Savannah Begins...

Oh my. So much to do in this festive season!

It is hard to fit a nap in! But I know I must take time out for myself so I don't get all stressed and stuff. But between the gift shopping and wrapping and all those Holiday Events at the Pier, it does get hectic.

I think tonight I will just put my paws up and take a breather. I will watch the news with Mama. Or a movie, if she decides. And maybe we can snack on some popcorn.

First I have to find out how little Dubs did in her first day as a Cub Reporter. I wonder if she got any scoops?

That makes me think of Ice Cream. I could really use a cone about now. I wonder if they make Ice Cream in a bacon flavor? If they do, I will have to send some to Darling Zadee who is under the weather.

I'll ask Dubs to call him and see if he is better. She wants to be his girlfriend, so I am sure she will be happy to call him. She is due home any time now.

Oh, there is the door!

Oh, My! It IS Dubs and she is standing on the doorstep smacking a man with a copy of Das Kapital!

It looks like...

It IS!

Bill O'Really!

(I better go break this up!)
Savannah!

A Lovely Detour to New Mexico!

We headed South on the Flying Angel to visit our dear friend in New Mexico, Kirby.

He couldn't come with us to the North Pole, because his hooman grandma is not well. We are hoping that the Christmas Caroling we did underneath the hospital windows may have helped. Also, the ChiHooHaas tried to erect a Tower of Dogs but the Hospital Staff prevented them. It was sort of interesting looking with the strings of colored lights like chili peppers they were holding.

Of course it collapsed at a crucial moment and the Chihoohaas got QUITE loud.

I hope we did not cause too much of a disturbance.

Later we went over to Kirby's place for a delicious Southwestern Style dinner. And we gave Kirby the gifts we had brought from the North Pole which included a bicycle made entirely out of peppermint sticks.

With licorice wheels.

And Gumdrop accessories.

Have fun with that, Kirby!
Savannah!

Happy December!

I am just a carefree happy dog! I love cookies and playing and napping and lunch and running in the park and digging and swimming and all kinds of sports! I love my pal Samoa and dear little Dubs who is as sweet as a cupcake, but with fangs.

She likes to wrestle me after dinner, and I enjoy it too. I can do it lying down, which is easier on both of us, because then she can reach me to try to pin my head to the ground. Or to the tile, becuase we are usually under the kitchen table. This is a slight handicap for me, because I can't stand up all the way due to the way the table is made, so to escape I have to crouch and scuttle.

I don't mind.

I don't like it when Dubs grabs my ears, because they are a little sore still from my allergy.

Mama says maybe swimming in the ocean will help. I hope so! I get to go tomorrow and plan to swim right out into the surf.

Dubs and Samoa have to stay home because Samoa gets too excited and won't get back in the car. Mama can't handle all 3 of us at once, so this is MY trip.

I am SO happy.

I hope you are too!
Savannah!

In which I try to recreate my charming and humorous posting- that disappeared.

Say, something odd DOES seem to be going on around here. My darling Demon Flash Bandit noted that he had difficulty posting his usual deeply interesting diary entry yesterday and here I come to have a glance at mine, only to find it is NOT THERE!

Of course, Samoa is sure that this has something to do with The Conservatively Biased Media. (I hate it when he starts talking with everything capitalized in that way!) Basically, he is blaming Cheney, Palin (as usual) and also Glenn Beck and Rush Limbo. And why not?

But I will leave that issue to him to write about. I wanted to write about our continuing journeys on board the Flying Angel. As I had written in the disappearing entry - I am SO glad that the trip organizers thought to put a Gift Wrapping Station on Board. I have sent all my gifts to be wrapped. The Beavers do the wrapping and as usual are quite industrious. They can wrap a bicycle in 10 seconds flat. They pride themselves on neatness and quality of disguise. You would never be able to tell that there is a full sized Huffy under that tissue paper!

The rabbits take over at that point. They are so tasteful and good at decorating - they make charming bows and also attach lovely little novelties to make the present seem extra nice. (The Beavers tend to decorate with pine cones and sticks - those are also nice, but the rabbits are really into design!)

I am glad of the help with wrapping, because our Master Chef Chi-Chi Labomba is keeping the baking car hot with her cake efforts and I am helping her out. She is going to have her own program on Animal Planet called "Poodles have Class" in which she tries to teach a group of pound puppies the basics of style and cupcake making. She needs to get several dozen "show cakes" ready before filming and I offered to help. I am not the pro she is, but I can make a pretty good pound cake and can stir batter like nobody! I enjoy it, because she lets me lick the spoons. She is not a fussy chef.

Now we are on our way to New Mexico to visit our dear friend Kirby. I am sure he will be a great help with this whole disappearing diary/not able to post issue. He did solve the Mystery at the Grand Canyon and also helped us with the Haunted Honeymoon episode. It will be good to see him. I have a nice gift basket of Meatz for him with extra Eskimo Jerky. I think he will like it!

More tomorrow!
Savvy!

Best Time Yet!

We met up with our dear friend Riley who is a big Ice Hockey fan and he showed us all around the Ice Hockey Hall of Fame. We had brought him a great big bag of Polar Jerky from Santa's Smokehouse of Meatz as a treat for playing tour guide.

We enjoyed ourselves so much, and even when Samoa tried to show off by chewing up a hockey puck, it was fun and educational. I will never look at ice the same way again!

Next Riley joined us for a visit to Dubs little friend Zaidies house. Because Zaidie is such an adorable little guy and an ice cream fan we treated him to a tub of Santa's Polar Special Ice Cream - Christmas Berry flavor. With fudge chunks. It is delicious, and Zaidie was generous enough to dish it out for all of us to share. We spent a nice few hours in his Mama's garden, eating ice cream and making plans for a longer visit.

I think our Dubs is very sweet on Zaidie, though most recently she has declared herself to be in love with our Cousin Chopper but I guess it is still puppy love. She doesn't need to settle down yet.

We also brought Zaidie a gift basket of Meatz. I think Mrs. Clause put in some special treats for him, because Dubs showed her his picture and he is so incredibly cute! Irresistible.

Anyway - on our way south again. We may take a detour to New Mexico and visit Kirby - I have some Meatz for him too.

More tomorrow! Savannah! (dog on a train!)

Notes on our Polar Journey!

Well, we had a short interlude on our Polar Expedition - most of the Chihoohaas headed South of the Border for the holiday and some of them are headed even further south - to the South Pole where they are joining an expedition that is being organized by some Whiskey Company in an attempt to find a cache of Whiskey left behind by Sir Ernest Shackleton about a hundred years ago. You all will remember Sir Ernest, he was a Mighty Explorer who had to give up on his Polar Quest but did achieve some ridiculous feat like going all around the Southern Polar regions in a rowboat. It Was Quite Remarkable.

But of course, he was considered a failure and capped his frustration with the Famous Quote "I'd rather be a live dog than a dead lion." And who would argue with that? Also, he left that Whiskey behind and that gives modern day explorers something to look for. Good Old Sir Ernest! We remember him fondly, while sitting in front of this blazing fire, reading tales of adventure!

Ok, but back to our OWN Polar adventures! After the big banquet with Santa and my special audience with him to deliver Christmas Lists of all my Dogster Friends, we were invited to do a little post Thanksgiving Shopping in Santa's Overstock Warehouse! Of course, it was much more pleasant than typical Black Friday Shopping, because there are complimentary scones and hot chocolate and comfy chairs to rest in if you get tired or nappish. We all picked out some lovely things to bring home with us.

Afterwards we had a Turkey Banquet, and if you think there is such a thing as too much Turkey, our appetites might have surprised you! It was lovely and a good sign off to our wonderful Arctic Holiday.

Now we are heading south - with a few detours in mind. We plan to stop and see the Ice Hockey Hall of Fame (thanks, Riley!) and to visit Dear Zadie and bring him some special Ice Cream and a "Meats Gift Basket" straight from Mrs. Clause's Kitchen!

We are also going to dip down into the Southwest to see Kirby and introduce him to our newest Pack Member - Chopper the Not a Border Collie! (He belongs to Uncle Jimbo officially, but we are all very fond of him, so have made him a member of the family!)

Love from Savannah, and drop us a line if you would like a mention here!

Savvy Blue Belle! (Great BIG Labrador!)

Blizzard at the North Pole!

Before we could get well on our way on the last leg of our voyage to the Pole, a storm swept in - so fast that the Beavers had to really scramble to make camp in a hurry. Up went the Weather Conqueror Tents and we all snuggled inside - even the husky dogs! It was THAT cold. And the wind was blowing fiercely!

The Beavers do not like being snowed in, so they constructed tunnels to give them access to the surface of the snow and built a giant Igloo to give us more room. And a good thing, too! Because no sooner had the storm broken than a Rescue Team from the Pole reached us. Led by Santa Claus himself!

One glance from his merry and wise eyes and all the pups knew we would be safer than safe! We all gathered in the Jumbo Igloo to sit on Santa's lap and tell him about our dreams and wishes. We all got nice little gifts - I got a silver bell and a little glass statue that looks just like a real reindeer. I have packed them carefully away in a bundle of stocking caps to keep them safe. Dubs got a tiny windup rabbit that can sing tunes and Samoa got a whistle and a new pair of ice skates.

PLUS: Santa said we would get our REAL presents on Christmas Day!

Later we all travelled the rest of the way to the Pole on special sleds pulled by Reindeer in training! What a thrill that is.

Tonight we are having a grand banquet. I better get out my nicest dress. At the banquet, after dinner, I am going to give Santa all the Christmas lists from Pups who sent them to me! Santa is SO kind. I am sure he will grant all our wishes!

Love, Savvy. Warming up with some peppermint cocoa!

The Welcome to The Polar Regions Tea Party and Toy Exchange!

Well, we met the welcome deputation from the North Pole today! We still have some way to travel, but a number of Elves, Reindeers and Snowmen have come part of the way out to greet us.

They threw us a lovely Tea Party Reception with Peppermint Tea (or Schnapps) and lots of cake and ice cream. They have the BEST Ice Cream up here! I guess it figures that the best Ice Cream would come from the Arctic. I really love the flavor called "Christmas Berry" but some of the other ones are delicious too! I must remember to take a carton back to my little friend Zaidie. He loves Ice Cream.

We also each got a really neat toy! It is the latest model of something called the "Fetch-a-Bone" which can both toss itself and also will return to you if you don't feel like going after it. AND it tastes like CHEESE!

Our Friends Sandra Marie and Arnold are here with us now. Little Dubs appears to be giving Arnold the eye. He IS a handsome dog, and very sweet. I think she is still a little young for boyfriends, but I think I will let things run the course.

After we break camp in the morning we will be on our last stage to the Pole. I understand we are going to have a gala reception and tour of the workshops. I better go shake out some of the formal wear - it might have gotten a bit flattened while packed away on the sledges!

More details after we reach the Pole!

Love, Big Savvy!

Sandra Marie!

Today we were thrilled to see that our dear friend Sandra Marie joined us for the rest of the trip! She arrived early this morning - the Beaver Courier Service helped with their lightening quick transport. We got her outfitted in a darling candy striped snowsuit with the cutest little red beret! She looks like she is all ready for Santa right now! And we are moving on right after the tasty pancake breakfast (with bacon!) that our Master Chef Chi-Chi is fixing for us.

Today we are going to be travelling among the reindeer herds who are headed north in the hopes of getting a placement on Santa's Team for this year. Many of them are still in training and have offered to allow us to ride them as part of their exercise program. So short hops will be offered on Airborne Reindeer. That will be a real thrill!

Last night we enjoyed a concert of hiccuping puppies (hiccuping from excitement, not from Schnapps!) beneath the star filled Northern Sky! It was something to remember for a lifetime. The musical sound of their little voices rising to the sky - somehow they managed to hiccup in harmony and it was quite delightful.

We are stopping early today - to give the Polar Bears a free afternoon - and so we will be playing snowball fights and ice sledding and skating for the pups and dinner will be a Deluxe Eskimo Feast. I don't know what that will consist of, but this fresh cold air gives a pup a HOOGE appetite, so whatever it is, I am first in line!

Love, Savvy!

Candy Cane Forest!

Early on this mornings stage of the journey we entered the famous Candy Cane Forest! What a beautiful and fresh smelling scene! We stopped for an early break and enjoyed some steaming cups of peppermint tea along with a freshly baked chocolate cupcake that our master baker Chi-Chi whipped up for us in her travelling oven. Delicious!

Most of our party is well equipped for cold temperatures - of course my darling Demon is a husky as is his beautiful sister Angel. Samoa has a full coat, but needs (or claims to need) snuggling breaks with Angel about every 20 minutes.

I am a short haired dog, but we Labradors were bred for braving the North Atlantic and so I can handle it pretty well. Dubs is a warm weather dog - she has a fine and silky coat so she is wearing a Polar-Tec snowsuit and a Santa Hat. She also has darling little mittens and footies. Mostly she rides on one of the sledges, but we bigger dogs get down and run once in a while.

There is nothing as exciting as running across an expanse of sparkling snow! It reminds me of when I read "Call of the Wild" except for all the sad parts. Before us stretches the untouched Polar Plains and we feel as if we could run forever in the cold, clean air!

At Lunchtime we will be 1/4 way from the Arctic Circle to the North Pole. So we will probably arrive before the weekend! I can see the Lunch Campsite ahead of us just now! I believe we are having a tasty oatmeal and blubber stew with cornbread. This cold air will build the appetite!

More tomorrow from your Polar Correspondent!
Savannah!

North Pole, Here we come!

We are now camped on the Arctic Circle. Many of you may not know that there is actually a circle that designates this line. It is apparently drawn on with chalk and extends out of sight in either direction. How it got here is something of a mystery, but plainly parts of it have been refreshed as there were some broken bits of playground chalk found about a half mile from our campsite.

This will have to remain a mystery for now, though Samoa is already fuming about Sarah Palin and Dick Cheney and some sort of conspiracy he thinks might be the cause. More of that from him, but he is taking a nap right now, having mistaken the warm cocoa with peppermint stick for the warm cocoa laced with peppermint schnapps that the Chihoohaas smuggled along. He will be ok, a nap and a hot bowl of stew will fix him right up.

This is our first campsite using the new deluxe "Weather Conqueror" tents. They are very handy and can provide excellent shelter, no matter what sort of weather you use them in. We would have found these handy when we were on our camping trip last year to the Grand Canyon Area. Perhaps we will go back to the Southwest soon to visit our good pal, Kirby.

Here I need to give a shout out to all my good friends in Canada who have suggested we stop by for a visit on our way back south! Be delighted! So very thoughtful of you!

We will bring candy canes from the North Pole and have a lovely visit.

Tomorrow we are going to proceed further north - I understand that soon we will start to find evidence of Elves and Reindeer! This is all SO exciting! Right now I am going to go out for a viewing of the Northern Lights which are quite spectacular this evening. Remember to send me your letters to Santa, and I will hand deliver them!

Love, Big Savvy - Polar Dog!

Our Thrilling North Pole Adventure!

We are in the midst of an exciting, post Halloween, pre Christmas Adventure. We decided to go to the North Pole to see Santa Claus. We headed out early, so we will not get there in their total rush season, after Thanksgiving (plus we really got to be home at Turkey Time) because we don't want to get in Santa's way or disrupt all that Elven Toy Building.

(and if they get stressed they might chase us with hammers!)

But by going early, we are going to get in at a good time to hand deliver our Christmas Lists and also take place in some fun activities!

We left about a week ago on the Flying Angel with all of our Friends. There were several planned stops on the way: for example - Samoa wanted to see the Rock and Roll, Football AND Baseball Halls of Fame. We all enjoyed those.

And for a brief Romantic Interlude we all visited Niagara Falls. Plus a short stop over in Buffalo to try the famous wings!

Once over the Canadian Border we paid a flying visit to our little pal Zaidee and took him a gallon of Turkey Hill Ice Cream - Chocolate with Peppermint Sprinkles.

We also attended a special event held in our honor by the Royal Canadian Canine Patrol. Apparently we are considered some sort of diplomatic dignitary because of Demon's status as almost elected president. It was a LOT of fun. Those Canadians look all stiff and formal, but they know how to party! And some of them are continuing on with us now that we are headed further North.

Soon we will have to leave the Flying Angel and travel by sledge. Samoa's connections enabled him to arrange for Grizzly Bear and Polar Bear Sledge Teams to pull us. And of course, we will camp in Deluxe Weather Conqueror Tents so we don't get chilly.

I will try to describe our Day to Day activities for you pups back at home! You can pawmail me your Christmas Lists and I will pass them on to Santa for you!

Love, Big Savvy! (Warm and Happy in the Frozen North!)

Turkey Stew!

Tonight (and last night) I had Turkey Stew for dinner. It has Turkey and brown rice and spinach and celery and carrots. I love it awful much.

Me and the kids just wait for mealtime now! We are so thrilled to be trying different dishes and can't wait to see what is next. Samoa is itching less and has some stubble on his bald spot and I am scratching less!

Mama has also discovered a medicated powder that cools and stops the itching. She has a call in to the vet to get it approved, but things are looking better!

Now if it would just stop raining! Go Away Ida!

Savvy!

My New Chinese Diet!

I went to the vets yesterday for my follow up to the itching crisis I suffered a couple of weeks ago.

She has suggested that my Mama cook for me and that I follow a diet based on Chinese Naturopathy.

Basically this means that some foods are "hot" and some are "cold." Not in temperature, just in their nature, I guess.

I am supposed to eat cold foods whenever possible and that means, Fish, Leafy Greens, NO Chicken, Brown Rice and etc.

NO Chicken! And I was hoping for some Moo Goo Gai Pan!

Savvy. Eating with Chopsticks!

I have to go to the Vets tomorrow.

Only for a follow up visit to check on how I am doing after my treatment for the itchies. I am feeling a lot better, and am having fun playing with Dubs and Samoa again.

Mama is very worried that I will start scratching again, now that the meds are gone. Samoa finished his course of meds and in a short time he was scratching again, but not as bad.

He has worn a hole in his fur right in the middle of his back and Mama has started putting medicated powder on it. It helps with the itching, but makes him look like a Giant Skunk.

I guess that is better than itching, though.

We are wondering how we are supposed to get along if we are going to be plagued with this itching all the time.

Mama says we can't just keep going and going to the vets! We don't want to and she doesn't either. So there must be something that we can do, take, have applied - that will help us if we start again.

So tomorrow she will ask the vet. And hope very much that the vet answers. (We are not seeing our favorite Dr. W., but Dr. L. who is sometimes a little short.)

Will report back.
Love, Savannah!

I'm not cooking today...

I am going to take the day off and lie under the kitchen table. I like to do this. The hoomans made it a little more of a challenge for me by getting a kitchen table with a low support rail between the legs. I can't walk under it and for a while could not figure out how to snuggle down underneath like I always did.

Then I realized that if I crouched and dropped a little I could sort of scoot/roll underneath. It takes a little more effort but it really is a great place to lounge away the day.

I'll probably fall asleep here until Mama gets home. If you need me for anything, just wave some bacon under my nose.

Love, Savvy!

Todays Recipe is Pancakes!

Our little girl, Dublin Rose is one year old today. Or sort of. We don't really know her birthday, but we know it is early November, so we picked today.

She is going to have pancakes for her birthday cake. We all are. Mama and Grandma never eat a whole cake and Mama says she would rather have a big plate of pancakes, so that is dinner tonight. And we get some too.

First you gotta have a great big pan. We have several - I will use Mama's favorite which is a big shiny silver no stick fry pan she just got.

Then we need some batter which you can get by putting some milk and eggs into this box - which already has the pancakes in it. You just have to wake them up by getting them wet.

After you have done that, you need syrup. It is usually in the cabinet right over the stove. First take a big gulp right out of the bottle and then put it aside for later.

Shake the box of milk and sleeping pancakes real hard to mix it and then dump it in the pan. Turn the pan on, but not too high - you don't want to burn anything. Watch it for awhile and then turn the pancake over. Watch it a little while longer.

Put it on a plate and cover it with syrup and butter and get somebody to fix you some bacon to go with.

Eat.

Savannah!

How to Make a Record Breaking Meatball!

First, you have to make sure that your persons have enough frozen meat products in the freezer. If they have two freezers (like mine do) check them both to make sure that they aren't holding out on you.

Ground meat is the usual main ingredient for meatballs, but you don't have to limit yourself to that. Especially if your neglectful hoomans don't happen to have an adequate supply.

Suppose (as in my case) there is only one sad pound of ground meat in the freezer and it looks like it might have been there for awhile. Be creative! Think of other options.

For example, todays recipe involves several different kind of meats combined into a tasty jumbo sized (if not record breaking) meatball.

I began by taking stock of the meats available. We had 2 frozen chickens in addition to 2 lbs. of chicken breast parts. We had 2 packages of bratwurst, 1 lb. each. We have a ham shank, about 6 lbs., and a package of pork chops - 5 of them. Also, 1 lb. of mild Italian Sausage in links, a package of frozen salmon filets and 1 lb. of uncooked shrimp.

So all in all, I estimate our meatball will be about 20 lbs. Not big enough to break any records but an ample feast for me and my meatball loving dogster friends.

In order to make this assortment of meat into a ball, something sticky is needed. Perhaps a paste made of the seafood items and some Italian Bread Crumbs with eggs mixed in. Yep - that will be good and sticky. Stir up a big bowl of this and then roll your thawed out meat items in it and place them in a big (BIG) casserole dish. Put the ham on the bottom and use extra bread crumb mixture to stick the chicken and sausage to it. Cover with a thin layer of pork chops.

Then bake for a couple of hours or until you get really hungry, have your Mama pull it out of the oven and let it cool for a half hour or so and then tuck in.

Delish! Serve with potatoes or pasta.

Savannah!

Dinner Party Sans Meatballs...

As some of you will have realized by now - I was not successful in my attempt to get Mama to make a 300 lb. meatball. She was surprisingly uninterested in the fame that would accompany such an effort and also said that we only had a pound of ground beef in the fridge. Even though she puts too much bread crumbs in the meatballs, I don't think that is enough ground beef to really be successful.

I asked her why she was not keeping up with the shopping as we might need more groundbeef and she said she would buy it when it was on sale. I am really concerned about this. Does it mean we can't afford full price ground beef? What is she doing with all the money?

I am sure she makes enough money to buy ground beef, and lots of it! Could this be the result of the economic turndown?

I can't talk to Samoa about it, because he will go on a rampage and start complaining about Dick Cheney and Sarah Palin again, and that is SO stressful. And Dubs is too young, it might worry her if she thinks we are poor.

I did push my way into the freezer when Mama opened it next. (For Ice Cream - she makes sure we have plenty of that! ~ and yes, Zadee Dear, it was butter pecan!~) The freezer looked well filled. There were some pork chops, a ham and two chickens. I also saw some sausage and frozen fish. But only one small pack of hamburger.

I did hear her say she was stopping at the grocery. I hope she picks up some ground beef. About 299 lbs. of it. I have a project in mind.

Savannah!

Meatball!

I usually leave the news updates to Samoa but I just read something really remarkable.

A meatball has been constructed that is more than 220 lbs.

I don't need to tell you how inspirational I find this.

I am going to encourage Mama to build a meatball even larger. Maybe 300 lbs! We can all pitch in to help her dispose of it properly when it is finished, but I am sure she will welcome this opportunity to be famous! How can she resist the lure of huge amounts of ground meat with spices! (The article didn't say anything about cheese or tomato sauce or pasta, but I think we should include them.)

I will let all my Dogster Pals know the details on this as soon as I convince Mama to make one. And you will all be invited to a Meatball Dinner shortly afterwards!

Oh, Dog!
Savannah!

Lemonhead...

For some reason, my page suddenly lost its charming halloween theme background and since it is too late to put up another one, I have chosen this pleasant candy background of Lemonheads.

It was one of Mama's favorite candies when she was a child, which may tell you something. What kind of child likes sourballs? Mama did. Where she went to the movies they sold these cheap and so Mama could get more of them. Chocolates cost much more. Though she says she did have to have a box of nonpariels from time to time.

For some reason the people at the candy stand in the movie theaters are always trying to give Mama some kind of candy that she did not ask for. Like Jordan Almonds. This has happened more than once. One time she just figured she would try the Jordan Almonds but says she really, really doesn't like them. So don't give her those.

She also had a weak spot for licorice allsorts even though she did not like the taste of them. She loves the way they look. Good 'n Plenty candy too. But it might as well be little pebbles, because licorice is horrible. Or so she says.

I personally have not had much candy. For a labrador, I have rather austere eating habits. I like meat. Or meat. And meaty things.

Samoa is a great bread eater and little Dubs just found out that she loves the noodles that come with Chinese Soup, but I will settle for more meat, thank you. Though I will occasionally eat a French Fry.

Yours Carnivorously, Savannah!

I continue to improve.

Right now I am a little rough looking, because I have some scabby places and some hairless, raw places. But this morning I happily practiced some of my bad habits which makes my Mama happy because she knows it means I feel better.

Today she sat down and patted her lap for little Dubs to jump up. But I did instead. The chair held this time and I got a big hug. Mama has a little very soft bristled brush that she takes and runs over my poor scabby head. It feels so good and gently loosens up some of the scabs so I look better.

I am being good and letting her clean my ears and put the apple scented ointment on the bald patch on my side. She took me in the car for a ride this morning just because I looked like I wanted a ride. I love to ride in the car.

Mama says it is really bad, but sometimes she lets me lay on her lap while she drives. I used to do it when I was a little puppy and I am very good to lay still and look out the window. But I am kind of big for it now. So Mama only lets me do it on very short trips around home. She has to put the seat way back to make room for both of us, and push the gas and brakes with her tippy toes.

I can hang my head out the window and see everything. I love the rush of smells. And getting a snuggy hug while you enjoy the ride is very pleasant too!

Love, Big Savvy!

Advice from friends...

Me and Mama would like some advice from our Dogster pals. (Like everyone who ays they are asking for advice, we are actually looking for someone to confirm the opinion we already hold! haha!)

Well, here it is...As you may have read in a previous entry, we had to go to an emergency vet - we ended up in Banfield the ones housed in PetsMarts. It cost a bundle but their prescriptions seem to be having a positive effect.

We have to go on a return visit. Mama is thinking that she is going to take the papers from Banfield with meds and treatment info. to our regular vet and make an appt. there, rather than go to Banfield again.

Not that we think they did anything wrong and we strongly approve of their offered "walk-in" service option.

But we think it would be best to let our regular Doc know and get her to help us discover a remedy to keep this from happening again.

(What is happening, for those who don't know..."Atopy" or a rather severe allergic reaction. Samoa had something that looked very much like this, but the vet didn't call it that. Savvy's is more severe but Samoa's seems to be recurring which I would very much like to avoid.)

Mama is satisfied with the treatments from both which include" antibiotics, improved diet, Omega 3 supplement, steroid shot (Savvy) and some medicinal shampoo and ointment. Also ear cleaner and drops for Savvy who developed an ear infection along with everything else.

Sooo....

Agree? Keep in good contact with Banfield, but do follow up visit with regular vet? Or - do follow up for Savvy with Banfield, inform regular vet and ask for additional advice on controlling this if it reoccurs?

thankee. I am in good with the Candy Fairy. I will have her drop some goodies off for you!
Savvy!

All Set for Howloween!

I love Howloween! This is my third year of celebrating it. There was a Howloween when I was just a tiny puppy, but I slept through that one.

What we do is set out a big bowl of goodies right next to the side porch. Mama does a little "Haunted Grove" arrangement right there with lights and spiders and skeletons and stuff.

The kiddies have to come up the driveway and get their candy from the Haunted Grove. Mama and us sit on the side deck - so we can visit with the kiddies without getting loose. (the deck has a gate)

We can stick our heads through and say hello and we get lots of pats. Dubs might wear a costume, but Samoa and I don't like to.

Mama usually just wears a black sweatsuit and sometimes a mask. Not a scary one, just a Zorro Mask. Maybe she is supposed to be Zorro, I don't know.

If you could stop by, that would be real cool. We will give you some candy and bark you back down the driveway!

Savannah!

Super Sized Me!

I had to go to the vets yesterday because I got an allergy - Mr. Vet calls it "Atopy" and it costs a lot of money, but my Mama loves me and doesn't care. Well, she does, but I am worth it.

Actually, she did point out that this vet visit cost more than I did. She said we could have gotten another labrador puppy for what it cost us. But I reminded her that we have a strict one labby rule in this household. So having a half-caste like Samoa or a complete joke of dog genetics like Dubs is ok, but Only One Lab.

Me.

Anyway, she is giving me lots of hugs and hot dogs. She hides my meds in hot dogs. I know she is doing it, but I think it is cute so I let her think it is fooling me.

I already feel better, but kinda sleepy.

Here is the big news, though.

I am super-sized. The wall chart in the vets office says female labbies should top out around 70 lbs. Not on this pup's planet! Granted, I am a BIG girl. I have been admired by breeders and sporting dog enthusiasts for my extra jumbo size. I think one fellow got upset, 'cos I can't be bred! (I am happier that way, poor Fur Mama was bred too much and had 15 puppies in my litter!)

The freakish thing is that I was the runt of the litter and neither furmama or papa was all that big for a lab.

But I...get this...weigh 112 pounds. And I am not fat. Even the vet said so, and vets are always trying to find something wrong! But no, I am a freight train of yellow retrieving action and to celebrate, I dragged the tall but skinny vet tech through the office like he was a bundle of sticks. Mama grabbed the leash and threw the brakes on. She is pretty strong for a Mama. Plus, she is used to me.

I gotta go change my bio. page.

112 pounds. Yowza.

Savannah! (Big and Beautiful!)

A Note to Our Friends...

We are going to be on vacation next week. Mama says we can go to the beach, and also on a hike or two.

We are also going to be helping paint Grandma's bedroom. I think that will REALLY be fun!

So if you don't hear from us for a week or so, don't fret! We are fine and having a ball!

Hope you do, too!

Love, Savvy and Samoa and Dubs.

(also Max Bellini!)

5 Things I like about Fall!

I found this on my little friend Zaidie's page - I DO like fall, so I can easily find 5 things I REALLY like about it.

1. Geese! I love to chase Canada Geese when they light on the ground. I also love to chase them when they fly overhead a'honking!

2. Leaves! All over the ground! I love to roll in them!

3. Empty fields - all the corn is down and the fields are empty to romp through. Oh, how a pup loves to romp in a muddy field!

4. Chicken Soup. The peeps are much more likely to be serving chicken soup at this time of year. And there always seems to be a little left for me!

5. Cooler weather! This is a dog who loves the cool weather! Much more rompability potential when it ain't so hot!

Savvy!

Epilogue...

As the ship sailed away from the Jamaican cove and took the winds to tack Northwards, a group of dogs and Pirates sat on a rise watching.

"I'm going to miss her" said Goliath.

"She was like a sister to me" said Candy "We shared lipsticks!"

"Thanks to her we have a new life here" said Black Pete, holding a lap full of squirming puppies and leaning over to kiss Bessie on the nose.

"We do have a new life...And the treasure is still here and safe with us, so we can make sure the puppies are well off, strong and healthy. And none of us will need to fear the soldiers anymore." said Kirby.

"And do you know?" said Sweet Bessie "I don't think this is REALLY the end of the story..."

And the breeze blew soft over the hillside, rustling the palms and the tops of the coffee plants...

(there you go, Kirby!)

I Surprise Myself...

We froze where we stood, and saw our hopes for an escape Northward dashed away! I turned to face the Sergeant and was amazed to find him yanking off the rest of his uniform. “Blasted Heat!” he exclaimed. “If only I could get a posting to a nice cool place! Dratted Islands, Dratted Pirates!”

“Ahem!” I said, trying to get his attention “Pardon me, Mr. Sergeant, Sir. All the Pirates seem to have escaped. Only the fishermen and I are left.”

“Whot! Whot! Whot!” he seemed to have lost control of himself all together. He stammered a bit more and then collapsed in a heap.

“Water!” I called and at once several of the fishermen emptied their water canteens on him.

“Gaah!” Hollered the Sergeant “Stop that!” He sat up. In his disheveled appearance he seemed much more likeable and less stiff and formidable. I felt my heart swell with an emotion I had not suspected I was capable of. Surprising myself as much as him, I leaned over and kissed him on the snout.

“Now, Miss!” he said, but I shushed him.

I asked “How would you like to travel with me to a place where it is cool? Where the fish jump and a dog knows what snow is like? In my Northern Homeland there are wide plains and forests and trees and mountains and the sea – room for a couple of misplaced pups who long for the cool of long nights and the starry Northern Skies!”

“Oh, Miss!” he exclaimed, his blue eyes flashing “I never liked the blasted service anyway! How do we get to this wonderful place?” he asked and we linked paws as we headed towards the cove and the ship that would take us North.

The End.
Savannah!

(for more exciting stories tune into Samoa's page where he is telling Ghost Stories in honor of Halloween!)

The Night (and the path) are long...

After what seemed like a very long while, Sergeant Flash Bandit piped on a whistle and called a halt. "We should rest" he declared and called for Goliath to come speak with him. I stayed nearby to listen to the conversation.

"Do we near the town?" asked the Sergeant "These pups are becoming footsore and the day is not far off. It seems we have walked long."

"Well...." stalled Goliath "It seems I have taken a bit of a wrong turn. I can't quite remember this part of the trail. 'Course it IS dark and hard to follow these winding paths. Maybe we should turn back towards the west" he finished and pointed.

"That is East" said the Sergeant. "At least I think it is. Do you, in fact, have any idea WHERE we are?"

"A "Course!" replied Goliath "We are on the island of Jamaica, m'lord!"

The Sergeant responded by shaking his head and rubbing his feet. "That will be all, Brown Dog."

We sat in the starless darkness under the deep woods. Plainly none of us were certain of our whereabouts. Except, I suspected - Goliath. The Sergeant was muttering to himself and had taken off his heavy red jacket. "Blasted Island, Blasted Heat!" he said. "We rest for an hour and then I will lead. I expect we need to go that way..." he pointed back the way we had come, but seemed very uncertain.

I settled back against a tree to doze for a while. I may have drifted off, or may have really heard the rustlings of much movement. When I suddenly started awake at a tug on my smock, I noticed that the small clearing was almost empty of Pirates. Bessie and Paulo and Black Pete and the puppies had all disappeared! Only a few remained, most of my fisherman mates and Goliath and Kirby.

"Miss, do you want to come with us?" Kirby asked me.

I replied "I really want to go home to Newfoundland!"

"Then follow this path" Goliath pointed. "Lead your fishermen there. You will find a cove, with a ship and it ready to sail - take the ship and set North and remember us fondly!" he finished and they faded back into the trees and were gone!

As if in a dream I slowly woke my fisherman companions. As we crept towards the path and our freedom and passage home, the Sergeant abruptly sat up.

"Hold!" he barked and we froze! Oh, what would become of us now?

Savannah!

Bessie’s Plan…

“I think you should not wait for the other troops to return, but YOU should turn us in for the reward.” Bessie said.

The rest of us shouted “No!” in unison, but Bessie shook her head and held up a hand for quiet. “We need to think of the puppies.” She said. “We can’t go on the run with them and at least this way they will be put in a safe home. Perhaps someday…” she said, wiping a tear…”I can hope to see them again.”

I looked at the others and all seemed downcast and defeated. Even Black Pete hung his head in a manner which suggested the fight had gone out of him. Sergeant Flash Bandit was looking both sad and uncertain. “Hate to separate a Ma and her kidduns.” He said. “Twas an orphan meself.” He continued, and blew his nose on a large bandanna that Candy had handed to him.

“Maybe you could put in a word with the courts?” she suggested. Sergeant Flash Bandit sighed and wiped his face with the bandanna. “Well…”he said. “I don’t know WHEN those others will get back. We might as well start for town. In the dark it will be cooler. Though it might be harder, you know…for one dog to keep an eye on you Pirates. It could be that one or two of you might slip off…in the dark.” He cast a blue eye in my direction and winked. I was surprised, but made hopeful again.

Slowly we gathered our few belongings and a couple of sacks full of baked goods and cookies to sustain us on our sad trek to Port Royal. Before we were ready to leave, Goliath returned with a huge grin that quickly faded as he saw the state of affairs. “Lost them in the woods, Missy” he told me. “But it looks like we have been foxed ourselves.”

“You, Large Brown Dog!” said Sergeant Flash Bandit “You lead the way.” I caught just a glance from Goliath’s brown eyes as he turned and paused for a moment and then started down a path…One that I was quite sure was not the one we had arrived on.

With Goliath leading and Sergeant Flash Bandit following, we made our way into the woods, which was much deeper and darker than it had seemed before. And the path was very winding. I was next to the rear with the Sergeant behind me and tried to keep my spirits up a bit by humming “Shenandoah.” Soon I could hear the Sergeant humming along with me.

We trudged along until well past midnight when I became aware that the red calico smock that Candy wore and which had been in front of me as we walked – was no longer visible and that I was now looking at the broad back of a bulldog in a canvas jacket. Could it be that Candy had slipped away in the dark? Could others have done so? I turned to look at the Sergeant and he was smiling to himself. He winked at me again and said “Darned hard to see, ain’t it Miss?”

Savannah!

Sergeant Flash Bandit...

I hastily stepped in front of the newly united family. I think I hoped to continue the masquerade that would divert attention from Bessie and Pete. But the sharp blue eyes of the soldier – a handsome husky – convinced me that he was not likely to fall for my ruse. It seems that neither had the Captain Shepherd, who had gone off with Goliath. He had left this soldier, an able and smart Husky, to watch the cottage.

“Sir,” I said, more boldly than I felt “If you are looking for escaped Pirates you are most certainly in the wrong place!”

“Am I, my Lassie?” he said in a deep and impressive voice. His blue eyes looked me up and down. “You fit the description of a wanted poster I have seen” he continued. “As do the rest of the pups here, excepting those young ones…”

Hastily, I tried to distract him. “Yes!” I confessed “I am a Pirate and you should arrest me at once and take me to jail, far away from these poor innocent coffee farmers! Shame on me for trying to pass as one of them! Poor wee innocents!”

He looked skeptical. No dog can look as skeptical as a blue eyed husky. He cleared his throat and said: “I am Sergeant Flash Bandit and we will wait here until my Captain comes back. Unless I expire from the heat first.” He huffed and sat down in a shady spot, still looking skeptical. By this time the happy couple and their charming pups had withdrawn to the shady dooryard and were watching the husky cautiously. Young Candy came over with a frosty glass and offered it to the soldier: “Cool glass of tea, sir?” she politely asked. I wondered if she was hoping to lull him as she had the guard dogs at the prison. For some reason, I didn’t expect it to work as well with this dog. He accepted the tea and sipped at it.

“Do you enjoy being in the service, sir?” Candy asked. Sergeant Flash looked surprised but answered “wish I could get a posting to some place not so blasted hot!”

I sighed and said “I also miss cool weather and my far off Newfoundland home.”

“Newfoundland? You don’t say? I have family in those parts!” exclaimed the Sergeant. “Do you know anyone from the Clan Bandit?”

“I believe I do!” I said, quite surprised myself. I HAD known a husky family that lived nearby to my home farm!

“If I may ask, Miss” said the Sergeant “How did such a well brought up young lady as you seem to be – how did you fall in with a pack of cut throat Pirates?”

“Tis a long story…” and as the evening began to fall, I told him of my home and the mishaps that had brought me here. Before I finished, the stars were bright in the sky. He gazed at me with a look less skeptical than before. My hopes rose, as I noticed he seemed to have forgotten all about Jack and Bessie and the others. The pups were sleeping in the straw and Bessie was leaning against the cottage, apparently deep in thought. Jack had dozed off with his large head on the bench she sat on.

“I have a thought…” Bessie said “I wonder if you’ll think it a good one…”

Tomorrow – Bessie’s Idea!
Savannah!

A Reunion and a Meeting...

As Black Pete and Bessie emerged from the woods, I noticed that Bessie was mopping her eyes with a kerchief held in one paw. The other paw was tightly holding Black Pete’s. It seemed there had been a reconciliation. I thought about the tale that Kirby had told me, and the fact that the treasure had been left here by Black Pete – who, though seemingly suspicious, had not questioned Kirby and Dobie on that night when he came searching. I soon found out more of the story…

“Seems my plan has been spoiled…” said Black Pete, looking fondly at Bessie. “Twas I who left the treasure here that night. I left it for Bessie. Though you two…” he indicated Dobie and Kirby…” played a good tune – I saw through it. I smelled the sugar cookies you had been eating. They could only have been baked by my Bessie. I knew she was here. I knew she must have her reasons for hiding, so at that point – I set her free and left the treasure here for her and her friends to draw on as they needed.”

“And I never knew!” said Bessie, crying softly. “But what will we do now?”

“I am leaving my Pirate’s life to be a coffee farmer, with the Labrador I love!” proclaimed Black Pete. “Oh Pete!” sighed Bessie “And there is something I …haven’t told you…” she gestured to the frolicking pups. Black Pete’s eyes grew wide.

“Do you mean…Are they…” he stammered. “Yes!” quavered Sweet Bessie. “I’m a grandfather!” shouted Piebald Paulo. The puppies gleefully swarmed over the three of them. It was a splendid, happy scene!

I turned away to give them some privacy and was shocked to see... at the edge of the woods... a soldier in his red uniform…watching us closely!

Savannah!

Pete and Bessie...

Our masquerade had seemingly worked. Goliath led the troops off on a false pursuit and Mr. Dobie had hastened down to where Pete and Bessie and the other jailbreakers had hidden. Kirby, Candy and I sat on a bench with Bessie's puppies scrambling around in the straw.

While we waited, Kirby began to tell me some of the rest of Bessie's story.

"We had known the lass from before - our human owned a coffee shoppe - the one now known as the "Yellow Dogge" - and we had done much trade with the coffee plantation she grew up on. When she came ashore here, she sought us out."

"Where did the treasure come from?" I asked.

"Ah, the treasure...I don't know WHERE it came from. But I remember HOW it got here. Twas the very night these pups were born. A storm had blown in from the south and the palms were tossing 'neath a black sky. Candy was sitting with Bessie, and Goliath and I were pacing about in a state of nerves. Finally, my nerves failed me and I told the others that I must run to Port Royal to check on the Coffee Stock. When I got there, I found that Mr. Dobie had closed the shoppe and the shutters and was hunkered down with a lantern and the accounting books. I fixed us a pot of java and settled down for a long night. I sat in a corner, prepared to sharpen pencils and munching from a sack of day old sugar cookies.

Suddenly, there was a massive bang on the door of the shoppe! Alarmed, both Dobie and I started from our chairs. "Was it a tree?" asked Dobie, mopping his spilled coffee. The bang repeated. "Someone's at the door" I quavered, and weakly moved to open it. "Wait!" said Dobie "Spy through the peeper first!" and placed his eye at the small hole bored midway up the door. "'Tis a black dog...with a wagon in the street behind him." The door crashed again and Dobie reeled away from the spyhole and landed on his rump in the middle of the room.

I braced myself...and opened the door. The space was filled by a huge black dog in a flowing black cape. "Know ye..." he started "a young female, a yellow dog name of Sweet Bessie?" The pair of us waggled our heads in the negative. The black dog stood dripping from the rain, and glaring at us skeptically. I shakily held out a cup of coffee, but the dog ignored me. "Have ye a place where I might hide a wagonload...of goods?" he said, changing the topic.

"Indeed, sir. Mr. Dobie's Long Term Storage - at your service."

A long night of crating closely wrapped items and carting them to Mr. Dobie's storage followed. We worked hard, overseen by the Huge Black Dog. Both of us feared to ask questions of him, but I remember that night whenever I smell cheese. I guess you can figure what was in that wagon. And where the treasure of the cave came from...

As we finished the work and returned to the Coffee Shoppe, the Black Dog paid us in Spanish Gold and said..."Remember the name of Black Pete, laddies. And guard that wagonload!"

He then strode off into the darkness. That night Sweet Bessie had her pups. And I still wonder if we should have told Black Pete that we knew of her whereabouts."

At this he paused and looked thoughtful. And we heard the first sounds of Mr. Dobie's return. And the arrival of Black Pete and Sweet Bessie!

Savannah!

Fooling the Lobsterbacks!

(bonus episode as we will not be near a computer tomorrow)

We were winded by the time we reached the cottage. We had made it before the troops, but had no time to spare. I alerted my companions - Pirates and Fishermen both while Candy scooped up double paws full of fat puppies and ran to the barn with them. After I had quickly dressed myself in a calico gown of Bessie’s and placed a lacy cap over my worn bandanna, I took the brown puppy she handed to me, linked my paw with Goliath’s and strode out of the cottage to meet the soldiers. In his free paw, Goliath held an ample basket of Bessie’s Sugar Cookies. We stood at the edge of the coffee grove and waited. Soon we could hear the shuffling tramp of the soldiers growing closer. I held Goliath’s paw tightly and hoped our masquerade would save us, and Sweet Bessie’s pups.

The soldiers, led by the Guards from the jail, came out of the forest. Goliath politely bowed and I dropped my very best curtsy as Goliath extended the basket of cookies at a uniformed Shepherd Dog who seemed to be an officer. “Good Day, Noble Sir” Goliath said “Allow this humble coffee farmer to offer you a treat from my wife’s kitchen” nodding at me “and the well wishes of all who dwell here.”

The officer looked somewhat taken aback, though he did accept a cookie. After ordering his men into ranks, as their order had been broken by the scramble through the woods, he took another cookie and said “We are a search party. We are looking for escaped pirates. Some dogs were seen in the area of the jail.”

“Oh Dear!” I feigned fluttering, and clutched at Goliath. “On the loose and we all alone up here with our darling Baby Biscuit!”

“Charming name, madam” said the officer. “And are you adept at baking biscuits as well? I am fond of a warm biscuit!”

“My wife is the best baker on this island!” boasted Goliath. “Allow us to treat you to tea!”

“Oh, I wouldn’t think of inconveniencing you!” said the officer, but Goliath replied: “Think nothing of it! ‘Bout to partake ourselves!” And the troops followed us to the cottage where I could hear the kettle already whistling. The officer came inside while his troops settled under the shade of a nearby tree.

“I feel so much safer with you here….” I said, batting my eyes at the officer. Candy had returned to the kitchen, having swapped her saloon girl finery for a simple calico smock and scarf. She was brewing tea and buttering scones and humming a carefree tune. I admired her calm. I sat on a stool and bounced the hefty pup on my knee. He stared round eyed at the officer who attempted to amuse him by dangling his watch chain.

One of the officer’s men stuck his head in the doorway and said “Hadn’t we better be after the escapees?”

“Now, Boswell” said the officer “There is time for that. Important to make friends with the population as well. And if a warm biscuit is available, no harm in stopping for a chat and some tea.”

In time the tea was brewed and honey and cream and jam were produced. I had to admit the scones WERE excellent, and seemed to be having a positive effect on the officer who was telling stories of his adventures in India to the drowsy Biscuit.

Finally he patted his stomach and said “Well, I thank you for the hospitality Mum and Sir! Plainly the Pirates have not come this way, for they never would be able to resist those tasty scones!”

“Perhaps you missed the trail?” asked Goliath. “I am known somewhat for my tracking skills. Why not have me help, perhaps I can lead you to the knaves?”

As the officer was ordering his troops to line, Goliath whispered to me “I’ll lead them so far astray they’ll swear they got transported to the Antipodes! And then I’ll lose them and return here.” I squeezed his paw in gratitude and relief. Our masquerade had diverted the danger, for now. But what of the real Bessie and of Black Pete?

(more coming!)
Savannah!

To the Hills!

“Now keep a cool head, mates! And we’ll have you out of there in a pigs blink!” said Kirby who promptly produced a short saw from the remains of the cheese. Lovely Candy lifted her flounced skirts and produced several more – she handed one to Goliath and one each to Piebald Paulo and to Black Pete. They rapidly set to work on the bars of their cell – which fortunately – seemed to be of weak and aging material. “Cuts just like Cheese!” Kirby gloated as he cleanly sawed through the first of the bars. Pete and Goliath made rapid work of the rest and soon a hole big enough for Pete and Paulo to come through was completed. First of all, Black Pete leaned through the opening and clasping Bessie in his paws he said “How could I have doubted you?” and kissed her. We only just stopped ourselves from applauding their reunion but the need for escape now that they were free was pressing. Candy went to the jailhouse door and looked both ways. “All clear” she said and stepped aside as we rapidly exited, with Black Pete and Goliath bringing up the rear.

We headed at once back towards the path through the forest and soon were climbing it, further and further into the hills over Port Royal. If we had made good speed coming down, we did even better on the return trip. At last we became winded though and both Kirby and Pete decided that taking a rest was safe enough. We moved into a small grove, screened by trees but just yards from the pathway. I lay down to rest and found myself quite close to the spot chosen by Black Pete and Bessie. In spite of myself, I wanted to hear what they might have to say to each other. Instead, I must have dozed off because when I woke up it was nearly dark. Even through the thick trees overhead I could see stars and could smell a faint salt breeze on the air. Startled I sat up and looked about me, and all around me were Pirates, Pups and Fisherman. But there was a sound…that I couldn’t quite recognize. It seemed to be coming from afar off, but grew louder by the moment. Nearby Black Pete sat abruptly up. “Soldiers!” he said.

As quietly as we could, we roused the rest of the sleepers and drew back as far away from the trail as we could, without making any conspicuous noise. And then anxiously, we waited as the sound of the soldiers drew closer and closer. Voices became distinguishable. “Was a gang of them” growled a low voice “With Guns and Knives! Set about us and forced us to swill that cider! An’ afor we knew it, had us trussed up and made off with the prisoners.” Another voice hissed: “Bluto, ye lug! We wasn’t tied up! Get yer story right, scurvy knave.” I could just recognize the voice of the two guards at the prison, now engaged in inventing a plausible excuse for the escape. But they were the least of our troubles…Other voices emerged through the trees.

“…And I hear tell there is a coffee plantation at the top of this ridge. If the prisoners came this way, no doubt that is what they are aiming for.”

“Do you suppose that the owners of the plantation are involved in this?”

“Oh, can’t say. Place is run by a lady dog – very nice. Makes a tasty sugar cookie.”

Beside me I heard a low hiss. It was Bessie. “My puppies!” she whispered “They are at the cottage!”

I knew I could never rest if I let anything happen to those sweet puppies! At once a plan came to me! I could help! I whispered hurried instructions to Kirby and Goliath and to Young Candy. The plan must be a sound one, and we must act on it at once! Quickly we came to an agreement, which we shared with the others. And then – the four of us – Kirby, Goliath, Candy and myself – headed quickly uphill, keeping off the trail, but moving rapidly to gain distance and arrive at the coffee plantation before the soldiers.

(The Play is the Thing...tomorrow!)
Savannah!

In the Jailhouse!

After a few gulps of cider had their mellowing effect on the guards, Young Candy sashayed forth, swinging her hips and tail and setting her black and red skirt billowing around her legs. She moved down the street and the Guards turned their attentions from the keg of cider to her. She paused and straightened a garter. Their eyes went wide. Hastily they wiped clean a mug and filled it with cider. Both of them turned towards her and with rather scary looking grins on their faces asked “Like a little sip of grog, pretty one?” Candy pouted her lips and swished forward. She daintily took the mug and sipped at it. “Oooooh.” She said “Soooo tasty!” as the Guards fell over each other attempting to be the first one to offer her a nugget of cheese. It was a tie, as two large paws extended with choice slices of the large golden cheese. Candy giggled again and sat down with them on the steps of the jailhouse. I saw her secretly pour her cider on the ground and hold up her mug for more. The Guards hastened to comply and refilled their mugs at the same time.

Before long the Guards were in a sodden heap. The cider had been strong and the sun was hot. They lay snoring on the small wooden porch of the jailhouse.

“Quickly now” said Mr. Dobie who had remained behind with us. Kirby, Goliath, Candy and Bessie were already opening the jailhouse door with the keys Candy had lifted from the drunken guards.

I was right behind them as the door swung upon. Over the shoulder of Kirby I could see Black Pete and Piebald Paulo – their faces stunned with amazement – as Sweet Bessie ran to the bars and cried out “Oh Pete! We have come to save you!”


(Head for the Hills! Tomorrow!)
Savannah!

Wheel of Cheese...

(a special pre-weekend episode!)

We loaded a large cheese, two delicious smelling sausages and a keg each of ale and cider on small and wobbly wheelbarrow that was parked near the fabulous treasure. “Throw a couple of those ropes of pearls on there, just in case the guards prove to be costly” said Kirby. He continued: “The plan is this. I and Goliath will wheel these goods in front of the jail – as if we were delivering them to a shoppe or some such. When the guards get a good look at them, we will offer them a taste – then, ahem! Young Candy (who will accompany us) will use other means to distract them.”

“In the meantime, you had better go tell your traveling companions our plan. Make sure none of them are likely to squeal” he cautioned me, on our way back to the cottage.

“Pirate or Fisherman, they are stout hearted lads” I replied. “May they hide out here while we attempt to affect Black Pete’s Escape?”

“Yes!” they all agreed “And if we succeed, we will try to find you passage back to Newfoundland!”

Elated, I set forth at once for the grove where my companions waited. Several of them were excited at the idea of helping with a jail break. We told the others to lay low, and Bessie and Candy generously made them all hasty eggs and toast for a meal before we set off again for Port Royal. They were so grateful that they offered to pupsit the little ones so that both Candy and Bessie could help with the escape.

My feet were sore, but my heart was sailing at the idea of rescuing Paulo and Pete and getting this family together and also with the thought of going home to my beloved Newfoundland! (Little did I realize the adventures I would live through before that happy return!)

We made haste through the woods to the edges of town. Unlike my flight from Port Royal, this trip seemed to take no time at all. Soon we were gathered in a whispering cluster by the back of a shoppe several buildings down from the jail. Kirby had refined his plan somewhat and taking the Giant wheel of cheese from the cart, he started rolling it down the street. We furtively watched him as he wobbled along. The guards in front of the jail watched him too. They were a pair of Enormous Mastiffs with spiked collars and rough demeanors. Kirby panted and pushed and finally – as if by accident – lost control of the cheese directly in front of the jail. He stormed around kicking sand to the amusement of the guards and then struggled to right the hefty wheel of curd. He had no success.

“Mates” he said to the Guards “Help a lad with his cheese, won’t you?” One of the Guards smirked and replied “We are on duty here, scruff pants. No time for your cheese or for you!” and he disdainfully tossed a handful of sand at the cheese. Kirby looked astounded and hastily worked to brush away the sand. “Fellows!” he exclaimed “This is a rare and valuable cheese! I was just trying to deliver it to the Guv’nor’s Mansion when the wheels fell off me wagon! Help a lad, won’t you? P’raps there be some reward in it!” At this the Guards looked slightly more interested.

Just then, Goliath started down the street in Kirby’s wake, toting a massive keg of hard cider. As he came up to Kirby and the Guards he sighed heavily and put it down, hard, in the sand. “Tis too late, lad” he said to Kirby “We’ll never get yon cheese to the Manse in time for the noon meal. Best save ourselves the trouble of toting it. Nor this cider.”

“But how will we get it home without a barrow?” asked Kirby and Goliath gave the Guards an appraising look. “Guv’nor’s men, be ye not?” he asked. “Good as the Guv’nor in this dogs eyes! Like some cheese, would ye mates?”

The Guard’s eyes fair goggled and Kirby started at once to carve cheese and Goliath to tap the cider keg. From our hiding place behind the nearby building we helped young Candy put on her flounced skirt and some very red lipstick. She fluffed her hair and said “Ready to go!”

“Let them have a wee tap of cider first,” I advised and we peered forth to watch the progress of Kirby and Goliath’s plan.


More on Monday!
Savannah!

Bessie's Friends...

The door swung violently open and a deep voice questioned – “What is going on in here?” I had fallen behind the door while supporting Bessie and we were partly blocking its opening. The owner of the deep voice strained against the door. I had an impression of a huge brown dog, but the door was not wide enough to allow his entrance. Another voice said “Goliath, allow me” and a small wiry haired and feisty looking dog shoved his way inside.

“Oh, Kirby!” moaned Sweet Bessie and he patted her paw. I reached for a cup of tea and we offered her a drink. “This lady says that my Pete is not dead!”

“Not Dead!” exclaimed Kirby! “Are you here to arrest us, Miss?” he asked me.

“No, I only happened upon this place while trying to escape the island!” I quickly explained how I had come to be there and what I knew of Black Pete. By this time the dog Goliath had entered and filled most of the room and was listening to my story intently as were Kirby and Bessie who cuddled and soothed her 7 pups.

“So Mr. Dobie, shoppe keeper led you here?” asked Goliath. “I don’t think he did it deliberately. I think he was trying to get rid of us. The rest of my party is hiding in the woods beyond the coffee groves.” I replied.

“And none of them are the Law?” asked Kirby. “No, we are also trying to escape!” I pointed out.

“We need to make a plan” said Goliath and he and Kirby retired to the corner and put their heads together. Bessie and I sat with the pups, nervously waiting for them to enlighten us.

Finally Goliath turned to us and said “Bessie – we will try to rescue Pete. I think we need to let this dog help us. And I think we need to show her the Treasure Cave.”

In spite of the fact that I was not a true Pirate my heart leapt at the idea of a cave full of treasure. I began to sense that there was at least part of Sweet Bessie’s story that she had failed to tell me. It proved to be so.

After giving Bessie a chance to recover herself and summon her female companion, a lovely pup called Candy that offered to watch the puppies, we gathered together behind the cottage. I was concerned at leaving my fellow fugitives, but hoped that they would still be soundly asleep when we returned. Kirby led the way and we hastened once again into the dark surrounding woods. A twisting and turning path led to a small waterfall. Behind the waterfall yawned a dark cave, its entry nearly covered with moss. Goliath produced a lantern and following him, we crept into the cave. It was deep and dark and we went for some distance into it before I began to notice: the unmistakable odor of fine cheese! My eyes were amazed when we turned a corner and the light fell upon a wonderland of aged, wax covered cheese and beautiful smoked sausage of all kinds. Some gold and diamonds were scattered within, but the true treasure to a dog were the wonderful foods. Barrels of ale and cider lined one wall and ships biscuits were baled nearby. Surely a dog could eat like a king if he possessed this treasure.

“My plan is to tempt the guards at the prison where Pete is kept.” said Kirby. “A wheel of that cheese and a barrel of cider should do the trick!”

(On Monday - The Plan!)
Savannah!

Stories and Tea…

It was in fact, the much missed Sweet Bessie that I sat with in that humble cottage, in the fields of a coffee plantation. She told me her story. As a young girl pup she had been a happy farm dog, running after goats and her Master - Young Paulo. How she missed those long ago blissful days! They had lived together on a large coffee plantation on another of the Indies, not Jamaica. All was wonderful until one day – a Wealthy Man who owned an adjoining property sued Paulo’s father – won the suit and claimed all of their property – all through a wicked lie!

Paulo and she, in their desperation, had taken to the Sea. And to a life of Piracy. Among their crew was a handsome rascal of a dog called “Black Pete.” Before long, Sweet Bessie and Black Pete had pledged to each other. In those days, Pete was not hard hearted, and claimed his one dream was to run a coffee plantation with Sweet Bessie and Paulo by his side.

Life as a Pirate was dangerous, but thrilling. In spite of herself, Sweet Bessie realized she had gone far astray from the simple, sweet dog she had once been. Both she and Black Pete seemed to revel in the Pirates life – though they knew the dangers they faced. But as time went by, Sweet Bessie began to think of her long lost peaceful home. And she began to wonder if the life of a Pirate Dog was for her. When she discovered that she was going to have pups – she knew what she had to do.

“I feared that Pete would never leave the Pirates life. And so I jumped ship – in Port Royal. I was able to make my way here, and some kind friends helped me start this plantation and also the “Yellow Dogge Coffee Shoppe.” I will introduce my friends to you; perhaps they can help you find a way back to Newfoundland.”

“But Black Pete isn’t dead! He hasn’t died at sea!” I blurted, and then had to hasten to catch Sweet Bessie as she tumbled from her chair.

“Tell me – please tell me that what you say is true!” she begged, when she began to recover. “I was told of his death by a traveling coffee merchant! I took it for the truth! Can it be so? Does he live?”

“It is true – I left him aboard ship not two days ago. He was well…But about to be arrested, I think.” She swooned away again. Her puppies began to awaken and cry for their Mama. As they scrambled about, the door to the cottage swung abruptly open!

Tomorrow: Sweet Bessie’s friends!
Savannah!

Within the Farmhouse...

As I moved across the cultivated field on my way to the farmhouse, I noticed that the shrubby crop seemed to be coffee beans. Here in the highlands of Jamaica, a coffee plantation! The wind blew softly through the rows and a warm scent greeted me. I came closer to the farmhouse, and the small light from the window spilled across the yard. All was quiet. I drew up to the window from the outside and kept below the sill, below the glow of the light from within. At first I kept very still, listening for the sound of movements within. I could hear only a soft rustling and the sighs of sleepers. I carefully raised myself to peer inside. To my extreme surprise, I found that I was looking in a mirror! Not through a window at all. There I was, in the glow of the oil lamp, my own face, my own frilly nightcap! I raised my paw to my head…I had no frilly nightcap, only a worn bandanna! The image in the “mirror” was not me, but a startling look alike in a frilly nightcap. She looked as startled as I imagine I did. I watched her compose herself while I did the same and finally found voice to say…”Hello, Mrs. Sorry to be skulking beneath your window.” She held her paw to her lips and glanced around her and then came to the door and stepped outside onto the porch, where I waited. “Don’t want to wake the pups” she said. “Have you noticed how alike we are?”

“We do resemble each other greatly” I said, and continued “Are you…Begging your pardon…Are you Sweet Bessie?” I asked. She looked briefly startled and then sighed “I suppose it was fated that I be found at some time. Have they sent you here for me?”

“No, madam. No one has sent me. I am trying to get off this island and back to Newfoundland, my home.”

“My…That is a long way off.” She said and at a noise, glanced behind her at the cottage. I could hear small movements from within. “My pups” she said. “My little ones.”

“How lucky you are!” I exclaimed.

“Not so lucky, we are on our own. Their Daddy was lost at Sea.” She replied and wiped a tear from her eye. “Would you like to come in for a cup of tea?” she asked and I agreed.

Stories over the tea: tomorrow!
Savannah!

The way through the woods…

“We have to exit through the storage cellar” said the Dobie, and he leaned to pull the trapdoor wide, again gesturing with a paw for me to step through. I looked down into the cellar at the pirates and pups huddled below. “Bring some of they sugar cookies, Mrs?” requested one of the Pirate Pups, a lad named Riley.
“Excellent Idea, Riley,” I replied and quickly gathered some. I took the trapdoor from Mr. Dobie and waved him through ahead of me. “After you, Mr. Dobie” I told him. My recent experiences had taught me a lesson in caution.

Below, we gathered the crew together and with one dim lantern at the head of us, and one at the rear, we made our way into the tunnels and the dank and musty chambers that webbed beneath the city of Port Royal. Above us we could hear the occasional noise of footsteps or voices, seeming far distant and unreal. We walked through tunnels with low roofs and through large and echoing chambers. At last we came to a thick wooden door. Mr. Dobie stopped in front of it and brought forth a ring of green and antique looking keys. He selected one and turned it in the lock. The door was mossed into its frame and we had to use some force to open it. When we had achieved this we looked out on a dark and obscure opening, with damp ferns partially blocking the way. With some hesitation, I passed the sack of sugar cookies to Riley and pushed through the ferns, not without a tremble at the idea of big hairy spiders which might be lurking there. The other pups and the Pirates followed me through onto a moonlit pathway under a thick cover of tropical trees.

“Follow me,” said Mr. Dobie, and extinguishing his lantern he moved down the path. “Stick close and be silent” he warned. I also put out my lantern as I brought up the rear of our group.

Before long I was having to nip at a few Pirate heels to keep them moving in good order. They were an undisciplined lot and not used to walking far. And it seemed we had a long walk ahead of us. The ground steadily climbed until the trees began to thin and a fresh breeze came on the night wind. It stirred the fog that revealed, then hid the path. At one point the air cleared momentarily to reveal an ancient and rustic graveyard which caused the Pirates to mumble and make signs to ward off evil.

At last we came to a high spot, clear with a view to the North. Along one side of the ridge seemed to be cultivated fields. On the other side was a wandering path that seemed to continue across the fields to the woods beyond. Here I dealt with my first “mutiny” as a number of the Pirates flat refused to walk any further. It was plain that no amount of nipping would move them. “Rest until daybreak” I told them. “Then we must move on.”

I myself planned to use the time to check out the farm we seemed to be near. I could see that some sort of shrubby crop was planted in orderly rows and could just make out some lamplit windows in the distance. I decided to leave the pups and pirates to their naps and snacking and went to have a peek.

(What I saw – tomorrow!)

A hiding place...

Those of us that safely reached the sands quickly decided that our best course was to get undercover. The fighting between the Pirates and the soldiers seemed to be spreading, and since we were weaponless – and for the most part, not even Pirates – we decided to take cover in a nearby stand of trees. From there we could see the fight as it seemed to favor first the soldiers, then the Pirates. As it came closer we retreated further into the trees and I began to wonder if we should go into hiding as I became more certain that our story of being waylaid from our fishing vessel would not be believed by the “Lobsterbacks.”

Suddenly, I felt a presence just behind me. Fearing the worst, I wheeled around and found myself face to face with the Doberman from behind the counter of the “Yellow Dogge.” I spoke with some haste in my concern “Take us to your Coffee Shoppe, so that we might hide from the soldiers!” I grabbed him firmly by the collar as he tried to back away and shook him hard. “Help us!” I demanded. He did not respond, but waved us forward and down a tiny path into the woods. Soon we came out near an alley and following it, keeping a sharp lookout for soldiers, we entered through the tiny kitchen of the “Yellow Dogge.” “Tis a storage cellar” he said and pulled a big metal ring in the floor. A narrow stairwell led down. “The rest of you go” I said “Hide yourselves. I’ll stay here with Mr. Dobie to make sure he doesn’t bring the Lobsterbacks!” The handful of pirates, fishermen and the cook made haste to get downstairs. I found myself in the kitchen with the Doberman who was nervously pulling on his collar and glancing towards the door. “Don’t think it!” I said. “I can’t allow you to run off and turn us in.”

“Tis not that, Miss. It is just that…”

“What?” I asked.

“It is just that…I have a friend who doesn’t like Pirates much.” He stammered.

“We don’t mean to stay. We only need to hide until we come up with an escape plan.” I told him.

“Do you mean if I helped you escape you would go away?” He asked.

“Happily” I replied.

“I do know a path…that could take you to the other side of the island. I could get you a boat there…”

“Do it!” I answered; peering round the frilly curtains to make sure no one had followed us.

(Tomorrow: Path through the woods…)
Savannah!

Disaster or Rescue?

My mind was filled with plans and plots as we arrived back at the Pirate Ship. As we loaded the supplies aboard, I noticed I was being closely watched by Black Pete. Of course, he had the usual snarling scowl on his face and when I passed close beside him on the gangplank, he suddenly stepped in my path and snarled “You smell of Sugar Cookies.” In fact, I realized – I had forgotten to brush the crumbs away and I had quite a few on my chops and chest. Black Pete leaned forward and took a sniff. “I know those cookies…” he started, but just at that moment a loud noise and crashing impact knocked us apart. As I scrambled to my feet, my mind scrambled to explain the cookies and my suspicions about them.

“Warships!” came the cry from the Captain’s Deck. “Warships in Harbour! Lobsterbacks on the move!” And in fact, I could now see a number of troops in scarlet headed down the piers and straight for our vessel. My feelings were mixed. Could this mean I might be returned to my Fishing Boat? Or would I be taken for a Pirate by the soldiers and arrested for who knows what fate? There was another crash and I heard Black Pete’s voice cry out, just as I was dashed overboard into the harbor. As I righted myself in the water, I could see that the ship was overrun with soldiers. Once more I heard Black Pete’s voice and he was shouting “Swim for it, Sweet Bessie! Save yourself!”

In the water all around me Pirates were scrambling and sputtering, some trying to make for shore and some plainly ready to give up to the soldiers if only they could be rescued. Near me bobbed the cook. I had a fondness for him, and realized he – like many of the Pirates – seemed unable to swim. Some of my fisherman mates were in the water too, but most of them were making for dry land. I grabbed the cook by his neckerchief and began to tow him towards the beach. As I finally fought my way ashore I could see the Pirate Ship was taken. And I must assume, Capt. Paulo and Black Pete.

(Next: We head for the hills!)
Savannah!

A Tale from the Cook...

The Pirate cook and I walked slowly back to the ship. He was encumbered by a quantity of grog and also by a barrow full of supplies we had purchased. We had bananas and other tropical fruits, we had flour and rice and herbs. I had told the cook how he might fix some foods that would make him even more popular with the crew and thus increase his grog ration. Lots of dinners could be made with fish and a few extra supplies. So he was happy to push the barrow along, and on the way told me some tales of life on board ship.

After a while I ventured “Did you know the first “Sweet Bessie”?” And he stammered a bit but then said “Don’t let it get back to Black Pete that I spoke of her. Puts him in a bad temper, ye know what I mean.” I agreed – Black Pete in a bad temper was a thing to be avoided. The cook continued – “Sweet Bessie was a lovely dog. She wasn’t born to be a Pirate, but when Piebald Paulo fell into the trade, she faithfully came along with him. And of course, she was devoted to Black Pete.”

“Where do you think she went?” I asked “Do you think she went away willingly?”

“All I know is that she were a bit moody in the weeks before she disappeared. Right here in Port Royal. Gone in the blink of an eye and no trace to be found. Whenever I think of her yet, I remember the sweet sugar cookies she used to bake for the crew.”

Sugar Cookies! No doubt she had something to do with the Yellow Dogge Coffee Shoppe! How could I get back ashore to find out more? I must make a plan!

Savannah!

At the Sign of the Yellow Dogge...

Our days on ship board passed swiftly. In spite of the enmity of Black Pete, I remained happy enough, and continued to make allies and companions of many of the Pirates aboard. My fisherman mates also rose in esteem due to their ability to provide many a feast for the hungry crew.

Still, when we saw the seabirds over the skyline above Port Royal, we were happy to think of some time on dry ground. At first, it looked like we fisher captives were to be fated to remain on board, but Piebald Paulo relented, much to Black Pete’s disapproval and we were allowed ashore a few at a time in order to buy supplies and fishing tackle for the voyage ahead. I was assigned a “guard” in the form of the Pirate Ship’s Cook who was to see that I acquired the items on my list of requisitions and to help me carry them back to the ship. “And Sweet Bessie” said Piebald Pete “Think ye not of wandering off!” he continued, with a not too convincing scowl. In the scowl department, no one could match Black Pete.

As the Cook and I wandered through the market, I could see his eyes drawn to the various tavern signs. At last, in the heat of the afternoon, he suggested a visit to one. “For a Quencher, Miss – you’ll understand.” I told him that I had no fondness for liquor and would prefer a nice ice cream cone. Just across from the sign of the “Bloody Eagle” Tavern, there was a sign for the “Yellow Dogge Coffee and Treates Shoppe.”

“I’ll go in there while you visit the “Eagle.” I suggested. “I was told by the Captain to keep you by me” he hesitated. “Promise to be a good Missy and don’t wander off?” I did promise and looked forward to a frosty treat as I entered the tidy little structure. As I went up to the counter, I noticed a quite startled look on the Doberman waiting there. “Surprised to see ye in Town, Mrs.” He said, and then narrowed his eyes and looked closer. “Aye, I was mistaken I see. Thought you was some ‘nother yellow dog I knowed once. But not anymore. Don’t know of ANY yellow dogs, not me. Not ‘round here. No, Madam – no yellow dogs. Naught but the one on the signage as ye’ll see.”

I was a bit taken aback by his hasty and confusing language, but soon concentrated on my order. “I’ll have a double dip of butter pecan, with some hot fudge and some of those pretty sugar cookies. And could I sit by the window, please? My companion may grow concerned, if I am too long out of view.” He hastened to fill my request and then said… “Be you travelling with Pirates, Miss? I only ask, ‘cos we likes to keep it peaceful ‘round here. No trouble and no yellow dogs. Aside from yourself, Miss and the one on the sign. No others, of course. Not ‘round here.”

His repeated denials began to stir a thought in my head. Was it possible that he knew something of Sweet Bessie? But before I could voice my thought, I saw the cook - staggering a bit - swagger across the street and tap on the window of the “Yellow Dogge.”

“I must go” I told the Doberman “But I would like to visit again. And do you think I could get the recipe for these delicious cookies? Surely you must have a skilled baker that makes them. Perhaps that lady would meet with me?”

“Think not Missy. And whoever our baker is, she is certainly no yellow dog. But we do appreciate your custom.”

At that, I had to take my leave, but my mind was full of questions.

(Tomorrow – What the Cook may know…)
Savannah!

Black Pete's Secret...

The next day dawned bright and brisk and I was told to go forward and direct the fisherman in hoisting additional sail to head us faster southwards towards the Isle of Jamaica and Port Royal. I happily went forward to assist. Already I seemed to have gained the trust of some of the Pirate Crew. I saw little of the Captain, but when I did see him he always gazed at me wistfully and gave a little smile and wave. I would grin back and give him a hearty wag as I told the fisherman to “Hoist Away!” And beneath us we could feel the ship catch the wind and move quicker through the waves.

The fishermen and I were taking a little breather and enjoying the fresh winds from the fo’castle when I heard that familiar, growling and stern voice. “Well, Miss Bessie! If that work is too easy for ye, I can find ye a bit more!” And of course, I turned to see the grim visage of Black Pete.

“Leave off, Pete, won’t ye?” said one of the other of the Pirate Crew. “Sweet Bessie ain’t bothering ye none. Have a drink of grog and stop being such a black tempered scull.” Though I appreciated the support, this comment brought nothing but a blacker scowl and a low growled warning noise. “Let ye mind yer own business, ye scurvy knave.” Growled Pete, but he turned away and went below.

“Ah, Missy. Mind ye not that ill tempered creature. He has a darkness on him, and I fear he has the bad eye for you and for all yellow dogs of your ilk.”

And then he told us this story. Seems that years before, Black Pete and Captain Piebald Paulo had been the best of friends. The Captain’s own dog, “Sweet Bessie” had been pledged to Black Pete and all three were the happiest of beings. But then, one dark night, Sweet Bessie was not to be found. The ship was in port at the time, and the crew and Captain and Black Pete looked high and low. But never did they see Sweet Bessie again. “It is because of your likeness to her that the Captain loves you and Black Pete does not. His black soul won’t ‘low him peace.” Said the old Pirate.

He continued: “I fear it will worsen the closer we come to Port Royal. Twas there that Sweet Bessie was lost.”

At these words, I resolved that whatever it took…I WOULD find Sweet Bessie or what had become of her. I WOULD solve the mystery and bring peace to Piebald Paulo and the haunted Black Pete.

At night, on the deck....

Late that evening, as we lay about the clean and fresh smelling, newly scrubbed deck, the breeze was warm in our sails as we headed gently southwards. In spite of the troubles we had seen over that last hours, I felt oddly at peace. The pirate crew and my own fishing mates had enjoyed a wonderful cod-based feast of baked, fried and frittered delights and the cook was pleased with his efforts and with the praise he had received from the satisfied crew. “Almost homelike, ain’t it” said one of the fiercer looking pirates, gently picking his teeth with a codfish bone. “It be” said his partner, stretching and taking another pull from his mug of grog.

From aft, the mournful sound of a harmonica began to play the old whalers song “Shenandoah.” I remembered long ago times hearing my mother gently sing that to we pups as we rocked in our rowboat crib on a long ago Labrador beach. Without being fully aware that I was doing so, I began to sing to the wistful tune.

Oh, Shenandoah, I long to hear you,
Away, you rolling river
Oh, Shenandoah, I long to hear you
Away, I'm bound away, cross the wide Missouri.
Oh, Shenandoah, I love your daughter,
Away, you rolling river
Oh, Shenandoah, I love your daughter
Away, I'm bound away, cross the wide Missouri.
Oh, Shenandoah, I'm bound to leave you,
Away, you rolling river
Oh, Shenandoah, I'm bound to leave you
Away, I'm bound away, cross the wide Missouri.
Oh, Shenandoah, I long to see you,
Away, you rolling river
Oh, Shenandoah, I long to see you
Away, I'm bound away, cross the wide Missouri.

By the time I had reached the end of the last verse, several of the dogs on the Pirate crew were howling along in harmony. I saw more than one rugged paw swipe at an eye and some shrugs and snuffles. My fisherman crew was openly moved, and quite a few of the Pirates were congratulating me. “Lovely voice, Sweet Bessie” (for they had taken to calling me this) “sounded like me own sainted Grammer.”

But not Black Pete. He scowled and muttered and then said with a snarl “Many a singing Doxie in Port Royal! Yer nae special for all the airs you give yourself – “Sweet Bessie.”

It sounded like an insult coming from his snarling mouth. But I put my head up and said – “Singing Dachshunds or not, I do my work and then some. And that without complaining, unlike some black faced villains I COULD name.”

A gasp went up from Pirates and fishermen alike. Black Pete only smiled grimly and said “And work enough you’ll have lassie. I’ll see to that.”

(Tomorrow - Black Pete's Secret!)
Savannah!

Black Pete's Ire...

In the morning I woke to the sound of gulls and the snores of Piebald Paulo. I had fallen asleep in the Captain’s Cabin after hearing his rum soaked mourning for his dear Sweet Bessie. Apparently, he had mistaken me for her in his sorrow. In spite of my anger and fear and being kidnapped by these pirates, I felt a measure of sympathy for him. Plainly he had loved his Sweet Bessie.

I stretched quietly, seeking not to disturb him and prepared to go search for my fellows from the fishing boat. I had just closed the cabin door behind me when a rough voice said “Oh, Sweet Bessie, is it?” he sneered. “Well, don’t be thinking the Captain’s folly is going to make it soft for you, me girl.” It was Black Pete. I looked him right in the eye, even though I had to force myself. “I pity the Captain and his loss, but I will do what I must.”

He glared at me for a long moment and turned away “Ye will start with swabbing the deck, proud lassie.”

And so for that day, well until past noon – I scrubbed and scrubbed and the deck soon looked like a ballroom floor. When it was as clean as clean could be, I stopped in the galley and asked for a bowl of stew. The ships cook eyed me warily, but served up the last of our fish stew from the night before. “Enjoy that missy, there will be little to feast on tonight!”

“Can you not have your sailors catch a fish or two?” I asked. “Nay,” he said “they be all too proud or stupid!”

I sat in a corner and ate my stew and while I ate, a plan came to me. “Could you loan me some string and darning needles? And a scrap of salt pork?”

The cook grinned largely at me, and provided what I asked. I went at once to find my mates from the fishing crew and told them my scheme. They set to work, a work they knew well, at once. Before long we had a dozen large cod for the galley and the ships cook was smiling gleefully as he promised “Fish Fritters, Fish Stew, Fish Pasties and more!”

Our brief glee was ended by the glare and growl of Black Pete…”We sail for the Caribee, on the morrow. You Northern Fish Boys better learn a different kind of fishing, and that in a hurry!”

On Monday: The Caribee!
Savannah

Sweet Bessie...

It was a sorrowful bunch of crew I sat with that night - my fellow fishermen kidnapped by the Pirate Crew. We ate the same fish stew we would have had on our own boat, now lost in the distance. It had no savor. We huddled together apart from the pirates and tried to console each other with bravado.

"Saw you stand up to them, Savvy Lass." said one of my fellows. "Was a brave thing to do."

"Quiet over there, you lubbers!" shouted one of the Pirate crew but was himself silenced by a glare from the Pirate Dog Black Pete. We had not even heard him approach but he stood near to us, raking us with a glare like the devil himself.

"Captain want to see that yellow dog. Now - in his cabin." he growled.

I got to my feet reluctantly. Why would the captain single me out? One of my fellow fisherman gave me a weak pat on my flank and said "Be brave, lass." I steadied myself and walked belowships behind the hulking Black Pete.

In the Captains Cabin I could scarcely see. The ports were heavily shrouded and one lone lamp shone over a small map table. The smell of rum was strong. The cabin door slammed shut behind me and I turned to see that I was now alone with Piebald Paulo. Black Pete had not entered the cabin.

"C'mere, girly." coaxed a rum sotted voice. "Lemme get a look at ye, lass." I took a weak step forward into the dim lamp light.

"Tis so." the Captains voice said. He sounded oddly choked. "You are the spitting image of my dear Sweet Bessie! The best dog in the world!"

He hiccuped and continued "Was with me her whole life, from when she was a pup. The only dog I ever really loved! And she loved me too!"

By now he was openly weeping. Clearly I was in no danger from him. In a moment of sympathy for his seeming loss of "Bessie" I stepped forward and laid my head on his knee.

"Oh, Bessie!" he sighed and soon I realized he had fallen asleep. My head was damp from his tears.

(Tomorrow - Black Pete's Ire!)

Savannah!

Black Pete...

"Avast Lubber!" rang the shout across the narrowing channel between our fishing boat and the black sailed Pirate Vessel. A resounding alto bark followed it closely. At the helm of the Pirate Ship we could see a colorful, but ragged human figure and next to him - a large black dog with a bandanna and gold earring.

"Saints help us" said our Captain, to himself. I stood close to him. "Its Piebald Paulo and Black Pete, the Pirate Dog!"

As we watched the dog called Black Pete moved closer to the railing of his ship and I got a good look at him. He was a very large and handsome dog - he appeared to be mostly Labrador, but mixed with some breed that gave him additional size and fierceness. He must have sensed me looking at him, because he turned suddenly and looked across the gap directly into my eyes. For a moment, I thought I caught a look of confusion, but then a grim stare came back. He sneered and turned to our Captain. A loud bark caused several of our crew to jump as some of the Pirate crew began to jump aboard our ship. Black Pete jumped with them.

In spite of myself, I found that I was pressed against my captains legs - and not all together to protect him, but at least partly to feel some defense against the pirates. The captain and I found ourselves facing Piebald Paulo and Black Pete.

"Aaargh." said Piebald Paulo, rather predictably. Black Pete said nothing, but glared at us and sniffed the air. "Don't this wee lassie remind ye a bit of Ol' Bessie?" asked Piebald of Black Pete. He seemed to be speaking of me. Behind me, I could feel the captains legs shivering against my ribs. I decided that it was up to me to put on a brave show for these villains.

"Sir." I began "My name is Savannah, not Bessie. I am a Fisherman's Dog and this is my boat and my captain. What do you want from us?"

Piebald Paulo looked taken aback at my boldness, but not Black Pete. "We need more crew" he growled. "We need vittles and more crew."

Piebald Paulo grinned a toothless grin. He called back over his shoulder "Grab the stewpots, mateys and cull out the likeliest of these fisher laddies. Then back to the ship!" They began to turn away, but then Piebald Paulo turned suddenly and said "Bring along "Sweet Bessie" why don't ye?" and a rough hand clasped my collar. I soon found myself on the Pirate Ship with my own sweet fishing boat making its way into the distance...

(Sweet Bessie, my new life - tomorrow)
Savannah!

Black Sails on the Horizon...

As the storm subsided and just at sunset, the sun shining under the black clouds across the choppy sea, we saw a sight to freeze a sea-dogs heart.

Black Sails on the horizon. It could only mean one thing - Pirates. True, they often left the fishing fleet alone - we had little to pillage and Pirates ever have their minds on plunder. But...if they had suffered damage in the storm, a fishing vessel might have sails, crew and fodder to spare and be worth the chance of attacking.

And little chance would they be taking against even the doughtiest of fishermans crews. And well we knew it.

Against our hopes, the sails grew larger before night fell and hid them from our view. Night was on our side in this - during the dark hours we might steal away and thus save ourselves from the raiding party. All hands set to silently repairing the rigging and getting sail up - we would run in the dark to try to put some distance between ourselves and the ebony sailed vessel.

My sharper nighttime vision proved useful in setting a course away from the pirate ship and I stayed by the captains side through the night. But our hopes were dashed at first light when we again saw the dark sails in our wake.

How had they followed us through the dark? Soon enough we found out...

Savannah!
(Tomorrow, Black Pete - Pirate Dog!)

The Dramatic Pirate Filled Adventures of a Humble Labrador!

And this is how it all started. I was pulling nets for the cod fleet, content with my lot in life as a fishing boat Labrador. The work was hard, but the fish stew that was my pay was savory and warm. The cozy corner of the boat which I had for a bed was filled with soft old sacks and hand me down quilts. I was a happy dog. I did not long for adventures, but when I found myself caught up in them, I hope that I was a brave dog and true.

It was a peaceful summer day when it all began. At noon the sea was as still as glass but soon after a rising breeze began to lift the sails. As things will sometimes go at Sea, this slight breeze at noon was a gale by dinner bells.

The crew fell to work, battening down the sails and hatches in order to ride out the storm. I did my part by fetching stray ropes and belay pins and helping haul sail. They say a strong dog is worth two men, and I did my best that day to prove it true.

Haul! Hooooo! Rang the air around us. The storm was no true worry to the fisherman or to me, a sea-dog for years. Little did we know the dangers that approached on the wings of the storm!

(tomorrow - the black sail!)

Savannah!

Cool Temperatures = More Hugs.

This very important fact became apparent to me just this morning. Not only are the hugs more plentiful, they are longer and snugglier.

One more reason to try to stop global warming.

Savvy. Feeling Hugged!

Pink Pirates...

I have this lovely pink pirate hat and I think it is very becoming. Not all of us like to wear black all the time and the skull and crossbones decoration is just so passe.

Pink is much more suitable to my coloring and a hat is a good idea here in Port Royal. I am with my good pal Jack Sparrow (that's CAPTAIN Jack Sparrow) in the picture and you can see that he likes my pink hat.

Port Royal is a busy place what with the Sea Chanty sing-a-longs and the Grog Parties. The Captain and I have just come from a Grog Party where I believe he had rather too much grog as it has made him a little wobbly. Or is that me wobbling?

Was there something in that glass besides Chicken Broth?

Hic!

Oh dear. Well, it's a Pirates Life for Me!
Big Savvy!

Sneaking Puppy.

Dubs is a sneak and steals my cookies and snacks. I got mad at her last night and barked real big next to her head, and now she is ignoring me. I want her to play and she just looks at me and walks away.

I don't think that she should steal my cookies and snacks and hope that President Obama has time to fit it into his speech tonight. Dubs would listen to him, I think.

I know Mama is going to watch and for once, I want Dubs to sit on the couch instead of me and pay attention, because she might learn something. I am sure that stealing your sisters snacks and cookies is not something that this administration will approve of.

He will also probably tell her that she needs to play nice. Because if she doesn't, she will have to sit in the corner.

President Obama, I am counting on you. Don't let me down!
Savannah!

I take part in a golf match!

Boy, this stuff only looks boring on tv. In fact it is an exciting and fast paced game of wits that only the strong and fleet of foot can suceed at.

This is how I began what I hope will prove to be a long and successful golf career.

Last night we started out of the yard for evening walkies. Across the street from us lives a young man and he had cleverly used his push mower to trim his front lawn into a replica of a mini-golf course. He and some of the other gents from the street, with the aid of some beers, had engaged in an elaborate 19 hole golf match.

They were loud and enthusiastic. Mama was not paying the proper attention and when my eye was caught by the golfing extravaganza, I took off. Cries of "No Dogs, No Dogs!" didn't slow me down as I took a quick gallop through the crowd of club waving golfers. Samoa and Dubs cheerfully ran in my wake.

Then, one of the golfers who seemed to be unaware of the dog presence, raised his club and struck his bright red golf ball. It rolled forward tantalizingly. And before Mama could stop me, I was upon it!

I grabbed it and galloped back into our yard and let the other pups and Mama chase me round and round. Finally, lured by a combination of sweet-talking, foot stomping and grumbling from Mama, I came to her and released the ball.

NOT!

I only pretended I was going to do it! And she fell for it! She always does!

Woohaa!

(Later I heard one of the guys say something about a dog hazard on the 14th hole. And Mama says she will buy him some golf balls to make up for that one and others we will probably steal in the future. )

Savannah!

Labor Day for Dogs!

I love Labor Day weekend. First off I think they actually meant to say "Labrador Day." I don't blame hoomans for getting this wrong, it is easy to see how they might have made a mistake like that. Dog knows they aren't very bright.

Anyway, it is a day for Labradors to rest and relax. Hoomans needs to make sure that everything is nice so that the Labrador doesn't feel any stress and has a nice shady place to nap. Of course, food service is very important. If the hoomans were to say, cookout, that would be splendid. Two brats and a chicken breast and maybe a burger or two would be good. And for dessert? Some of that pound cake sounds lovely.

And the hoomans should keep themselves busy and out of the way of their Labrador so that they don't bother it or distract it by rattling the newspaper or taking up too much space on the bed.

Cleaning out the shed would be a good idea. That would keep them busy until it is time to cook and also out of the way. Though they should remember to check on the Labrador from time to time in case she needs anything. Like a back or belly rub.

Savannah - always celebrating "Labrador Day!"

I get to go meet the neighbors tonight.

Tonight Mama is going to go say hi to the new neighbors at the end of the street and I get to go with her to introduce myself. She likes the neighbors to know who we are so they aren't worried when they see us. Mostly because I am so big and Samoa (who is a kissyface mushcake) looks kinda fierce and she wants them to know we are really nice dogs.

And we are.

Most of the time she takes Samoa first, because he is better behaved. But this time I get to go, because I have been a very good girl and it is my turn.

I hope they like dogs. If they have a dog, or if they would get a dog we would have another playmate.

A Pup can NEVER have too many playmates.

Savvy!

No Hurricanes for me, thank you.

It is hurricane season and 'cos that messes all the weather around here on the coast, it is all of a sudden about 20 degrees cooler than last week. That is a good thing, because last week a dog couldn't even move it was so hot.

Dubs could, but nopup else. It is real hard to slow her down, but us larger and more mature pups got kind of lazy from the heat. But now there is a new spring in our step. Samoa and I played some tag this morning and we ran all over the place. Dubs could hardly keep up so she ran under the deck and dug a great big hole in the soft dirt there and came out looking like a mudball.

Then we ran into the front yard and said hi to the kids going to meet the schoolbus. Mama has to watch me around the school bus because last year I tried to get on with the kids. I would LOVE to ride that bus.

Some of the kids scream and one said we were "attacking her" which I wish she wouldn't say, because we are not. We are just bringing heaps of fuzzy love at her. But she WAS laughing, so it was ok.

Before I was born we had an actual hurricane, with the wind and rain and all. Mama says the lights went out for 4 days. And then it got hot and everybody sweated and grumbled and had to eat bologna sandwiches. That part sounds alright, but I don't like to sleep without my little night light. So I hope we don't get a hurricane. Though I would be ok with a bologna sandwich.

Savvy!

Our Friend Samantha...

Or Sam for short. She is a Doberman who lives across the street and appears to be a very nice example of the breed according to Mama. She is long and sleek and very black. We go over to play with her sometimes, because she has no sibs.

Samoa and her run around, because both are fast and like to run. Sam and I wrestle, because I am a champeen wrestler and even a big athletic dog like a Doberman can't budge me unless I wanna be budged.

And Dubs and Sam love each other very much. Dubs runs and jumps at Sam whenever she sees her. Sam grabs her by her little scruff, but very gently, and rolls her over and over.

Dubs loves it and always comes home soaking wet.

Savannah!

Lazy Sunday.

I let Mama sleep until 7 am today. I think that was long enough. Because if she stays in there any longer I have to wait to take my morning walkies. As it is I have to wait until she has a cup of coffee which takes foooooreeeeeevvvvvver. I don't know why she has to have that, it smells terrible.

And then she is still grouchy AND slow. We all have to get our collars and leashes on and sit very quiet and if we jump out of the gate when she opens it we have to start over, which is a real silly thing. Why not just go since the gate is open? I mean, if you wanted to just sit there, you wouldn't need your collar OR your leash OR to even bother to open the gate. Do you understand the reasoning behind this?

I sure don't.

And then...directly where our road comes out on the main road, across the street is a lovely cornfield. I want to run into the cornfield and play hide and seek with Dubs. But no...Mama cannot allow this! We must walk slowly down the side of the cornfield and not even step into it a little bit. And even if a cat runs in or out of the corn, we are not allowed to chase it. One time we did and pulled Mama right over!

Dog, what a grouch.

So finally we get down to the big field around the elementary school where we can go off leash and play tag. That part is ok and today it was better because there was a GIANT puddle of water to run through. Of course, Mama didn't want us to do that, because Samoa had just had a bath. But we did it anyway. Dubs got ALL soaking wet because she is only about 10 inches tall and she rides low. So she was a mess, but who cares? Its Sunday and we can do what we want!

And what we wanted now was some breakfast, but you know how slow a hooman can move? Really slow is the answer and it seemed to take forever to get ours back up the road. We tried to pull her a little faster, and maybe we managed a little, but still she was very slow.

And then...instead of the scrambled eggs we really wanted? We got dog food. I mean, I like dog food but on Sunday I ought to get scrambled eggs don't you think? Why else go to the trouble to get Mama up so early if she is just going to wimp out and open a can of dog food? We ate it anyway. I mean, what is a pup supposed to do?

And then Mama sits down and starts drinking MORE coffee. I tried barking at her to get her up to play, but she kept hiding behind the newspaper and wouldn't move, until I snatched the magazine section and then she got up fast enough.

So we played tag around the table for a while. That was fun. Next I'm going to try to grab the crossword puzzle.

Savvy!

Serving "Sprouts"

We, along with the members of the Roswell Underground, took our "sprouts" out in an attmept to distribute them to affected dogs in the city and among our dear companions. Several of us dressed in white lab coats or cute little waitress outfits in order to offer our "Free Delicious Sprout Samples" in public without suspicion.

Demon and Samoa and I set off for the hotel where our friends were staying to try to get them to eat the disguised chicken liver and be cured. Samoa and Demon went to try to help Angel and Chi-Chi and I went to deal with Dubs and Zaidie.

When I got to their room, I was stunned to see Nanny Beaver sitting on top of the chest of drawers with a broom in her hand, swatting gustily at something that looked like a large, slightly furry sprout. "Take that, you alien beggar!" she shouted and whacked energetically at the object that was stuck to the wall above her head. Dubs and Zaidie sat atop the bed, looking drowsy. "Bugger All!" shouted Nanny Beaver. "Comin' in here with that Alien Mush and making my pups into bloody zombies!"

"Calm down, Nanny" I said. "I believe I have something that will help." I set a plate of the disguised chicken livers in front of Zadie and Dubs. They both picked one up immediately and popped it in their little mouths. Immediately both spit it out again. "Whadfor yu mezzin ub my chicka livva?" asked Dubs. "I no liggem Canny Cuverd!"

"Would you like a plain one?" I asked and both her and Zaidie heartily ate several tasty nuggets of chicken. The cure had worked!

Nanny Beaver set down her broom. "Thank the stars!" she said. "All is well" I replied and we called the hotel staff to clean the alien off the wall and ceiling.

I put in a call to the other Resistance Teams and progress was being made on all fronts! Samoa and Demon had brought Angel and Chi-Chi back and Chi-Chi was already at Resistance Central cooking up a massive feast for the newly recovered (and HUNGRY) dogs.

Dubs and Zaidie and Nanny Beaver and I decided to walk over to the dinner and we held paws and skipped all the way. It is summertime, we are happy and Roswell has been saved!

Love, Savannah!

Our thoughts are with Splash and Sunny...

How they will miss their dear owner. But we can all be glad that Mr. Teddy was with us for a little while and did all the good work he did for hoomans and for pets.

Don't be too sad, Splash and Sunny! Play and be happy - your hooman would want that. And some day you will see him again on the seaside in that place over the Rainbow Bridge.

Savvy!

Squints the Resistance Dog!

Kirby, as usual, had a stroke of genius! He discovered that a secret underground of resistance fighting dogs that were working against the alien introduction of greens into the diets of all dogs.

First, he found carefully disguised signs and we followed it to a courtyard behind some derelict buildings. There we found a tiny, very tiny Yorkshire Terrier hiding under a flowerpot. "They would never look for me here!" he piped after introducing himself. His name was Spiffy and he was part of the Underground Meat-Eating Coalition or UMEC. He and his companions were canines who had determined to fight the alien vegetable diet eating protocol. They had a stash of meaty bones, pork chops, roasts and chicken. And they were willing to share with fellow meat eaters!

After a delicious meal, Demon asked the question "Is there any cure for those who are infected?" and I knew he spoke of Dear Angel and of Dubs and Little Zaidie. I had to wipe a tear of gratitude from my eye as their chief - a dog named Squints said "Yes, but it is difficult. The infected are very meat averse. But they can be cured if they eat one of these." and he held up a fried chicken liver wrapped in bacon.

After sampling them, our crew began to plan how to get Angel and the pups to eat one. "Disguise it as candied sprouts" suggested Samoa and Squints wisely nodded. "That should do the trick."

Now my candy making skills came into play as I rolled out a sheet of Blue Belle's Best Nougat and we began to wrap the liver and bacon bits in the sweet chocolate. "Make them shaped like a sprout." cautioned Squints.

Our work was somewhat hampered by sampling, but at last we finished enough "sprouts" to cure our infected pack members and several dozen other pups that Squints was hoping to convert to resistance forces.

We set out...

(Saturday - do the candy covered "sprouts" do the trick?")
Savannah!

Health Food Diet?

Needless to say, we were anxious for the arrival of our personal chef, Chi-Chi a former cocktail waitress that discovered the art of cooking and became head chef at the Pier, our exclusive pup friendly resort.

But that is another story.

In this story we anxiously arrived at the Roswell Airport in the evening to meet her flight. We had spent the day in our hotel rooms eating stale BK burgers and drinking Evian water. We were very careful not to drink the tap water or to order anything from room service, though the two pups did fuss considerably for their new friend "Bustles" and a Brussel Sprout Sorbet with Asparagus Cookies.

When we arrived at the airport, we were all taken with the number of oddly shaped aircraft - you can see one behind me in my profile picture. They were pretty to look at, no doubt, but still left a disturbing - if you will - ALIEN feeling in our minds.

At last Chi-Chi's flight arrived and we eagerly awaited her at the ramp, thinking of delicious steaks and chicken dishes. And even seafood!

So, needless to say, we were shocked when she came down the ramp and her usual slightly flour tumbled white curls had been dyed an outlandish shade of green! "I have discovered a new Cuisine!" She happily announced. "And I have brought all kinds of delicious vegetables to cook for my friends!" she continued, producing a bag of...produce.

Behind me I could hear Kirby and Samoa moan. "Oh, I will starve if I don't get some protein soon!" Samoa said.

"Let's go hunting..." suggested Demon. "That is a plan" said Kirby "We must hunt for a solution to this disturbing trend. But first - we need to get some REAL food. Follow me!"

(Tomorrow - Kirby resolves the immediate issue)
Savannah!

That's My Hubby!

I have to break off from my exciting tale of brussels sprouts and aliens to announce:

Demon Flash Bandit is a diary pick today.

He is my hubby.

Not to brag or anything.

Savvy!

Green or Greener?

After the pups had finished their rather unappealing lunch we ventured forth into the town to see what other activities we might enjoy on a light snack of Peanut Butter crackers. Plainly, we would have to wait until our French Chef arrived in order to get a good meal.

Roswell is a pretty town, with (as I noticed) a decided greenish cast to things. Buildings, clothing, hoomans and even the dogs had a sort of verdigris complexion.

Before long I realized that most of my companions did as well. It showed up most plainly on the lighter colored dogs or on the white parts of dogs who had white parts. Angel, Demon and Samoa were still dark with a bright green bosom and underpinnings where once they had been white. Same with little Dubs who was now an interesting combination of rust color and mint green. Her little friend Zaidie who is a West Highland White, was altogether grass green and even seemed to be glowing a bit.

I myself was a rather startling shade of greenish gold, due to my original complexion of yellow fur.

As we walked along we noticed that all the shop signage and street names seemed to refer to vegetables - of the green variety. There was a playground on Brussels Street, a Movie Theater on Kale Ave. and a Snack Bar, featuring Vegetarian Pizza on Slaw Boulevard.

I was about to say something of this to Samoa and Demon when all of a sudden, Samoa turned to me and said "You know, Vegetarian Pizza does not sound TOO bad." I had to agree, but tried to explain to him my growing suspicion that consuming Roswell Style Fare was not a good idea.

(Tomorrow! The French Chef Arrives!)
Savannah!

Brussel Sprouts in High Demand.

I was stunned when little Dubs and Zaidie told me that they did not want the rest of their brownies, or any of the lovely sweets I had put in the hamper to make the day pleasant for them! In fact, they said they would like a nice dish of vegetables, Brussels Sprouts in particular. "With Chocolate Syrup?" I asked, but no was the answer. Together they said: "We want to have a healthy diet. We want to eat Brussels Sprouts, Aunt Savvy!"

Well, plainly my usual food preparations were not going to suffice. After the scare from Samoa's pranks (he also pretended to disappear completely for a few minutes and then reappeared wearing a silly looking Derby Hat!) we gathered the pups together and headed for the Roswell All Natural Nothing But Sprouts Bar and Grill.

The puppies happily climbed into a booth and ordered grilled Sprouts and a Sprout Smoothie. The rest of us had a glass of water and a few brave dogs decided to try the Sprout Bones and Biscuits platter, but I noticed most of it was left on their plates.

Angel managed to eat more than some, and that may have been because she had wisely packed Bacon Bits in her handbag and sprinkled them liberally on top of her dish. Samoa looked concerned. "Do you think that much greenery is...well...good for you, My Dear?" he asked.

I noticed that Dubs had begun on the leftovers on Samoa's plate.

The waitress came over, and I asked her if she could suggest another place for dinner - perhaps one which served Meat? She said that she believed MOST of the local diners specialized in Sprouts, and some might serve...asparagus.

Hmmn. Obviously we need to send for a cook of our own, and I called Dear Chi-Chi our own personal French Chef. She said she would take a noon flight and be with us in time for dinner. What a relief! In the meantime we ate some peanut butter crackers and prepared to inspect the town more closely.

(What else is in Roswell...Tomorrow!)
Savvy!

Saucer, no gravy...

As we stood looking at the dimly glowing bowl shaped object, I could feel the hair on my back rise slightly. I glanced at little Dubs and her pal Zaidie and noticed that they were quite thoroughly bristled up. Zaidie's white fur was quite on end!

Samoa and Angel moved in a little closer to the object, pushing each other playfully towards it. "You first!" giggled Angel, "No, after YOU my darling!" laughed Samoa.

"Wait!" said Demon sternly and all the pups froze. "Is this object entirely safe?" "Our Scientists have completely inspected it." proclaimed the Official Looking Dog who greeted us.

"Dubs No Lak!" exclaimed Dubs, taking Zaidie by the paw and walking to the side of the room furthest from the glowing bowl. "No Lak! No gunna go neer!" I handed the two of them some brownies from the picnic basket and asked them to sit quietly.
Samoa snagged a brownie and tried to make Angel eat it. The two of them scrambled around the room and drew closer to what I can only guess, was a genuine flying saucer.

"Look out!" I shouted, but too late. Samoa had carelessly backed up onto a slanted ramp that ran up the side of the bowl. As he stepped onto the ramp, the bowl grew brighter and started to hum. Samoa turned to face the bowl and suddenly yelped "OH! THE GLOWING EYES!" and then seemed to fall backwards from the ramp. He landed at Angel's paws and she knelt over him.

"Are you ok? Sweetheart?" she said. "The eyes, the eyes!" Samoa mumbled as we crowded round him. Angel looked distraught. Suddenly Samoa jumped to his feet and yelled "Gotcha!" and started to laugh. Angel punched him in the ribs again and called him a dummy. The rest of us were quite annoyed at his prank.

But as we turned away I became aware that Little Dubs and Zaidie were sitting VERY still. Both were clutching their half eaten brownies and staring unblinkingly at the bowl.

"Dubs?" I said, and as one the two turned towards me. "We are fine." they said, still unblinking. They spoke together "We are fine. The brownies are delicious, Aunt Savvy. We are fine. We are fine."

"We are fine."

(Taking a long weekend, more on Monday!)
Savannah!

Picnic At Area 51...

We set off early in the morning, after a fresh fruit breakfast and a quick dip in the hotel's pool. Our objective today was Area 51, a mysterious spot in the desert near Roswell.

We had been greeted yesterday by a welcoming parade...the townspups were all wearing crazy costumes and it was a lot of fun. Dubs pulled on the Beak of one Giant Bird Dog and later told me in her baby whispers "Nod a Coztoom, Sabby. Iz weel." She is a comical little missy.

A few of our party were a little skittish, but Kirby promised that we had government passes that he had arranged for through Bo the Presidential Dog. He secured them a while ago when we promised a visit so that we could show Dubs some of the wonderful scientific endeavors that have been achieved. (Kirby acts very paternal towards little Dubs, like a kind uncle!)

So off we went, with a full picnic basket and all comfy in our Deluxe Range Rovers. We had Kirby, Demon and Angel in one car with Samoa and I, and another car had Dubs, Nanny Beaver, Dub's little friend Zadie and a couple of Beaver Porters. When we got to the checkpoint, we were amused to find the Giant Bird Dog - still in costume! - at the gate. He gave us a somewhat discomforting grin, and waved us through. I could see the car behind us and little Dubs pointing at the Bird Dog and telling Zadie something that caused him to yap excitedly.

We soon came to a series of long, low buildings made of some dull stone that closely matched the desert landscape. As we approached a huge gateway opened in the side of one and a dog in an official looking uniform waved us through, into the building. We drove in to the dark coolness.

The door closed behind us, blocking out the desert sun.

The dog in the uniform spoke "I guess you are here for the saucer?" He said. "Not unless it is full of gravy!" Samoa quipped and Angel punched him in the ribs. "Ooooh - Dadda - lug!" Dubs said and pointed into the dimly lit interior of the huge building. Just barely we could make out the outline of a large, blue - bowl like object. It glowed faintly in the murk.

(Tune in tomorrow!)
Savvy!

Roswell, New Mexico.

We are enjoying a lovely visit with our dear friend, Kirby. Kirby, as you are probably aware - is a canine genius and has helped Samoa solve several important mysteries, most recently - the Adventure at the Grand Canyon.

He also cooks a mean BBQ. Not to mention the divine Mojitos!

Anyway, after a visit to a Turquoise Mine where we all enjoyed digging for the lovely blue stones, we visited a Ghost Town with a population of 12. (Ghosts that is!)

Now we are visiting a quaint little town called Roswell. We pulled into town in the Deluxe Range Rovers for a late dinner at a popular Chinese Restaurant. Perhaps I overdid it with the fried Wontons, because I had a most peculiar dream. I seemed to be partially awake and saw an odd blue light coming through the window of Demon and my fourth story hotel room. It wavered on the opposite wall. Also, there was a high pitched chiming sound of some kind that would come and go in a odd rhythm.

Demon lay asleep beside me when the chiming seemed to grow louder and the light brighter. I turned to the window and saw a very peculiar dog peering in at us. I didn't think of it at the time, but I have to wonder - how could an ordinary dog peer in a 4th story window?

Savannah!

Vacation in New Mexico!

Now that we have wrapped up the latest chapter of Samoa's adventures, we are enjoying kicking back here in New Mexico where we are visiting our dear friend Kirby.

We are seeing some exciting stuff! So far we have gone to a turquoise mine, had a Wild West Chuck Wagon BBQ and gone to a Ghost Town and tomorrow we go to visit a nice little place called Roswell.

I wonder what we will see there?

Savvy!

In other news...

While eating my leftover peach pie this morning before setting out for the Skywalk Overlook here at the Grand Canyon, I was taking a minute to read our hometown newspaper. Once I got past the front page with its articles about chickens, corn and tractor pulls I found some REAL news.

Seems a tiny dog named Peanut had fallen into a Canal over at the Ocean Pines community. He had recently moved into the area from Arkansas, where seemingly they do not have canals. His heartbroken hoomans almost gave him up for lost when they found his tiny harness and leash at the canal side.

THEN - two days later, a neighbor found Peanut swimming bravely down the canal and fished him out. He was a little tired, but had apparently cleverly rested on the support beams of the exposed bulkheads.

His grateful hoomans fed him some cheese and tucked him in for a well deserved rest. Brave Peanut!

Also over on the beach side several hooman athletes have been victimized by a mysterious blow-gun shooter. Several have been struck with blow gun darts while cycling or running. No reports of pygmy headhunters have been made, however.

Now it is time to head out with Samoa for todays exciting adventure. I sure hope we catch those villains since I long to go exploring turquoise mines with my handsome hubby Demon and Kirby, a dear friend who we are visiting for a holiday!

Love, Savannah! (Send Peanut some good wishes. I don't think he is a Dogster Dog, but I am sure he will feel us thinking of him!)

Late that night...

Demon and I were snuggled up in our tent. In the tent next to us were Nanny Beaver and Dubs, with Samoa and Angel on the other side of them. In the glow of the dying campfire I could see a few remaining Beavers toasting marshmellows and arguing over blueprints.

Suddenly, between us and the fire a hooman figure loomed. It was a man with old fashioned looking camping clothes on. He had a wide brimmed hat, small round glasses and a large and bristling moustache. He was standing quietly, watching the beavers rustle through their blueprints. One of them held up a image of a scaffolding supporting some kind of cliffside structure. The beaver gestured and said - "I found the barrel of Dill Pickles right here."

At this, the hooman turned away. He seemed to be smiling about something. As I watched, he walked toward the trees and DISAPPEARED!

Savannah. (vowing not to eat so much candy before bedtime!)

Back at Camp...

As we arrived in camp, we found that many of our team had already headed in. They gathered round us in surprise at the sight of the huge white bear that we had brought in from the Painted Desert. He was crowded with questions and we soon found ourselves under a shady pine with a cool glass of lemonade while the bear told us his story.

"First" he said "We noticed that there was less and less ice in the sea. Just like it is melting in this glass of lemonade, it was slowly going away."

Samoa shook his head in dismay. "Plainly the work of Palin" he said, exasperated. The bear continued...

"Then we noticed that when summer came, it seemed to come earlier and stay longer. And in the winter, it did not snow as much. Many times there was not enough snow for a good dog race." At this, both Angel and Demon growled faintly. "Finally" the bear continued "We decided to send an envoy south to test the climate and see if we could learn to live in a warmer world."

Kirby had joined the group and was nodding sagely. He was holding the paw of little Dubs, who was eating a cinnamon donut. She offered a bite to the bear, who graciously accepted. "Thanks, little missy." He said.

"I think we should adjourn during the heat of the day" Kirby suggested..."And be ready to exchange ideas at the campfire tonight. Bear, if you would be so kind as to accompany me and this little lady, we will make sure you are comfortable. I have a few things I would like to ask you about." Kirby continued and the group seperated to nap and prepare for dinner.

Savannah!

Savannah Blue Belle's Dog of the Week-ish.

It has been more than a week, but that Kirby is a hard act to follow. I think this weeks choice is a young lady who deserves many bones and apawse for her perserverence and beauty as well as for her unmatchable sense of humor. The funniest diary in Dogster belongs to this weeks winner:


BEATRIX!

The Painted Desert by Sand Buggy!

Well, I am back participating in Samoa's adventures again. Demon and I set off in the Sand Buggy to investigate the Painted Desert. Since desert=hot we both garbed ourselves in flowing robes with a cleverly concealed self - contained cooling system. (We are both Northern Breeds and don't care for the heat.)

It was all very romantic and sort of Laurence of Arabia like, but without all the fighting.

Imagine our surprise when during our expedition to find Cheney and Palin we came across a very unlikely desert denizon.

It was...a Polar Bear. He obviously sensed our surprise and told us "I am down here for acclimation purposes. If the ice all melts because of global warming, my family is going to have to adapt."

What a sensible bear! But we explained to him that we were - in fact - trying to prevent just that crisis. We explained to him that we were on the trail of Dick Cheney and Sarah Palin, well known for her "Drill Baby, Drill" screeds. At that the bear breathed a huge sigh and asked if he could assist us, and if - we happened to have a spare ice pop as he was growing very warm.

We immediately fitted him with a robe and a cooling system. And offered him a ride in the luggage rack of the Sand Buggy. He accepted and we radioed back to Kirby at Base Camp that we had a passenger who might be able to help us in our quest.

And then off we rolled with a cheer of "Chill Baby, Chill!"

Savannah (heading back to Base Camp)

Last Night I was Quite Naughty!

We all have an after dinner rawhide chewy and frequently we get them mixed up or trade or somepup grabs the chewie away from another one.

At bedtime there was one chewy that still partially remained. Dubs and I got into a dispute over it and I got pretty wild. I started barking real loud and running around jumping on the furniture. Mama came out to see what was going on - she had been in bed - and I ran and ran and wouldn't settle down and barked and then I...growled at her.

It was an accident. I was teasing Dubs by growling and I just got carried away. It made Mama quite angry though and she yelled at me really loud. She doesn't usually do that. She also shook me a little and then I realized that I had been very bad. I tried to apologize, but she told me to BE QUIET and she went back to bed.

I felt bad. A while later, when Dubs dozed off I went in and got on the bed and tried making up by licking Mama's head. It worked. She hugged me and told me to "settle down" and then we went to sleep and this morning we are best friends again.

I like that better.
Savannah!

My Ice Cream Flavor.

Mama says a very long time ago when she was little she was with her Mama and Daddy at a Cookout or Fish Fry. One of the Uncles was making ice cream by hand in an old churn. It was midsummer so they used peaches. It was vanilla with peach.

Mama says it is the most wonderful ice cream that ever, ever was.

That is my flavor - handmade Peach Vanilla.

Savvy

Best of News!

Oh, most unexpectedly we had a wonderful surprise! Demon and Angel reappeared - it turns out they were not kidnapped by Dick Cheney as Samoa expected, but were in mourning for their dear friend, Raju Babu who sadly departed us recently.

I am also very sad about poor Raju. He was too young to go, but we trust he is in a wonderful place now.

Samoa was thrilled to get the message and sent at once for Angel to join him in Washington, D.C. where he is going through the files of the Undisclosed Location in the basement of the White House.

The Ghost of Skip (Teddy Roosevelt's Dog) and Bo, the Presidential Dog are helping him. And now Angel is too! I just got a telegraph that says we should all pack our bags and take the train to Washington to meet them. We are going to the Grand Canyon to try to thwart somebody or others evil plan. That is all too much for me to remember, I have to make sure I have my clothes in order and a couple of nice hampers full of travelling snacks. And Dubs! I have to get her some fresh rompers and sundresses packed. And she needs to keep up with her lessons, so I better take the Nanny along.

And of course, Demon will come with us. I am SO looking forward to a relaxing train trip. If you see us go by, wave and I'll wave back!

Savannah - headed west!

Everyday stuff.

Since Samoa is busy off writing about his adventures and the dangerous attempt to find our friends Demon and Angel, I will content myself with taking long naps and playing with little Dubs.

I will also tell about some of the everyday things that happen while Samoa is off adventuring.

The week before he left on his adventure he scared mama by coming out from under the porch shaking his head real hard and sort of frothing at the mouth. She thought he had been stung by something, a bee or a spider. But he must have just bitten down on something that tasted nasty. Mama grabbed him and forced a couple of Benadryl in, just in case he would start swelling up or something. But he didn't, thank Dog.

Dubs has a little gender confusion. She doesn't know whether she should lift her leg to pee or not. I try to tell her she doesn't need to, but she sees Samoa do it, so she does. It makes us laugh.

She also likes to drink out of the watering bucket, like I do. It is easy for me, because I am very big. She is not, and also she has short legs. So she has to stand on her hind legs and lean way over. But she figured out a way to do it. Mama put the bucket down next to the steps and Dubs can stand with her back legs on the bottom step and put her front feet on the rim of the bucket to drink. It is funny to see. We wish we could get a picture of it.

Hmmn. I am going to call Samoa on his top secret spy telephone and see if he has found Demon yet.

I sure miss Demon.

Savvy!

Am I Blue?

Yes, I am. I don't know where my beloved Demon Flash Bandit is. He has not mailed me for several weeks and he usually writes every day. I know that his other friends have not heard from him either and he hasn't been writing his diary.

Oh, I hope he is ok. I will always be faithful, even though I have been a Heartless Jezebel in the past. But I miss him so. I want to know he is ok.

Sigh.

I went with Samoa to the White House on his quest to discover the secret behind the Cheney/Palin Bots and the whereabouts of our sweeties. We met with Bo and he seems like a very good pup. He and Samoa tucked me in for a nap while they continued the search and Bo arranged for a very nice buffet lunch for me. I can wait at the White House until they come back - hopefully with Demon and Angel.

Bo even said I could play with his little hoomans if I wanted to. They are lovely little girls and I will - just so they don't worry about Bo. I am sure Samoa will take good care of him.

Savannah. Eating Buttermilk Pancakes at the White House.

Grape is a favorite flavor.

Of course, it must be only grape flavor - NOT real grape juice because that is a no-no for dogs.

Now, where was I? Oh - yes. We were trapped in a back room of the Senate Chambers and being menaced by 15 Robotic Cheneys and 15 Robotic Palins. That WAS suspenseful.

Fortunately the weather in D.C. was with us. The heat index was extreme, but the grape soda helped cool us down. The popcorn - oh, wait a minute. I was talking about the Bots.

Ok - they melted. It was too hot for them, and then a tour bus ran over them. Twice. Some passerby on the mall applauded.

Samoa and I stopped for a snack of popcorn and grape soda and then decided to have another corn dog. And some twizzlers which hold up very well on a hot day.

But we still have to discover - where are our Sweeties? Has anypup seen Demon Flash Bandit or Angel Zoom Smokey?

We miss them lots. Any number of Cheney Bots shall not stand in my way! I need my blue eyed husky sweetie!

Savannah (to be continued!)

No more prune danish for me!

In horror, I reeled back and clutched at Samoa as I did. I pulled him with me and we backed rapidly out the door and away from the advancing Cheney/Palin horror!

My mind reeled - probably as a result of too much sugar in the danish. It goes to a girls head, you know. I knew it was essential that I clear my mind to deal with the emergency at hand.

Popcorn! I thought to myself. Some salted popcorn would be just the thing. Using my superior size and strength, I dragged Samoa along with me, down the corridor and out a side exit. Across the sunlit mall, a snack cart was shining along side the lovely green lawn. What a vision of peace and tranquility. What a contrast between its innocent splendor and the horror behind us in the Senate Building. Samoa and I ran towards it. Though my whole being was intent on the snack cart and on the curative popcorn I hoped to acquire, I heard Samoa gasp..."They must be...stopped!"

Savannah
(tomorrow - can we stop them?)

Oh, My! Actual Life Threatening Violence Ensues!

As the bullets flew, I watched my half eaten prune pastry go "splat" on to the highly polished marble floor. It landed sticky side down of course, and then in the flurry of excitement as the door swung wide, I inadvertantly stepped on it. I slid a little and landed on my knees, but this was a good thing, as all the bullets flew cleanly over my and Samoa's heads.

I shrieked aloud and barked several most unladylike exclamations before I was able to regain my self control. Then as I grew calmer and got the last of the prune goo licked up, I noticed Samoa standing rigidly, facing into the room with the attitude of a dog who is gazing at the devil himself.

I turned swiftly and saw: A grim looking older man with eyeglasses and a permanent sneer. And an attractive hooman woman with a stylish hairstyle and a "perky" attitude. She was talking, but so rapidly that I more or less tuned her out. "Samoa" I said: "What is it?"

"Quail Hunter and Moose Killer" Samoa replied, his eyes grimly fixed on the pair.

"Oh, dear. "I replied.

The Moose Killer was still gabbling on about Wasilla Alaska and The American People and Our Founding Fathers and Salmon Fishing when Samoa suggested that for suspense building storytelling, we should not say what happened until tomorrow!

(more tomorrow, Savannah!)

Four Star Snack Stand!

One of the interesting things about Washington D.C., is that they have conveniently put rolling snack stands on almost every block of the big central mall. This is a huge, grassy area surrounded by all sort of important buildings. I wanted to visit the Museum of Natural History and see if the Gift Shop had any Dinosaur Bones for sale. (Or if the snack cart out front possibly offered Dino-Ribs!) But Samoa was in a big hurry and I had to limit myself to 3 corn dogs, a lovely plate of fries and catsup and a strawberry milkshake.

We attached ourselves to a tour group headed for the Capitol Building. I broke out the supply of Beef Jerky as we joined the line. Just before we reached the destination, I managed to get a delightful glass of lemonade, because the jerky was a little salty. Great chewing texture, though.

By the time we reached the impressive Senate Chambers, I was longing for a donut, but dessert would have to wait. As a hush grew over our tour group, Samoa let out a blast with his Quail Whistle and all kinds of trouble broke out! The tour group scattered, bowling over several important looking men in dark suits with red ties. I was afraid they might be Senators but Samoa said - "no, it is only the press!" And off we ran after a figure who peered from some curtains and then ducked away down a long marble corridor. The walls of the corridor reminded me of fudge ripple, and I continued to long for a sweet snack. Fortunately, I tripped over a tray that was sitting on the floor next to a big double door. When I knocked the lid off I realized it was covered with tasty danish so I snagged a few and we ran on.

We suddenly came to a big, stout and double locked door. Both of us could sense movement behind it - the sound of a hooman panting for breath. Samoa tested the lock, but it was firm. "Wait a second" he said. "I have an idea!"

Savannah
(more adventures to come!)

My Flame Orange Protective Gear is very becoming!

Samoa and I set out, stopping for a short nosh of jelly bread, deviled eggs and chicken nuggets. I had a refreshing swim while he checked on our potential targets. Then we stopped at a really sweet little hunting supply store where we outfitted ourselves in darling little orange vests and hats. (A suggestion from some dear dogster friends who want us to remain safe while searching for our sweeties!)

I also picked up several pounds of excellent beef jerky to replenish our supplies. We shared a Dr. Pepper and then hit the road again. Before long we got to Washington, D.C. where Samoa's Investigations led him to believe that Dick Cheney was hiding.

"How are we to locate him?" I asked.

Samoa merely held up a small metal whistle of some kind and said "Quail Calls. He can't resist them."

(more tomorrow!)

Another Adventure!

Samoa is, as usual, all disturbed. But this time he may have real reason to be. We haven't heard from our sweeties for almost a week now. It is true, it COULD be computer issues, but there are suspicious circumstances. At any rate, until we know better, I will go with Samoa's plan and head off with him on his rescue mission. We are going to leave Little Dubs behind with Mama, because watching over a prankish puppy might slow us from our efforts to find and rescue Demon Flash Bandit and Angel Zoom Smokey.

Samoa - he is the brains of the operation. And my job is to charm and lull the suspicions of any likely villain. Also to body check real hard, should the opportunity present itself.

Samoa feels that they may be in the clutches of his Arch Villain, Dick Cheney. If this is so, obviously the need for haste is...well - obvious!
So I am just going to pack a little hamper with some jelly bread and perhaps some chicken nuggets. In case we need a snack while doing our rescuing duty.

Now, I wonder what sort of dress a Labby should wear on a rescue mission? Maybe my camouflage tea gown?

Yours in acts of daring danger,
Savannah!

Sneaky Little Sister!

Samoa is a sneaky dog, he often steals my toys and bones. And he is teaching Dubs to be the same way. Their techniques are different. Samoa sits very still and appears to be asleep and then when I start to doze off myself, he quickly reaches across and grabs my goody.

Dubs is still learning and her technique is to try to appear all sweet and innocent. She will come sideling up to me all tail wagging and sweet faced and pretend to be looking somewhere else. And then when she is close enough she throws herself down on top of my treat and squeals if I try to get her off.

I don't get in trouble, though. Mama saw her doing it. Mama also saw Dubs steal her gardening gloves and bury them under the hosta. Poor hosta.

Dubs thinks it is very funny and she is getting away with it right now because she is overwhelmingly cute. Cute is a weapon and she uses it well.

Savvy, treatless but amused.

Did Dogs Invent Air Conditioning?

I'll bet they did. Because the hoomans are always saying that they will turn it on "when it gets a little hotter." Well, I have to tell you it is hot enough for this pup! To be fair, I will admit that they turn it on most days. But what I don't understand is why do they turn it OFF in the first place?

And the switch is way up on the wall where even I can't reach it and I am pretty big. What I am thinking is that we could build a stack of doggies with Samoa on the bottom and Dubs on top of him, she would probably be able to turn it on. I could stand by and supervise. (I don't want Samoa standing on my back and Dubs would tickle!)

And my personal pack of hoomans are so forgetful that they would think they had a) turned it on themselves, or b) forgotten to turn it off.

Because there is nothing better than stretching out on the old linoleum and basking in the cool, cool air!

Savannah (likes to be comfy!)

My Choice for Pup of the Week!

I know you have all been waiting for this! And it was hard, as always to choose a REALLY outstanding pup among so many wonderful friends.

But I know a lot of you have met and love the incomparable KIRBY!

You are this weeks winner, Kirby dear!

Daffodilly!

Everypup go visit my luvly pal Daffodil! She is sort of new to Dogster and is having some little trouble with her manners - not on Dogster, but in learning those ridiculous things that our hoomans expect from us.

Visit her, be her friend and tell her we have all been there ourselves! I know I have!

Love, Savannah!

2 Bath Weekend.

I don't mind a bath, really I don't. But I think 2 in a weekend is a little much. But just the other week I had a bath 3 days running.

See, I got a little hot spot issue. The main place is not getting any worse, but not really going away. I got some other spots, but Sulfadene cleared them up nicely.

Then this weekend, Mama gave us all a bath with Oatmeal-Aloe shampoo. It worked really well on Samoa and Dubs, but it made me all itchy. (Mama says maybe she didn't rinse me enough because I was twisting her arm out of its socket. Thats right, it was MY fault!)

So today I got ANOTHER bath with the Sulfadene. Now I feel better. Ah, the price of beauty.

Savannah.

Controversy over rawhide chewies.

I get one, Dubs gets one and Samoa gets one. Samoa gets the biggest one because he is a more aggressive chewer. I get the second largest one, because I am very large. Dubs gets a little one, like a potato chip 'cos she is little and it takes her longest to chew them up.

Samoa still finishes first and then he looooks at me while I try to eat mine. This makes me nervous so I bark. And when I bark, sometimes Dubs slips in and takes mine. It doesn't matter if she still has one, she likes to take mine.

And this is just not fair.

Also, if I have to go look out the door or something, when I get back my chewie is gone. And Samoa and Dubs are both suspects. Samoa can get a whole chewie in his mouth and look like he has nothing. And Dubs will lay on top of them to hide them.

So don't ask me why I bark. I have my reasons.

Savvy.

Ah, summertime...

I am really enjoying the warm weather this year. I think the fact that Mama robbed a bank (she says!) and got central air installed has made a big difference. It doesn't seem as bad or as hot when you know you can get out of it.

Lately we have been having our exercise in the backyard because the roads are too hot to walk on. Sometimes we DO take a walk early or late when it is a little cooler, but mostly we just go out in the yard, under the shady trees and play Tag. There is also a chair that swings that I love to climb into and relax. It sways back and forth, Mama helps it sometimes, and Dubs likes to lie under it and dig. She is often a mudball, but Mama doesn't seem to mind.

After a while, we go back inside and have a nice cool rest.
Savvy! (a happy dog)

We stage a sit down strike...

We had a lovely walk yesterday morning, and Mama let us run around the open part of the yard twice yesterday. Then is was time for our afternoon walk. It was still quite hot. Mama leashed us up and we all walked to the corner. I wanted to go north and head for the pond. But Mama wanted to go south and head for the school yard. So we did. But after we walked about a block I decided I didn't want to go on a walk after all.

I looked at Samoa. He didn't either. So I lay down in the grass and rolled on my back. This is how I tell Mama "I am not going." Often, she doesn't get it right away but will tug on the leash and say "Up, Savvy - Walk."

But if I am patient with her it does dawn on her eventually. And this time Samoa helped too - HE lay down in the grass and rolled over.

Dubs hasn't learned this yet, and being a puppy she is all go-go-go, but where she wanted to go was in the ditch, and dig a hole. So she did that while we waited for Mama to catch on.

In time, she did. And we went back home. She let us stroll around the yard a little and then we went back inside where it is nice and cool.

Savvy!

A Festive Fourth!

I had a real good time yesterday. I got to go swimming and also to lick and kiss a hooman baby. I love to lick them, they taste like cookies. This one wanted to hug me so I washed him real good all over the head and most of his arms. Very pleasant.

I also got part of a piece of chicken and a toasted roll that fell down.

Today, I might get a leftover hamburger and some potatoes.

I don't like the fireworks much, but after they are done the school field where they shoot them off is full of interesting smells from where all the people walked, stood and dropped stuff - including food!

Plus, for some reason Samoa would not eat his new peanut butter chewy so when he wasn't looking I helped him out by taking it. I have it hidden in my blankee and will eat it later.

Savvy!

Savannah's Pick for Super Dog(s) of the Week!

I have decided to start giving out my own award for the loviest dogs in my pal pack.

The winners this week are the charming pair of Hartford and Winston! Guys! Love you! (I am, as usual, outta zealies so putting your lovely faces on my page!)

A new winner (or pair of sibs) will be announced every weekish. Keep an eye open, pals! You could be next!

Big Savvy!

Bird Bath Race Course...

Dubs and I played tag this morning out in the unfenced part of the yard. We can do this as long as we come back to Mama when she tells us to. We do, mostly. Samoa doesn't, but he comes back eventually.

Anyway, we have our own racecourse out in the side yard under the pear tree. It is nice and shady and all soft dirt. In the center is the tree with a birdbath underneath it and a giant fern. So it is green and moist and shady. Just right for tag.

We race and race around the tree and if we need to we can stop and drink out of the birdbath. (Mama says no, but we do!) Dubs is so small she can fit right into the birdbath and have a nice cool soak.

And then get up and run some more.
Savvy!

Get a little sister (If you don't already have one!)

Little Dubs is my best friend and playmate. I think everyone should have a baby girl to play with and take care of. It IS true, I get a little jealous when she sits in Mama's lap, but Mama takes care to give me cuddles and little Dubs is SO cute.

When we go on walkies and get off leash, her and I play tag. She is very fast, and can go under things and hide so I hardly ever catch her. When I do, I carefully roll her around so she knows I can - but I don't pinch or hurt her. And she bounces right up and runs again!

She has a lot of energy and wants to play all the time. Sometimes she just plays with toys and leans up against me while I nap. She respects that Samoa and I need naptimes.

She sleeps with one or the other of us at night, and it is pleasant to wake up and feel that little ball of fur tucked under a leg or chin. So dear.

When we are out in the field, she mostly stays with me and Mama while Samoa goes scouting for turtles. Sometimes we sit in the shade to wait for him until he has thoroughly checked all the ditches and weeds.

And then we all walk home together. We make a nice family.

Savannah!

3 bath weekend.

And to lots of dogs, that would be a BAD thing. But I love getting wet. I prefer to jump in creeks, ponds, ditches or the ocean. But baths are better than nothing. And I have to say, it does make me feel all light and happy.

I have been getting washed with the none too sweet smelling Sulfadene shampoo. It smells like bug spray, but it is helping my condition clear up. And THEN after two baths, Mama thought I was getting hives again! From the shampoo. (I have a sensitivity to flea dips and stuff) but she kept a watch on me, and it seems I am ok. So I got ANOTHER bath and it upset Samoa because he was afraid that he would have to have one too. He hates baths, even though I have taught him not to mind swimming. He is supposed to be half Labrador, but sometimes I have my doubts.

Auntie Grandma says that the Adoption Societies always say the dogs are part Labrador because then everybody thinks they will be sweet. I guess Samoa IS sweet, Mama says so. But I am not sure he is a Labbie. He looks good with short hair, though - even though he is embarrassed by it. It makes his legs look real long. Like a race horse, except he is a dog.

I guess a dog doesn't need long legs to run fast, though. I mean look at Dubs. Her legs are about 4 inches long and she runs like a jackrabbit.
It makes me dizzy. I think I will get another nap until Mama comes home and then maybe we can get her to fix us an egg with hot dogs.

Sigh. Life IS good!
Savvy!

Very Refreshed!

Mama brought home a bottle of Sulfadene medicated shampoo. She doesn't like it, and in the past has not found it to be very helpful. But she gave me a bath last night and today I feel much better. I still have hot spots, of course - they don't just disappear - but I am not chewing anymore and got a good brushing this morning and think I am on my way to better.

One of the problems is that I have...well, jowls. Seems unladylike, but there you are. So when I get wet, sometimes parts of me stay wet due to the folds of extra skin. Mama has to be careful to dry me thoroughly and often. And since I can get soaking wet with about a teaspoon of water to work with, she has to keep vigilant.

But feeling better now and good words for the Sulfadene this time. Also we need to put a good word in for Fels Naptha which helped clear up Mama's freakish poison ivy and some itchy spots that Samoa had.

High grass and High water= Life in the itching lane!
Savannah!

Poor Savvy!

Her golden beauty is currently marred by some uncomfortable hot spots. Mama is caring for her and making sure all is ok. We keep our big girl comfy and happy.

Dubs and Samoa are both being EXTRA well behaved so that Savvy can rest and recover.

Who is Savannah Blue Belle and what is she really like? (I- get a quiz to answer!)

1. What color is your collar? It is Dark Green and it has a special “sleeve” on it which has my name and my Mama’s phone number. I am always losing my tags and with this sleeve I can keep my id right in view! It is fancy letters in green and yellow! I feel so special wearing it!

2. What kind of food do you eat? Evo and Innova.

3. What are your favorite treats? Cheese, Cheese, Cheese!

4. Do you have a Valentine or significant other? My true love and hubby, Demon Flash Bandit!

5. Do you get Table Scraps? Well, yes. In that sometimes Mama cooks for us. Stuff like Turkey and Rice or Eggs and Hot dogs. Yum.

6. What is your favorite toy? I like that toy that Dubs has right now. That has always been my favorite.

7. When is your Birthday? Samoa and I both figure we were born on Sept. 28th. I really was, and he might have been.

8. How many times a day do you get to eat? I get Beffus and Dinner.

9. Do you have a favorite color? Green, it looks so nice with my yellow fur!

10. Do you hope all your pals put this in their diary? It is a great way to get to know each other – And it is fun!

Miss Peach Pie 2009!

I have the honor of being selected as Miss Peach Pie 2009. I have promised not to make any "controversial" remarks, but can't answer for Samoa. Or Dubs - most of the time I have no idea WHAT she is saying, but it might be controversial.

My duties include smiling brightly, eating pie and riding on a float with a peach colored gown on and waving to the happy, pie eating crowds.

This doesn't seem too difficult. I guess if I were to blurt out something like "I prefer cheesecake" I could cause some trouble, but in fact - any kind of pie is ok with me.

After the parade we are going to be holding a yard sale and Peach Festival at Samoa's Pondside BBQ Bar and Sea Serpent Sighting Pier. Samoa is working on a Peach Flavored BBQ sauce, or at least he has told the chefs to make one. And there will be Peach Upside Down Cake, Peach Ice Cream, Peach Tarts, Peach Taffy and Peach Pie. Also Peach Flambe, Peach Fritters and Peach on a Stick.

I wonder if there WILL be any cheesecake?
Savannah!

An Inky Adventure!

One of my hobbies is chewing on ball point pens. They are often left in easy to reach places and have a most satisfying crunch when you bite gently, but forcibly on them.

I found a lovely one yesterday evening. Sort of a transparent turquoise, it was prettier than most and had an intersting little rubbery grip on it that made it more fun than most ball point pens. I savored it, crunching it slowly, but firmly. The little rubber bit was nubbly and chewable. When the pen finally shattered it did so with a pleasing "crack" and pieces went everywhere.

This was when the trouble started. Dubs was nearby and watching and when the part of the pen with the ink in it shot her way, she grabbed it and before I could warn her she bit into it hard!

Ink went everywhere. Dub's little white chest and legs were marked. A huge bloom of purplish black appeared on the floor. Startled, Dubs rose to her feet and ran around the room, leaving little inky footprints everywhere!

Just then, Mama came back into the room. I froze and gave my best "totally innocent" expression. Mama looked at me. She looked at the fragments of pen. She looked at Dubs and just sighed.

The end result was that Dubs had her feet washed, but they are still bluish. The floor got wiped up with "409." I was told (once again) to LEAVE THE PENS ALONE!

But of course, I won't. Who could?
SAvannah!

Sunshine and Light for me, dear pups!

OK, enough of the ghost stories for right now. I am feeling very light and happy since it finally stopped raining and I have mostly dry fur for the first time in more than a week.

Last night we walked out to the pond and Dubs and I jumped in for a quick refresher while Samoa searched the area for turtles and frogs. He didn't find any. He is getting altogether too single minded about these creatures. For a long time he has had the habit of sleeping with his eyes open and now he seems to be sleeping in a semi upright position poised to blast out the door at the slightest sound of a ribbit. (I don't know what kind of sound turtles make.)

We had some ice cream yesterday and those delightful freeze dried chicken strips that taste SO good and look like road kill. A treat for the all the senses!

Little Dubs has been helping me clean my feet by nibbling on the nails. I exchange the favor by grooming her little bald belly for her. She likes that. I am very glad we adopted again. Samoa is a great companion, but I love having a baby to play with. And Dubs is so little she will always seem like a baby to me!

Tonight we are going over to the big baseball field to play fetch before dinner. I like that because it has big trees all along the edge and I can get some shade when I need a break. And soon I am going to go on a playdate with my charming new dogster pal, Macenzy! She lives not far from me and we are going to meet and have a lovely get together! Won't that be nice?

Savannah!

A Tribute to the Hot Dog...

Some sizzling Hot Dogs
Char pleasingly on the coals;
Eat them and be glad.

(I grabbed this from somebodies blog. Should give credit, but like any self respecting dog, I eat and run!)

Savvy!

The White Dog...

There is a ghost that walks along the coastline on foggy nights. She is called the White Dog. People say she is a Ghost-Dog – the fancy pure bred pet of a woman who used to own much of the land on that stretch of the coast. And that she has returned to keep watch over her mistress’s land. Others disagree. The claim that the glowing white figure of the ghost-dog appears resembles a cloud of mist. They think the “ghost” is an illusion of the fog covered rocks.
Travelers encountering the ghost-dog on foggy nights say that she looks very sad and lonely, as if she were about to howl. They see her walking slowly along the road, her shoulders drooping a bit as if she were carrying a heavy burden of grief or pain. When they draw close to her, she disappears.
One night, a courting couple went out to sit on the rocks overlooking the sea. It was a bright night, and they were whispering together and watching the moonlight sparkle on the water when the White Dog appeared right before their eyes. As they watched in astonishment and fear, she walked passed them, her form glowing in the moonlight. Slowly, her face set and sad, she wandered down to the beach. Then she vanished into thin air. Needless to say, that was the last time that couple went courting at the White Dog’s Haunt!

The Golden Paw...

There was once a dog who travelled the land all over in search of a pup-wife. He saw young and old, rich and poor, pretty and plain, and could not meet with one to his mind. At last he found a bootiful cocker spaniel, young, fair, and rich, who possessed a right paw of solid gold. He married her at once, and thought no dog so fortunate as he was. They lived happily together, but, though he wished other dogs to think otherwise, he was fonder of the golden paw than of all his pup-wife’s gifts besides.
At last she died. The husband- dog put on the blackest black, and pulled the longest face at the funeral; but for all that he got up in the middle of the night, dug up the body, and cut off the golden paw. He hurried home to hide his treasure, and thought no one would know.
The following night he put the golden paw under his pillow, and was just falling asleep, when the ghost of his dead pup-wife glided into the room. Stalking up to the bedside it drew the curtain, and looked at him reproachfully. Pretending not to be afraid, he spoke to the ghost, and said: “What hast thou done with thy tongue so red?”
“All withered and wasted away,” replied the ghost, in a hollow tone.
“What hast thou done with thy bright, bright eyes?”
“All withered and wasted away.”
“What hast thou done with thy golden fur?”
“All withered and wasted away.”
“What hast thou done with thy Golden Paw?”
YOU HAVE IT!

EEEEEYAAAAAHHHH!

Stay Away From Pupsberg!

There once was a crazy ghost over Pupsberg way that got dogs so plumb scared that nopup would stay more than one night in its house. It was a nice old place, or was, until the ghost began making its presence known. It got so no one would enter the house, not even terriers on a dare, and you know what they are like!
Now when my friend Jo-Jo heard a fancy old house in Pupsberg was selling dirt cheap, he decided to go have a look. He asked me about it and I told him about the spook, but Jo-Jo just laughed. "I don't believe in ghosts," he said and went to visit the agent Beagle selling the house.
Well, the agent Beagle gave Jo-Jo a key, but refused to look at the old house with him, which should have told Jo-Jo something. But Jo-Jo’s a stubborn bulldog who won't listen to reason. He even waited until after dark to visit the house for the first time, just to prove his point.
Jo-Jo got to the house around nine p.m. and he entered the front hallway. It was a large entrance and well-proportioned, but neglected-looking, with creepy cobwebs and dust everywhere. As Jo-Jo paused near the door to get his bearings, he heard a thump from the top of the staircase facing him. A glowing leg appeared out of nowhere and rolled down the steps, landing right next to Jo-Jo’s feet. Jo-Jo yelped out loud and stood frozen to the spot. An arm appeared and rolled down to meet the leg. Next came a foot, then another arm, then a hand. Glowing pieces of body kept popping into existence and plummeting down the steps towards Jo-Jo.
Jo-Jo held his ground a lot longer than anyone else ever had, but when a screaming head appeared at the top of the steps and started rolling towards him, Jo-Jo had had enough. With a shriek that could wake the dead - those that weren't already up and haunting the house that is – Jo-Jo ran for his life; out of the house, out of the street, and right out of town, leaving his car behind him.
He called me the next day and asked me to drive his car down to the hotel where he had spent the night. Jo-Jo was headed back to the Big City and refused to come within fifty miles of Pupsberg ever again. The agent gave up trying to sell the house after that, and the house fell into ruin and was eventually torn down.

Eeeeeeeyaaaah!

Another Campfire Story!

Sweet Molly...

Caninesville was a nice place -- at least that is what the Dogs who lived there said. The dogs who grew up there liked it so much, they nearly always chose to stay there to raise their own pups.

Caninesville had all the comforts of a big city, but dogs always knew their neighbors. When you walked down the street, somepup would always smile and ask how you were doing.

Jack was one of Caninesville's citizens. Everyone in Caninesville knew him and everyone liked him.

Jack had a lot of friends. Jack would spend most of his time playing frisbee, flyball, or tag with his friends. But he did not have a friend that he could just talk to.

That's when he met Molly.

It happened quite by accident. Jack was sitting under a tree in front of the library, daydreaming as usual. He spotted a girlpup sitting on the bench by the bus stop across the street. She was wearing a party dress and looked like she had been waiting there for quite a long time.

"That's the prettiest girlpup I've ever seen," Jack said. Jack wanted to introduce himself, but girlpups always made him nervous. He never seemed to say any of the right things. Finally, he gathered his courage.

Jack reached the bench and sat down. The girlpup kept staring straight ahead. Jack could feel his heart thumping in his chest.

"Hello," he said shyly.

The girlpup did not answer.

"My name is Jack," he continued.

Then Jack lightly brushed the girlpup’s shoulder. Suddenly, she came to life. She turned to look at Jack. He could see a touch of fear in her eyes.

"Hello," she said softly, "my name is Molly."
Jack saw that Molly was shivering in the cool autumn air, so he gave her his letter jacket. They sat on the bench for a long time. Jack did all of the talking. Molly just smiled and offered a few kind words.

The hour grew very late. Jack walked Molly home. When Jack stopped in front of her house, Molly leaned over and gave him a quick peck on the cheek. Jack watched Molly walk to the front door. Before Molly went into the house, she turned, looked at Jack, and smiled. It was the sweetest smile Jack had ever seen.

The next morning, Jack picked a small bouquet of dingo bones and went to Molly's house. A small old lady dog answered his knock. When Jack asked if he could see Molly, the old lady dog looked startled.

"Molly?" she asked.

The old lady dog looked at Jack carefully. Finally, she said, "Please come in."

The old lady dog pointed to a picture on the mantle.

"Is this the girlpup you spoke with last night?" she asked.

"Yes," he replied.

"I am Mrs. Sweet -- Molly's mother," she said. "Molly died almost twenty years ago."

Jack did not believe what he was hearing.

"Everybody liked Molly," said Mrs. Sweet. "She'd meet someone for the first time and talk to them like she'd known them forever. This house was always full of her friends, laughing 'til all hours," Mrs. Sweet paused. "You're not the first pup to tell me that you've seen her. I like to think that she's close."

Jack was shocked.

"It's true, Jack," said Mrs. Sweet. She paused and wiped away a tear. "Mary is buried in the Caninesville Cemetery."

Jack left Molly's house and ran until he reached the cemetery. When he saw the letter jacket that he had given Molly hanging on a tombstone, he stopped short. Then he saw what was written on the tombstone:

Molly Sweet
January 14, 1942 - May 5, 1958

Eyaaaah!

Campfire Stories!

Jane, a French Poodle wore a yellow collar around her neck everyday. And I mean everyday, rain or shine, whether it matched her outfit or not. After a while it annoyed her friend Johnny, a Portugese Water Dog. He was her next door neighbor and had known Jane since she was a pup When he was little he had barely noticed the yellow collar, but now they were in advanced obedience together, it bothered him.
“Why do you wear that yellow collar around your neck, Jane?” he’d ask her every day. But she wouldn’t tell him.
Still, in spite of this aggravation, Johnny thought she was cute. He asked her to the dog park for some playtime. He asked her to walk in the park with him. Then he started seeing her home. And come the spring, he asked her to the big dance. Jane always said yes when he asked her out. And she always wore a yellow dress to match the collar around her neck.
It finally occurred to Johnny that he and Jane were going steady, and he still didn’t know why she wore the yellow collar around her neck. So he asked her about it yet again, and yet again she did not tell him. “Maybe someday I’ll tell you about it,” she’d reply. Someday! That answer annoyed Johnny, but he shrugged it off, because Jane was so cute and fun to be with.
Well, time flew past, as it has a habit of doing, and one day Johnny proposed to Jane and was accepted. They planned a big wedding, and Jane hinted that she might tell him about the yellow collar around her neck on their wedding day. But somehow, what with the preparations and his beautiful bride, and the lovely reception, Johnny never got around to asking Jane about it. And when he did remember, she got a bit teary-eyed, and said: “We are so happy together, what difference does it make?” And Johnny decided she was right.
Johnny and Jane raised a litter of four, with the usual ups and downs, laughter and tears. When their anniversary rolled around, Johnny once again asked Jane about the yellow collar around her neck. It was the first time he’d brought it up since the week after their wedding. Whenever their pups asked him about it, he’d always hushed them, and somehow none of the pups had dared ask their mother. Jane gave Johnny as sad look and said: “Johnny, you’ve waited this long. You can wait awhile longer.”
And Johnny agreed. It was not until Jane was on her death bed a year later that Johnny, seeing his last chance slip away, asked Jane one final time about the yellow collar she wore around her neck. She shook her head a bit at his persistence, and then said with a sad smile: “Okay Johnny, you can go ahead and unbuckle it.”
With shaking hands, Johnny fumbled for the buckle and unclasped it - and...removed the yellow collar from around his wife’s neck.
And Jane’s head fell off.

EEEEyaaaaah!

A Lovely Week of Visits!

Last week our Mama had vacation and we got to make several nice trips. First she took me and little Dubs to see my Fur Mama and Dad. It is so good to see them. They always seem to be so happy. I feel weird being bigger than Daddy but he laughs and said I was always his favorite girl and he likes 'em big! He is a great guy. Mama is very sweet and always kisses me and cries and she loved little Dubs to bits. Dubs got all slobbery and ran around and laughed a lot. She says my fur Mama and Dad are hers too, except she has two dads 'cos the other one is Samoa. (at least I think that is what she said.)

Later in the week we went swimming. I do love to swim and a big river is so much more exciting than our little pond. Though I love the pond the river is more bouncy. And cooler. The water is a good bit colder and I like that but Samoa didn't very much.

Dubs went to see her friends at the hoomane society and they were glad to visit. She thinks they are wonderful because they found her such a nice place to live.

Mama fixed up our backyard like a puppy playground with a tire swing and tuggy ropes and all. It is covered in mulch and I LOVE to roll in mulch. I have a pool and Samoa has a sandpile. Dubs has lots of water toys, so it won't hurt them if they get left out in the rain. We have a bell to ring, but so far we haven't done it. Mama keeps showing us, I think I WILL do it soon.

This past weekend we went to visit our Auntie Grandma and her two dear pups - Maggie and Elle. Samoa's eyes just about popped out when he saw Maggie who is a beautiful golden and collie mix. He is a happily married dog and good thing because I am sure it is not a good idea to marry your cousin. Not that Maggie would say yes to him, I am not at all sure she liked him. He was too silly. Maggie is a refined sort of dog. But we all had a really nice time.

Still, I am glad to be home.
Savvy!

Goodbye, Droopy the Beagle...

Droopy was my cousin. She just went to the bridge yesterday. She was very old. Her peeps got her the same year my Mama got Cotton and poor Cotton has been gone for more than 3 years now. So Droopy hung in there, but now is gone.

She was a good and lucky dog. Now she is fast again and can chase rabbits all day. She has her beautiful spots back (she had turned all white on this side of the bridge.) We will miss her, but we know she is playing and having fun until we see her again.

Goodbye, Good Beagle!
Your Cousin, Savannah!

Samoa Declares War on Birds!

(clipping from local newspaper)

Samoa, also known as Lord of the Birds, has created a path of feathered destruction previously unseen in the area! The count of victims is growing daily. Should local law enforcement officials take action? Your opinion is needed: call the hotline at ***-***-****.

(From Savannah's Diary)

It is getting quite embarrassing to take a walk with Samoa lately, since he often has a bird sticking out of his mouth. He doesn't eat them, only carries them around until they are all draggly looking. I have tried to make a log to show how many kills he has accomplished. So far this year it is 6, if you count the one who flew in front of Mama's car.

V V V V V V

These little graphics stand for bird victims. I will update as the count grows.
Savannah

Barking at Night!

Nothing beats a spring evening with the soft breezes and stars and a good barking session. We have had several good ones lately, though Mama has been increasingly stubborn about letting us out. Sometimes we have to bark IN THE HOUSE.

I am the official barker. Samoa whines and mutters and Dubs just looks hopeful and yips a little. I am capable of a resounding alto bark. One after another, after another, after another. For hours. Days, maybe.

WOOF! (lengthy pause) WOOF! (and so on)

And then we sleep all day while Mama is at work. When she gets home we clamor for walkies and leftovers and tv time and snacks and ins and outs and then catch a quick nap before Mama wants to go to bed so that we can be ready to demand to go outside.

And Bark.

Listen up, you might hear us!
Savannah!

A Really Exciting Night...And Morning.

Last night we barked and barked after lights out. Mama finally came down the hallway grumbling with her hair all sticking out and let us out.

One of the other neighborhood dogs was loose and came visiting and that is why we were barking. It was Samoa's good friend and accidental twin brother, Sombrero. He looks a lot like Samoa, but more bushy since he hasn't had a trim. We spent hours talking through the fence. And finally Mama called us in to bed.

This morning, we went out and Mama was napping over her first cup of coffee and after a while she realized that we weren't yipping and jumping at the door like always. She went out to find us and found the gate open! Of course she then starts hollering her head off. We had only gone up the street a little bit. Dubs went running home and then so did I and finally Samoa. We had been out chasing Sombrero. Mama doesn't know how the gate got open. She is going to start double latching them, so they can't be opened from the outside.

In case some nefarious person is letting us out.

Or maybe it was Sombrero?

Savannah!

This morning's walk...

We went down the dirt road that doesn't get much traffic and if anybody does drive on it they have to go really slow so they don't fall in a hole. I love to walk on that road. We get to go off leash, and right where it starts is a big old dogs house. His name is Wally and he comes out to say hello. Samoa likes him, and Dubs was very sweet and kissed his nose. Wally looked very happy to see a puppy. I guess he likes them. Like a Grandpa would.

The road is nice 'cos it is all shady and sandy and it tickles the toes. And right up near where we turn around it has a big hole alongside it and it is all filled up with water. Nice clear water. Mama says it might be a spring. She lets me swim in it. Well, wade really - it isn't deep enough. But it is nice and cool. Dubs got in too, but Samoa won't because he is afraid of Bullfrogs.

I wish you could come walk there with us!
Savvy!

I enjoy being corrected!

When little Dubs climbs on me, sometimes I growl at her. (Only if I don't want to be climbed on.) The other day I was doing that and then Mama came over and tried to look at my leg. I accidently growled!

Well, she got me by the head and gave me a great big jowl massage and then went all the way down my neck to my shoulders and legs. And then down my back to my tail. I stopped growling right away, because the massage felt so wonderful.

Then Mama brushed me with the de-fluffing brush until I was all sleek and shiny. I was SOOO comfortable that I almost went to sleep. Then I got to sit on the sofa and watch a movie. I don't know what the movie was, 'cos I fell asleep.

Maybe I should try growling again?

Savvy!

Gala Event at the Pier Tonight!

We are having a "Dancing Beneath the Stars Event" at the Pier Planetarium. Costumes can be worn, or Space inspired Formal Wear.

All are invited. Dancing and Dining from a Celestial Menu, plus a showing of the new Star Trek film for you movie buff pups.

(Personally I am going to wear my famous "Nebula" gown. I think that Demon may have a Star Trek Costume, and I would expect that Samoa will come as Han Solo.)

Join us, and dance your cares away among the stars!

Savannah!

Big Girl, Big Love.

I think attention should be awarded by the pound. It only takes a minute or two to thoroughly pet Dubs, she is small. Samoa takes a little longer, he is skinny but leggy and takes up some space.

I am large. I need big love. I need somebody to take me round the neck and massage my jowls. I need a major ear rub. I need a big belly stroking and a toe massage of my back. I want my front legs and my back legs rubbed, especially on the inside where it tickles. And my Tail. I want that scratched and fluffed.

This will all take a while since I am large. But it is only right. There is (as they say) more of me to love!

Savannah!

My Weekend Plans...

I have plans for this weekend.

First, I want to wake up on Saturday and stretch real big. I want to check on Dubs and make sure she has slept well and let her chew on my head a little. Then we could take a walk. Samoa can come along if he doesn't complain the entire time.

THEN. We should all have a big dish of eggs and hotdogs. And I mean a LARGE one - maybe 3 eggs and 3 hotdogs. Each. And then if Dubs can't finish, I will help her.

And then we can lay around - Dubs can chew on Samoa if she wants and I will stay ready to stand up and get in Mama's way when she needs help.

Then her and Grandma can go to the store to buy me more food while I take a nap. When they get back, we should get another walk. Maybe down to the school and run around some.

Then we can rest on the deck while Mama does yard work. Then we can have dinner. And a snack. And maybe watch a movie. (I vote for "Hotel for Dogs.")

And that is Saturday. After all that we go to bed and then get some sleep to get ready for Sunday. Thinking about all this has made me kind of sleepy, so I am going to take a nap. And then I will think of what I want to do on Sunday.

Something with Waffles, maybe.
Savannah!

So confused!

Yesterday I wrote a Diary Entry about how my sibs and I switch breakfast bowls. I got confused and called Baby Dubs "Murphy" which is a nickname Grandma gave her, because she is sassy like Murphy Brown on the old TV show. Clever Kirby caught it and reminded me, so I fixed it. (thanks, Kirb!)

I HAVE been a little confused lately, but it isn't that my dog food has fermented or anything. I think it is Spring Fever.

Lately Mama has started letting us run around the big part of the yard as long as we come back when she tells us to. We do, except for Samoa who always goes right next door to look at the giant rabbit in the hutch there. He is fascinated by that rabbit. Mama went over there this weekend and put some extra sturdy wire on the bottom of the Giant Rabbit's cage to make sure it didn't escape. It had plucked through the chicken wire and was looking like it might have plans. For its own safety Mama fixed it. We never see the neighbor, but I guess they won't mind us securing their rabbit.

Well, anyway - running around loose like that has joggled my brains. All the lovely smells and the nice wet grass and bugs and all. I can hardly see straight. This morning I was skipping around and found a wonderful thing...It was an antler from a deer! Just one, not the pair. And I don't know WHAT happened to the deer, he was nowhere around. I picked it up and carried it a little, but them Mama called and said something about a slice of ham, so I dropped it and forgot all about it. I will go see if I can find it later.

In the meantime, have a lovely day!
Savannah!

Dinner Time Routine...

We have a routine at meal time. We all three get our own bowls of food - mine and Samoa's are large bowls and we get the same kind of food. Dubs has a small bowl and she gets special food for little dogs and puppy chow.

We like to trade places when no one is looking.

I like to move to Samoa's bowl, because I suspect he gets larger servings. He likes to move to Dubs bowl, because he wants to be the baby. And Dubs likes to move to my bowl, because she wants to be a big and beautiful hunk of Labby love.

Sometimes Mama watches us and won't let us trade.

But most of the time we do...

Goodbye to Mulligan...

We have been on Dogster for quite a while now. Since before I came home to live with Mama. I have lots of very cool and funny pup friends. I regret to say that I only met Mulligan today. And now he is gone.

Mulligan, I am sorry I was not your pal. Maybe when your hoomans feel better, we can ask to be buddies. That is probably going to take a while, though.

You seem like a real interesting pup, and your life was too short. Up in heaven past the Bridge look for Cotton and Dixie and Mattie. They live there now too and will be good friends to you.

Missing you down here. Savvy who hardly knew you.

And the rest of the pack. (Samoa and Dubs)

New Friends!

We have several new and lovable friends here on dogster that I would like to say "HI!" to.

First is the DEElightful Beatrix. You have to read her Diary. She is an artist!

Then we have the charming Shelly who looks remarkably like our baby Dubs!

And the lovely and sweet Dion (girl) and her handsome boyfriend Pinto Paint.

And, of course, Dear Zadie!

(A Special Shout out to Darling Bobby, From Jerusalem and Now at the Bridge!)

(Love you Bobby - with all my ears! Cotton

Dubs Enjoys Class!

Dubs is all finished with puppy class and her dad, Samoa and I are very glad. We miss her when she is not here with us. Samoa sat by the back gate all evening and waited for her. He really wants to go to class with her, but can't because he gets carsick.

And we do really wish we could have all gone to this last class, since it was kind of a graduation. Dubs got a certificate and a toy shaped like a frisbee, but stuffed and with a squeaker. She carried it around the rest of the evening and then slept with it. Sometime in the night, Samoa rolled on top of it, but this morning she got it first thing and carried it around some. So I can tell she is proud of herself.

She said she met a new boyfriend and his name is Max. He is a Swedish Valhund and so the two of them are eye to eye and that suits Dubs, who says she is tired of looking up at everypup.

Max gave her a kiss. She says she is now out of puppy class and must get more schooling by going to whatever class Max is in. She needs to get past puppy kindergarten and weird little dogs like that "puvett Dezzer." (I think she is saying "Pervert Dexter" who was a forward little pug in her puppy class.)

Well, both Samoa and I are very proud of her.

Savvy!

Big Honey...

Mama loves me and loves me, even though I am not small and cute, like Dubs. She loves me even though I do not have good manners like Samoa. She loves me even though I jump on the furniture and at doors and on her. I bark in the night and won't go out (or in, depending on what side of the door I am on)

I have strange fears - like flyswatters and teaspoons and yardsticks. I go psycho-nutcase during thunderstorms and try to climb her. I grab things off the table, especially napkins or kleenex which I consider my own personal property. I will even pick kleenex out of pockets.

I like to stage escapes, using my bulk to push past people at the door or at the gate and then sit in the driveway and taunt them. I will NOT be caught!

I am a bad third wheel. I cry if Samoa and Dubs are playing and leaving me out.

I must sit in the FRONT seat while in the car. Preferably in the drivers seat on the drivers lap. I weigh 100 pounds.

I roll in mud. Actually I wallow in mud. I have come home from "short walks" needing to be hosed down and dried before I can be allowed in the house. I will also wallow in other substances should they be available. I enjoy the noises Mama makes when this occurs.

I gobble food, mine or Samoa's or Dubs. I also gobble shoes, blankets, rugs, small objects of furniture and once I ate a ball point pen.

I enjoy pens. I enjoy stealing them from tabletops. Also decorative ornaments or eyeglasses. Picture frames are good, too. I love the CRUNCH!

But Mama. Calls me Honey Love and says I have a Heart of Gold.

She loves me. So do I!

Savannah!

Beauty Sleep.

I try to get a nice long nap after my morning yard inspection. That is very important. We do the yard inspection and then have breakfast and then I move over by the side door to nap so I can hear if anyone comes up the driveway. Usually nobody does so I sleep for a couple of hours.

Sometimes I wake up and do a little jousting with Dubs who takes short naps. I just lie on the floor and she tries to tackle my head and usually dozes off after a while. I like to nap with her tucked under my chin.

All three of us usually go out in the yard at lunchtime to play in the sandbox a little or to check the yard for cats and rabbits. Samoa works the hardest at this, he is very tense at the idea of rabbits in his yard. Dubs and I bark to keep him company and support his hobbies.

After that it is time to see what Grandma is having for lunch. (We usually get a taste.)

Then an afternoon nap until about 4 when we need to start waking up to wait for Mama. She gets in a little after 5 and then we do some heavy wrestling and try to turn over furniture until she tells us to go on the deck. After she eats - we stare through the door at her - we get our evening walk and go to the schoolyard or over to the pond. Then we come back for dinner and a nice nap until bed time.

In the warm weather we sometimes go outside at bed time to enjoy the fresh air. But after a while we bark and Mama comes to bring us back in.

This is my daily routine and as you can see from my latest picture - it does help with keeping a youthful, puppylike complexion.

Savannah.

Decorating Tips Part Three...

A Bed of my own. When I was very little, Mama enthusiastically bought me an enormous bed. I need help to climb up on it at first but soon was able to pile up for lovely naps. Soon I outgrew it. A larger one was purchased and a larger one and finally the largest ones available without buying a mattress sized article were too small. I settled for a blanket to lay on and a bed to use as a pillow.

Then Samoa came along. He considers all toys, food and bedding to be his. I may borrow them FROM him, but they are not mine. So I am always getting bumped because of Mr. Greedyhead.

Then along comes Dubs - small and cute, she has a bed of her very own. Samoa ousts her sometimes, but it is really too small for him so it doesn't do him much good.

I sometimes climb into a chair (too small) or on top of the toy bench (also too small.)

How I long for a bed of my own. Maybe a daybed in the corner - too high for Samoa and Dubs to climb on. A place where I can be above the fray and rest comfortably.

THAT would be the ultimate redecorating feature.

Mama, you listening?

Savannah!

More Tips on Redecorating.

Due to my fondness for mud and water, Mama has recently painted the lower parts of the wall a sort of taupe color to disguise the spots where I leaned on the white wall and made a Savvy imprint. Samoa, who copies me in so many ways has also done some work in this area. Dubs is too small, but she may grow large enough in time.

Mama thinks when the taupe walls get stained, she will do some kind of sponge painting in a slightly darker shade to cover the imprints. I like the idea of that. It will look like dogs have leaned all over the wall. Very tasteful.

Uncle Jimbo stopped by and put together the Iron Table yesterday. I went underneath it to see if there was space for my favorite napping place. Directly under the table, so if anyone drops food it will land on me. I CAN fit, but the pedestal arrangement of legs intrudes on the vertical space, so if I stand up in a hurry I could topple the whole thing. Maybe I will try that on Sunday as Mama still does a big dinner on Sundays being sort of set in her ways. Chicken Gumbo this Sunday, so I hear.

Mama found a wonderful item in the hardware store that covers scratches on wood surfaces. This is good because Dubs is always scratching things, including Grandma. It wasn't me - I didn't do that!The wonderful thing is called a Tibet Almond Oil stick. Costs about 6 dollars and you can get it in Ace Hardware. Works best on light or midtoned wood. Covers those scratches RIGHT up.

Well, time for a nap before lunch. I understand Grandma has a couple of leftover beef sausage. I love Grandma. She likes to share!

We Redecorate our Dining Room.

I started when I first arrived about 2 1/2 years ago. I did some really creative redesign on the chair legs, and then when the chairs were replaced along came Samoa and he worked on the new ones.

The table legs were a little stouter, but I had gotten some good detailing done - Mama had partially fixed it with wood putty and repainting, but Samoa and then Dubs found the wood putty EXTREMELY nice to work with and they continued the job.

Being a much larger dog, a lot of the "heavy" work fell to me, like the scallops that I put on the underside of the table where the leaf was supposed to go.

Finally, the legs of the table became very loose. Mama took them off and laid the table on the floor. And her and Grandma went shopping and bought an iron outdoor table. They are going to use it inside on the theory that we shouldn't be able to chew through iron. We will see.

Savannah!

I am poked with a sharp object.

I was poked by a sharp object while rough-housing near the pond yesterday.

See, Samoa is mild mannered in many ways, but he is highly competitive when it comes to stick chasing. I think it is because he is not really a retriever and so feels inadequate. So what happened was this...I am a superior swimmer and so had managed to get all the sticks - five in a row. He was upset by this and when Mama threw stick number 6 instead of going after it, he decided to hijack me and THEN go after the stick. So he ran at me and hit me amidships and since I was off balance I fell over. I don't do that much, but I did this time.

AND WHEN I FELL OVER I FELL ON A POINTED OBJECT. It hit me in the butt cheek. I don't know if it was a stick or another kind of sharp object but it poked a little hole in me. I came out of the pond and sat down. Mama thought I might be limping so she called me and I walked a few steps and sat down again. Then little Dubs who runs around chasing bits of bark came flying by and I chased her a little so Mama thought I was ok.

But when we got home she saw some blood on my butt cheek. First she checked to see if Dubs had lost a tooth in me. Nope. Then she parted my hair and studied my rump. I had a small puncture. So out come the peroxicide and the blue disenfectant jelly stuff that stings. It did, but I feel better. No limping and Grandma has directions to coddle. I think I will pull through ok.

I might even forgive Samoa. He can't help feeling inadequate. He IS inadequate!

Savannah!

Vast Sums of Zealies Could Be Mine!

If only my Mama was a better guesser of dog breeds. She is pretty good but has been getting confounded between the American Cocker and the English Cocker pretty often. This is baffling and frustrating, because of course, Dear Cotton was an American Cocker Spaniel and so you think she would know the difference. She thinks she DOES know the difference, but still keeps getting it wrong. Americans (like Cotton) often have thicker coats - Cotton's was almost wool like. AND they have pert noses while the English have sort of silky coats and attractive, but slightly larger and less turned up sort of schnozzes.

But one pert faced cutie - OBVIOUSLY an American Cocker was identified as an English. Bah. This was so deeply frustrating that I am afraid Mama will not play anymore and thus my hope of accumulating Vast Sums of Zealies will not be fulfilled. I shall be forced to send all my friends those free Bit o Love biscuits and look like an impoverished unfortunate instead of the open hearted free spender I aspire to be.

Too bad, isn't it?
Savannah!

Tea Party a Success!

We had a wonderful time yesterday - the Tea Party was a hooge success and lots of the local, Spanish Dogs showed up. Except for the slight interruption of a Dick Cheney Sighting, everything went wonderfully well. Several of the pups had tributes to read or sing, and some of the Spanish Dogs sang a lovely song about swimming across the sea to America. Of course, that is too far to swim, even for me but it was a pretty song.

Dubs destroyed a perfectly good badminton racket by smashing it into the bushes in a failed attempt to whack Dick Cheney. She is out on the balcony restringing it now. I can watch her from where I am and every once in a while jumps up and plays badminton guitar. That is cute. Later Samoa, Angel, Demon and I are going to take one of the basket cars and ride up into the hills to look for a good picnic spot. A few of the beavers are following along, since some of them have proven to be very good "Al Fresco" chefs and they will be making lunch for us.

Tomorrow we leave for the Italian Villa - we meet Chi-Chi and Cho there so Cho can start helping try to catch Dick Cheney. He is a very good watchdog and a security expert. If Dick Cheney is smart, he will stay away from Cho!

Savannah!

A Tea Party for Bo!

We are going to have a delightful Tea Party at a villa here near Barkcelona. Samoa rented the villa for me when I told him about the lovely idea of giving the new presidential dog a National Tea Party. I think it is a wonderful idea, but think that the tea could have been provided, instead of asking everyone to bring their own teabags.

Teabags are sort of inelegant anyway, and Bo may be a easygoing pup, but a party should be something special and not a teabaggy sort of affair. I am serving Earl Grey and Formosa Oolong. And Dubs has made the most charming little cakes shaped like bones and balls. All are in red, white and blue icing and she worked a LOT of chocolate into the recipes as she discovered a leftover Easter Candy sale and bought it all up.

You will be able to find us if you walk along the beach near Barkcelona and look up the hillside. We have decorated with Red, White and Blue Bunting and you are all invited. Tea Dress Casual and there will be plenty of food, so come hungry. Later we will sing nostalgic tunes and have some fireworks in the evening.

Love, Savannah!

Lavender Lovelies!

This morning, darling Demon and I took a ride out to some of the areas luxurious lavender fields. You can see a picture of me posing near one on the top of the page. The smell is delightful - not as yummy as the BBQ Bar, but very nice in a different sort of way. One of the fields had already been harvested and the growers invited Demon and I to roll in the remaining plants, which still contained some flowers. We now smell "like a bordello" according to Samoa who is practicing his Spanish. I am not sure what a bordello is, but it smells lovely.

It is unlike Samoa to give out compliments, unless they are to Angel. But he is a little distracted today since the Dark Man (who does in fact seem to be Dick Cheney) reappeared at the Flamenco Frenzy Festival. To tell the truth, it has us ALL a little keyed up. I am waiting right now for Dubs and Griffin to return from a soccer match. I am SO fretful when my little girl is not in sight. For a tiny mite she is a brave one, but Dick Cheney is a dastardly villain. I am so afraid that he has evil plans for us. Did the Cheney's even HAVE a dog? I don't remember. Even W. had a couple dogs. But Cheney? Brrr.

Oh, here comes Dubs now. That is a relief. Look they all have on colorful leis like the new Obama dog. How pretty! Maybe I should wear one too. Well, I better go make sure they get something to eat. I could stand a visit to the House of Buńuelos myself.

Savannah!

My Easter Breakfast.

There were no pancakes, sadly. We were all out of pancake mix. It appears that Mama is not thinking ahead when doing the grocery shopping. However, the three of us pups had a very nice breakfast with eggs and ham. I don't think it is ALTOGETHER fair that 18 lb. Dubs got as much as 100 lb. me. But Mama says she is a growing girl and needs the extra calories.

Samoa, of course, ate like the house was on fire but he always does. Deprived puppyhood. I prefer to savor my eggs but with the two of them around it is increasingly hard to do. If I want them, I better set to 'cos in a minute they will be gone.

Happy Easter and love to all!
Savannah Blue Belle!

All Ready for a Holiday!

We are hoping for a good one, with extra walks and a couple of yummy snacks. Mama has promised a bag of Puperonis because of Dubs breakthrough in puppy class (mostly we can't have that sort of thing, so this is a treat!) And probably a new toy or two or three!

And nice naps and fresh air. Oh, it is going to be wonderful!

We aren't going to be keeping up our Diaries or correspondence until after Easter, but we will be back and full of new stories and adventures!

Some things that are planned - Mama attempts to walk ONE DOG AT A TIME. (That won't be the hard part - the hard part will be leaving the other two behind!)

Also: an experiment. What will 3 dogs do with one boiled egg?

And an attempt at filming OUR FIRST VIDEO FEATURE! (mama says don't get your hopes up.)

See you soon!

Love, Savvy!

Mama's Alarming Dream!

Mama had an alarming dream and we were all in it. It was very strange. In the dream, Samoa got into trouble and was going to have to be quarantined. Mama was very distressed.

It started with her taking us on a walk (in the dream) Mama has a lot of dreams where she is walking in a place that seems very familiar, but is not anyplace she knows. This one was common enough - we were in some wide fields and we were listening very well. We could roam at a distance and when Mama hailed us we took signals to turn and return and so on - like we do when we are being VERY good.

We came upon a man on a tractor and Mama waved us back to her and towards the other end of the field. We came right up and walked along beside her. She stopped to talk to a Lady who was there who said we were very good dogs. The Lady was having a yard sale and she had a lot of furniture. Mama was looking at it and Samoa and I got bored and went to look for some mud to jump in. Mama saw us wandering and called us back, but right then somebody ran past and Samoa took off after them. He chased them and BIT them! (Samoa would NEVER do that. He is a cupcake!)

Mama was very upset and the person was very angry and said he would have Samoa taken away. We went home and Mama was hugging Samoa and worrying about what would happen. Mama's bro-in-law said he would take care of it but when he came back he said that Samoa would have to go into quarantine for a YEAR! Mama was thinking she might have to run away with Samoa and then she woke up.

Needless to say - we all got extra hugs - especially Samoa. And we would NEVER bite anybody, not even if they look like they would taste good!

I PROMISE!
Savannah!

Dark Suspicions on the Royal Shamrock!

Last night, while still at sea, we had a storm. Little Dubs said "The sky is barking at us." Actually she said "Dezki iz bahgin atuz." But I understood her meaning. Indeed, it was quite frightful. Demon and I sat in the Saloon, holding hands while Samoa nervously paced by the windows.

And this morning we have reports that the Captain is nowhere to be found! He has disappeared after being seen with a stranger in a dark cloak. The Stowaway? Perhaps.

Of course, other crew members are capable of handling the ship - no fear there. But what happened to the Captain? And what is happening to our supply of Peeps which are slowly dwindling? Baskets of them have disappeared from the storerooms.

Samoa intends to report it to the Police, except he has no Portugeese phrasebook so communicating our problem may be difficult. We must hope for the best! We are in port now and will stay near the ship until Samoa returns. Perhaps the local constabulary can solve this for us.

Savannah!

A Wonderful Story!

Mama had to go to work today even though it is Saturday. That happens sometimes and it happened today. Of course we do not like this. We would much rather she stayed home and played with us. But today it may have been the best thing that could have happened.

About lunchtime, the security guard came over and told her he had found a dog. Mama thinks he was hoping she would take it, but 4 dogs would break the camels back, so she started trying to figure out what to do. The dog was a cocker spaniel and Mama had some contacts with cocker spaniel rescue groups, because before she got Dubs she had applied with them, trying to get another Cotton. That didn't work out because for what ever reason, she got turned down. (Let me say here that a pup could hardly have a better home than this, so we don't know why!)

So she didn't really want to deal with them. In the end she told the guy to call the Humane Society and ask for help. We have a very helpful local Humane - that is where Dubs came from. And they told the security guy to meet them at his house so Mama told him to go ahead and do it, and she would be her own security for a while. So off he went and when he got back he had good news! The dogs owner had already called the Humane Society and was wild to get her dog back. She lives about 3 blocks away from the security guy and they took the dog home and everything is good. The security guy left his phone number with the owner and told her to call him if the dog wandered off again and he would help her find it.

Thanks to the Humane Society, the Security Guy and Mama - the poor pup is back where he belongs!

Savannah!

Shipboard Romance!

Of course, being on a honeymoon cruise is a pretty romantic situation. And a lot of us are feeling pretty romantic about things in general. But now I think my little Dubs is feeling the confusion of a first and second romance. The problem being that she is having both of them at the same time.

Of course she is very fond of Obi. After her boyfriend Archie disappeared, she latched on to Obi and declared she was in love with him. But yesterday I went down to the Galley to see how she was doing with her latest cake creation and she was deep in conversation with a very handsome pup named Griffin. He is dark and tall and has the unique feature of appearing to have one ear. (He really does have two, but they are pointed and stick straight up and touch each other, so it looks like one big ear in the middle of his head.) At any rate, they seemed to be very cozy with each other and were sharing the leftover icing from the "Rollo Surprise" cake she is making for Demon.

Later she sat on the deck with me having a lemonade and confessed her confusion. "Donno whu I luvvem." she sighed. I advised her that it was ok to have several light romances at her age and it was far too soon to take things seriously. I told her that I thought Griffin was very good looking but she may be too young to be sharing a cake pan with him. She seemed to agree. I don't want our little girl to grow up too fast. Anyway, she brightened up and ran off with her hula-hoop to show Samoa how she can dance with it.

I am sure that Griffin is a good boy, and I will tell him that we are glad he is keeping company with Dubs, but that her Daddy Samoa is very stern, so he must be respectful. Most of the pups admire Samoa so that should work.

Savannah!

Fresh Sea Air!

How the fresh sea air gives a girl a new outlook! I am looking forward to visiting all these interesting and historic European Capitals! I plan to buy many baskets in Portugal to send gifts home in. And in Barcelona I am going to learn how to Flamenco! (At first I thought Tango, but Angel tells me that is from South America. So I will have to travel there, I guess.)

Mrs. Elder is making me a very lovely Flamenco Gown - It has absolute MILES of ruffles. I feel SO glamorous!

And now that I am at sea, I am not fretting about those shadows I saw in the gardens of Petit Trianon. Samoa says it is all in my head. He says we are all keyed up because of the White Lady at the Irish Castle and are seeing ghosts everywhere. He says even brave hearted little Dubs has started complaining about a "Dark Man."

"First a White Lady, then a Dark Man - next we will have a rainbow Grandma!" he says. He is a practical kind of dog. I may be too suggestible and Dubs is still a young pup. She looks so cute running around Deck in her little sailor suit. Right now she is all smudged up with jelly from the jelly roll attempts, but I will get her cleaned up before lunch. She wants to play in the pool later, so she will be good.

Hmmn. Speaking of Lunch!
Savannah!

Petit Trianon.

I hope I spelled that right. I have enough trouble spelling in Canine-American, let along La Chien Francois. But anyway. Today we toured Versailles Palace and the lovely gardens at Petit Trianon. Those were created as a special sort of hideaway for Marie Antoinette. Apparently they didn't hide her well enough, because...well - you know that story, I guess. I know that some historians think she was not such a bad girl, only in a tight spot. And she probably never told anyone to eat cake. But my Mama says it was conspicuous consumption during hard times that made people hate her so much. One of those people was possibly a relative of Mama's from way back, since her daddy's family hot footed it out of France at around the time of the Revolution. They came to America where they could bake their own cakes, I guess.

Anyway, Demon and I were strolling along through the gardens and admiring the quaint little buildings when we saw something very odd. It seemed to be a shadow following us. The sun was bright and we could plainly see our own shadows, but couldn't account for the extra one.

I told Samoa about it and he suggested that I was spending too much time wandering around without a beret on, but fortunately I had Demon to back me up. He saw it too! I wonder what it could be? Do you think perhaps those gardens are haunted? Or is is some side effect brought on from all those sugary Peeps I have been eating?

Well, I certainly hope we don't have another mystery on our paws!

Love, Savvy

How Romantic!

Yesterday was a very special day. As you know, Demon and I have been married since New Years Day of this year and we are very happy. Here in Paris, we are having a wonderful second honeymoon by tagging along with newlyweds Samoa and Angel. Late yesterday afternoon, Demon and I stopped at a riverside cafe for a refreshing "creme glace" and to rest from all our touring. (Unlike some pups, we did not resort to a golf cart, but prefered to stroll about.) While resting our paws, both of us were struck by the romantic nature of all of Paris! Demon promptly dropped to his knees and proposed to me! Even though we are already happily married!

He said "just in case the first time wasn't romantic enough!" But it was! But the second time, WOW! That was romantic. We strolled paw in paw down the Champs Elysee and vowed we would NEVER forget Paris!

Savannah!

Paris in the Springtime!

It is so very lovely here. And the pups and peeps are so sophisticated and fashionable! I love Paris!

We got here late yesterday and went straight to our hotel rooms. Samoa had booked them ahead of time from onboard ship, in case it was hard to find good places. He found a really swanky place and we all have "suites" even if they are a bit crowded. Some of us had to host a couple of Beavers since we didn't want to have them sleeping in the hallways. They wanted to, they said they wanted to inspect the fancy woodwork so they could recreate it for a project. But we were afraid someone might stumble over one in the dark - not expecting to find beavers sleeping in the corridors of Le Chateau Grande Beaucoup!

We are going out to a fancy dinner tonight in Montmartre. Samoa made the reservations. I have a very nice lacy gown to wear, and Dubs is going to wear her painting smocks. She has begun to insist upon it and I have been advised not to argue with her about this. She is beginning to "assert her personality" and shouldn't be repressed. Ok by me. Wearing the smocks I don't have to be worried if she makes a mess, or if someone accidently offers her tapioca, which can have disastrous results.

We are having a guest of honor at dinner - our good friend "Alley" who has been longing to see Paris and who is acting as "Princess of the Day" and wearing a pretty tiara we happen to have. She looks like a Princess, too! Congratulations, Dear Alley and we are so sorry to hear about your dear kitty. Hope you love the new kitties! Give them a chance, I'm sure they will try hard to be as sweet as the other kitty was.

Love, Savannah!

Can't be Sad and I'm lucky that way...

It isn't that I don't know there is plenty to be sad about. I read some really very sad stories on Dogster. Some poor pups gone to the bridge before their time through awful accidents or mistreatment. Some poor peoples left alone when their pups go away forever.

Some AWFUL stories about AWFUL mistreatment that really make me wince.

But I am lucky. So lucky. And I am happy all the time. I am young and healthy and loved and have lots of dogster friends and lots of friends in the 'hood and everything is as wonderful as it could be, except sometimes the other pups grab my toys and I don't like that. (But SOMETIMES I grab theirs!)

I have to be happy. I can't be sad. Lucky, lucky me.

Savannah!

Very Pleasant Day today!

We are really enjoying our vacation in Wales. I have been doing some swimming in the lovely cove below the cottages. And it is warm enough to rest on the beach - though some of the pups are still wearing their Aran Sweaters.

Tonight we are going to have a big "Bon Voyage" for Kirby, who is going back home. We really enjoyed having him along and hope he will grab a flight back anytime he can. Samoa will pay, he loves to have Kirby around.

I signed little Dubs up for a Corgi Club and she already has a number of new friends. She looks like them, or a lot like them anyway. They all seem so sweet and they are as cute as buttons. I have a hard time remembering that they aren't all babies, just little cute dogs.

Samoa says they are top notch herding dogs - as good as Border Collies or Aussies. He is one or the other of those, so he ought to know. Even though he has never herded anything but me and sometimes Mama.

Well, I better get off now and run to see what sort of party we should have for Kirby. I am sure Demon (my dear husband) has some good ideas. He and Kirby are old friends.

Savannah!

Teenage Rebellion?

Our little Dubs is not 5 months old yet. Still I believe it is possible that she is now turning into a teenager. She has been a little unruly and downright rude to Samoa. She has also been grabbing my toes with a little more force than I can be comfortable with. She waits until I let them dangle over the edge of the rocking chair and then she starts pulling on them. It is very difficult to maintain decorum with a 15 lb. midget dog pulling on ones toes.

Today she took over Samoa's diary and wrote that he is going to look bad after he gets a haircut. In fact, if he gets styled like last year he will look rather handsome.

Then he was trying to nap on the floor and she kept grabbing his ears and growling. Mama pulled her off and scolded but she went all innocent then and tried to pretend it was Samoa's fault. Mama did not fall for it this time, though. Samoa got a piece of hotdog and a hug. Dubs got to sit in her bed for a few minutes until she composed herself.

I remember when I was young and unruly. Dubs better be careful. She might have to go to boot camp and practice that Sit, Stay, Down stuff like I used to. THAT gets old in a hurry!

Savannah!

Frolic in the Surf...

Yesterday I was writing about bathing and even more enjoyable - swimming! I love it, Samoa tolerates it and I think we have a prodigy with Steamboat Dubs who is like a Duck in the Pond.

Neither of those two has had the ultimate experience of swimming in the Surf. We live relatively close to the ocean, but the nearest is a Resort Town which doesn't allow dogs in the tourist season. That starts May the 1st. Mama has had me over there a couple of times, but dogs have to stay on leash and 1. I 'bout tear her arm off when I am excited. and 2. How can a pup have a decent swim while on leash?

So we haven't been over for a while. We never took Samoa over because he gets carsick. And I don't get to go by myself with Mama 'cos Samoa cries and cries.

And now we have Dubs, too. Mama would like to take us ALL over but it would be difficult to manage three dogs, especially if Samoa or Dubs tried to run off at the sight of all that surging water. (Thrilling to me, but they MIGHT be a little alarmed.)

We shall have to borrow a stout pair of arms that can hold on to Samoa while Mama manages me. And I think Dubs would not run off if nobody else could go with her. I sure hope we try this very soon.

If they want to stand by and watch, I could show them how a Labrador does it!

Savannah. Thinking about masses of water...

Bathing...

Samoa and I have different opinions on bathing. I am in favor of it and would do it every day if I could find a reliable water source. On milder days, Mama will walk us to the pond and I can rinse off and freshen up. Anything above - say - 40 degrees or so. Though I am not above breaking a little ice should it prove necessary. It is my ancestral duty, you know. And it gets MIGHTY chilly up there in the Sea of Labrador. (I would really like to see a Sea of Labradors!)

You will never see Samoa choose to get his feet wet unless it is at least 60 degrees. Or if he has to gallop over a stream to get at a goose or something. And as far as totally immersing himself - not gonna happen. Of course, living with me he did eventually learn how to swim. At first it was comical to watch him. He would walk on his back feet on the bottom of the pond and kick his front feet to hold his head up. Finally it occured to him that if he would kick all his feet he would stay afloat and move around. He is better, but he is no Labrador!

So I was relieved to find that the little one is a natural swimmer. At first she would just wade, but she is a baby and that is to be expected. Last week, though - she followed me right into the pond and started chugging along like a little paddle boat. She swam so hard she beached herself at one point. Ran aground and kept kicking her legs until she broke loose and kept agoing.

That's the spirit, little short legs!

Savannah!

Feeling Much Better!

I don't like to complain too much...There are many sad stories on Dogster and I don't want to be another one. I guess some day when I am old and not well I might be sad about it, but for now I am a young and happy dog and mostly very healthy. So sorry for the griping about my bellyache yesterday. Today I am ALL better.

I ate my dinner last night and tried to eat Samoa's too. This morning I ate my breakfast and part of Dub's. (Mama gave her more to make up - she is a growing puppy!)

Today is wet in our parts, but I have a nice snuggy corner and Dubs and Samoa to play with so I am happy. Happy all the time!

Love to those who sent best wishes.
Savannah!

Ireland is lovely...

But some of us are beginning to look forward to basking in the sunlight and indulging in rich food that we expect to find in Italy. We stop there next, Samoa has rented a Villa - or even bought it, I can't keep track anymore. Anyway, he says it is a nice place, near the sea and promises it has no ghosts.

I think we are going part of the way on the Royal Shamrock - and then taking a luxury train the rest of the way. Not 'til next week though. We are staying the rest of this week at Castle Dashamore and looking forward to enjoying a extra special party on St. Paddy's day and to the boys and Sukie finding out the mystery behind the Castle Haunting.

Imagine, Nanny Beaver being part of this! Well - I for one can hardly wait to find out what happens next!

Savannah!

My St. Patrick's Day Song!

I am going to sing this at tomorrow's ceilidh. I hope you all can be there! (At the Castle Dashamoor in Ireland where Samoa and Angel are honeymooning!)

I'm looking over a four-leaf clover
That I overlooked before.
One leaf is sunshine, the second is rain,
Third is the roses that grow in the lane.
No need explaining, the one remaining
Is somebody I adore.
I'm looking over a four-leaf clover
That I overlooked before

Savannah

I have a little dance that goes with it. I twirl my parasol and skip around. I hope you like it!

Ice Cream Party!

Today we are going to have an Ice Cream Party with special Irish Cream ice cream and sauced with Baileys or with Creme d' Menthe.

Yummy! Of course, there will be non-alcohol sauces for the younger pups. And more of those darling little sandwiches which you can easily hold three to a paw.

Everything is so elegant and CLASSY here. I have been on my best manners to look good for the natives. Although I did eat rather too many chocolate cups the other night and had to burp a little. It was during the sing along, so I don't think anypup noticed.

Love, Savannah!

Daytime Slumber Party!

We are having a lovely time this afternoon at the Castle. After picking up Kirby we were quite drowsy by the time we got back to the Castle. The boys went off to do some investigating and Sukie and I and the rest of the Girls all went to one of the airy sunporches for an afternoon nap.

It was so delightful! Like a Daytime Slumber Party. Except for the far off sound of breaking crockery, we were completely undisturbed and as snug as could be in our lovely white hammocks with goose down cuddlies. We laid back and napped or told each other stories while the breeze blew through the porch.

I am not sure what we are doing for dinner tonight. Right now I am just SO COMFORTABLE and happy.

Zzzz.

Savannah!

A Relaxing Afternoon...

I wouldn't want you to think that every minute here at Castle Dashamoor is frightening and tension filled. In fact, most of it is quite relaxing and lovely. It is true, the place appears to be haunted and my dear friend Sukie was stuffed into a trunk. But we successfully rescued her and after the trip in the Rolls to the Airport to pick up Kirby we have all had a very pleasant afternoon.

The boys are playing (or pretending to play) croquet over on the South Lawn. Sukie and I have had a nice "Tea" with lovely scones and all and we are making daisy chains under the trees by the pasture. Dubs is off somewhere with her Nanny and painting assistant and a collection of Beavers are grooming the grounds and eating Sticky Buns that were left over from Breakfast.

Later we are going to visit the Pub again for a little dancing and some of the local brews. And then dinner, which I think is going to be fresh fish. Samoa was ordering and he is on a "fish kick" which is fine with me as I am very fond of it. Besides, I can get something to carry me over while we are at the pub. Very fond of pub food.

I think Sukie and I are going to take a stroll around the grounds. We are carrying parasols in case we need to protect ourselves against anything that might try to shove us into a trunk. We will just whack 'em with the parasol.

Love, Savvy.

Thenk Yew!

Thanks to all our lovely dogster friends who have sent so many of those delicious treat bags to me and my family. Little Dubs was thrilled to get so many gifts and Samoa and I also enjoyed them!

Love, Savannah and the Bell Pack!

Dubs has a baby...

Don't be shocked, fellow pups. Baby Dubs is far too young to actually be a Mama and like the rest of us, she has had the no-pup surgery.

What happened is this. Last night she had a vet appt. and was in the waiting room with a lot of other dogs. The only one she wanted to talk to and not growl at was a tiny dog named Coco. Coco was there for some post-natal attention, and told Dubs that she had a pup that was bigger than she is. She had to have a C-Section the pup was so big.

Fortunately Coco and her pup are doing well now. But this gave Dubs the idea that even though I am much bigger than her, I could be the puppy and she could be the Mama. And now that is what she says. That she is my Mama and she had a big puppy just like Coco. She says she doesn't remember anything about it, like Coco she woke up much thinner and with a headache and a sore belly. And then they showed her the pup.

So now I am Dub's baby and she is my mommy. She is a good mommy, but a little rough. She says it is for my own good, so I learn my manners.

Savvy.

What happened to the Pack of Paczki!

We had a pack of four that Mama brought home. Grandma ate one and Mama ate one and the other two were in a box on the table in the kitchen. It is a small round table, easily within reach. I did reach it. Samoa and I shared the remaining two paczki, and little Dubs got some too. They were filled with raspberry jam. Delightful.

Dubs cuddle bed is full of cinnamon sugar. I am full of Paczki. Life is good.

Savannah!

Fat Tuesday, Irish Style!

Well, since we are all off on an Irish jaunt it pretty much slipped our minds that we would be in Ireland at Mardi Gras time. I spoke to Samoa (he was under the bed in the Royal Suite, I don't know why) and he said that if he had thought about it we could have gone to Rio first, but since we missed that chance we should just celebrate here.

So we are going to. Has everybody seen the movie "Titanic?" Remember the scene in steerage where Jack and Rose join the lower deck passengers for a party? Well that is what we are going to do! The Castle Management says we can have the whole lower floor tonight and they have booked an Irish Band and invited all the local population. So we can have a good old fashioned Irish Shindig and it will be even better than the one in the movie, because we aren't on a ship so we can't sink.

Running off to find my Dancing Shoes! Savannah!

Going Ashore on Erin's Isles!

Max just wandered by and announced that "That's my last duchess painted on the wall." I don't what he meant. I only see the painting that dear little Dubs did of Angel and Samoa in the Church. It is very nice, and Angel does have a quite regal air but I don't think she is a Duchess. And certainly not Max's Duchess. I better have the Beavers keep an eye on him.

The portrait of our honeymoon couple IS lovely. A little out of focus perhaps, but still very charming. We are going to take little Dubs to the onboard optmetrist, just in case she needs spectacles but it could just be that she has impressionist leanings.

Anyway, today we are too busy getting ready to disembark for our stay in Ireland. Samoa has rented an entire castle for all of us to stay in. Angel and he have the "Royal Suite" but the rest of us all have very lovely rooms and so elegant! I am just as glad to be in the more common rooms, because legend has it that the Royal Suite is HAUNTED! By the ghosts of the Old Lords Hunting Hounds! Brrr. Samoa says he has no problem with some whispy hound dogs, but I'll bet he howls a different song when he sees them in the middle of the night. Good thing Angel will be there to hold his hand.

We all have on our very best green outfits and most of us have some lovely lace collars made by the bunnies or an Aran Sweater, compliments of the Knitting Beaver Bunch. Many of the Beavers are going to find some of their favorite activities at the Castle, as they have planned to do some grooming of the estate. With permission and guidance from the castle gardeners of course.

I think today we have a carriage ride tour of the Castle Grounds and the local village. We are going to have lunch at a pub and then tonight a Grand Extravaganza Irish Ceilidh. I will write all about it tomorrow!

Love, Savannah!

Dance Class!

Oh, we had a great time on board the Royal Shamrock last night. After dinner which was a delicious buffet of seafood we had a toast with Green Champagne because tomorrow we arrive in Ireland!

Then we had a Dance Class where all the girls tried their toes at Irish Step Dancing. Some of us did pretty well, and Sukie was a particular star. I don't think I have ever seen such a high kicker! Of course, there had to be a Chihoohaa distraction. One of them put on a tape of "Land of a Thousand Dances" in place of the Irish music and all of a sudden we are dancing the Mashed Potato. Even that was fun!

Some of the less active pups (and rabbits and beavers) took handicraft classes and learned how to knit Aran Style. Of course the Beavers were over achievers. Several of them have already made some Aran Style sweaters and soon all of us will have at least one. The rabbits are a little more painstaking in their efforts and are working on more complicated patterns. They plan on making one for each of the crew members as a thank you for their great service. After that they are going to sell them in the gift shop.

This morning was the Waffle Extravaganza for Breakfast. It was delicious. Except for some confusion over what exactly a "Gooseberry" is I think it was the best meal yet.

More tomorrow!
Savannah!

On the Way to Ireland!

Has anybody seen my dear husband, Demon? Perhaps he is at the chicken wing buffet. I have been looking for him, I missed the morning stroll on deck to orchestral music. I was a little full of the delicious buttermilk pancakes they serve here on the Royal Shamrock. I had to go have a little nap.

Anyway, things are going smoothly. Max the Cat has changed his identity slightly, but there is nothing unusual about that. He often does, and at least this time he is not claiming to be a deposed prince or the fugitive leader of a supressed rebellion in Eastern Europe.

And he is not quoting poetry. It always worries me when he starts quoting, especially if it is Poe or William Blake.

No, he has just decided he needs to be one of the Bell Bunch like the rest of us.

I am Savannah Blue BELLE, Dubs is Dublin Rose O'BELLE, Samoa is Samoa SunnyBear BELL and now Max is Max BELLINI, cat of mystery.

I think it suits him.

Dubs is currently in the Crafter's Lounge working on a Papier Mache Project. Samoa and Angel are strolling the deck and I will go find Demon. Or just stop by and check out that chicken wing buffet.

Enjoy!
Savannah!

Samoa's Wedding!

How happy I am for my boy and his lovely bride. I could just skip and sing all day long, but I have so many things to do. I have to make sure the tables are all in place for the rehearsal dinner and get those dear little starched rabbit napkins out. I have to get my dress on - good thing this is a 50's theme night and I had my poodle skirt cleaned already. (They did manage to get the BBQ sauce out, lucky me!)

Still. I think I could fit in ONE song!
There's a bright golden haze on the meadow,
There's a bright golden haze on the meadow,
The corn is as high as an elephant's eye,
An' it looks like it's climbin' clear up to the sky.

Oh, what a beautiful mornin',
Oh, what a beautiful day.
I got a beautiful feelin'
Ev'rything's goin' my way.

All the cattle are standin' like statues,
All the cattle are standin' like statues,
They don't turn their heads as they see me ride by,
But a little brown mav'rick is winkin' her eye.

Oh, what a beautiful mornin',
Oh, what a beautiful day.
I got a beautiful feelin'
Ev'rything's goin' my way.

All the sounds of the earth are like music,
All the sounds of the earth are like music,
The breeze is so busy it don't miss a tree,
And a ol' weepin' willer is laughin' at me!

Oh, what a beautiful mornin',
Oh, what a beautiful day,
I got a beautiful feelin'
Ev'rything's goin' my way.
Oh, what a beautiful day.

So happy! Savannah!

A Lovely Story about My Mama's Dog Dixie.

Dixie was a big yellow labrador like me. Mama had her when she was very young - Dixie was the first dog that was hers and hers alone. When she was a kid the family had a lot of dogs, all little like Weiner Dogs and stuff. Mama would take them for walks and have to carry them when they got tired, so when she could finally get her own dog, she wanted a big one that could walk and walk. A lab was the choice and in time everybody loved Big Dixie.

Grandpa (who I never met) really loved Big Dixie. He thought she was the best dog in the world. And Dixie loved him too. Then Grandpa died, when he was still sort of young. Dixie lived with Mama for 8 more years and when she was very old she died too.

The night she died, Mama had a dream. It was of the backyard of the house near Tangier Sound where they had lived when Grandpa was still alive. It was springtime and the grass was very green and all the locust trees in bloom. In the dream, Big Dixie ran across the lawn, almost shining against the bright green grass. Then Mama heard Grandpa's voice. He said "It is so nice to have her here."

After that Mama was happier though she really missed Big Dixie and Grandpa too. But she is glad to know that they are together in the green spring of the Place on the Other Side.

Savannah. (the spittin' image of Big Dixie!)

Don't Bite My Heinie, Mr. Fancypants!

Samoa told his story about being attacked by some crazed little overbred nutcase dog. He was! It really happened, and I was as shocked as he was. I think the miserable mutt took advantage of him, because Samoa is kinda tall and this cur just slipped up underneath him sort of and chomped on his leg.

It must have given him a sense of power because then he tried it on me! Let me tell you! This is one of those times when I am glad to be the size of a freight car. I wheeled around and went "Gnar, Grnar, Grnar!" and poor stoopid Monty lost his nerve and buckled.

Fearsome sight, I am sure.

GRNAR!

Savannah!

Floodwaters and Crocodiles!

I was just watching the news. Mama isn't home, so she can't change the channel to look for old reruns of Boston Legal or movies with Humprey Bogart in. Not that I don't enjoy those too, but a girl needs to keep up with the news of the world. Of course I can get a lot of info. from my very intelligent husband, Demon Flash Bandit - but to make sure we have interesting dinner table conversations I need to watch the news myself from time to time. So I did, and something rather alarming is happening in Australia. It seems they have suffered from very heavy rainfalls that are causing flooding. And the flooding is causing alligators to swim up and try to snack on Australian Dogs!

I am glad that Samoa is over here and not over there! Because he is probably an Australian Dog! I am sure he would not taste very good, but I don't guess the alligators would stop to consider that! If they are anything like American Alligators, they just eat first and ask questions later. (I don't mean they really ask questions. Probably they just sit around belching.)

It just gives me the shivers! Not only do those poor Australian Dogs have to hang upside down all the time. NOW they have to stay out of the water! Too much to bear!

Savannah (eyes shut, under the coffee table!)

How Lucky We Are!

All three of us! We have it really good here and we know it. Just this morning I had a really excellent belly rub, and little Dubs had her first belly rub ever. I could tell she liked it.

Samoa got rolled over and had a chops massage which looks funny because his face gets all stretched. He enjoys that. We also had a really nice breakfast of scrambled eggs and hot dog, 'cos it is Sunday and Sunday Breakfast is always better.

Tonight we are going to sit on the sofa and watch the Puppy Bowl on Animal Planet. Maybe we can figure out what kind of puppy Dubs is. And then next week Mama is taking some time off just to spend with us! Puppy Quality time!

We all know that not all dogs are so lucky. We wish they were.

Savvy, Samoa and Dubs.

Is she a Husky?

My dear Husband Demon Flash Bandit has suggested that the baby might be part husky since she has a mask and some huskies do. One thing that she does that is a Husky trait is she talks. I saw her talk to Mama last night. She didn't say much, just whoo-whoo but she is very young and has to start somewhere.

Samoa talks, but usually just to me or Dubs, not to hoomans. He says stuff like wowow, or AaarrRROWWA.

I will keep an ear open and report back any other talking that goes on. I myself do not talk. Snore, grunt, sigh, burp and other noises, but no talkin'.

Savannah!

Our Little Dubs is somewhat distressed!

I think I mentioned recently that she already had a boyfriend. An entirely nice seeming young pup named Archie. She called him "Watchie." They had already gotten to be great friends - exchanging Valentines gifts and notes. This morning little Dubs comes running over in her little pink rompers and goes straight to the computer to send morning kissies to Watchie! And he is not there!

Totally gone from Dogster! I know this happens if the rules are broken, but Watchie was such a young pup and seemed to be from a nice family! Could they have done something to get banned? I sure hope not. Possibly it is just an accident and Watchie will soon return. Dubs has his picture on his page and yesterday he had the cutest picture of the two of them together on his page. Now gone.

Poor Dubs. Right now she is mauling a hot dog and seems unconcerned, but I know it must have her down a little. I will cheer her up and let her sit in the chair with me. Maybe she will like that!
Savvy!

An Armchair to Call My Own...

As you can see from the picture of me in the Rocking Chair, I am a large sized dog with a small sized chair. I find it relaxing (if cramped) to sit in the chair instead of on the floor. But it is starting to get a little wobbly from the effort of holding me snug and I think I need to put in a request for something bigger and sturdier. An nice comfy armchair would be just the thing.

It is too bad I didn't think of this until after Christmas and my Barkday isn't until September. Maybe if I ask nice (I AM senior dog around here, after all!) my Mama will get me one. In a nice color. With big comfy cushions.

That would be nice.
Savvy!

Busy, Busy!

Aside from suddenly having to help with minding a pup toddler, I have been spending a lot of time helping my dear friend Angel Zoom Smokey get some of the final touches for her wedding done. Now that I am a married doggie, I am something of an expert on getting everything together all at once. Like making sure the dresses fit, even though all the bridesmaids seem to have suddenly grown several inches. (I guess we should have considered that most of them ARE young and left a longer hem.)

Also, Samoa - the groom to be - is a little jittery and since he is my brother I have to help calm him down. I have suggested that my Hooman Mama give him a nice bath. He doesn't like baths, but he could use one and it will take him mind off things.

I also have been busy testing the cakes. Our baker is a very good baker, but she has been a little uncertain about the quality of her icing lately. So we are working our way through several test runs. I may need to have my Matron of Honour dress let out a little.

Oh, well. I think I just heard the oven timer. Better go check and see what's cookin'.

Love, Savvy!

I'm not sure that this is really a dog...

I mean in some respects she does look like a little puppy of unspecific breed. But in many ways she is not at all doglike. When she is angry, she makes a sound that seems suspiciously birdlike. Like a combination between a growl and a coo. And if you let that lull you it means trouble, since she usually then launches at you and grabs you by your throat. It doesn't hurt much when she does it to me, because I am gifted in that I have a very luxurious throat with lots of extra skin. She grabs on it and I don't even feel it.

Not as easy on Samoa who is a lean dog. When she grabs him it is usually by the ear. And she can bite, too! He is yelling about it most of the time. Mama keeps hugging him to make him feel better, and he is trying to be a trooper, but the little devil is getting worse. Now she is confident and thinks she is in charge around here. If a pup gets up from a warm spot to check on the food supply, she is sure to put herself right in the middle of it and when you get back, your cozy spot is taken. And if you try to move her, well. I'll just say it isn't the best idea.

I can always retire to atop some furniture, but mostly parts of me dangle off and are nipped by the little devil when she wakes up and is bored. My husband Demon says we should tell her to play rosebush but I am afraid she is catching on to that. Plainly this is going to be a bigger chore that we had bargained on.
Savvy!

Back at our lovely home...

The honeymoon was fantastic and I was so proud to be by Demon's side at the Inauguration and Ball. But it is very special to move into our own house and to set up housekeeping and entertaining.

We are going to have a get together on this coming Friday - sort of an open house. We want to show the place off to all of our friends. Chi-Chi from the Pier is catering it. Demon and I are going to wear our Inauguration Ball costumes, just to show them off but the party is going to be more casual so we will probably change after a while.

I am going to give several house tours so that everyone can see some of the special features that we have, like the entertainment room with a Built-In Blizzard Bar and Candy Dispensers. Also popcorn machines and comfy cozy seat to watch films from or to nap in. Right next to that is the Adventure Den where we are going to display our collection of souveniers and gifts. It is a very nice room and just invites snooping around since you might find almost anything in there. A lot of the accessories are from the Pier Landfill and were selected by Demon. Some are chewable, some are edible and all are fun to smell and play with. Right off that room is a sort of garden room or sand area with actual dinosaur bones buried. I am sure that is going to be Samoa's favorite room because he loves sand. And what dog doesn't love bones?

Oh, I am just going on and on and better save some of this for the tour. I hope you can come!

Love, Savannah!

The Inaugural Ball!

It didn't get much coverage on TV, because the networks have a relentlessly pro-human bias, But there was a Ball for Canines as part of the Inaugural Festivities and of course, I got to attend. Because my husband (I said HUSBAND!) Demon Flash Bandit is a VID (very important dog!)

So there we were in our Tux and gown, and I think we looked very dashing. We actually got some face time with the Obamas and I must say there are very gracious. Of course the little girls are wonderful and Mrs. Obama is a fine role model for ALL females. I found her very warm and intelligent and of course, the gown was lovely. Mr. Obama wanted to talk to us about their final selection of a dog to keep the little girls happy and to help advise him on dog related matters during his presidency. Demon told him of several dogs that would be a good pick, and advised him to act rapidly as it is a vital concern of all of us here at Dogster that he be getting the best advice from the Canine World and as soon as possible.

I did get my picture taken several times. Maybe I will end up in Dogs magazine in the fashion spread.

Love, Savvy!

Well, my paws are full!

Excuse me for not writing my diary for so long and forgetting to update everyone on the wedding and honeymoon. Trust me, it has been heaven.

On the other hand, there is the matter of our newly adopted baby sister and full time nuisance. Her name is Dublin and I find that quite lovely. Much more lovely than being wakened in the night by needle sharp teeth on my ankles! Please, my ankles are quite lovely - ask Demon! and I would prefer to keep them that way.

Fortunately, Samoa has turned out to be quite the Father Figure. Who could have guessed. He tucks the little one in for naps and plays with her when she is awake. He shares his food with her and lets her sleep on his big plumey tail. He is looking pretty tired and raggedy, but Mama says she appreciates his help. 'Cos the little girl would be a handful and also lonely if she only had the hoomans to rely on.

Me, I am biding my time. I prefer to keep my ankles smooth and unbitten. Maybe I could borrow Mama's wading boots?

Savannah!

North to Alaska!

Which is the name of a very bad movie my Mama and I watched once. It had a very bad theme song too! but in actual fact I am thrilled to head "North to Alaska" with my beloved Demon Flash Bandit.

The Honeymoon train has travelled all across America and we have had a magnificent time. I especially want to thank the charming Kirby who hosted us in New Mexico. Dinner out was fabulous, Kirb and the scenery down there is fantastic. I am very sorry you could not come on the train to Alaska with us, but we are hoping to swing by on the return visit and catch you again. Love ya, guy!

Today we finally get to Alaska and it was worth the journey. We are staying at Samoa's lovely Polar Palace Hotel and Resort. Sukie (who came along with us) has already hit the gaming tables and has won free dinners for everynight! She is a card shark boys - look out for her! The rest of us are relaxing and enjoying the comforts of the resort. Samoa has spent a lot of time in the Desert Spa, since he is a heat loving sandy sort of dog. Figures he would fall in love with a Husky, huh? but Angel and him are so adorable together! We have their big Valentine's Day wedding to get ready for next.

I have been spending time by the pool, and Demon often sits in a lounge chair and has a Blizzard or two while I swim. I love to swim and he says he loves to watch! Perfect! I think later we are going for a walk in the frosty woods so I brought my very warmest parka! And tonight we have a fireside dinner and sing a long! It should be wonderful!

Love, Savvy!

Honeymoon Train Reaches the Grand Canyon!

Well, Demon and I finally came out of our private car for a little while and we picked a good place to do it. We are at the Grand Canyon which (as you know) was dug by dogs in prehistoric times. Those dogs of yesteryear knew how to dig!

Samoa is fascinated by it, well we all are! But he is such a young pup and hasn't really seen much of the world, billionaire magnate though he may be! He wants to get a team of Beavers with tape measures out here to measure the hole. I think he is going to look into buying it, but he may find it is not for sale, being that it is a national treasure or something. He already put a deposit down on Nebraska for some reason. I think he should just enjoy the scenery and stop thinking about investments. Here comes Angel, she will take his mind off of it!

I get word from back at our home that Mama may be having better luck with her adoption attempts. The (shall remain nameless) rescue society has not even bothered to get back to us - we got dropped like a hot potato after the house visit! Anyway, she talked to the same place that Samoa came from and they have a little curly darling that she is going to go look at tomorrow. Maybe he will be named "Cholly" which is sort of Baltimorese for Charles. I think we would like him. (Mama says I should tell you that our place is not such a mess that it would explain to her why we got turned down. We actually have a pretty nice place. Who knows?)

Cholly is a jumper, but Mama says that is ok and Samoa and I sure won't care.

Tonight we are having a campfire dinner with beef stew or chicken if you don't like beef. Maybe even fish? Some of our travelling companions really like fish, so we can always get some sent in by Beaver Courier.

More Tomorrow!
Savvy!

Honeymoon News!

I haven't been keeping up with my Diary as well as I should. I have (~blush~) been a little busy lately. What day is this, anyway?

Sigh. Honeymoons are lovely and I think all of us should have at least one. I plan to have several or maybe one every year, but all of them with my handsome husband, Demon. Sigh. We have been in our private train car for almost 2 days now, and every once in a while we have an omelet or several. Somepup has been leaving them just outside the door, which is very helpful. Thanks, whoever you are.

I guess we better take a breather at the next stop. I don't know where it will be, my brother Samoa has arranged some stops at various national parks. The last time I looked we were in Indiana. What day did you say this was? What state are we in now, dear?

Sigh.
Savvy!

More Honeymoon News!

This is exciting - we have had a wedding while on our honeymoon! Not Demon and I! (though I think that renewing vows will be lovely - maybe on our anniversary) No, this wedding was one of the Chihoohaas who missed out on the mass ceremony in which all the Chihoohaas married each other. I am not sure how legal that is, but I think the authorities tend to look the other way concerning those tiny little dogs. They are always up to something, so it would be impossible to keep track of them.

Anyway - this wedding involved one lone Chihoohaa and a number of chickens. He did limit himself to 2 chickens and the rest were just witnesses. So he has two poultry brides now and seemed very happy. The chickens looked pleased too.

Then we visited a Lakeside National Park with the most lovely Dunes to roll on. Samoa was beside himself because he is a real sand fancier and he and Angel ran for hours. Demon and I snuggled in behind a dune for some cuddling - then later I took a swim. It was heavenly. Back on the train until evening when we stopped at a Roadhouse with the most interesting dance band I have ever heard. They called their style Hip-Hop/Polka fusion but I thought I heard some Reggae in there as well. Samoa has hired them to be house band for the Pier. So we have that to look forward to when we get home.

Tonight we stay at a Farmhouse/Inn so we can sleep in and have a big Farm Breakfast when we wake up. I'm looking forward to that! All of us are having a great time, and most of the wedding party is along for the ride. I thought Sukie might get out when we reached Ohio, but we are having so much fun she is staying for the whole trip!

Love, Savvy!

Honeymoon, Day 2!

We left on our honeymoon trip yesterday and I have been floating on clouds! Demon and I are truly made to be together and have been having the most wonderful time tearing up some of the lovely chew toys we got as wedding gifts and playing tug-of-war with the remnants. Truly a match made in heaven Or made at Samoa's Pondside BBQ Bar and Sea Serpent Sighting Pier! Best ribs in Maryland AND exciting amusements!

Yesterday we stopped at a fascinating historical site in Ohio. It is an ancient Indian Mound. Demon and I strolled around and had a picnic while Samoa and his fiance played pranks on each other. They are along for the ride and to check on the Northern Franchise of the BBQ Bar - the Polar Palace Resort and Dog Spa in Alaska. We are travelling on Samoa's Private Train - the "Flying Angel." Guess who that is named after?

It is very luxurious and the dining car is wonderful. We had a full breakfast this morning and the pancakes were perfectly flipped. You don't get that just anywhere. Samoa always does find the best chefs. He found this one under the boardwalk near the french fry stand. I guess it was napping. But even though we cannot figure out WHAT it is, it is a great chef.

More tomorrow on Day3!
Savvy!

My Wedding! And I Love All Pups on Dogster!

I do, I really do. It is probably because I am so wonderuffly happy! I am now Mrs. Demon Flash Bandit, but you can all still call me Savvy. I have to say up front, that it is just a TINY bit bittersweet since I heard from an old flame - Kierkegaard up in Alaska. He was my first pupfriend on Dogster! Kierke, I still love you too. But Demon is my true love. I have some really nice girlfriends that would LOVE to meet you! Write me and I will give you some addresses!

(I know that my writing this will not make Demon jealous. He understands that we both had lives before we met.)

anyway - the WEDDING! We had the ceremony at the Pier and all my friends and lot of new pups were there. I had on my gown, with the crystal edged lace and a corsage of pink and ivory roses. Demon looked SO handsome in his tux and so did all the groomsmen. Samoa was one of them, and he has come such a long way from the scruffy puppy that moved in with us just a year ago. My bridesmaids were Angel and Sukie Lou and the Matron of Honor was my dear friend Socks. (I made a horrible mistake and sent her to the wrong page, but she was on time anyway, and SO gracious about it. An extra glass of champagne to you, sister!) She also sent me a bouquet for the head table and a cake, which was SO welcome and delicious!

The ceremony went without a hitch, and even the Chihoohaas behaved and sang in the choir beautifully! They have very good voices when they are sober. Later they had a gas contest out behind the Dining Room, but at wedding receptions a LITTLE goofing off is welcome. A few birds showed up, but they were very orderly and respectful. It turns out that even some birds have problems with other birds and their nasty habits, so a few of them have joined the Pier club and are welcome there anytime!

The reception was great! We all had lots of wonderful food and refreshements thanks to Chi-Chi, the master chef at the Pier. And the decorations that the Beavers and Rabbits arranged were so lovely. I want to apologize to that one deer who was volunteering as a hatrack. I know why those pups kept pulling your tail, but it was all a misunderstanding and a rather rude joke, so I will get Samoa to explain it to you.

Now Demon and I have taken off on our wedding trip to Alaska, on board the Flying Angel Express. We are going to the Polar Pier, Samoa's Northern Resort. Angel and Samoa are going along and we will all write Diary Entries about the fun we have on our honeymoon!

Love, Love, Love!
Savannah!

I'm Getting Married in the Morning!

Well, actually about noon. But tomorrow, for sure. And if you have been reading my diary, you will know that you are all invited!

The groom (of course) is the handsome Demon Flash Bandit. I set my cap for him long ago, and I am the luckiest pup in the world right now!

We have a wedding page, which features a few pre-ceremony shots of Demon and I and my bridesmaids. More pictures will be added. We have to get a photo of my little brother Samoa and his fiance, Angel on there. She is one of the bridesmaids and looks just stunning in her baby silk gown. (We changed the color from royal blue - I think the pink suits the girls better.) They are holding yellow roses for these photos, but at the wedding the roses will be red for everlasting love.

Sigh.

The wedding is to be at my brother's place - the Sea Serpent Sighting Pier. He is opening at around 11, so the guests can arrive early and stroll around. The whole Pier is going to be decorated with roses and glittery snowflakes. It is SO lovely! After the ceremoney all guests are invited to dinner and dancing at the Crystal Ballroom. If you have pups, feel free to bring them - Samoa has arranged for pup-sitting services and they can tour the park while you enjoy the reception. Just follow the Fire Engine to the Ballroom! (Demon and I are riding to the Reception on one of Samoa's Fire Engines!)

Tonight is the Rehearsal and the Rehearsal Dinner. If you are part of the ceremony, please come early and come hungry. We are going to have a Chinese Buffet, and if you need to you can sleep over afterwards.

Oooooh! See you tomorrow!
Love, Savvy!

Our Holiday Message...

Mama asked me to write the Holiday Message since I am older and wiser than Samoa who has come a long way, but he is a crazy Australian so he still has a way to go. What I am supposed to express here is thanks for the wonderful year and all our friends and good fortune.

I do feel fortunate. I have been with Mama for two years and a couple months now, and I am very happy with both her and Grandma. They are silly hoomans and often confused but they do try to keep me and Samoa happy. I am also happy about Samoa. He has been in our house for a year tomorrow and he is a good little boy. He often gets silly, but I know he loves me in spite of the fact that he WILL hog the toys.

I am also happy for the Dear Drs. at the Veterinarians who always treat us nice even when we are having a panic attack. Thanks so much for the wonderful, magical DAP collar which is making me SO happy and calm! And Samoa says thanks for the 'biotics which he gets to take with a big glob of peanut butter. He says he knows it is good for him and he feels top notch, just by thinking about it.

Thanks to the Lovely Miss Jan at the boarding kennel. She loves and understands us. We are glad to have her to rely on when we need to.

Thanks to the Delightful young Dogster, Sunny Lee! She gifted us with the Dogster Plus subscription and we are enjoying it very much. Also, Sunny Lee - Samoa thinks you are cute, and I would like to add that our dear friend Bodhi is a very good match for you!

Thanks to our Fiances Demon and Angel and their Mama who write us everyday and make us smile.

Thanks to Darling Sukie Lou, Funny Devil Quinn, Good Friends Sully and Socks, The Adorable Obi (great backstory, guy - Samoa!) and Maxwell and Willow and Roxy and Kirby and Ella and Kodi and Kierke and in the cat category, Tia Esmeralda Seraphina and Bellsnickles!

Also thanks for the dear friends who have gone over the bridge. We will see you there someday. Rest easy and have fun! We think of you always.

So many things to say thanks for. We can't name them all! I am sure I will leave out somebody and think of it as I close this entry. But we do love all our friends and wish them the best. And (dear reader!) you are one of the things we are thankful for!

Love, Savannah and Samoa and the pack!

Christmas Visits and Two More Names.

I'll cover the names first. We still don't have a new dog to go with the name, but we are looking. So Mama wakes up one morning (for some reason) with the name "Beryl Markham" in her head. Ms. Markham was an early aviatrix which means she flew planes. She also wrote a really good book called "West with the Night" which told all about her interesting life. She grew up in Africa! Anyway - my Mama had no idea why she woke up thinking of Beryl Markham and then thought - maybe she could name the new dog that. But Beryl sounds like Barrel and if the dog was not barrel shaped, that would sound funny.

Soooooooo! Then she started thinking about places in Africa, 'cos she likes place names. She could only remember "Tsavo" from some movie where lions ate a lot of people, and that wasn't good. Then she thought of "Sahara." That goes real well with Samoa and Savannah, so we may end up using that.

THEN. Because she was thinking of deserts she thought of Mojave, which would shorten nicely to Mojo, which is a kind of magic. Or is also short for Mother Jones which is a magazine she sometimes reads.

So we might use that. Mother can give any pup a headache. But naming is a hobby of hers, and she doesn't get a lot of chances to name things, so she really gets into it when she does get the chance.

We also had a lovely Christmas visit to my cousins Maggie and Elle. They live in Pennsylvania and I love them. This is the first time they met Samoa and we all had a lot of fun. I think I will let him tell you all about the visit and the wonderful peanut butter cookies Auntie Grandma gave to us!

Love, Savannah!

I've been DAP'd!

And I am loving it! See, I am sort of a big baby (104.5 lbs!) and I am frightfully worried about some things. I get worried at the vets and at the kennel and I am worried about flyswatters and teaspoons and thunder and unknown persons and lightning and fireworks and ball point pens and all kinds of stuff.

And I have been getting worse. My Mama loves me and keeps me safe, but still I would get worried. So yesterday we went to the vets. I used to like to go to the vets, 'cos it smells cool and there are other pets and they got a really great cat in residence AND they give out cookies. Plus lots of pretty women work there and they would hug and kiss. It was wonderful. But the last time I went I was kinda spooky and this time I was really tense. They had to drag me in and then drag me out afterwards. I took the cookies but spit them back out and wouldn't let anybody hug me, though I did give the vet a big wet kiss. (She tastes good!)

So what they did (because they are VERY good to me there!) is they gave me a new collar. It is a little snug, and not very decorative, but it smells lovely - like my furmommie. I dreamed about her last night. She said I was a scaredy because my furdaddie was, and he still hides under the barn when there is a storm. She said she thinks about me a lot and sends her best wishes always. I get to go see her for real sometimes, she lives about 2 hours away - but it was real nice to dream about her anyway.

Mama told me the new collar will give me nice dreams, and it does! It is a DAP collar which is some kind of magical thing, even though it doesn't have any sparklies. I can add my own sparklies, maybe.

So lovely! So peaceful! Who cares about the teaspoons now?
Savannah!

Electric Holiday!

Ok, I have to write a diary entry about our neighborhoods fabulous Christmas or other Holiday (depending on your ethnicity) lights.

Indeed we have all sorts represented in our neighborhood and so the lights on the houses may have a variety of meanings, though I am sure they ALL represent high energy bills. The most spectacular on in the neighborhood (and remember - spectacular might not be a GOOD thing!) is across the street at the house where my girlfriend Sam lives. Sam is a girl, and her owner is an oddball. He has his house encrusted with globs of lights - they are not mingled colors, but spots of lights in one color or another. For example: the tree trunks have been wrapped in white lights, while the trees have loops of green or blue lights. The trees are the everpresent Bradford Pear trees and so the lights are wierdly suspended in the air. There are also not enough of them in the tree, it only has one sad string per tree so it looks like a line instead of a festive cluster.

But if you want clusters, he has those too. The bushes in his front garden are heaped with lights. They look like glowing mushrooms. And the display includes a dumpy looking illuminated snowmen and one of those deer that looks like it was made out of an old crab pot.

And as the Piece of Resistance! The lights are all connected to a sound system which plays jingly music that causes them to flash on and off and on and off and on and on and on.

Gah.

Next door to him is a house that is completely edged with blue lights. The are a pretty color of blue, but not a traditional holiday color. Mama says maybe they are Hanukah lights. There are thousands of them and they create a sort of outline of a house in the dark wintry nights. They are a pretty and soothing color, but it looks kinda odd.

Of course there are plenty more houses! I will write about a few more tomorrow. And I will also critique my own Mama's holiday decor, which could stand a little additional effort from her.

Savannah! Loving the Lights!

Wedding Plans!

As you all probably know, I am engaged to be married to a very special dog: Demon Flash Bandit. We have set the date of January 1st of 2009 and are going to be married at my brother Samoa's Place: Samoa's Pondside BBQ Bar and Sea Serpent Sighting Pier.

This may seem like a kind of casual place to have a wedding, but it has really developed from a simple BBQ shack and Reggae Bar to be a great resort and theme park. If you haven't been there, you DO want to try it.

All Dogster Pups are invited to the Wedding and to the Reception as well - none of that inviting to the wedding and then stiff you when the food comes out, no sir! And we are going to have a wonderful reception.

The Wedding will take place at 1 pm in the Chapel at the Pier! I am going to wear my Ivory Gown with Royal Blue Sash and some lovely winter white lace with crystals. Demon has a blue cummerbund to match. The Ushers are going to be my Brother Samoa, our chief of Security - Cho the Chow, and I think Demon's Hooman Brother may come also! My Bridesmaids are the Lovely Sukie Lou Phalanges, Sweet and Pretty Socks (Sully's Sister) and Angel, Demon's beautiful sister and Samoa's Fiance.

Afterwards, we can change into casual wear if you like, because Samoa is going to open up all the Pier attractions for free! It should be a blast! But first you will want to visit the Crystal Ballroom for a wonderful wedding buffet feast and some dancing! We are serving Salmon Alaska, Grilled Chicken with Bacon and all the best dishes to go with. There will be a HOOGE wedding cake and also a Groom's cake, baked by Chi-Chi our master baker. Music will be provided by Samoa and the Lowlights who are returning from semi-retirement for the occasion.

As I said, all are welcome. We are going to open the Pier at about 11-ish so you can come early and stroll around the grounds before the service. Refreshments will be available and also puppy sitting, if the little ones are restless.

See you there! It is going to be a wonderful day!

Love, Savannah!

One Vote, Two Name Suggestions!

My dear friend Sukie Lou has voted for the name "Juniper Moon." It is a pretty name.

Grandma likes the name Sukie very much, but Mama is afraid that it would cause Dogster Confusion, to borrow lovely Sukie's name. She says we could name it Sookie, but Sook is a regional name for a female blue crab - and somehow that just doesn't charm.

Two more names were suggested by fellow viewers of the ESPN dog athletic program. Both were dogs who participated in Frisbee catching, and we like them both. (Samoa points out that he would no doubt be a top Frisbee Dog if Mama would only develop her throwing arm!)

Anyway, those two names were "Banzai" and "Razzle." Both good names, we think. I confused Banzai with Bonsai, which is a hobby of mine, but Mama says it is not the same thing at all. I will have to check the dictionary. Sometimes, I suspect she is telling me stories.

Savannah!

Savannah's Top Ten Name Choices for New Years New Dog!

1. Kona Peach
2. Johnny Ringo (Jingo)
3. Juniper Moon
4. Samara Pearl
5. Bob Snarley
6. Boston Charlie (BoChuck)
7. Sukie Lou (we love you Sukie Lou!)
8. Saffron (Saffy Duck)
9. BeeBee (Buttercup Bonnie)
10. Unqualified Disaster (just kidding)

We would love to have suggestions, if anyone has a smashing name that they have been unable to use. Dog being named is not identified yet as to sex, color, coat - so all possibilities will be considered. Winner will be featured in an upcoming Diary Entry!

Savannah!

Wedding Music!

Demon and I are picking out some wedding music and so far we have chosen the lovely "Wedding Song" by Paul Stookey as our recessional and this tune: "If I Should Fall Behind" by Bruce Springsteen as our First Dance:

We said we'd walk together baby come what may
That come the twilight should we lose our way
If as we're walkin a hand should slip free
I'll wait for you
And should I fall behind
Wait for me

We swore we'd travel darlin side by side
We'd help each other stay in stride
But each lovers steps fall so differently
But I'll wait for you
And if I should fall behind
Wait for me

Now everyone dreams of a love lasting and true
But you and I know what this world can do
So lets make our steps clear that the other may see
And I'll wait for you
If I should fall behind
Wait for me

Now there's a beautiful river in the valley ahead
There neath the oaks bough soon we will be wed
Should we lose each other in the shadow of the evening trees
I'll wait for you
And should I fall behind
Wait for me
Darlin I'll wait for you
Should I fall behind
Wait for me

(isn't that lovely?)

Festival of the Electric Chicken!

We have a little spin on the usual Christmas Decorations down here on the shore. See, we do have pine trees but more people have the other kind of trees - decidous, which means they drop their leaves.

So instead of decorating the traditional Fir Tree, people are inclined to string lights in the trees that they happen to have in their front yard. This can create a strange effect. Because the tree is bare and has little substance the lights have a floating in the air effect and can take on shapes that have little to do with traditional holiday themes.

Like Chickens. Floating in the air. Maybe not such a bad theme for down here in the land Perdue built, but still - a little odd?

Samoa likes it - he sees nothing wrong with having an illuminated Chicken in your front yard. I guess a Chicken is as good as anything else, but a nice bell or wreath or reindeer would be more seasonal. The trees will not cooperate, for the most part they are Bradford Pears - the yard tree of choice locally which means after every Nor'easter, at least one tree goes down and in the Holidays we are graced with Electric Chickens!

Happy Chicken Days! Enjoy!
Savannah!

No Chunky.

Mama is watching the rescue pages, to see what dogs are coming up. We are probably going to get a 3rd companion if we can find a suitable candidate that doesn't weigh over 40 lbs., tops. They currently have a couple of nice looking shepherd mixes which I am sure Samoa would approve of, but they are only about half grown and already about 30 or 40 lbs. That is little compared to me, but would probably be bigger than Samoa when grown.

Mama says it must be smaller, that 3 "biggies" is more than she could handle. So tops should really be 30 lbs. But she might go to 40 if pressed.

I think she is going to dig in on this one. She also says that we have to wait until after the holidays. We will see about that, because once she gets started looking, she can't stop herself! Haha.

AND the other day a dog named "Chunky" showed up and I heard her telling Grandma how cute he was, and IF we could only go up and look! But the next day she looked at the page and Chunky was already gone - home to a happy new family. That is great - but I want a Chunky of my own. A nice little chubby dog to talk to and hug.

Not a crazy long legged Aussie this time. A little cuddle bug.
Savannah!

PLEASE don't eat the Chicken Feathers!

I don't know where they came from, but there they were. Right out in the middle of an empty field.

I was feeling pretty good this morning, and all set for our extra long Sunday walk to get the paper. We need the Sunday ads because they are so fun to shred and so decorative when we leave them all over the kitchen floor. On the way we got to chase some geese and everything was going great until on the way back. I found those feathers.

I didn't eat many of them, only a few. But right away I felt all fluttery and not so good. We went home ok, though and I waited on the porch for my stomach to settle. After a while it felt ok, so I went in and had my beffus.

And then I didn't feel so good at all.

After Mama got it cleaned up she gave me a little dry food and some crackers. I ate that and now am sleeping it off. Gotta stay out of those feathers, for sure!

Queasy Savannah!

Sigh. All I Want for Christmas...it's a kinda long list.

I have lots of good stuff and I want to keep it. I want some more stuff if at all possible, and I feel sure that I will get it. Mama is always getting us stuff. And we always have lots to eat and a warm, dry place to sleep. And lots of attention and love.

I want that for all the other pups. That is why this is a looooooooong list. If I could put all their names down here, I would. And it would be very long. But that isn't all.

I also want all the pups who have gone to the bridge to be happy and never feel pain or anxiousness or hunger or anything bad - and I want the hoomans who loved them to feel this is true and not miss them too badly. It is so hard to leave our hoomans, and we miss them too. But when we go to the bridge we know we will ALL be there someday and it will be even better than life on earth. I know this is true, 'cos my little Angel Sister, Cotton - she visited me in a dream and told me.

I look forward to playing with her someday, but she told me for now my job is to play with Mama and keep her happy. That works for me!

Love to all Pups and Peeps and special love to Sheba, Maya and their hoomans!

Sheba!

Sheba, I will see you in my dreams. We can run and play! And one day I will play with you on the other side of the bridge. Have a safe journey beautiful girl!

Savannah!

Lemonhead.

Mama has been waiting for a mister she used to work with to cross her path again. When she got me and read my pedigree about 4 generations back was a dog named Sterrett's River Raider. Sterrett was the guy Mama used to know and she wanted to tell him she had a dog from his line.

He came in to her work yesterday and she finally told him. He was relatively unimpressed. Says he doesn't breed Labs anymore and asked what I looked like and when Mama told him he said "Another Big Lemonhead."

Well, it beats Moosedottir, I guess. Mama said when she was a little girl Lemonheads were her favorite candy to eat at the movies, 'cos they were cheap, came in a big box and made her all puckery. You could also launch them if the movie wasn't any good and you got bored. (Yes, Mama was THAT kind of a kid.)

So being a Lemonhead could be a good thing, I guess.

In other news, Samoa's neighborhood twin has been on a rampage. It is this dog who looks something like Samoa who gets loose all the time and runs around. We are sure that the neighbors think that he belongs with us. That neighbor who said she was going for the guns is probably all riled up. And it isn't even us. Mama says "just LET her say anything!" I think she wants another chance to tell the lady off, since she didn't do a good job last time, being so astounded at the woman's nuttiness.

Me, I just hope that the crazy lady doesn't start shooting!
Savannah!

I Love Peanut Butter

Well, there's a food going 'round and it's a sticky, sticky goo
- Peanut, peanut butter
It tastes to good, but it's so hard to chew
- Peanut, peanut butter
Puppies everywhere, they think it's the most
- Peanut, peanut butter
Early in the morning they put it on their toast
- Peanut, peanut butter

Chorus: I like peanut butter, creamy peanut butter, chunky peanut butter, too!

The old dog started barking in the middle of the night
- Peanut, peanut butter
He woke up all my neighbors, He almost caused a fight
- Peanut, peanut butter
So he ate some peanut butter just to help him quiet down
- Peanut, peanut butter
He chewed himself to sleep and he never made a sound
- Peanut, peanut butter
Chorus

I went to a dinner party and what did they eat?
- Peanut, peanut butter
I took a big bite and it stuck to my teeth
- Peanut, peanut butter
Puppies going 'round look like they got the mumps
- Peanut, peanut butter
They were eating peanut butter in great, big hunks
- Peanut, peanut butter

YUM!

No Time to Write!

Savvy is FAR TOO busy to write today - she is in the other room eating all the leftovers. That is her job.

Since she can't write, I have composed this lovely poem for her (ok, ok! I stole it off the internet and changed the words. That is how all great poets get their start - you can look it up!)

Anyway, here is a lovely poem for Savvy's Boyfriend to read. Hehehehe.


I saw Savvy kissing Santa Claus
Underneath the mistletoe last night
She didn't see me creep
down the stairs to have a peep;
She thought that I was tucked
up in my bedroom fast asleep
Then
I saw Savvy tickle Santa Claus
Underneath his beard so snowy white;
Oh
what a laugh it would have been
If Demon had only seen
Savvy kissing Santa Claus last night!

(Samoa didn't write this, no he didn't!)

Dance around in circles and sing this song! It will make you- happy!

Have a holly, jolly Christmas;
It's the best time of the year
I don't know if there'll be snow,
but have a cup of cheer.
Have a holly, jolly Christmas;
And when you walk down the street
Say Hello to friends you know
and everyone you meet.

Oh, ho, the mistletoe
hung where you can see;
Somebody waits for you;
Kiss her once for me.
Have a holly jolly Christmas,
and in case you didn't hear,
Oh by golly, have a holly,
jolly Christmas this year.

(Seasons Greetings from Savannah!)

Johnny Ringo?

My only hope is that a couple of dozen dogs are suddenly registered with this name. Because Mama likes original names and she checked Dogster - no Johnny Ringos so far. She claims she is going to name our new adoptee that. And call it "Jingo." (Only 4 on Dogster.)

Maybe the Rescue Organization will find out and not let her adopt unless she changes her mind.

We liked the other choice "Kona Peach" SO much better.

She does change her mind. A lot.

So everypup keep your paws crossed for us.

My Favorite Howliday!

Is Thanksgiving, I think. I like most of them, but this one comes with a guaranteed Turkey, roasted and maybe served with some tasty buttered potatoes!

And there is a LOT to be thankful for, leaving out the Bird and Spuds! I am thankful that I have such a nice home and loving Mama and Grandma! I am thankful for my crazy little brother, Samoa (even when he nips!) I am thankful for the everyday dish of food and clean water that is always there for me. I am thankful for the walks, long and short. I am thankful for the pond I can swim in.

I am thankful for all my lovely friends on Dogster and Catster (Oh, I better not leave out Mysterious Max - of course I am thankful for him!) And I am thankful for my Dear Fiance, Demon - his lovely sister, Angel and all my special friends. (Sukie, Socks and Sully - I am looking at you pups!)

And I think we are all thankful to the wonderful hoomans who run the rescues and animal sanctuaries and Humane Societies. They deal with pain and sorrow, and do miracles to make that turn to happiness and love! What wonderful work they do! Let's all be Thankful for them tomorrow! And everyday! (A special Sing Out to the wonderful staff of the Caroline County Humane Society!)

Thanks!
Savannah and Samoa and Their Mama and Angel Sibs!

We arrive home by Luxury Train!

I have to admit that I slept most of the way back, in the luxury train car that Samoa rented for us. He doesn't like flying, so he decided to come home by train and rented us all a luxury sleeping car with a seperate dining and game car that we could all get together in. I think that Samoa and our dear friend Sukie spent a fair amount of time in the game car - she was trying to teach him poker, but he is pretty hopeless. I think they decided to just let Sukie play and Samoa pay - he has a lot of money, but tends to lose at cards. Better he should spend him money on luxury train cars and that kind of stuff.

Now he says he wants to buy his own railroad to take pups up to the Snow Palace for vacations. He says they might as well buy a nice package trip. He is giving big discounts, so if your hoomans are going to leave you in a kennel over Thanksgiving, you might want to book a trip up and enjoy yourselves. It is a great place!

Listen - if you do go, you could do me a favor. I need to increase my order of Alaska Salmon. I think I better overbuy for the wedding reception 'cos I am afraid I might not have enough. You could take a note from me to the Fish Purveyor. If you do, you can come to the wedding and reception.

Well, you can come anyway - but you might need to bring your own fish, unless I can get this order up there! We are planning on having Salmon Alaska which is Salmon wearing a little pastry parka! It is both tasty and VERY cute!

Love, Savannah!

This Could be the Start of a Beautiful Friendship!

I have a new friend here on Dogster - the Lovely and Warmhearted Sunny Lee. We met her because she posted about a dear dog that needs a home. We have been thinking of adopting, and so Mama (who KNOWS she has to wait until the 1st of the year!) contacted her for the details.

The bad news, is we can't adopt at this time. The good news is that Sunny Lee and her two cat companions are now among our dearest friends. They even bought us a subscription to Dogster Plus! Yow!

So we want to give a big shout out to Sunny Lee (a lovely dog who very much resembles yours truly!) and her Mama and her two delightful kitty pals!

Sunny Lee you are the Greatest!

Everybody say YEAH! for Sunny Lee!

xxxxxxxxxxxxoooooooooooooooooxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxoooooooo oo

Romantic Alaskan Holiday!

It is my turn to do the update on our fabulous and romantic Alaskan Holiday! As you know, we are staying at Samoa's resort hotel in Alaska - called the Snow Palace. We are having a wonderful time and if you get a chance to visit you really should. Let me know and I will arrange a discount for you.

This place is fantastic! The suites have Soup on Tap and you can request whatever kind you like from the kitchen! Then all you have to do is pull the tap and fill your dish. We have had Salmon Chowder, Turkey Noodle and some REALLY good Goose Stew!

Last night the hotel held an "All North" costume party. I went as a Moose, since the staff has playfully given me the title of "Moosedottir" which means I have the statuesque grace of an elegant Moose, I think. Samoa laughs every time someone calls me that. He is currently going around dressed in the Royal Canadian Mountie uniform that he wore to the costume party. He does look pretty sharp in it, I have to say!

Today we are all going on a daytime sleigh ride to see the sights - the Polar Bears make great guides - they really know the area and can show you all around. Plus they can cover ground at a smooth and rapid rate! Such an exciting ride.

Now, about Samoa's comment on MY sled pulling activity! Demon, my fiance - says that pulling too hard is a common beginners mistake. When the two of us were "hitched" ~giggle~ together everything went smoothly. The Stowaway ChiHooHaas enjoyed the ride. Since they came in Samoa's luggage, I am making him keep them in his suite, and Angel is being SO patient with them. Currently she has them dressed in darling little snowsuits and they are out on the grounds playing miniature snowball battle!

More tomorrow! Savannah!

Fried Chicken or Dog Food - You Make the Call.

It isn't a hard question if you are asking me - the answer is both. And some Lasanee if you got it. We got it, so why not eat it? I had to wait until very late for dinner because Mama had to work late. It is true, there was plenty of dry food left for me, because Mama doesn't want me to go hungry. And I ate some, but I really wanted a snack by the time she got home.

Samoa did too. So we sat real close to her, while she was being updated on the daily dramas (don't ask!) and we looked at her, like she was our last hope! That usually works.

It worked last night, too. We shared a small portion of leftover lasagna and then we got a dish of dog food. THEN Mama thought she could have a bite to eat, and she decided to eat the leftover piece of Fried Chicken.

Of course, we were thoughtful and shared it with her. It was a large piece and we all got a nice bite. Then we went to bed. It was a nice meal.

This morning I was still full, so I skipped breakfast, but I am already sorry. Maybe Mama will feel like making spaghetti tonight. I love that Italian Stuff.

Savannah!

What do you think of this?

OK, I forgot to tell you all about what happened this morning. See, I have been undergoing "remedial walking" training and it is a drag, let me tell you! But I put up with it, or Mama might go so far as to take me back to obedience class and that would be so embarrassing to have to go to school with a bunch of little puppies.

So today, my hard work in trying to get Mama's head straight about how and when to walk paid off. When we were coming back into the yard she saw a dog standing - loose - in our front yard. Rather than have to deal with us going wild at the sight of it, she wisely unhitched us and turned us loose. She didn't try to hang on until we ran her into the car or a tree. So she is trainable after all! We went over and greeted the dog and when we were good and ready - we went back into the yard.

Later, though - I heard her talking to Grandma who is worried about us getting out of the house when Mama isn't here. Mama said she could leave our collars on, and Grandma said - no that makes us scratch too much. And all the jingling tags are a nuisance. So Mama is going to get us nice leather collars with little plates on with our phone number in case we get out and away. We can get these as part of our Christmas Presents! We hope she will get our name on them, but she swears she is going to get them engraved with this message "Awful Dog - to make sure don't get stuck with it, please call: (phone number)"

I hope she just puts our name on it. Don't you think she should?
Savannah!

Arf! to Alaska!

So far we are having a lovely time up here in the frozen north. Samoa has to wear two sweaters and a Parka because he is not a cold weather breed. But Labradors were used to fetching nets in the Sea of Labrador (brrrr!) and Huskies like Demon and Angel are used to all kinds of cold weather activities. My girlfriend Sukie, has to wear a coat too, but she has the cutest little ski ensemble! Really, I wish I had one like it!

Anyway, we were greeted at the hotel by a barrage of snowballs - seems that is the traditional way of greeting your new boss - and Samoa just bought this hotel as an investment, so he IS the boss! The waiters toweled him off right away and escorted us all indoors to the cafe for a delicious lunch of Salmon Chowder! The flight and the warm soup made me very drowsy, so Demon and I are retiring to our suite for a nice nap before we take part in some of the evening activities. Samoa, Angel and Sukie are going to check out the gift shoppes, but will probably end up watching a movie until dinnertime and then we will meet up again. After dinner (more salmon on the menu!) We can either go to the arena to watch the Team Based Snowball Fights, or we can see an ice show or take a sleigh ride on the Polar Bear Sightseeing Tours! I think I would like to do that! You get to see the Northern Lights and drink cocoa while snuggling with your honey in the sleigh!

Yawn! I better go stretch out for a while or I won't be awake in time for dinner!

Savannah!

Hunting with the Ghost Pack...

On Sundays one of our jobs is to walk Mama down to the store so she can buy a newspaper for us to shred up. She needs us to go with her, because she gets lost. Everytime we go a different way, and everytime we have to help her find the store. Apparently, she can't remember which way to go.

So this Sunday we were off early, as usual. She likes to get up early on Sunday, so we make sure to bark around 6:30 so she doesn't sleep too late. You see what a help we are! We have to wait while she drinks a cup of coffee, but we make sure to help her wake up by jumping on her from time to time to help her get alert.

After that, we go to the store. But the interesting stuff is what happened on the way back. This time, we let her choose the way and she started up across this empty field where a house used to be, but it isn't anymore. Behind where it used to be are two old sheds and a dog kennel. The dog kennel is very large, with several shelters and a big run. It is all old and falling down. Mama said it was probably for hunting beagles. It must have been empty a long time, 'cos I couldn't smell 'em. But as we walked away, I am sure I heard one of them bay.

Later, after we got home I was taking a little nap before breakfast (had to wait for the eggs to cool!) and I had a dream. I was running with a bunch of beagles and we were after something I couldn't see. It was up ahead of us in the fog, and the beagles were running and running. And so was I, until I woke up. And then I ate some eggs and thought about beagles.

Hello to all you ghostly beagles and to those of you who aren't.
Savannah!

Our Alaskan Holiday!

We are taking a little holiday trip to the land of Northern Lights and Happy Moosies! We are going to Alaska! That is my fiance Demon Flash Bandit, his little sister Angel Zoom Smokey and my bro. and Angel's fiance - Samoa SunnyBear Bell. We have also asked my dear friend Sukie Lou to come along. Both her and Angel are going to be bridesmaids at my wedding, and also another dear friend - Socks.

Anyway, there is lots to see in Alaska - my little brother owns a resort hotel there which he calls the Snow Palace. They have a big indoor arena for snowball contests and they have sleigh rides (with Polar Bear sleigh pullers!) and a heated pool and a great restaurant that featured fresh salmon.

It is a little getaway time, after all the election hubub and a chance to relax a little before the wedding planning gets in full gear. As you may know - we have set a date! New Years Day!

Everyone is invited, and to both the wedding and the reception! They will be at the Pier, and if you wear something blue (that is my signature color) you get a prize. You can also ride on the rides all day for free. (After the ceremony, of course!)

I hope you will all come. Don't worry about missing the parades or football games, we are going to have a giant screen football parlor right at the reception, so if you want you can watch and have your dinner at the same time. And if you would rather dance, you can join me and Demon on the dance floor! See you there, I hope!

Savannah!

Fireman's Dog!

Not me, of course - I am my Grandma's Girl and she is not a Fire Person, but a Grandma. Much more comfortable. But I did meet and play with a Fireman's Dog, just last night. See, Mama came home with an armful of boxes for Grandma to put stuff in. I don't know what stuff, and don't really care. That is what you call "beside the point."

However, the boxes proved to be helpful, since it allowed me to escape from the house as the door was opened wide to admit Mama and the boxes. At first I just frolicked around the yard to try to get Mama to chase me, but she didn't. She was calling me to see if this was one of the times I would listen.

It wasn't.

As I moved around the yard, I became aware of a hooman standing across the street. And he had a Dog With Him. It was Fireman K. the Redneck! That is what Mama calls him now. He has a name, but like the TV shows, names have been changed in this Diary Entry! Anyway, across the street I darted and found that Fireman K's dog was loose! It was a Black, Skinny dog with short hair. Fireman K. calls it Sammy (not Samoa.) It loves to run, and so we ran and ran and Mama came out but I was having too much fun. She talked to Fireman K. for a couple of minutes and that is how she knows he is a redneck. Then she went back for my leash, because plainly - she was going to have to rope me and drag me home.

The whole time you could hear Samoa crying because he wanted to come over too, but got shut into the house. Mama came back with the leash and by that time I was winded, so I let her catch me. She was telling Grandma that Fireman K. is a racist and a redneck, but I don't care - I am going back to visit Sammy the dog, because she is NOT. She is just a dog that loves to run. That is more proof that dogs are smarter than hoomans.

Savannah!

So? Will there be 3 of us?

Mama says maybe. She is thinking about names. She wants a little-ish dog, but one that can enjoy some rugged sport with Big Me and Semi-Big Samoa. She misses her old Cocker Spaniel and thinks one of those would be good. Or maybe a JRT. A JRT would certainly keep us on our toes! Or a mutt, like Samoa and the president - elect.

We like that he calls himself a mutt. We are all mutts, Mama included. She is a hyphenated breed type herself. (I am a purebred, but with houndish inclinations!) Samoa is Aussie or Border Collie / Something and Mama is French/Scots-Irish. And we are All American!

We would prefer to go to a humane society and will probably check out the situation at Samoa's origin with the good people at Caroline County Humane. Hey Pals! Be visiting soon!

We will probably wait until after the holidays so that we don't have so many people coming and going.

Now, as far as names go... Today's Dog of the Day is named "Kona" and Mama likes that. It needs another name too, and a color, and a Bell. Maybe "Kona Pink Belly."

If it is small enough, Demon and I can adopt it and pretend it is our own little baby. Sigh!

Savannah!

Goose Chasing Season Is Here!

How I enjoy the sport of goose chasing! Of course, they are always around to some extent. In the summer time a few of them hang around the pond, but it just isn't the same as Goose Chasing Season, when there is a nip in the air and a pup just feels like chasing those big fat honkers up into the sky, where they belong.

This past weekend, I got three good sessions of chasing in. First we went down the schoolyard and there were some in a cornfield nearby. The corn had been plowed down, so Mama gave me and Samoa the go ahead to chase 'em. Then the stoopid honkers just moved over into the next field, so we chased 'em again.

Then we found some in a field near the pond and we chased them!

I saw some more in a field behind a fence, but Mama said they are only fair game in the open field, so I had to just hurl a few threats at them and be on my way. Another Day, Goosies!

I'll get you in the Open Field and all you will be able to do is Honk!

Savannah!

Wedding Bells, Sleigh Bells, Savannah Blue Belles!

Well, now that all that election flutter is over, I can settle down to serious matters like my upcoming wedding to Demon Flash Bandit. I am meeting him this afternoon at the Pier for dinner and am going to suggest a New Years Wedding! New Years Eve or New Years Day, whichever.

I already have the wedding plans all made, and we can get married at the Pier, so the arrangements can go quickly. I have a dress and the bridesmaids are all ready to go, and the cake can be ordered in a flash from my girlfriend Chi-Chi LaBamba, French Poodle and Master Baker!

We will probably honeymoon in Alaska! Everyone is invited, and formal invitations will go out soon. And not just to the wedding, either, you are ALL invited to the reception which will be at Samoa's BBQ Bar and Sea Serpent Sighting Pier. (that is my Brother's place!)

I will update you as I get more details. This is SO exciting!

Savannah!

Almost Election Day!

I am having rather a case of the nerves! Tomorrow is Election Day, and of course, we expect my Fiance - Demon Flash Bandit - to win. The polls are a LITTLE closer than I can be comfortable with. I expect that is because of the phone polling methods don't catch very many dogs. Most of us have to use our persons phones and of course, when the polls are taken the hoomans always say they are going to vote for McCain or Obama.

Most of us Dogs are going to vote, too!

Vote for Demon Flash Bandit! You will be glad you did!

(Oh, and I think I will be a pretty nice first dogstress! I don't spend much on clothes, 'cos I run around nekkid most of the time. And I don't expect to spend a lot on furniture - curtains block the view and any old sofa will do for a nap. Not big on fancy china either - I have a favorite dog dish already. So we can save plenty taxpayer money!)

Savvy!

Fabulous Big Election Rally!

For my fiance, Demon Flash Bandit and his running mate and sister Angel Zoom Smokey!

We are holding a great big event on Sunday at the Pier and it is going to be a blow out. We have lots of entertainment lined up, with Dancing and Singing Chihoohaas, Juggling Monkeys, Snow Slides, Choo-Choo Rides, and of course, a festive buffet!

Demon and Angel will be giving some rallying speeches, and pups and kitties and other critters can cast their votes early at the walk in Early Voting Booths, next to the Grand Buffet Hall! Each Critter that votes will get a ticket to the All You Eat Buffet!

Lets raise awareness, get out the vote, get a good dinner and get ready for Election Day!

Yours, Savannah Blue Belle
Maryland Election Chair
Demon Flash Bandit for President Campaign!

Wedding Update!

I haven't talked about my upcoming marriage to our next President, Demon Flash Bandit, lately. It isn't because we have broken it off or anything, oh no! We have been SO busy in planning his campaign appearances and speeches and doing interviews. Plus, he has to fit in some fun, and naps and stuff.

But I am still arranging my trousseau and we are still planning on a Winter Wedding. And my dear brother Samoa has invited Demon and I to join him and his fiance on a trip to Alaska where he is developing a new theme park called the Polar Park. Since the Northern White House is going to be in Alaska (TRUST ME - you won't be finding Sarah Palin anywhere near the place) it will be good to take a little visit and check out the area. And it will also be good to take a break from the campaign trail.

Samoa very agreeably bought me some new luggage - I needed some! And a set of snowpants and parka in case it gets too cold for me. I don't mind the cold, but it was thoughtful of him. Demon is a Husky so the cold won't bother him. I think we are going just after the election next week. Of course, we can't miss election day, or the election night victory party. Wow, is that going to be fun! You can all consider yourselves invited! To help us celebrate our first Canine President!

Savannah!

If I had the wings of a goose!

Now if I had the wings of a goose over these open fields
I would fly!
And I'd fly until I caught those goosies -
And then I'd make them into pie!

That is a lovely song, and so sentimental. It makes me remember hearing the geese fly overhead when I was just a wee pup in the snuggle with my 14 brothers and sisters. Of course, we were too young to appreciate the idea of chasing geese, but to hear my Fur Mama's soft voice singing this song of the hunt and of the comforts of warm Goose Gravy is a dear puphood memory.

I'll bet my brothers and sisters dream of those days too. Mama (the last time I saw her) said they are all doing well - though she said I have done particularly well in choosing my hoomans. I get to go visit Fur Mama a couple of times a year since her and Papa live just about 2 hours away. I would like them to meet Samoa, but he gets carsick and so that wouldn't work too well.

I was thinking about them when I napped today because just last night a fat bunch of Canada Geese sailed over while I was on my evening walkies. Even though they were flying low, they were out of my reach and I remembered the words of that song.

If I had the wings of a goose!
over these open fields
I would fly!
And I'd fly until I caught those goosies -
And then I'd make them into pie!

Savannah - enjoying Autumn and the flights of fat geese!

My Great Escape!

It was great, what can I tell you! It WAS very short, but the quality of it more than makes up for its brevity. This is how it happened.

I had already had a morning walk and breakfast. I had a short post-breakfast nap and then it became plain that Mama and Grandma were preparing to go out. Usually when that happens, little Samoa and I pile up and take a really nice long nap to get ready for afternoon walkies, after they get home.

This time, I felt a little too restless. So when Grandma slipped out the door, I charged it before it could close all the way. I was motivated by the fact that a strange pickup was in our yard - a WHITE pickup. Nothing gets me as excited as a white pickup. I can't explain it, but it is a fact. So through the door I charge. Past Grandma and down the steps. Grandma yells for Mama who comes out the door after me, slamming it in Samoa's face so he can't escape as well.

By this time the pickup was out of the driveway and into the next one. It turned out to be the electrical meter man, but I didn't know this at the time. I charged his pickup and he jumped back inside! I ran wildly around the yard while Mama despaired of catching me. Mama yells to the electrical meter man "don't worry, she is harmless!" So he got back out of his truck and I took that opportunity to get into it. Nice upholstery. Mama had to climb in after me and drag me out. What fun!

I think Mama needs to get a white pickup to drive me around in, don't you? Or maybe I could go for a ride with the electrical meter man?

After all this, Mama wrestled me back into the house and THEN I took a nap.

Savannah!

B.F.F.

Samoa is really a dear little guy, once you get past his crumb covered exterior. He is a messy eater, that is true. And when he is damp, he will roll in dust or sand which creates an overall "Pig Pen" appearance. All this is just part of his personality, though.

Last night he was very cuddly, because it has grown a little cold around here. We had a great day yesterday, running around the fields and woods and were extra tired. Samoa had a small belly ache from eating stuff he shouldn't, but was sleeping on the other side of the room, nice and quiet. But then he told me he needed to go outside.

He is not the barker in this house, I am. So I barked for Mama, but apparently without conviction because she did not come out. I barked again and she did, but when I wasn't by the door to go out she said "go to sleep!"

So I had to bark and third time, forcefully. She came muttering down the hallway, and turned the light on. I was able to show her that it was Samoa who needed to go out, not me. (I swear - you always hear these stories of dogs rescuing people and stuff. Their people must be brighter than mine. It takes so LONG to explain anything to this bunch!)

So out Samoa goes and he thanked me. A little later I barked (again forcefully) to remind Mama that he needed to come back in. After he got inside he was chilly so he snuggled up with me and we slept the rest of the night all cuddled together.

This is why I love having a little brother, even one with crumbs and sand.

Savannah!

OOOOOOOooooooh! Tricky Treating!

This is my 3rd Halloween. My boyfriend, Demon Flash Bandit (vote for him for president!) has another one of his wonderful ideas. He thinks that dogs should get to go trick-or-treating instead of hooman children. I am all for that. I won't have any trouble finding a costume and I already have a very large bag that I would SO enjoy filling up with all kinds of candy.

Or other food. Like if somebody ran out of candy and wanted to give me a hot dog or a chicken nugget, that would be fine. Cheese would also be good. Or hamburgers. Or Pizza if it isn't too spicy.

And why shouldn't we get to go? We are cute and lovable and we love snacks and treats. Costumes are fun if you can find one that fits. (I myself am rather large, and that can be an issue) But walking up and down in the dark with flashlights would be lots of fun!

Because we live in a "rural" area a lot of hoomans will drive up in their cars and stop at the end of the driveway to let the kids come up to the house. That would give Mama something to do - she could drive us around to get our goodies. I am sure Samoa would like to come. He is a hog. If somebody gave him stale bread he would be happy - he will eat anything.

Just this morning he ate my half a hot dog while I was trying to get a grip on it. He is very fast.

I wonder if Cats would like to trick or treat? - I'll bet Max the Cat would enjoy it. He is able to walk through walls, you know! I have seen him do it. One minute he is inside and the next thing you know he is not. Magic, I guess.

Savannah! Trick or Treating that is for SURE!

Bubble Bath!

My dear Samoa has written an unflattering column addressing my tendency to roll. In stuff. Some of it not smelling very fresh.

I am lucky complexion wise. I shed dirt well, so it is easy to maintain a nice yellow coat in spite of my rolling habit. This will sometimes add up to a surprise to the olfacatory sense, since when my aroma makes it to the nostrils hoomans are likely to say ick. Or even "ICK!"

Even Auntie Grandma told me I smell like a pond. I think the pond smells real good. Sort of like Mud. What is wrong with that?

Anyway, I have to say I had a lovely experience yesterday. It was a bubble bath with extra bubbles. And then as part of the spa treatment, I had a lovely cool rinse with the hose. This tightens up the fur follicles and leaves one with a lovely fresh coat. Smells like pine trees, and I am sure even the hoomans have no problem with that. I am going to feel so special walking this evening in my nice clean fur. And with my new Ruby Blocks pattern collar. I look good.

I smell good. And if I need to roll, you bet I am gonna do it.

Roller Liberation for Dogs!
Savannah!

Miss Congeniality!

We watched Animal Planet last night - a show called Dogs 101. It featured different breeds of Dogs and one on this week was the Labrador Retriever. We are very good dogs! Very good swimmers and very loving companions. Canine Athletes and all around great personalities.

We win the Congeniality Prize! (we are not the smartest - Border Collies won that. They showed a Border Collie that looked just like my little brother Samoa - so now he thinks he is a genius! We don't know if he is a Border Collie or not - the Humane People said maybe Aussie. But he still thinks he is smart!)

But I am an Athlete and good natured. I have WEBBED FEET! I can swim faster than a duck! I can haul in water and run in speed bursts and fetch like nobody's business!

Cool Stuff!

We have been on vacation, and had a great time. We got stuff painted and had long walks in the woods and got all itchy, so had baths and swam some. We watched movies on TV and had company with Ham Sandwiches.

But it is good to be back!

Love, Savannah!

Slippery Football Fun!

The green football with the flame shapes on it has run out of air. I think I may have had something to do with that, but who really knows? Anyway - in a way it is even more fun than before. 'Cos now you can get a grip on it and play tug o war. I have an advantage in tug o war 'cos I outweigh Samoa about 2 to 1.

He, however, has a good grip and very pointed teeth and the ability to throw himself down and become dead weight. I have to drag him around the room and still can't shake him off.

Since last night he has also discovered the technique of yapping shrilly if I have something he wants. It got Mama out of bed last night. Twice. That was fun.

When that happens we both just sit and blink at her and express "is there a problem?" silently and with expectant eyes. She spoke both our names in that TONE but could not determine the culprit at first. On the second trip out she did, because Samoa's bark is higher pitched than mine, especially when he yaps. I don't yap, though sometimes I do mutter.

Anyway - the football gets nice and slippery and we tug and tug on it, but so far neither of us has won a match. We are going to do some more of it today and see if we can't get some rules established. Like if I drag him two feet or more, I win.

Savannah!

Some Really Exceptional Sand...

There is some new sand in the sand pit at the Schoolyard. You know the one on the playground with the sign that says "Toddler Town." It has the little digging machines? Anyway, they refilled the sand pit - 'cos the old sand had gone all gray and lifeless. Now it has some really good sand - kind of orangey in color and full of interesting smells. It feels really nice between the toes.

I shoved Samoa over in it a couple of times to see if it felt good to him, he said it did. He rolled in it awhile and then came up all stuck with orange sand. It is a good look for him.

Great Sand. You should check it out.

Maybe I'll see you there.
Savannah!

Dual Citizenship and the Last of the Three Dog Bakery- Cookies.

I ate it. I might as well confess. I know they are Samoa's particular favorites, it even says so on his page. (Mine says Cheese.)

BUT - there was one left and it looked lonely. Also delicious. My Compliments to the Three Dog Bakers because those Peanut Butter Carob Cookies are the best cookies in the world. I will ask Mama to buy more and more of them and make you all ridiculously rich. You SHOULD be rewarded.

Now, about this whole citizenship squabble. Samoa is causing a ruckus (as usual) because he has been fussing over politics so much and over the fact that a car ran into our car and dented it all up. I am not sure why this should be such an issue, he doesn't even like the car. He gets carsick.

I love the car and I love taking rides in it. The dents do not even bother me, except if it is raining it leaks a little around the back. The worst part is that we have to use a rental and Mama says no dogs in the rental. Dang.

But because of all his fussing, we might end up having to move to Canada. See he started out by blaming the whole thing on Sarah Palin and then got the Canadians into it and when he gets started he just doesn't know where to stop. He made some Canadian dogs annoyed. He is good at annoying! So I sat on him for a while and reminded him that Labrador is in Canada so in fact WE are part Canadian (in his case also part Australian.) I think that is the part that keeps him confused. He is used to looking at things upside down and it confuses him.

And then he confuses everybody else! So apologies to Canada and to Australia!

Love, Savannah!

2 Dogs, 4 Birthdays!

Mama says Samoa and I are going to have a rolling birthday celebration since this weekend she has to work on our actual birthday. So today (Friday) we are having a big party at the Pier and we will enjoy treats and snacks with all our friends.

In the non-virtual world we are promised extra long and interesting walkies, some leftover meatloaf and an invitation to watch the Presidential Debates while resting on the sofa.

Tomorrow, We are going to be presented with a selection of new toys. I am going to get a Giant Fuzzy Tennis Ball and Samoa is going to get a Football, because he has really been wanting one. Also, maybe we can go swimming.

Sunday we are getting Scrambled Eggs and Cheese for breakfast and some new fuzzy toys to play with while Mama works. We will have Chinese Carry out for Dinner. (Well, maybe a taste?)

Monday we get our own Barkday Dinner of Stewed Chicken and Mashed Potatoes. I am SO looking forward to it!

Love, Savannah!

Bring me that horizon...

I can now see much further across the planet than I could just two short days ago. I can not see Russia from my house, but I can see across to the houses on the other side of the cornfield which has been mowed. One of them has a red roof so no doubt is part of the former Soviet Union. Therefore I am probably experienced enough in Foreign Affairs to ask for a seat on the cabinet when my boyfriend, Demon Flash Bandit, wins the Presidential Election.

I mean, it isn't like I wanted to be Vice President or anything. And I do know quite a lot about cornfields! And Geese, who surely represent some kind of threat to national security. Their poop is GREEN for gosh sakes and that has to be bad news.

I have borrowed an old pair of glasses that were my Mamas. They are extra large frames, and I have poked the glass out because I can see better without it. But the frames look really cool and I might get a new bouffant hairstyle.

Or maybe not. I will think about it over the weekend while eating Samoa's share of the birthday cake. I think the little sneak has already eaten mine because he has icing on his chops and is sleeping it off in the corner.

Savannah!

Napping is a Priority...

I am glad that we have Demon Flash Bandit prepared to step into the Presidency. He has the best interests of Dogs at Heart. For instance, naptime. We all know how important naptime is - it is right up there with Eating in the latest opinion polls. If you are tired, you can't enjoy your dinner. And if you are hungry, it is hard to have a really relaxing nap. So both things are of crucial importance!

I'll bet Sarah Palin doesn't know anything about any of this. For one thing, she was a "beauty queen" and so probably went for entire years without actually eating. Also, she has 5 kids and that means that she probably wasn't getting a lot of sleep either, at least sometimes.

We need a President that represents our real concerns and interests. I know that S.P. is not running for the President, but that other guy really seems kind of out of it. Even I know that Spain is not in South America. So Ms. Palin will probably end up in charge, at least she does seem to know where Russia is. (But I have a question: Can it actually be seen from Alaska?)

At any rate: I believe we would be much better served by President Demon Flash Bandit. He does know where both Alaska and Russia are. He understands the importance of naps. He is well versed in the varieties and flavors of Dingo Bones. He has a lovely sister who is prepared to assume the Presidency if he should be unable to serve for some awful reason.

If you are a Dog - or any other kind of animal: Do the right thing and choose Demon Flash Bandit for President.

Savannah!
(I should note that I am D.F.B.'s Fiance, but that hasn't influenced my opinion. Nope, not at all!)

Big Silly!

I am being silly, I just can't help myself! I am enjoying the lovely cool weather and the autumn sports of football and soccer and just running and playing like a baby puppy!

I think some of it is due to the fact that I am in love! We haven't set a date yet, but I really like the idea of a winter wedding. Since we are going to wait until after the election, and then my groom will need some time to get situated as President, it might be late winter. If it has warmed up too much - due to global warming - we can visit Alaska and get married there.

I haven't even thought of a honeymoon. My little brother is getting married next Valentines Day and he is planning a world-wide honeymoon trip, so perhaps we will just go along with him and then Demon can spend some time on some official matters of state.

Not all the time, mind you! He will be on his honeymoon! ~giggle~

But I don't think I want to wait until Valentine's Day. Maybe we could get married at the New Year! That would be nice!

Love and kissies! Savannah!

Maybe a Winter Wedding?

I can picture me in a lovely satin gown, maybe in a candlelight color rather than snow white. (I think it would set off my golden fur better.) I would like to find one with little snowflake crystals and wear it with a blue velvet stole. I think I would carry white roses with some blush pink ones mixed in.

Maybe a deep blue satin sash to match the groom's eyes.

Not that it is all about the dress, mind you. I am totally in love and have been for a long time. I used to hang around his dogster page, hoping he would notice me. Then my occasionally obnoxious and extremely foward little brother proposes to my fiance's sister. Well, I thought - that kills that. Now he will always look to me as a little sister type.

But NO! I decided to put my efforts into getting him elected President and from working on the campaign so much, I finally caught his eye! He proposed just a week ago!

Mrs. Demon Flash Bandit
Mrs. Savannah Belle Bandit
Mrs. Savvy Bandit
Mrs. Savannah B.B. Flash Bandit
Mrs. Belle-Bandit

Sounds so nice!

Good luck, girlies! Never give up! True love will come your way!
Savannah!

Gosh! I'm Engaged!

And there are so many things to think about! I have to select a veil and a gown and flowers and bridespup dresses and reception sites! Oh!
I know I will have something blue, because of the lovely blue eyes of my Fiance, Demon Flash Bandit! (vote for him for President!)

But Oh!

Goin' to the chapel
And we're gonna get ma-a-arried
Goin' to the chapel
And we're gonna get ma-a-arried
Gee, I really love you
And we're gonna get ma-a-arried
Goin' to the chapel of love

Spring is here, th-e-e sky is blue, whoa-oh-oh
Birds all sing as if they knew
Today's the day we'll say "I do"
And we'll never be lonely anymore because we're

Goin' to the chapel
And we're gonna get ma-a-arried
Goin' to the chapel
And we're gonna get ma-a-arried
Gee, I really love you
And we're gonna get ma-a-arried
Goin' to the chapel of love

Bells will ring, the-e-e sun will shine, whoa-oh-oh
I'll be his and he'll be mine
We'll love until the end of time
And we'll never be lonely anymore because we're

Goin' to the chapel
And we're gonna get ma-a-arried
Goin' to the chapel
And we're gonna get ma-a-arried
Gee, I really love you
And we're gonna get ma-a-arried
Goin' to the chapel of love

Australian Dust Storms...

There has been a lot in the news about the weather lately and one of these storms with its own name visited us a little - that was Hanna and it dumped a lot of water on us which is great with me, because then there are lots of wonderful puddles!

However, I want to comment today on another type of locally generated weather that is afflicting my backyard. It is dust storms caused by the passage of Hurricane Samoa. Since the weather has cooled off some, he has taken to running in mad circles all the time. He runs in mad circles on the deck, around and around the table. He runs in mad circles in the front yard, showing off for Julius (yes, Julius is STILL next door!) And he runs in mad circles around the shed and into the back yard where he is starting to wear a track like a little dirt race course. Mama says we can do what we want in the back yard - except for a couple of bushes we have to leave alone. So she doesn't care about his dirt race course. But she isn't at the same level as me and isn't getting covered with blown dust all the time. Because he goes around, kicking up dust and barking at me to try to get me to chase.

And around.

And around.

and

around.

I need a nap.

Karate Class for Dogs...

Samoa has entered a weird new phase. The operative word here is NEW, not weird - because he is always weird.

Now he has started trying to kick me. Not an accidental kick like you might do while stretching - but an actual strike with his front paw while I am just walking by. I think he has been watching the cat who sometimes does this. When the cat does it I let it pass. He IS a cat after all - whatcha going to do?

But Samoa kicking is just going to far. He takes that big spotted foot of his and just stretches out and...kicks! One the head, on the nose, on the leg or side. No telling where he is going to kick.

Last night when he did it I ran him over so he could get a little rest and think on the error of his ways. But did that stop him?No, it did not.

Tonight I think I will chase him into the pond and pull his tail.

Silly dog.

I need to get a new hat.

I was wearing this cheese hat in honor of "Tribute to Cheese" night at the Pier last week. It is a good hat, and has set a new fashion trend around here, but considering that I am a Diary Pick for today, I think the least I should get is a new hat. I have mentioned it to Mama and hope she does something about it soon. She is using a computer without the jazzy software to type this up for me, and so she can't do any picture editing whatever that means.

I would like a hat suitable for fall, maybe something a little weatherproof since it is rainy around here today. If it had a nice decorative cluster of leaves and acorns that would be good. Maybe I can get this done in a little while, and if so - I'll be back with a new picture.

This Friday Night at the Pier is "Memorial to Departed Pets" night. Samoa says he has a rainbow auxiliary and so all the departed pets can attend with those of us on this side of the bridge. We are serving a buffet of Old Time Favorites and will have a special Fireside Memory Dance and Reminiscence.

See you there! (and I ought to have a new hat on by then)
Savannah!

New Beauty Treatment!

And it feels SOO good! What I am talking about is getting my cheek pouches massaged. Mama started rubbing me on the upside this morning and since I am a dog with more skin than bones, there is a lot of cheek pouch to work on. Later, when I sat up she did both of them at once.

Ecstasy! Try it! If it doesn't make us prettier, it sure does make us happier!

Love, Savannah!

I Try to Stay Out of Politics...

But lately it has been kind of overwhelming. My boyfriend, Demon Flash Bandit is running for President, and will WIN - but still - I can't seem to avoid all the human political mayhem that is going on lately.

I might as well state this up front: My Hoomans are Navy Blue, by which I mean they ain't red. Politically wise. My dear Mama has some trouble getting really behind a candidate, because none of them are EVER liberal enough for her. Right now she thinks that Rachel Maddow would be a fine pick. However, she does support Mr. Obama and occasionally erupts into babble trying to explain why he is so important. I'll take her word for it, I am a good and well behaved dog. Not that I can't think for myself, mind you! I think a dog SHOULD be in charge, and what better dog than Demon Flash Bandit! (vote for him!)

However, if you read his Diary, you will note that he ain't exactly red either. So I have to say that I am feeling kinda blue myself. In a happy, sky blue kind of way! Especially since Mr. McCain (red candidate) picked the Mysterious Ms. Palin from a line-up or however he picked her. (Fully Vetted, my left buttock!) No doubt it was as close as he could hope to get to an actual living, breathing beauty queen. (In my opinion, that Cindy just don't have enough meat on her bones!) But looks aside ('cos they don't hurt, but they really don't help either) what in the world could he have been thinking? I mean, though my darling Demon is a Siberian Husky and plans to start an Alaskan White House - Alaska isn't exactly a representative state is it? I hope to visit some day, maybe to attend the Iditarod Races, but I found out one VERY disturbing thing about Ms. Palin. She supports the Arial Hunting of Wolves. No kidding! If she comes down here, what is she going to do? We don't have wolves near Washington unless they are in a zoo! Is she going to start hunting Labradors? German Shepherds? Miniature Schnauzers? Think about it!

Vote for Demon Flash Bandit!

I'm Savannah Blue Belle and I approve this message!

I enjoy my weekend...

We had a very nice weekend with weekend guests and some of them were teenage boys which are my very favorite type of hooman. They have more life in them than other hoomans, they are rough and ready and like to play and eat. They are also messy eaters, which is a bonuse 'cos that means some free range snacking is available. I even heard Grandma say "don't worry, the dog will get it." "It" was a chicken nugget with catsup and it was quite tasty.

Samoa is a little faster at grabbing the snacks, but I did ok. We also played ball in the yard for QUITE a while one evening with several balls at once. They were soccer balls that Mama had bought for the boys and they seem to like kicking them while we chased. I was very tired after that. Because I was sleeping so hard I did not notice that sometime in the night one of the boys crept out and pupnapped Samoa to take into the bedroom to watch movies with. Samoa said it was ok, though the movie had no dogs in it and the boys tend to fart.

And then laugh. I guess that is hooman humor for you.

Savannah.

An Exciting Weekend, and then some.

And then I check my page on Wed. Morning and find I am one of the Diary Picks! So I better write a good entry today.

This past Saturday Mama took off early for some reason - before Walkies even. But she wasn't gone long. While she was gone, Grandma was piling stuff up by the back door. Towels and folding chairs and an umbrella. And three bags of stuff - one for her, one for Mama and one for us!

Because we were going to the BEACH! We went to a place in Virginia, not far from where I was born and we had a "cottage" which must mean a very small house. It was big enough, though and we all stayed for 4 days. We walked on the beach and in the evenings we got let loose to run as long as we didn't bother people. What fun! Samoa drove himself batty trying to catch seagulls, but they were on to him and kept gliding away. I ran and swam and rolled in the sand.

Grandma had packed plenty of pup food into "our bag" but we also got to eat hot dogs and chicken! We walked around the town some because it was a nice small town and we could meet people and look in store windows. Mama even took us into a beach bar where we could lay on the floor and eat ice cream. Samoa kept trying to go behind the bar 'cos he wanted to play with the busboy. I think he was really trying to get a beer.

It was fantastic! Still, I am happy to get home and have a nice long nap in my own bed. Mama says we may go back in October for a weekend as a post-birthday present. Wow!

Samoa says the next time he is going to order a beer and see who tries to stop him. Me, I enjoyed the ice cream.

Savannah!

(if you see a big yellow dog running on the beach, it is me! I am dreaming of it right now!)

My head is in the clouds...

In a figurative sense, of course. I used to try to fly, but found I can only make it a couple of feet off the ground. So I gave that up as a hobby and turned to goose chasing instead. The best seasons for chasing geese are fall and spring - they seem to have other things to do in the summer and winter. In the fall and spring they sit in the fields honking and pooping. Then, when I spot a few Mama lets me off leash and I charge! Even Samoa admires my charges, because I am a big girl and when I charge - the earth shakes. Really it does!

Needless to say, those geese go scatterin'!

That is the life for me!

Fall is coming, so on cooler days I have been practicing charging. I use the side gate as a target. It has had the added bonus of springing the latch, which sometimes means a brief spell of freedom and an opportunity to search the yard for rabbits.

Mama says she is going to fix the gate tonight. But then we get to walk to the pond, and MAYBE there will be some early geese.

Savannah!

A Car Upon the Roof...

Not a real car, nothing that exciting. But the house across the street where the Dobie Sam lives has a childs toy car right up on the top of the roof. It looks kind of nice there, colorful and original.

We can only speculate as to the purpose. Like so many things in this pups life, the true meaning of a car on the roof is mysterious and puzzzling. Hoomans are VERY unpredictable and if you leave them to their own devices they might do almost anything. Including putting little Jimmy's car up on the roof.

Mama says it is called a "practical joke" which she says is like Samoa hiding all the toys. I don't think that is much of a Joke. I don't find that amusing AT ALL.

Still the car on the roof is intriguing. I find myself studying it for hidden meaning. If you have any insight into this, please drop me a pawmail.

Love, Savannah!

It's True!

I expect everyone of my crowd to make fun
Of my proud protestations of faith in romance,
And they'll say I'm naďve as a babe to believe
Every fable I hear from a person in pants.

Fearlessly I'll face them and argue their doubts away,
Loudly I'll sing about flowers in spring,
Flatly I'll stand on my little flat feet and say
Love is a grand and a beautiful thing!
I'm not ashamed to reveal
The world famous feelin' I feel.

I'm as corny as Kansas in August,
I'm as normal as blueberry pie.
No more a smart little girl with no heart,
I have found me a wonderful guy!

I am in a conventional dither,
With a conventional star in my eye.
And you will note there's a lump in my throat
When I speak of that wonderful guy!

I'm as trite and as gay as a daisy in May,
A cliché comin' true!
I'm bromidic and bright
As a moon-happy night
Pourin' light on the dew!

I'm as corny as Kansas in August,
High as a flag on the Fourth of July!
If you'll excuse an expression I use,
I'm in love, I'm in love,
I'm in love, I'm in love,
I'm in love with a wonderful guy!

I'm as trite and as gay as a daisy in May,
A cliché comin' true!
I'm bromidic and bright
As a moon-happy night
Pourin' light on the dew!
I'm in love, I'm in love,
I'm in love, I'm in love,
I'm in love with a wonderful guy!

Getting my nails done...

I have especially long and pointed nails. I like to run on the road, but that doesn't really seem to help with the side ones as much, so Mama has to trim my nails. She has bought a rotary trimmer and so far we are enjoying it. She is very careful not to grind away too long and heat up my toesies, and has only done a little bit at a time.

So far, so good.

After she is completely done, I think I would like her to do some nail art for me. Maybe a sort of American Flag pattern would make up for not wearing a lapel pin.

I think Karl Rove is still out there in the shrubs and I am not taking any chances.

Savannah!

Noises in the Night...

Mama says she thinks the neighbors are moving out. Samoa is depressed because his friend Julius will probably be going with them, since he lives in that house. Whoever it is, they are making a lot of noise. Our friend Sully suggests that it MIGHT be Karl Rove sneaking around in our shrubbery. This would be because my boyfriend, Demon Flash Bandit, is running for president and is going to win. No doubt Mr. Rove is trying to find some dirt on me so he can play some nasty tricks in the upcoming campaign. That is what he does, apparently.

Well, he won't find any thing wrong with me! I am a pretty, blond All-American Dog and if I had a lapel, I would be wearing a flag lapel pin. But I am not going to stick myself with pins, just to make Karl Rove happy. No, indeed.

Samoa says he and Julius are going to sneak up on the sneak and bite him multiple times. They are boys and they think stuff like that is fun. I am not going to get mixed up in that. It might not look good if somebody got a picture of it. But those two say they can claim to be Demon's security guards.

I really don't want to start turning up in those tabloids, like some other blondes. I think I will just go under the table and pretend to be sleeping.

Savannah!

My Dogster Friends!

I have so many good friends on Dogster, I could never mention them all. I want to do a shout out for 2 very special dogs - and old friend and a new friend!

Sukie Lou Phalanges is my best Dogster Girlfriend. She and I have talked about all kinds of fun things, like running through cornfields and weekend plans and the nature of hoomans and everything. She is a lovely dog, a natural dog who is probably a native breed. A Carolina Dog - I was just reading about them on the web and it is very interesting. They came over the Bering Straits with the emmigrating peoples and their bone structure is nearly identical with the remains of dogs in early Native American Burials.

Sukie is a real charmer, you should visit her and ask her to be your friend too!

My new friend is a Gentleman Dog named Sully who wrote to my little brother Samoa to give him advice on his tail. (Samoa has a big bushy tail.) He is part Aussie and so is Samoa maybe and they hit it off pretty good. Sully is a very smart dog, so it is a wonder he wants to put up with Samoa's nonsense. But he is very kind. We also write pawmail back and forth. I want to tell Sully's neighbors to back off and let him bark. He has a right. When my boyfriend Demon Flash Bandit is President, I will ask him to look into Sully's situation and straighten out those cranky neighbors of his. You hang in their Sully, old boy!

Savannah!

Educational Television...

I will let Samoa tell you all about the interesting weather situation we had here yesterday. As a result of that we spent some time watching educational television. Usually we do not watch television except in the evenings, but since Mama could not paint the porch rails like she wanted to, we turned on the TV. It was a show called "Cry in the Dark" and it was about Dingos. Mama thought it was a pretty good show, but it was scary. There were these dogs called Dingos and they ate a baby. Or not, because the law enforcement people said the baby's Mama did it. Not ATE the baby, but killed it herself. She had a very bad wig, but didn't really strike me as a baby killer. Ya never know, though.

Anyway, before it was over they changed their minds and said dingos DID eat the baby or I think that is what happened.

Then we had a question and answer sessions. Samoa wanted to know if babies tasted good. I told him they do, but I have never eaten one, only licked a few. They taste like milk and cookies. They giggle when you lick them. I could never actually BITE one. Samoa said he could. I told him if he did he could just go ahead and move out, because I won't let him come back in the house. Then he tried to pretend he was only kidding. He said he would much rather eat a loaf of stale bread. (He does like stale bread.)

But I am keeping my eye on him. Fortunately we don't usually have any babies around, so we are pretty safe. If we do have a baby visit, I will just sit on Samoa and save him from his own foolishness.

Savannah - protector of idiot puppies and innocent babies.

Rolling as a form of exercise!

I enjoy a good roll. I like to roll in fresh grass, newly mown grass, sand, road kill, mud, more mud and goose poop.

Just now newly mown grass is my favorite. It does a lovely job of scratching the back and removing loose fur and stuff. I believe it is also beneficial as exercise. If you roll strenuously enough you must burn off at least a few calories. From that all important back zone. I want to avoid getting back blubber, like the rest of you girls. Sometimes running like a mad dog is just not enough.

Last night on walkies I got a lot of rolling in. I would take about 3 steps and then drop and roll. And then do it again. And again. And again. It took us a half hour to even make it to the corner.

And then I really got some rolling done on the dry mown grass in the schoolyard.

About that time Samoa decided he had enough and went "kiting off" as he is prone to doing. That gets him in trouble. Mama had to go after him and haul him back. He always acts like he doesn't know what went wrong. Totally stoopid. He isn't even doing anything healthy like Rolling.

Savannah!

This Time it is Love!

I mean it. No kidding. The Real Thing, baby.

I have said that before, I know - but now I know better.

It just so happens that the object of my affection is a VERY well known dog. So I am not going to blab his identity because the next thing you know the puparazzis would be after us, and I just don't want that kind of attention. The puparazzi will just have to find some other glamorous couple to chase. I think they should stick to celebripups and not bother VIPs like my boyfriend. Who I am in love with.

We date every week at my little brother's place: Samoa's Pondside BBQ Bar and Sea Serpent Sighting Pier. I have been so distracted that last week, the Sea Serpent drank most of my Mai Tai and I never even noticed.

This week, we are having Chinese/Olympics/Samoa and Angel Pre-Engagement Party. I have a lovely Chinese Dress to wear. And a matching parasol, in case the Chinese Food makes me burp. (Sometimes it does.)

If you come by, we would love to see you. Just make sure you don't bring any pupz with you. If you would like an autographed picture or a campaign (ooops!) button, we can be sure to give you some!

Savannah!

Adventures With Gorilla Tape...

You would think that after using Gorilla Glue and having the entire contents of a junk drawer permanently preserved in said drawer...well, you would think that would give Mama pause before she used something called Gorilla Tape. That is what she got to help hold the 9 foot 11 inch canopy to the 10 foot frame.

Many attempts were made with the results being less than satisfactory. Ex: tape stuck to tape, tape stuck to arm, arm stuck to canopy frame, arm stuck to canopy AND frame, tape stuck to forehead.

Finally - at least SO far - the 9 foot 11 inch canopy is successfully attached to the 10 foot canopy frame. But is hasn't rained or blown since this was accomplished. Total success may NOT have been achieved. And, of course, it looks like Heck. Though Heck is not the word Mama used.

Savannah....

The Shade Canopy - the saga continues.

The 9 foot 11 inch, 'sposed to be 10 foot square canopy is STILL 9 feet 11 inches.

Mama is still glaring at it. Last night for a while she took turns hanging from one corner or the other of it, trying to get it to stretch. It didn't.
She also went to the hardware store and bought a bunch of snaps and a snap installing thingy to help her fasten the thing down instead of using bits of old clothesline. I helped her and have really enjoyed the bits of old clothesline, which when tied into knots make wonderful chew toys.

Well. I have to say that the snaps seemed to be not a big success. The thingy with which you are supposed to connect them turned out to be very evil. Mama tried hitting the whole mess with a hammer about 63 zillion times but only succeeded in making her thumbnails turn blue.

I have to say, that I am really surprised that Mama knows that sort of language. She must have learned it from watching "Deadwood." which we have been watching on DVD. (My favorite character is Calamity Jane. Mama says that would have been a good name for me!)

So it ended up with Mama having to borrow the clothesline back to tie it down again, because a storm was coming. The corners still do not fit and are sticking up and Mama is still glaring. But she has stopped cussing.

I am sure this is not the end of the story. It is a series, like "Deadwood." But no horses or guns. At least not yet.

Savannah!

somewhat disturbing...

Just in MY opinion mind you....Some dogs and their people probably think it is the cutest thing ever. But I find it somewhat disturbing.

I mean the heads of dogs attached to the bodies of people that you often see here in Dogster. No, I don't want to criticize, but aren't us dogs lovely enough? Do we need bodies like weightlifters or supermodels? I don't think so. I actually think we look WAY better in our lovely natural state.

I have seen some that are very amusing. But some of them are just...well...DISTURBING!

Maybe I should start a protest? Like some people protest other people wearing furs. Maybe I need to protest dogs wearing people skins.

It's enough to give a pup nightmares.

Just in MY opinion, mind you.
Savannah!

Big Sisters Club...

I should start a big sisters club for all us nice, ladylike pups who have wild little heathen brothers.

If you are like me, you know just what I mean. Lately Samoa has been writing all kinds of wild things about me in his correspondence. He told his friend Sully that I was the one who barfed up the feathers. It most certainly was NOT me.

(It is true - I did TASTE the feathers but I did not barf - he did.)

He has also been writing that I am boy crazy and I am not. It is true, I have dated around and there are those who have called me a heartless Jezebel, but they are wrong. I have given my heart away and am now just not interested in those silly boys. I have a very dignified and cultured male companion, thank you very much.

I will not mention his name, but lets just say - he is going to be the first dog president of these United States. If things go really well, I could end up being first lady-dog. I think that would be swell.

I might go shopping online for something to wear to the inaguaral ball. Just in case.

Savannah (NOT barfing feathers!)

shhhhhhhhhh. its a secret!

Once I had a secret love
That lived within the heart of me
All too soon my secret love
Became impatient to be free

So I told a friendly star
The way that dreamers often do
Just how wonderful you are
And why I am so in love with you

Now I shout it from the highest hills
Even told the golden daffodils

At last my heart's an open door
And my secret love's no secret anymore

(savannah)

Cornbread for Canines...

Mama is in a mood to bake. This is less than sensible because the temp has been close to 100 for a whole week now. So of course, it is a good time to turn on the oven. Thank Dog for Air Conditioning.

On the upside, Mama is determined to perfect her cornbread recipe. She has made two batches so far and the excess goes to the birds. And to us! I like the maple syrup/ sweet potato cornbread.

Samoa likes the one with cheese in it.

Either way, excess cornbread is a wonderful thing!

Savannah!

Water Bath, Dust Bath - both are fine...

We have a new schedule due to it being so ridiculously hot that we can't take evening walks anymore. (Last night the heat index was 102 just before sunset!)

Now we go in the morning at about 6:30. That is a lot better, it isn't what you could call cool, but it ain't 102 yet. Because of this we have time on our paws in the evening. Last night we got a bath - in my littel wading pool. Mama did me first and lathered me all over and then hosed me off so I would be clean and soap free. Then I got a piece of bacon and waited on the porch while Samoa got done.

He does not enjoy a bath the way that I do. He goes as stiff as a board and has to be frog marched into the pool. Then Mama has to straddle him so he doesn't make a break for it while he gets sudsed. He told me he actually likes the "bubble massage" but he still resists it and will go hide under the broom bush if he can. But last night Mama kept a tight grip on him and he had to stand still while she hosed him. Then he got a piece of bacon and we both got toweled down. (I really like the towel massage part!) Then we went inside and had dinner which had some leftover cheesy pasta in it, so it was good.

This morning we went on a walk again, and I was feeling too clean, so I gave myself a dust bath in the school yard. Mama asked me why I had to do that right after she got me all cleaned up. But she didn't care. It is better than rolling in goose poop, she said.

I hope all my fellow dogsters are comfortable and happy.
Love, Savannah!

Samoa Becomes an Entry in the Employee Handbook...

My Mama works in the usual kind of nutty place. Right now her nutty place is trying to act as if it is normal, not nutty. But it is nutty.

They are writing an "Employee Manual" which tells the employees all the rules for what they may and may not do. If it says they may, then they must. If it says they may not - well, that is where Samoa comes in.

Last year when he was kind of new Mama had to take him to the vet to get checked over. One time she had to take him, she had the day off. So she decided to stop by at the place she works and introduce him to some dog loving co-workers. Also, she thought, she could check up on her email and be a good employee.

BUT. Dogs are not allowed at work. Ever. Even though people brought them all the time to show off to each other. It was just something about Samoa, I guess. Because it started a poo-storm, Mama said - except she didn't say Poo. And now he is written in the Employee Handbook. Not by name, but one of the May Not Dos is "Employees May Not Bring their Pets to Work."

How do you like that?

And I never even got to go. Maybe I am better off. That is what Mama says anyway.

Savannah!

I sit upon the toybox...

It is a good place to sit, right in the side doorway at home. I can keep the toys secure, see out the door and also enjoy the smell of my dog food which is in a bin right next to the toybox. It is a little tight. I bump my head on the small shelf that is above the toybox. I also dangle off the sides.

Sometimes things fall off the shelf. Sometimes I slide off the toybox. I think the shelf needs to be higher and the toybox needs to be wider. Some padding would be nice too.

I'll see if I can talk Mama into an upgrade.

Savannah!

Why Mud is more fun than clean water...

It has character, which clean water does not. This is why I enjoy clambering down into the ditch more than I enjoy swimming in the pond. The pond has a "pondy" smell but the ditch! Ah, it smells like old bugs and toes and weeds and pee and rotten stuff. It smells like life!

Also, there is the texture of the mud. It varies depending on how hot it is and how recently it rained and the temperature and how deep the water is. All sorts of things. So it is continually changing and fascinating. The pond does not change that much. Sometimes it has geese, sometimes it doesn't. That is about it as far as variety. Not that I mind the pond. It is just the thing if you want to jump in and get all over wet. But even then, you dry off.

With the ditch you get to take some of it home with you in the shape of dried mud.

Of course Mama did hose me down when we got home. She wouldn't let me go in the house muddy. But I like to be hosed down, then I can run around the outside of the house like mad until I have dried off a little. That is fun.

Samoa got hosed down too. He hates the hose. Ninny.

Savannah!

Campaign to get the Obamas to adopt my little brother.

I see the link on the front page of Dogster that you can click on to let the Obamas know that they should adopt a homeless pup. I think that is a fine idea. I'll take it a step further and volunteer Samoa, who would be homeless if my Mama had any sense. Instead, she has brought him to live with us here and bother me.

He takes up too much space and eats too much. He barks really loud and sharp, and sometimes nips me.

Don't tell the Obamas. They might not like him if they heard about that. The Obama children look like nice little girls. I will put some lovely ribbons on Samoa and he will look pretty and they will like him. This could work! I will tell them his name is Sally and he is a sweet and dear little girl dog who wants only to play dress up with them.

I am sure that he would enjoy living the White House. I am doing a GOOD thing!

Savannah!

Beer Commercials and Giant Tennis Balls!

There is a commercial on that makes my Mama laugh. I like it too because it has a Big Labby in it. In the commercial, which is for some kind of beer, these people are having a backyard party when a Giant Labrador jumps over the fence and starts grabbing things. They lob a Giant Tennis Ball at it from a catapult and it grabs the ball and runs away.

Mama went and bought me a Giant Tennis Ball yesterday. It is as big as a basketball but all covered with that delightful tennis ball stuff that is so good to sink you teeth into.

Now I need a catapult. Maybe I can borrow one from those guys who fling the pumpkins every fall. It is a big fall event around here, people build giant pumpkin throwing machines and go for distance records. Every fall the air is filled with sailing pumpkins. Lotsa fun, but Giant Tennis Balls would be even better. And then they could get a bunch of Labs to chase the balls and it would be even more fun. Maybe with water obstacles even! Wow!

Savannah!

I Long to be Lap Sized...

But plainly, human laps are just not built to the proper scale. I want to sit on Mama's lap and sometimes she sits on the floor so I can get at least part on me on her lap. And sometimes she sits on a chair that is wide or on the sofa and I can get up there with her. When I do that Samoa tries to snatch at my legs and I have to fight him off. If I wiggle too much, Mama makes me get off.

If I were lap sized I could get a nice cuddle all the time.

It isn't that I mind being big - I get admired by hunting type guys and by Lab Fans. But I have see pictures of Mama's old dog Cotton who was a nice cuddlesome size. She had curls too. Even I want to hug her.

I found out how to get curls. First I have to get wet and then roll in the wood shavings at the lumber yard. When I get up I got curly things stuck all over me. It makes me look cuddly. But it doesn't make me smaller.

Grandma says I am a classic beauty. I guess that means large. Mama says I am a canine athlete. I want to be a cuddle bug.

It isn't that I don't get hugs, I do. I just want to get snuggled and my people are not up to the task.

Savannah.

Mama takes to the air!

We had a really interesting walk this morning. It stormed last night and me and Sam-O huddled until it was over and then we went outside to sleep on the nice cool porch 'cos it was really nice out there. After it rains, everything cools off! And walks this morning were nice because we had a lovely walk down to the school where I could practice my sliding board skills. It was wet on the slideys, and that made it really nice 'cos I would splash when I got to the bottom. Samoa watched, but he won't try anymore. I think he knows I'd show him up!

Anyway, on the way back it got interesting. Samoa and I thought we saw a bunny on the other side of the hedge. We went through the hedge to check but Mama couldn't. She got stuck and started squawking. That was funny for a minute but it was pulling on my neck, so I went back out and so did Samoa. Then that white pickup that makes that chug-a-chug noise went by and I just CAN'T resist that! I jumped at it and Mama came unstuck from the hedge and flew through the air. Only for a second, though. She could not remain airborne, unfortunately. So she skidded along the ground for a minute and then jumped up and fussed at us, but I could tell she wasn't mad. She was probably happy to get a little chance to fly. If only for a minute.

Maybe I'll try that again tomorrow.

Savannah!

I am so beautiful...to Mama

It is true, she wears glasses and looks through them and overtop them depending on what she is looking at. And I HAVE heard her say "Well, that is just beautiful!" when I can tell she is aggravated. But I have a feeling that when she says I am beautiful, she means it. And that makes me happy.

I am not a little cuddly pup as you will have noticed. I am, ahem, statuesque you might say. I am not a show dog, but a hunting dog and an especially large example of the breed, 'specially for a girl. An informed person (lady doing coffee run for a field trials show) once exclaimed that I was the biggest girl lab she had ever seen. And that the "guys" would just weep at the sight of me, they would love me so much. 'Cos I am made for the field. But I am a housepet, even though I get to go on fantastic adventures with Mama and Samoa. (Mama has a habit of plunging into the woods and then refusing to go back out the way she came. Makes for some extra excitement!)

But it is nice to hear that I am beautiful and she tells me at least once each day. She tells Samoa that he is handsome and charming. I heard her tell Grandma that he has "a lunatic charm all his own." I know that lunatic has something to do with the moon, doesn't it? He does like to sleep outside sometimes. Maybe that makes him moony.

I had a squirrel named Mooney. It was stuffed. Oh, wait a minute. Mama says I am beautiful, that is what I am talking about. I am glad she thinks so. I like her to think so.

Savannah. Feeling Pretty.

Daring Young Dog on the Sliding Board!

Well, last nights walkies were really momenteous! I enjoyed myself as always, but it was fairly routine, until we got to the playset on the school playground.

I have been working up the nerve for it for some time and at last I have achieved it!

I Went Down The Sliding Board!

all by myself. and then i did it again.

Plainly, I have gifts. And to think of that trainer who said "Labradors are not typically agility dogs!" Well, showed her!

Savannah! Queen of the Sliding Board!

Life is a Cabaret!

My Friends! I have just discovered the Movie Musical. Well in fact it was already discovered, but I just discovered how much I like to watch them. I already like music. Grandma plays us music in the daytime to keep us company so she can do her housework and not get bothered. (Not that we WOULD bother her, understand - it's just that sometimes lunch seems a LITTLE late!)

So when I got a chance to watch "High School Musical" with some of the little girls who live around here I thought is was extra super fab.

Really. I told Mama about it and she said, nothing doing and went out and got South Pacific, West Side Story and Cabaret for me to watch. Wowza! How those people can dance and sing and still carry a story line. Next we get Annie which even has a Dog in it! Are there more! Can you tell me which ones are good ones! I love em!

LOVE THEM!

Playground Pupster!

I am very happy that we live near a school. It means that I can go and run all around the big field off leash - as long as I remember to go back to Mama when she calls me. I have been very good lately, so I am having lots of fun running around and then going home to jump into my really nice swimming pool. It is just my size. If you look at the pictures of me, you can see two of them where I am playing on the playground jungle gym. It is lots of fun, but so far I will not go down the sliding board like Samoa. He is only showing off. And he is smaller than I am, so it might be easier to throw on the brakes.

I am afraid of sliding too fast.

Do any of you like to play on the Jungle Gym?

Savvy - a dog having fun!

Dramatic Bird Related Action!

OK, one of these things happened this morning and one of them happened years ago before either Samoa or I were born. All of them are very exciting.

The exciting thing that happened this morning is that Samoa almost caught a bird. Not one of those stoopid geese but a real flying, cheeping type bird. It was hiding in some bushes in front of the school and suddenly burst forth! Samoa was right on its tailfeathers and snapping like a mad dog. The bird was off balance, not an accomplished flyer and he skittered to a halt in the middle of the parking lot. Samoa was so hot on his tail, that he went into a skid and slid right past the bird. In spite of his heroic attempt, the bird was able to get in the air again and escape him. Good try, Sam-O!

The other exciting thing happened a LONG time ago. Our friend - Demon Flash Bandit (vote for him for president!) has a diary entry about birds attacking dogs! My own Mama and her own dog almost experienced this once.

See - the dog was a baby Aussie and looked just like a little fat rabbit. They lived on an island in the Chesapeake Bay and all around there were these big birds called Marsh Hawks or Harriers. Mama was sitting out in the back yard while the puppy played and All Of A Sudden - one of those big raptors came over the roof of the house and went into a "stoop" like it was ready to drop on the fat puppy. Mama came out of her chair like she had springs and leaped to the puppies defense! Fortunately she was close enough to scare off the big mean bird and rescue the puppy who lived many more years and was very fat and happy.

The end.

Savannah!

Swimming Lessons!

I have given Samoa enough lessons now to where he has become a very good swimmer. He is fast, sort of a sprinter - but not as strong as me. I can stay in the water for a long time and just recently discovered the pleasures of swimming upstream. You don't get anywhere, but it is fun anyway.

However, I do believe that since I am the Retriever, I should be allowed to retrieve. That little dummy will jump right in the water and get in my way when I am trying to fetch a stick. Most of the time, he is not strong enought to lug a good sized stick out, and he is just bothering me.

Mama tried throwing him little sticks near the shore, but nothing doing. He MUST go after my nice big sticks and spoil the fun.

Savannah.

Birds All Over...

After coming back and getting us from Pup Camp, Mama and Grandma seem to have gone sort of bird crazy. The Graduates Parents have a "bird habitat" and Mama said she was going to establish one right in our backyard, outside the fence - so the birds can hang out without Samoa trying to eat them. (He would eat them if he could catch them!)

Anyway, under the big tree there are now bird feeders and a birdbath (they need a bath, the filthy things) and some sparkly things. It does look kind of pretty and Mama might add a little water feature, like a waterfall or something. We can lay on the deck and nap and watch the dirty birds gobble up seed and splash water.

It is a weird hobby, but it IS kind of pleasant to watch them. Even if they are filthy.

Savannah!

I am not a crybaby!

But I do not like going to pup camp. Some of the other pups are rowdy and insulting. They make comments about my weight. It is one thing if Samoa teases me, but I didn't like hearing it from all those bratty pups. I am not fat - I am big boned. I think it is a good thing!

Samoa was very helpful. He told the pups they better lay off or he would get them tossed in solitary. The lady who minds the camp was a friend of Sam-O's and she would have done it for him. She thinks he is great!

Mama says that the lady was afraid that Samoa would be very naughty because he was from a Humane and she thought he might think he was being sent back and get all wild and crazy. He didn't though. He said he knew Mama would come back and get us, because he has her trained very well. He said that he would give me some tips so she will mind me better too! He is a pretty good little brother after all!

Savannah - home now and eatin' eggs!!

Samoa meets my friend Shelby...

I knew Shelby from last year, before Samoa came to live with us. She is a cute dog, about Samoa's size - part husky. She is reddish and looks like a Coyote. Last night we went down to the playground and there was Shelby and her kids and her Mom. I was SO pleased! The kids remembered my name, even though I had not seen them since last year! (Their Mom has 3 kids and Shelby and a full time job so they don't get to the playground everyday like I do)

Anyway - Shelby spots old raggedy Samoa and you would have thought the King Of Dogs had appeared. She obviously went GaGa over him, and I really don't understand it. I mean there aren't that many boy dogs in the neighborhood, but I just don't get the attraction. Well, she may be nuts - but we did have a terrific time chasing each other and "falling" in the muddy ditches. Both Shelby and I were all covered with mud by the time we were done. So was Samoa, probably - but he is all black and brown, so who could tell?

Savannah!

Spring Cleaning...And Gardening for Dogs

Samoa and I have been very helpful around the house and yard lately. Right now Samoa is making some adjustments to a broom on the back porch. He is streamlining it by chewing some of the bristles down so that it has less wind resistance when it is used to sweep.

We have been thoughtful that way. Yesterday I noticed Grandma trying to gather up the large pieces of newspaper that she puts down on the floor at night in case Samoa forgets himself. Grandma is quite small, so I thought I would help by tearing the newspaper up into teeny tiny pieces to make it easier to pick them up. I am sure she appreciated this.

Mama has been trying to trim some of the shrubs and of course, we are very talented at this sort of chore. It IS true, that the bushes lack a little symmetry, but I think the free form style has a more natural look anyway. We even did a bonsai effect on one of the Lilacs. Really nice!

Also we pick up all the small clippings and sticks and carry them up on to the porch. We are mulching them there as an extra help.

Later I am going to make some small adjustments to a bed of hosta on the shady side of the house. Nothing large, just a little tweaking to make it a more natural effect, not so stiff. Right now they are all in neat little bunches. I think a more casual arrangement would be more, well...casual.

I am sure Mama will agree!

Insects to avoid...

This is not a comprehensive list, but in time I will add other insects as I become more informed.

Avoid Ticks and Fleas (goes without saying, but I said it anyway)
Avoid Bees, especially those Big Black slow moving ones that look like they would be fun to catch. They aren't.

An illustration of this fact:

Lat night I was happily playing in the soft green grass of the big field near the school. It is covered with some kind of lovely little yellow flowers, possibly a weed - but very tickly when a pup runs through them. Samoa and I were as happy as could be. Then, disaster struck. I saw one of those big bees buzz by and tried to show Samoa some insect games. I reached for the bee - and missed. But not by enough. I hit it with my chin and it caught on fire. My chin, I mean. I didn't have any idea that those bees could be explosive, but they are. Pups, did that hurt!

Mama grabbed me and wrestled me to the ground, and messed with my chin. I think she was putting the fire out. Then I had to go home and have ice held on me. I got to lay my head in Mama's lap and watch the election returns which I am really tired of, but the whole lap thing would have been nice if my chin wasn't exploded. I really recommend not chasing those bees.

Today I was better, but my chin is kinda itchy. Mama says if I scratch too much I am going to have to wear the Hell Collar and I don't want to do that.

I'll let you know how this all works out, but really - take my advice and leave those bees alone!

I didn't know I could GET any more relaxed!

I had a bath the other day. Actually, it was Samoa who needed the bath - but being a water loving dog, I never complain. And this time was something really special. See, Mama bought some special shampoo to keep Samoa's black fur all nice. And she bought me one with Tea Tree Oil in it. They didn't have one for us yellow dogs and so she picked that one 'cos she had used Auntie Grandma's shampoo once and it was Tea Tree and it smelled good. So she thought I would like it. Boy, do I!

I smell so lovely and I am all soft and shiny blondness. I really like this stuff. The best part is when I am all wet and then Mama puts the shampoo on and massssssaaaaaaagggggges it in. Hoo boy. Talk about heaven! Even Samoa likes that part.

I smell better than he does now, 'cos he smells like fruit salad and I smell like tea tree, whatever the heck that is. It is NICE, though.

You should try it!

Savannah!

Lovable and Xtra-Large!

I do want to be lovable. I know Samoa has a natural advantage due to his fluffy coat and sad eyes. I have sad eyes. I give Mama my best sad look often, and it does get me love.

This morning, Mama leaned over to pet Samoa and I wanted to get petted too. Also, right behind Mama there was something interesting lying on the floor. I decided to combine two things and went behind Mama so she could use her left arm to pet me, her right arm to pet Sam-O and at the same time, I could check out whatever that was on the floor.

I misjudged the clearance area between Mama and the kitchen chair, however. Mama went one way and the chair went the other, and it turned out the the thing on the floor wasn't even edible. Nuts. I was hoping it WAS some nuts. I like Nuts, do you?

Anyway. Mama caught herself and picked up the contents of her purse which she dropped and everything was ok. We then went over to the counter and I CAREFULLY squeezed under the stool, only tipping it a little bit - so that I could get to my under counter cave. I have one there and I have one behind the rocking chair. Of course Samoa has to wedge in there with me and start chewing my toes. Bad habit he has. It really doesn't hurt, though - so I dozed off while he was doing it and then some noise startled me and I jumped up and Samoa fell down and so did the stool. Nobody was sitting on it, so that was good. But it did bang. Then I had to go outside for a "break." They made Samoa go too.

Savannah - too large for small spaces.

A Truly Ginormous Rabbit.

I am really worried about the size of some of these things. I mean - I'm talking BIG. That cat on the other side of the fence that almost blew over was out in the backyard stalking them, but I think he got worried because the last I saw of him he was hiding under the lilacs.

One of them was sitting down in the middle of the yard and I swear - he must have been a 20 pounder. I didn't even think they grew that big! Samoa was crying like he does when he wants to go play with something, but I think he thought it was a dog instead of a rabbit. But who knows - Samoa might want to play with Rabbits. Silly Puppy.

Mostly I sit up on the Deck and watch the critters, but right now I am a little nervous and I am going to see if Grandma will let me in the house. What if I fell asleep and that big one came over here and mistook me for a carrot or something. It is not likely - but not impossible. I would feel safer inside.

See you later. Savannah!

Barmaids needed for the BBQ Bar!

Especially French Poodle sorts! We are expanding Samoa's BBQ Bar and Sea Serpent Sighting Pier and we need to hire some barmaids to help out Mr. Jeepers and his assistant, Buddy!

If you are an attractive young pup, please click here and join the group! Work there is fun and the party never ends!

http://www.dogster.com/group/Samoas_pondside_bbq_ba r_and_sea_serpent_sighting_pier-13210

Comfort in the storms...

I used to be very afraid of thunderstorms. Whenever the least little bit of rumbling would start, I would get all jumpy and try to sit on Mama's lap or keep running in and out of the rooms. But since we got Samoa here, I am not so 'fraid anymore. He is a little worried about them himself, but not much. He goes over to the backdoor to watch when it booms, like he wants to see what is making that noise. I don't. I don't want to know!

Anyway, when it gets stormy - like it is right now - Samoa lets me curl up right next to him and it is comforting. After a while, it is easier to sleep. I think that he is not too worried helps me from getting really scared. He is a good boy. Next time I get a 'tato chip I will pretend I don't want it and then he can have it.

Savannah

Never Mind that Rabbit. I am in Love!

I haven't been in love for a little while now, because there is a lot of coming and going in our neighborhood and lots of times I would no sooner fall in love with some pup than I would never see him again. The only ones who stick around are either old, or female or unsuitable for some other reason, like extreme shortness or something. Not that I am a size snob, I love the little dogs! But they always seem like puppies to me. And I do love Samoa, but it isn't that romantic kind of love, and besides I think he has crossed eyes, the little weirdo.

BUT. Just yesterday I met a fascinating pup who Mama says is part Chow. Get this! His tongue is purple! Wow! And he is very large, almost as big as me. His head is bigger than mine! His name is Cho, which I think is a joke - like Joe, except with a "CH."

He is very handsome and while not a natural swimmer like me - he did not object to a jump in the pond. He swims very well and we spent some time splashing around and chasing each other. Then Mama walked us over to his house, because he was escaped from his yard and she wanted to tuck him in safe. At his house we met his Daddy who was very relieved we brought him back. He said I could come over and play with Cho anytime, and if we wanted they could come to the pond with us. That would be great!

Cho likes Samoa too, at least he was not too bothered by him. And that is a relief, since Samoa bothers most dogs. He bothers me at least.

Cho, Oh, Cho - I Love You So!
Savannah!

Rabbit Harassment...

I have just about had it up to here with that Rabbit who lives in our backyard. He is a sassy little furball and is very insulting in his personal comments. Of course, he has hit it off with Samoa who seems to be totally unaware that some animals you just DON'T make friends with. He says I am prejudiced because I do not associate with critters. Well, he associates with them too much, in my opinion.

My good friend Demon Flash Bandit feels that he may be a terrorist. Samoa, I mean, not the Rabbit. Though come to think of it, that Rabbit could be one too! I'll bet between him and that "Jingles/Pepe" fellow, they have corrupted my poor stupid boy and set him on a trail of mayhem and destruction.

Oh, Woe. I do not know what I will do without my boy to have somebody to chase around besides Mama. She is just NOT fast enough. And she won't jump in the pond either, at least not most of the time! (she does FALL in once in a while!)

Maybe if I make a call to the White House, I can get a special exception so poor corrupted Samoa does not end up in Guantanamo Bay. He would be so unhappy and I would miss him.

But back to that Rabbit. He can go to jail for all I care, since he is rude and I believe is pooping on my lawn. I don't think that should be allowed. He taunts me too, by sitting there puffing his cheeks at me when he knows I can't get at him. I'll bet he is on the most wanted list. I am sure he should be.

Yukon, here I come!

It is Alaska Night at the BBQ bar and we are getting set to whoop it up, Klondike style. If anyone has not joined our group you can do so here:

http://www.dogster.com/group/Samoas_pondside_bbq_ba r_and_sea_serpent_sighting_pier-13210

We think it is going to be a pretty exciting evening.

In other news, I am going fox hunting this weekend and try to put a stop to Samoa's involvement with terrorist foxes. He has fallen in with bad company and since he IS a pretty naughty pup I better put a stop to it, before something bad happens. I guess my best chance would be to push him in the mud headfirst and then go after Jingles the fox, while Samoa is distracted. Besides, I would REALLY LIKE to push him in the mud.

It is funny to see him cough and whine. Then may go eat some eggs and visit the ballfield park. See if I can find any leftover softballs. Them's good eatin'!

Savannah!

Mama falls into a critter hole...

I swear, I am starting to think I should never allow her to walk off leash! She always gets into something. This morning she was moving slower than usual and kept getting tangled up so I let her loose to fumble around while I ran ahead to look in the ditch for geese that might be hiding there. I kept looking back to make sure Mama was ok, and when I did she is waving her arms around and saying "Look, Look." She wasn't paying attention to where she walked and just then she fell in one of the critter holes. Samoa was closer to her and he helped her out. She thought it was funny. I really don't understand that sense of humor!

Of course I just went about my business looking for geese. Somebody has to stay on the job around here. When we got back to the house, Samoa had some wild story about meeting a critter. It was a kind of dog, he said. A little red dog that lived in a critter hole. He SAYS its name is "Jingles" and he has invited it to come to the BBQ Bar. I told him that If it lives in a hole it is NOT a dog. It is probably a FOX! I got out the encyclopedia but that page was missing and there were fresh teeth marks. I don't know if this "Jingles" ripped it out or if Samoa did it. I would tell Mama, but she might get upset to find she was standing in a FOX hole. So I just had breakfast which also included a piece of grilled fish that she made on her toy grill. That is so cute! Demon and Angels Mama said they use one all the time, so Mama went and got a little one. She likes it lots. We had chicken, and sausage so far.

Savannah - ever vigilant against Geese and other Critters.

Walking in the Rain...

Can be a very pleasurable experience! At least I think so. Yesterday was very gloomy and wet but we got our morning walk to the store and that was fun. I found several puddles to lay down in and if I lay flat enough I can get most of me wet. We came back across the big empty field and I ran after some rabbit scents but never saw a rabbit. I know they are there, though!

Then when it was getting time for afternoon walkies Mama acted like she didn't want to go 'cos it was raining! I kept hopping until she gave in. You know how that goes. You sit very still and intent and if the people so much as glance at you, you begin to hop frantically until they tell you to sit again. Repeat often and they get the idea.

So after a slight delay we had walkies and it was quite enjoyable. Rain makes no difference if you are lying in a puddle anyway. Of course, Mama and Samoa are looking unhappy and damp. They just don't get it! Jump in - the water is great! And only a LITTLE muddy! Sigh. True Luxury is a nice DEEP puddle, maybe 6-8 inches with a grassy bottom and some sticks and other interesting items strewn around!

Savannah - a wet dog, for sure!

Some sad news...

Yesterday I had two bits of sad news. Two of my Dogster Pals went to the bridge. My friend Elvis, who was one of my earliest Dogster Pals, succumbed to an illness that he had. He was very young and I just know his family is heartbroken because they have suffered with the loss of pups before in untimely ways. I miscounted, neither my Mama or me are good at Math and I told some friends that he was only 2. I blame it on being upset, because even though I AM bad at Math, I am usuaully not THAT bad.


And then just a little while later I got a 4 word pawmail from a recently made friend on Dogster. It said "read the latest entry." I did, and boy I wish I hadn't. I know this pup had a troubled situation and their human family was having problems with the landlord and all. I'm not identifying them here so that can remain private if they want. But anyway, this pup is gone. Euthanized. And I don't know what led to that, but wish that something else could have happened.

It is hard to be my usual cheery self with this kind of bad news. But I am determined not to get down. I am a lucky and happy pup and so is my sidekick, Samoa. I look at him and think what a hard life he might have had, being an orphan. Suppose Mama and Grandma had NOT brought him home? And me! I heard that sometimes us Big Labbies turn out to be too much of a handful and end up in the Humane Kennel. Mama and Grandma would never let that happen to me, but suppose I went with somebody who was not so devoted to me? Oh, it is an awful thought.

But my life is good and I wish it was the same for all pups. This morning I had some fish for breakfast and Mama checked me over for sores or bugs, even my hindey parts! And she gave both of us kisses and hugs and told us we get a nice walk tonight.

And tomorrow night we have the big Pirate Party to look forward to! I hope some of you can make it - join this group and have some fun with us!

http://www.dogster.com/group/Samoas_pondside_bbq_bar_ and_sea_serpent_sighting_pier-13210

Pirate's Ahoy!

Suzy Q. in our BBQ Bar Group, has suggested a "Pirate Night" which sounds like a good idea to me, because I already have a Pirate Costume from last Halloween.

Maybe we will do it Friday Night, since the Luau was such a success. I think we can get a boat and decorate it like a Pirate Ship and have a bonfire and fireworks to look like explosions. What should we have to eat?

Maybe Cajun would do, since it is pretty hot - And we could have Lemonade and those sodas that Sukie brought because they have pictures of Lake Monsters on them.

We are enjoying our Sandbox, which I have kicked most of the sand out of to make a nice place for me to lay. The sandbox is kind of a tight fit.

Mama says more sand is on the way to fill up the box again. What a great idea!

Hula, Hula!

Well, enough about Polka dancing - tonight is the night to break out the grass skirts, get out your flower leis and rock that Hawaiian shirt! It is Big Luau night at Samoa's Pondside BBQ Bar and Sea Serpent Sighting Pier. (if you want to join this group, just do a search in groups and join up! Everybody welcome!)

So, the menu looks delicious - my friend Sukie Lou Phalanges arranged it and has done most of the cooking. It is all Hawaiian style, but if you bring some young pups, we will have pizza and hot dogs too. (The kids don't want to eat the GOOD stuff!)

And then of course, the games and dancing begin. Prizes for everybody! And Midnight Sea Serpent watching for those who like a little mystery in their lives!

(note: the Sea Serpents are guaranteed to be vegetarian, so don't fret!)

Everybody Hula!

Savannah!

The Fine Art of Polka Dancing!

Have all of you pups had the opportunity to try Polka Dancing? I will admit, it isn't "cool" but I love to dance and Polka is more fun than most. For one thing, you need a partner, so if you can find a nice pup of the opposite sex, you get to hug and dance at the same time. And it is sort of like Roller Skating in pairs, but without wheels.

You grab each other around the middle and you prance madly around the room to Oompah music. Try to listen to Oompah without breaking into a Polka! It can't be done! My Mama grew up in what the news persons call an "Ethnic East Coast" city. Her personal ancestry does not involve the Polka, but many of the friends and neighbors included this in their wedding receptions to please the old grannies and so on. So Mama can Polka, and she taught me! WooHoo!

We are going to Polka at the wedding reception if Samoa and Angel actually manage to get married. Apparently it all depends on if he can learn to drive or not. Anyway, make sure you wear your dancing shoes 'cos the Oompah band is going to rock the house!

Savannah (Oompahpah!)

Beautiful Day!

It is, it really is! Mama didn't have to go to work until 1, so we got a nice long morning walkie, including swim.

Then we had some leftover Mac and Cheese (the GOOD kind, not the kind out of a box!) mixed with our Kibble. Mama noticed that my leash is kind of ragged so she is going to get us a new set, all red. And matching! We don't match, but we will both look good in red. I have a new martingale collar that is bright blue with red hearts and yellow stars! And Samoa wears a regular collar but he is tired of wearing the old one from Cotton which he says is a girl dogs collar and maybe it is. It is green w. little ladybugs. I could only wear it when I was tiny and wee.

Speaking of tiny and wee, Mama found Lolo trying to escape today. He is still so small that he could slip between the double gates when the other dogs push on it. He was wandering around the yard. Mama got him and put him back in his yard. She can still pick him up in one hand, so she thinks he isn't a Rastaweiller after all. The lady who lives there gave Mama a lecture when she brought me home at 6 weeks old. Mama loves it when people talk to her as if she doesn't know anything at all. Not really - that is sarcasm. It means she doesn't like it at ALL! Anyway, Mama did not choose to do that but it was right at the Thanksgiving holidays and it was plain that the breeders wanted the puppies to go to their new homes. And Mama wanted me home and I was never any trouble, so what was wrong with that?

Anyway, Lolo must either have been younger than 8 weeks or else something besides a Rastaweiller 'cos he aint growing. Maybe he needs some Mac and Cheese. I've got none left, though. I will ask if we can get some more and share.

Savannah!

Miss Blue Belle Reminisces...

I do remember when I was a tiny pup, no bigger than a mite. Whatever a mite is. Anyway, my Mama could pick me up in one hand and hold me without trouble. Now she can't pick me up at all. Anyway, back when I was a tiny pup, things seemed so much simpler. If I wanted to eat, I found the fur mama. If I wanted to bite, I found my brother Pig. If I wanted to sleep, I just did.

Now I have all kinds of things I need to watch out for. There are rabbits in the back yard and there is no telling what they might be up to. There is a large cat down there in the shrubs and he is definitely looking for trouble. The kids next door are screaming about something, I should probably go check. I thnk the phone is ringing and I know it is past time for lunch.

Ah, the good old days. I think I will let the rabbits, cats and neighbors children take care of themselves for a while. I am going to take a nap and dream about the simple life.

Love, Savannah!

Don't Poop on the Lawn.

Always good advice. Of course, I have to poop SOMEwhere, so Mama says try to poop in the field or on our lawn, since she loves me more than grass. Just don't poop on the neighbor's lawn, on the grouchy woman's lawn or on the lawn of that guy in the big white house by the school. At least he asked nice. He leaned out the door while Mama was trying to catch Samoa who had wandered into his yard.

And he said to Mama, those are sure beautiful dogs which of course we are. And then he said he would appreciate it if Mama did not let us poop on his lawn, because some people let their dogs and he wishes they wouldn't.

Mama guaranteed him that she would certainly never let us poop on HIS lawn, since it is such a nice lawn. She told him she tries to be careful with us, and that Samoa was in his yard in the hopes of meeting his cat. Turns out Samoa LIKES cats. Who can figure? The man was ok with Samoa visiting his cat, just not with the poop. So all was well there.

We had a very nice day though I did not get to go swimming. It started out all sunny and I was sure I would get a dip but by afternoon walkies it had gloomed up. I did get ham and eggs for dinner, though - so who can complain.

Hope you had a nice one too! And remember - don't poop on that man's lawn!

Savannah!

joie de vivre

One of my lovely friends said that I have this "joie de vivre." At first I was alarmed because I thought it was a condition. Mama says poor Cotton had so many conditions that it is amazing she was such a happy little dog. But she did and that isn't good and I don't want conditions. I got the worms once, that was bad enough.

But Samoa who pretends to know everything says it isn't a condition. Or that it is, but it is a good thing. He says it means that I enjoy life. And I do, that IS true. I love to run after geese through the long grass and jump in the cool pond to refresh myself! I love to run down the woods trails and rest on the wooden porch afterwards.

And of course I love to eat. My favorites are cheese and potatoes, but a girl has to watch her figger. Too much of that joie can slow ya down. And I would miss running after those geese.

Have Joie! And De Vivre too!

Savannah! Happy as always!

Menu Planning!

I love food, I won't pretend I don't. So since Samoa has opened up his new beach bar, I have the job of planning menus and doing some cooking, along with shore patrol. That is great, 'cos when I get hot from the kitchen, I can run out and jump in the pond, and call it work!

Yessir, we have some good eats here. I like cheese and potatoes so you will find a lot of them, and they are all low cal and healthy. They are special low cal and healthy dishes. Even if they are deep fried and sometimes covered in drippy cheese. Because if that boy can pretend to be seeing Sea Monsters, I can eat all the low cal cheese I want.

And I will save some for you, there is plenty!

Savannah, getting full!

Big Dog, Small World!

Lately I have noticed that people we meet have a decided preference for Samoa over me. Mama has explained this to me. According to her it is just because he is smaller and fuzzy and has better manners. I can't do anything about small or fuzzy, she says. But I could work on the manners issue. See, I am a jumper. I learned to do it as a special trick for my obedience classes. Mama taught me how to "Rabbit Jump." It got a good reception, as the trainer said "That's a lot of dog to get off the ground that way." I still like to do it, and sometimes do it when I get excited. And I get excited a lot when I meet new people or when I am trying to get someones attention.

Mama says I AM good most of the time, but have spells when I am not so good. Right now I am having one of them. I jump, grab and run off when called. Mama is working with me to help me remember what I am SUPPOSED to do, and then I will be better. She says I AM a good dog. Samoa is just more naturally polite, and so it is easier for him. He is a Shepherd and I am a Lab and that is just how it is. Her other Lab was ornery when young too. But after she turned 2, she steadied down a little, so maybe I will too.

I did not cause the chicken to burn, when I ran off on Sunday while Mama was trying to baste. The chicken turned out extremely tasty and I got a piece. In the future I will try very hard to follow directions and not risk the chicken getting burned. Or bothering the neighbors or small children or old people. I AM a good dog. And I AM prettier than Samoa, just on a large scale. Some people think pretty means small and fluffy, but my Mama loves the way I am! I got a good Mama.

Love, Savannah (living large!)

Sea Serpents and Samoa.

just read his diary. I can't write, I am laughing so hard, I can't stand up.

just read it.

If I were a Goose...

And thank goodness I am not, but if I were one I would find a better place to leave my eggs instead of in a ditch near the creek. I went back yesterday to check on the goose nest and all the eggs were gone. Mama said probably a fox got them. She reminded me that last year the big goose family ended up with only one baby goose 'cos the rest got done in by Snapping Turtles or foxes.

That makes me glad I am a dog since Snapping Turtles haven't bothered me - at least not so far. I hope that continues.

If I WERE a goose, I would keep my eggs in an egg carton like the chickens do. That way I could carry them around with me and they wouldn't get crushed or eaten by foxes. Though I can understand why a fox would want eggs, I know I do.

Tomorrow is Sunday. Often we get eggs for breakfast on Sunday. I hope we do.

I am going to go give Samoa a cleaning up, he is looking kind of raggedy. He was up last night practicing with his Reggae band. I have to say they sound pretty good. Lolo from next door started it. He is a Rastaweiler and knows a lot of tunes.

Love, Savannah!

Goose Eggs...

We had eggs for breakfast today because I continue to be finicky. But I am really getting fond of eggs. Mama cooks them scrambled in a little bacon grease and then today she stirred some leftover ham bits in. Delish! Of course we get a small amount of this mixed with our Innova/Evo kibble mixture. But it is very good.

Eggs are funny things. I see Mama fixing them, but did you know those little white containers they come in are straight out of a bird? Last night when we went for walkies we were doing some goose chasing and I found an amazing thing. It was next to one of the creeks and it was a big pile of feathers with some of those round white containers in it. Maybe 8 of them. These were kind of dirty and larger than the ones in the fridge. Mama said they came out of the goose that was honking at us and acting strange. She said we should leave them alone. But I couldn't. I picked one up. It felt very strange. I wouldn't give it back but thought I would carry it home with me like Samoa is always carrying junk home with him.

But I put it down for a second while Mama gave me a dog biscuit and then I could not find it again. Mama says this will mean one less goose for me to chase, and I feel bad about that. Maybe I can find it tonight and bring it home and sit on it. Do you think that would work?

Savannah (feeling nurturing)

Chicken Soup for the Dog.

Mama works in a book place. Lots of people like those Chicken Soup Books. They have a Chicken Soup for the Dog Lover's Soul which I have read when Mama brought it home. I love dogs, of course. I am one.

But how about just having a Chicken Soup for the Dog. It could have helpful advice like the kind Demon Flash Bandit gives (not the kind Samoa gives) And it could have lots of recipes for Chicken Soup. For the Dog.

Because we should all have some more chicken soup. Mama only knows two kinds of chicken soup and they are both good. One is spicy and one is not. But I think that she should branch out and make more different kinds. Then we could have it everyday. And that would be good for MY soul.

Samoa is having hysterics because Mama squirted him with the hose last night after he stupidly fell into the big black mudhole. He was barking his brains out at a big pile of dirt and tried to detour away from it and fell in. Dummy. He keeps saying he was spit on by the water snake. Things I have to put up with.

Savannah. (ever tolerant, but wishing for soup.)

Same Old Food.

Yesterday we had scrambled eggs for breakfast which is delightful. I recommend it to anyone. Then Mama had to work in the evening so she asked Grandma to uncork us a can of our dog food and mix it with the kibble. Grandma did this, but I decided that I did not care for that dogfood anymore and would not eat it.

When Mama got home, Grandma told her I wouldn't eat. Mama tried to finger feed me, no go. I didn't want it. I wanted some eggs. Or a big scoop of the leftover chicken soup. I know there is a whole potful in the fridge. Mama gave my food to Samoa, but said "no eggs" because then Sam-O would want one too and he already had two dinners so he shouldn't have another one. (He DOES eat too much!)

She gave me a hot dog and a piece of lunch meat which I ate. So then she knew that I wasn't sick, just fussy. This morning I DID get scrambled eggs. So now that I know the control I have over my food dish, you can bet I am going to make the most of it!

Chicken soup or nothing tonight! Get out the Soup Ladle, Mama!

Savannah (soup eatin' dog!)

Somebody is in trouble...

And it isn't me. It would be that other dog that lives in my house and he is in trouble for impersonating Demon Flash Bandit on the Advice Pages. And he is giving terrible advice, like telling some puppy that its owner is confused about love nips and real biting, so it should REALLY bite the owner to help them tell the difference! Is that good advice?

He told me (and pretended it came from Demon) to chew things up so that Mama can't get her housework done. I am sure that would get me in trouble if I listened.

And of course, he spends a lot of time flirting with his girlfriend who is Demon's sister. I will bet he gets it for this one.

I will hold him down while Demon paddles him. He needs it.

Savannah. (not taking advice from Samoa)

I didn't do it!

I didn't go into the shed and eat the power washer hose. It was Samoa. I hope they know that, since I am afraid I have kind of a bad rep with hoses, if you know what I mean. Mama dragged the power washer out from the heap and was going to use it tomorrow. But she left the shed door open and when Grandma came out later, Samoa (it really WAS him) had torn open the box and the hose was all chewed.

And I didn't do it, I hope they know that. I do not even like the way the power washer hose tasted. So I only bit it once, I did NOT chew it up. I really didn't.

You'll back me up on that, won't you?

Savannah. (hose connoisseur)

Spring is here...time to behead some pansies!

It has been very nice here for the past week or so. Last night me and the boy slept on the deck part of the night and we went swimming yesterday. We also go to the playground to climb on the jungle gym set. Samoa discovered how to do this and now we both do. I climb around better but he will go down the sliding boards and I can't yet.

We have lots of flowers - daffodils in the yard and the pear trees are all blooming. The lilacs and dogwoods and the little apple tree are all getting set to flower. Mama went to Lowes yesterday to buy more yard stuff and brought back a basket of pansies. I have trimmed them a little, but not real bad. She moved them outside my fenced area so I can't trim them anymore.

Samoa likes to get in the water more and more but he is really pathetic as a swimmer. He can't remember to kick his back legs. It looks like he is trying to walk on the bottom of the pond. He splashed over the the little pier and Mama had to go drag him out by the collar. When he is wet, his big plumey tail looks like a drowned rat.

I of course, look lovely and athletic.

I love spring.

Salamander Samoa!

He NEVER reads my diary, he is too busy chewing on the toys that used to be mine. But he can have them because I don't want toys that are all covered with Samoa spit.

My friend Demon and I have gotten Demon's little sister to call Samoa a "Salamander" which is a kind of lizard. We are hoping it will cause the two of them to have a spat and break up the LOVE FEST. They are always cooing and preening. I seriously don't know how come a pretty pup like Angel wants anything to do with a mess like Samoa anyway. He is noisy and greedy and sloppy and takes up too much space.

Demon says they are made for each other. Maybe I could buy Samoa a bus ticket and send him to visit Angel. Hmmmn. That might be a good idea.

Hey, everybody send your best wishes to Sukie, who was lured into an accident by a Ferret. She is ok and eating ice cream, which is a really good plan for recuperation.

Savannah!

I Understand Everything You Say...

But listening to you is a different story all together. Because you might tell me to come back in the fenced yard, but there is another dog over there and I want to go visit. Or you might tell me to stop pulling Samoa's tail, but he just nipped me on the ear, and so I need to retaliate.

I should have called this entry "Why I Don't Listen to my Mama." Basically I do. But under certain circumstances, she just should realize that other matters have precedence. Like jumping in the mud or chasing geese and so on. For a person, she is uncommonly perceptive - sometimes you would think she is almost as smart as a dog. But she seems totally unable to smell interesting things and to understand my need to investigate them. She doesn't hear so well either. Just the other day, the beagle boys were out on the hunt at the same time we were walking by the creek. She went on like she never even heard them baying "come here, come here!"

Of course I had to go see what they had, and the fact that it led through briars and mud is beside the point, don't you think?

I mean, even Samoa (and he is SUCH a good boy) sometimes wanders off to investigate something. He is such a ninny, though - that he usually walks right next to Mama saying his feet hurt or the water is cold or something.

No sense of adventure!

Anyway, I guess I have it pretty good. I mean it isn't like Mama REALLY expects me to listen. Except about that whole truck chasing issue. And about eating whatever that was that I dragged out of the creek yesterday. I didn't really want to eat it anyway.

Savannah! (no so hungry right now)

Easter!

Easter is a people holiday, but I have noticed that we pups usually get some good extra treatment then. Well, at least Samoa and I do, and I hope you all do too!

I know Mama is talking about a big dinner and she said something about roasted chicken, so I am all for that! And maybe we can get some of my favorite Mashed Potatoes, too!

If Mama is around that usually means some really good walks and even swimming. I wish we could take a drive to the park, maybe I will ask. Samoa has not had an Easter before, so I can tell him all about the bunnies and the eggs and stuff. I am sure we will get some more hard boiled eggs to eat. And this time I will try not to eat too many of them.

Mama has a special egg that she put in the refrigerator. She called it the "Chocolate Egg." I know we can't have chocolate so it is not for us. But I would like to see it because I did not know that eggs came in flavors.

Happy Easter to all pups!

Savannah!

Fields to run in!

I am having a great time lately and getting lots of exercise by running in the beautiful big grassy field that Mama found. It is more than an acre, and we don't know who it belongs to, but she takes me and Samoa there to run without getting near cars. I can still run faster than Samoa, but he is getting better and has learned to run loops. When he runs loops I can't QUITE catch him because he turns so fast and I can't.

Sometimes we chase geese or the tennis ball if there aren't any, and sometimes we can find old dried up bones to play tag with. Probably deer bones, Mama says. She won't let us keep them, but it is fun to chase for them once in a while.

I hope that spring is coming for all you pups and that you are having as happy a time as me and my boy Samoa!

Love, Savvy!

A Lovely Day!

The sun is shining, robins are here in the branches of the pear trees which are all in bloom. Interesting smells fill the air and the grass is delightful to roll in.

I am happy, happy with everything. I know I am a lucky dog. Later today I hope to go for a run and really stretch my legs and maybe get a swim in. And then lie in the sun by the back door for a while before dinner.

What a life!

Savannah (a lucky dog!)

Ate Too Much

We had some hard boiled eggs. I ate too much.

I gotta go lay down.

(Urp)

The Importance of Sharing.

Really, sharing is SO important as all good doggies know. You should share your bed, your snacks, your chewies and all the good things that your Mama gives you. If you are a small and orphaned raggedy little black dog you should ALWAYS make sure that the lovely large yellow dog who lives with you gets her fair share and then some because she is older, more beautiful and LARGER than you are. This is just how it is.

The gang over at Fatboy's has been trying to explain some of this to Samoa, but in addition to his other failings, he appears to be a little slow on the uptake, so he isn't getting it yet. I understand it takes time, and was happy that at least he showed a small bit of awareness this morning when the two of us participated in a 2 at a time belly rub session!

Mama had both of us on the kitchen floor on our backs while the coffee was brewing and was giving us both chin chucks and belly rubs. I did get a little more attention (because I have a larger chin and belly so that is just as it should be.)

I enjoyed it very much and only gave Samoa one small nip while it was going on. He tried to nip me 3 times, but Mama put her fingers in his mouth and told him to stop.

Now, if I can just get him to share his chewies!

Your pal, Savannah!

No Wolf, He!

But a crying ninny of a little sheepdog. He talks big, and sometimes bites big too but when the fat gets in the fire, who is the dog you want to call on? Me, you want to call on me. Because I've got experience. I have never actually done much myself you understand, but I was standing next to the guy who was doing things, and so I believe I am qualified.

Plus, I can fight dirty and that means I am tough. But I have a sensitive side, and will show you if you ask me a hard question. This means I am a REAL dog and not just one who speaks well.

Samoa has no experience. He is only 5 months old or so, and you have noticed that he IS a black dog. Not that there is anything wrong with that. It just means that all the black dogs are naturally going to like him better, because they are jealous of me. I can't help it that I am so smart and have so much experience! I have seen the rough side of things too and believe you me, I am a fighter. I will fight for the little dog. Where is he, I want to fight for him.

Samoa does not know how to answer phones when they ring, either. If they ring in the evening, he always yells for Mama to answer it. If they ring in the middle of the night he pretends he is sleeping. He isn't. He just does not know what to do. But I do. I have experience.

So you can count on me. That is a figure of speech which means I'm your girl!

Love, Savannah!

What Large Sharp Teeth you have!

Samoa has all his adult teeth now and they are very large and sharp and very white. When he nips it hurts less but more than when they were little and sharp. The little sharp ones stung and sometimes drew blood, but these large ones are more effective in the grab and twist technique. My poor chops get twisted once or twice every day.

I have to admit, I am not blameless in this. I have found a lot of pleasure in grabbing Samoa by his large, plumey tail. Show off. I like to give it a yank when he is skipping around waving it like it was a big feather.

I think he is also proud of his teeth because he grins sometimes to show them all off. He is not snarling, he is grinning and Mama is trying to get a picture of him doing it. The teeth look very white and large next to his black hide. He is very black.

Maybe he is a vampire. I am going to have to keep an eye on this.

Bela Samoa.

Slightly punctured Savannah.

Chillin'

Boy, is it! We didn't get that snow which so many of our dogster pals got, mostly we got rain and now it has cleared off and it is COLD! Both Sam-O are ok with that and good thing, too. 'Cos we are getting to spend a lot of time outside yesterday and today. See we have company and the company has some kiddies and the kiddies are small and I guess these people never heard about the wolf boy, because they won't let me near the kids. It is true, I do tend to knock them down, but that will toughen them up for the knocks they will take in later life.

So today I am getting plenty of cool, fresh air. And Mama says if there are any eggs left, I can have some scrambles eggs and ham tonight. Makes it worth it.

I would like to kiss on those kids though.

Perfectly lovable, Savannah!

Goose Girl

Well, I haven't had any geese to chase for a while. I don't know where they went, but I missed the excitement of scaring their fat goose bodies up into the air.

Yesterday, they were back. It was rainy outside and Mama and Grandma had to do some shopping, and when they got back Mama said we could go for a walk anyway, because you can only get so wet. So we did and a good one, with lots of pond jumping because you can only get so wet. And I already was. When we started back we usually get leashed and taken down the road so we don't get muddy on top of being wet, but this time in the empty cornfield we spotted some geese. Mama knows how MUCH fun goose chasing is, so she pointed me at them and away I went. Samoa came too, though he didn't know why and can't run as fast. I spooked a LOT of geese yes, I did!

They take off and go way up in the air honking and blubbering 'cos they can't lay in the mud and nap anymore.

All Geese Fear Me!

Savannah, somewhat winded but very pleased.

Swimming Lessons...

Samoa is trying very hard to be a Labrador. If you tell him this, he will deny it, but he is.

He has trouble swimming but when he sees me jump in the pond to fetch sticks it drives him crazy 'cos he want to do it too. And so he has started jumping in the pond and sinking for the most part. Yesterday he was a LITTLE better. He kicks his front legs but keeps trying to leave his back legs on the ground. Mama says I am her "deep water" retriever and he is a "shallow water" retriever. She says we can specialize.

Okay by me, but I have to say, he looks completely silly with his head sticking out of the water and thrashing around like that. He should stick to sheep. I mean, if he is a shepherd doesn't that make more sense? I can take care of the wet business and he can stay out in the fields looking for nice dry sheep.

Then everything gets done without a lot of trouble. Mama has to come with me, though. I need somebody to throw the sticks.

Your Deep Water Pal, Savannah!

Sea Sick On Dry Land....

Well, my turn now. I got the sickies from the chicken poop and now I might have to go to the vets. I hope not. Yesterday or the day before Samoa was more sick than I am.

Now I feel a little seasick on dry land. Not that I let a thing like that slow me down. Last night I went puddle jumping and wrestled Samoa to the ground for 3 falls. I am the champ, and he better not forget it.

Afterwards we went back for dinner and a while after that I tossed mine back up. Samoa very nicely came over and lay down on my toes to keep them warm after I lay down to recover myself. He isn't all bad, you know.

I feel a LITTLE better today.

Savannah.

Bugs in the Works...

We might be sick. Or we might be silly. See, when spring comes that local farmers spread chicken doody all over the fields near abouts to grow corn in. You possible remember Mama's difficulties in keeping me out of the chicken doody last year. And this year she is having the same trouble with both me AND Samoa. We came across some chicken doody in the field while heading out for our Sunday Walk. And of course - we tasted it. Samoa was then puny acting all day and wouldn't eat or drink unless Mama hand fed him, but if you ask me he was laying it on kind of heavy. He wanted to get hugged, and it worked.

I got some hugs too, but chicken doody usually has the result of me making me hurl my cookies and I have to admit that ain't so cuddly.

So we are on dry kibble diet and no field running for a day or two. If we can't keep the food down, we have to go to the vets. 'Cos it might be bugs, but we hope not.

Sigh. I'm telling you - you would eat the chicken doody too if you had a chance. So no snickering!

Savannah (queasy.)

How Many Boyfriends are Too Many Boyfriends?

Is it like Donuts? There is no such thing as too many donuts?

'Cos I like a lot of boy dogs, and mostly they seem to like me. I like Kierke out there in Far Alaska, and I like Kruz, and Toby from FatBoy's Place. I like FatBoy himself, when it comes to that!

I like Demon Flash Bandit - he is like a movie star, he is so handsome. Who would NOT like him?

Does this make me a Bad Girl? I mean it isn't like I can be leavin' pups all over the place or anything. That has all been taken care of. (Instead of a dear pup of my own, I got Samoa but that is another story!)

So what do you all think? Am I a Heartless Jezebel?

Sigh. Have a cookie, dears.

Pork Chops.

Has anybody here ever had a Pork Chop? I often recommend foods, but as far as I know I have not had a Pork Chop before, and I think I would remember. If you have never had one, you really should get your people to dish some up. Mama says some people won't eat Pork Chops, so she guesses they wouldn't feed them to their dogs either.

Fortunately she is not one of them. I can only say that Pork Chops are the best food on the whole spinning planet. If there is anything better it would be TOO GOOD to allow.

I asked for more and she said, maybe at the weekend since she has a bunch and is going to make them for company. And it the company doesn't want them (they ARE strange) then I can have one. Or two. Or more, I hope.

So far there has been no reaction to Samoa's Love Poem. I am waiting to see what happens when his girlfriend reads it. Yesterday I took him to a party, and had to end up putting him in a sack because he behaved so badly. Drunk, you know. Green Beer.

I tell you.

Savannah - An Eater of Pork Chops!

Poetry Swap

Samoa has been writing these icky sweet poems to Angel and I have been finding them and putting them in with the P-Paper so he ends up doing his business on them because he can't remember to go outside. When he finds out that his great romantic poems are p-paper, boy does he get mad.

He wants to send them to Angel. So I told him that I saved the best one and sent it. He is such a doof. What I did was send a poem that I got using a poetry generator I found online. The poem is really dumb, so Angel will not know that he didn't write it. And even she will have to wonder what is wrong with him.

A Poem about Meatballs! Hahahahahaha! Demon is going to love this one. Wait until Angel reads it! Hahahahaha.

Savannah (pulling very funny jokes!)

What if a Dog is a Copy Cat?

Samoa is. He is always picking on me, but Mama says he is jealous and wants to be like me. He is not like me. He is short and black and wooly and I am large and rangy and yellow. Buttercup yellow. I am a beauty, Mama always says so.

I love to swim and Samoa can't. It is pathetic, he can't even figure out how to kick his back legs so he keeps sinking. Mama has to haul him out. Yesterday I was playing fetch in the creek and he kept trying to fetch but he was afraid to go in the water. Pathetic.

Then he found a little trickling place where he could get in and not have to swim. Mama threw him little sticks and he splashed up and down just like I do, but in water that wouldn't even get my feet wet. What a joke.

He was swaggering all the rest of the day, because he is a "Big Dog." Right.

He tries to hog all the toys too. Despicable.

Your frustrated and slightly damp friend, Savannah!

Savannah's Cookery Class!

OK, todays recipe is Hamburger Soup. First you frizzle up some hamburger in the fry pan. You can get your Mama to do this part! Then you add some soupy stuff like chicken broth. You can also put some frozen veggies in for extra nutrition. I like Potatoes, Green Beans, Brocolli and Carrots. There were some Peas too. Heat it all up and serve over kibble for a tasty mix of crunchy deliciousness.

You can do the same thing with Chicken and that is even better.

It is a cold and rainy/icy day here in this "Delmarvalous Peninsula" and soup is just the ticket!

Enjoy!

A Better Day!

Yesterday went better than the day before. I was not hit by any trucks yesterday. One went by, and I stopped to look at it, but did not try to catch it. On walkies I was very polite. Samoa did NOT come - he stayed home and cried. Because I am good when he is not there, plainly it is all his fault.

If he were not around I would be good. But I guess I would miss the little skunk. Mama suddenly realized that he has a strong resemblance to a cartoon skunk named Pepe Le Pew. So we are going to call him that.

Mama is going to go online and find me and Pepe a new collar because she has decided a Martingale (hard to find in this neck of the woods) would do the trick instead of a whole harness. I have an old faded one, and it slips tight so I can't wiggle my neck out of it. Pepe is going to get one as well, because he might start getting ideas, though I have seen no sign of that yet.

He keeps yelling that he wants a red one, but I know Mama will pick one out that suits me best. Because I am beautiful, she always says so. And Samoa is a cartoon skunk.

Your pal, Savannah!

Oh, my Aching Head!

Well, I guess I have been bad once too often. Mama says that my ornery days are done. See, I really love off leash walking. So much so, that I have figured out how to get off leash and walk whenever I want to.

First, I wait until Mama is distracted, like if Samoa starts digging a hole or something. Then I step backwards, put my head down and give a little twist and freedom! Wow! I am off leash, what a surprise! Now I will take a little walk while Mama tries to teach anything to Samoa and good luck with that!

However, my high spirits yesterday got me in big trouble. See, where I pulled loose was in the complaining ladies yard. And Mama doesn't want to hear her complain, so she was trying to get me to come - especially since there was a lot of traffic right then. I didn't come. I saw an especially interesting pickup truck and then I saw stars. I got knocked down and hit my head. The driver of the pickup truck was very upset, because he thought he had killed me. Mama was yelling and shaking me and then the stars went away and I was alright again. But my head does hurt.

Mama thanked the pickup driver for being nice enough to stop and told him it was totally not his fault. It was totally my fault. Or hers, for not teaching me better.

So I have to go to PetsMart with her and get a harness so I can't wiggle loose anymore. Samoa has to wear one too. He is very angry, because he says it will spoil the look of his wavy fur. I am afraid it will get in the way of my swimming, but what can I say? I have been very, very bad.

(note from Savvy's Mama: I kept a close eye on Savannah to make sure there was no damage, and amazingly she is fine. She really took a hit there. I can't chance her doing this again, and she is going to get some rehab leash training and a harness for my peace of mind. My sympathies to anyone who has not been as lucky as me and Savannah. Trucks and cars can be fatal, and we take this warning as a blessing. )

Why I like Mud...

I don't think there is anything like the feel of fresh, oozy mud. It is one of life's truly pleasurable sensations. In the summertime when it is too hot, it will cool and refresh your toes. And the rest of you if you can find a big enough puddle. For me, that means a REALLY large puddle, but I can mostly come up with something.

In the summer Mama takes me to the pond almost everyday, so I can get wet. Or muddy. Or both. Life is good.

And in the winter, puddles are all over the place and even more interesting. Sometimes they get hard icy and then you can slide around on the top. Sometimes they get soft icy and you can break it up and splash around in the water underneath. And it is COLD! But cold is good, unless you are a sissy dog like Samoa.

I'll bet he is the kind of dog that wants to sunbathe. Or stay inside when it is too hot or cold. Weenie!

Cold mud also has a really interesting texture, it is less smooth and more ooshy that warm mud. I think I like it best.

Right now I have a big patch of dry mud on my left rear because I found a big puddle and I was tired of walking so I lay down in it.

You should try this, unless you are aWeenie.

Your Pal, (mudstained) Savannah!

Missed the Boat...

Well, Friday morning came and went and so did the transport to Australia that I had arranged for Samoa. I had him all excited about it, he was looking forward to the trip. I told him it was a Penal Colony and he thought that meant they made Penal Butter there because his spelling is not very good.

Unfortunately, he was reading over my shoulder while I was visiting Fat Boy's Place in the groups and it dawned on him that it is NOT Penal Butter but P.E.A.N.U.T. Butter. So he checked up on me and figured out my plan. Nuts.

Also, it was going to be hard to get him on the boat because he is currently stuck to the dining room drapes. He is all full of cockleburrs and P.E.A.N.U.T. Butter. And that is a long story.

Basically, I had nothing to do with it. I am blameless, but you probably already know that!

Savannah (I have done NOTHING wrong!)

Pups in the Pines!

Well, I am flattered to see I have once again been a Diary pick! I didn't find out until late today because Mama did not check her computer. She had a dentist appt. which I understand is not a happy thing. Anyway, it paid off for me and my bad boy Samoa because she took us for a walk in the woods after the dentist, to settle her down. AND IT SNOWED LAST NIGHT! So the walk was really special! I love snow and so does the devil boy, apparently. Maybe because when I knock him down he slides instead of crashing. Who knows?

Anyway, this time we found a great place to play tag. Samoa STILL doesn't run too fast (because he is fat, I suspect) and I have to handicap myself so I don't win too easily. But in the pine trees it sort of evens us up - I am faster but cannot turn as easily. He is slow but corners well. So we played hide and seek all through the pines until we were quite tired.

Mama waited for us, but while she was, she stepped off the path and was instantly covered with cockleburrs. And then of course Samoa jumped into them and got about 3000 all over his fuzzy hide. We had to spend the rest of the morning picking them off of him. Not to mention Mama.

I love to walk in the Pines and hope to go back tomorrow. It smells so nice there, plus sometimes you see rabbits.

Thanks to all of my lovely friends who have sent goodies and greetings! It is a great day for me, and I hope you all have one too!

Savannah (sufficiently humble!)

I will put THIS up to a vote...

I guess I am becoming softer in my views towards the evil little furball known as Samoa. He is crazy and reckless and a nuisance and all kinds of trouble. He tried to put a frog in my milk!

But in the spirit of Democracy, I will take a poll and see how many of you think I should deport him - to Australia where he is from, and how many of you think I should leave him stay here in this country in spite of the fact that he is both an illegal alien and a misuser of frogs.

So what is it going to be? Does he stay or does he go? Angel Zoom Smokey, don't YOU answer, I think I know what you are going to say. Don't you think you would be better off with a lovely purebred dog, maybe Demon could arrange a match for you? Anyway, think it over pups.

But let me know soon. The boat leaves Friday morning. Should I put him on board or not?

Savannah (trying to be fair about this)

Tasty Bones Liver Flavor Breakfast Cereal...

Has asked me to be their spokesdog in their upcoming campaign. I guess my reputation is getting around after I was campaign chairman for Demon Flash Bandit in the state of Maryland. Today is poll day and things are looking good for him! Many pups passed by my house on their way to the polling place at the schoolyard. I noticed many of them carrying the sharpened pencils we gave out at last weekends campaign events. So I have hopes of a big Demon turnout. I'll be glued to the news tonight, you can bet. I hope Mama has some pretzels for me to munch on. I get the munchies when I get excited!

Anyway, now I am representing this Cereal Brand, and you can see my picture on the box. It isn't the best picture of me, but I did try to look hungry. I WAS hungry actually - I usually am.

My little brother Samoa has started a new group for his former girlfriend Soleil. You can join here: http://www.dogster.com/group/Admirers_of_soleil_a_really_goo d_pup-12581

She is a really good pup and deserves a break. We are happy to see she got a boyfriend, named Gizzmo. He is a real sweetheart! You go, Soleil!

Your pal, Savannah - "Eat Tasty Bones!"

Politics and Grilled Meat...

We had a great weekend! Even Samoa behaved himself reasonably well. (Though of course I have NO idea of what he was doing when he was out of my sight.) We have a big Political Picnic for Demon Flash Bandit, and got a lot of pups to promise to vote for him. We gave away free pencils because the pups are going to have to write his name in.

For some reason, his name did not appear on the ballot here in Maryland. A huge oversight, but with the groundswell of support we are seeing, we expect a victory on Tuesday.

We held workshops on printing Demon's name and we had rally speeches and a great grilled chicken dinner. I am sure that lots of these pups are going to march down to the polls and get our candidate elected.

Because "all work and no play" is not something that we dogs can get into, we also had pup races and dancing. I danced a little with everybody, but most often with Kruz, who has invited me to a Valentine's Dance at Stator's place.

It is going to be a great Valentine's Day 'cos we will have this primary behind us and be ready to head to the general election and then the White House!

After Valentine's I am going on a cruise to Hawaii. I am going to take Samoa with me, because when we get to Hawaii I am going to put him on a freighter to Australia, where he is from. Once again I am doing my Civic Duty by personally deporting an illegal alien.

Your Pal - Savannah!

My sweet little brother...

I have to say that sometimes that little brother of mine can be really sweet. I was not too happy with him yesterday because I had to hide behind the sofa all day. To avoid getting arrested! I didn't come out for lunch because it was only kibble, so in the late afternoon I was feeling pretty weak and hungry.

When Mama gets home she usually takes us for a walk before we get our dinner, so I knew it was going to be a while before I got anything to eat. And then along comes Samoa. He had been having tea with Grandma and telling her all about his problems so she gave him a piece of butter cake. And he brought it to me. True, he had eaten it along the edges and it was pretty soggy, but I was so hungry that I gobbled it right up. Then I was able to take a nap, and he laid right down there and had a nap with me. Sweet.

He said he is so unhappy that he thinks he will arrest himself before he gets in any more trouble.

Either that or join the army so he can be a soldier. He put his old bowl on top of his head for a helmet and said he will think it over.

Maybe I will not get him deported after all.

Your friend (full now) Savannah!

Savvy on the Run...

Samoa has done it now! He is in so much trouble for his serial flirting that he isn't going to have any dates to the Valentine's Dance! But to make it worse, he has plastered this Wanted Poster of me all over the place. And now the police dogs are after me. I guess I will end up in jail and miss the dance myself.

I had a big breakfast today and now am in hiding so that I can try to avoid being arrested before Mama gets home. If they don't find me before then, I might be safe. I will squeeze behind the sofa and skip lunch. Unless it is REALLY good, and then I might risk it. Not comin' out for just kibble, though.

And listen, it isn't worth it to turn me in for the Pig Ear Reward. It is an old pig ear and is all chewed on and soggy. Seriously, I wouldn't want anything that Samoa had in HIS mouth. And he doesn't have anything else to give you because his party clothes got wet and muddy and he lost his badge and bandanna. He only has a wobbly star made out of tinfoil and a plastic bowl with the edges chewed off. Oh, and he has a stick he found somewhere.

All the toys are mine! So if he offers you a toy, I could take you to court for recieving stolen property. Or something. I am not making threats, I don't WANT to take you to court, but I don't want to go to jail either so please don't turn me in.

Read Samoa's Diary and see how bad he has been. Who do YOU think should go to jail?

Your Fugitive Friend, Savannah.

Election Fever!

Wow, what a night! As I predicted Demon Flash Bandit won easily. I was at the celebration party, and got my picture taken with the Candidate. Angel was there too and Demon told her to stay right with him after all the trouble Samoa got her into. We had to bail them out. Destruction of property and public disorderly conduct. They were pulling down election posters and Samoa was doing grafitti (mispelled) all over the sidewalks.

I feel really bad about Angel getting caught up in this, but it was real funny to see my Samoa sitting in a holding cell with his cowboy outfit all wrinkled and covered with mud. (Not that he would care about that!) He lost his sheriff's badge too. Of course, he had to crowd into the victory photo. He has no sense of propriety.

In spite of this, it was a great evening. I am so glad to have backed the winning candidate. But it is not all over yet! We have quite a few primaries to go through, including one in my home state, Maryland. I have invited Demon and Angel to spend some time at our house (virtually) so they can work on the campaign.

Go Demon Flash Bandit!

Your Civically Responsible Friend, Savannah!

Royal Princess for Mardi Gras! (and diary pick!)

Two great honors are mine today! First of all I got chosen to be one of the Royal Princesses for Mardi Gras. Also chosen was my dear friend Sukie Lou (dog of mystery) because we are so pretty! Really we are! We got to ride on a float and throw stuffed toys and pig ears to the crowds of pups that were watching the parade. It was a really special time.

Things didn't start too well, because we lost Angel and Samoa. I think that is Samoa's fault and he better turn up soon, because Demon is quite upset. I wouldn't like to upset him, he is going to be President. And he will probably have Samoa arrested and then deport him, since he is an illegal alien. I wonder if Australia will want him back? Or any of those other countries he might be from. Angel, I am sure, is smart enough to take care of herself but she is unreasonably fond of Samoa and he has NO sense. And they are wearing masks which makes them harder to recognize. But Samoa has that dumb cowboy outfit on, so from up here on the float we should be able to spot him.

Demon is busy right now with getting elected, so Kierke and Leda and Sukie and I will find the kids. And I am going to spank Samoa. Today, along with it being "Fat Tuesday" it is "Super Tuesday" and all kinds of voting is going on. By the end of the day, we expect Candidate Demon to have a lock on the nomination. Watch the news tonight and you will probably see us at the Victory Party/ Valentine's Dance!

Last night I had a challenging walkie experience. We went down to the school and Mama is making me "toe the line." I was very good but then stuff started to happen which was beyond my control. First a bunch of kids ran by. Have I mentioned that I love kids? So I had to go play with them, of course. And then we were almost home and Ruby and Roxy got out of their house and ran over to visit. Their owner came after them and it was a big mess. We got all tangled up and Mama had to carry Samoa (she almost can't pick him up anymore!) So I was not TOO good on walkies, but it wasn't my fault. Mama knows that.

And now today I find I am one of the Diary Dogs! How splendid!

Vote For Demon Flash Bandit! He is the Dog for Us!

Your pal, Savannah! (Have a great Fat and Super Tuesday!)

Dog Town Blues...

I've got the Dog Town blues and if I wasn't so down, I would write a song about them.

Samoa has elected himself Sheriff and is going to send me to jail. In Yuma - which I don't know WHERE that is, but from the movie it doesn't seem like a very good place. I'll bet they have no ponds at all.

On top of that, he claims he won a big national dog show. I don't believe it, but I guess it might be possible. He is taking over all the good stuff and probably won a prize like that too.

I did get to jump in the pond yesterday, that was nice. But after we got home Mama told me no more off leash walkies until I settle down a little. I have been wandering off again and got into the road. I don't come back and won't walk on leash.

I know these are bad things, but really. It is hard getting used to this bossy little dust mop. And he is getting big, did I tell you that? At this rate, he may end up bigger than me. BIGGER than ME!

I can't stand it. And it isn't like I don't like him, I sort of do. But he is number 2 dog, not number one dog.

I know. I will tell him I won the Super Bowl. That should fix him!

Your friend, Savannah!

Mardi Gras Time!

My good friend Demon Flash Bandit mentioned that I hadn't been doing a lot of travelling lately. Of course, it is difficult to get around with the perpetually carsick ball and chain. (I mean Samoa!) But Sam-O has been pesting me to take him and his girlfriend Angel (a very lovely dog, IF with bad taste in boyfriends!) on a trip to New Orleans for Mardi Gras.

Seems the little mongrel has been courting Angel and promising a trip. He told her they throw pig ears at you from the floats and give you jewelry and stuff. I am pretty sure that Angel is just humoring him, but I thought, why not? I can also ask Demon Flash Bandit, who is running for President and we can do some campaigning. I also invited my dear friend Sukie Lou in case she might hit it off with Demon - who as you can see is a VERY handsome dog. I am going to bring along MY boyfriend Kierke and his lovely sister Leda who are from Alaska! So it should be a lot of fun and romantic, too!

(I have to make another picture to fit in Kierke and Leda - Leda I have a GREAT mask for you!)

Now, as far as the political campaign. I know that "technically" the voting in the primaries has already taken place in Lousiana. Mama says they have a "Caucus" state, but I keep missing the word before state because just then Mama always coughs. Caucus, Caucus! However, Mama did say that Louisiana is pretty creative when it comes to voting so I say good for them! Surely, once they see and meet Demon Flash Bandit, they will throw out the old vote and vote for him instead.

Just look at him, standing in that fountain! He doesn't like water, but it was a good place to stand to make a speech. It is in the courtyard of Pat O'Brian's. Mama wanted to stop there to have a Hurricane with Demon and Angel's Mama. Demon isn't wearing a mask, because he wants all the voters to see him and hear him. What a pup! The rest of us ARE wearing masks because I remember what happened the last time Mama stopped here for a Hurricane. All together we can help her walk out, though.

Happy Mardi Gras! Vote for Demon Flash Bandit!

Your Friend, Savannah!

Mama's Funny Dream...

Mama had a dream about me last night and it got me lots of hugs today. Mama said she thought it was part about me running off last night and part about getting a new dog (Samoa) and some other stuff, all run together.

Anyway - Mama said in the dream we all lived on a ranch with lots of space. We would like that! I was there and Grandma and Samoa and Mama and Grandad, even - who I have never met! Anyway, Grandad drove Mama and me and Samoa to a place to pick up another dog - and we came back to the ranch with about a dozen more! Mama would like that too and so would I!

So we let them all out and Samoa and I were playing with them, running all over the place. After a while we started to get too far away so Mama was calling us back and Samoa came and the other dogs, but not me. Mama couldn't find me. Every once in a while she thought she would see me because I was lighter than the other dogs and she could see a flash of yellow. But then I would disappear again. Mama was worried because I run off sometimes, but never AWAY and she was scared for me.

The dream ended before I came back so when Mama got up this morning she gave me lots of hugs 'cos she "missed" me. And I got a bit of hamburger for breakfast and Samoa had to watch. Mama loves me best, I know it.

I'll be good on walkies tonight and not run off.

A Good Dog and not a lost one. Savannah!

My Holiday with Monkey Butt...