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom and dad took me shopping on Thursday night so I could spend my $50 gift card that I won for winning the costume contest at Greyhound Friends. They took me to Petco in Hudson, MA. I have done some meet and greets there so I know the store well. It was a hard decision on what to buy but I choose a new dog bed. This one will go right in the washing machine like the one I have now. Mom will be able to rotate them which will be good. I bought the largest one they made because I like to stretch out. I also bought a skunk toy with squeekers. It doesn't have any stuffing in it. I love these toys because I can shake them and toss them. I also got a ball with rubber knobs on it.I would have bought more but mom told me I had used up my gift card. My bed was the most expensive thing. It felt good being able to use my own money to buy stuff. Now that I am retired, I am on a fixed income!! BOL!!!]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Greyhound Friend's Fall Open House</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/694264</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 6 Oct 2010 11:33:02 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/694264</guid>
		<description>Greyhound Friend's had their annual Fall Open House last Sunday. Mom, dad and I worked at the silent ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Greyhound Friend's had their annual Fall Open House last Sunday. Mom, dad and I worked at the silent auction/raffle table again this year. We arrived around 11:15 to help with the set up. The first thing that mom and dad did was get me all set up in my exercise pen. It was a cool day- in the 50's- so mom made sure I had my fleece on to keep warm. Dad brought out the items and mom laid everything out on the tables. There was a slight problem, however. All the clip boards listing the items and bids were in one pile, and all the auction items were in another. This is a 2 day event so some people had already placed bids on some of the items from the day before. There were about 6 different greyhound prints being auctioned. All the bidding sheets just said "greyhound print"! Since we didn't work on Saturday, we had no idea which prints went with which bidding sheet! Mom was all stressed out! Daddy finally had to call the people on the lists and ask them which print they had bid on! Hopefully we got it right! Mom and dad had lunch there. they had hummus and veggie wraps. Mom said they were very good. At 2pm the dog show started. Mom wanted to enter me in the prettiest eyes contest. She got me out of the pen and we went over to watch the dog show. daddy stayed and watched the auction table and sold raffle tickets. Mom didn't bother to enter me it the youngest dog because I am almost 4 now. I also didn't do the longest tail contest this time. I can win the longest tail if I compete against other dog breeds, but against fellow greyhounds, I don't have a chance. My tail is 21 inches and the winner was a whopping 24 1/4 inches!! The Find Your Twin contest was coming up so mom started to look around to see if any other dog looked like me. there weren't many black greyhounds there this year. Then mom noticed Annie. She was smaller than me but she was black with a greying muzzle, had the white tuxedo bib, white paws and a white tip on her tail. She was also the same age as me! Mom asked Annie's mom if she wanted to enter the contest. She said "yes". There were 6 pairs of "twins" that entered. We won!!!! I couldn't believe it! I got a blue ribbon, a dog biscuit and a toy piggy that squeaks! Next was prettiest eyes. There were 8 dogs in this contest. I only got 6th place. Mom said the judges were blind!! BOL!!! As soon as I got my ribbon mom and I jogged back to the table to get my Halloween costume on for the costume contest. I wore the same costume that I wore when I won the pet store contest (Isis goddess of magic- see my photos). Oh I forgot to mention that mom had painted my nails purple again on Saturday!! I was good about getting into the costume except for the hat! I just don't like wearing it. Mom manged to get it on my though. As we headed for the ring I heard people making comments and giggling about my costume. There were 5 dogs competing. The 5th place dog wore a super hero cape. 4th place was a pumpkin. It was a store bought costume and mom says the judges like things more original and creative. 3rd place was one of the shelter dogs looking for a home. He was dressed as a female impersonator! He wore a dress and a wig. Now it was down to 2 dogs. Mom was nervous because my competition was dressed as a Boston Red Sox fan. Most people in my state are Red Sox fanatics! The announcer said "second place- Red Sox fan!" I won!!!!! I got a huge blue ribbon, a box of dog cookies and best of all a $50 Gift Card to Petco!! Mom and dad are taking me shopping this weekend. I was happy to get out of my costume when mom and I returned to out table. Mom hung up my ribbons to show them off. After the dog show was over, daddy took me to the big fenced in field to run. I got to run with Butler and another dog. That was fun. A little while later mom went to visit another booth. It was called Grammies Jammies. Cindy Maxwell's (she is a greyhound)grandmother makes the Jammies. They are a light fleece coat. Lighter than my fleece. Mom bought me one for when it was between 50 and 60 degrees. My fleece is good for 40 to 50 and under 40 I wear my winter jacket. I was still cold so mom put it on my. I don't really need pajamas!  Grammie came to see me in it! Everyone liked it. At the end of the day the raffle items were drawn, the auction items auctioned and after mom and dad helped to clean up, we went home. It was a long and fun day!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Animal Communicator</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/693582</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 1 Oct 2010 11:23:56 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/693582</guid>
		<description>Mom and dad have both been sick this past week. Daddy got it first and gave it to mom. Mom and dad w ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom and dad have both been sick this past week. Daddy got it first and gave it to mom. Mom and dad were home with me on Wednesday and they both came along for my evening walk. Copley was playing in his back yard with his mom when we walked by. Copley's mom invited me to come over and play. I was all excited. I hadn't seen Copley in such a long time. We had fun running around in his yard. We were happy to see each other. 

 Yesterday mom spoke to an animal communicator. Her name was Suzy and she could understand me! Mom wanted to know why I was afraid to go up the stairs in our house. When I went to Kiera's house, I was able to climb the stairs from the deck to the backyard with no problem at all. Mom and dad just didn't understand. I told Suzy that I was afraid the way the stairs were made. At Kira's house the steps were open. Here at home they are enclosed by walls.I was afraid that hands were going to come through the walls and get me. Suzy told me that nothing was going to get me and it was safe. You see, when I used to race, the humans would put me in a cage in a special room with all the other dogs just before the race. Then I had to walk single file down a ramp to the track. The ramp went between bleachers where people would sit to watch me. Sometimes people would reach their hands out to me and this scared me. The stairs at home reminded me of that. Mom and dad where trying to help me over come my fear of the stairs. For a few weeks now, mom and dad have been leaving my treats on the stairs so I would see them as a good thing. Then mom and dad started putting the treats a little higher, gradually making me go higher up the stairs. I still wouldn't go past the 9th step until I talked to Suzy. Last night I went up to the 12th step! Today I went all the way to the top! There was a whole other house up there!I got to see where mom and dad sleep! They said I could sleep there too if I wanted to. I saw a bathroom and where mom has her bike and exercise equipment. Ben and Charlie came up too. They were a bit surprised to see me there. I stayed upstairs for a while. I was afraid to come down! I finally figured it out though. I am back downstairs with mom now. She still doesn't feel well. I followed her yesterday to make sure she was OK. Mom said I was her angel.  Suzy spoke to Ben and Charlie too. It is nice that mom and dad understand us better now.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Pet Rock Festival</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/692334</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 22 Sep 2010 08:07:52 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/692334</guid>
		<description>Mom is behind again!! So hard to find good help these days! What's a dog to do? 
On September 12th, ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom is behind again!! So hard to find good help these days! What's a dog to do? 
On September 12th, mom and dad took me to the Pet Rock Festival. It is held in Worcester, MA every year. We live only about 30 minutes away by highway so it didn't take long to get there. I got all excited in the parking lot because I could see all the other dogs. Daddy took my leash because I was bucking and pulling to try to get to the festivities and socialize. We walked all around the fair before stopping at any booths to give me a chance to burn off some energy and calm down a little. While we were walking around, daddy realized that he didn't have enough cash on him. We had to leave the fair to go and find an ATM! There was one right down the street so it wasn't too far. I was a little upset with daddy. So was mom! Anyway, we got back to the fair pretty quickly and still managed to find a good parking space. When we came back from the ATM, guess who passed us in the car? It was Carla and my boyfriend Gill!!! I was such a happy dog!! Gill and his mom Carla were getting a hero award! I was so proud of Gill. He does a lot to promote greyhound adoption. He has even been on TV! We were all tail waggy when we saw each other. We walked around part of the fair together. Mom did her usual human things- visit booths, enter the raffle and things like that. Daddy was getting hungry so mom and dad got lunch at one of the vendors. Mom and dad like this fair because all the food is vegetarian. No meat is allowed because the fair honors all animals. Two of the vendors were totally vegan so that is where mom and dad ate. After they had their food we watched Gill and his mom get their award. Gill looked so handsome up on the stage. Daddy video taped the whole thing. After we walked around again and finished visiting all the booths. I took a dip in the doggy pools. I went in several of them. Mom and dad also took me into the agility ring. I will do the jumps and the weave poles. I'll even go through the tire. I don't do the ramps or the tunnels though. After we left the agility ring we started to head back to where the raffle table was. Mom wanted to check if she won anything. She didn't. Near the raffle table we noticed a couple of police cars with their lights on. We went to investigate and there was a man lying in the road. The police were waiting for the ambulance. Mom asked someone what happened and a lady and her son explained that the man started walking funny and then just fell. He had a seizure of some kind. The ambulance came and took him away. Part of the Pet Rock Festival is the "Rock". They have music bands that play on the stage where Gill got his award. Mom was happy that one of the bands scheduled to play was Ian Mitchell and the Bay City Rollers. Mom loved that band when she was a teenager. They played last year too and mom got to meet Ian and had her picture taken with him. We found a spot on the grass and waited for them to come on. We listened to another musician while we waited. Finally it was time. Mom was looking for Ian but couldn't see him. One of the other band members announced that Ian had fallen ill and couldn't play. Come to find out- the man on the ground had been Ian!!! The band played without him and dedicated the set to him. Mom was very upset. She and another fan tried to find out more information after the concert. He was still unresponsive an hour and a half later. That kind of put a damper on an otherwise wonderful day. I don't like seeing mom upset. Gill's mom knows the women who started the Pet Rock Festival and has been giving mom updates on Ian's condition. They had to do emergency brain surgery on him to relieve the pressure in his head. He is doing better now.

Mom told me yesterday that I have to move my bed to a new spot. Mom and dad are moving me tonight. Mom has a funny device called a K2 meter. It picks up invisible  electro-magnetic fields. She was actually checking the light bulbs we have and decided to check the whole house. My bed is over an electrical box which is in the basement. The box is giving off very high readings and this invisible field comes right through the floor! Mom is afraid it will make me sick. I don't like changes so it might take me a while. Mom and dad are moving me by a window though so I will still be able to look outside.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Labor Day Weekend</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/690322</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 9 Sep 2010 11:06:12 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/690322</guid>
		<description>I hope all my doggie pals had a fun and safe Labor Day Weekend.
Saturday was a quiet day. Mom and d ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I hope all my doggie pals had a fun and safe Labor Day Weekend.
Saturday was a quiet day. Mom and dad made me go to the Farmer's Market again. After mom and dad bought their produce, they took me for a walk along the river. I did meet a few nice dogs. One dog had the same collar as me! He was black too!

I knew Sunday was going to be busier. Mom and dad started cleaning the whole house again. Every time they do that, I know that people are going to come over. Sure enough, I was right. Not too many humans came this time. That was fine by me! There was only 1 new man that I had never met before. Even Ben came up from the basement to socialize. Daddy's birthday was in a couple of days so the humans had cake. Mom and I didn't eat any. The cake was chocolate which is bad for dogs and mom is on a diet. She has already lost 10 pounds.

Monday was the most fun. Mom and dad didn't have to go to work. Mom made a pasta salad which is something she doesn't usually make. Around 2pm we got into daddy's car. We only drove a short way, but I knew where we were! It was Kiera's house!! Something was different though! Kiera's dad had built something called a "deck". It was like an outside porch. They had a lot of stairs leading down to the back yard. After a few minutes, mom took me around the house to put me in the yard. At that point I could only do around 5 stairs. Mom left me in the yard with Kiera and went up the stairs back to the deck. A little while later mom and dad came down to the yard to keep me company. Kiera's mom, Lisa came down too. They sat in chairs. After about 10 minutes or so other people started to arrive. Lisa, Daddy and mom started going back up the stairs. Guess what? I followed them! I was scared but Kiera was doing it without any problems so I tried it. I went all the way to the top. Daddy started going back down the stairs to see if I could go down. It was awkward for me at first and went slowly, but I did it! I went all the way back down! After that I was up and down several more times. I got better and better at it too! Later more dogs came! At one point there were about 5 dogs in the yard. We had a lot of fun together. The humans had a party and so did we! After a few hours people started to leave and I was allowed to go back to the deck. (Lisa had put up a gate to keep us dogs in the yard because there were lots of humans at the party). Lisa had dropped a veggie burger on the ground. Kiera had some and so did I! It was yummy!! When we got back home mom and dad thought I might try to climb the stairs to our house. I have never been upstairs. Mom put a small rug down at the bottom of the stairs so I wouldn't be on slippery hardwood floors. Mom and dad went up stairs and called me. They even bribed me with treats but I still won't don't it! Mom doesn't know why. Maybe someday I will.

Today is Thursday. Mom is home with me on Thursdays. Mom took me for a long walk down the river trail. We haven't been there lately because the river got very stinky! The smell made mom and dad feel sick! Today it was nice and cool outside and the river smelled OK. There is still a lot of green sludge on the water though. Mom even took me through the little park and through the woods trail. It is a little path off the main the trail that goes though the woods. I had a lot of fun, but now it is time for a nap.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Last Weeks Adventures!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/687726</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 23 Aug 2010 08:07:58 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/687726</guid>
		<description>Mom is behind on my diary again. Lucky for mom, this past weekend was quiet and uneventful for me, s ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom is behind on my diary again. Lucky for mom, this past weekend was quiet and uneventful for me, so we will write about last weekend instead.
Saturday was something called Old Home Weekend in the town where mom grew up. It was also near Grampy's birthday so mom and dad decided to combine the two. It is over an hours drive to Grampy's house so we left early in the morning. There was a traffic jam on the highway which also made us late. Mom wanted to go the Farmer's Market in her home town of Newmarket. Not only did she want to get some fresh veggies but she hoped that she would run into some old friends. The Farmer's Market closed at 1 and we got there about 12:30! Made it just in time. There were a lot of people there, but nothing like the Farmer's Market in our town. Mom bought some corn and tomatoes. There weren't as many booths. Mom didn't recognize anyone so we left and went to Grampy's house which was just down the street. They were having a big fair in the street downtown. mom and dad didn't want to take me because they were afraid it would be too loud and noisy for me. I get scared with stuff like that. I stayed at Grampy's while everyone else went to check out the fair. Grampy has a big fenced in back yard which connects to the garage which is attached to an enclosed porch. Mom opened the door to the back yard and opened the door to the porch and I could go outside whenever I want too! I like that. Mom left me a big bowl of water too because it was hot outside. There was live music bands playing downtown. I could hear it from Grampy's house. It would have been too loud for me I think. Grampy came home first and I went out into the back yard with him and ran around a little bit. When mom and dad came back, Grampy said he was tired and needed a nap (he is 84). Mom, dad and me got into the car and went to visit Grammy! She doesn't live too far away. We stayed and visited for a little over an hour and then drove back to Grampy's house to take him out to dinner for his birthday. Once again, I had to stay at Grampy's. For some reason, dogs can't go where there is people food. If we lived in France, I could have gone too! Oh well! Mom, dad and grampy weren't gone too long. When they came home, mom and dad went back to the fair to listen to a live band. I stayed with Grampy. It was a nice day.

On Sunday I got to go to Gates Pond and have a walk with my boyfriend, Gil, his brother GT and all the Italian Greyhounds!There were two other greyhounds there too with a woman I had met once before (I don't remember their names though)Gil is allowed to walk off his leash. He just stays with everyone. We met another greyhound as we were walking. He was off his leash too. Mom and dad weren't sure if I could be off leash or not. They were a little nervous. They decided to give me a chance and try it. I did great! I stayed right with the pack! It was nice having some freedom. I can't do it all the time for safety reasons, but under some cases I can- like the enclosed beach. I had a great time! Nice weekend!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Cloa's Ark Animal Sanctuary</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/685670</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 9 Aug 2010 07:50:04 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/685670</guid>
		<description>I went to an animal sanctuary with mom and dad yesterday! Some friends of mom and dad run it in Upto ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I went to an animal sanctuary with mom and dad yesterday! Some friends of mom and dad run it in Upton, MA. They are very nice people and love all animals just like mom and dad do. Their names are Patrick and Claudine. At first I wasn't quite sure of what to make of it. There were animals there that I have never seen before. There were goats, cows, chickens, ducks, sheep and something called guinea fowl. I have seen goats before. One of our neighbors is a goat named Spring. He tried to head butt me through the fence. Mom says he wanted to play with me but I don't play like that! Patrick told mom and dad that I could be off leash because we were in a fenced in area. Mom didn't think it was a good idea but they took my leash off. Of course I immediately started chasing the goats! That's how I play!! They were scared of me. I actually caused a stampede and some of the ducks almost got trampled by the herd of goats. Before I knew it, I was back on the leash again. Patrick had an exercise pen, so I had to go in it. They gave me a bowl of water to drink. Mom and dad petted all the strange animals including the chickens. They made sure I could see them. A little while later daddy and Patrick left to go play ping pong. They met each other playing. I'm not sure exactly what ping pong is, but daddy likes it. Mom and Claudine stayed at the sanctuary with me. They sat in chairs near my pen and talked. After awhile I felt I needed to go to the bathroom. I didn't want to soil my pen. It is hard communicating to humans sometime. I started to dig the dirt with my front paws and whine. Mom and Claudine decided to give me another chance out side the pen. Mom let me out and I did my duty. I started to run at the goats again but mom told me to "Leave It". I did! I was trying hard to be good but I so wanted to chase things that ran. A while later I tried to chase a guinea fowl. Mom told me to "Leave it" and the bird flew over the coop to the other side. After that I was good and didn't try to chase anything any more. I still went for another run, but I made sure i wasn't close to the goats. I knew mom didn't want me to chase them. I also smelled rats at the sanctuary. They had holes all over the place and I was sniffing into them. I saw a couple but couldn't catch them. When dad and Patrick came back they were surprised I was out of the pen. I was very good so I never had to go back in. I had fun and so did mom and dad. Patrick and Claudine pay out of their pockets to keep the sanctuary going. They had to spend thousands of dollars for surgery on one of their calves. She is doing well now but still had "hardware" on both sides of her lower jaw. Mom wants to have a fund raiser to help with their financial issues. Here is their web site if any of my pup pals want to help as well. http://www.cloark.com/ Daddy might be helping Patrick to make the web site better. Mom says we will go back again. That will be fun.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I Almost Got A Ticket!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/684501</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 1 Aug 2010 10:34:06 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/684501</guid>
		<description>It happened Thursday noon time. Mom and I have to cross a major road to get to my favorite Winter St ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It happened Thursday noon time. Mom and I have to cross a major road to get to my favorite Winter Street walk. Mom always tells me to wait as she watches for cars and trucks. When it is clear she tells me "OK" and I know we can cross. On Thursday we were waiting to cross. There was a Police car coming so mom told me to wait. The Policeman slowed down and flashed his lights to let us know we could cross. Mom said "OK" and bolted into a gallop. I almost pulled mom down. I guess I was going way too fast (Speed limit is only 35 MPH on that street) because the Policeman pulled me and mom over! He rolled down the window and told mom I was a fast dog. She went and told him I could run 45 mph! What was she thinking?! That was 10 miles over the speed limit! Mom told the Policeman that I was an ex-racer too. I got lucky this time and only got a warning! I'll have to slow down a bit!! BOL!!!

Saturday was my surprise day. I still had no idea where we were going. We went to the farmer's market like usual, but before we bought vegetables, mom and dad dragged me across the street to the groomers! I got my nails done. I know they needed it, but I don't have to like it! I kept hoping that my nails weren't the "Big Surprise"!! We got home form the farmer's market and mom and dad started making their lasagna. They were making 2 of them!!! OK, now I knew something else was up. Sure enough, as soon as the lasagna's came out of the oven, we packed up the car and off we went. We were on the highway when all the cars started slowing down. The cars where backed up as far as we could see. Daddy took the next exit and we used the GPS and a map to navigate on back roads. Daddy did great. When we arrived, I recognized where we were. We were at something mom and dad calls the "MARCnic" Every year mom and dad's animal rights group hold a big picnic. MARC stands for MA Animal Rights Coalition. All the food served is vegan, which is how mom and dad always eat anyway. The yard is fenced in so I could be off my leash. There were lots of people and dogs there. The people who tun MARC, Helen and Steve, have an animal sanctuary. They have rescued goats, chickens, ducks, bunnies and even 2 turtles. I had fun for the most part but this young boy kept chasing me around the yard. He wanted to pet me, but I was scared of him. I got my exercise! He finally stopped and I found a cool place in the shade to rest. I played some with the other dogs too. When it got dark they made a big fire in the pit. I didn't get too close to it. Mom and dad and all the other humans sat around the fire and talked. I was a tired dog when we got home. I slept until 8:30 this morning!! Mom was glad!!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Mom and Dad went on Vacation</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/683776</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 27 Jul 2010 12:39:36 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/683776</guid>
		<description>Mom and Dad were away on vacation last week. I had a new pet sitter named Nora because Sarah already ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom and Dad were away on vacation last week. I had a new pet sitter named Nora because Sarah already had another job. She stayed with me and the cats and lived right here at our house. Mom never wants me to go to a kennel. She said I spent the first 2 1/2 years in a cage and I will never have to be in one again. Nora was very nice and took good care of us. I missed mom and dad though and I am glad they are back home. Mom bought me a new bandana from one of the places they visited. It is very pretty. Mom said that I wouldn't have had fun going with them. They did things that dogs wouldn't have been allowed to do. On Sunday, mom and dad took me to a Greyhound Adventures walk. It was close to home and they wanted to do something special for me. I got to see a lot of my friends like Sonie, Johnny B, Zero and Louise. I had a lot of fun. We walked part of the Minute Man Trail. It was kind of hot so we all took it slow and stopped for water breaks. Mom brought two water bottles just for me. Some of the other people had spray bottles so we could get sprayed to cool off. I liked that. Mom dumped any of the left over water on my back to keep me cool too. 
Mom says that on Saturday I have another surprise coming! I wonder what it could be?]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Happy Belated 4th Of July</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/681272</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 11 Jul 2010 14:25:01 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/681272</guid>
		<description>Mom has been slacking on my diary again. What's a dog to do? Hope all my pup pals had a safe and fun ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom has been slacking on my diary again. What's a dog to do? Hope all my pup pals had a safe and fun 4th Of July. 
The Farmer's Market has started up again. Mom and dad took me with them on July 3rd. Mom stayed with me while daddy did the shopping. There were lots of other dogs there but I don't like getting too close to the booths. I was a lot happier when my friend, Keira showed up with her mom and dad. Keira doesn't really like going very much either. The things we dogs put up with to please our humans. We socialized for a bit and then mom and dad took me over to new booth. It was Dirty Hairy's dog wash! I go there sometimes to get a bath. They were selling treats so mom and dad bought me some. They were terrible!!! I didn't like them at all. You know they have to bad when a dog won't touch them! After the Farmer's Market I got to go to the pet store near our house. We bought real treats there! Yummmy!

On Sunday, the 4th of July, Mom and Dad got up early and started making their lasagna. I always know that something is going on when they make it. Sure enough, after it was cooked, we all got into the car. We went to the Boston Vegetarian Society's annual pot luck picnic. Last year it was at Onset Beach which is ear Cape Cod. This year it was a lot closer in Natick, MA. It was only about a 30 minute drive. The people who were hosting had a large and very shady back yard. I was happy about that because it was hot outside. Mom and dad set up my exercise pen so I could be off leash and feel safe. Mom laid down my blanket, filled my water bowl and gave me my green pepper toy and some bones. I had all the comfort of home. I had just settled in when I saw a familiar face. It was Keira!!! Her mom and dad brought her too. It was nice to know someone else. Keira actually joined me in my pen while the humans stuffed themselves full of food. After the feast mom and dad put my harness back on and took me out of my pen. Just about the same time a van pulled up. Inside were two goats!! I am not kidding!! (no pun intended!! BOL)) They were brother and sister. I kept my distance because I had met a goat before. He is my neighbor and his name is Spring. He tried to head butt me through the fence! Sorry but I don't like to play that way! Mom was petting the goats and loving it. We finally got into the car and drove just a very short distance. We ended up at Elm Bank Reservation (36 acres of fields, forests, and formal gardens as well as a collection of architectural masterpieces, run by Mass. Horticultural Society.)We got out of the car and in the car next to us was Keira and her mom and dad! Oh happy doggies!! We took a nice walk through the woods and open fields. it was so much fun and cooler in the woods. After the walk we returned to the picnic for a while. Keira had to leave but there were a few other dogs around. People kept coming over to my pen to pet me and talk to me. Mom hung out with the goats again. On our way home we stopped off at a little park to see a waterfall. It was man made so nothing special about it. Mom did notice a big blue bird walking around. It was a great blue heron! That was kind of cool!! We came home after that and relaxed. Mom and dad decided not to go to fire works. I wouldn't be able to go to that anyway- too loud!!! We had a nice 4th.

This weekend has been very quite. daddy has been helping to run the Bay State games for ping pong. It was just me and mom today. We did the usual things like going to the pet store and I did meet up and with Copley for a walk around the neighborhood. Mom told me that Keira got to play with a black and white  "kitty"! She had to have a special bath and I don't think she will ever play with one again!!

PS Diary: Mom and I just went for my evening walk. Mom wanted to go one way and I wanted to go another. Mom won! I am glad that mom won because we ended up walking past Copley's house. Copley and his mom and dad were in the yard! I got invite over to play. We had so much fun running and playing. Copley's dad played with us too. Copley's mom brought out a big bowl of water. Oh, was that good!! I am tired now! Mom thought she might have to carry me home!!! Happy dog!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Black and White Kitty</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/679152</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 27 Jun 2010 11:37:05 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/679152</guid>
		<description>Daddy takes me for my last walk of the day every night. Mom is usually in bed because she has to get ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Daddy takes me for my last walk of the day every night. Mom is usually in bed because she has to get up earlier in the morning than daddy. On Friday night we were walking up our street when I saw something in the middle of the road! I could see a lot better than daddy could. There were two black and white kitties! One was big and the other was just a baby. I wanted so badly to chase them! I was trying to pull on my leash! They looked a little different than my cat brothers, Ben and Charlie and I was very curious about them. Daddy could see there was something in the road but he wasn't sure what it was. He thought it was a shirt or piece of clothing. Daddy shined the flash light on the kitties and they ran across the road to the other side. Daddy told me that they weren't kitties after all and that I didn't want to ever mess with them. I don't know why not? Daddy said that he didn't want me to find out "Why not!"

On Saturday mom and dad had to go to something called a wedding. I wasn't invited. I don't understand why I couldn't go too! Anyway, my dog walker, Sarah, came over in the middle of day and took me for my walk. She also had her dog Bella. We had just started down Winter Street when a friend of Sarah's came by and joined us on our walk. I was shy at first but after a few minutes I was OK. Bella got to go off leash and chase things. I couldn't!! Darn those leashes!!! Mom and dad came home by the time of my evening walk. I like going on family walks with mom and dad.

Today is Sunday. After my noon walk, we made our usual trip to the pet store for supplies. I got a great cookie and a flossie. As we were coming out of the store I met two really big, white fluffy dogs. They were bigger than me. They were Great Pyrenees and were very friendly. After we got home mom an dad had to leave again to go to a book club meeting. They said that I would have a surprise when they got back home. Sure enough, mom got me in the car and daddy drove us to Hudson. First we stopped at Petco. I was thinking to myself "This isn't much of a surprise. I have been here many times." But after making a purchase we got back into the car and drove to Gates Pond. We were the first to arrive but a few minutes later a car pulled up. There were Italian Greyhounds inside. I remembered them from before. They were Sophie and Lola and there dad, Steve. Right after they came two more cars came. It was aunt Carla with Italian greyhounds Maya, Dash and Izzy and  Greyhound,GT!! In the other car was her fiance, Mike, and my boyfriend, Gil!!! Now THAT was a surprise!! I was so happy to see everyone. We went on an hour long walk around the lake. Gil and I went into the water. The Italian Greyhounds don't like the water much and GT was a bit too scared to come in with us. We had such a good time!! I am a tired but happy dog right now. Mom gave me a bone for a snack. Another greyt weekend!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Father's Day Adventure</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/678201</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 21 Jun 2010 07:54:43 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/678201</guid>
		<description>It was a very busy weekend. The only awesome thing that happened on Friday was that I saw a bunny! M ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It was a very busy weekend. The only awesome thing that happened on Friday was that I saw a bunny! Most humans wouldn't even think that would be worth writing about, but I know all my doggie pals understand perfectly. Mom was glad that daddy was holding the leash because I lunged hard for it. Darn those leashes! They always ruin a dogs fun! 

On Saturday I had a Meet and Greet at the Pet store near our house. It is called Pet Source. I was the only Greyhound there for a while. Johnny B couldn't make it. His mom came without him. I did my best to represent greyhounds everywhere alone. Finally I saw Troy and Oscar come into the store. I was SO happy to see them. My tail was wagging really fast. It was nice to be with friends. I also do better greeting humans when another dog is around. If the other dog goes up to be petted then I know that human is OK. Then I will also go up to get petted. A little while later another greyhound came into the store. His name was Fast. He was black like me and very nice. We had a nice meet and greet.

Sunday was the busy day! We all got in the car early in the morning. I barely had time to finish breakfast! Daddy drove for a while and then I realized where I was. It was Horn Pond!! I looked out the car window and saw dozens of greyhounds! I got very exited! Johnny B was there and so was Sonie and Louise. I was jumping around so happy to see everyone. I like going to the Greyhound Adventures group. We walked to the beach and I wanted to go in. Daddy had long pants on, but mom had shorts. She took off her shoes and walked into the pond with me. I went pretty deep but I didn't try to swim this time. I think mom was glad about that. It was great to feel the cool water on my legs and tummy.Mom splashed me so I could cool off my back. We continued the walks and saw a swan. Mom took a picture. At the next break spot the group decided to go on the wooded path. I like that path. The other option is along the road with cars and things. We saw another swan with babies! After the walk we got back in the car and headed to NH. Mom explained that it was Father's Day so we were going to visit Grampy. First though we were going to visit grammy to since she lives close by. While we wered riving we got stuck in traffic. We had to go very slow for a long time. Daddy saw a police car up ahead. A deer had been killed trying to cross the highway. Mom was sad. They were just putting the deer in the back of a police truck. We finally got to grammy's house and I walked right in. Mom, dad and grammy left for a little while to get lunch. I had to stay in the house by myself. They weren't gone too long. When they got back I got to go over the neighbor's house to play with their dog Casey in the back yard. It was very hot out and I was panting a lot. I was also tired from my long walk at Horn Pond. I didn't feel much like running. I did borrow a bone from Casey to chew on though. It was starting to get late and daddy wanted to stop at the store to buy a dehumidifier for the basement. I stayed with grammy while mom and dad went to buy it. It would have been too hot for me to be in the car. 
After grammy's we went to grampy's house. We stayed on the porch because it was cooler. At grampy's I can walked from the porch,through the garage and out into the back yard when I want.I still didn't feel like running but I did walk around and sniff and explore. Mom and dad took grampy out for dinner. Once again I had to stay at grampy's house by myself. I couldn't go into the back yard because they closed the door, but they let me stay on the porch or go in the house as I wanted to. They weren't gone too long and grampy had a nice dinner. When mom, dad and grmapy came back, mom and dad took me for a walk around the neighborhood. This is where mom grew up. She told us where people  used to live. Daddy wanted to go by a building called The Polish Club. Daddy isn't Polish, but he used to play ping pong there before he met mom. There was a man standing outside and mom recognized him. It was her cousin! They talked for awhile. It was getting late so we went back grampy's house to say our good byes. I was a tired dog! It felt good to get back home to my bed.]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>I Won A Raffle Basket!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/676832</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 12 Jun 2010 11:22:01 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/676832</guid>
		<description>When we went to the Whisker Walk last week, mom and I entered in the raffle. They had so many great  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ When we went to the Whisker Walk last week, mom and I entered in the raffle. They had so many great gift baskets. Mom bought 15 chances to win. Mom didn't think we had won anything because she didn't get a call, but on Wednesday the phone rang! It was the Sterling Animal Shelter. They told mom that I HAD won a basket!! To make it even better, I won the basket that I really, really wanted! It was the "Wilderness Dog" basket! Mom had to work this morning so daddy and I drove to the shelter to pick it up. We saw lots of puppies and lots of people! A lady asked daddy if he was there to adopt another dog. He said he came to pick up my basket. The lady went inside a brought it out to us. She also gave me a blue ball and some dog cookies!!! Daddy wouldn't let me open my basket until mom came home. The first thing she gave me was my special toy that I really wanted. It is a badger with squeakies in it. It doesn't have stuffing so it is the kind you can really shake and shake. The fur is so soft and almost feels real. I am cuddling with it right now! I also won a cool ball with a fake fur tail, a rope toy with a ball in the middle, a rubber squeaky fish, a reflective collar and leash, a bandana and a matching coat (which is too small for me so maybe my friend Kiera can wear it)I am such a happy dog today! It isn't even my birthday. I have been very lucky in raffles lately!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>The Whisker Walk!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/676030</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 7 Jun 2010 07:51:10 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/676030</guid>
		<description>Friday night was the last night for my medication. I have been only on short walks all week. My toe  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Friday night was the last night for my medication. I have been only on short walks all week. My toe is slowly starting to feel better. On Saturday I went to the pet store with mom and dad. The store was out of the kind of cat food that mom usually buys for Ben and charlie. I did get a great cookie and flossie though. That always makes me happy.
Yesterday was the Whisker Walk at the Lancaster Fair Grounds. It is about a 30 minute ride in the car to get there. The weather didn't look too good. It was cloudy and heavy rain was predicted. The fair was rain or shine so mom and dad decided to take me anyway. We got there early so we were in the second row of the parking lot. Mom made me wear my rain coat just in case and she had umbrellas for her and daddy. I was still limping a little bit so mom told me I couldn't do the actual walk. Walking around the fair grounds would be more than enough walking for me. I was fine with that. Despite the weather not being the best, there were still a lot of dogs and people there. We got to walk around and get free samples and see all the booths and rescue groups. One booth was selling pet deodorizing products. Daddy recognized the smell of it! It was the same stuff they had given mom and dad at Ben and Charlie's old vets. The stuff worked better than anything mom and dad have ever tried before and daddy had been trying to find it in all the pet stores and even Online! Daddy was happy and we bought 2 bottles plus laundry detergent to get the smell out of my beds and blankets. The products were heavy so we made a quick trip back to the car to put the stuff in the trunk. The rest of the fair was very nice. I even got to meet a donkey and a mule! I also made friends with a couple of Great Danes and saw my greyhound friend, Lilly. We stayed about 2 hours in all. Mom entered the raffle drawing but it doesn't look like she won anything. My paw did OK and I was happy that I got to go. On the way home, we took a detour to go to the other pet store we sometimes go to. It is called Especially For Pets. Mom wanted to see if they had the cat food. They did! (but not very much of it) Mom grabbed 8 cans. While mom was buying the cat food, daddy and I were talking to a girl at a table. She gave me free samples of a new food called Addiction. Mom buys me canned Addiction which has bison in it. This was dehydrated packets that you mix with water. The girl at the table said it was like eating a raw diet. Mom made me one of the packets last night. Mom and dad thought it smelled awful, but I LOVED it! It was a meat I had never had before- some animal from a place called Australia. Anyway, I told mom to get me more. I hope she does.
I really hope I can run again soon. This toe of mine is a real pain! More later!]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Happy Memorial Day!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/674687</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 31 May 2010 15:09:29 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/674687</guid>
		<description>Hope all my doggie pals had a happy and safe Memorial Day weekend. It has been a rough week for me t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hope all my doggie pals had a happy and safe Memorial Day weekend. It has been a rough week for me this past week. Daddy noticed that I was limping pretty bad when he took me for my Sunday night walk. My left front foot hurt really bad. Mom and dad thought it might have been from a combination of things- a lot of running, the pool incident and spending the day at Paws In The Park. Mom and dad both checked me all over. They didn't see anything obviously wrong. I seemed to be better Tuesday but by Wednesday I was limping again. Mom called the vet and she took me to see the doctor Wednesday afternoon. The doctor looked at my feet, legs and shoulder. Then she took me in the back room and took an x-ray. Nothing was broken so that was good. She said it was a soft tissue injury and it was one of my toes. She gave mom some medicine that I have to take everyday for awhile. It actually tastes pretty good. The medicine seemed to help right away. I started feeling good again. Mom was taking me only on short walks and things were good- until Friday night. We walked past Copley's house and Copley and his mom and dad were JUST coming out the door! Of course I got all excited and was jumping around a bit. We went on a walk with Copley and probably went a bit further than I should have. Still I was OK. My toe was a bit more sore but still not too bad. On Saturday dad told me to get in the car. We drove a short ways and I realized I was at Kiera's house! As I got out of the car a noticed a human walking up the street towards me. It was MOM!!! She had just left work and was meeting us. We went inside and I got to see Kiera and her mom and dad (Lisa and Marc). We were there for a waffle party!!! More people came but I was OK because Kiera was there with me. When there is another dog around, I am very social and not as shy. Mom and dad let me go into Kiera's yard to take a break from all the people. Kiera and I saw a squirrel. We got all excited. I think I jumped around too much again. After the party we went to the pet store for food, cookies and a rawhide bone. We went home after that, but by the time my evening walk came around, my toe was sore again. This time mom could see it was very swollen. I could hardly walk. Mom does this thing called Reiki. It helps people and animals heal. All I know is that it feels strange at first. Once you get used to it though, it is quite nice. I limped over to mom and laid on the floor and I asked her for Reiki. She took my paw into her hands and did 20 minutes for me. It helped a lot. Mom says I am on restricted activity. That means no long walks. Yesterday I only got to spend time in my yard. That would have been dull but mom and dad were doing yard work so they were there with me. Today was Memorial Day. Mom wanted to do something special so we went on a picnic to the little park near our house. Mom and dad drove me there in the car. Mom tied 3 leashes to the picnic table so I could move around a bit. The picnic was fun but the mosquitoes came out! Mom and dad forgot the bug spray!! Mom was OK- they don't bite her! They were after me and daddy though so we ate our food and went back to the car. Mom wanted to get some plants for the yard so daddy drove us to the plant store. They let dogs walk around inside so I got to help mom pick out plants. Even though I can't do much physical activity, mom still made sure I had an interesting day. Mom says she will give me more Reiki tonight. Right now it is time for my evening walk. I only get to go around the block! That's OK. I want to get better in time for the Whisker Walk on Sunday. That is the biggest doggie fair in the area! I don't want to miss it!!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Paws In The Park</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/673345</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 24 May 2010 07:47:39 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/673345</guid>
		<description>Yesterday was another fun day. Mom and dad took me to Paws In The Park in Sudbury. It is an annual d ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yesterday was another fun day. Mom and dad took me to Paws In The Park in Sudbury. It is an annual doggie fair that helps to raise money for a no kill shelter called Save A Dog. They have a group walk, lots of booths to sell you things, free samples and lots of games and activities. Paws In The Park was at a different place this year. It was at the Wayside Inn. I think I liked the new place better. I was all excited seeing all the other dogs. I was almost pulling daddy to get to the fair! Once we got there though, I realized that there were a lot of humans standing around as well as dogs. I was so focused on seeing all the dogs, I hadn't noticed all the humans. I didn't want to go close to the booths so daddy kept me along the side where there activity rings were.  Mom did some shopping. Mom got some new cat toys for Ben and Charlie. She also bought me a velcro reflective collar. I  can wear it when I go for my night time walk and won't have to put on my full reflective vest. Mom and dad thought it was a good thing to buy.  We got about half way around the fair when the walk started. I like doing the walk! It was very pretty. We went by an old mill with a water wheel and walked along a stream.  When we got back to the fair, mom and dad went back to look at the rest of the booths. One lady was selling dog beds. Daddy bought me one! It is very nice. The lady let us keep it at the booth so we didn't have to carry it around. It was getting hot so mom and dad took me to the wading pools. I went in several of them and got a drink. One of the pools was exactly like mine! Mom said that this is the best pool for me. She doesn't want me going in Aunt Carla's pool again. We watched a frisbee demo and then mom and dad took me though the agility course. I was pretty good at it. The only thing I wouldn't do were the tunnels. They were kind of too small for me anyway. Soon after that they started the doggie contests. Daddy entered me in the longest tail competition. My friend, Lily, was there competing against me. She is a greyhound too. She was there with her mom working at the Greyhound Friend's table. The judges had a hard choice between me and Lily but they decided I was the winner! I got a cool green toy alligator. Mom and dad and I decided it was about time to leave. We went to Greyhound Friends booth and offered to watch it for a few minutes to give Sandy and Pat (the humans) a break. Lily stayed at the booth with me and we both laid down together on Lily's bed. I was getting tired. Sandy and Pat came back after a few minutes and we went back to pick up my bed. On the way home we stopped off at the pet store to pick up some things and then we came home. Daddy put my new bed on the floor and took up my old bed to be washed. A little while later mom and dad took me for my walk. We walked past Copley's house and I started to go up the drive way. Copley's mom and dad were there so they let me go into the yard. The neighbor's German Shepherd, Roxie, came over to play too. I walked into the yard and there was a baby rabbit sitting right there in front of me! I couldn't believe it! Roxie and Copley saw it too. I was still stuck on my leash so I couldn't chase it. Roxie went after it and so did Copley. Copley ran right into the patio table. The rabbit escaped under the shed. daddy finally let me off the leash but it was too late. The rabbit must have been scared to see 3 doggie noses poking under the shed. Roxie left and went back home and Copley, Copley's dad and I ran around for a bit. I was tired when we got back home. I stretched out on my new bed and fell asleep.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I'm No Michael Phelps!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/673129</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 22 May 2010 18:34:30 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/673129</guid>
		<description>I spent the day with Auntie Carla today! Mom and dad had to go to Earthfest in Boston and couldn't t ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I spent the day with Auntie Carla today! Mom and dad had to go to Earthfest in Boston and couldn't take me with them. I wouldn't be allowed on the subway and there were way too many people and too much noise for me. Mom and dad thought I would have a lot more fun staying with my boyfriend, Gil, his brother GT and all the Italian greyhounds. Auntie Carla was happy to have me come over. We got there a little before 10. Mom and dad helped me to settle in and let me go outside and run with Gil. I was having fun. Mom, dad and Auntie Carla came outside to watch us. The swimming pool cover was off now and the pool was filled with water. I ran over to it and without hesitation, I plunged right into the pool!!! It is important to know here that I had never even seen a swimming pool like this before. I don't know what came over me, but in I went!! I immediately went right under the water and had to doggy paddle my way back up for air. Greyhounds are not known for their swimming ability! Just the opposite! We are lean with no body fat and are paws are very small. We are great at running, but swimming- not so much!! I made it across to the opposite side of the pool.  This kind of pool was called an infinity pool, but the water wasn't all the way to the top yet. I managed to get my front legs over the edge, but I got stuck there. I couldn't pull myself out! The humans ran over to me! Daddy grabbed my collar and managed to haul me out of the water onto the edge of the pool. Because of the way the pool was set up, there was a little moat of water that ran along the edge on the ground. It wasn't like they could just lift me down to the ground. Aunt Carla slid her body to the end of the pool and made a bridge with her body. Mom had my back legs and daddy had my shoulders and head. They slid me across the edge of the pool onto Aunt Carla's lap. From there I could slide to the ground!! Mom and dad were happy that I did remain calm and didn't struggle or fight them. I was shaking a bit from it all. Once I got all 4 feet on the ground again, I shook myself off and ran around a little. Then I went back to the pool again!! This time I thought better of it! Auntie Carla filled the doggy pool with fresh water. I think I'll stick to that kind of pool from now on. The rest of the day went well. I didn't go near the pool again. Mom and dad left and I had a fun day with Gil, GT and the iggies. Aunt Carla gave me a greenie and a milk bone for snacks. They were good. I got to nap in a nice bed and play with Gil and GT. Mom and dad finally came back to get me. A part of me didn't want to leave, but I'm happy to be home now. Guess I won't be trying out for the Olympic Swim Team any time soon!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>What A Greyt Weekend!!!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/672051</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 16 May 2010 05:36:32 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/672051</guid>
		<description>We took our weekly trip to the pet store on Saturday. Mom bought me some new jerky treats. They have ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We took our weekly trip to the pet store on Saturday. Mom bought me some new jerky treats. They have something in them called Glucosamine and Chondrioton. Two different vets recommend that I be on these because of my broken foot. Mom doesn't want arthritis setting in the future and sometimes when I run really hard, my foot hurts. I don't mind. The treats are really good! When we got back from the pet store, daddy took me for a walk. Mom stayed home and put the groceries away. Daddy and I walked by Copley's house and Copley's mom and dad were in the yard. They invite me for a run with Copley in the back yard!!! Oh Happy Dog!!!!! We had so much fun. I even went right up to Copley's mom and dad to thanks them. They were happy because I am  shy with people until I get to know them. Copley and I both drank together from the water bowl. Copley's mom thought it was cute. When I got home mom had a special surprise for me!! On my bed was my cookie, my flossie and two of my new treats!! It wasn't even my birthday!!! Mom and dad left a little while later. Mom told me they were going to a very special dinner. Mom and dad and a lot of other people were celebrating! Greyhound racing has officially ended in New England!!! Only 7 more states to go and it will be ended in the United States!!! Grey2K USA was hosting the dinner. Mom and dad are supporters.  They don't want any other greyhounds to suffer at the track like I did. Isn't that GREYT!!?? Daddy won a T-shirt and a tote bag in the raffle! Mom said the food was really good too.

Today we went to Greyhound Friends Open House. Mom, Dad and I worked at the silent auction/raffle table. Mom and dad set up my exercise pen so I would have a safe place to hang out. Last year we had a tent, but this year we were in the full sun. Mom and dad had an extra blanket in the car so they hung it over my pen and made me a personal tent so I could have some shade. Daddy took me to the big fenced in yard to run. My good friends, Johnny B and Sonie were waiting to go in too, so we got to go in the yard together! I did most of the running. Mom also entered me in the longest tail competition and the youngest hound competition. I took 4th place in the youngest hound. I am 3 years, 6 months old (I mean young!). I only got honorable mention in longest tail. My tail was only 21 inches. The winner's was about 24 inches. My boyfriend, Gil had a 23 inch tail and got 4th place. I still got a ribbon and dog bone. Mom hung my ribbons up on my exercise pen. Daddy took me for lots of walks so I got to see all the other dogs and also get a break from the crowds. The open house went very well. A lot of people came. We learned that it costs $1,300 a day to keep the shelter open!! They really need donations. Louise who runs Greyhound Friends said that this open house was the best they ever had! I agree!! I won a huge cookie and a gift basket in the raffle!!! I was surprised because I didn't even know I had entered!! I think mom entered for me. Mom was also the top bidder in the silent auction for a greyhound statue. It is displayed in the book case down stairs. Mom really wanted that. Mom's friend, Carla, (Gil's mom) made a hand painted slate for us!! It is really cool. Mom and dad hung it in the living room. I'm really tired now. What a Greyt weekend it was.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Special Play Date!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/671786</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 14 May 2010 18:50:36 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/671786</guid>
		<description>Yesterday was a wonderful day! I saw a toad when I went for my noon walk with mom. It sort of startl ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yesterday was a wonderful day! I saw a toad when I went for my noon walk with mom. It sort of startled me at first. I wasn't sure what it was. I sniffed at it and it hopped away.  Daddy came home from work a little early. He told me to get into the car. Dad, mom and I drove for a little while and ended up at a strange house.  Gil's mom, Carla, came out of the house! I thought that was kind of strange. Mom and dad were trying to get me to go inside but I wasn't too sure about it. I finally went in. Gil was there. There was also another greyhound that I hadn't met before. Mom told me his name was GT. He was barking and barking.  It took him awhile to settle down. Gil's other brothers and sisters (The Italian Greyhounds) also came out to say "Hi". There were two cats there too!! Carla let me and Gil go out into the backyard to run. We had a lot of fun. You can see the video on my Dogster page. They had a swimming pool on the side of the house. It is a lot bigger than my pool! It was still covered with a liner but I had never seen that before. I tried to run on it! Was a surprise that was! I didn't fall in or anything but I was careful not to go near it after that. After I got a short rest, I got to run with GT. He is very nice too! Daddy made a video of that too. It is in my video book. We had a nice visit. Mom says I will get to spend the day with Gil and GT in a week. Mom and dad are going to something called "Earthfest" in Boston and they will be gone for most of the day. They thought I would have more fun playing with Gil and GT than just going for a walk with my dog sitter. They are right about that!! I am very excited. It felt good to run with other greyhounds. As you watch my video of me running with Gil, watch how I fake him out!!! He was starting to pass me, so I made a quick turn and took off in the other direction.!! I'm tricky like that.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Beach Run!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/670996</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 10 May 2010 05:33:42 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/670996</guid>
		<description>What a greyt day I had yesterday!! Mom, dad and I went to New Hampshire to visit grammy and grampy.  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ What a greyt day I had yesterday!! Mom, dad and I went to New Hampshire to visit grammy and grampy. We took daddy' s new Prius to save on gas and be greener. First we went to grammy's house. I wanted to go to the neighbor's yard and run right away but daddy said we had to go inside grammy's house first. We visited awhile and then mom, dad and grammy left to get lunch. I had to stay at grammy's while they were gone. I didn't like that part, but they weren't gone very long. After lunch grammy called the neighbors but they weren't home. Grammy said we could still use the yard. That made me happy. I ran and ran and had a fun time. Daddy filmed me on his camera. I hope to put it up on Dogster soon. Mom wanted to take me for a walk on the beach because it was still the "off" season. We all got into the car. Mom sat in the backseat with me so grammy could sit in front with dad. We drove to the beach we went to last year but there all these horrible signs up saying I wasn't allowed! That really makes me mad!! Grammy knew of another beach called Pirates Cove. It is a private beach and we could go there. It was even bigger and nicer than the other beach anyway! There were about 6 other dogs there too with their people. It was a windy day but the ocean was calm and the sky was bright blue.  It was cool so I had to wear my fleece, but I didn't care. I walked on the sand and even walked into the ocean. I tried to drink the water once but it tasted funny.  A lot of the dogs were running free and it was frustrating being on a leash attached to daddy. Mom and daddy looked around and realized the beach was pretty much enclosed. Along the beach were private houses with walls and on the other side was the ocean. There was only one small opening to the parking lot. Mom and dad decided to let me run free!!! Oh what fun!!! I was a bit tired from my run in the yard and the walk but I didn't let that stop me. I was having too much fun. I ran and ran. Everyone on the beach stopped to watch me run! I didn't go too far and came back to mom and dad. It was nice to be free but I still stayed close to my family. I was sad when we had to go. 
After grammy's we got back in the car and drove to grampy's house. I got to run a bit in his yard too. We visited with grampy and then mom, dad and grampy went to have dinner. Once again I had to stay at grampy's house. Oh well, I was tired anyway. I slept on the ride home. Last night I dreamed about running free on the beach. Mom and dad said in the fall they will take me back again. I will like that!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Playing In My Yard</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/670495</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 7 May 2010 13:47:29 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/670495</guid>
		<description>Yesterday morning it was cool and I felt invigorated! The minute mom let me out of my harness I took ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yesterday morning it was cool and I felt invigorated! The minute mom let me out of my harness I took off in my yard and ran and ran. Mom was having fun watching me. I would run up to her and play bow. Mom would do her human version of a play bow back and I would take off again. Mom sat in a lawn chair and watched me. Then I did something I have never done before! I started digging in the dirt! Mom likes it when I do doggie things. It shows I am recovering even more from my life at the race track. Dirt was flying everywhere. I think I killed some of the grass mom and dad was trying to grow. Mom didn't care because it is MY yard!! I had fun. 

When daddy got home from work, we all went on a family walk together. We tried to go on the river trail but the mosquitoes were just too bad. Daddy forgot the bug spray!! We left the trail and walked on the residential street instead. We came to one lawn and there was a wild rabbit sitting there. Mom and dad noticed it first. Then, sure enough, I saw it. Oh I wanted to chase that rabbit SO badly!!! That is the animal that I was bred to hunt!! Mom kept telling me that the rabbit was a friend. Maybe it was, but it took every thing within me not to lunge at it! The rabbit ran off and I was a bit frustrated. Mom and dad told me I was a good doggie. I did get a cookie when I got back home!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Hikes and Swimming Pools</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/670200</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 5 May 2010 16:03:50 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/670200</guid>
		<description>We had a very hot weekend last Saturday and Sunday. It felt more like mid summer than early May.  Mo ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We had a very hot weekend last Saturday and Sunday. It felt more like mid summer than early May.  Mom and dad took me out to my yard and there was a strange round plastic thing filled with water. I was confused at first. I went over and sniffed it and took a drink. This was the biggest water bowl I had ever seen. I lifted my front paw up a few times but I wasn't sure that it was OK to go in it. I had been in these things a few times last year at different doggie events. I knew it was OK then because other dogs were going in them. Daddy put his hands in the water and splashed around in it. Mom and dad kept telling me it was OK. I finally put my front 2 paws in it and then my back feet. The cool water felt good on my paws. I stood there for a minute, got out and went back in again. I went in and out of the pool about 10 times. It was fun. Then I took my front paw and slashed a bit.  We didn't go for our long walk until later in the evening. It was just too hot. Mom said it was 90 degrees. I'm not sure what that means but I was panting a lot. On the evening walk mom and dad took me to a nature trail near our house. This is different than the river trail we usually walk. This one is all in the woods. We kind of got a little lost. Daddy told mom to take the orange trail which did eventually meet up with the white trail, but then the white trail went around a pond. Mom and dad didn't want to go around the pond because the mosquitoes were already really bad. Mom took another trail instead which had no markings on it. We ended up in back of the elementary school. Daddy kept trying to keep the mosquitoes off of me and he was getting bitten too! They didn't like mom and she was fine. Mom says me and daddy are sweeter than she is.

The next day was just as hot. Once again we went for our walk in the evening. This time we went in the car. We went to the place that I had walked with my boyfriend, Gil. This time mom and dad had awful smelling bug spray. They sprayed me too. Mine was especially for dogs. A few minutes later another car arrived. I couldn't believe it! It was Gil and his mom!! The Iggies came too. They are Italian Greyhounds and they are Gil's brother and sisters. We were joined by a few more dogs and people. In all there were 8 dogs and 6 people.  We walked around the lake and even got to go for a dip. Gil walked right in and laid down in the water. I stood in the lake and took a drink, but I didn't lay down. The Iggies wouldn't go in at all. We had a Huskie dog with us too. She kept going in the water every chance she got. It was a lot of fun. We walked about 2  miles.

Monday I went to the Vet. Nothing bad, just a check up. The vet said my teeth looked really good. I did have to get a shot and I also got my nails clipped.  I don't have to go back for a while. I'm glad about that!!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I Have My Yard!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/668832</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 27 Apr 2010 15:38:05 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/668832</guid>
		<description>The men came a little before 9 am this morning.  I watched them put up the fence through the living  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ The men came a little before 9 am this morning.  I watched them put up the fence through the living room window.  It only took them about 2 hours. It looks very nice. Mom says I can't use the yard until tomorrow. There is concrete that needs to harden. Daddy was afraid I might hit the fence before the concrete was ready. It is raining out too. The rain didn't start until this afternoon so I was able to get my long walk in with mom. When we got home from the walk, mom let me explore my yard a little bit. I had to stay on the leash today.

Daddy made a funny video.  Here is a link if anyone of my pup pals wants to watch it


http://en.tackfilm.se/?id=1272384792458RA64

Mom wants to put it on my Dogster page but she doesn't know how to do it.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Taking The Good With The Bad</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/668560</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 26 Apr 2010 05:55:14 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/668560</guid>
		<description>Mom and dad took me for a long walk down the river trail on Saturday. It wasn't too hot and it was v ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom and dad took me for a long walk down the river trail on Saturday. It wasn't too hot and it was very nice. We stopped to sit on the rocks and watch the river before we turned around to go back home. On our way back home we passed my friend Copley's house. Copley's mom and dad were outside doing yard work. Copley was in the back yard and they invited me to a play date!! I was so happy!! They have a big back yard too!! Copley and I ran and ran. He could keep up with me pretty good too!! He isn't a full greyhound, so I was still faster, but he did great!! Copley's mom brought out a bowl of water for us. Well, I tired myself out and then we had to walk home!!!! Mom kept teasing daddy that he should carry me!! I was tired but it wasn't too far. I crashed on my bed when we got home. Later in the evening daddy went to his annual "end of year" skating party. Mom decided to stay home with me and the cats. She gets a bit bored at the party and doesn't know the other people there that well. It was a good thing she stayed home. After daddy left I started to feel sick in my tummy. I got sick about 4 times while daddy was gone and twice after daddy got home. I couldn't eat my supper either.  Mom thinks that either I ran to hard or I ate grass that might have had lawn chemicals on it. I don't know either, but I sure didn't feel well. The next morning I felt a little better. My tummy was making strange noises and I still didn't feel much like eating. Mom put my bowl down and I didn't eat it at first. Mom was getting worried now and went upstairs to talk to daddy. My hearing is very good and I heard her talking about bringing me too the vets!! I figured it was time to eat after all and cleaned my bowl. Mommy was very happy. I kept it all down and felt much better. Later in the afternoon some people came over to watch a DVD and eat food. Mom's friend, Lisa, asked if she could bring her dog (and my friend) Kiera over. Mom said "yes". It was nice having another dog over.  After the humans ate and finished watching the DVD, we all went for a walk down the river trail. I walked with Kiera and it was very nice. I ate a good supper last night  and finished my breakfast in record time this morning. I'm glad I am all better now. Despite getting a little sick, it was a nice weekend. Mom says my fence goes up tomorrow!!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Ouch! My Ears!!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/668128</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 23 Apr 2010 16:40:29 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/668128</guid>
		<description>We had an interesting day today. It started out like any other. Mom came home from work and took me  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We had an interesting day today. It started out like any other. Mom came home from work and took me for my noon day walk. It was nice outside and I enjoyed it.  Mom gave me a cookie when we got back and I took it to my bed to enjoy. Mom rode her exercise bike and took a shower. Mom had just got out of the shower when this terrible loud noise was blasting through the entire house. It was high pitched and hurt my ears. Mom ran downstairs in just a towel and was looking all over the house! She even ran down the basement. I didn't know it then, but it was the smoke detectors! Mom was checking for a fire in the house. There wasn't any fire, thank goodness, but the sound wouldn't stop. It hurt my ears so badly that I started howling. My cat brother , Ben, also started crying!My other cat brother, Charlie, just looked scared. Mom ran back upstairs and put some clothes on. I kept howling, Ben kept crying and the smoke detectors kept screaming. Mom put my harness on me and put me in the car. Then she ran back inside and started pulling down the smoke detectors and pulling out the batteries. After she pulled the batteries out of the second one, they all stopped. What a relief!! Mom went out and got me from the car. It was chaos for a few minutes. I hope that doesn't happen again!!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Spring Activites</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/666619</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 15 Apr 2010 11:39:19 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/666619</guid>
		<description>Spring is in full bloom here. The leaves are coming out on the trees and flowers are blooming every  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Spring is in full bloom here. The leaves are coming out on the trees and flowers are blooming every where. So many wonderful smells being carried on the wind. Last Sunday I went to a Meet and Greet at a pet store in Lexington, MA. My good friends Johnny B, Sonie, Troy and Oscar where there. I also met  a new friend named Benny. He was a big boy! I hung out with Oscar most of the time. We shared a nice comforter. After the Meet and Greet, mom and dad took me for a nice walk on the Minute Man trail. It was only a short drive away. We walked a new part of the trail that we hadn't walked before. I really enjoyed that. I have been going on a lot of long walks along the river trail. Mom took me there again today. we did about 2 miles because we were gone over 45 minutes. On the way back home, we passed a  little pool of water that was along the side of the road. Mom let me go in for a dip!! It was SO refreshing!! I was jumping around in the water and then I shook myself all over mom!!!! She didn't mind though. I get my yard on April 27th. Only a week and a half to wait!! I don't know much about the passing of time, but mom says it will be soon. Mom and dad are getting me a wading pool of my very own. That way I can take a dip when I get hot outside!! I think it is going to be a fun summer. My picture appeared in an article about greyhound racing on Facebook. The article was about the race tracks closing in New Hampshire. That is the race track I use to race at- Seabrook . Here is a link to the article:
http://www.facebook.com/?filter=app_134920244184#!/note.php?note_id=278477364977&id=59572733353&ref=mf

I hope the tracks all close down soon.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Easter Picnic</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/664852</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 5 Apr 2010 07:49:54 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/664852</guid>
		<description>It was just me and mom on Saturday. Daddy had to help run a ping pong tournament at MIT. He is one o ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It was just me and mom on Saturday. Daddy had to help run a ping pong tournament at MIT. He is one of the coaches for the club. It was such a beautiful Spring day. Mom and I walked the Assabet River Trail. We went down to the rocks and took a rest there before we headed back. We sat for a while and enjoyed the river. I started to get hot on the way back home. The trail is a dirt road (cars do go on it but they don't go on it often) and there were lots of puddles from the flood rains we had last week. I enjoyed walking through the puddles to cool my paw pads. Mom even let me take a quick dip in the river. When we got home,we jumped right into the car and mom drove us to the pet store near our house. Mom told me that the pet store would be closed on Sunday because it was Easter. We went inside the store and there was my friend Kiera and her mom and dad, Lisa and Mark. What a surprise!! They were shopping too!! Kiera got excited seeing me and had an accident in the store. Her mom had to clean it up. Mom chatted with Kiera's mom for a bit and then we bought our weekly supplies. We got dog and cat food, 2 raw hide bones for me, a flossie and of course my cookie. Daddy still wasn't home by my evening walk, so mom took me to Winter Street. We met a nice man and his dog and stopped to talk for a few minutes. The man and dog were working on a large machine that mom called a backhoe. It was big and noisy. The dog was riding inside it with the man so I guess it was OK. 

Sunday was another beautiful day. Mom and dad made food and started packing stuff in a bag. They put my harness on and we all got into the car. You can imagine my surprise when I realized that we were driving on Winter Street! We never drive there, we always walk there!! I started shaking from excitement. Daddy parked the car at the little park at the beginning of the River trail (The one mom and I walked the day before) We got out of the car and mom carried the bag to a small table in the park. Mom called them picnic tables and there were 3 of them. Mom connected 3 leashes together and tied me to the table. I was able to walk around a bit and explore as far as the leashes would let me. Being a greyhound, I am never allowed off leash unless I am fenced in. I could run off and get lost because mom and dad could ever catch me!! Mom gave me a plate of dog cookies and she also brought me a water bowl. Mom and dad ate their food at the table and enjoyed looking at the river. I drank some water but then as I was walking around, my leash got caught on the water bowl and tipped it over! Daddy gave me some of his water. Wouldn't you know it, I managed to knock the water bowl over again!!! I am just not good with leashes. I always get all tangled up!! After the picnic, mom, dad and I walked the river trail again.We went past the rocks this time and walked further. We met some other dogs and humans and saw humans riding bicycles. It was fun.On our way back, we stopped at the rocks for a little rest. It was a nice Easter afternoon.
Later mom and dad went and got some dirt for my yard.They filled holes left from where the trees had been. Daddy says we need a bit more and will get more later. The fence is going to cost more money than daddy had hoped. I will still get my fence soon but we have to wait until daddy can sell something called "stocks" to help pay for it. Daddy wants the stocks to go higher. I am not sure what he means, but I can be patient. I am better than mommy at being patient!!! BOL!!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Some Nice Surprises</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/663454</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 29 Mar 2010 13:58:35 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/663454</guid>
		<description>Mom is behind in my diary again. I know she has been busy. I have been going on some very fun walks. ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom is behind in my diary again. I know she has been busy. I have been going on some very fun walks. Last Sunday mom and dad got me into the car.We drove to new place. When I got out of the car my doggie boyfriend, Gil was there with his mom and dad!! I almost took daddy's arm off because I was jumping around from so much joy!! Gil's brothers and sister were there too. They are Italian Greyhounds and look like miniature versions of me and Gil. They were very nice and all greeted me. We all took a long walk around a lake. The walk was about 2 miles long. Gil and I had the best time! We met some other dogs too. It was very pretty around the lake. I also had 2 nice walks with my other friend,Copley. He is a Greyhound mix. He looks a lot like a full Greyhound though. On one walk we went into our town. Copley's dad had to buy grapefruit juice so we tagged along. The other walk was down the river trail across the street. I had so much fun. It is raining today so I haven't wanted to go out. Mom makes me go for potty, but I don't really want to. The river in our town is under a flood watch! We just saw it on the news. I hope our town is OK!!! I love our town and the river runs right through the middle of it!! The fence guy comes tomorrow to give mom an estimate. Mom and dad and our friend, Lisa got all the little pine trees removed from the yard. Mom and dad also got the satillite dish pole out of the ground. Mom is very glad that it is gone. I am so excited about my yard. I hope it won't cost mom and dad too much money.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Spring Has Sprung!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/661995</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 21 Mar 2010 11:43:28 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/661995</guid>
		<description>Mom said that yesterday was officially the first day of Spring. It has been nice weather all week. Y ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom said that yesterday was officially the first day of Spring. It has been nice weather all week. Yesterday it was over 70 degrees. Cooler today, but still very nice. Mom and dad took me on a long walk down the trail across the street both yesterday and today. We went to the bridge and back. I like sniffing all the new smells. On Friday mom and I even saw a butterfly!! Yesterday, after the walk we went to the pet store.Then mom and dad did a strange thing. Mom tied 3 leashes together. We all went in the back yard and mom tied me to the satellite pole so I could be outside with them. Mom and dad started digging all the plants up and dad took the satellite  dish off the pole. Mom told me that a man is coming over on March 30th to give them an estimate on a fence. They are going to fence in the yard for me! They are taking all the plants out to give me more room to run.They are going to plant grass for me too. I will have an "L" shaped yard/run when they are finished. It will be small but it will be all mine and I will be able to run around a bit. Today we are going to the hardware store to buy grass seeds. Mom wants to get something durable because I really dig into the ground when I run.Mom and dad are also going to remove the pole. Mom really hated the dish. She said it was ugly. We have Fios now any way so we don't need the dish or the pole any more. Next weekend, Kiera's mom is going to help mom and dad dig up the small pine trees in the yard. Mom is going to donate the trees to the town's Spring plant sale to help the community. I can't wait to get my yard. As soon as it is ready, daddy will take a picture of me in my yard and I will post it here on Dogster so everyone can see it.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A Walk In The Woods</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/658357</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 2 Mar 2010 12:53:13 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/658357</guid>
		<description>It has been a long wet winter. I don't like the rain or the snow- at least when it is falling. When  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It has been a long wet winter. I don't like the rain or the snow- at least when it is falling. When there is a storm outside, I do my business and come right back inside where it is warm and toasty. Finally the weather is getting a bit warmer and the days are getting longer. Mom and dad took me to a special adventure on Sunday. First we made our usual trip to the pet store. I got my cookie. From the pet store we drove for a little bit and stopped at a dirt parking lot that I had never been to before. It had a lot of good smells and lots of other dogs had been there. We walked up a wooded path. There were 2 humans and a dog with very short little legs. Mom calls them Corgi's. We greeted and continued to walk on the trails. There were lots of trails and woods. I had a fun time sniffing around. Some of the trails still had ice on them, so we couldn't go on them. We still found a lot of paths that we could walk. Mom and dad said they will take me back there and we can explore more once all the snow and ice is gone. On our way back to car we met another nice dog and his people. It was fun. We came back home and rested a bit. Then mom and dad put my harness on and we went to my friend, Oscar's house. I hadn't seen Oscar since I hurt my foot. It felt good to run in his back yard. I ran and ran and ran. Poor Oscar tries to chase me, but he will never catch me!! We played a game around the shed- around and around it we ran.  I had a lot of fun. Today it was in the 50's. I didn't have to wear my fleece when I went on my noon walk with mom. It felt good not to have to wear it!! I'm looking forward to Spring!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>One Year Anniversary!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/653894</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 8 Feb 2010 08:41:11 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/653894</guid>
		<description>Yesterday was my one year anniversary that I came to live with mom and dad! I have come a long way i ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yesterday was my one year anniversary that I came to live with mom and dad! I have come a long way in one year! I was very shy and timid and wouldn't even leave my crate at first. I would only walk up and down in front of the house on my street. Now I can say I have been in a parade!! Wow!! I have traveled to other states, had a birthday party, been on play dates, meet and greets, pet fairs and even won a Halloween Costume Contest. I also go on long walks with mom and dad wherever they want to go. Mom and dad say they are very proud of me. I think I have left my old life behind now. I like being part of a family.

Yesterday we went to a meet and greet. I saw Troy, Johnny B, Sonie and met a couple of new friends. One couple came to a meet and greet a couple of weeks ago. They said they were seriously thinking about adopting a greyhound. Well, they stopped by yesterday---- with their new greyhound!! He was a big handsome brindle boy!! I was so happy!! Mom and dad bought me a special cookie for my anniversary. I also got some special venison treats. It was a nice day.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Back to Horn Pond</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/652083</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 31 Jan 2010 07:55:53 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/652083</guid>
		<description>It has been a long cold Winter so far. Not much going on for doggie activities. I have been going fo ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It has been a long cold Winter so far. Not much going on for doggie activities. I have been going for my regular walks and trips to the pet store. I even went to the hardware store with mom and dad last week. They needed my help in buying a light bulb. Sometimes I don't know how they managed all those years without me. last week it was snowing so daddy drove mom to work. Mom hates driving in the snow. She is scared. I went along just for the ride. Last Sunday was a bit more exciting. Greyhound Adventures had a walk at Horn Pond. Mom and dad took me. It was fun. Once again, because of the snow and ice, we weren't able to do the whole walk. We had to turn around and go back the way we came. I am looking forward to Spring. Mom says I have a meet and greet next weekend. That is something to look foward too.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Happy New Year</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/647760</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 9 Jan 2010 12:22:08 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/647760</guid>
		<description>I hope everyone of my Dogster Pals had a safe and happy holiday season! Wishing you all the best in  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I hope everyone of my Dogster Pals had a safe and happy holiday season! Wishing you all the best in 2010. 
Things have been quiet for me these past few weeks. It has been cold and snowing a lot. I have been going on my normal walks with mom and dad. I get the usual sniffing in but nothing too exciting. Last night I met Copley and his mom when we were taking our walk. Once the weather gets nice again, I will be able to go over his house to play. I was sad when we went our separate ways. He is a nice dog.
Today I had a Meet and Greet at the pet store near my house. Troy and his mom came. We both got our nails trimmed. I let most of the people pet me. Mom says I am an ambassador for my breed. My fellow greyhounds really need help right now. A lot of the race tracks are closing down and many dogs need homes. Greyhound Friends took in over 50 dogs last week. I am glad the tracks are all closing, but I am also concerned that a lot of my brothers and sisters are homeless. We met some people today who are serious about adopting. I hope they do. Mom says I have another meet and greet next weekend. She said that Gil would be there. I am excited about that.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Winter Wonderland</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/644651</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 25 Dec 2009 12:42:19 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/644651</guid>
		<description>Mom got behind in my diary again. She has been busy so I guess I will excuse her... This Time!

La ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom got behind in my diary again. She has been busy so I guess I will excuse her... This Time!

Last weekend we got something called a blizzard! It happened over night- literally. Everything was fine when I went for my last evening walk. When I woke up the next morning, the whole world had changed!! It was still snowing when mom and I went for my morning walk. I was jumping and leaping around in the snow. Later, I watched daddy as he shoveled the driveway. The snow was light and fluffy and mom and dad didn't want to go far, so daddy called Oscar's mom and I got a play date with him in the snow! They don't live far away from us and mom has a car that is good in the snow. This was the first time that I had got to run since my bandage came off. Mom and dad felt it would be OK because the snow was soft. I ran and ran in the snow. Oscar couldn't even begin to keep up with me. It felt so good to stretch my muscles. One time I actually stuck my entire head in the snow. I looked funny when I pulled it out! I shook it all off. It was fun. Well, I over did it again and I opened up a small tear near my original wound! Luckily it was any thing serious, but I had to stop running. Mom just cleaned it with the antiseptic solution the vet had giver me. I am fine. Daddy says I have to slow down and not run so hard. That is difficult for me. Daddy took a video of me running. I asked him to put it on my Dogster page and he said he will later.

Today is something called Christmas Day. Mom took me for a special walk down Winter Street. I met a couple of nice dogs. Mom put my special holiday collar on. Mom is going to get me a special extra large raw hide bone at the pet store tomorrow. I got extra bones and cookies today too. It was nice.
Happy Holidays to all my Dogster pals.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Holiday Party</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/641919</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 13 Dec 2009 15:53:08 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/641919</guid>
		<description>I made a new friend last Thursday. Daddy was taking me for my evening walk down Winter Street. I was ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I made a new friend last Thursday. Daddy was taking me for my evening walk down Winter Street. I was having a heck of a time trying to find a place to go to the bathroom. We got snow on Wednesday! Now there is snow everywhere! I can't find any leaves or plants to go on! I was frantically searching when I saw another dog. It was a greyhound! I was so excited! His name is Copley and he lives right on Winter Street! Daddy and I walked with him and his new parents. He just came to live there. Daddy asked where he came from and the his new dad said Greyhound Friends! Daddy told him that we volunteer for them. When the weather gets good again, I will have a play date with Copley. I finally did find a place to go!

On Friday I had a vet check for my foot. I am all better! No more antibiotics! Yippee!! Daddy had the day off so we went to the pet store. I got this really cool cookie. It looked like a white snow flake. The best part was that it had sprinkle stuff on top. Mom enjoyed watching me eat it. I licked all the good stuff off before I ate the cookie. Mom said that is how a lot of humans eat cookies too. Guess we aren't all that different!

Saturday was quiet. Daddy was in a skating show at Boston College. I couldn't go. Today was a lot of fun! I went to a holiday party at Greyhound Friends with mom and dad. Mom said I was a social butterfly! I actually went up to people to get petted. Gill was there!! I was so happy to see him. I kept an eye on him to make sure he didn't flirt with any of the other girl greyhound there. I wore my holiday bandanna that I wore in the parade last weekend. I looked festive. It is raining out now. Mom says it's better than snow.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Maynard Holiday Parade</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/640490</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 6 Dec 2009 15:24:01 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/640490</guid>
		<description>I went back to the vets on Wednesday. She took my bandage off. My foot is feeling much better. I sti ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I went back to the vets on Wednesday. She took my bandage off. My foot is feeling much better. I still have to be on antibiotics for a few more days, but the wound is healing fine. I will be seeing the vet one more time this Wednesday just to make sure I am all healed.

Yesterday was Saturday. Mom gave her class on how to pick a puppy. She held the class at the Maynard library. Quite a few people came and mom did a good job. I couldn't go because for some reason, dogs can't go to into the library. Mom did show everyone a picture of me though and there was a picture of me and mom in the newspaper! The paper interviewed mom for the class. When mom and dad came home, they took me to the pet store. We bought food, toy mice for Charlie, a new rawhide bone and a special holiday cookie. When we went out for our evening walk it was snowing!!! It has been a long time since I saw snow. Mom and dad adopted me when there was snow on the ground. I wanted to play in it. I like snow. Mom doesn't.

Today was Sunday. Mom and dad were late taking me for my walk. I was a bit confused. Finally they put me coat on and we left the house. I was expecting to go down Winter Street but mom and dad took me in the opposite direction. Then I thought we were going to the Farmer's Market again because that was the direction we were going . There were a lot of people walking around on the street. Well, we didn't end up at the market. We walked to a large parking lot where there were even more people! Then I saw other dogs! My friend Keira was there and also another greyhound that I had met last summer- at the Farmer's Market. There were about 10 dogs in all and mom's friend, Lisa and her husband, Marc. Lisa gave me a holiday bandanna. Mom put it on me. Things started to get noisy. There was a heliocopter flying around. Santa Claus was in it!! Next thing I knew we were walking! Mom and Lisa were carrying a banner for the MayDog group. We walked downtown and there were people standing on the sidewalks cheering and clapping. Mom and Lisa were waving to everyone. The strange thing was that we were walking right in the middle of the road! Usually I am not allowed to walk there because cars go there. There were no cars today. Some people had dogs standing on the sidewalk watching the parade (That is what mom called it) There were two German Shepherds that I had met before. Keira knew them too and she didn't like them- AT ALL. Next thing I knew, Keira lunged and barked at them and they lunged and barked back! I stayed out of the way. No one got hurt and we continued on. Marc took Keira home. We walked a long way and ended back at the parking lot that we started from. We were on our way back home when we ran into the two German Shepherds. They were very nice to me. I appoligized to them for Kiera's behavior. She gets bossy sometimes. We were almost home when daddy saw the goat was near the fence. We stopped to say "Hi" to the goat. He didn't want to play today and ran away. Daddy says it was because I had "lamb on my breathe".  When we got home, mom and dad put up Christmas lights outside on the trees and the front railing. I'm tired! I just want a nap!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Thanksgiving Weekend</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/638710</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 28 Nov 2009 17:54:49 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/638710</guid>
		<description>I hope everyone had a very Happy Thanksgiving! We sure did! We had dinner at our house this year. Gr ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I hope everyone had a very Happy Thanksgiving! We sure did! We had dinner at our house this year. Grammy, Auntie Ruth and Cousin Leila came over. Everyone brought food. My parents don't have a traditional Thanksgiving because they don't eat meat or animal products. Everyone who came to dinner were pretty much vegetarian too. Mom likes to call it ThanksLiving. I like that. I am not a vegetarian and neither are my cat brothers, although I do enjoy an occasional vegetarian dinner. Mom had to go over to Troy and Oscar's house to feed them their dinner and let them out for a break. She wasn't gone long though and made it back in plenty of time to have dinner. It was nice and I was much more relaxed with my family there. I had met everyone before. Auntie Ruth thought I was too mellow, but I was just being me.

Friday was a very wet and rainy day. Mom and dad were fed up with my plastic bootie that I have to wear to keep my bandages dry and clean. It kept falling off and to be honest, it wasn't comfortable anyway. Mom remembered seeing booties at the pet store. She told daddy about it and said I could wear them in the winter too when it is really cold and snowy. We all got into the car and went to the pet store. Daddy thought I should get size medium. We bought the booties and dog and cat food. I also got a new raw hide bone and my cookie. When we got home, mommy tried my new bootie on. It was way too big. I needed size small. Even though I am a big dog and weigh 70 pounds, I have very small feet. Mom and dad went back to the store and exchanged them for small ones. They fit me great. They are much more comfortable and I can walk normal with it on. It also stays on my foot. I'm glad to be done with that plastic thing which was actually an IV bag!

Today was a nice day, so we went to NH to visit Grampy. It was nice because we couldn't see him on Thanksgiving. He lives over an hour away and he can't drive that far anymore. I got to go out in the back yard. I played a little and even ran a little bit- not too fast and not too hard- just right. After grampy's we went to the health food store in Portsmouth, NH. I couldn't go in because they sell food there. I had to wait in the car. Mom and dad were quick. Next we went to grammy's house. Mom and dad ate some food. Then we went back home. It was nice seeing family this weekend.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Another Trip To The Vets</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/637929</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 25 Nov 2009 07:59:28 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/637929</guid>
		<description>I had to have my wound looked at today. My cat brothers, Ben and Charlie had to have their yearly ph ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I had to have my wound looked at today. My cat brothers, Ben and Charlie had to have their yearly physical. I had to share the back seat of the car with Charlie. Ben was on mom's lap because he knows how to escape from the cat carrier. They weren't too happy about the whole thing and cried the entire ride. Thank goodness he vet is just down the street. Ben saw the vet first and then Charlie. Both cats have to have their teeth cleaned in February. Charlie is also on a diet. He is a bit too chubby. Next it was my turn. The vet cut my old bandage off. My wound was still raw and tender but it is healing. She cleaned it and put a new bandage on. This one is blue. I have to go back in a week. Hopefully the bandage will come off for good. The vet said my nail should grow back in time. I was glad to be home! I am a bit upset because I can't run or play for another whole week!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Back To The Vets Again!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/637071</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 21 Nov 2009 16:03:06 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/637071</guid>
		<description>First I want to say Thank You to all my Pup Pals for the wonderful birthday wishes and gifts. You he ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ First I want to say Thank You to all my Pup Pals for the wonderful birthday wishes and gifts. You helped make my Birthday very special.

Daddy has another co-worker who has a big fenced in yard and a dog. He invited me, mom and dad to come over for a play date this afternoon. I was all excited because I haven't had a chance lately to really run. The yard was huge. The other dog was slow and she couldn't catch me. I was running like the wind, when suddenly my left hind foot really hurt. I stopped dead in my tracks and cried. Daddy came over to check on me and I cried again and wouldn't move. Mommy came over and checked my legs and I seemed to be OK.  The humans waited for a few minutes and then they started to walk around the yard so I would follow them. Mom and dad wanted to see if I was limping. I followed and started to run again. Mom and dad thought everything was OK. Daddy's friend's wife suddenly noticed blood all over the leaves! Mommy checked me again and sure enough, it was me! I had torn a nail right off my foot! Mom did some quick first aid, but it was bleeding a lot. Daddy got me into the car and we headed right to the emergency vets! We were close so it only took about 5 minutes to get there. My toe continued to bleed a lot and got all over the floor of the waiting room. There was a dog who had just been hit by a car, so they had to take care of her first. Daddy also had to run back to our house because they needed my rabies vaccine records. Otherwise I would have to get vaccinated again!! Please NO!! Mommy stayed with me. After waiting about an hour, the vet saw me. My foot is all bandaged up and I am on pain medication and another antibiotic! I can't run for awhile and I can only go on shot walks for a few days. My cat brothers, Ben and Charlie have their annual check up on Wednesday. Mom and dad are bringing me too so my vet can check the wound and see if I need another bandage. The emergency vet will fax over all m information to my regular vet. My foot hurts!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Today Is My Birthday!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/635782</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:42:47 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/635782</guid>
		<description>I turn 3 years old today! Wow, a lot has happened to me in those 3 short years. I went from racing d ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I turn 3 years old today! Wow, a lot has happened to me in those 3 short years. I went from racing dog to being injured to beloved family member all in such a brief time. 

Saturday was a good day. Daddy had to teach skating, so mom and I went to the pet store near my house for a meet and greet for Greyhound Friends. Everyone who worked at the pet store recognized me because I won the Halloween contest. Mom and  I were the first ones there, so we set up the table and chairs. A nice man gave mom a $20 donation!! That was so wonderful! A short time later, Troy and his mom came and then another lady came with her foster dog, Bandit. Mom knew Bandit from the kennel. He is 9 years old and has been at Greyhound Friends for 3 years. He is now in a foster home and doing well. Another lady came with her greyhound, Monica and another foster dog named Jet. We had a lot of people stop by to see us. We were there for about an hour and then daddy joined us. I was happy to see him. We collected a total of $56 for the shelter! I love helping my brothers and sisters. After the meet and greet we went back home for a few minutes. Daddy wanted to drop off one of the cars at the house. I also needed to take a bathroom break. It was back into the car after that. Daddy drove us to Dirty Hairy's Dog Wash. I got a bath so I would be all nice and clean for my Birthday. Mom chose peppermint shampoo and I also got oatmeal conditioner. I was still shaking a bit, but I felt SO good after my bath. My coat is all bright and shiny. We left the dog wash and daddy drove to Walmart to pick up my antibiotics. I have to take them for 28 days. I really do feel fine, but mom says I have "Bugs" inside of me that need to leave. It's OK because I get a cookie after I take my medicine.

Mom and dad were very busy on Sunday. They were cleaning the whole house and cooking lots of food. Mom and dad ran to the store and came back with 4 huge balloons. They were blue, green, yellow and a darker blue that mom calls purple. Mom made a little sign to put out on the lawn and tied 2 ballons to it. The other 2 went on the railing of our front door. A short time later a car came and parked in out driveway. I couldn't believe it! It was my friends Johnny B. and Sonia and their mom and dad. Next Bella came with my pet sitter Sarah. Sarah took care of me while mom and dad were on vacation. Then the best surprise of all! My boyfriend, Gill came! He is a big handsome brindle boy!! Sorry girls, he's taken! Then Kiera came with her dad Mark!! They brought me toys and sang Happy Birthday to me. Then we dogs got a special dog cake! The humans had one for themselves that had chocolate in it. Mom said dogs can't have chocolate. That was fine, I enjoyed my cake. I got to hang out with my friends all afternoon and into the evening. Everyone had a great time. This was my first birthday party. Gill turns 4 next month. I hope he has a party too. What a wonderful day it was!!!

Today is Monday, and it is the actual day I was born. I was the second puppy born in my litter. I don't know where my litter mates are. Some may still be out there racing. I hope they all get good homes and birthday partys like I did. We never got anything like that at the track. I wish them a Happy Bithday too.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I Went To The Vets</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/634666</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 11 Nov 2009 12:04:26 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/634666</guid>
		<description>I thought things were strange this morning. Mom got up earlier than usual to take me for my morning  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I thought things were strange this morning. Mom got up earlier than usual to take me for my morning walk. The morning routine started off normal, but I was a bit confused when I didn't get breakfast. The cats got to eat! Next thing I knew, mom had my harness on and me, mom and dad were in the car. The vet is only down the street. It takes about 2 minutes to drive there. We went inside and I knew where I was. I started to shake and got nervous. Everyone was very nice to me. I didn't want to go out back into the hospital area. Mom and dad both went with me, because I statued in the waiting room. The vet technician gave me my lyme vaccine and took blood for my yearly heartworm/tick panel. I was glad to leave and come back home. Mom gave me breakfast and a treat she picked up at the vet. At noon we went for a long walk down Winter Street. All was well until the phone rang. It was the vet with my blood work results. Thankfully my heartworm was negative. My other results were not so good. It seems that somewhere at sometime, I got bit by a tick. Mom and dad have both been very careful all Summer. I am on Frontline every month, was given the lyme vaccine and inspected for ticks. Daddy did find 2 in the house, but they were on him and crawling on the wall. They didn't have any blood in them or anything. The Doctor said I was infected with lyme disease and also something called Anaplasmosis. I have to go on antibiotics. Mom and dad are picking up my prescription at Walmart this weekend (It is only $10 there!). After my antibiotics, they will do something called a CBC- which means complete blood count. The vet said I could have picked this up anywhere, including while I was at the race track. She also said that I may never have any symptoms and might be fine for the rest of my life. The antibiotics won't hurt me, and could help me. Mom is upset. She called daddy and told him at work. Mom shouldn't blame herself. She takes very good care of me. Besides, I feel fine!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I'm An Advertising Model!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/634373</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:49:19 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/634373</guid>
		<description>As you probably know from my last few diary entries, I won the 2009 Monster Bark Pet Halloween Conte ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ As you probably know from my last few diary entries, I won the 2009 Monster Bark Pet Halloween Contest at the pet store near my house. Troy and Oscar's mom gets the stores monthly newsletter. She sent a link to my mom telling her that she might be interested in seeing it. Mom clicked on the link and there I was in the newsletter! Not only was I on there for winning the contest, but I was also on a coupon advertising 25% off food bowls and place mats! Mom and dad couldn't believe it. Check out my photos. Mom posted both pictures from the newsletter on my page.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Meet And Greet At Petco</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/633991</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 8 Nov 2009 15:39:02 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/633991</guid>
		<description>It was a quiet week. Mom took me for several long walks down Winter Street. Her ankle is still very  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It was a quiet week. Mom took me for several long walks down Winter Street. Her ankle is still very sore from when she sprained it. She has a hard time taking me to the Enchanted Forest. Tuesday, on our walk , mom noticed that there was some exercise equipment out on the road for people to take for free. There was an old bench and a bar with some old cement filled weight plates. The bar was exactly what mom was looking for. (mom has lifted weights for 25 years and we have a mini gym in our house) Mom took the weights off, grabbed the bar and carried it home. She carried it almost a mile! It weighed 15 pounds.

We went to the pet store on Friday. I used one of my gift certificates to buy food for me and the cats. I also bought a special toy for myself. It is a racoon with squeakies in it. It isn't stuffed though. It is just long fake fur cloth. I really love it. I was playing with it, shaking it and making it squeak. I also got my cookie. I still have a $25 gift certificate left, so mom is going to use it to buy dry kibble.

Saturday was real quiet because daddy had to run a table tennis tournament. It was just me and mom. We did go for a long walk but that was all we really did. Today was more fun. After mom and dad got home from church, we jumped into the car and headed for Petco. Greyhound Friends was the featured adoption shelter at Petco this month. People checking out could make donations to the shelter. I like going to meet and greets and it helps my fellow greyhounds who are looking for homes. My friend Gill was there!! I really like Gill. Mom said he would make a nice boyfriend for me. I also met a new greyhound named Noodle. She was black like me. 

Next weekend will be very exciting! I am have a birthday party! I turn 3 on November 16th. Gill is coming to my party too! It should be a lot of fun!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Happy HOWL-A-WEEN!!!!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/632057</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 31 Oct 2009 11:55:05 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/632057</guid>
		<description>Mom and I had quite the day. After my morning walk and breakfast mom did something very strange! I w ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom and I had quite the day. After my morning walk and breakfast mom did something very strange! I was relaxing on the rug, digesting my food when mom came over and put paper towels under my front paws. She had a little bottle with her. She opened the bottle and it didn't smell that good. Mom got down on her hands and knees and started to paint my toe nails purple!! That was a new one for me. I never can quite figure out humans. It didn't hurt or anything, so I patiently let her do all my nails- front and back. Next she put a beaded necklace on me. I had worn that before but I knew something was up. After my nails dried, mom finished dressing me. She put on purple and black stipped tights. It had a hole cut out for my tail. Then she put on a black cape over my harness. Next we got into the car. She drove me to Especially For Pets. Other dogs were there too and they were dressed funny. We got out of the car and mom put a silly purple wizard hat on my head. I didn't want to wear the hat and kept trying to dodge mom's attempts. Mom had brought along daddy's contact juggling ball to use as a crystal ball for a prop. The ball was in a bag on the trunk of mom's car. Well, some how the ball rolled out of the bag, and off the trunk. Mom heard it fall but she was still trying to get me to wear the hat. She finally succeeded and we spent the next 10 minutes looking for the ball! No luck!! Mom gave up and said that daddy was going to "be very mad at her". We went into the store and entered the contest. They took my picture and then we went shopping for dog and cat food and of course my cookie. Mom put the groceries in the trunk, me in the car, and set out to try to find the ball again. This time mom said a little prayer to her angels. A minute later, she found the ball!! We drove home and mom said we could take a break. She took the costume off. I thought that would be the end, but -NO! Mom had me entered in another contest!! Back into the costume I went! This contest was at Pet Source, which is the pet store near our house. They had a whole Halloween fair going on. It was called "Monster Bark". Mom went and I went into the store and entered me. We went back outside and I got to socialize with all the other poor dogs who were dressed in silly costumes. None of the dogs were too happy about it! Mom got free samples. I was entry number 4. They called my name and number and we had to go up in front of everyone. The announcer told everyone my name and who I was dressed as. I was Isis of course- Goddess of Magic. Some people thought I was a witch but mom corrected them. Mom got a few raffle tickets for entering me. They had contests for kids too. then they drew the raffle winners. I won a grooming brush!! That was cool. Mom can use it on me and the cats too. Then we all got togther for a group picture. I didn't like all those people close to me. I did OK though. After the picture we had a parade around the shopping center. My silly hat kept falling off and mom kept fixing it. After the parade they did another raffle for kids prizes. Since mom and I didn't have any kids with us, mom put all her free samples in the car and we headed back to the store to get a few things- like a bone and another cookie! Mom knew I was uncomfortable so she took the costume off. What a relief!! We were at the cash register when a lady from the pet store came up to mom and told her that I had WON!!! I won a $25 gift certificate to the store!! I couldn't believe it!!! Mom was very happy too. I am going to use it to buy a large bag of dog food. Since my birthday is coming soon, I know I will get some toys from that. I am glad to be home though. Mom said we might have kids coming over tonight and they will be dressed up funny too. Daddy wasn't with us today. He went to a vegetarian food festival in Boston. They are having the festival again tomorrow so mom stayed with me today and we had a girls day out- strange as it was!!! She will go with daddy to it tomorrow.

Well I was relaxing, thinking that all the excitement was over with for today when the phone rang. Mom answered it. It was the pet store where I won the contest. They said that they had made a mistake and that I had actually won $75 total!! Mom and I went back to the store and we got another $50 gift certificate to go with the $25 one!! I think I will get a toy after all!! Maybe, just maybe, I'll buy something for the cats.]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>The Enchanted Forest!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/630324</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 24 Oct 2009 06:29:19 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/630324</guid>
		<description>I was the one who found it!! The best part is that it literally right next door!! I found it on Thur ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I was the one who found it!! The best part is that it literally right next door!! I found it on Thursday!! Here's the story- I was on my morning walk with mom. We were heading back home so I could get my breakfast when I felt I needed to use the restroom. I am a very private dog and I don't like to "go" in front of people. There is a lawn that I really like, but every time I got ready to go, a car would go by or a person would come out of their house. Mom was getting frustrated so she took me to an overgrown area near the lawn I like. In the Summer time you really can't get in there because the grass is too high and there are raspberry bushes and other plants. Now that Fall is here it had died off quite a bit. So I went in the bushes and tall grass and kept walking into it. All of a suuden- there it was. The grass area opened up into a large enchanted forest! Mom was really surprised and so was I. It doesn't look like anyone owns the land. Other people do know about it because we found some trash in there- not much though. Anyway, I have been visiting the Enchanted Forest everyday now. Daddy still hasn't seen it. It is a rainy day today, but I want to show daddy when he gets home from teaching skating.

Daddy came home and I took him there. He liked it! Daddy also put my latest video on my Dogster Page. I very rarely bark but sometimes the mood just strikes me. Daddy video taped me barking! Check it out!
After lunch, we went to the pet store-Especially For Pets. They are having a Halloween Costume Contest too! Looks like I am going to be entered in two contests next Saturday. Mom is all excited. If it makes mom happy, I will do it. I got my cookie and a new raw hide bone. When we got home, mom took me for a walk. You guessed it, back to the Enchanted Forest I went! Then mom took my bed apart! She said she had to wash it. Personally I think it smelled great!! Mom said we are having a pot luck at our house tomorrow, so she wanted to clean everything. Humans!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Weird Weather</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/629513</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 20 Oct 2009 18:34:02 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/629513</guid>
		<description>Daddy had Friday off again. He took it as a personal day. That meant that I got to walk with Dakoda  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Daddy had Friday off again. He took it as a personal day. That meant that I got to walk with Dakoda again. He is a very friendly guy, but he is still a puppy and needs to learn some manners. He kept jumping in my face. I was very tolerant. despite all that, we had a nice walk. It was the last time I will be walking with him too. His mom isn't getting along with one of her roomates and they are moving back to New Hampshire this coming weekend. Mom is a bit upset because now she has to find another regular dog walking client. I know she will find a new client very soon. 

Saturday morning was quiet. Daddy is teaching skating again so it was just me and mom hanging out. When daddy got home we went for a nice long walk down Winter Street. We went down the trail and walked down to the bridge. I really enjoyed that. After the walk, mom and dad went to meet a friend for lunch. I wish dogs were allowed! Mom and dad made up for it though because they took me on another long walk through our town. We went to the little park again near where the Farmer's Market used to be. Mom said the market is gone until next summer. Mom closed the gate and daddy let me off the leash. I got to run and play. I really had fun. We left the park and mom and dad tried to get me on that elevator thing again!! No way!!! Did they think that I had forgotten about that? I went into statue mode and refused to budge. I got my way and we walked up the hill and through the garage. It was a quiet day, but I got some good exercise.

Sunday was when the weird weather came. It got really cold. It is only mid October and the trees around here still have most of their leaves. The temperature is supposed to be in the 60's this time of year. Well, it went down in the 30's and it was snowing out!! Daddy video taped it! It was strange to see all the fall trees with snow coming down. I had to wear my new winter coat. It was supposed to be given to me on my birthday but mom had to give it to me early. I was nice and warm with it. Later in the afternoon I got to go to the pet store for food, bones and my cookie.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I Was Blessed!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/627138</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 10 Oct 2009 19:44:24 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/627138</guid>
		<description>Not much happened last weekend so mom didn't add an entry. It rained all day Saturday. Our town of M ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Not much happened last weekend so mom didn't add an entry. It rained all day Saturday. Our town of Maynard had it's annual Oktoberfest street fair. Mom was there for her dog training business and she was also there for MayDOG (Maynard Dog Owner's Group). The rain really affected things and not many people came. Mom was a bit disappointed. Sunday was a bit better. The weather had cleared. I got to go to the pet store and I went on a MayDOG walk with my friend Kiera. We went down the trail across the street from my house. Kiera's mom gave me a dog coat, but it didn't fit. It was way too small. Mom ordered me a special greyhound winter coat so I will be toasty warm when the cold weather hits.

Friday, daddy took the day off of work. He had a dentist appointment. He got home early enough so Daddy and I went with mom when she went to walk a dog client. Mom walks 2 dogs as part of her business. This dog was named Dakoda. He is a long haired German Shepard. He is still young and acts like a big puppy. We got along fine and we had a nice long walk together. That was fun. Daddy walked me and mom walked Dakoda. He really wanted to play with me. When we got home, the mail had arrived. My new coat was in the mail delivery! Mom opened it to try it on me. It fit great! It has a gortex outer shell which is water proof and a polar fleece lining. It also has a neck warmer and snood. Mom says she is going to wrap it up because it is my birthday present. Mom bought a purple coat because I look really good in purple. By some strange coincidence, it is also mom's favorite color!

Today was Saturday. We all got up very early. After breakfast we got into the car and drove a long way. We ended up at Mill Pond in Newbury, MA. There is a recreational park and pond there. Mom's old church was having a pet blessing and mom wanted me to be blessed. Mom really misses her old church but it is too far away from where we live now. The church is called Unity On The River and is in Amesbury, MA. Mom and dad go to another Unity church closer to our house in Cambridge. Anyway, we walked down to the pond but no one was there. Someone told us that we had to go back to the parking lot because all the pets walked in a parade down to the pond. We turned around and started to head back to the parking lot. We went half way back when mom saw her old minister, Shipley. If mom had a tail it would have been wagging! Mom and Shipley were so happy to see each other. Shipley gave mom a big hug and they chatted back down to the pond. We went back and met another couple with their dog. We waited but no one was coming. A kid ran down and said there were people waiting in the parking lot. Rev. Shipley told us to wait at the pond and she walked back to get the other people. Not too many people came. We all stood in a circle and the humans held hands. They prayed for all the animals everywhere. After that, each dog there got an individual blessing. I got 2 bones and a blessing certificate!
After the blessing, we got back in the car and drove to NH. We stopped at a pet store called Little Critters. Mom said she used to work there. One of the people she worked with was still there. Mom had fun talking to her. We walked all around the pet store. I got some food, a new rawhide bone and a great cookie. After the pet store, mom and dad stopped at a small health food store called the Blue Moon. It was a cool day so they left me in the car for a few minutes to order food to go. Mom came back after a few minutes and stayed with me while daddy waited for the food. Next we went to grampy's house. Mom and dad ate their food there. I got to run in grampy's back yard.  The yard is fenced in and I could go from the yard, into the garage and into the porch. I pretty much stayed with mom and dad though. I had fun at grampy's. Grampy had to go to his church, so we said our goodbyes and headed to grammy's house. Daddy wanted to stop at another health food store to get cookies. Mom stayed with me in the car. We arrived at grammy's and her neighbors invited me to play with their dog, Casey. I was kind of tired, but I ran around a bit. I took one of Casey's bones and started to chew on it. The neighbor said I could keep it! We visited with grammy awhile and then she had to leave to go to church!! I don't know what all this church stuff is!!! I fell asleep in the car on the ride home. What a busy day it was today! I am going to sleep well tonight.]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>I Rode In An Elevator!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/624983</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 1 Oct 2009 14:48:25 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/624983</guid>
		<description>Mom is behind again in my diary. She has been working very hard to get her business going as well as ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom is behind again in my diary. She has been working very hard to get her business going as well as work full time at her old job. After next week she will be cutting her hours down at the other job to 2 days per week. She just got a new client today!

Last Saturday we went to the Farmer's Market like usual. We took the car because daddy had to go to the bank after. It was a beautiful day so after mom and dad shopped, they put the food in the trunk of the car and took me for a walk by the river. There is a little park near the river and where the Farmer's Market is. To get to the park you have to walk through a parking garage. I was fine with the garage, but daddy wanted me to walk down some stairs. I planted myself firmly on all four legs and refuse to move. Mom and dad encouraged me, but there was no way I was going down those stairs. Daddy finally gave up and we had to walk around through the garage to get to the park. It is a small park but it is fenced in. I got to go off my lash for a bit while mom and dad sat on the bench. On the way back to the car mom and dad tried to get me to walk up the stairs! Humans just don't learn. I don't do stairs!!! Then mom suggested we take the elevator! I had no idea what an elevator was. Mom pushed a button and the door opened. Daddy led me into a very small room and then the door closed. Mom pushed another button inside and the darndest thing happened! The whole room started to move! I could feel the floor move under my paws! I wasn't scared exactly, but I was a bit confused. The room stopped moving and then a door on the opposite wall where we entered opened. I was in another place! Talk about strange.
Later in the day we went to Especially For Pets to buy food and cookies. They were having some kind of dog fair! Mom and dad had no idea they were having a fair that day. We just sort of stumbled upon it. A dog was coming out of the store and flipped out on his owner. A lady from the store helped him to calm down. Mom and dad kept me far away from the dog. I did get some free cans of dog food and some yummy bison treats. That was good. Mom also bought me this incredible cookie and the biggest raw hide bone I had ever had. It took me 4 days to finish it!! After the pet store, mom and dad took me for a nice long walk. It was a very fun day- except maybe the elevator- I'm still not quite sure what happened.

Sunday was wet and rainy. Greyhound Adventures was cancelled and it was too far away any way. Mom and dad went to something called church instead. When they got back, they started cooking in the kitchen. Sure enough, shortly after people started to come to the house. Everyone brought food. Mom called it a "pot luck". 11 people including mom and dad were there. The humans went around the room and introduced themselves. Mom introduced me to everyone like I was a human too. Some of the humans sat near my bed and petted me. I liked that. I wasn't too stressed out by it all and actually fell asleep. 

Today, mom had off from her other job. She only had one dog walking client, so we went for a long walk down the river trail across the street. It was a nice, cool, Fall day and we didn't see or meet anyone else. I enjoyed my time with mom. Mom said that once she cuts down her time at the other job, we will have more time together. That will be nice.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Mommy Got Hurt!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/622172</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 19 Sep 2009 17:24:26 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/622172</guid>
		<description>We walked to the Farmer's Market this morning. Mom said it is good for my socialization. I don't kno ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We walked to the Farmer's Market this morning. Mom said it is good for my socialization. I don't know why, but everytime I go there, a lot of people want to pet me. All these hands reaching out to me. It scares me. Mom was talking to a whole group of people about me. She tried to keep my stress level down by taking me away from any crowds. I appreciate that. Mom says the more I get out, the more comfortable I will be. I am getting better all the time. Mom says I can go at my own pace and she never forces me to meet people. After the Farmer's Market we went back home to put the food away. Our neighbor was having a yard sale. Mom noticed that she was trying to sell some nice comforters and blankets. She asked our neighbor if she would be willing to donate them to Greyhound Friends in Hopkington. They are always looking for blankets and comforters for bedding in the kennels. Our neighbor said "Yes". Mom put them in the trunk of the car and we got in. We stopped off at the pet store first and got food. I got a cookie and a new rawhide bone! I love going to the pet store. I am totally relaxed there. It is much more fun than the Farmer's Market. After the pet store, we went to Greyhound Friends. Louise Coleman runs it. She is very nice and loves greyhounds. She was very happy to get the blankets and comforters. Daddy asked if I could run in the big fenced in yard they have there. Louise said "Sure!" Daddy asked if there was a greyhound that would like to play with me. Louise brought out Brutus. He was very handsome. We liked each other a lot. We went into the yard and started to play. Mom was walking and watching us. She wasn't paying attention to where she was walking. Her foot fell into a deep hole and she fell down! Mom thought her ankle was broken. Luckily it is only a bad sprain. Daddy had to help her up from the ground. At first she couldn't get up! Brutus and I were just having too much fun to notice. I just thought that Mommy was tired. Mommy hobbled around afterward. She let us finish our play session and Daddy went to get us water. Mommy said she wished we could have taken Brutus home with us. I would have like that too. Mommy said maybe someday I can have a brother or sister. That would be nice. Mommy is resting now. She is wearing an ankle brace and put ice on her foot. Mommy is sorry, but she doesn't think we can go to Greyhound Adventures tomorrow because she can't walk very well. I understand. We can go next week if mom feels better. Daddy took me for my evening walk tonight. Mommy is walking very slowly. I'm happy with my new bone. I have been chewing on it for several hours now.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Pet Rock Festival</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/620880</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 13 Sep 2009 17:53:09 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/620880</guid>
		<description>It was a very busy weekend! Mom and dad didn't even get a chance to go to Farmer's Market! Saturday  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It was a very busy weekend! Mom and dad didn't even get a chance to go to Farmer's Market! Saturday was Greyhound Friends Fall Open House. We were in charge of the Silent Auction table. It was a cool, rainy day. They moved us inside into the conference room. There was a greyhound there  in a crate named Colleen. She kept growling and barking at me. I didn't know what her problem was. Mom set me up with my blanket and a water bowl. Daddy took me out for frequent walks. I did meet some nice people and let some of them pet me. Not many people came. We only got a few bids on the auction items. I did get my nails trimmed though. Because of the weather, I never got to enter the costume contest. Mom was a bit disappointed. 3 greyhounds did get adopted so that was nice. I was happy for them. In fact one was named Happy!

Sunday was a much nicer day. Mom put a pretty purple flowered bandana around my neck. We went to the pet store to buy food and a peanut butter cookie! Yummy!! My friend Mollie and her  mom and dad came by for a visit. Mom was sad. She told me that I might not be able to see Mollie again! Mollie was leaving to go back to live with her old owner! I am really going to miss her. I'll still have Kiera for a friend. Mollie's mom said that maybe she could talk Mollie's new/old dad to bring her on some of our group walks. I hope he does. After we said a sad goodbye to Mollie, we got into the car. We were on the highway when all the traffic stopped moving. Mom said there was a bad accident up ahead. We were stuck in traffic for about a half an hour. Finally we drove by a car upside down and another that was all smashed up. Daddy read later that no one was seriously hurt. After the traffic jam, we went to the Pet Rock Festival. There were thousands of people and dogs! We went to all the booths and met some more people. I was a bit shy, but I did OK. I got to go in a small swimming pool. That was fun. My friend, Gill was there with his mom, Carla. They were with Greyhound Friends.They had a music concert too. Mom was all excited! The feature band was a band that mom was crazy about when she was a teenager. It had been 30 years since she had seen them. They were called the Bay City Rollers. Actually only one original member was there. His name was Ian. Mom still had a great time. She was singing and dancing and connected with some other ladies who were big fans too. The music was a little too loud for me, so daddy walked around a big field with me. After the concert, mom got Ian's autograph and had her picture taken with him. She was happy. 
Mom called grampy when we got home. Grampy had very sad news. His cat, Smokie (I met him last weekend) had something called cancer. Grampy had to put him to sleep. Grampy really misses him. I could tell he was very sick. He couldn't eat anymore and had tumors inside of him. Mom and dad are sad too. I'm glad grampy has his other cat, Blackie to keep him company.
I'm tired now. It was a busy weekend. I still have my bandana on!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Labor Day Weekend</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/619424</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 7 Sep 2009 07:12:59 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/619424</guid>
		<description>On Saturday we went to Farmer's Market again. Daddy did the shopping while mom stayed with me. Molli ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ On Saturday we went to Farmer's Market again. Daddy did the shopping while mom stayed with me. Mollie's mom Lisa came over and started chatting. She was upset because Mollie has been barking too much. She has been doing a lot of training with Mollie but nothing is working. She said she was thinking of giving Mollie back to her original owner. I hope not. I love Mollie. She is my best friend. Lisa showed mom and dad her new electric scooter. It was cool. Mom stopped at a yard sale on the way home. She bought a crazy witches hat, some beads and leggings. They were for ME!!!! I am going to be in costume contest next Saturday. It is for Greyhound Friends fall open house. First prize is a $50 gift certificate. If I win, mom will use the gift certificate to get me a good winter coat. I am going as Isis- goddess of magic! I will look like a greyhound Harry Potter!!! Mom and Dad went out to lunch with some friends. I wasn't invited, humans only. On their way home, mom and dad stopped at a party store and bought me a cape for my costume! Mom cut the feet off the leggings and shortened them. She cut a hole for my tail. Daddy said they looked good on me. I'm not too sure about this whole costume thing. Mom and dad took me to the pet store. We went to the NEW Especially For Pets. They moved to a new location. It was great!!! I got a great cookie. I was drooling all over daddy's arm and trying to get into the front seat of the car to get it!! On my last walk of the night, a lot of things that didn't sell at the yard sale had been left in boxes for people to take for free. There was a box of stuffed animals. Mom got me a rabbit and a kitty. She took a few for herself too!

Sunday was a busy day! We went to NH to visit grammy, grampy and cousin Leila. First stop was grammy's house. She is daddy's mom. I had been there a few times before. The humans left me alone in grammy's house while they all went to the store to buy lunch. They weren't gone long. Mommy said that dogs can't go into places that sell food. I don't know why not? After lunch, mom and dad went outside to pick blue berries. I visited with grammy. After the blue berries were picked, I got to go play at grammy's neighbor's house. She has a fenced in back yard and a golden named Casey. There was also a puppy visiting named Bella. I ran and ran and ran and played with both dogs. I had played with Casey before but I had never met Bella. What fun I had. The humans enjoyed watching me run fast. The puppy tried to keep up with me but couldn't. I also found a great bone and chewed on it for awhile. After the play date it was time to visit grampy who is mom's dad. He has a fenced in yard too. I had been there before too. They were building a new house next to grampy's house. Mom and dad went inside and looked around. It is just being constructed. I was too tired to run in grampy's back yard. I did run a little. Grampy has two cats- Blackie and Smokie. I got to meet Smokie. He has been sick and has to go to the Vets soon. Grampy is going to call for an appointment on Tuesday when the office opens. Mom brought a lot of things home from grampys. I did get a new blanket which is nice. Next it was off to Cousin Leila's. I had never been there before. She has two cats too- Sammy and Mollie. They were a little scared of me, but I just laid there and did nothing. After a few minutes, they were fine with me being there. Mom, dad and cousin Leila had dinner. I laid down and was very good the whole time. We spent about 3 hours with each person. I was very tired. I actually slept until 8 am this morning. Mom said we would have a more quiet day today. That is fine with me. Mom said that next weekend will be busy too. More adventures! I can't wait!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I Went To Work!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/618471</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 2 Sep 2009 07:21:53 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/618471</guid>
		<description>Last weekend, mom's car started to smell funny after we went over a rough patch of road. Mom and dad ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Last weekend, mom's car started to smell funny after we went over a rough patch of road. Mom and dad were worried it could be something serious. It smelled like burning rubber. Daddy worked from home on Monday so he could take mom's car to get looked at. He drove mommy to work. When he went to pick mommy up, he asked me if I wanted to go too! Of course I did! I got to see where mommy worked. I must admit it was a very strange place. Mom works at a gym where people go to exercise. It was late at night so most of the people were gone. I got to go behind the desk. I was glad to see mom and now I know where she goes during the week. I was nervous though and I was shaking a little. I met mom's boss, a woman named Linda and Rose was there too (I met her once before). I was happy we didn't stay too long. Mom's car is OK for now. The rough road damaged one of the struts on the car and some fluid was leaking out on something hot. That was what was causing the smell. Mom will eventually have to replace the strut.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>More Adventures At Horn Pond</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/617958</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 31 Aug 2009 05:45:14 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/617958</guid>
		<description>The weather cleared up by morning so I got to go back to Horn Pond with Greyhound Adventures. A lot  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ The weather cleared up by morning so I got to go back to Horn Pond with Greyhound Adventures. A lot of dogs came this time. I think Horn Pond is a favorite walk for a lot of us (dogs and humans). It is very pretty and quiet. One thing I was very glad about was that the Indian statue was gone. It stands in the woods near the little beach we go to. It scares me every single time! I don't know what happened to it. Only the base was there. Everyone went into the pond. We cooled our feet and splashed around. Some of the dogs actually laid down in the water. Beau taught us to do that. He does it in every lake or pond we go to- even in the winter time! Louise laid in the water with Beau. Mom got a picture. After the dip in the pond we continued on our walk. A huge swan was standing on the bank. He looked like he meant business. We all kept our distance. Mom got a picture of him too. We went a little further and then took a new trail that I had never been on. It went through some woods. It was fun! I liked exploring new trails.
Later in the day dad arranged a play date for me with Oscar. This is the yellow Lab, Oscar, not the Greyhound, Oscar! We were happy to see each other. I ran fast circles around the yard. I was making everyone dizzy. I even let Oscar's dad pet me for the first time! That made him very happy. I have been over Oscar's about 4 or 5 times now and I would never let Oscar's dad pet me. Oscar's mom could, but not his dad. I warm up to women faster than men. Mom thinks that more men handled me at the track, so I don't trust them as much. We were getting ready to leave when I got a second wind and did another fast sprint around the yard. I had a fun weekend!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Rainy Saturday</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/617675</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 29 Aug 2009 17:56:36 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/617675</guid>
		<description>We had to wear our rain coats to the Farmer's Market this morning. We also drove in the car. The mar ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We had to wear our rain coats to the Farmer's Market this morning. We also drove in the car. The market was very quiet. Only a few people were there. After we got home and dried off a bit, it was time to hop in the car again. Daddy drove us to the pet store near our house. We were doing another Meet and Greet for Greyhound Friends. Johnny B's mom was there but she didn't bring Johnny. It was because of the rain. I thought I was going to be the only greyhound, but after a few minutes, Troy and his mom came. Oscar came too but he went home with his dad. Mom put my blanket on the floor and Johnny B's mom provided water. It was fun hanging out with Troy. The pet store was kind of quiet. Mom said it was probably due to the rain. I did very well at the Meet and Greet and I actually greeted some people and let them pet me. I was behind a fence so that made me feel comfortable. I am not shy if I am in a pen. When I am just on my leash, that is a whole other story. Maybe in time I will be comfortable enough to let people pet me when I am on my leash. Troy knows how to sit. I have a hard time with "sit". My hips don't work like that. Mom showed off a bit and showed everyone that I knew the "Leave it" command. They were impresed. I was actually taking treats from Troy's mom and Johnny B's mom. That was a mile stone in itself. I was also getting a lot of petting from Johnny B's mom. I even let a little girl come behind the fence to pet me. A lady with a love bird came over to us. The love bird sat on daddy's shoulder! After the Meet and Greet, mom and dad did pet food shopping. I got some treats (the same kind Troy had) and a big peanut butter cookie! Was that good!!!! 
We came home after shopping, put the pet food away and then mom and dad wanted to get food for them. They were going to leave me home, but I wanted to go. They let me come. It was a cool day so I could wait in the car. I enjoyed going for a car ride. I did very well waiting for them. Mom and dad ate, we watched a scary movie, and then mom and dad took me for a nice walk. The rain had pretty much stopped. It was still misty. We wore our rain coats just in case. After our walk, we got in the car again and went to Petco in Hudson. It is only about 15 minutes away. We needed cat litter for Ben and Charlie. The pet store near our house is too expensive. Mom also wanted to get me a no pull harness. I still don't like my head collar very much. She thinks I might like the harness better. The pet store near our house had them but again, it was too expensive. We got to Petco and went inside. Mom went to the harness section. They had all the sizes except the one I needed! Wouldn't you know it! Daddy went over to see the ferrets. A store worker let mom and dad pet one. They look like they would be fun to play with. They smelled funny though. We did get cat litter so that was good and then we came home. It was a busy day. Mom got on line and ordered my harness. She is getting me a purple one to match my purple leash. I look good in purple. Mom says we might go to Horn Pond tomorrow if the weather is nice. Troy's mom also said I can come over for a visit and play with Troy and Oscar some time soon. That will be fun.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My new video!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/617333</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 28 Aug 2009 06:06:20 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/617333</guid>
		<description>I am really starting to play with my toys now! I had never had a toy at the race track, so I didn't  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I am really starting to play with my toys now! I had never had a toy at the race track, so I didn't know how to play when I first came to live with mom and dad. They bought me lots of toys but all I would do with them was hoard them and keep them close to me. I liked them and was proud of them, but I didn't know how to play. I kept watching Ben and Charlie playing and I finally figured it out. Daddy caught me playing with the recorder on his digital camera. The toy I am playing with was the green pepper that I won in the raffle basket!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I Went To College</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/616367</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 24 Aug 2009 07:36:53 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/616367</guid>
		<description>Yesterday was Sunday which means it was Greyhound Adventure's day! Mom said the walk was close enoug ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yesterday was Sunday which means it was Greyhound Adventure's day! Mom said the walk was close enough to our house, so we could go. The walk was at Wellesley College around Lake Waban. As usual, I was all excited to see my friends. Aiken was there, and so was Louise and Johnny B. My new head collar was bother ing me and I was rolling around in the grass, trying to get it off. I was also rubbing against mom and dad. It wouldn't come off. Mom knows how to put it on right. Once the walk started, I settled right down. It was a beautiful walk. At one point, I got to go into the lake. That was refreshing. We came to a place that had funny looking trees. I think some one had made them funny looking. Mom and dad took pictures of them. The walk was a little shorter than usual because it was so hot outside. We did stop for several rests and water breaks.
When we got back home, mom told me to get some rest. I had another walk with Mollie and Kiera later in the day. Mom and dad went to Mollie and Kiera's house for a garden party that their mom was having. I wasn't invited to that. That was OK. I was kind of tired. 
Mom and dad came home from the party, rested up a bit and watched a movie. After that we got back into the car and went to Mollie and Kiera's house. We were all happt to see each other. Another dog named Finnagan, joined us for the walk. This was a different Finnagan from my white boxer friend. He was a ridgeback. He had been very sick and he was skinny. He didn't have much energy and was able to walk only a short way. His mom only did half the walk and then she turned around and went back home. As we were walking, we past a house. A man was sitting on the steps talking to a lady. The lady turned out to be Victoria. She is a friend of mom and dad's and also a friend of Mollie and Kiera's mom and dad. We visited at the house for a few minutes. He has a dog too. I got to meet him. Victoria joined us for the rest of the walk. We all went back to Mollie and Kiera's house and went inside. The humans had home made, soy icecream made from cherries from the garden. I played and hung out with Mollie and Kiera. It was a very fun day! Mom said that next week she is going to buy me a no-pull harness instead of the head collar. I might like that better.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Meet And Greet At Petco</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/616004</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 22 Aug 2009 15:32:48 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/616004</guid>
		<description>Mom and dad got up late. Well, mom got up at the usual time, walked and fed me and the cats, but she ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom and dad got up late. Well, mom got up at the usual time, walked and fed me and the cats, but she went back to sleep. When they got up, mom and dad were jumping in the shower and acting kind of crazy. Mom said they slept too late and we were going to be late. We took the car to Farmer's Market. Daddy was shopping and mom was in the grass with me talking to a man. He was asking questions about me. All of a sudden I saw another greyhound! I couldn't believe my eyes. I startled mom a bit when I went over to greet him. Mom talked with his human for a while. They live close to us. It was nice meeting another greyhound in my town. After the market, mom and dad put the veggies away and then we all got into the car. We drove by the dog wash place and went to Petco. We were going to a Meet And Greet for Greyhound Friends. Troy was there. I also met two other new friends. One was Oscar, Troy's new brother, and a very handsome man named Gill. I liked Gill and he liked me. We are about the same age. Mom said we may be able to go over Gill's house sometime and I can run with him in his yard. I would like that. They had a pen set up for us at the store. Mom brought us water and daddy brought in my blanket. I did very well today. I even let people pet me outside the pen. Mom was proud of me. She said I did very well. I wanted to show Gill what a brave girl I was. Gill was so relaxed that he laid on the floor right near the entrance. We all got a free cookie from the Petco Staff. Petco donated lots of bags of dog food to Greyhound Friends. We met a lot of nice people. Some of them were interested in possibly adopting. That would be great. It really started to rain hard while we were there. By the time we left the rain had stopped and the sun was out. We were almost back home when it started to rain again. Not very hard. Mom wanted me to do my business so she brought her umbrella to hold over us. I never got to pee because it started to really pour. We went back inside. Mom grabbed a towel and dried me off. After lunch, the rain had stopped again so we went for a nice walk. It was a bit cooler after the rain and the roads were wet so it cooled my paws. We went for a medium size walk. it was nice. I had a good drink when we got home. So did mom and dad. They went outside after to pull grass and weeds from the garden. I took a nap! It was a busy day]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Play Date with Bella</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/615548</link>

				<pubdate>Thu, 20 Aug 2009 15:18:14 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/615548</guid>
		<description>This actually happened last weekend. Mom is behind in her writing again. On Saturday we went to the  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ This actually happened last weekend. Mom is behind in her writing again. On Saturday we went to the Farmer's Market. Mom stopped off at the dog groomers to bring them some brochures and business cards for her dog training business. We saw Lisa (Mollie and Keira's mom) there. Mom and Lisa chatted for awhile. They moved to a shady spot because it was hot. Later we went to the pet store near our house to buy food and cookies. Mom also left her cards there too. It was really hot that day and I didn't feel like walking a lot. It was a good day to chill with the central AC!

Sunday was cooler. especially in the evening. Mom and dad had to go to Sarah's house to drop off her check for when she took care of me and the cats. She invited me to play with her dog, Bella in her back yard. We had a lot of fun. I was running and jumping around. Bella is an Australian Shepard and she tried to herd me. She really couldn't catch me. One of Sarah's cats was in the yard. She jumped up on a table in the yard. I saw her and walked over to greet her. The cat wanted to play and took off running. The chase was on! The cat went into some bushes. It was a short chase, but Bella and I had fun. We were only playing. After that I was tired. I had a fun time.

Last night after mom got home from work we got in the car and daddy drove-- no where! Daddy almost hit two racoons that darted out in front of the car. Mom and dad were glad they were OK. Daddy didn't want to hurt them. Anyway, daddy drove for awhile and then we ended up back home!? I was a bit confused. Mommy explained that she had a new dog training client and she wanted to find their house before she had to go there in the morning. Mommy wants something called a GPS. Daddy said maybe soon.

Mommy says I have to work tonight! I am going to help her train two dogs. I have to walk up and down the street with daddy while mom works with the dogs. Doesn't sound like hard work. It is a lot easier than running a race.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Mom And Dad Came Home</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/614157</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 15 Aug 2009 07:28:10 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/614157</guid>
		<description>I was happy to see them. Sarah took good care of me and the cats, but I am glad mom and dad are home ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I was happy to see them. Sarah took good care of me and the cats, but I am glad mom and dad are home. They took me for a long walk down the trail by the river. After that we all hopped in the car. I had no idea where we were going. We ended up at the Vets!!!! I wasn't too happy about that. You can imagine my relief when mom just dropped off my track injury record to be put in my medical file. Mom also left some brochures and business cards for any one needing dog training. After the Vets we drove to the car wash!!!! What the heck?? The man at the car wash gave me a dog bone. That was nice. I was a bit scared going through the car wash. It made lots of strange noises and these big flapping sheets were slapping the car. Next these huge blue roller things were hitting the car, followed by hard rain and several huge blowers. I did well, all things considering. I don't want to go back there any time soon. It is nice to back on my regular routine. Mom said that next vacation, I might get to go too. They have an event called "Greyhounds In Gettysburg" every year. We might get to go.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I Was Injured</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/612926</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 10 Aug 2009 17:45:59 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/612926</guid>
		<description>Don't worry, it was last October. I first want to update you about yesterday. Yesterday was Sunday.  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Don't worry, it was last October. I first want to update you about yesterday. Yesterday was Sunday. We didn't go on the Greyhound Adventure walk because it was too far away this time. Mom and dad had a lot to do because they were leaving for vacation the next day. They brought me to the fenced in soccer field to run. Mollie, Kiera and a new dog came too. The new dog was an Australian Shepard  named Daisy. She had just been rescued and only with her new human a week. We had fun playing. Mollie and Kiera's mom gave us water and Kiera and Daisy got into a fight. No one got hurt. They both tried to drink from the bowl at the same time. After we ran, we went for a little walk.

Mom and dad left around 10 this morning. They put suitcases in the car. Mom said they would only be gone a few days and that she would miss me. I wanted to go, but they didn't allow dogs at the motel. Sarah is staying with me, Ben and Charlie now. Mom brought her lap top on vacation. The motel has internet access- very slow!! Mom got an E-mail from her friend Christine. She runs an organization called Grey2K. They are trying to end Greyhound Racing in the United States. Mom had entered me in a photo contest for a calendar. Mom gave Christine my history. She looked me up and found out that I had been injured on the race track last October 8th. I fractured a lot of bones in my left hind foot coming around the second turn. That was why I was retired. I had to be in a splint for awhile. The track where I raced (Seabrook, NH) just closed to live racing. I am the last recorded dog to be injured at that track. I hope that all the tracks close very soon so no other dogs have to be hurt]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Pampered Pooch!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/612343</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 8 Aug 2009 15:11:22 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/612343</guid>
		<description>On Thursday, mom showed me a new kind of collar. It was called a Gentle Leader. It is like a halter  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ On Thursday, mom showed me a new kind of collar. It was called a Gentle Leader. It is like a halter that horses wear. Mom had to adjust it and readjust it so that it fit me. She had bought a large size because it went by weight. Being a greyhound, I'm built a little different from most dogs. I am tall and weigh 70 pounds, but I have a smaller head. The large was a bit too big. By the time mom finished adjusting it, there was a long strand of nylon collar hanging down my face! Mom took me for a walk. At first I didn't like the feel of the nose band. I pawed at it and tried to get it off. I am getting used to it now. Mom has an easier time walking me now. I used to pull sometime. For the most part, I walk with a loose leash, but there were times I would pull. Mom was afraid it was hurting my windpipe because I would pull so hard that I would cough.

Today was Saturday which meant our usual trip to the Farmer's Market. Mom bought bread, berries, corn and a purple pepper! We drove to the Farmer's Market in the car because mom said we didn't have much time before my appointment. I had no idea what appointment I had, but sure enough, after the food was put away, we were back in the car again. We drove for a while and ened up at Dirty Hairy's Dog Wash. I had won a free dog wash in the raffle last week. I was the only dog there when we went in. I got the royal treatment! Dad lifted me into the tub and they put a collar around my neck so I wouldn't jump out. Mom and dad wore water proof aprons and they gave me my bath. The water was nice and warm. It felt good. I was a little nervous, but I really enjoyed it! Mom got me wet and then I got a medicated treatment for my dry skin. Mom and dad scrubbed me good. It felt wonderful. Next was Green Tea shampoo, followed by Green Tea Conditioner. Then mom and dad towled me off. Daddy lifted me out of the tub and onto another table to be blow dried. A nice lady came and trimmed my nails. A little girl helped mommy brush me. Everyone was SO nice there. I liked them very much. I even felt comfortable enough to let them pet me. I smelled really good too. The little girl really liked me and gave me a pink bandana! I'm still wearing it now. After my spa treatment, daddy took us to Petco down the street. Mom bought me a new Gentle Leader. This one was size medium and it was blue. She was going to get me a matching leash but the leashes there were too expensive. Mom said that was OK because next we were going to my favorite pet store to buy food for the week. Mom said the leashes there were more reasonably priced. Also it was my cat brother, Charlie's, Birthday. He turned 4. Mom had a coupon for a free Birthday present for him. We got to my favorite pet store called Especially For Pets. I had to use the bathroom before we went in. They have a nice big field out back. Daddy saw blackberries all over the place. Mom picked a lot of them and put them in one of my bags (It was a clean one!) We went into the store and bought food, a new leash to match my new head collar and my cookie. They had a cat rescue group there. We got to see the cats. They let me look too because I like cats. Mom fell in love with a kitten. He was all purry and kept smiling at mom. Daddy had to remind her that we have a full house. He liked the kitten too, but we couldn't bring him home. We got all the way home and mom remembered the coupon for Charlie's present!! She forgot all about it! Mom felt bad. Daddy got a call from a friend of his. He invited us all over. On the way to daddy's friend's house we passed another Especially For Pets. Of course, mom had left Charlie's coupon at home!! Daddy suggested that maybe his friend, Andrew had a computer and printer and that we could print out a new coupon. We got to Andrew's house and went inside for a bit. Andrew plays piano. He played for us. Daddy played some too. I laid on the rug and enjoyed the music. Later we went for a walk. We ended up at  a fenced in soccer field AND a fenced in football field. I got to go in both and run and play! Daddy and Andrew ran around with me. It was fun. It was a bit hot outside and I was panting a lot. We went back to Andrew's house and I got some water. Andrew let mommy print a new coupon for Charlie. We left Andrew's house and drove to the new Especially For Pets store. We got Charlie his birthday mouse and I got another cookie!! We stopped off at an organic farm stand and then headed home. After a rest, mom, dad and I went for a nice evening walk. It had cooled down some and it was a nice evening. We mailed some letters and daddy went into the bank to deposit a check. Then we walked home. What a busy day!! I'm crashed out on my bed and Charlie is playing with his mouse! What a great day!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Adventure At Spy Pond</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/610827</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 2 Aug 2009 15:15:03 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/610827</guid>
		<description>Today I got to go on a Greyhound Adventure to Spy Pond in Arlington, MA. It was a smaller group than ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today I got to go on a Greyhound Adventure to Spy Pond in Arlington, MA. It was a smaller group than usual- about 16 to 20 dogs, but we had a lot of fun. I was so excited to see everyone. My friends Aiken, Johnny B, and Louise were there. We couldn't go into the pond because they had bad algea in the water. Mom said it could make us sick. We had a nice walk. We didn't find any spys though. I don't know why they call it Spy Pond? On our way home, mom and dad stopped at a pet store. I had never been to this one before. It was on our way home. Mom and dad bought me dog food, a new raw hide bone and a cookie. It was good! Daddy stopped in at a store called Debra's Natural Gourmet to get lunch for him and mom. Mommy stayed in the car with me. After that we drove for awhile and then we stopped at another store! This one was a hardware store in our town. This store had won the most dog friendly business at the Farmer's Market yesterday! I got to go inside with mom and dad. It was interesting. I saw things I had never seen before. Daddy bought a new welcome mat for in front of the house. Our old one was "Icky" (That's what mom said!). Finally we made it back home. I crashed on my bed, then I moved to the rug. Mom and dad left to go grocery shopping.I slept. After mom and dad came home and put the groceries away, they told me to get back in the car again. We ended up at my friend, Oscar's house! I got to play and run around the back yard. We had fun. I watched Oscar chase a ball. I haven't tried it yet. Daddy was trying to get me to chase it, but I wasn't too sure. It was another fun day with lots of exercise. My bed feels very good right now!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Farmer's Market</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/610620</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 1 Aug 2009 17:55:08 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/610620</guid>
		<description>We go to the Farmer's Market every weekend, but today was different! Mom was running all over the ho ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We go to the Farmer's Market every weekend, but today was different! Mom was running all over the house gathering things up and brining them to the car. I knew something was up. We all hopped into the car and daddy drove us there. We waited for a few minutes and then Mollie's mom and dad came. Daddy set up my exercise pen and mom filled my water bowl. I knew we would be there for a while. Mom set up a little table. Mom just became a certified dog trainer. She already has two doggie clients and wants to get more. She had brochures and business cards to hand out to people. Mom and dad were also helping out Mollie's mom and the MayDOG group. They are all working hard to bring a fenced in dog park to my town. Today was a big day. Another trainer, who knows mom, was holding a safety workshop for kids and dogs. MayDOG was also announcing an award to the most dog friendly business in Maynard. It was a 3 way tie! Daddy made the announcement and handed out the awards! He did a good job. Mom met a lot of people and gave away 15 brochures and some business cards. They also had a raffle basket, so mom bought 6 tickets. We were there for 3 1/2 hours. I didn't mind. My pen was in the shade under an apple tree. I also had a rooster keeping me company! He was in a cage beside me. I had my blanket and mom bought me 2 peanut butter cookies. People came over and pet me and mom and dad came over to make sure I was OK. I met other dogs and watched everything going on. After we left, mom and dad brought me home and then they went to see the new Harry Potter movie at the IMAX theatre. Mom told me dogs couldn't go. That was OK, I was tried anyway. When mom and dad got home, there was a message on our answering machine. I had won the raffle basket!!! Mom and dad grabbed a quick bite to eat and then we drove to Mollie and Kiera's house to get my prize. We also went for a long walk with Mollie, Kiera and her mom (about 3 miles). It was so much fun!! When we got back home, mom opened all my goodies. I have a new squeaky pepper, a dog bowl, a bandana, some treats, a poop bag holder that goes on my leash, and a gift certificate for a free dog wash! COOL!!! What a great day I had! I'm tired now!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Running Free And Fast</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/610264</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 31 Jul 2009 15:17:27 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/610264</guid>
		<description>Mom has been slacking on my diary! This should have been written last Sunday!! It has been a busy we ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom has been slacking on my diary! This should have been written last Sunday!! It has been a busy week so I guess I will cut her some slack. I met a woman last Sunday named Sarah. She used to work with daddy years ago. Now she is a pet sitter. Mom and dad are going to take a short vacation the second week of August. They were looking to find a boarding place for me to stay. Daddy had won 2 free nights stay at a place called Best Friends in Sudbury, MA. Mom and dad went to check out the place. Mom said there was NO WAY I was going to stay there. Considering my past, living in a small cage at the race track, mom said I would never be in cage again, no matter how big it may be. The other thing mom didn't like was that the dogs are allowed to go to the bathroom inside! I am fully house trained now. Mom doesn't want me getting the idea that it is OK to go inside. That being said, Sarah will be taking care of me while mom and dad are away. She will be sleeping here at night and will take me for walks 3 times a day. Her dog, Bella, will also be staying over. I also met her on Sunday and we got along just fine. Bella sure likes to eat though! Sarah will also take care of Ben and Charlie, water the plants and take out the trash and bring the mail in. She took notes on where everything is and then Bella and I went for a nice walk together.
Later that day, we all got in the car and daddy drove us to Rockland Ave fields. That is the fenced in soccer field I went to once before. I remembered it! We were meeting Mollie and Kiera there for a walk. We were the first ones to arrive and no one was around, so we went through the hole in the gate and into the field. daddy let me off my leash and ran as fast as I could. Mom said I sounds like a race horse! It felt SO good to stretch out and reach top speed. After my run, we went back to the road and waited for Mollie and Kiera to come. They arrived a few minutes later along with a shepard mix puppy named Zoe and a Saint Bernard (Can't remeber her name). Mollie's mom decided it was a great idea to go back to the field and let us dog's play for awhile. We had a blast! We did go for a short walk after we played for a while. I was tired when we got home. It was a great day!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>MARCnic</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/608726</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 26 Jul 2009 08:55:16 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/608726</guid>
		<description>Saturday started out like any other. Mom, dad and I made our usual journey to the Farmer's Market do ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Saturday started out like any other. Mom, dad and I made our usual journey to the Farmer's Market down the street. At this point, I had no idea what an incredible day it would be. We got home from the Farmer's Market and mom and dad started making lasagna again. this time they made 2. After the lasagna was cooked, mom started gathering up a whole bunch of stuff. We all got into the car and drove a long time. We were on the road for about an hour. I could smell the lasagna in the trunk of the car. Mom told me that we were going to the MARCnic. It is MARC's annual picnic. MARC stands for the MA Animal Rights Coalition. Mom and dad are members. They are a group that loves all animals. Daddy  parked the car and mom got me out of the car. There were already a lot of people there, and a lot of dogs! I was both nervous and excited all at the same time. We got to the house and Steve, who is one of MARC's founders made sure all the gates to the back yard were closed. They were! Mom let me off the leash. I ran to the other dogs and we sprinted all around the yard! It was SO much fun. Daddy brought my exercise pen and mom and dad set it up for me. They left it open so I could go inside if I felt stressed out and needed time to chill out. I did go in a few times, but stayed out most of the day. Some of dog friends went inside with me too! At Steve and Helen's house (Where we had the MARCnic) there is an animal sanctuary. They have goats, chickens, ducks and turtles. They also have a dog and cat. The yard was all fenced in so I could be free and off leash. It worked great except for the two times I was able to escape! The first time some people left the back gate open. It led to a huge field. I walked right out of the yard. Mom and dad were hot on my heels. They called and called me, but I was having too much fun. Mom and dad are very clever though. Daddy started to run AWAY from me. I chased him! I got caught!!! By this time, it was time to eat, so all the food came out. I spent dinner time in my pen. Mom had brought a big bone cookie for me. I ate half of it. After dinner, mom and dad put the leash on me and we walked all around that big field. It was fun. A little later a friend of mom and dad's named Maynard, organized a walk around the same field. I thought mom and dad were going on the walk, but they decided to play badminton instead. BORING! I can't hold a racquet! I decided to join the walk. I went with all the people!! Mom and dad got their badminton stuff and realized that I wasn't anywhere around. They panicked and started to look for me. A woman told my mom and dad that I had gone on the walk! Mom and dad ran all over the field looking for me. Dad went one way, mom went the other. Mom caught up with the people on the walk. They were all standing there pointing at me in the tall grass. I was fine and still with the group of people. The group told mom that they enjoyed watching me run and go nuts in the field. Mom wasn't amused! Daddy caught up to us with the leash! We went back to the yard. Mom and dad did play horse shoes and badminton for a bit, but they kept checking in on me. One of my Dogster friends, Lydia was there with me. She heads the group called "Tofu Pups". It was fun meeting her in person. She has  a lot of energy!! It started to get dark and they built a bonfire. All the humans sat around it. I stayed away from the fire and hung out with some poodle friends. One started to get fresh with me. He was fixed but he was still interested. I wasn't! I put him in his place. I was a tired, happy dog when we left. What a great day!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Doggie &quot;Ice Cream&quot; and Blackberries</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/606934</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 19 Jul 2009 17:59:20 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/606934</guid>
		<description>Mom and dad took me to the pet store closest to our house today. It was getting late and they didn't ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom and dad took me to the pet store closest to our house today. It was getting late and they didn't feel like driving to the one we usually go too. The pet store was having a big sale and was giving away Doggie "Ice Cream" It wasn't really ice cream, but it was frozen and very yummy. I got one! I also got a cookie and a new raw hide bone. I met a whippet puppy. Whippets are small versions of greyhounds. He was cute. Later mom and dad took me for a long walk around town. We found a some blackberry bushes. Mom and dad used one of my poop bags to put the berries in! Don't worry, it was a clean bag! They got quite a few. After berry picking we walked through town. They have a little park there and it is fenced in. There wasn't any "No Dogs Allowed" signs, so we went in. Mom closed the gate and I was able to go off leash. I stayed right with mom and dad though. Dad and I saw 2 cats. They ran away. After the park we walked by the river. Dad let me go in the water. I went right up over my belly! I could almost swim!!! I have never actually gone swimming before. Greyhounds aren't very good swimmers. Maybe some day I'll get a chance to try it- with mom and dad there just in case. Anyway, the water felt good and I got to cool off. I really enjoyed my walk]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Play Date With Mollie And Kiera</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/606683</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 18 Jul 2009 20:05:17 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/606683</guid>
		<description>We went to the Farmer's Market this morning. I did much better today with all the people. Mom and da ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We went to the Farmer's Market this morning. I did much better today with all the people. Mom and dad bought lots of fresh produce. We walked to the market which is right down the street from us. When mom and dad got home, mom started to work in the kitchen. Mom and dad made something called a lasagna. They said they had to go to a pot luck event. They told me that I couldn't go this time. Dogs weren't allowed. I was a bit disappointed. Mom gave me a peanut butter stuffed Kong to keep me busy while they were gone. I do love peanut butter stuffed Kongs. When they got home we went for a walk. We ended up at Mollie and Kiera's house! When we got there, Mollie was waiting in the yard with her mom. Mollie was so happy to see me that she pulled her mom to get to me. We were all tail waggie and ready to play. I got to play in their back yard for awhile. Kiera was in the yard waiting for us. I had fun. We ran and played while our moms and dads sat and talked. Humans just don't know how to have a good time like we do! After we left, mom wanted to check out a public garden that was just down the street. Wouldn't you know it, we found a trail! It was just like the small trail next to our house that was once a railroad track. We walked the whole trail and took some side roads back home. We got to see new neighborhoods. It was a nice walk. I'm tired now. It was a wonderful evening.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Leaping Through The Field</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/604859</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 12 Jul 2009 18:02:10 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/604859</guid>
		<description>Today started off as a quiet day. Daddy had to work and play at a ping pong tournament. Mom went the ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today started off as a quiet day. Daddy had to work and play at a ping pong tournament. Mom went the gym to workout and then she spent the afternoon home with me. She gave me my new rawhide bone. Daddy came home early in the evening and mom said that he was home in time to go to the MayDog walk with Mollie and Keira. The walk was at 7 pm and it was going to be at the site of the proposed dog park. I wish our town would let us have the dog park soon! It is a big 13 acre field. We got there almost at the same time as Mollie and Keira. We were all very happy to see each other. We were leaping and playing. Our leashes kept getting in the way! Soon, some other dogs and their humans came too. Mollie was the only dog there who wasn't black! There were 6 dogs and 8 humans on the walk. We walked through the field. The grass was high and I was leaping and jumping through it. There were lots of wild flowers too. I had a blast! So did all us dogs. I don't think the humans had as much fun as we did. After the field, we continued our walk along the road and around a neighborhood. It was nice. I did a nice loose leash walk for mom. A man on the walk knows Victoria Stillwell. Mom watches her show on Animal Planet all the time. She inspired mom to become a certified dog trainer!! Mom just graduated and is ready to get clients. Her web site is: www.siriusdawg.com. Anyway, this man is going to ask Victoria to come and speak for MayDog!! That would be awesome. Mom would love that!! I'm tired now. It was a good walk.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Mom Got My Goat!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/604636</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 11 Jul 2009 19:39:19 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/604636</guid>
		<description>I got all excited Friday Morning. Mom and dad were going some where! I wanted to go too! I was at th ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I got all excited Friday Morning. Mom and dad were going some where! I wanted to go too! I was at the door waiting, all happy and eager! You can imagine how happy I was when mom snapped the leash on me and lead me to the car. We usually go places in mom's car. This time we got into daddy's car. I didn't think too much about it. I was just happy to be included. You can imagine my shock when we ended up at the gas station just down the street!! What the heck?? Daddy was bringing his car there to get repair work done. The gas station was a scarry place. Cars and trucks were coming and going, strange noises and strange people. I was not happy any more! Mom sat down on a chair outside the work bay while daddy talked to the repair guy. I was shaking because I was scared. A man stopped and was talking to mom about me. I had enough! I tried to bolt! I sent mommy almost into the air!! She held on to me, but I scared her too. Daddy grabbed the leash and we left! We started to walk back home. On the way, daddy noticed that there were goats by the fence. An older man has two goats for pets. Daddy took me across the street to see them. I had never seen such a creature before. I only know they were goats because mom told me what they were. One had curved horns coming out of his head. The goats were curious about me too! The one with the horns sniffed noses with me. They smelled funny. We visited for a few minutes and came home. I was happy to be home!!

Today, we took our usual trip to the pet store. We bought dog and cat food. I got a huge bone that is supposed to freshen my breath! It was yummy. I also got a new raw hide and my usual cookie. After the pet store, daddy drove to the grocery store. Mom stayed in the car with me. It was hot outside so daddy kept the car running and we had the car air conditioner on. Daddy ran in and got stuff. Later we went for a nice walk. We tried to walk the trail but I was getting eaten by mosquitos. We turned back and came home by the road. Mom changed my collar. She is going to wash the one I was wearing. I have my "godess" collar back on. Mom tries to wash my collar about once a month. I get a lot of complements on my "godess" collar.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>4th Of July At Onset Beach</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/602813</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 5 Jul 2009 08:19:31 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/602813</guid>
		<description>Yesterday was the 4th of July. Mom says it was an important day in history, what ever that means. It ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yesterday was the 4th of July. Mom says it was an important day in history, what ever that means. It started out like any other Saturday. We went to the Farmer's Market again and got some fresh berries, vegetables and a big long loaf of bread. Mom and dad came back home and started getting ready to go to a picnic. Daddy loaded up the car and mom finished making pasta salad. We left the house around 11:30 in the morning. It was a long drive- about 1 1/2 hours.I just laid on the back seat of the car and snoozed. We got there right at 1 o'clock. There were already a lot of people there. I was a bit scared. Daddy unloaded the trunk and pulled out my brand new exercise pen. Mom and dad set it up in a shaddy place. It was nice! I had a safe place to be and I could still see every thing going on. Mom filled my water bowl and I also had some cookies and biscuts to snack on. I was just settling in when I saw Mollie and Kiera! I couldn't believe it!! My two best friends were at the picnic too (with their mom and dad of course)!! We all sat together. Mom and dad ate a lot of food!!! Everyone there was eating a lot of food. After mom and dad finished eating, we went for a walk. It was me, mom and dad, Mollie, Kiera and their mom and dad, Susan and Victoria (They are friends of mom and dad). We went to a little beach and met another dog. It was the smallest dog I had ever seen! I sniffed her to make sure she was a dog. She was! I went into the water and splashed around a bit. After the beach we went into town. There was a live band playing at one of the shops. Mom loved it. I wasn't too sure about it. We had a nice walk around the town of Onset. Mom said we were close to a place called Cape Cod. We left the town and went back to the little beach. I wanted to go into the water again and I was literally at the end of my leash!! Dad is a good dad and her took off his shoes and socks and waded out into the water with me. I went up to my belly! Kiera came into the water too, but not as far. Mollie stayed on the beach. We went back to the party and I was glad once again to have my pen. A lot of people came by to see me. They asked mom lots of questions about me. I was glad to be at the party and still feel safe. I took a nap in the grass. We left at 6 and drove back home. It was a nice day. Mom and dad left to go to see some fireworks at NARA Park. They told me that I couldn't go this time. Mom said there would be lots of people and loud noises. That didn't sound like fun to me. I stayed home with my cat brothers]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I Got A Bath!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/600925</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 28 Jun 2009 18:09:09 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/600925</guid>
		<description>Saturday started out pretty normal. I usually always go places with mom and dad on Saturday mornings ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Saturday started out pretty normal. I usually always go places with mom and dad on Saturday mornings. I thought we were just going for a walk, but we ended up at a Farmer's Market down the street. There were white tents set up and lots of people selling food. Mom and dad bought lots of berries and kale. Lots of people wanted to pet me. I am still a little shy about that. After the Farmer's Market we all hopped into the car and went to my favorite pet store. I was surprised to see lots of cars, people, dogs and more white tents! They were having a small pet fair and the pet store. Mom told me that the money raised was going to Save A Dog. I thought that was cool. We walked around and looked at the things in the tents. Then we stood in a line for a while. Next thing I knew, I was brought over to a mat and two strange people were trying to get me all wet! Mom and dad were there too, telling me it was OK. They got me wet and put shampoo on me and started to scrub me. It felt good actually. I started to relax a bit. At first I was afraid of the hose, but after a while I was OK with it all. They dried me off with something called a shammie cloth and then I shook and shook to get more dry. I was still a bit damp when we went into the pet store. Mom bought me food, a new raw hide bone and a cookie. On our way back home, mom noticed a yard sale that was just a few houses away from ours. She wanted to take a look and also meet some neighbors. There was a man there in a bunny suit!! I'm not kidding! He was a big white rabbit. Mom and dad had their orange "Got Carrots" shirt on. A woman at the yard sale took a picture of mom and dad and the rabbit man. They were supposed to E-mail the picture to mom but they haven't yet. That was one rabbit I had NO interest in chasing. I was at the end of my leash and as far away fom him as I could get!!! After we got home I was ready to take a nap on my bed. Mom and dad left for while to go to lunch and see a movie. When they got home, it was back in the car again! This time we ended up at Petco. Mom and dad bought me an exercise pen. Now I can go to the 4th of July picnic with mom and dad. We are going to a place called Onset Beach near Cape Cod. Mom said I'll be able to go walk on the beach. When we got home for Petco, mom and dad took me for a nice long walk through our town. It was a busy day.

Today was my weekly walk with Greyhound Adventures. We went to a place called Great Brook Farm in Carlisle, MA. What fun I had!! I had so much energy! I was jumping and leaping like a crazy dog! The walk was in the woods and large open fields. A lot of my friends were there and I was so happy. We started walking and all of a sudden I saw these two huge animals! It was the strangest thing! There were people sitting on their backs! Mom said they were called horses. I wanted to chase these horses. A lot of my friends wanted to chase them too. We saw lots of horses today. By the end of the walk, they didn't seem so strange any more. I had a really good time. I hope we go back. Later in the day, daddy took me for a ride in the car with him. I was a bit disappointed because we ended up at a gas station so daddy could put gas in mom's car. We came right back home again. That was OK because I got to spend time with daddy, and when we got home, daddy and mommy and I went for a nice long walk. It was a good weekend.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A Rainy Day At Horn Pond</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/598840</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 21 Jun 2009 11:36:16 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/598840</guid>
		<description>We have been having so much rain lately. I don't like wearing my rain coat as it is! Mom was afraid  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We have been having so much rain lately. I don't like wearing my rain coat as it is! Mom was afraid the walk to Horn Pond would be cancelled this morning, but I kept my paws crossed and we were able to go. I love Horn Pond. It is fun because you can go into the pond and there are lots of fun things to smell and see. About 20 other greyhounds came too! My friend Johnny B was there and so was Aiken. It rained lightly the whole walk but not hard enough to ruin things. The swan's babies had grown a lot since our last visit. They were all swimming in the pond. When we got back to the car, Jen (One of our walk leaders) handed out treats. I got a yummy bone. Mom told me we would go back on a nicer day. I had a lot of fun any way!!

Later, mom and dad took me back to the skate board park so I could run. It was still raining a little bit so we rode in the car. Daddy played with me while mom blocked the hole in the fence. I got to run and jump and play. It felt good to run!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>My Friend, Troy</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/598642</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 20 Jun 2009 17:45:01 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/598642</guid>
		<description>We went to the pet store near my home today. I thought we were just doing our usual weekly shopping, ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We went to the pet store near my home today. I thought we were just doing our usual weekly shopping, but I was wrong. When we got there we met another greyhound named Johnny B and his mom. I knew Johnny B from my Greyhound Adventures group. My mom held Johnny B's leash while his mom went back to the car to get some things. Next thing I knew, I was partcipating in a Meet and Greet. We had a table, posters and everything. The Meet and Greet was for Greyhound Friends where mom and dad volunteer. A few minutes later, my friend Troy and his mom showed up and joined us. We were there for 2 hours and met some nice people. We even got some donations. Dad had brought my blanket so I would have a soft place to lie down. I liked Johnny B's bed better and Johnny B liked my blanket, so we switched!! When Troy joined us, we just shared and laid down together. My blanket is pretty big. My parents and Troy's mom arranged a play date for me after the Meet and Greet. They have a fenced in yard. The yard wasn't very big, but Troy and I had fun playing. We got along great! I had fun. The best part is that Troy is practically my neighbor. He lives just down the street. When we got home, mom and dad were hungry so they went out to get food. After they ate, they got me back in the car. This time we went to the usual pet store. We bought food and I got a new raw hide bone! My brother, Ben's birthday was last Sunday and the pet store had sent a coupon for a free birthday gift. Ben got a new mouse! I also got the best cookie ever!!! What a yummy cookie!! I kind of made a mess of mommy's car but she didn't care. When we got home, daddy brought the food into the house and mom stayed outside with me. Daddy joined us and we went for a nice walk. Mom and dad had noticed a fenced in area near the school. No one was ever there. Come to find out, it was a skate board park. It was empty, so we went inside. I got to run around with daddy. Daddy isn't very fast, but I still had fun. After our jog, we finished up our walk. When we got home, I got my new raw hide bone. It was a nice day!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Spy Pond</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/596638</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 14 Jun 2009 17:59:18 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/596638</guid>
		<description>My Greyhound Adventure's walk wasn't cancelled after all!! It was still raining a bit but mom and da ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ My Greyhound Adventure's walk wasn't cancelled after all!! It was still raining a bit but mom and dad took me to the walk any way. We all had our rain coats on. By the time we arrived, it had pretty much stopped raining. Our walk was at Spy Pond in Arlington, MA. It was a nice walk on a paved bike path. Only about 15 other dogs were there with their people. It was a small group because of the weather. After the walk we went to a very small dog fair in Sudbury, MA. It was held at Best Friends. They do dog boarding and training. I had won 2 free nights of boarding there, so mom and dad wanted to check it out. We took a tour of the facility. Everyone was very nice, but mom didn't want me to go there. When mom and dad go on vacation, they might have a dog sitter come to take care of me and the cats. Daddy knows a woman who does this now that she is retired. I am retired too, so we should get along great! After the dog fair, daddy drove us to the food store. He went inside and mom stayed in the car with me. After the food store we went to a place that sold strawberries. They had just been picked and were very sweet. Mom and dad bought two quarts of them. Finally we got to go back home. I was tired by this time. Mom and dad had lunch and then went out to work in the garden again. I watched them from the window. After a short rest, mom and dad told me I was going for another walk! We got into the car and went to a local ice cream stand. we met 2 other dogs and their people there. Mollie was supposed to come with her mom but they never came. Daddy called Mollie's mom on his cell phone and she had forgotten about the walk! Daddy had to lead us instead. We had a nice time. I don't know how, but we ended up on the trail that is across the street from my house! We walked 45 minutes and finished back at the ice cream stand. It was a busy day! I think I'll take a nap now!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Party Animal!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/596429</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 14 Jun 2009 05:03:22 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/596429</guid>
		<description>Yesterday we went to the pet store closest to our house. Mom and dad wanted to do some work in the g ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yesterday we went to the pet store closest to our house. Mom and dad wanted to do some work in the garden and didn't have much time. They were going to a party at my friend Mollie and Kiera's house. Their mom was going to be teaching everyone to make seitan. When we got there we saw a lady sitting at a table talking to another lady. Dad got curious and saw that she was a pet psychic giving free mini readings. He told mom and mom thought "Hey, this should be fun." Mom went to get my dog food and cookie and waited for the psychic lady to finish with the woman she was giving the reading too. While we were waiting, guess who came into the store? It was Mollie and her mom, Lisa!! I was SO happy to see my friend. Lisa asked my mom if she wanted to bring me to the party too!!! I was invited to my own doggie party with Mollie and Kiera!!! A few minutes later, another greyhound came into the store. It was Troy!! My mom knew Troy's mom. We are going to have a play date sometime soon. Next it was time for my reading. She picked up that I was sensitive and shy and that I hadn't been with mom and dad all that long. She also said to be careful about I ate. Well, a few days earlier I had found a pen on the floor. While mom and dad were upstairs, I chewed up the pen! I even swallowed some of it. Mom said that wasn't good for me. Next the psychic talked about my cat brother Charlie. Charlie has been with our family longer than I have. Mom told me that when Charlie was adopted, mom, dad and Ben lived in a rented house in another town. Charlie never liked that house and didn't feel comfortable there. The psychic lady said it was because of bad energy and something to do with a canary that lived in that house. Well the couple who rented the house before mom and dad did have a parakeet, and they were going through a divorce. Mom and dad found that pretty interesting! We left the pet store, mom and dad did their gardening and then it was time for the PARTY!!! I got to run around in Mollie and Kiera's yard and hang out with them while the humans made this seitan stuff (Mom said it is also called wheat gluten). Mollie's mom left the basement door open so we dogs could come in and out as we pleased. We had water and everything. It was fun!! Later in the evening, we dogs joined the humans upstairs. We all had a fun time. Kiera had a new hedgehog toy and she growled if I got too close. I didn't want her toy. I have my own hedgehog at home. We left the party and went back home for the evening. When we got home, my tummy started feeling bad. I ended up throwing up. Guess what came out? Part of the plastic pen I had chewed up and a bunch of grass. I ate the grass to  help get rid of the plastic pen. I don't think I should eat pens anymore. I didn't feel much like eating supper, but I was fine this morning. Mom gave me duck stew. I ate it all- even my peas!! I was supposed to go on a walk this morning with Greyhound Adventures, but it is raining outside. Mom thinks it will be cancelled. She said their is something else we can do later. I'll close for know and write more later.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Dog Park!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/596089</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 12 Jun 2009 17:41:33 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/596089</guid>
		<description>Daddy took a vacation day and mommy always has Friday's off. They wanted to do something special for ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Daddy took a vacation day and mommy always has Friday's off. They wanted to do something special for me!!! Since we don't have a dog park in my town yet and we don't have a fenced in yard where I can run free, mom and dad wanted to bring me some where that I could go for a run. The nearest fenced in, off leash dog park was in Salem, MA. It is almost an hour away. We all got into the car this afternoon and daddy drove us there. I got all excited when I saw the other dogs. It was a very nice park. I met a lot of really nice dogs and mom and dad met some really nice humans. I had a blast running around. No one could keep up with me! They tried hard though!! There were water bowls there and chairs for all the moms and dads. We were there about an hour. It was so funny-- daddy was sitting in a chair and a pug named Diesel jumped right onto daddy's lap! Daddy laughed and didn't mind at all. Diesel did this twice! Diesel's owner was laughing too. It started to sprinkle and then rain so it was time to leave. Daddy drove us to another park called the Willows. I had to stay on leash. It is a nice park too. They have arcades and food places. We walked out to a pier overlooking the ocean.There were people there trying to catch fish. We also got to go on a small beach. Mommy collected a couple of shells. I got my paws wet in the salt water. We saw a couple of other greyhounds so we went to meet them. They were from our Greyhound Adventures group! We visited with them for a few minutes. After the Willows, daddy drove us to another parking lot. We got out and walked a short distance to a restaurant. It was called Rawbert's Organic Garden. It is one of mommy and daddy's favorite places to eat. They had two outside tables on the sidewalk. The table we sat at had a little "cubby" spot for me to go into. I could see everything but it was almost like a little crate for me. I had the building on two sides of me, then the open door on the other side, the table was in front of me. Mom and dad had supper and I watched everything going on. I got comfortable enough and laid down and rested. After mom and dad ate they took me back to the dog park again. I was too tired to really run. I socialized with the new dogs there but I didn't have any more energy to run. I am a sprinter, not a marathoner. I am very fast but I can only run for a short time. I get tired quickly. We stayed about 20 minutes the second time and then we took a walk through the rest of the park. The fenced off part for us dogs is only a part of the park. There were pretty walk ways with benches too.  It was a fun day!! I'm going to sleep in my bed now!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I'm Starting To Play!!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/595158</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 9 Jun 2009 08:02:12 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/595158</guid>
		<description>Mom and dad saw me last night. I was playing with my stuffed bone with the leopard print (it looks l ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom and dad saw me last night. I was playing with my stuffed bone with the leopard print (it looks like my cat brother, Ben!) I was in a play bow with my tail wagging and I was tossing it and shaking it. Mom and dad were so happy. They told me what a good girl I am. I never had toys to play with at the race track so I didn't know how to play with them. I have been watching my cat brother's Ben and Charlie. They play all the time. Mom said that Charlie didn't know how to play when he first got adopted either. He learned by watching Ben.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Whisker Walk</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/594632</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 7 Jun 2009 12:16:41 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/594632</guid>
		<description>Saturday was a nice day. Mom and dad took me to the pet store to get some supplies and food. I got m ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Saturday was a nice day. Mom and dad took me to the pet store to get some supplies and food. I got my cookie which I always look forward to. When we got home we went for a nice walk to a different neighborhood. Mom has a hurt knee so she had to walk slowly. She did OK. When we got home, mom got on the computer. All of us are micro chipped and she gets E-mail alerts from the company about lost pets in the area. Most of the time the lost pets are no where near us, but this time there was one in our town. Mom started to read it and called to daddy. It was my friend Rudy who was lost!! He is the beagle who went on the walk with me, Mollie and Kiera. Mom didn't know his mom's phone number so weren't positive it was him, but mom said how many beagles named Rudy can there be in Maynard. (we live in a small town) We all jumped in the car and searched for about an hour until it got dark. When we got home, mom called Mollie and Kiera's mom and found out Rudy's mom's last name. From there she went to the white pages and found the phone number! (mom can be very clever when she wants to be) Mom called and found out that Rudy was safe and sound and back home. Some workers had gone to their house to get rid of some ants. They didn't close the gate right and Rudy escaped. He came back home after having an adventure. Mom was happy that Rudy was OK. We had a nice walk while looking for him too!!

Today was a big day. We went to a huge (and I mean HUGE) pet fair called The Whisker Walk. It was held at the Lancaster Fair Grounds which isn't too far from our house. I was a bit overwhlemed by all the dogs and people. We went to all of the booths and got a lot of free samples. We did the walk at noon to help raise money for MayDog (to get a fenced in, off leash dog park in my town) Other people walked for other pet related charities. I got to go in 2 swimming pools to cool off. That was fun! I also tried out an agility course. I didn't do too bad!! I did very well on the weave poles and jumping the hurdles. The tunnel was too small for me. We stayed for 2 1/2 hours! I'm tired now!! One of my samples was a sting ray tail! Mom thinks it stinks! I think it is kind of strange but I like it. Kind of tastey. It is supposed to be good for my teeth. Going for a walk in a few minutes. I'll write more later.

Back from my walk. What a surprise! I thought I was just going for a walk around the block or around the neighborhood. You can imagine my surprise when daddy told me to get in the car. We ended up at NARA park where the dog day jubille was a couple of weeks ago. There wasn't a doggie event going on, but we had a nice walk through the park. We saw people swimming, walking, jogging and even playing baseball and soccer. We did see some other dogs too and a family of geese with their babies. The older geese hissed at me when I walked by. They were protecting their babies. I wouldn't hurt them. It was a beautiful evening. What a nice surprise.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I Caused A Traffic Jam!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/594075</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 5 Jun 2009 08:10:02 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/594075</guid>
		<description>Yes, it is true!! Every Tuesday and Wednesday mom an dad come home late. On those nights I have a do ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Yes, it is true!! Every Tuesday and Wednesday mom an dad come home late. On those nights I have a dog walked named Debbie come over to take me out for a walk and so I can do my duty. Tuesday night went fine but Wednedsday was a different story! Debbie often takes me across a busy road for my walk. This is the road that had that great trail I wrote about in my other diary entries. I love going there and I have been there many times. Well, for some reason I got really scared! I stopped right in the middle of the road and became a statue! I stopped all the cars!! Poor Debbie didn't know what to do! She finally got me out of the road and from there, all I wanted to do was go back in the house. She waited for 15 minutes and tried to take me out again. I wanted no part of it! I had to wait until mom and dad came home to do my duty! Last night, Daddy took me back across the road on purpose. He didn't want me to be scared to go across. I did fine! I don't know why I got scared. We Greyhounds are funny like that sometimes.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Paws In The Park</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/592812</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 31 May 2009 17:31:28 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/592812</guid>
		<description>Saturday was a quiet day for me but very nice. Mom and dad went to Earthfest in Boston. They thought ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Saturday was a quiet day for me but very nice. Mom and dad went to Earthfest in Boston. They thought about taking me but they knew that I would be scared by all the people there. I don't like to be crowded. They didn't stay too long so they could spend more time with me. When they got home, we went to another plant place. This time I got to go in. Daddy asked them if dogs were allowed and they said "yes" We bought some tomato plants and an orange flowering plant that daddy really liked. Later in the day, mom and dad took me for a long walk in our town. We walked for an hour or so. I got to see some new places. In the evening, daddy took my old collar off and put on my new one. That was the collar mom won for me at Greyhound Friends open house in the raffle. Mom is washing my old one.

We left early this morning. Mom was excited. She told me that we were going to big dog fair called Paws In The Park. This fair was to benefit Save A Dog in Sudbury, MA. They are a no kill shelter that takes dogs that can't find homes and helps them. Both mom and dad got sponors for the walk. Together they collected over $600! I was very proud of them. Before the actual walk started we went and visited all the booths. Mom bought me a bright bandana to wear. It is very nice and goes well with my new collar. I was having fun until we got to one booth. I knew something wasn't quite right. Sure enough, I got micro-chipped!! Mom said it was in case I ever got lost. It only hurt for a minute. I got lots of free dog bones and treats. That was good. We saw all the booths and then it was time for the walk. We went on a nice path in the woods. I was near the front of the pack. The walk was supposed to be a mile, but it was shorter. I still enjoyed it. After the walk, we had to work at the MayDog booth. We are trying to get a fenced in, off leash dog park in our town. Mom set up my blanket, water and some snacks. Lots of people came. Daddy took little walks with me so I wouldn't get bored. Daddy and I entered a couple of contests. I won longest tail this time!!! I won by 3 inches!! What a great prize I got! It was a new stuffy squeaky bear. It's yellow. Daddy also took me to get my nails clipped. They were getting long. Mom wandered around for a while too to take a break. She came back with a box of Boston Baked Bonz. I got peanut butter cookies! Yummy!!! She also bought me a squeaky stuffed bone. Mom talked with a lady she knew who was trying to get a petition signed to stop dogs from getting devocalized!! I shudder to think about it. Vets will cut out dogs and cats vocal cords so we can't bark or meow!! The bill, if passed into law, will make this practice illegal. I hope it passes!! Mom took a signature sheet back to our booth and a lot of people signed it.
It was a long, but fun day. I got to see all kinds of dogs. There were other Greyhounds there too, and huge Great Danes. When we got back home, mom and dad went to buy food at the store. When they got back, they took me for a nice long walk. We went by the river. I'm tired now!!! I'll sleep good tonight. I think mom and dad will too!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Minute Man Trail in Concord, MA</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/591208</link>

				<pubdate>Mon, 25 May 2009 17:54:09 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/591208</guid>
		<description>Today was Memorial Day, so mom and dad thought we should walk more of the Minute Man Trail. I was ru ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today was Memorial Day, so mom and dad thought we should walk more of the Minute Man Trail. I was running low on dog food so we first went to the pet store. We got dog and cat food, a new rawhide bone, some doggie treats and, of course, my cookie. It was shaped like a bone and had carob on it. Carob is like chocolate but it isn't bad for dogs like chocolate is. It was yummy. I also got some duck chews. They are good too. After the pet store we went to a couple of plant nurseries. Mom wanted a second rhododendron for the front of the house. Daddy went in to get it while mom stayed in the car with me. It was hot so she kept the AC going. Daddy also got a second lilac bush. Mom was happy because this one was the dark purple kind that mom loves. After we brought the food and plants home, we headed off for the Minute Man Trail. There was a nice breeze. Lots of people were there. Some were walking, some jogging and lots of them were on bicycles.  By the end of the walk, I wasn't scared of bicycles any more. I just look at them now, but keep walking at a normal pace. Before I would get freaked out. We walked a long time! Mom guesses that we went about 4 1/2 miles. I was tired.  During the walk I made a poo- poo. Mom had to carry the bag. She says that she always left "holding the bag". I'm not sure what that means exactly, but she was holding it for the whole walk. Daddy used to work near the trail so he thought there might be a garbage can near where he worked. We walked to the building, but couldn't find a trash can. They had steps going up and down the hill in the parking lot, so mom and dad had me practice climbing the stairs. I did just fine. I am still scared to climb the stair in our house. They are too steep. I did these stairs OK. Mom and dad took me up and down several times so that I will feel more comfortable. I was tired by the time we got back to the car. Mom had brought my water bowl and I had a couple of good long drinks. I'm going to sleep good tonight]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Memorial Day Weekend</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/590863</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 24 May 2009 16:17:45 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/590863</guid>
		<description>Mom and dad did yard work yesterday. I watched them from the window. Mom had promised me a nice walk ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom and dad did yard work yesterday. I watched them from the window. Mom had promised me a nice walk and I was eager to go. Finally they finished pulling weeds and raking leaves. We drove for awhile and then daddy stopped to get food at a cafe. He and mom had sandwiches and cookies. Mom gave me some of the cookies too. They were good. We drove a little further and ended up at the Minute Man Park. It was the same trail I did with Greyhound Adventures, but we started at the other end of the trail. This part of the trail was more wooded. It had wooden cat walk bridges too. We saw a snake sunning itself on a rock. There were other dogs, people and bicycles. I did very well. It wasn't too crowded. We came upon a man and his kids who were riding bikes. The man's little girl had fallen and she was crying. Daddy let the man use his cell phone so he could call his wife for help. After that we turned around and headed back to the car. It was a nice walk

Today, Mollie and Kiera came over with their mom and dad. We walked down the long trail across the street from us. We met another lady there who had a beagle named Rudy. We went on a very long walk. It was fun but the mosquitos wouldn't leave me alone. Mom and dad tried to brush them off of me. We walked about 3 miles. I was tired. After the walk, Mollie, Kiera and their mom and dad came in the house and had supper with us. It was fun having Mollie and Kiera over. We all drank water and laid on the floor. Mom and dad had fun with Mollie and Kiera's mom and dad too. They sat at the table, ate and made the strange sounds they always make. Mom calls it "talking". I was sad when Mollie and Kiera had to leave. I walked over to the door to say "good bye". Mom said I will see them again soon.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Return To Horn Pond</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/590403</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 22 May 2009 15:19:30 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/590403</guid>
		<description>Both Daddy and Mommy were off work today for the long holiday weekend. They wanted to do something s ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Both Daddy and Mommy were off work today for the long holiday weekend. They wanted to do something special for me, so they took me back to Horn Pond in Woburn. Horn Pond was the very first walk I did with Greyhound Adventures. It was Winter time then and it was actually snowing a bit. It was very different today. It was sunny and about 92 degrees! The walk was pleasant because there was lots of shade and a nice breeze. I got to dip my paws in the lake a few times and I also took a few drinks of water to stay hydrated. We met some very nice people and dogs. I did much better with the bicycles, joggers and baby carriages. There was a man in an electric wheel chair. I had never seen that before. I was a little scared and walked as far away as I could around him. We saw two swans with their babies and also a mommy duck and a whole bunch of baby ducks. It was a beautiful day. After Horn Pond, we went to a nearby Petco. Mom and dad bought the new litter box. Ben and Charlie aren't sure what to make of it yet. Ben went right inside. Well, time to relax now. I have a big rawhide bone with my name on it.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>A Day With Daddy</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/590292</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 22 May 2009 07:46:10 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/590292</guid>
		<description>Daddy had the day off yesterday so he took me with him to visit grammy in New Hampshire. Mom had to  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Daddy had the day off yesterday so he took me with him to visit grammy in New Hampshire. Mom had to work so she couldn't go. It was just me and daddy. When we got to grammy's house I went into my shy mode. I didn't want to inside but eventually I did. Later daddy took me to grammy's neighbor's house where they have a big fenced in back yard. I got to meet the neighbor's dog named Casey. I got a little over excited! When daddy let me off the leash, I started to run. I was so happy about running that I wasn't paying attention. I ran right into the fence!!! It took the wind out of me for a second or two. Daddy was afraid that I hurt myself, but I shook it off and took off running again. I was fine, it was just a bit embarassing. After my run, I was tired. We went back inside so I could rest. I watched daddy move grammy's TV's around. When daddy left to get lunch, I waited for him by the door. I was over being shy at this point and let grammy pet me. We got stuck in traffic on the way back home. The air conditioning in daddy's car doesn't work too well any more and it got kind of hot. When we got home, I went to my bed and feel asleep.

I have been a bad girl lately. I have discovered a tastey treat that mom and dad don't approve of! They kept noticing that my muzzle had white stuff on it. They weren't sure where it was coming from, but they knew I was getting into something. Daddy caught me! I was snacking in the cat litter box! I don't understand what mom and dad are so upset about! It is actually quite tastey. Today mom and dad are buying Ben and Charlie a new litter box. This one will have a cover and is shaped like an igloo. It has stairs that twist into the box. Looks like I won't be getting any more kitty tootsie roll snacks!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Dog Day Jubilee!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/589019</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 17 May 2009 17:13:56 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/589019</guid>
		<description>I had another fun day today! Mom and dad took me to the pet store to go shopping this morning. We bo ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I had another fun day today! Mom and dad took me to the pet store to go shopping this morning. We bought dog and cat food and some oil for my skin and coat. Mom also bought me a large rawhide bone and a cookie. Later, it was back in the car. We went to a place called NARA Park in Acton, Ma. It is only about a 20 minute drive from our house. We got there early so we took a walk around the park. It was very nice. As we made our way around the park, we saw the tents for the Dog Day Jubilee. It was a small event, but it was still a lot of fun. I met a lot of nice dogs and people. Unlike yesterday, I was the only greyhound there. I met a nice male Great Dane! He was a lot bigger than me!! We saw all the booths and I got a lot of free sample treats. Yummy!!! They had a live band play music. I really wanted to run and play with the other dogs but I couldn't because the park isn't fenced in. When we got back to the car, daddy called Oscar's mom to see if I could come over to run with Oscar. She said "Yes", so we went! I ran hard and fast. It felt so good to stretch and play. I had a lot of fun. Oscar tried to teach me how to play fetch. We both collapsed in the grass!! What a great time we had. I'm back home now, lying on my bed, chewing my big rawhide bone. What a fun weekend!!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Greyhound Friends Open House</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/588702</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 16 May 2009 14:54:41 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/588702</guid>
		<description>Today was Greyhound Friends Open House. It is the shelter that mom and dad volunteer at. They go onc ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Today was Greyhound Friends Open House. It is the shelter that mom and dad volunteer at. They go once a week to walk dogs and mom also does a little training. We got there early to help set everything up. We worked at the silent auction/raffle table. Mom likes things like that. They have a huge fenced in field out back. Before the open house started, mom and dad brought me there so I could run. I had a lot of fun. Mom and I explored the field together. There were some neat trails. Mom and dad practiced calling me to them. Just in case I was to ever get loose, mom wants to make sure I would come back when they called me. I did! I saw lots of people and met lots of new greyhounds. Mom set up a blanket for me on the grass and filled my water and food bowl. My friend, Louise, from greyhound adventures was there! I said "hi" to her. I was in 2 contests and won 2 ribbons. The first contest was for youngest greyhound. I came in second. I am 2 1/2 and the winner was 2. The second contest was for the longest tail. I was in a 3 way tie for 5th place. My tail was 21 inches long. The winner had a 24 inch tail. It was fun. I also won 2 milk bone biscuits. They were yummmy!  Daddy took me for several walks and we visited all the tables. Mom won 3 things in the raffle! She won a greyhound candle holder, a greyhound for dummies book (she's not a dummy though) and a new collar for me. I usually wear my fancy "goddess" collar that has a purple leash. I also have a black leash, so this new collar will match that one. You know us girls, we like to be fashionable. Always good to have another collar.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Pet First Aid Class</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/588477</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 15 May 2009 15:07:32 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/588477</guid>
		<description>On Wednesday, mom and I went to a pet first aid class together. Mom wanted to know what to do if Ben ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ On Wednesday, mom and I went to a pet first aid class together. Mom wanted to know what to do if Ben, Charlie or I got injured. She is most worried about my cat brother, Ben, who gets in to all kinds of trouble. We were the first ones to arrive so mom had her choice of seats. Mom put the loop of my leash around her chair leg so I could walk around a bit. I did get tangled up in my leash a few times, but mom came to the rescue. Other dogs came too, so that was nice. I got to meet them. Mom found my pulse and checked my gums. A few other ladies checked my pulse too. It was a bit embarassing as they were checking my femoral pulse. It is located on my inner thigh. Mom said it was nice and strong. I almost had to be a demo dog for bandaging, but a little poodle was eager to volunteer so they used her instead. That was fine by me. Mom and I had a nice time together. I got to meet some nice new people too. Mom says the more nice people I meet and the more positive experiences I have, the more comfortable I will be in all situations. I am making great progress. I am a lot less shy around people. I've always been great around other dogs!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Last weekend</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/587786</link>

				<pubdate>Wed, 13 May 2009 08:31:08 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/587786</guid>
		<description>Mom has been a slacking off on writing my diary entries. Humans!! 
I was a little thrown off when M ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom has been a slacking off on writing my diary entries. Humans!! 
I was a little thrown off when Mom and dad told me to get in the car on Wenesday(May 6th)! I was all excited and expecting to go somewhere fun. I ended up at the Vets!!! Not exactly what I call fun!! Mom said it was for my yearly check up. The worse part was that I was due for shots! I got 3 of them. I am also on hook worm medicine. I had a bad case when I came off the rack track. The first treatment got most of them but there were still some left in my digestive tract. The doctor gave me another round of medicine to get rid of the last ones. Mom and dad also got me a lyme disease vaccine. There are a lot of ticks this year. Even though I am on Frontline, mom and dad don't want to take any chances.

Saturday we all went to a Pet Fair in Waltham, MA. It was in a big building next to a vet hospital. It was a very small fair and not many people came. Mom, dad and I worked at one of the booths. We are trying to get a fenced in dog park built in our town. Mom brought me a blanket to lie down on and I had food and water too. We met some nice people. 

Sunday, I ended up at a plant sale of all things! I was the only dog there! What were mom and dad thinking? I had to ride home with mom in the back seat with me. The front seat had a big lilac bush in it!!! I watched mom and dad plant it from the window.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Lots Of Walks</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/584944</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 3 May 2009 16:26:26 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/584944</guid>
		<description>Mom and dad got me this great new food! It is bison meat! Mom says they are also called buffalos. It ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom and dad got me this great new food! It is bison meat! Mom says they are also called buffalos. It is so yummy. Mommy jokes and says that she doesn't even need to wash my dish when I am done. I lick every last bit.

On Saturday I had a nice long walk with my friend, Mollie. Some other dogs were supposed to join us, but no one showed up! We waited for them for awhile and then we just went for our walk. It was a beautiful day. After the walk, I played at Mollie and Kiera's house for a bit.

On Sunday I went for another walk with all my friends at Greyhound Adventures. This time we went to the Minute Man Trail in Lincoln, MA. This walk is close to our house. It was a lot of fun.

A greyhound named Baily got lost on Thursday. He got loose from his mom's car. I don't know him because he isn't part of our group. He went missing close to our house so mom and dad tried to find him. He is 12 years old and everyone was very worried about him. Mom, Dad and I were going to do a search tonight but happily we didn't have to! Baily was found and is back with his mom. He went to the vet tonight. This is why I can't run around without a leash. I have to be in a fenced in yard to run free. I am a sight hound so I can get lost at chasing something. I could easily get lost too! I don't want that to happen. I'm glad Baily is OK]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Greyhound Wellness Day</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/582912</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 26 Apr 2009 16:10:51 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/582912</guid>
		<description>We left the house a little after 10 this morning. Daddy drove us to the Cambridge Armory.  My group, ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ We left the house a little after 10 this morning. Daddy drove us to the Cambridge Armory.  My group, Greyhound Adventures, was having a wellness fair. I didn't want to go in at first, but I followed a couple of other dogs. They had all these different events and food there. A lot of greyhounds and their people were there. I got a goody bag with a ball and treats. Mom set up a blanket for me in case I wanted to rest. A short time after we arrived, daddy had to leave for skating. I was a bit upset that he left me and mom there. Mom tried to get me a doggie massage, but I was too nervous. It was kind of crowded and the music was loud. Mom got some food and sat at the table. She talked with some other humans and I socialized a bit with some of the other dogs. They had a raffle, but we didn't win anything. Mom was hoping to win a greyhound painting or a statue. When daddy came back to get us, we tried to get me a massage again. I did better the second time and got one. Mom says I still need more socialization work. I was happy to get back into the car. It was another hot day. I did drink some water at the fair, but not enough. When we got home I drank some water and crashed on my bed. Mom left to help my friend, Mollie. She has a barking problem when she meets other dogs. Daddy had to go to the groomers to get his hair cut. Daddy got home first and took me for a walk. We saw a car coming up the street and it was mom, Mollie and Mollie's mom, Lisa. We went for a walk togther, I realy enjoyed that!! Mollie doesn't bark at me. She is my best friend. We went for a nice walk together. Mom and Mollie's mom was hoping to meet some dogs so they could help Mollie with her barking. We didn't see any! It was a nice day all in all.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Summer Weather</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/582647</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 25 Apr 2009 17:09:16 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/582647</guid>
		<description>I got to see an old friend on Friday. Mom had taken me out for my evening walk. I looked down the st ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I got to see an old friend on Friday. Mom had taken me out for my evening walk. I looked down the street and there was my friend, Vito the pit bull! He saw me too and we both got very excited. It was hard to play because we were both on leashes. Vito's dad has a new job and his schedule changed. That is why I haven't seen him in awhile. He looked good. We got to play a little. Our neighbor was out in her yard and she enjoyed how excited Vito and I were to see each other.

Today was HOT!!! It got up to 90 degrees! It is still April! Mom and dad took me for a nice walk along the river. All the plants were blooming and lots of great smells. I didn't get to go to the pet store today because mom and dad stopped in after mom's eye exam. It was on their way home. They said that they had a special treat planned for me to make up for it. Once it got a little cooler, we got into the car and daddy drove me to my friend Oscar's house. We played for about an hour. I got some running in. Oscar's mom had to keep filing the water bowl. We got hot playing. I really like Oscar, but he tried to get fresh with me a few times. We are both fixed and although Oscar is 10 years old, he tried to get his "groove on" with me! I put him in his place. I am a lady after all and I demanded respect. Men!!! Any way, I had a lot of fun. I am crashed out on my bed right now. Mom said I have another surprise tomorrow! I can't wait!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Play Date and New Friends</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/580617</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 19 Apr 2009 08:51:55 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/580617</guid>
		<description>Saturday was a nice warm Spring day. Mom and dad took me for a long walk down the river trail across ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Saturday was a nice warm Spring day. Mom and dad took me for a long walk down the river trail across the street. We went far. After my walk, we all jumped in the car and daddy drove us to the pet store. Mom bought food and I got my cookie. They were having an agility class in the training ring. Mom wants to enroll me in the class at some point. I also got my nails trimmed at the pet store. It was only $5 and it went to a shelter.

Today was the best! Daddy knows a lady from work who lives in our town. She has a dog named Oscar. He arranged a play date for me. They have a large fenced in yard. Oscar is 10 but he sure can run! I was still faster, but he kept up pretty good. We ran and played. I met Oscar's whole family. Two little human children live there. I was a little bit shy of all the strange humans. They were very nice though. I was glad That mom and dad were there. We even played with a tennis ball. A little while later, another dog joined us. His name was Dublin. He was smaller than me and Oscar, but he was very nice. All three of us played. It was fun! We all ran side by side. I played for an hour and a half! I am SO tired now! It is so nice to have good doggie friends. Now I have Oscar and Dublin as well as Mollie and Keira to play with!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Running like the wind!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/578703</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 12 Apr 2009 18:13:19 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/578703</guid>
		<description>Oh what fun I had today!! Mom and dad took me to this large field. Daddy said that people play socce ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Oh what fun I had today!! Mom and dad took me to this large field. Daddy said that people play soccer there. When I got out of the car, I looked behind us and there were Mollie and Keira walking down the road with their mom. I was SO happy to see my two friends. We went into the field and daddy let me off the leash!! I ran and ran and ran! The field was huge so I could really stretch out and get up to top speed. I ran like the wind! Mollie, Keira and I had a great time playing. Daddy video taped me, so you can see it on my Dogster page. My first sprint was the fastest but it didn't get on film because mom had to run back to the car to get the video camera. Mom only has two legs and she isn't very fast!!]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>Great walking trail</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/578222</link>

				<pubdate>Sat, 11 Apr 2009 07:43:59 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/578222</guid>
		<description>It is right across the street and we didn't even know it! Daddy was home with mom and me on Thursday ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It is right across the street and we didn't even know it! Daddy was home with mom and me on Thursday because he had to get his wisdom teeth out!! Ouch!! Mom was home because she wasn't feeling too good either. Both parents took me for a walk across the street. I go there sometimes to a little park area. There was a dirt road so we started to walk down it. It ended up being a nice long trail by the river. There were lots of people walking dogs and jogging. We couldn't go too far because daddy had to get to his dentist appointment, but the next day we went again and went further. Daddy thinks the trail is about 6 miles long! Maybe someday we will do the whole thing. I really like it- great smells, no cars and other dogs to meet. After our walk yesterday, I got to go to the pet store. I got my cookie and some rawhide bones. I ate my cookie in the car. Mom was happy about that because I won't ususally eat treats unless I am home and in my "place".  That is my bed. It is a sign that I am becoming more comfortable (or maybe it is just that I really LOVE those cookies!!) BOL]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>I was on TV- well at least my tail was!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/576483</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 5 Apr 2009 18:46:03 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/576483</guid>
		<description>It was another wonderful weekend. On Friday two starnge men came to our house. They were doing an en ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ It was another wonderful weekend. On Friday two starnge men came to our house. They were doing an energy evaluation to see how energy efficient our house was. They hooked up a big fan to the door and blew the air out. It made a lot of noise. They walked around for a couple of hours. I stayed on my bed. They seemed nice. Daddy took the day off so he could be home when they came. He came with mom and me to my obedience class. I did better this time. I was more relaxed and had fun playing with all the puppies. I got a cookie too! Mom said that was the last class that I have to go to. She will train me at home. I like training at home better. I am more relaxed there.

Saturday was a rainy day. I have a rain coat but I hate it. It is too small and doesn't cover my whole back. It also slides off of me. Mom and dad wanted to take me for a long walk but it was too wet. I went out to do my business and then I wanted to go right back inside.

Sunday was a bright sunny day. Mom said we were going somewhere special. Around 8:30 am, we all got into the car. We rode for a long time. We went to Boston! Daddy drove the car right through a big, long, dark tunnel. I wasn't scared though. We finally stopped in a large parking lot at Castle Island. It is on the south side of Boston. When I got out of the car, all my Greyhound friends were there. I was so happy to see them all. A man was there with a big camera. He was filming a news segment for NECN. It was about us Greyhounds and our need for forever homes. The state I live in is closing all the racing tracks. I am very happy about that. I like being in a family much more than I liked racing. As a result of the tracks closing, a lot of my brothers and sisters will need homes. That was what the news story was about. We had a nice walk around Castle Island. I got to go onto the beach again and dip my paws into the water. One of my friends laid down in it!! Not me! It was much too cold. After the walk, mom and dad took me around the Fort that was there. It is called Fort Independence. I saw too strange animals running around. I thought they might be rabbits! I got to meet them and they were actually dogs! Go figure! I was tired when I got home. I slept while mom and dad went to Greyhound Friends in Hopkington, MA. They volunteer there and walk greyhounds looking for homes. There is a small shop there, and mom and dad bought me a new rain coat and a new reflective vest for my night time walks. They fit me much better!!! Mom and dad watched the NECN news on TV. They had recorded it on the DVR. Mom and dad saw themselves but only my tail was on the news!!! Mom went to the computer and found a slightly different version of the story on the Internet. She downloaded it. Guess what?? There I was on the video!! I didn't make the TV version but I did make the Internet version. Mom and dad took me for another long walk tonight. We went on a nature trail that is close to our house. I am a happy tired doggy tonight. I wonder what other adventures await me??]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>My adventure to New Hampshire</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/574099</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 29 Mar 2009 06:29:59 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/574099</guid>
		<description>Friday was a beautiful day. It was 60 degrees. Mom and I went for a long walk around the block to st ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Friday was a beautiful day. It was 60 degrees. Mom and I went for a long walk around the block to stretch our legs and enjoy the nice weather. We were walking down the street when I startled and jumped sideways into the road! A car almost hit me, but it was able to swerve in time. Mom almost had a heart attack!! It happend so fast. I still get jumpy at times. It is a trait of my breed. Mom took me back home by the trail and after an hour rest, we headed off to my obedience class. I played with the puppies and had a lot of fun. I still won't take treats except at home. We worked on the "leave It" command and since I wouldn't take the biscut anyway, I was the best in the class!! Actually that is a command I am very good at. Mom trains me at home. Mom can put a treat on my paw and I will not touch it if mom tells me not too.

Saturday I had a great adventure!  Mom, dad and I drove an hour to New Hampshire. We went to a Petco there and had what is called a Meet and Greet with other greyhounds from the Seabrook race track . That is where I was adopted from. We also meet to tell people how wonderful we greyhounds are and to please adopt those who need forever homes. I saw some friends that I used to race with. Apple Tree was there. It was good to see her again and I hung out with her. She is almost my twin. We were there about 2 hours and I met a lot of nice people. I got lots of attention and petting. Mom bought me some bones to chew. People gave me treats, but I wouldn't take them. Mom put them in her pocket and I ate them last night when we got home.
After the Meet and Greet we went to grammy's house. It was the first time I met her. She is daddy's mother. I went into her house and even climbed a few steps. I explored her house a little and then settled down on the rug to rest. After mom and dad ate lunch, we went over to the neighbors house. She has a large fenced in back yard. I got to run off the leash. I ran and ran and got to stretch my muscles. I didn't quite get up to top speed, but I was very close. What fun I had. Daddy threw a ball for me and I chased it. I didn't bring it back yet, but that was OK. After my run we all got back into the car. Grammy came with us so mom sat with me in the back seat. We went to a park called Odiorne State Park and took a nice walk. It was near the ocean. I got to see it!! We couldn't go all the way down to the beach because it was too rocky, so after the walk, daddy drove us to another beach called Wallis Sands. I loved the way the sand felt on my feet and I got close to the water and the waves. I met some other dogs there too. The air smelled nice and salty. After the beach, mom and dad dropped grammy off at her house and we went to visit my grampy. It was the first time I had met him too. That is my mom's father. He has a fenced in yard too!! I was too tired to run a lot but I jumped and played and had fun. We spent some time in grampy's house. He has 2 cats. I was very nice to them. They weren't too sure about me though! I fell asleep in the car on the ride home. What a fun day I had!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>I climbed my first stairs today!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/572278</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 22 Mar 2009 17:50:34 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/572278</guid>
		<description>I had another great weekend. On Saturday I got to go on two nice walks with mom and dad. We went acr ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I had another great weekend. On Saturday I got to go on two nice walks with mom and dad. We went across the street and walked through a different neighborhood. There was also a wooded trail that we did. I met a nice collie mix and her owner. I also went to the pet store to buy food. Mom and dad bought me a cookie and a new squeaky toy. It looks like a hedgehog and is now a favorite of mine.
Today I went with mom and dad to daddy's skating club. Mom took me to the park again while daddy skated. Mom and I had an hour walk in the park. I did much better with the bicycles and joggers. Mom and I walked much farther than the first time. We went through a tunnel! It was a little scary at first, but I did fine. After the tunnel, mom saw a set of stairs. They were broad and flat steps and not too high. With a little encouragement, I climbed the stairs! There were about 10 steps in all. I didn't have any problem at all! On our way back, mom took me to the stairs again to see if I could walk down them. I did!! Mom was so happy!! Granted they were easy stairs, but I did it!! Mom was so proud of me! When we got home, we had some people come over. They were friends of mom and dad. They really liked me. One of them, Susan, came on my walk with mom. We went down the trail by the house. It was nice. 
Mom says she wants to keep up with my diary on Dogster to document all the progress I am making in my recovery from the race track. Mom is very angry about how the racing industry treated me. She found out that they had injected me with steroids to keep me from going into heat while I was racing. They also fed me rotting meat and made me live in a tiny cage with only newspaper for bedding. Of course when I was at the track, it was the only life I knew. Now I know there is a wide wonderful world out there. I have come so far in such a short time. Mom says I am very smart. I like to learn and explore new things. I love my new life. I am happy now that mom and dad came to Seabrook that afternoon and found me. I am a lucky dog. Mom and dad tell me they are lucky humans. I hope Ben and Charlie (my cat brothers) feel lucky too! I'm not too sure they feel that way, but we get along OK.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>My First Obedience Class</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/571719</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:26:35 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/571719</guid>
		<description>Mom said that today is the first day of Spring. It seemed a little cold to me. I still had to wear m ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom said that today is the first day of Spring. It seemed a little cold to me. I still had to wear my jacket. Mom took me outside for my walk at 5 and at 6 she told me we were going out again. She put me in my jacket and told me to hop into the car. Mom drove me to the pet store where I get my favorite cookies. This was the first time that daddy wasn't with us. Mom took me to the back of the store where they have an enclosed area. She let me go in. Mom's friend (who is also learning to be a dog trainer) was there with a puppy. Mom let me off my leash so I could get comfortable. I played with the puppy. It wasn't long before more and more puppies came. I played well with them all. I was bigger than all the others and older too. I was very gentle with all of them and had fun. After a while, we had to get our leashes on again and a class started. I was a bit nervous and scared and didn't feel comfortable taking any treats from  mom. I do very well at home. Mom is teaching me all kinds of things using a clicker. I know "leave it", "drop it", "down", "place", "focus" and "touch" commands. I also walk on a loose leash. I feel safe and comfortable at home. I didn't feel safe enough here. Mom was very understanding. I got to play with the puppies again before we left. Mom bought me a cookie. When we got home mom worked with me and the clicker. I did great! Mom said she will continue to work with me at home but I still have to go to the classes. She has to because it is part of her course requirement.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>Another Greyhound Adventure!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/570103</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 15 Mar 2009 16:37:38 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/570103</guid>
		<description>Mom and dad took me on another great walk today with all my greyhound friends from Greyhound Adventu ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Mom and dad took me on another great walk today with all my greyhound friends from Greyhound Adventures. A lot of dogs and their people showed up. Mom guesses about 40 or so dogs. This one was a long walk around Lake Quannapowitt in Wakefield, MA. I had SO much fun. I saw some old friends and made some new ones. At one point we came to a little beach that led into the lake. I got to go right into the lake! The water felt cool on my toes. I was tired when we were through but it was a fun time. After the walk daddy had to go skating. Mommy and I napped in the car while we waited for him. We went to Petco after that and I got some new treats and Pedi Paws to trim my nails. Now I am fast asleep dreaming about my fun day!! I know there will be many more adventures to come.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>More changes</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/569528</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 13 Mar 2009 17:12:51 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/569528</guid>
		<description>Things are getting better healthwise. The antibiotics that the doctor gave me are working. I'm glad  ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Things are getting better healthwise. The antibiotics that the doctor gave me are working. I'm glad about that. 
Last night mom took me for my nightly walk. I thought that was strange because usually both dad and mom take me. Daddy stayed inside the house. I knew something was up, but I wasn't sure what. When we came back in, I went over to my crate, only to discover that it was gone! My bed was there and all my toys and my blanket, but no crate. I was a bit confused at first. I even let out a few whines to show my confusion. Mom and dad gave me lots of praise and treats. I finally went to my bed. At least it was in my "spot" It didn't take me long to forget about the crate. Mom can pet me more now and she doesn't have to crawl inside to reach me. Today I am fine with it being gone. Mom says now I am a full fledged family member. Today mom took me for a nice walk in the neighborhood. We went down the wooded trail and came out on a side street. It didn't take me long to recognize where I was. It was the same walk I did with my friend, Vito, only this time we were walking it in the opposite direction. Mom told me that I did a perfect loose leash walk. She was very proud of me.]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>The good, the bad and the stinky!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/568540</link>

				<pubdate>Tue, 10 Mar 2009 12:19:08 PDT</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/568540</guid>
		<description>The weekend was nice. It was 60 degrees and Spring was in the air. Mom and dad took me on a long wal ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ The weekend was nice. It was 60 degrees and Spring was in the air. Mom and dad took me on a long walk through our town. It was a different walk from the one that we normally do. Mom and dad wanted to see how I would do on a walk with more people and distractions. I did very well. We even walked past Mollie and Keira's house. They are my two doggie friends. No one was home though. After our walk, mom and dad had to go an energy fair, but they promised me that we would go to the pet store when they got back. I did even better this time at the store and walked right in. Mom and dad were looking for a pet bed for me, but there weren't any there that we liked. I did get my cookie!!!!

Sunday was another nice day. Daddy skates at the Skating Club Of Boston. He is getting ready to skate in a show at MIT. There is a park along the Charles River and it is right next to where daddy skated. Mommy and I walked along the river while daddy skated. I saw lots of things there. I was a little scared by all the people riding bicycles. Some people were jogging and walking. Lots of people had dogs. I saw lots of ducks and geese on the river banks and in the water. Mom and I took several breaks from walking and mom sat on a bench. This gave me time to watch things. I walked well on the leash for most of the walk. I am learning fast! The first sign of trouble happened at the park. I made a poopy and the the last bit of it was very watery. After daddy skated we went to Petco which was right across the street. I walked right into the store like a pro! We found me the perfect bed! It is called an Orthopedic Napper. It is SO comfortable! Things went well until that night. Daddy took me out for a walk around 11. It was shortly after we came in that I started to feel bad. My stomach wasn't right at all. It hurt!!! daddy was getting ready for bed at 12:30 and I couldn't stand it any longer. I started to cry as loud as I could! Daddy got the message and took me out. What a relief!!! By 4 am I had to go again!! This time mommy took me out. Anyway, not to get too graphic, I felt bad the rest of the day. Daddy worked from home. He drove mommy to work because it was snowing. When daddy went to pick up mommy, I had several accidents all over the floor! The next thing I knew, we were getting into the car. Mom and dad took me to an emergency all night clinic. We got there around midnight and didn't get home until 2:30 in the morning. The doctor said I had too much "bad" bacteria in my tummy. I have to take a medicine called antibiotics. It doesn't taste good, so mom puts a little peanut butter on it. Mom is home with me today. I am starting to feel a little better now. I hope to be all better soon. At least I have my new comfortable bed to sleep on. That really helps!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>What a day!!!</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/565606</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 1 Mar 2009 11:15:04 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/565606</guid>
		<description>Actually what a weekend! Yesterday was good too, although not as exciting as today. Yesterday aftern ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Actually what a weekend! Yesterday was good too, although not as exciting as today. Yesterday afternoon, after my walk, I got to go to the pet store again. Mom and dad bought me food (and food for the cats too) and this really cool dog toy! Mom says it kind of looks like a "jack". It has squeakers on all the ends! The best part is that it is in colors that I can see-- like blues and yellows. Dogs can't see red. We see it as grey. Anyway, it is great! I also got a cookie. I am hopping right in and out of the car now. It is fun-- I never know where I am going!!

Today was the best!!! Mom signed me up for a group called Greyhound Adventures. They meet once a week and go for walks. Mom and dad took me today! We went to a place called "Horn Pond" in Woburn, MA. It was snowing some, but about 25 or 30 Greyhounds and their people showed up. It was the first time I had seen another Greyhound since I was adopted. I had so much fun. We went on an hour long hike around this cool pond! We saw ducks, geese and swans! I had never seen a swan before. I also saw people on bicycles and jogging and of course different kinds of dogs. I did very well. I walked in front of the whole group!! Mom was teasing me about how I was only now winning a race!! My best actual race was 3rd. Mom said it was a good thing that I didn't win, because if I had, I would still be at a race track. Mom said they just used me at the race track to try to make money from me. I made some new doggie friends. When we got home, I went to my crate and fell right to sleep. I was tired!! What a great day!!!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>More adventures</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/565008</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 27 Feb 2009 11:22:59 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/565008</guid>
		<description>I'm doing better at going more places and doing new things. I am still a bit nervous, but slowly I a ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ I'm doing better at going more places and doing new things. I am still a bit nervous, but slowly I am become a confident dog. Last Saturday Mom and dad took me on a long walk. It was the same loop I did with my friend Vito. On the way back, mom and dad stopped at the groomers to get information. I didn't want to go in the store, but nothing happened. Then when we got back home, mom and dad put me in the car. I did pretty good getting in. They took me to a pet store. Again I was a bit unsure of things, but I saw other dogs with their humans, so I relaxed. We walked all around the store. I got a cookie which was very tastey!

Today, mom gave me my second dose of hookworm medication. It tastes like bananas. I wish it was liver or beef flavor instead. Then mom and I walked our favorite loop. Wouldn't you know it-- I ended back at the groomers again. This time I got my nails trimmed. It wasn't so bad. When we got home, mom let me go to the trail that is by our house. It is a wooded trail and I really like the smells and sounds. The leaves feel good under my paws. Mom says when more of the snow goes away, we can walk the whole trail. That will be fun.]]></content:encoded>
	</item>
	

	<item>
		<title>More Progress</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/562826</link>

				<pubdate>Fri, 20 Feb 2009 10:34:48 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/562826</guid>
		<description>Last Sunday mom and dad took me on my first play date. I went over my doggie friends house. Their na ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ Last Sunday mom and dad took me on my first play date. I went over my doggie friends house. Their names are Mollie and Keira. We ran around the backyard for awhile. Daddy made a video of part of it and you can see it on my page. I had a lot of fun and didn't want to leave.

Things are getting better everday. I am starting to leave my old life behind and embrace my new life as part of a family. I still spend most of my time in my crate, but slowly I am gaining confidence. Mom leaves the door open all the time she is home, so I can come out as I feel comfortable.

Today, as mom and dad were taking me for my bathroom break, we met one of my new doggie friends. His name is Vito and he is a pitbull. I like him. He is younger than me, but very nice and very friendly. Mom and dad joined Vito's dad and we went for a long walk together. I followed Vito and I didn't know where I was going! I wasn't scared though because Vito knew were he was going. I just followed him. Before today, I would only walk up and down in front of my house. Now I was walking around the neighborhood! Mom and dad were so happy! Vito had to go home, so mom, dad and I came home by ourselves. I did very well! I am another step closer to being a regular dog. Now I can go on real walks with mom and dad and explore and see new things!]]></content:encoded>
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	<item>
		<title>A whole new life</title>
		<link>http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/560924</link>

				<pubdate>Sun, 15 Feb 2009 06:28:48 PST</pubdate>
		<author>Isis ~ writing at dogster.com</author>
		<category></category>		
		<guid ispermalink="true">http://www.dogster.com/dogs/954843/diary/A_new_beginning/560924</guid>
		<description>For the first 2 years of my life, I only knew the race track. My days were spent in a kennel with ma ...</description>

		<content:encoded><![CDATA[ For the first 2 years of my life, I only knew the race track. My days were spent in a kennel with many other greyhounds. The routine was always the same, and I learned that routine and was very comfortable with it. Although I was bred to run and I do love to run, I just wasn't able to win any races. My best race was 3rd place and after that I just didn't do well. The next thing I knew, I was in a rescue shelter with other greyhounds. The routine there was similar to the race track so that was fine. People would come to the shelter to see us and take us for walks. On Feb. 1st, 2009, two people came and walked me. They spent a lot of time with me and I thought they were nice. They talked a lot to the woman who ran the shelter and then they left. The very next week they came back. Then a very strange thing happened. They made me get into this strange thing they call a car. I wasn't quite sure about it. The next thing I knew, I was leaving the shelter and riding in this car "thing" with two people I hardly knew. From that moment on, my whole world changed! Needless to say I was a bit confused, uncertain and scared! Thankfully they had a very large crate waiting for me. It was very much like he ones at the race track and the shelter. It was a place I could feel secure. It is quiet where I am now. There aren't any other dogs there, although there are 2 cats. I like cats and I don't chase them or anything. One cat is cool. I like to watch him play and run around. The other cat, I don't like so much. He stares at me! I growl at him sometimes. I don't chase him or anything, but I don't like how he stares at me. My new mom and dad are giving me lots of love and attention. I like that! I never got a lot of attention at the race track. I also like watching something called TV. It is a box with people and animals inside. I see a lot of dogs inside the box. The routine is all different now, but I am slowly getting used to everything. I have met some new dogs when we go for our walks everyday. They look different from me! I had never seen a dog that wasn't a greyhound. I have a new, best friend named Molly. She's nice. We played together yesterday and today we have a playdate at her house. Mom says I'll be able to run because she has a fenced in yard. My new mom and dad gave me some toys. I have never had  toys before either. I like to carry them and bring them into my crate with me. Mom was laughing this morning because I brought some of the cat's toys into my crate. She told me that those toys weren't mine! I didn't know! She told me they are too small and if I ate them, I could get sick. Mom put the little toys where I can't reach them. It will take time, but I am getting more comfortable. One thing I do know, is that they love me.]]></content:encoded>
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