The Ramblings of Raffles

Second Birthday At The Bridge

Well my birthday was just as fabulous as last year. My main man Pongo outdid himeself again and I had the bestest time. My possee is the greatest. Callie and Ariana made me the biggest bone cake you ever saw with liver frosting. Yum, Yum! She gave it to me and then said I had to share. It's a good thing, because it was huge and I would have gotten a belly ache.

So things have settled down. Mom is feeling bad because she forgot my birthday. No worries Mom, I kind of forgot too.

Priscilla and Quigley - keep a close eye on Mommy on Tuesday, because that's the one year anniversary that Callie came to the bridge. Callie was Mommy's biggest love. They both adored each other. It will be a tough day for Mommy. She misses her something fierce.

Love you Mommy.

Raffles

Quigley, Quigley, Quigley

Quigley, do you have straw for brains? What were you thinking. You never, ever, ever chew on Mom's couch. What is going through that little brain of yours. Didn't you read the puppy manual - never bite soemthing bigger than you. Come on Dude let's have a little common sense. If an elephant walked into your back yard, would you bite his leg.

Mom better start feeding you fish because I'm very worried about your smarts.

Well enough said, remember buddy roe, I've got my eye on you!

Raffles

Happy Fourth of July Mommy

Wow, Callie and I have been so busy and having so much fun we haven't written since May. I'm sure Mommy understands, she has her hands full with Priscilla and Quigly and Miss Maleka and Chewtoy (el chubbo). Have you guys seen him lately - he has really porked up. And they thought I was fat. At least I had big bones.

Big doings tomorrow up here at the bridge. A parade and a barbecue and then everyone at our place. Callie and the girls are cooking up a storm. I sure enjoy my friends up here. I'd love to still be there with Mommy but if I can't be with her, I was darn lucky to hook up with these great pups.

Hope the fireworks are quiet - Maleka and Priscilla get really frightened.

See you in my dreams mommy.

Love ya - Raffles

P.S. In case you didn't know Mom - I'm as handsome as ever.

Quigley Graduated

My little brother Quigley graduated from Puppy Class. Atta boy dude. He was really impressive. He graduated top in his class. Does that count if he was theonly there that night? We won't tell anyone that. The little guys knows more commands than I ever did. And he can wiggle his nose just like Mom does. They were made for each other.

We've had a fabulous day up at the Bridge today. Big parade and barbeque. Callie and I hung around with the usual gang. We sure are lucky to have such wonderful pals. They always keep us busy, especially today when we start remembering all the memories we had with Mommy.

Callie and I will be sending you kisses tonight. Look for the brightest star, that will be us.

Love you Mommy - Raffles and Callie

I Feel For You Quigster

Poor little Quigley. He doesn't know it yet, but next Monday, he's not going to be a happy camper. Mom is taking him in to get him fixed and he's not even broken.

I've been there little guy. Be tough, in a few days, you'll be your old self. Mom hates to do it, but it's something that has to be done.

And remember Mom is going to be so sorry that she put you through this, you'll be able to really milk it and get lots of attention and treats.

Hang in there little dude. All us guys up here know what you're going to go through and we're in your corner.

Love ya little brother.

Raffles

P. S. Love you Mommy - Raffles and Callie

Where Has The Time gone

Oh Man, I've been so busy, I've been neglecting my diary again. Callie and I are having so much fun with our business "Flying Paws Dictation". We are busy all the time and we get to gab to everyone. And it's amazing how fruitful it has been. Not in money - this is a trade operation - we swap for services. The last few months have shown great results in the vacant area behind our business. Everyone has been swapping labor for dictation services. They have been working on the area making into a wonderful place to hangout. In January all the landscaping was finished and we've been creating a place to enjoy ourselves. Pongo and Stryker have created an amazing gazebo and the girls have been planting the most amazing flowers around it. The wildflowers are coming up all around the new walkway down to the beach.

We have an amazing outside theater area with seating areas. Pongo is in heaven. We will be having our first production in a few weeks.

Our shuffleboard courts will be finished this week along with the outdoor grills and picnic tables. We even have an obstacle course. I'm getting so toned. Look out ladies, I'm as handsome as ever.

It's just getting better and better.


Raffles

P.S. Callie and I love you bunches.

Quigley Might Not Get His Guy Card

Well Callie and I have been watching over the family every day. I worry about Quigley. The dude is 14 weeks old and he doesn't know how to lift his leg when he pees. I'm so embarassed for him. But in his defense, he's in a home full of girls. How can the little guy learn.

This morning I had hope. Callie was the first to check on them and she came running to tell me he lifted his leg. I was so proud I almost burst. Then she burst out laughing and rolling around on the ground and told me it was his front right leg he's lifted up. He pees forward and finally realized he was getting that leg wet so he lifts that one up out of the way.

I wish I could just fly down there and whisper in his ear - back leg dude - back leg.

I'm taking a lot of ribbing from my possee. Maybe if I send Quigley the message telepathically he will get it.

Oh the humiliation, he's done it 3 times now.

It's tough being the big brother way up here.

Raffles

2009 Isn't Living Up to Expectations

Well can you believe it's only 10 days into the new year and things aren't getting better. Rats! We were hoping 2009 would be better for Mom but it's not starting out well. Dad got laid off from the job he has had for 13 years. Half of the company was laid off. It's the economy. Companies are having tough times.

Then Grandpa N. had a heart attack - but the good news is that they put in a pacemaker and he's doing great. Mom says we'll have to take him to the casino because the pacemakers seem to make the slots work in your favor.

Grandma L. had eye surgery, and we're keeping our paws crossed that everything turns out all right.

That's the major news. Now Mom is saying she knows 2010 is going to be a good year. Gotta love Mom, she's very optimistic. We think she's on an endorphin high. Priscilla and Quigley have really been keeping her in good spirits. I don't envy Priscilla - that Quigly is like an energizer bunny. He just goes non stop. She's waiting until he bulks up a little then she'll put her paw down. It's so nice for her to have someone to play with, but she keeps asking Mom where the off button is on that little munchkin.

Oops gotta run Callie needs me. We're having a "Flying Paws" staff meeting and Adriana just came to tell me Callie said to get my butt in there.


Raffles

Quigley Is In The House

Mom brought home Quigley last week. What a sweetheart and a devil. Priscilla is going to have her hands full training him. Mom was so proud of her. She didn't growl at all when introduced. I think she realizes he's her little brother and she has to take care of him and show him the ropes. Just like Callie did for me. Callie and Mom did a wonderful job on me, that's why I'm the amazing guy I am.

We are so happy that Mom has two sweet little loves to keep her occupied. The family came over for Christmas and Callie and I were glued to the spot where we could watch over them. It was so much fun seeing the family meet the new arrivals.

This was Mom's first Christmas without Callie and me so it was a tough one, so we were glad she had her new furry faces to celebrate it with her.

I'm giving Callie grief about Mom choosing Bostons. I told her once you have a Boston you just can't do without one. Callie was hoping Mom would find another mixed breed, but it just didn't work out.

I see Priscilla is napping more than usual. Quiggy is tiring her out. They're both taking naps right now.

We had a wonderful Christmas up here with all our friends. Flying Paws was especially busy before and after Christmas to write in their diaries.

Callie tells me it's the end of 2008 this week. It's been a tough year for Mom so we hope 2009 will be way better.

Raffles

p.s. Love you Mommy

It's Almost Quigley Time!!!!!

Callie and I are so excited. If the weather cooperates, Mom is picking up the Quigley tomorrow. Priscilla will be so surprised. We can hardly wait to see how they get along.

Priscilla is now sleeping in Mom and Dad's bed at night. What's up with that. I never got to do that. It was because I snored. Dad couldn't sleep. Priscilla is a lady and never snores.

It's been a busy month. We helped Pongo with his welcome party for Sheba. What a sweet girl she is. We know her Mom misses her bunches. We're trying to help Sheba adjust. I got to help with the balloons for the party. Pongo probably won't let me do that again. I got a little goofy and inhaled the helium so I could do funny voices. It was a blast.

Oops gotta go - Callie needs me.

Love you Mommy - have a safe trip picking up Quigley.

Things Are Shaping Up

Wow, what a month we've had. Flying Paws is a great endeavor. No money is changing hands. Who has money up here? We just trade for things. Our steno pool helps pups with their diaries and in turn those pups barter with stuff or services. The biggest barter is labor. We are clearing off the land behind our cottages. It's really coming along. We couldn't believe it, but we will have a large portion of it done before Christmas. The guys have done a wonderful job clearing off the dead vegetation and now that it's all cleaned up we realize there is a huge fir tree in the middle of the clearing. No one realized it was there before with all the scrub around. It will be our Christmas tree. The girls are busy making popcorn and cranberry strings. It is going to be gorgeous and after Christmas the birds will have a treat.

There's talk of a Christmas Play in the new clearing. I wonder what that will be all about. I'll have to talk to Pongo. He knows everything and he's our head Thespian around here. The gals are busy with the business and in their spare time they're making Christmas goodies for the annual Christmas Eve banquet. It's going to be something.

On the home front. Priscilla is a little darling. She's been with Mom over a month now. She's brought the sparkle to Mom's eyes again. Callie and I miss Mom a lot but we know Mom needs that little bug and much as she needs her. What a lady. She's not the same cuddle bug that Callie was - there will probably not be another one like her. My sister Callie is one in a million. Mommy still tears up when she thinks of her. But Priscilla has her own charm and once she realizes she's going to be with Mommy forever she will get cuddlier.


Love you Mommy - Raffles and Callie

It's Been A busy Month

What a busy month. I can't believe I haven't written in my diary. I could have sworn I blabbed more recently since my last entry. This has been a great month. Mommy has a new love "Priscilla". She's been there almost a month now and is such a sweetheart. She still has to charm Chewtoy, but Mom adores her. Callie and I are glad. Mommy is happy again. She has someone to talk to.

Callie's birthday was this month. We threw a party for her and gave her the day off from "Flying Paws". I told her I'd take her place so she could have the day off. Boy did I work my butt off. I appreciate her even more knowing everything she does every day. We took her out to dinner and spent a wonderful evening with our friends. I think she enjoyed her first birthday at the Bridge.

Flying Paws was closed for Thanksgiving so we invited all of our friends over for dinner. The weather was perfect as always so we ate outside. It was kind of like the First Thankgiving where everyone brought something to the dinner. The pies were my favorite. Ariana and Callie came up with a savory pie, with turkey, cranberries, apples and spices. It was yummmmmmmmmmmmmmmmy. And there are leftovers - yay. Life is good.

Love you Mommy - Raffles and Callie

Priscilla Is In The House

The light is back in Mommy's eyes. Priscilla has joined the family. Maleka and Chewtoy are not thrilled, but it will just take some time to be a happy family. Chewie and Lika were just really enjoying all that Mommy time to themselves, so they are a little out of sorts that now they have to share her again.

Priscilla is a beautiful Boston Terrier. I told you guys, Mom was so smitten with me she'd probably find another Boston. Cylla is five years old. She was originally a Katrina rescue, then that family got divorced and she was living with her Dad and he had to move to a place that didn't allow dogs. So Mom found her with our friend Jamie's help and she's now a member of our family.

So Callie and I are happy that Mom has someone who needs her again. She's a darling girl. We're very happy.

Raffles

Parties Are My Life

Well my friends, I might just have to add a sideline to my business "party planning". It was Pongo's birthday yesterday and I organized a surprise party for him. It was an awesome all day party. Pongo was so surprised that we remembered his special day. He was sad because he knew that his Mommy would be missing him something fierce on his birthday. So he was just sitting on his favorite sunny rock and remembering all those happy memories. Before he knew it all his pals were there and yelled Happy Birthday, and Beezer slapped a goofy hat on Pongo and we carted him off to the beach and had a rousing game of volleyball. We went swimming and stayed on the beach all day had a fabulous lunch made by the ladies and then went exploring in the woods, got cleaned up and then went to "Leggs" for supper. The lovely Frenchies at Leggs lavished their attention on the birthday boy. He got so many kisses. I tried to horn in on that too, but remembered it was Pongo's day so I backed off. After a wonderful supper and lots of liquid refreshments we all went to a karoake bar. Pongo, Styrker and Beezer did a hilarious rendition of "Oh Lord It's Hard To Be Humble" and then the whole gang got up there and sang and danced to "It's Raining Men" - we were feeling no pain. After that we all went back to our house and Pongo opened gag gifts and we all sat around the bonfire and roasted marshmallows and then stayed busy cleaning our faces. It was a fabulous day. I think the big guy enjoyed it and that made me very happy.

Raffles "Mr. Party Planner"

Surprise Party For Pongo

My bestest buddy Pongo is having a birthday on Saturday. We are going to have a big bash. It's going to be a surprise so don't spill the bones to Pongo. We will all meet at Flying Paws dictation and leave for the festivities. Of course "Leggs" will be our first stop. Pongo loves that place. I'm really going to have to do some planning to outdo the birthday celebration Pongo had for me.

Any ideas - I'm all ears.

Raffles

P.S. Things are brewing at home - I may be getting a new brother and a new sister soon. I'll keep you posted.

Irresistible

Callie and I are so excited. Mom is looking into Boston puppies. I am so proud. I made such an impact on Mom's life that she wants to have another Boston in her life (maybe two). Of course when they made me they broke the mold (okay Callie I heard that), but us Boston's are interesting characters and Mom needs that in her life again. Some puppies she saw were born on my Grandpa's birthday. Maybe that's a sign. We'll have to wait and see what happens.

Come on Callie, grab Ariana, we have to go check on our Mommies. Ariana is a fast learner. She already sent her Mommy a message.

Raffles

My Map Is Back

Yay, Skoshi fixed my map. Now I can see all my friends again.

I'll be over to fix your porch rail tomorrow. That was a good barter.

Raffles

Bowling Ball Edging????????????????

It was a wonderful week. Our business "Flying Paws Dictation" officially opened on Monday. We were busy with appointments all week and we have one typist there just for walk-ins. After the appointments on Monday the pups that are bartering their dictation for labor services discussed clearing the area adjacent to our cottage and garden. It's a very old wooded area that has dead trees and brush, and a lot of weeds. We have been given permission to use this property if we clean it up and maintain it. We will be able to extend our garden, put it a croquet area, a gazebo, a fire pit, the mind boggles at all the ideas floating around. It will be great for our weekly get togethers and Pongo has this wild idea for a hammock area. That guy loves his naps.

By Wednesday some of the guys already started working on clearing the area. It will take some time, because you only have to put in a hour of labor after your dictation. But I've found that the guys stick around longer than that because they're excited about getting this done. Even I'm working my butt off. Okay Callie I heard that. She said if I turn around it's still there. My sister is such a cut up.

Callie, Ariana and Skoshi are keeping everything running smoothly. The girls have come up with some very inventive bartering contracts. Some of the girl pups are wonderful bakers and they bartered to bake fresh biscuits. Callie has found someone for each day of the week. Tomorrow Lucy is bringing zuchinni peanut butter biscuits, which just happen to be my favorite. We never know what they'll come up with. Our most unusual trade this week was for old bowling balls - balls with wild swirling colors. Callie grabbed those right away for garden edging. She's going to have them put in with the holes up so they can plant flowers in the holes. My sister is very clever. So remember your trash might be someone elses treasure.

Well my hour is up, I have to give up my seat for someone else and put in my hour of work. Callie says if I'm going to take up valuable dictation time, I have to work too. Looks like I'll be moving some of those bowling balls for her, then I'll need a nap - hey Stryker, want to go bowling?

Raffles

I'm A Genius

Oh boy, the grand opening of "Flying Paws Dictation" was amazing. We had such a big crowd. The place was packed. Everyone wants to sign up for diary dictation. They said I was a genius to come up with this idea. I have to agree with them. Uh oh, Callie's giving me that look that says be a little more humble.

Everyone stuffed their bellies at the picnic and we even had a huge cake with flying paws on it. Princess A and the lovely Lucyce made it. It was truly yummy. It's amazing how we can eat anything we want up here and our tummies are fine.

So after the tour of the facilities and the picnic, the dancing began.

I just wanted to say thank you to everyone that made this business venture a reality.

The construction crew: Pongo, Stryker, Tee Cee, Beezer, Vlad, Oreo, Jake, Zak, Storm.

The organizers: Callie, Princess Ariana, Skoshi, Lucyce, Gloria and Peggy Sue, Gretta, Kiska, Kia, KD Rain.

Hope I didn't forget anyone. Callie will have my head. Everyone who worked on this project will get a free month of dictation.

We met so many new friends, and old friends came as well and I won't be able to remember everyone but these are the ones who stayed until the end and danced up a storm:

Jake - a very handsome Great Dane from Ohio
Giselle - a lovely lab - I'm afraid I stepped on her toes a lot
Joker - he had the most beautiful green wings
Winnie - she made my heart pitter patter - a beautiful Old English
Sheepdog from Minnesota
The family of Grizzly, Sammy, Kodiak with their beautiful sister
Bernadette
Mack and Luke - two crazy Bostons from Oregon
Zak from California
Sam Wheat
Ziggy - a Poodle from Washington
Greta
Sparky
Victoria Louise and Molly from Canada - Victoria has the most
gorgeous smile
Hayley

So many pups. It was a wonderful day. After the clean up we all went to lLookout Point to look down on our families. Callie sent Mommy a sign and Mommy found it this morning. A beautiful yellow flower in her Hosta garden that wasn't there yesterday. Mommy was so happy. She now knows that Callie is okay.

Thank you my friends. Now it's off to la la land, because our first official day at Flying Paws starts tomorrow and we want to be at our best.

Thank you my friends.

Raffles

Grand Opening of "Flying Paws Dictation"

SPECIAL INVITATION
TO ANYONE RESIDING
AT RAINBOW BRIDGE


Tomorrow is the grand opening of

FLYING PAWS DICTATION

We are all so excited to make this dream a reality. No more excuses for you not writing in your Dogster diaries. We now have a steno pool that will help you in keeping your diaries up to date.

It won't cost you a paw or a leg. We operate on a barter system. You let us know what you would like to trade or service you can perform and we have the staff that will help you post entries in your diaries. It's that easy.

Please come by tomorrow, tour the facilities, meet our staff and come to a good old fashioned picnic in the back yard at 1:00.

We have signs posted everywhere so you can't miss us. Listen for the fiddle music and bring your dancing shoes.

No need for rsvp's we have tons of food. Can't wait to see everyone.

Come on Callie, we'll need to get a good nights sleep for tomorrow's festivities.

P. S. Love you Mommy - Raffles and Callie

Busy Days - Saturday is just 2 days away

OMD - Saturday is only 2 days away. I want to thank Izzy and her Mom, they came up with some great names for the steno business. Unfortunately the gang pointed out to me that because I was an equal employment opportunity and had "CATS" as typists, I couldn't use anything with just dogs. But the suggestions inspired me and I came up with a great name. Thanks Izzy. Nope can't tell you yet. You'll have to wait for the unveiling on Saturday. Gotta run. I hope we can get the sign done in time. So many things to do.

The girls are baking bones shaped like diaries. Pongo is working on lighting. We want to get one of those big lights that shine in the sky to guide everyone to our spot.

Love You Mommy - Raffles and Callie

Equal Opportunity Employer

Okay, it's 4 days before the grand opening of our steno pool and we don't have a name yet. I am going crazy. I need to get the sign going soon. Any ideas out there?

My best buddy Pongo has been working his butt off helping. We might have to make him a partner, if he can tear himself away from the theater. You know what a ham he is. But he has been amazing. Who knew he could swing a hammer like that.

Callie and the girls are working out in the garden today - getting out of the way of the workers putting in those final touches. The garden is gorgeous. Callie had talked Pongo into making window boxes and they are painting them as we speak.

Some of the guys have come by wanting to work in the steno pool. They said I should be an equal opportunity employer. Now are they for real or do they just want to be by the ladies. That will take some pondering. I think they're joshing me.

Okay - a million more things to do. Later.

Raffles

I Am The Envy of My Friends

A guys dream. I'm living with two beautiful ladies. Okay, one is my sister and the other one is our bestest friend. But it still looks good in print. Princess Ariana is now living with Callie and me in our house. Callie and Ariana have taken the larger room - any gentleman would do the same. Of course they had to redecorate and yours truly had to move the furniture around - my aching back. As long as the girls are happy I will move mountains. It really is cosy. Once in awhile they let me come in as long as I don't fall asleep and snore. They have the most comfiest couch. These two gals deserve the best. They are still missing their Mommy's and I'm here to keep them happy.

The grand opening of our steno pool is Saturday. We are so excited. The possee has been hard at work getting the garden shed converted into a great office. Callie and Skoshi have interviewed and hired the staff. Ariana is one of our typists and you won't believe this - we have CATS in the steno pool. These are very mellow cats and they don't spook easy, and they don't take any guff. Skoshi lined these gals up. They are super fast on the keyboards. They have an extra toe so they're just whirlwinds. We're still working on developing the bark recognition software, but it might be another month or so. The building is almost ready, the staff is lined up, Callie is handling promotion and we have 20 clients already. The gals will be busy. We even put in a snack center and Pongo and Sam are building a porch onto the shed. It is amazing. I'm making the sign, but I still haven't come up with a name. Any suggestions guys? The steno pool will be mainly for typing diary entries but we will do other business as well. I'd love to have a copier but Callie is afraid us guys will be weird and take photos of our butts. Where does she get these ideas. Someone must have blabbed on me. We'll have to work on her. We always need flyers made and invitations. This might get huge. Callie says lets start out with diary entries and see where it goes.

This is going to be an intense week. I can't wait until this weekend.

Raffles

P.S. Love you Mommy - Raffles and Callie

Princess Ariana is in the Room

What a great day we had yesterday. The most beautiful pugster you will ever meet "Princess Ariana" swooped in on us yesterday. Callie and I sent her a pair of programmed wings and she was able come right to our location. She and her family have always been corresponding but we have never met. What a cutie she is. The guys were all crowding in trying to make introductions, but Callie took charge and said to give Ariana some breathing room, which she appreciated. My pals are great but can be overwhelming all at once. So once she was properly introuduced to everyone one at a time, we all went strolling on the beach and got in a game of beach ball and went looking for shells. Then we headed off to eat a picnic supper, roast marshmallows and sit by the bonfire and watch the sun go down. What a glorious day.

Ariana sat with Skoshi for awhile and they discussed her joining the steno pool. Skoshi thinks she will be a great addition. We have a good lead on the bark recognition software so I think my business venture will be off the ground shortly.

We showed Ariana how to reset her wings to get home and told her to think over our offer and get back to us. She's such a sweet girl I know she has already met a lot of friends and there are probably a lot of offers on the table. We'll just wait and see. Now that she knows how to find us we're just a swoosh away.

Uh oh, gotta run they have a croquet game all set up. I love croquet.

Hang on Callie, I'm coming.

Bark Recognition Software

I reconnected with the dog I met the other night at the bone bar. Thank goodness Callie has a good memory for names. His name is Barclay and his Dad was a computer nerd big time. So he told me all about speech recognition software. You just talk and the software converts your voice and words magically appear. Isn't that amazing. So now I have to find out if they've converted that to dog language.

It's probably called "Bark Recognition Software". Has anyone heard of this? I need to get a copy of this and my steno pool idea will be off the ground.

I've got my team on it. We will keep you posted.

We just got word that 59 dogs that were in the hurricane down in Texas have been flown to the Animal Humane Society in Minneapolis and will be looking for new furever homes. Maybe Mommy can find a new best friend there. It will take until mid month to get them all evaluated and processed. Those poor pups, it must have been so scary for them. Callie and I were always afraid to go in the water past our ankles, I can't imagine being in a hurricane, and separated from their loved ones. Too scary. We are saying special prayers for them to find the best homes.

Come on Callie, it's time to go to our special spot and blow kisses to Mommy.

Love you Mommy - Raffles and Callie

My Steno Pool Plan is Moving Forward

So I've been working on my steno pool plan. I was telling the guys at the bone bar about it last night and one of the guys told me that his Dad is a computer nerd. He said his Dad had this software for his computer that would allow him to talk to the computer and it would type from his voice. How cool is that. That would be great for the steno pool. Having no thumbs, it gets tricky hitting all those keys. This would be amazing if they could just bark into the microphone and have that translated. He said this software is available in different languages. My question is do they have it in dog speak? I am so excited.

After celebrating last night I may have over indulged and I hope I remember who I was talking to last night. Hopefully Callie was paying attention and not off dancing with some young pup. She's in back sleeping among the flowers with Tee Cee. She looks so darn cute I'll have to wait till she wakes up.

Raffles

Great Ideas Pop Up From Frustration

So I finally found my long awaited secretary, the beautiful Skoshi and my possee had kidnapped her. Well kidnapped might not be the correct word, but guys she's my assistant. I haven't been able to get any new diary entries posted for weeks. You do one friend a favor and another friend hears about it and on it goes. I have to stop being such a nice guy. So guys Skoshi is back with me and Callie. We have so much to post in our diaries. We need her.

Everyone is looking for a typist. This gives me a great idea. We could turn that empty shed in the back into a steno pool. Oh this is great. This will give Callie something to organize. I don't trust the guys. With everyone wanting help to post in their diaries, we could have a nice little business going. Callie let's go talk to Skoshi right now. I bet she knows lots of talented typists. Gosh Callie what should we call it. Hmmm. How about C & R Stenos or Diairies R Us. I can see this is going to take some noodling. Well my friends. As you can see when you get a great idea you have to run with it. We've got to go make plans. Callie, hang on I'm coming.

Good night Mommy - We love you. Raffles and Callie

We Won, We Won

Wow,

I haven't written in ages. It's so hard to get good secretarial help. But now I have a new assistant. the beautiful Skoshi. She's a gorgeous Boston with nimble fingers and has consented to be my secretary. I think she felt sorry for me, having all these stories for my diary and not able to type myself. and I think she has a crush on Pongo and likes to be near him.

So anyway, Labor Day was a blast. Pongo and I rode on the Legs float with the ladies but unfortunately I could not find a partner on the float for the 5 legged race, all the ladies were spoken for. They are all so gorgeous. So Pongo and I scoured the crowd from our perch on the float. I found my perfect match, the beautiful Torre, hailing from Colorado. This lovely brown Boston lass has some beautiful gams. She consented to be my partner and we stratagized, practiced a bit, and she came up with a chant that kept us focused and WE WON! It was so cool. We breezed by everyone. So we won a weeks worth of steaks. Rather than split them up we threw them into our larder. Everything we win goes into the larder for our posse and at the end of the week we invite everyone and have a feast. Pongo won a boatload of bones for his skill dancing the tango with the lovely Weezer from California. What a figure they made out on the dance floor. Callie won first prize for sweetest face and Tee Cee for tall, dark and handsome. We love when the prizes are food. Boy oh boy what a party we will have next weekend. Plus we met all kinds of new friends.

Well it's time to go find my sister Callie and go check in on Mommy before we head off to bed.

Raffles

Happy Labor Day

This is Callie's first holiday at the bridge. She is in for a treat. We have so much fun on the holidays and the barbecue later is going to be amazing. We all decided to dress up for the occasion. Pongo is wearing a snappy bow tie which makes him look very dashing. Callie and I have decided to wear matching scarfs with "We Love Our Mommy" imprinted on them. Beezer and Stryker are going to surprise us. Tee Cee says no way is he dressing up. We'll have to see what everyone else is up to.

Tee Cee and Callie have become fast friends. Tee Cee came to the bridge shortly before Callie did. They both are still missing their Mommy's very much so they are sharing a special bond. That's a load off my mind. I don't have to keep such an eagle eye on Callie today knowing that she's with Tee Cee.

So Pongo, let's scope out the ladies. There is so much going on today, I just don't know what we should do first. I'm looking for just the right lady to participate in the 5 legged race. I need someone my own height and craziness. I'm thinking Boston or Frenchy. Someone who won't be intimidated by my handsomeness, because lady we have a race to win. The winner gets a weeks supply of steaks. I can taste them now. The guys and I have made a pact. Anything we win today that is food related goes into our joint larder and we party together. We are skipping the egg toss, those things are slippery, but we will be there later today for the balloon toss, because that's a great way to cool off.

Oh my gosh, that Pongo and Stryker have done it again. We have been invited to ride on the "Legs" float. Legs is where Pongo took me for my birthday. Those Frenchy waitress girls have a float in the parade and have invited us to ride with them. This will be a wonderful opportunity to find my 5 legged race partner. If none of the gals want to participate I'm sure sometime during the ride while we scan the crowd we can find willing partners.

Tee Cee and Callie are finding quieter pursuits so I can go with the gang and get wild. Callie see you at the barbecue later. I know you're in good hands. Come on guys, let's go find that float.

My Friends Are The Best

I don't know how I got so lucky to hook up with such good friends. My bestest friend Pongo and his family touched my Mommy's heart today. She is crying happy tears with their amazing act of kindness. Thank you Pongo buddy. You are the best.

Callie and I are blowing puppy kisses to Pongo's family.

Raffles

It's Exhausting Being The Big Brother

What a week I've had. Monday, my big sister Callie joined me at the Bridge. I organized a party for her and introduced her to all my friends. It was an exhausting couple of days. She is starting to get in the swing of things now. Even though she's older than me and bigger than me I still feel that I have to be her big brother and watch over her. She has been making friends very quickly. She's always been a sweet girl so that is no surprise. But I need to keep an eye on her as the guy pups up here are starting to hang around and that makes me a tad nervous. What happened to my carefree days when I was one of those guy pups hanging around. Things have a little bit different slant when my sister is concerned. My gang is great, I don't have to worry about them. It's the ones I don't know that I'm leary about. But no worries, she sticks to me like glue like she did to Mommy so I have her in my sights.

She is having the best time. Pongo has showed her how to cloud surf and she's really taken to it. I still can't get the hang of it, no tail, no ballast. I wonder if I could get a tail extension up here. One of the guys is taking her to the pool and teaching her to dive. My pals are the best. The greatest time of the day is when we're both all tuckered out and we hunker down for the night, side by side and look down and check in on Mommy. She's putting up a brave front. With only Maleka and Chewtoy it's not the same. Maleka is a solitary girl and not a cuddler like we were and likes to stay outside most of the time. Chewtoy is a cat - enough said - but he has been trying. He sat in Mommy's lap the other day when she was watching TV. He has never ever done that before. She was so surprised.

Mommy is keeping busy selling things on Ebay and Craigs list to pay for vet bills. Mommy has a bunch of "treasures" she's accumlated over the years and says this is a good time to downsize. One of her auctions is doing better than she expected so she's happy.

Well I better take off, Miss Callie wants to get her feet wet and run on the beach. Later my friends.

Love you Mommy - Raffles and Callie

She's Here - She's Here

My new best friend "Beezer" went to St. Francis and he pushed up Callie's processing time (thank you Beezer - I just couldn't wait any longer). We are waiting outside the reception garden. Beezer and Pongo, Stryker and Tee Cee and well practically everyone is here with me. We have a great party planned to welcome her.

Oh my gosh there she is. She's here, she's finally here. I hope I don't faint or fart, I am that excited. She doesn't see me yet. Callie, Callie, it's me Raffles. She looks just like I remember her. She looks a little scared, she is a shy girl. Oh look, she sees me. She is running this way. Callie I have missed you so much. I need a big hug and lots of sisterly kisses. Oh yay she still has Mommy smells on her. She still is sad as she misses Mommy, but Beezer and I are going to show her later how we can go and see Mommy from here. She's such a sweet girl I know she will make a lot of friends here. And guys, remember my sister is a lady and everyone had better treat her like one or you know who you'll have to answer to. Now that I have the big brother speech out of my system. Everybody let's go party. I am so happy.

Raffles

I Was Praying For A Miracle

Very sad news. My sister Callie is at the Rainbow Bridge. Mommy and the doctors tried so hard to make her better. We were praying for a miracle. It didn't happen. The doctor gave Mommy medicine to take home this weekend and she really thought there would be good results. She did not get any better. Mommy took her back to the hospital this morning and booked her passage on the train to the Rainbow Bridge. Callie, always a lady went out without a whimper, very peaceful. Mommy is beside herself wondering what she could have done differently. The doctor said Mommy did everything she could. It happened so fast. Three weeks ago she was fine and then she started coughing and sliming. It was off and on and then they did tests and xrays and different medicines and finally she wasn't able to get anything down her esophagus and they had to put a feeding tube in then her limbs stopped working. Mommy was practically glued to Callie all weekend giving her meds, water and food and lots of cuddles. They had time to say goodbye, but it is still devestating to Mommy. They were together over 13 years. They had a very special bond.

I am so excited to see Callie again and introduce her to all my pals. She was like a Mom to me always taking care of me and keeping Maleka away from me. I wonder what's taking so long. Pongo says remember when I went through orientation. It took forever. Well that gives us time to throw a huge welcome party for her.

Mommy you can count on me to take care of Callie, it will be like old times. I suppose she will try to keep me out of trouble again. Uh oh gotta go - a party to plan.

Be strong Mommy - we love you.

My Sister Callie is Very Sick

It's a very bad day. My big sister Callie who is the apple of Mom's eye and my favorite sister is very, very sick. Mom was able to take her home last night, but the doctors say if this medicine they're giving her doesn't help over the weekend things don't look good. See Callie's diary for all the medical stuff, I can't spell those big words. The gist of it is that she can't get anything down her throat and her muscles and nerves aren't talking anymore and she can't even stand. She's very, very weak. Mommy is so happy that they showed her how to administer medicine and food in the feeding tube attached to her tummy so she could take her home and care for her this weekend. The doctors are super nice at the University of MN Vet Clinic and have been taking excellent care of her. The test results will be in Monday or Tuesday, but they're pretty sure they know what it is.

Please say a prayer for Callie and Mommy. As much as I'd love to see my sister again, Mommy will be devastated to lose her. I went to the bridge only 3 months ago and it's not fair that Mommy should lose both of us so close together.

Thank you my friends.

Raffles

I Had The Bestest Time

All I can say is that Pongo is the best buddy in the whole world. With only a few hours notice, my main man whipped together an amazing evening for my birthday celebration. It started out at my favorite place, the Bone Bar. There were free drinks, party hats, lovely ladies lot of kisses, what more could the Birthday Boy ask for?

After the Bone Bar, we all headed out to "Legs" which Pongo says is the doggy equivalent of "Hooters" but focusing on legs. And the waitresses were very shapely French Bulldogs. He knows how I adore the Frenchies. The food was amazing although I think I did more smooching (birthday boy kisses) than eating.

It was an amazing night. Just when I thought the night couldn't get any better, Pongo got us in a congo line and we danced over to the comedy club to see Remy and Harvey Wallbanger doing a 2 dog show. They invited me up on stage and being the ham that I am I jumped at the chance. I probably made a spectacle out of myself, but all I remember was the laughing and crowd going wild and ladies throwing themselves at me. It was wonderful.

Everyone was buying me drinks, so I had to be a good sport and drink them all, so I don't remember everything. Thank you everyone who sent be well wishes and party hats and those who joined me for the evening. My great friend newly to the bridge Tee Cee was there. He is such a sweetheart, I had to remember not to stand to close to him because he is such a handsome and imposing figure some of the ladies were paying more attention to him than me. Stryker and his good friend Beezer with the amazing ears (the ladies loved him). Also Oreo and his gang were there and the lovely Lucyce and KD Rain, Kisa, Banjo and Greta. And of course the magnificent Pongo in his handsome tuxedo was always there within earshot making sure my night was memorable. Thank you so much my friends. I will always remember my first birthday at the bridge.

Raffles

Tomorrow is my Birthday

Hey you guys,

I just remembered that my birthday is tomorrow. This will be my eleventh birthday. Even though I'm at the bridge, I bet I can still celebrate my birthday. I wonder if my friends know Probably not, seeing I didn't even remember until someone asked my Mommy today when my birthday is.

I might just have to drop a hint or two. I haven't been to a birthday party up here yet, but I can guarantee they are special. I wonder if it's a tradition that the girl pups have to give birthday kisses to the birthday boy. If it's not a tradition we'll have to start one.

Well this changes all my plans for today. I will have to rest up, and get a good night's sleep. No late night for me tonight. I have to look my most handsomemest for all those ladies that want to plant a little birthday smooch on my kisser.

Ah the dreams I will have tonight. I can't wait for tomorrow.

Love you Mommy - Raffles

My Hero is at the Bridge

Our hearts are all saddened with the passing of a great pal. Tee Cee. A most courageous guy. He went through a lot in his life and always with a great deal of class. He came to the bridge a few days ago and I am anxiously awaiting for him to go through processing and finally meet him. My Mommy always said he had the most gorgeous of faces (excepting mine of course). I can't wait for Pongo to meet him. We'll show him the ropes and make him one of our possee.

Please say a prayer for his family. As all of us up here know, it's harder on the ones we leave behind. Tee Cee has a wonderful Mommy and it will be a tough time for her. We are blowing her puppy kisses to make her feel better.


Raffles

P.S. I miss you Mommy - Love Raffles

I'm Worried

I'm having so much fun here up at the bridge, there's always so much to do, but I still keep an eye on the family.

My big sister Callie is having vomiting slime issues. Mommy is taking her to the doctor tomorrow. I'm keeping all my paws crossed that she will be okay.

Maleka (aka the horse) is as stinky as ever. She sleeps in dirt piles to stay cool. She won't let Mom take her to get groomed. She's shedding and hates to be brushed. I have a feeling Mom is going to give her a bath this weekend. Don't warn her. This I will have to have a front row seat for and with popcorn. It will be a sight as always.

Love ya - Raffles

Gloria Has Arrived

Well guys, I'm smitten again. Gloria has just arrived at the bridge. She is a gorgeous German Shepherd/Greyhound mix. What a sweetheart she is. Everyone is smitten with her including yours truly. Her sister Peggy Sue was at the gate to meet her and show her around. Gloria is a dear friend of Miss Ellie Mae and Ellie asked me to keep an eye on her. It will be an extreme pleasure to keep tabs on both of these lovely ladies. They melt hearts where ever they go. They graciously accepted an invitation to go to lunch at the bone bar with me and my friends today. What a fun afternoon that was. Miss Gloria has the greatest smile. She lights up the whole room. Now she's off to orientation - learning basic stuff like, how to walk on clouds, where to get your chow, where to sleep at night, etc. Peggy Sue has been here a few months, so she has an excellent anagel to guide her. My day just got brighter after meeting those two ladies.

Uh oh, I see my sister Callie is not feeling too well tonight. I hope it's just an upset tummy. I better go watch over her. Mommy is worried.

Raffles

Lovely Lucye

We have a new edition up here at the bridge. Lovely Lucye. She's a gorgeous Bearded Collie who just made the journey the beginning of the month. I promised her Mom we would watch over her, so please welcome her. Like all of our Mom's when we left Lucye's Mom is devastated. Please keep her in your prayers.

So let's get the gang together tomorrow and take Lucyce down to the meadow and to the bone bar.

Raffles

Memories

I was watching the family today. You can see everything from the Bridge. Mommy took out the tent today and set it up in the back yard. Mom and Dad never camp anymore so she decided to find it a new home. Boy did that bring back memories. Mom and Dad have a piece of lake property in Wisconsin. No structure on it , just land, so sometimes we used to take the tent up there and stay overnight. Just me and Callie and Mom and Dad. It was pretty scary at first. There were a lot of strange noises at night - owls and wild turkeys and deer running by. We both slept with Mommy in her sleeping bag. During the day we would roam the woods. Dad would call me his trail blazer. Those were the days. We'd venture into the water and one time I went swimming. I could see that Callie remembered too, because she was really checking out the smells on the tent. Those were the days. Uh oh, gotta go before I lose my macho image and tear up.

Love you Mom. - Raffles

The Fourth of July was a Blast

Well the 4th of July was a blast. It has taken me this much time to recover. We had a great day. Pongo and I called in a few favors and got to be judges for the French Bulldog beauty contest. What a better way to spend the day than with those cute ladies. We had such a great time. Pongo and I were so smitten, we decided they were all winners. We took the ladies out to the bone bar and then to see the fireworks and had a wonderful evening. I know I will forget someone, but these are the ladies who made a lasting impression on me.

Hailey from Denmark
Daisey from SC
Nikita
Tora
Madison from New York
Mimi
and I can't forget Reagan from Washingon (boy was she a big flirt - I loved it)

We loved spending time with them. We also met a sweetheart named Bitsy, she's not a French Bulldog. I think she's two kinds of spaniel Cocker and Cavalier King Charles from Illinois. She's a lovely girl but with a strange fondness for broccoli.

What a wonderful day. Time for a big nap now.

Love ya - Raffles

Cloud Surfer

Thank you Miss Ellie for my beanie with the propeller. This will work great when I'm cloud surfing. I'm just learning and sometimes I fall flat on my face. I bet with my propeller beanie I will just hover and pop right up and not get a mark on my handsome face. Miss Ellie is a gorgeous Boston who is one of the sweetest ladies I know. I'm totally smitten.

The Fourth of July is approaching fast. The fireworks up here are different, no loud scary noises, just an array of beautiful lights. It will be a memorable event.

I see Callie has a bad ear, but Mom's home now and it's getting better.

Oops gotta go. I smell something good. This is great to eat everything I want and never gain an ounce.

Love ya - Raffles

Time Flies When You're Having Fun

The Fourth of July will be a blast up here at the bridge. My wingman Pongo and I called in a couple of favors and got on the judges panel for the Fourth of July French Bulldog Beauty Contest. We are really looking forward to that event. So ladies if you're listening, and entering the contest, WE CAN BE BRIBED. Pongo and I will be hanging out at Cloud 12, the evening before, so please stop by and let's get aquainted.

Uh oh gotta run, I have to go check in and see how Mom and Callie are faring. Mom was at Grandmas for 4 days helping her move and Callie was so upset. She got an ear infection and silly Daddy didn't know how to make it better. Callie's doing better now that Mom is home.

Love ya,

Raffles

I Am One of a Kind - not to be replaced

I was watching over the family tonight and was excited to see that Mom and Dad took the girls (Callie and Maleka) for a walk. They were so excited. Dad usually doesn't go but he just came back from the bar and was in a good mood. Poor Daddy - Callie pooped and he couldn't get the bag open. It was comical.

You won't believe what Dad said to Mom - He said they should get another dog!!!! Mom just looked at him. I've only been gone about a month, how could he want to replace me already. I'm one of a kind - irreplacable. Mom said the girls wouldn't like that. Mom will eventually take Grandma's cats and they don't like dogs - so no new puppies for awhile. Daddy is sad that I'm gone and gets teary eyed sometimes. He misses me. I have that effect on people. Dad says he misses my handsome face, but not my gassy butt. Mom always told him, it was a package deal.

Gotta run - barn dance tonight. I've got my best scarf on.

Love ya - Raffles

We Had a Blast

Well Memorial Day has come and gone. What a day we had. The barbeque was everything I had hoped it to be. We're still burying bones. The parade was awesome. After the breed parade we went off in groups to watch the fireworks. You know you're going to be a big hit with the ladies when your wingman wears a tuxedo. Pongster and I were quite the debonair pair. (I told Pongo it was a much better look than that embarassing bee costume he sported on Halloween - he will never live that down - at least not while I'm around to remind him). Thank goodness Mom destroyed all my incriminating photos.

Well we hooked up with some amazing cuties and found a quiet spot to enjoy the evening. I had the bestest time.

Pongo took me cloud surfing today. He's a master at it. It's tricky, I'm still getting the hang of it. Pongo said if I had a bigger nose it would help me balance better. Then I had to tell him all about the time Mom got me a nose job.

Well gotta run, rehearsals are in an hour.

Love ya Mom - Raffles

Memories

It's Memorial Day and everyone up here at the bridge is talking about all their wonderful memories of their families. It's a happy day because we were all so loved. We remember how you always took such good care of us, how you made us laugh with your silly antics, took us everywhere, loved us deeply and knew when our bodies gave out it was time for us to make the journey to the bridge and as much as it broke your hearts you did the right thing and let us go where we would feel no pain and would wait until it was your time and we would reunite. You made us part of the family, not just a pet, but part of your heart, you gave us the world. We will always love you and cherish our memories of all the amazing time we had together with our loving families. Please be happy because that's what you gave to us.

We are having a humongous barbecue this afternoon - the food will be wonderful . I'm still kind of new up here so I don't know who does all that for us, but they do an amazing job. There is going to be a breed parade. It will last all day. I can't wait for it to get started. I'm going to try and get next to all the cute Boston ladies. I hope the Frenchies and Bulldogs are next to us too. I love all the ladies, but I have a special fondness for those like me with the beautiful pushed in faces. Later there will be games and an ice cream social and after that we will all sit together and watch the sun go down and remember our loved ones. There won't be a dry eye in the gathering.

I see Grandma and Grandpa Nelson stayed with my family for a few days and just left yesterday. Maleka, Callie and Chewtoy are exhausted. They will sleep all day. Dad finished my oak box for my ashes. It it beautiful. Mom put it on the kitchen shelf where the sunbeams can shine on it.

Well that's all the news for now. Time to find Pongo and the gang and head over to the festivities. There's always something going on up here. It's great.

Love ya bunches - Raffles

Maleka Did Good

My sister Maleka was made Dogster "Diary of the Day" today for her rendition of the "night with the opposum". I'll leave it up to you my friends to figure out who is telling the real story. But I'm busting at the seams that she was honored. I'd like to think it's due to my influence - I've tried to coach her on the gift of gab.

So many of my friends, and also pups I've never even met have been saying such nice things about me. I'm truly touched. It means a great deal to Mom. Please look me up when you someday come to the bridge. I'll take you to lunch at the bone bar.

Always watching over you guys.

Angel Raffles

Maleka Didn't Have a Clue

Mom went to see Lisa Williams last night (she's a clarivoyant), hoping to connect with my Grandpa or me. Lisa did connect a lot of people (and one dog), she is amazing. Unfortunately the line of loved ones that wanted to talk to people in the audience was so long that Grandpa and I were not able to connect with her. But I think I did get a message to Mom after all. After I got to the bridge, my pal Pongo realized my potential for being a big ham and got me involved in the theater club up here. I am directing a production called - "Chorus Line". Well this part you won't believe. At intermission last night Mom was walking down the hall and saw a poster of "Chorus Line". What do you guys think about that? Thanks Pongo you are the best.

Mom went to the theater alone last night so she had a cab drop her off in the alley. She came through the back gate and went over to Maleka's kennel to say goodnight to her. (Maleka sleeps outside because all her big hair makes her warm in the house. Mom keeps her kennel unlocked so she can roam around at night if she wants to. The gates to the back yard are locked so she's totally safe.) Mom looked in her kennel and saw a critter in there. It was a opposum. It was walking around back by Maleka's blankets where she sleeps. Mom quickly scanned the back yard and didn't see Maleka anywhere. She went to the outside of the kennel to see if she was in there and sure enough there she was sound asleep less than a foot from the opposum. She didn't know what to do but had to get that critter out of there before they tangled. She started into the kennel, I'm not sure what she was going to do, but just then Maleka woke up and the opposum crawled up to the roof of the kennel and just hung there and dopey Maleka finally realized she had company and tried to jump up and get it. Mom grabbed Maleka out of her kennel and locked the gate and ran into the house to get Dad. He had just gone to bed but came out to see what he could do. The poor little critter was scared (Maleka is huge) and just stayed up there. They convinced Maleka to stay in the house for the night and by 4:30 when she insisted she had to go out the critter was gone. Such excitement, I wish I could have been there.

Opposums are very smart and non aggressive animals except when cornered. I think Maleka is so stinky that the opposum didn't smell her. If that would have been Callie or me the opposum would never have gotten inthe yard. Maleka must have been in la la land. I'm sure when Maleka tells the story there will be a different spin on things.

Later my friends.

Raffles

Whose Bed Is It

My friends, another challenge has been handed to me. This one is from my friend Moses. How do we get to sleep on the bed with Mom and Dad?

What we have to decipher first is how big the bed is and how many will it fit comfortably. If Mom and Dad are sleeping in a twin size bed of course there's no room for you, and Dad may ask if he can sleep on your cushion with you. If the bed is a full size bed and Dad is not a giant and you are not a 150 pound dog, of course there's room. If the bed is a queen or a king - hands down there's room for you - no question.

Once we have established that there is room and they are just trying to hog the bed all to themselves, now the war begins.

There are two ways to go about this. You could make sure that you are the first one on the bed at night and stake out your claim. This may or may not work. If you position yourself smack dab in the middle, you are going to get ousted for sure. If you lay on the foot of the bed, out of the way (try Mom's side - she's probably easier to win over) they may see you lying there so peacefully (pretend to be asleep - AND NO SNORING) and just let you be.

The second way is to wait until they are asleep and cautiously jump up on the bed and position yourself in a free spot. Then set your internal alarm clock soyou wake up before they do and can jump down before they wake up. They'll never know. If they see hair on the bed blame it on the cat.

The eternal question - when will they make a dog size version of the sleep number bed?

Sleep tight my friends - Raffles

The Fine Art of Manipulation

My first topic was so well received that I have had a special request for my next one. My lovely friend Miss Ellie has asked me to address what has always been one of my life's ambitions. How to get more treats.

This is a real art. If you do it right, no one will ever accuse you of begging.

It's all in the eyes.
Dogs have a secret weapon - our eyes. There are two techniques. One is what comes naturally to most of us, we give them the sad eyed look which works for a lot of things. If that is not successful, give them the "hopeful" look, it works every time. My personal favorite is the half smile. It helps if you look a bit goofy (Mom says I'm a master at that). Or, maintain eye contact and hypnotize them. This one takes some time, but if you can perfect it, you've got it made.

If you hear no, but see a yes, hang in there . If things don't look promising try the paw on the lap technique. If that doesn't get you a treat, at least you will get an ear scratch out of your efforts.

Sometimes reverse psychology will work. If they think you're not interested in something yummy they're eating they will think something's wrong and offer you part of what they have, just to see if you're okay. I love when that happens. But it takes a lot of acting on your part.

Remember your owner loves you - hang in there be patient and persistent - they'll eventually weaken.

Raffles

Things I Have Learned

My friends, now that I am at the Bridge, I find I have all this time on my hands until my Mommy comes to meet me. So what is a guy to do. I thought a lot about it and because I have a gift for gab I thought I'd share my knowledge with my friends. In my 10+ years I have learned a lot and I will gladly share it.

The topic I picked for today is: Humiliating Costumes

We all know our Moms love us and want us to look cute and adorable. But at some point we must draw the line. It is not a crime to refuse to wear a ridiculous outfit. Once that outfit is on we all know that the camera is not far behind. Once these photos are on our website we will have little chance of recovering our dignity.

If all else fails and your Mom doesn't realize that the coat you were born in is the most beautiful outfit you could wear, and she insists you must wear a costume for the next holiday, you must do all in your power to see that the costume she selects for you shows you in a good light. Being dressed like a large bumble bee is adorable if you're "that type of dog", but if you are a large macho breed, and she's holding something pink and furry run for the hills. No one will think the less of you.

And there are always tricks to get out of your costumes before that camera flash. If you're Santa's backup reindeer, bow your head on the floor until the antlers are touching, give a quick flip and you'll be rid of that embarassing head dress. Once they're off grab them and bury them - deep.

I could go on and on but I don't want to overload you.

If you have a topic you would like me to address, just let me know. I like a challenge.

Raffles

Did You See My Wings - I Can Fly

Did you guys see my awesome wings. Urby (Bibi) and Dot's Mom, made me a pair of awesome wings. She didn't even know me. What a nice lady. I can get all over the bridge now and meet so many new friends. Thank you so much.
The Rainbow Bridge is a huge place and if I had to walk I'd never meet as many friends. There is something to do every day and so many nice pups I meet new pals every day.

Uh oh, gotta run, they just put out the swimming pools. I'm going to go play lifeguard at that large pool with all the lovely ladies sunning themselves. Anyone need sun screen. Here I come ladies.

Raffles

Happy Mother's Day to the Bestest Mom

Mom,

I'm sorry I'm not there with you on Mother's Day. I tried really hard to hang in there but it was not to be. I know how you always treasured my Mother's Day rubs and kisses. I can't give them to you this year but I hope you can feel the love I'm sending from above. It will come in many forms. The raindrop on the rose bush with the sun glinting on it. The song of the birds in the tree tops, the sunbeam coming through the kitchen window, the new flowers coming up from the ground, the glow of the moon. When you see and hear these things Mom, remember that I love you and I know how much you loved me. Do not be sad for I am making so many new friends, and having a ball running and jumping and get this Mom - I can eat as much as I want and never gain a pound. How great is that? When you think of me remember my long happy life with you and how much we loved each other. And if I had a tail of any substance, I would be wagging it right now because you gave me such a wonderful life.

Gotta run - my friends are here and we are off on another adventure.

P. S. Callie, Maleka and Chewtoy - It's up to you guys to give Mom hugs and kisses today because you know Daddy never acknowledges Mom on Mother's Day. Bad Daddy.

Love you Bunches - Raffles

Oh My Gosh - Dog of the Day

My friends, you won't believe it. Dogster has bestowed upon me Dog of the Day. I can't believe it. Wow, what a great honor. I bet Mom and Dad are so proud. Boy if I was only there to get all the treats Mom would surely bestow on me. But, with all my craftiness and handsome face, I bet once everyone up here at the Rainbow Bridge finds out, they will be showering me with treats.

I know, I know, I hear ya Dad - I won't get the "Big Head".

This is such an exciting day. I've only been here since Sunday and I've already made so many new friends, found the best places to soak up the sun, and staked out a great spot to check out the ladies.

Thanks again Dogster - YOU ROCK!!!!!!!!!

P.S. Callie and Maleka - don't worry about me your little brother is fine.

I'm At The Rainbow Bridge

My friends, that nasty old brain tumor finally got the best of me. I had a really bad night and Mom stayed up with me all night. This morning Mom could tell by looking in my eyes that it was time for her to buy me passage on the Rainbow Bridge train. I was starting to suffer and Mom loved me too much for that too happen. I enjoyed one more sunbeam this morning before I left.

I just arrived. It is a beautiful place the sun is shining, everything is green, the birds are singing. I feel great again. I know Mom is crying her eyes out and she will be sad for a very long time. But she did the right thing. It was time for me to go. I know I will be very happy here. I just met my Mom's first dog Hayley and she's going to show me the ropes. She's going to help me find my grandpa too.

Mom still has Callie and Maleka and Chewtoy so I know she will be okay. Dad is not as emotional as Mom but he had tears in his eyes too. He's down in his workshop right now making me an oak box for my ashes. I know it will be awesome.

Mom says I went out like a gentleman and of course I was handsome right up to the end.

So my friends, next time you sit in a sunbeam think of me.

I am so glad Mom joined Dogster, I had a blast telling everyone my story and I will always love you.
Raffles

Mom Still Loves Me

This darn old brain tumor is making me do bad things, but my Mom still loves me. I who have never soiled in the house ever - for over 10 years have been going poopy in the house while Mommy is at work.

Mommy says its okay because my brain gets confused. Mommy just cleans it up and gives me bunches of kisses. The last two days I've gone on the newspaper and Mom was really proud of me.

Mom is still sleeping with me every night and we get up about 3 times a night. Nights are more difficult. I get very restless.

Mom says she'll know when I need to go to the bridge, she'll see it in my eyes. She's still hoping I have a little more time hanging out in the sun.

I was playing catch with Mom yesterday. That was fun. I hope no one saw us, I have a new PINK ball. Dad says my feminine side is showing.

Mom has been very sad this week. I got her to smile when I gave her my goofy half smile. My grandpa used to say if you've got it flaunt it. My goofy smile is a killer.

Raffles

Where Did That Door Come From

Well it looks like you guys will have to call me "lefty". Mom thinks I've lost the sight in my right eye. She thinks the tumor is now pressing on my optic nerve. The tumor is on my left so it affects my right side. That's kind of strange, but Mom says that how it works. Its very odd not being able to see where I'm going like I used to.

SO, I've been walking into things and getting too close to things, like Maleka the horse - we both don't like that. And I'm wobbly, my right legs don't seem to work the same. I can't seem to feel my feet, and it takes me a bit longer to get here from there. But I'm hanging in there. I'm now taking 4 phenobarbital a day which makes me extremely hungry. The Doc says don't worry about my weight, just keep me happy. I like this guy.

Mom is supposed to keep me from getting stressed out so that means Maleka needs to stay her distance. See there is a silver lining to the cloud.

Uh oh, time for bed. Maybe I'll let Mom sleep in her bed tonight, well at least an hour.

Gotta run - need my beauty sleep.

Raffles

I Made Mom Sleep on the Floor - Sorry Mom

I'm hanging my head low today. I made Mom sleep on the floor. At night I start out in my kennel but I usually don't stay there for long. This darn old brain tumor makes me very restless and I can't sleep all the way through the night. So I call Mom and she comes to get me usually about 11:30 and she takes me outside and then we go sleep on the couch together. I'm talking every night. Mom worries about me in being in the kennel because if I had a seizure in there it would be bad and she says she likes a handsome guy like me to snuggle up against. So Dad puts me in the kennel, but I usually break out by midnight if not sooner. I'm glad Mom is so agreeable.

Lately I just can't seem to focus on how I want to lay on the couch and it takes me awhile to figure out how to get comfy. So I wake Mom up about 2 or 3 times a night to change my position. This morning I took up the whole couch at 1:30 so Mom had to sleep on the floor with Callie on her cushion. Sorry Mom.

Callie sleeps on the bed with Mom and Dad, but when Mom moves she goes with her. Mom calls her velcro.

My tumor is on the left side of my brain so it's starting to affect the right side of my body, especially my legs. Mom worries about me, but because I'm not in pain she tells me to hang in there and be her little man.

Boy was it windy yesterday, it blew our gas grill over and broke the handles off. Mom said it was good I have so much "junk in my trunk" or I would have been blown away. I wonder what she meant by that.

So don't worry about me my friends, I'm still hanging in there, and ladies....
as always "I'm still as handsome as ever".

Raffles

I Have A New Beddy

My Aunt Robbie (my favorite aunt) made me a beddy. It is very handsome like me. She's a very clever Aunt. It's just my size, and is red with black paws on it. No one else has a handmade bed. She must like me the best. I'm very proud. Of course being the generous guy I am, I'll let Callie sleep on it sometimes, but not Maleka the horse. She would smush it and get Leka germs on it. I would like to visit my aunt, but she has a horse like Maleka at her house. His name is Max. He's way bigger than Maleka and Dad says he'd eat me for a snack.

I am a very happy camper this morning. My friend the sun is back. I'm laying in the kitchen on Callie's bed. She shares her bed too. When I lay on her bed I can see Mom in her room. I need to keep an eye on her just in case she wants to give me a treat or two.

It's still cold, but it will be a good day. Mom says she is going to spend most of the day at home. I can always sleep better when she's home, knowing she 's safe and at my beck and call.

Raffles

Rats - Another Seizure

I had another seizure this morning. It was 20 minutes after I had my pill. Mom can't figure that out. It was a short one, and not real severe. Mom was there and just hung on to me and told me I'd be all right. And this time it didn't take too long to get over it. The bad part was that it happened during my breakfast and I hadn't finished eating yet. And you all know what a chow hound I am. I had to get over it quick because Callie was eating my food. How could she? Just because I always push her out of her bowl is no reason to kick a guy when he's down. Never fear Mom got me more food.

I'm very sad today. There are no sun beams in the kitchen today. And it's raining and very dreary. All the snow is gone. Callie and I are hanging out in Mom's room. Soft furniture and cozy blankets.

Poor Miss Callie. Mom took her for a haircut yesterday and she lost her beautiful tail. I loved that tail. It always tickled my nose when I got too close to her butt, but she wore that tail with pride. Now it looks like a nasty rat tail. She's making the best of it, but Mom and Dad are not happy. She won't be going back there again. Mom says it will grow back and she is still beautiful. All her gray hair on her shoulders is gone. Her tail might look funny (don't tell her), but she feels great. She's ready for the warm weather. She was getting warm in the house.

Mom got free coupons for a great new pet food product. It comes in the refrigerated section. It looks like a one pound sausage and you just slice and eat it. It has chicken and vegetables and rice in it - yummy and healthy. Fresh Pet Select. I think it's my new favorite food. I hope Mom gets more.

Well as much as I love yammering on, I'd best get on with my nap. Even a handsome guy like me needs his beauty rest.

Later - Raffles

I Got Stronger Drugs

Last week I had two seizures within four days so I really worried Mom. After the first one Dr. A. said that I could stay on the same dosage I was on because I hadn't had a seizure for two months. After I had the second one he upped the dosage. You know what that means the larger dose of pheonobarbital makes me even more hungry. I know I am driving Mom nuts with my constant whining and barking for more food. I can't help it. Mom's afraid I'm getting to be a blimp again.

Now everytime I make a strange noise Mom comes running. I've been having more of those breathing episodes too. But never fear, I'm hanging in there, and I'm still as handsome as ever.

Callie, Maleka, Chewtoy and I were looking forward to having Easter at our house. All that attention, it would have been fun. But unfortunately Grandma wasn't up to going out so Mom took the dinner she made over to Grandma's house and they all met over there. We can't go because of Grandma's cats. So we were disappointed but the easter bunny did send treats for us.

There wasn't much sun this weekend so that was a bummer. Mom promises it will come back soon and we can hang out on the porch and when it gets warmer she'll get my pool out. I can't wait.

Well gotta run, Mom's at work and she doesn't like me to be on the computer too long when she's not home.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter. Mom made me a bunny out of roast beef. It was awesome.

Raffles

The Sun is my Friend

Yay the sun's out. It's 38 in the sun today and for you pups that live in the South you probably just got a cold chill down your back. For us Northern dogs 38 is a heat wave. I've been in and out all morning. The sun is shining on the back porch and I love to bake in it, but my coat's not very long so I can't stay out too long. My little ears gets cold. Mom says wait a month or so and we''ll be able to hang out on the back porch a lot.

Our kitchen gets the morning sun. It came shining in about 8:30 this morning. Mom but my blanket in a sunny spot. But you know the sun is a tricky guy. Everytime I got really comfortable and was was having a really good dream, the sun would trick me and move somewhere else. That can be a dilemma, do you go with the sun and leave your soft warm blanket or do you stay on blankie and miss out on the rays. Never fear, Mom to the rescue. Every time she saw that I had moved out of the sun's ray she would drag me and blankie to the new spot. It's nice to have a Mom that looks out for me. Dad even moved me. When the sun moves around the house this afernooon then I camp out in the bedroom.

Life is good.

Raffles

Egads, I'm Famous Again

My pal Pippin just told me that Dogster honored me with a daily diary pick. I am over the moon. Thank you Dogster - you made my day. Mommy is so proud. I feel bad that Maleka and Callie have never been selected, but they just don't have the gift of gab that flows out of me. Maybe I'll have to help them with their diaries.

When Mommy comes homes I bet she'll want to reward me with some awesome yummy treat. Can't wait.

Rats - My Map is Missing

Mom just realized my map with all my buddies on it isn't showing up on my page. You have to click on a button to see them. I miss seeing everyone's handsome face on there. I wonder what happened.

Big excitement, we have a new friend. Chloe a most gorgeous Bull Mastif. Check her out and you'll see why I'm smitten. She's Hoover's little sister.

Mom finally posted a new photo of yours truly. I was cocooned in my tiger wrap. It was really cosy.

All three of us (Callie, Maleka and I) are laying in Mom's room with her tonight. She needs our endorphins. She almost got sideswiped this afternoon 2 blocks from home by some jerk in a truck that pulled into her . She was amazed she wasn't hit, it was that close.

Mom made goulash tonight. We got some noodles. Yum, Yum.

Dad is Always Laughing at me

You would think a grown man would have something better to do than laugh at a dog trying to get comfortable. Can I help it if I like to cocoon. I have this unique talent to take any blanket and manipulate it in such a way that I can wrap it around me like a cocoon and only my handsome face shows. It's a real gift. I think someday it may be an olympic sport. So Dad if it's so easy, let's see you do it. Dad is old, so I guess I can give him some pointers. Start with your left front paw and you have to snort a lot, and twirl to the right.

Oops Dad is old and just got all tangled up. I think he'll realize now that I'm a master at my game. I guess I better go help him, Mom will wonder what happened to him.

Winner and still champion blanket roller - Raffles

My Handsome Face is in Plastic

You guys won't believe this. Mom just got a new charge card from Petsmart and it has my handsome face on it. Isn't that amazing. Now everyone will see me. Mom says my little face makes people smile, so she's trying to spread happiness wherever she goes. Some people say Mom is a little strange, but we love her just the same.

Mommy and Daddy's birthday is this week. They were born 2 days apart on the same year. Isn't that a coincidence? Daddy told me he was glad because then he will never forget Mom's birthday and get in trouble. But, silly Daddy he was going to give Mommy her card early because got the days mixed up. This year he thought it was 2 days earlier instead of 2 days later. Poor Daddy, he can never win. I'm glad I have my Dad's handsome looks and my Mom's brains.

Gotta go, Callie and I are trying to come up with the perfect birthday gift. We have it narrowed down to 10 kisses and hours of lap warming or having sweaters made out of our fur to keep them warm on these cold days.


Raffles.

I Shared Today

Mom is very proud of me today. It was my turn for the steak bone tonight and I saved a bit for my sister Callie. Mom was watching me because sometimes I will try and steal it back. But I was a good boy and let her have it. Mom says I am maturing. Callie puts up with me all day and I can be annoying, so I thought I'd better be nice to her today. I was such a good boy, she gave it back to me. Mom says I'm learning. It was a great day. We like Sundays because Mom is usually home with us all day.


Raffles

Mom I Need New Photos

I know you guys must be tired of looking at my same old photos, handsome as they are. I've been bugging Mom to take new photos as I tell her I think I'm getting more handsome every day. She's going to be home all day tomorrow so I'll just bug her until she gives in.

Hope you all have a furtabulous valentine's day.

Raffles.

We're Having A Heat Wave

You'll probably think I'm crazy, but the weather is not bad. Mom says we're having a heat wave. It's been in the 20's. I thought 32 was freezing, but we're starting to like the 20's.

Right now I'm curled up in Mom's chair while she's making my entry across the room. Mom says I'm a little strange. I like to root around on the chair and throw the blankets around so I'm cocooned inside. It's actually an art form. I'm getting signatures to make it an olympic event. Boy do I get cozy inside. Life is good.

Sleep well my friends. It's off to dreamland for me.

Raffles

I Am So Lucky

I just can't tell you how lucky I am to have such wonderful friends. I hope I have thanked everyone who sent me wishes and gifts. What's that song line "I get by with a little help from my friends". Boy is that the truth. Every time Mom logs in to my page, she hears from someone else that is sending well wishes my way. It's nice to know that there are so many caring souls out there.

I am hanging in there. We just take it one day at a time. I have had no seizures since I've been on the phenobarbitol. It does seem to be bothering my liver - that's what my doctor says, so he may need to change my medicine. We'll have to wait and see. My big problem is that the medicine makes me thirsty and hungrrrrrrrry. Please send food!

Yesterday was not a fun day. It was very cold - 14 degrees below and with the windshield factor it felt like 36 degrees below. When Mom left yesterday morning she threw each of us a handful of krispy cereal. Then she left. When I heard the door click I looked up and could not believe what she had done. She left Maleka in the house - my arch enemy. I looked up at her through the window and said "Mom, wait you forgot Maleka". She just kept going. I was in shock. When Mommy came home we were all sleeping soundly not a hair on anyones head out of place. She said it was too cold for Maleka to be outside yesterday and asked how we had all gotten along. No one was talking, it will be our secret, but I sure hope it doesn't get that cold again. Maleka has a habit of taking the spot where I want to sleep. I may not know that's the spot I wanted, but as soon as she takes it, I know I did.

Later my friends - Raffles

Yay It's Warm Outside

We are having a heat wave. Someone said it was 40 today, but rats, it's going to get cold again tomorrow. I keep asking Mom why we live at the North Pole.

Mom took me to see Dr. Anderson tonight to have my blood checked. Yay no seizures since the 13th. I'm hanging in there. Mom says I need to get checked every two weeks so the medicine that's helping me doesn't hurt my liver.

Daddy just came into the room and couldn't find me. I was hiding in the blanket. He said I was in camoflauge. Aunt Robbie made us a blanket with ties along the edges and it was covering my face. Daddy just shook his head and left the room. He never appreciates my marvelous talents.

Uh oh, time for bed. Have to get my beauty sleep. I ran into a couple of foxy girls at the vet's office. They were very impressed when Mom said I lost another couple of ounces.

Raffles

Do you Want the Good News or the Bad News First.

The good news is that I'm as handsome as ever. Ladies check me out.

The bad news is that the doctor says the mass on the left side of my brain is a tumor and it can't be surgically removed. Mom is devastated. Right now I'm feeling great, I'm on phenobarbital and that's keeping the bad seizures away. Mom is still waiting for the doctors to get back to her and see if radiation or chemo would be an option.

We just have to take it one day at a time and see how it goes. I might surprise those doctors and hang in there for quite awhile. I still have mountains to climb. Who am I kidding - no mountains, it's more like there's a lot more meals I need to eat.

Love ya, Raffles

I'm Home

Hi guys, I'm home. I had my MRI on Monday and I was able to go home Monday night. I'm glad it was a MRI and not a catscan. I didn't want a bunch of cats looking at me. The doctor told Mom I had a mass on the left side of my brain. Mom talked to her again today and they're pretty sure it's a brain tumor which has been pushing something causing me all those seizures. The neurologist will take a look at the scans tomorrow and let us know if it can be retracted. We're keeping our paws crossed.

I'm on phenobarbital now for the seizures. We don't know how long the medicine will work, but Mom and Dad will be meeting the doctors soon to figure out our game plan.

I'm a tough guy so don't count me out yet. I'm a fighter and a lot of nice people are praying for me.

I'm resting comfortably at home now, but the medicine is making me hungry - and you know what a chow hound I usually am. I'm starving - send food.

Raffles

Raffles in the Hospital

Hi Guys,

This is Raffle's Mom. Raffles was at the vet late yesterday afternoon to get his stitches out from having his cyst removed and he was fine.

Around 7:00 PM he had a seizure right before I came home - his Daddy was with him. He said it was a long one. Shook them both up. We kept an eye on the little guy and then about 9:30 it started again which seemed to us a grand mal, foaming at the mouth, stiffness of limbs, paddling, unable to control movements, panting and then he just started to settle down and had another one within minutes, both lasting about 3 minutes and a lot of problems for quite awhile afterward. We finally had him calmed down and laying in his bed and 10 minutes later the signs of eyes and ears twitching and he had many small ones lasting 15 - 30 seconds in succession. He scared the heck out of us , We took him into the University emergency clinic. He had 3 small ones on the way to the vet hospital. All totaled he had 12 since 7:00. He had one more before they gave him valium. He had to stay overnight. We saw him before we left at 1:30 AM. He was in an oxygen chamber and still restless, but totally zoned out from the drugs. It broke my heart, his little pushed in face was pressed against the glass.

As you can imagine we had a very sleepless night. He had another seizure this morning about 4:00 AM., so he has to stay another 24 hours. They are giving him phenobarbital. He's alert but still confused, and doesn't have full use of his limbs and may not have vision in one of his eyes. This is what they've found out so far today. It's not hypoglecema - his levels were normal. They took chest xrays to see if he had aspirated into his lungs during the seizure. The scans were normal. They also ran a biolasics test - that was also normal. They are scheduling a MRI for tomorrow to check his brain for tumors or a stroke. They allow visitors this afternoon and as much as I need to see him, I can't go because I think it would stress him too much. He'd see us and think we were taking him home. I can't do that to him. SO, our hearts are still in our mouths, as we await tomorrow's test, and hopefully we will bring him home tomorrow afternoon. Please say a prayer for my little guy. I'd be lost without him.

Thank you for letting me vent - Raffles Mom

Ringing in the New Year with Good News

We heard from Dr. A. yesterday on the pathology reports. Clean bill of health. He said the cyst and large epilude were benign. He said I may get more, but he'll just keep an eye on me. Yay I'm a happy dog, and the good news is that I seem to be even more handsome than ever. Ladies look out. Cana the day get any better?

Mom just made a ham this morning - what a wonderful smell. Christmas was rescheduled until today because Grandma L. was sick last week. She's doing better today so Mom and Dad and our stepsister Quinn are going over there today. Mom has cooked the food here and they'll be transporting, but she promised that she would bring food home for us. I know she'll think about our sad little faces and remember.

Grandma has 2 kitties who don't know what a dog is, so we are not allowed to go with. Rats.

I hope all my friends are as happy and as lucky as me to have people who care about you and always take the best care of you.

Life is good - Blessings to you this brand new year - Raffles

I'm As Handsome As Ever

Hey Guys,

I survived my surgery and had my teeth cleaned - boy does my breath smell sweet now. Mom only saw the jelly bean growth under my lip, but actually the Doc found 4 epiludes on my gums. The large jelly bean one, a medium one and 2 that were just starting. He took them all. But happily he did not have to take any teeth out so I'm my same handsome self. What a relief. The Doc also took a tag off my elbow and a cyst off my other elbow. I have sutures on that elbow and it's all jaggedy, but at least it doesn't itch (yet). He sent the large epilude and the cyst to pathology and we will find out next week. He's pretty sure they will come back benign. Dad says I look like a junk yard dog now with all my macho scars. I tell him each scar has a story - just makes me more mysterious.

So I have antibiotics and pain pills to take. Dad asked if they have any ornery pills. My Dad is such a card.

So I'm just resting and taking it easy and milking it for everything I can get. I haven't let Mom see my mouth yet. I'm still upset with her that I missed breakfast that day. I was soooooooo hungry. We're still negotiating about that meal I missed, I think I should get double meals tonight. Mom says if I'm a good little monkey face, we'll see.

So thank you my friends for all your well wishes.

Handsome as Ever - Raffles

Dad Tricked Me

Dad tricked me again. He took me to the vet this morning. Here I thought we were going on some grand adventure and I was the only one who got to go. I thought it might be a safari or or exploring caves or something really fun, and we ended up at the VET again. Hey a guy can always dream.

Mom noticed the left side of my muzzle looked swollen when she came home last night and she peeled back my lip and found a jelly bean size growth. So because Mom had to work, Dad took me to the vet. Dr. Anderson wasn't available so I saw the nice lady vet today. So the gist of it is I'm going back on Thursday and I'll see Dr. Anderson. Mom says he will clean my teeth, remove the growth and have it checked and also remove a "tag" - Dad calls it a wart on my elbow. I'm not sure what that all means but Mom says they're going to make me all handsome again. So look out girls.

I had my nails trimmed again. Boy they grow fast. And the bad news is that I weigh 30.8 instead of my svelte 28. Rats, that means cutting down on the treats. But in my defense I told Mom they weighed me before they cut my nails so I'm sure I lost at least the .8.

Hey thank you my friends for all the packages under my tree. You guys are awesome. When Mom gets home we'll have to thank you properly.

Well the morning was draining, time for a nap.

Mom Got Me A Tree

Mom put a tree on my page. It's really cool. You can click on it and leave me presents. I already have two presents. One from my sweet little friend Sasha. She really knows what a guy wants. "A Sportscar". Wow! I also received a present from my sister Callie. Can you believe she gave me a box of coal. I couldn't either. She said I was a brat last week.

If any of my pals have this on their page let me know and I'll shimmy down the chimney and leave you a gift. Just like Santa.

Christmas is getting close. I can hardly wait.

Raffles.

I'm a Featured Diary Today - Big Excitement

Mom just called me from work and told me I'm one of the featured diaries of the days. What an honor. Thank you Dogster. I just write from the heart, tell it like it is. Mom says it's amazing what runs around in my brain. Dad says not so much amazing as scary.

So that made my day. I have to run and tell Callie and Chewtoy. They'll be jealous. Dad will be so proud when he hears.

R

It's A Quiet Night

Wow, it's quiet tonight. There was a ruckus earlier, but now Miss Maleka has gone outside and it's so quiet you could hear a pin drop. Callie and I are getting in a little nap. Of course we have to nap by Mom. I sleep with one eye open so I can see if Mom goes to the kitchen and maybe if I look real pitiful or cute she'll bring me a treat. Hey it's worked before. I've got this down to a science.

I'm hoping Mom will find time to start on my new book soon. Last year I gave Grandma L. a book entitled "The Ramblings of Raffles" and she really loved it. and I'd like to do the second volume soon so I can give it to Grandma for Christmas. My photos always make my Grandma laugh. I have an obligation.

Oops Mom's looking sleepy. Gotta go put her to bed.

Raffles

Naked Again

Mom looked at me this morning and said wait a minute . something is different.- You're naked again. Where's your collar? It took Mom a couple of hours before she found it. I hid it really good this time. It was way behind the couch. Dad said he didn't take it off and Mom couldn't remember taking it off. I'm not telling what happened. I love being naked.

A Song About Little Old Me

Mom made up a song about me a few years ago. It is sung to the tune of "Bad Boys" from the cop show.

She can never get past the third verse, so if anyone has any suggestions, please let me know.

It goes like this:

Fat Boy, Fat Boy, what ya gonna do, what ya gonna do when he sits on you.
Fat Boy, Fat Boy, what ya gonna do, what ya gonna do when he sits on you.

His neck is 14, his shoulders 25, he weighs 32.5, Man that dude is wide.

Fat Boy, Fat Boy, what ya gonna do, what ya gonna do when he sits on you.
Fat Boy, Fat Boy, what ya gonna do, what ya gonna do when he sits on you.

He stands one foot four, four feet on the ground,
when he rumbles by, no one makes a sound.

Fat Boy, Fat Boy, what ya gonna do, what ya gonna do when he sits on you.
Fat Boy, Fat Boy, what ya gonna do, what ya gonna do when he sits on you.

Bow legged is his stance, man he just loves to dance,
Please don't touch his toes, or he will bite your nose.

Fat Boy, Fat Boy, what ya gonna do, what ya gonna do when he sits on you.
Fat Boy, Fat Boy, what ya gonna do, what ya gonna do when he sits on you.

GET CRUSHED!!

I'm Doing Better

Thanks to all my pals who have been concerned about me. Mom says I'm doing pretty good. A few weeks ago I had 5 of "my attacks". I've had these over the past 4 years, but they were every now and then, but about 3 weeks ago I had 5 in one week. Unfortunately no one but Mom and Dad have witnessed the attacks. They're kind of a respiratory type where I don't seem to be able to catch my breath. Then a few days after the week with all the attacks I had a different kind. It may have been a petit mall seizure. My vet says maybe I was so stressed from all the others I had that one. Mom wasn't home at the time but Jaimie from upstairs was with me. She said I staggered around like I was drunk and kind of keeled over and urinated at the same time. Boy was I embarrassed. Jaimie stayed with me and calmed me down. She takes very good care of me. She's in vet school. So myvet said after the xrays I might have pneumonia so I've been on an antiobiotic. I took my last pill tonight. I haven't had any attacks since I've been on the medicine.

Mom did get scared when they got home today. She thought she saw me stagger out the door, but thinks she might have been wrong because I was okay when she looked at me again. I do cause her a lot of worry.

Daddy was really nice to me yesterday as I had an upset tummy. I might have had a little too much Thanksgiving turkey.

Mom and Dad have a four day weekend so at least one of them has been home most of the time, so Callie and I are pretty tired.

I'd better go get my beauty sleep. Ok ay Callie I heard that. You're in big trouble.

I've Been "Turkey Tagged" by Valborg

Valborg is one of my handsome pup pals. I'm not very good at this tag game, so I think I will just say why I'm so thankful.

1. I'm thankful that Mom has a comfy lap and lets me warm it up.
2. I'm thankful that my Mom is concerned about my health and I have a vet that takes very good care of me.
3. I'm thankful that I have a nice warm house and beddys that I can cuddle up with and I don't have to be outside with my sister Maleka. She doesn't always like me.
4. I'm thankful I have Callie to keep me company during the day. Being an only pup would be scary and boring.
5. I'm thankful that Mom is a good cook. I wish she'd be a little more generous with the portions, but she always gives me a healthy yummy meal, just not enough.
6. I'm thankful for Chewtoy - I'm bigger than him.
7. I'm thankful that people always get a chuckle after they see me. Maybe I was a comedian in another life.
8. I'm thankful that Mom knows there's always one more serving in the peanut butter jar.
9. I'm thankful for all my pals on Dogster. I have truly been blessed and it gives Mom something to do being my secretary.
10. I'm thankful that Mom found me and I have a forever home.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Raffles

I Survived

Mom took me to the vet for my 6 month comp. exam on Saturday. I've been having some type of attacks, so Dr. Anderson kept me all day. I think he just wanted to have a macho guy in the building. They put me to sleep so they could take some xrays. Xrays are expensive, so Mom says there goes my allowance. They haven't figured out yet why I'm having the attacks, But the xrays did show that I might have pneumonia so I'm on anti-biotics. Mom got worried because I ran out to meet her and was my same old self, but by the time we got home I was kind of zombie like. I wouldn't even eat. Now that's really saying something. It was the drugs and then I had 4 shots. The Rabies shot was in my leg that I had knee surgery on, so I was limping when I came home that scared Mom.

By morning I was fine again. I guess Mom doesn't ever have to worry about me becoming a druggie. I hate drugs.

Gotta run, time for Mom to go to bed. Tomorrow's Wednesday, one more day closer to Saturday when Mom will be home most of the day. Yay.

I wonder where she and Daddy go each day. I hope they're staying out of trouble.

Raffles

Mom Says I Have A Hollow Leg

Can I help it that I'm always hungry. I tell Mom I can't help I'm so doggone handsome and its the same thing , I can't help I'm always hungry. And when I'm hungry I have to tell people about it. I get in so much trouble some time. I try to explain that I need to eat frequently to keep up my handsome body shape (which Mom say is portly with a narrow waist), but Mom's not buying it. If I bellow too much, out comes the squirt bottle water of discipline. That shuts me up just looking at it, as no matter how fast I run that squirt can usually get me, so I clam up quickly so Mom doesn't hit the button. Mom thinks I must have a hollow leg where I store the food.

I have worried Mom this week. I had four of my attacks this week. Two of those were within a few minutes of each other. Mom's on top of it with Dr. Anderson. They never happen in front of him so we're not sure what they are. Now Mom is thinking they might be some kind of a small seizure. I've always had them now and then and I get really scared and so does Mom. But I've never had four in one week. I think this means I will be staying at the vets soon for a whole day. Mom says it's weird because I don't get them when I'm stressed. They just happen when I'm just sitting there. I don't know how to explain it. I make this noise like I can't breathe and Mom says my little body heaves and I get real scared and I forget to breathe. Mom and Dad talk real calm to me and try to get me to relax. They're great. It usually only happens for about a minute or two, but to Mom and I it seems forever. Does this happen to any of you guys? I suppose I will have to have a lot of tests. I'm not looking forward to that. Mom thought that I wouldn't have the attacks any more after I had my nose job and my pallette reconstruction, but I still get them. It's tough to get old.

But on happier thoughts, Mom is going to be home with us all day until Grandma L. calls and says the hospital is letting her go home. We've been worried about her, but it looks like she is doing better. We're glad. Her kitties are missing her.

Raff

What a Week

The "V" boys have signed my guest book and they have created their own guest book as well. Check them out. They are very fun and macho guys. Now let me see if by brain works. It's Verlin Wherlin, Veego Sleego and Valborg and sweet little Vlad who is up at the bridge. They're in the photo contest, please give my friends a vote.

Mom is signing us up for the photo contest too, so we would appreciate your votes as well.

Mom watched the "Dog Whisperer" last night and thinks she is going to be able to take alpha from me. I'll have to be on my guard.

Uh oh, gotta run, Mom is taking down the garden fencing and now I'll be able to explore the vegetation. Big Fun.

Raffles

Kitty is Safe

Our neighbor's kitty "Puffy" was stuck in the tree for over three days. He's safe now, due to a lot of people caring about that little ball of fluff. You can read all about it in Chewtoy's diary on Catster. We were all very happy when the kitty came down. It rained really hard later that night after he was rescued so we were all thankful that he was rescued before the rain came. Even though he's a cat, I was worried about the little guy.

Raffles

Kitty In The Tree

Our neighbors kitty is stuck in their tree. It's a cute little gray kitty. They said it's been up there almost 24 hours. Dad went up there on a ladder but the kitty got scared and went farther up. When Mom got home she climbed up as far as she could and put a can of wet cat food in a lower area of the tree to see if it would smell it and come down and eat it and then be able to jump down. It's been raining all afternoon so poor kitty is all wet.

The mother cat went up to try and coax it down but it still wouldn't budge. I guess we just have to wait until it gets up its nerve to try and come down on it's own.

His Mom called the fire department, but they don't do that any more.

We just hope he comes down by morning. At least he won't be hungry. Maybe the squirrels will help get him down.

I'm glad I don't climb trees. I'd never get down either. Of course I'd bark and bark and everyone would be so annoyed, I'm sure they'd find someway to get me down. You know how the squeaky wheel always gets the oil.

Night, Night Raffles

Rats, Gained Some Weight

Mom took Grandma for groceries and stuff on Friday, so Mom was home with us all weekend. Dad went up to Wisconsin for the weekend so it was just us and Mom. Yay!

Mom took Callie and I to the vet yesterday. Luckily all I had done was a toenail trim and then I got to go home. Poor Callie had to stay awhile and have some tests. Her liver numbers were high so she had to have some more tests. We're keeping our toes crossed that it's just a little case of pancreatitis which they're treating her now with antibiotics. And now she has coccidia which she gets some other medicine for. Luckily none of the rest of us have it. So Mom will find out in a couple of days if Callie's liver is okay.

Every time I'm at the vet they weigh me and the bad news is I was at 31. Still lighter than my all time high of 32.5 but I know Mom will be cutting out my treats again. Rats!

I think Mom got a little upset with me yesterday. I still have that leash fetish thing and yesterrday was no exception. Callie said I embarrassed myself once again.

I'm sitting on Mom's chair and wish she was sitting with me but she can't reach the computer from there. We should all sleep well tonight.

Uh oh, Grandma Nelson is on the phone, gotta run.

Raffles

Yay, It's The Weekend

The weekend is here again. Mom went to the market and the chiropractor and then spent the rest of the day with us. Yay. So as you can imagine I'm plumb tuckered out. I've been keeping an eye on mom and being busy going in and out all day. Mom asked me if I thought we had a revolving door installed. Mommy is so funny sometimes.

I worried Mom this morning. I ate my breakfast, but did not take any bannana pieces or dog treats this morning. Mom thought one of the pod people took me over. I never refuse treats. I guess I was just a little out of sorts this morning.

Callie and I are so tired just watching Mom clean the house. I'm glad she didn't bring out the sucking machine. Callie just goes crazy when that comes out. She used to bite the old one, but now that Mom has a new one especially for our dog hair, she makes sure Callie stays away from it.

Mom and Dad are picking Grandma up tomorrow and joining the rest of the family for my Uncle's birthday celebration. They are going to a restaurant so we're not invited. I'll have to make sure Mom wears slacks that have pockets tomorrow so she can slip a little something in there for me from her dinner.

Well I can barely keep my eyes open so I think I'll go find my beddy.

Raffles

I Will Live Vicariously Through Callie

Callie and Mom just got home from the river. Callie is exhausted. She said there were all kinds of dogs there. I wish I could have gone, but Mom says it's too far for my little legs to go through the woods and I'm not really social. I'll just have to settle for smelling Callie and just imagining what she got up to.

She's plumb tired out and sleeping on the footstool, right by Mom of course. She said they stopped at McDonalds and got burgers. But you know how Mom is always fair and what one gets, the others get as well. So, Mom brought a hamburger home for Maleka and I to share. Of course Callie wanted some of that as well. She is kind of a piggy.

Mom stopped at the library yesterday and got a couple of books on how to draw dogs. You know what that means. We'll be models. I hope she doesn't make me wear any dumb costume. I told her I would pose naked. Mr. Dare Devil.

Well gotta sign off. Mom wants the computer.

Later - Raffles.

Hey Mom, What's going on?

You will not believe what happened. Mom got up at 5:30 this morning to go to the farmers market with Uncle Bryan. She took her shower and got dressed and then instead of making our breakfast right away like she always does, she gave us a treat and then left. I just stared in disbelief at the door. Wait a minute what is going on? WHY DIDN"T MOM FEED US? Maybe the pod people got Mom and that wasn't our real Mom. Our real Mom would never forget to feed us. I was in shock and my tummy was very empty. We always get fed like clockwork at 5:30 AM and 5:30 PM. I don't even have to look at the clock, because my tummy always tells me. When it's 5:30 and Mom hasn't given me my supper I go and remind her.

Dad was still there, so Callie said, don't worry I'm sure Mom asked Dad to feed us. Then Dad left. Now Callie was worried too. Did they go to work and forget to feed us and we wouldn't see them until 5:00 PM.

At 8:00 Mom came back back with her market bags. What a relief. We told her our tummies were empty and we were so hungrrrrrrrry. Mom found a note on the counter that Dad said he didn't have time to feed us, he wanted to get in some putting practice before his golf game. Mommy said something that I can't repeat and made our breakfast right away. She even put in special treats. I knew Mom wouldn't have forgotten. She said she asked Dad to feed us before he left as his golf game wasn't for another two hours. I bet Dad will get an earful when he comes home tonight. Or maybe Mom will forget to feed him. Then he'd know how it is to be hungry. Bad Daddy.

Mom says it's a sickness he has. It's called GOLF. Dad has 3 days off and he's playing golf every day. Poor Mommy. We told her that's okay, as we are much more fun to hang out with than Dad.

The weather is beautiful and will be all weekend. It's sunny and there's a nice breeze.

Uh oh, gotta go. I just saw a squirrel on the garage roof,. Now that my tummy is full I have the energy to go investigate.

Raffles

I'm A Diary Favorite

Wow! Boy do I feel special. Dogster just told me I'm in the list of Diary favorites for today. I'm famous again. I hope I don't get what Dad calls "the big head". I'm just very proud to be selected. And I met a new friend out of it. That's what I really like. His name is Diesel and he looks very hip in his cool shades.

Raffles

I Was Naked

Big fun tonight. Mommy took off my collar and massaged my neck. It felt soooooooooooooooooooooo good. Then Dad opened the back door and I streaked the back yard naked. I know it was very daring. That's the kind of crazy guy I am. She won't put my collar back on until I go to bed, so I'm free, I'm free.

I actually don't mind wearing my collar. It keeps me safe and I have all these jingly things on it. The bad part is that Chewtoy can always hear me coming, I can't sneak up on him. Rats.

Daddy finally witnessed my brilliance today. Mommy has told him before how smart I am but he usually shakes his head and leaves the room. Today he saw how I tell Mommy when our water bowl is empty. I walk over to the dishwasher and bark at it. Dad didn't understand at first until Mommy explained it. Water in my bowl - water in the dishwasher. Yes, I am that smart. It's a gift.

Oh Gotta Go, I bet Mommy wants to give me another massage. I will sleep well tonight.

Raffles

Grandma and Grandpa Are Coming

Our Grandma and Grandpa Nelson are coming to see us tomorrow. They live in Arkansas part of the year and Montana the rest of the time so we only get to see them about once a year. They drive here and stop a lot of places to see all their friends, before they get here so they have a lot of good smells they bring. They are always nice to us and know just where to scratch our ears. We are so excited. We will try to be on our best behavior.

I heard Mom say they were coming for breakfast tomorrow and will stay all morning. Mom says we're going to have french toast and bacon. Yummy. If she says we're, I'm sure that means I'm included. I love Mom's french toast.

Raffles

Mom Says I'm Famous

I'm so excited and honored that Dogster elected me for diary of the day. Mom says I have a gift for the gab. Dad says I talk too much. I was just bowled over when Mom told me she saw my funny face on Dogster's home page. This really made my day, probably my month. But I have to give Mom some of the credit. My spelling isn't the best so she helps me out a bit.

I've met so many friends today, and got lots treats and just gabbed to my new buds. I've had a fabulous day. I hope I've responded to everyone that contacted me. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.

I have so many handsome and beautiful new faces on my page now. Check out my guest book too, I have pals from all over When Mom has time, we have to check out everyone's pages and see what's going on in their lives.

I probably won't be able to sleep all night. Callie and Raffles and Chewtoy are happy for me, but I think they might be just a little jealous.

Love ya,

Raffles

I Almost Laughed My Butt Off

The "horse" had a bath today. Callie and I enjoyed watching that. Maleka is always making me crazy so I had a good time seeing her squirm. Mom said she wouldn't have to have a bath later tonight because Maleka got her wet too. I'm not that fond of baths myself, but I don't think I put up that much of a fuss. It's such an ordeal, Maleka usually only has a bath once a year. Now you know why my Dad calls her stinky. Mom has some shampoo she puts on her without water. She does that a few times a year.

Mom did a wonderful job on Maleka's kennel. She washed her pillow covers and quilt and put new straw on the concrete floor. One side is cozy and comfy and the other side Mom leaves bare concrete to keep her cool. I'd even hang out in there but Maleka is very possessive.

It's My Birthday

Hi Guys,

Mom says it's my birthday and I'm ten years young today. Does that mean everyone has to do everything I say today? I'm thinking that's not the case, because I've been bossing Maleka and Callie around all day and they're not following my orders. I told them because it's my birthday I get to have their suppers too. They totally ignored me and ate them. I could not believe it. They either don't know it's my birthday or Mom should take them in to check their hearing. Very dissapointing.

So I'm still on my quest to find my sister. She and I were the only ones in the litter. We were born in Lincoln, Nebraska on August 11, 1997. I sure would like to know how she is doing. Mom says there are 955 dogs on Dogster who have their birthday today, so she is trying to look at all of them. That will take forever. She was hoping there was some way to search by birthdate.

It is so hot again today, I'm glad our electricity is working for the fans. Some people will be without it until Tuesday because of this mornings early storm.

Gotta run, Dad is singing happy birthday to me again. Funny, his version is different than Mom's and when he sang it Mom threw a pillow at him.

Raffles

Daddy Has A Black Eye

My Mom came home from work today and saw Daddy holding an ice pack to his eye and heard those words she never wants to hear. "Now don't freak out, but" and then Daddy showed Mom his eye. He had hit himself in the head with his hammer. Mom said he was really lucky. He hit himself with the business end of the hammer right under his eye. He has a cut and a really big shiner. It was scary, he could have hit his eye, it was that close. It happened late this morning and he hadn't washed it off. Mommy made him clean it with something. Daddy's are so dopey sometimes. The swelling has gone down now. Daddy says he's going to tell the guys that Mom popped him one. Daddy is so funny sometimes.

We're just glad he's okay. Mom's holding her breath because she says bad things come in threes and Daddy fell off of a ladder a couple of weeks ago.

Raffles

I Smell So Good

Callie and I just got back from the groomer this morning. I had a bath and toe trims (which I hate) and etc., and I smell so good. My coat is very shiny. Callie says I embarassed myself again with my leash fetish problem. I can't seem to help it. I grab onto my leash and keep pulling and pulling and if Callie's leash is near me I hang on to that too. Mom and Callie are not pleased. The people around me think it 's so cute so maybe that's why I keep doing it.

Our vet is connected to the groomer so Mom took us over there to say hi and get me weighed. I'm in trouble - I gained 1.3 pounds. That's bad news, it means less treats for me. I was hoping she would not weigh me.

The groomer did something weird to Callie's eyebrows, but Mom says they will grow out. Callie was really nervous. She always thinks that Mom won't come back for her, but she always does. The vet assistant held Callie while Mom took me out to the car first (we're quite a handfull for Mom when she takes us out together), and Callie was so scared, and when she saw Mom she went ballistic. She still has that separation anxiety thing going.

So, needless to say Callie and I are so exhausted. We will be napping for the rest of the day.

Boy I hope my tongue doesn't stick out again when I'm sleeping, that is so embarassing. In one of my many adventures with a cute lady dog, I got too friendly and she wasn't having it and pushed me off her and I somehow ended up with a mouthful of blood and it turns out I nipped off a little chunk of my tongue. I was fine, but now I have this little piece missing and when I stick out my tongue when I'm sleeping everybody grins at me, reminding me that I'm not quite the ladies man I think I am.

Well, off to my nap.

Raffles

I Love Weekends

Yay it's the weekend. Mom is home. She took a vacation day yesterday and spent it with Grandma. So she said she'd be home for the whole weekend.

Mom went to the market this morning. I love market days. Mom always comes back with something yummy that she shares with us. Today she got blueberries. I love blueberries. Callie doesn't have the refined pallette that I have so I get her share too. Yummy. Mom says fruit and vegetables are good for us. Mom also got cauliflower - we love cold steamed cauliflower. Dad thinks we're crazy. Mom gave us rice krispies with milk and bannanas for supper because it was so warm. The first time Mom gave it to us and it made those noises, I thought someone was trying to steal my food. Now that I know no one is after my krispies, I love to hear the snap, crackle and pop when I eat it. Could this day get any better?

I was talking to Mom earlier. Yes I do talk, it drives Dad crazy. But never before has Mom actually heard what I said. She usually knows what I mean just because she's very smart. But this time she sat straight up and told Dad, did you hear that he said Mommy. Well Dad heard it too, but he just shook his head and left the room. I think I'm making progress. Mom is learning dog language. I was wrong the day did get better.

Raffles

Quiet Night

I'm trying to be really quiet tonight because Mom is in day 3 of her headache. I'm sure it couldn't be us guys barking that gave it to her. Callie and I are hanging out with her in the sitting room with the air on and trying to behave. Maleka is waiting outside for Dad and Uncle Barry to come home from golf. They played 36 holes today. Mom says they are addicted, whatever that means. Uncle Barry came here from Florida for a week of vacation and he and Dad are playing every day. I don't think Mom appreciates that. I heard those funny words "golf widow" again. Mom says it's good that she has such good little monkey faces to keep her company.

I have a new toy. It's a big black rubber bone with holes on the ends of it. It's just the right size for me to carry. I get really excited when Mom throws it and it bounces. When Mom tries to get it back, she has a hard time, because my teeth are way back in my mouth and I can hang on to it forever. I do let her win sometimes. Come on she's my Mom, I have to. Besides, she bought it for me.

Callie doesn't play with toys much. She's a girl. And she's getting older. She sleeps alot. I do too, but that's just to recharge my energy so I can be a little energizer bunny.

Well I'd better sign off, I think Mom might need me to sit on her lap.

Raffles

I Won, I Won

We played my favorite game this morning. It's called "The Sky Is Falling". When Mom has time before work we play this game. It actually was a game Mom always played with Callie but I thought it looked like so much fun, now I get to play too. Mom takes a couple of sheets of toilet paper off the roll and tears them into small pieces and blows a piece off her hand above our heads. We have to catch the pieces in our mouth. If we catch it before it hits the floor we get one point. If we get it after it hits the floor we get a half a point. The first one to ten wins. Sometimes I steal Callies piece and this morning one of her pieces landed on her back and I got that one too. So I WON, I WON! Callie used to always win, but now I'm getting really good at it and I jump up in the air to get them. Mom says that's the most exercise I get all day. And it's good for us too, extra fiber. Maleka tried to play too, but she's not very good at it and got bored with it.

Raffles (aka Sky Avenger)

My Sisters Got In A Fight

Mom gave us a treat tonight out on the porch - crispy rice cereal. Mom feels really bad because she was distracted and didn't put the treats far enough from each of us. All of a sudden Callie and Maleka started fighting. It was really scary, but you know me that didn't stop me from eating. Mom separated them and Callie was limping for awhile.

She took Callie into the house and checked her out. Callie was pretty shook up and Mom said it was okay as no one drew blood. Then Dad checked out Maleka and she had some blood over her eye, a couple of places where her hair was pulled out. Dad found some of Callie's hair on the porch so Mom checked her out again and she found she had blood on her ear where the clump of hair was pulled out and on the inside of her ear she had some bites. Our friend upstairs Jaime (who is going to Vet school) came down and took a look at both of them and suggested what to put on their owies, and keep an eye on Callie's ear. They are both okay now. I'm glad I stayed out of it. I was more concerned about the food. They will be leary of each other for awhile but they'll make up. I gave Callie kisses and I think she feels better now.

Dad said it's unusual that I'm not the one who caused the ruckus.

We should all sleep really well tonight after all the commotion.

Raffles

Raffles In Love

What a month I've been having. My Mom found Dogster while searching the web and she made a page for me and my sibs. My page is the best of all four as I think I am the most photogenic of the bunch. It has been so much fun meeting everyone. There are a lot of hot pups out there. I have a new girlfriend Sasha (she is so classy and gorgeous). She was the first to welcome me to Dogster. I think I'm in love. Thanks for the rosettes and stars Sasha. I feel really special.

I love weekends. My mom says she is a golf widow. I'm not exactly sure what that means, but my Dad is hardly ever around and Mom spends all her time with us. So it has to be something good.

Mom made liver on Monday, it was sooooooo yummy. As I'm still on this dumb old diet, I don't get too much and Mom is very fair. Maleka and Callie are not on the diet, but they don't get any more than me. I like that about my Mom. We always share in our house. But, if she were to slip me a little extra because I'm so adorable, I told her I wouldn't tell.

Does anyone know if you can trace relatives. I would love to connect with my sister. We were the only two in the litter. We came from Lincoln, Nebraska. Wouldn't that be a hoot if my sister had a page on Dogster and we met. I would be in heaven. SO, if any of you girls have a birthday of August 11, 1997 and came from Lincoln, Nebraska and look like me, I'd love to get to know you. My coat is brindle. Mom says I'm a purebred Boston Terrier, but she says I kind of look like a French Bulldog too.

Oh gotta run, Callie said there's excitement brewing outside.

Raffles

Blew Out My Knee

Earlier this year I jumped off the bed and hurt my back leg. I looked pretty pathetic, walking on three legs and my leg shaking. My Mom took me in for xrays. The vet says I ruptured the Cruciate ligaments in my knee. I landed wrong and Mom says I'm too chunky for my little legs, weighing in at 32.5. So I had to have surgery on my knee. There was more damage than they thought and it was scary, but I did okay. They shaved my leg down to my ankle. After it was over, I had on this blue bandage that looked like a cast. Mom was very relieved when they called her to tell her the surgery went well. I hate drugs. They had to put on a pain patch so they had to shave a postcard size spot on by body to attach it. I looked pretty silly for awhile, but the hair on my leg is all grown back, but you can still see the spot they shaved on my back.

Mom bought me a really cool bed with sides and kept it in the kitchen so my leg was safe so someone (Maleka - aka the horse) wouldn't step on me.
Then came the hard part, the rehab. Mom had to put ice packs (actually she used bags of peas - good thing they were frozen or I would have gobbled them up) on the incision area twice daily for 10-15 minutes for a week. The second week Mom had to put warm compresses on my knee and flex my joints 15-20 times twice a day for 4 weeks. I hated that as I don't like anyone touching my feet. Week 3 was massage for 4 weeks - that got to be enjoyable. Swimming would have been good exercise, but my doggy pool wasn't big enough and neither was the bathtub. But, now I don't limp at all any more. My Vet was very proud of me. Oh, and needless to say I really milked this for a long time. The worst part of it is that the Vet said I had to lose weight. So Mom has scaled back on the treats and I've lost 4.5 pounds. I'm down to a svelte 28 pounds. I don't get much exercise as I'm a nightmare to walk. I have a leash fetish. I can't keep them out of my mouth. So Mom doesn't walk me, but we do play around in the back yard.

Callie is a great sister, she stayed by me when I wasn't feeling well and told Maleka to leave me alone.

I scared Mom last week. She wasn't home and I jumped off of something, and hurt my leg again. Mom went into panic mode when she saw me limping, but I apparently just sprained it and I'm as right as rain again. The bed is off limits and I'm supposed to not jump on Mom's chair when she's not home.

So another adventure, but I wouldn't want to go through that again, so I'm trying to stay on my diet.

Raffles

Mom Got Me A Nose Job

Even though I'm so macho, I still have had a few health issues. Mom says I have bug eyes. What does that mean? I've had a few problems with my eyes but they're fine now. I never have problems seeing when someone has a treat for me.

I've always been a loud breather and snorer. Last year my vet told Mom that my breathing was becoming an issue and I had a long pallete. SO, I GOT A NOSE JOB. I had surgery to open up my nares (nose) and also had my pallete corrected. I can breathe so much better now. The vet says they can hear themselves think now when I'm in the room. They say I'm a different dog. Before they always knew I was there. So physically you can't really tell I've had a nose job. I'm just as handsome as ever.

My Mom was so scared during my surgery and recovery, but I came through with flying colors. She was so relieved. Boy did I milk it. Mom spent all her time with me. It was great.

Raffles

The Family Expands

In 1998 my Mom hooked up with Dave who is now my Dad. Callie and I liked Dave, but he had baggage. A Siberian Husky named Maleka who looked like a big horse to me. Dave also had a cat named Chewtoy. It was really funny that Maleka and Chewtoy had the same color eyes, a light scary blue. As time went on, my Mom sold her house and we all moved into Dave's house and they eventually got married and we all live together in another house in Northeast Minneapolis. The house is a duplex and really nice and we have a huge back yard. We have had different renters over the years and they always seem to take time out of their schedules to pay attention to us. Our current renters are really nice and have 2 cats and a dog named Cleo (Beagle), about the same age as Callie. I sometimes chase her, but deep down I really like her. She's a fox. Cleo's Mom is going to school to be a vet and Cleo's Dad is a chef, so they really look after us well.

Maleka and I don't get along any more. She's a big moose and doesn't always see me so I bark a lot at her. It's mostly so she knows I'm there and besides she's about 40 pounds bigger than me and that means less for me to eat, and with those scary blue eyes people pay more attention to her than me. That's just not right. While Mom and Dad are at work, she stays outside in this big kennel that Dad made her. It's attached to the garage and is really big and has straw and a blanket and a doghouse in it. She has tons of fur and gets hot so Mom has made three dirt areas that she can dig in around the yard to keep cool. She's always dirty. One time she got sprayed by a skunk, but I'm sure she'll tell you all about that on her page.

Callie stays with me in the house during the day. She's my big sister and takes care of me. I know I can be annoying to her sometimes but she has a lot of patience. I love her.

Chewtoy is allowed to go on the furniture so he can get away from us. He is a good cat. He always leaves a little something in his bowl for Callie and me. I just never seem to get enough calories.

Life is good.

Raffles the Journey Begins

It seems so long ago. I was born in Lincoln, Nebraska on August 11, 1997. My doggie Mom's name was Princess Star III and my doggie Dad was Rocky Moon-Beam. My registered name is Sir Tyler Raffles, but everyone calls me Raffles. I'm not that stuffy. My doggie Mom just had a two puppy litter. I wonder what ever happened to my sister. I heard she was a real pistol.

My Mom drove from Minnesota all the way to Lincoln to pick me up. I was too little to know what was going on. I went with this nice lady and I didn't get scared until she left me in the car alone to get a hotel room. Then I got nervous, but she came back to get me and we spent the night in this room. The next day we drove home to Minnesota. What an adventure. I met my new sister, Callie. She wasn't to thrilled to see me. She was used to having Mom all to herself and now I was there looking cute as a button.

Callie and I bonded and now she's my best friend and protector. I had a good childhood. Mom worked and Callie and I took care of the house while she was gone. We had a huge backyard and gardens to hide in. On my first birthday Mom had a party for me in the backyard and invited all her friends who had dogs. Callie wrote a poem for the invitations and it was a big surprise for me. We had a barbecue and games and contests and there were about 14 dogs and no fights. We all had a great time.