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A Poodle's Pondering

The Big Move

We spent a week moving my sister into her new house. The big truck scared me a little, but I followed Dad back and forth as he and Val's friends loaded all her stuff. Boy, does she have a lot of stuff! I didn't like the truck ramp, 'cause it made a funny noise when people walked on it. I did get to ride in it though, and it was fun, sitting up big and tall above the other cars we passed.

I didn't like the new house at first. It has slippery floors and I couldn't get a grip to jump like I can at home. I was so afraid of it at first, but then, I did something I didn't know I could do -- I jumped over the back of the couch to get into Dad's lap. Boy, were he and Andy surprised! They knew I could jump, but they didn't know I could jump that high. I even surprised myself!

Now, I'm used to the new house and its slippery floors and I can't wait to vistit again. The yard is big, and there are lots of great things to sniff. On just the second day, I discovered a rabbit and a cat, and they both loved to be chased -- they ran like crazy. There's also a beautiful Golden Retriever across the street who I think has taken a fancy to me. She's a big girl, and she probably thinks I don't measure up, but when I visit again, I'll show her that I've got a BIG personality.

Big Trip Tomorrow

Tomorrow I get to go on a good, long ride in the car. We are going to help my big sister move into a new house. She lives 3 hours away, but I love riding in the car to go visit her. I miss her a lot, and she always brings me something special when she comes to visit, like the stuffed chick for Easter. When we visit her, mom and dad always stop at nice places where I can stretch my legs. I especially like the Welcome Center which has a really neat area just for pets, and I always meet some interesting dogs there. I'm so excited, my tail has wagged like crazy all day. I heard mom and dad talking, so I know sister's new place has a nice yard for me to play in. She says her new neighbors are really nice. Since most really nice people have dogs, I hope they have some playmates for me.

I just have to remember to stay out of the way while everyone is moving the big stuff. I wouldn't want to get a foot stepped on and miss my chance to check out the new neighborhood. I've been promised a walk to scout the area after the work is done, and I just know there'll be all kinds of great things to sniff and see.

Digger can't go because he doesn't like being in the car for very long. He meows too much and gets carsick. He'll miss playing with me while I'm gone, but he'll be fine. Grandma's going to feed him and make sure he stays in at night. I'll tell him all about the trip when I get home.

Sad Day In The Neighborhood

My feline neighbor Mario has disappeared. My mom and dad have helped our neighbor search, and I'm keeping an eye out, too. I like to bark at Mario, but it's just good natured teasing. He's a bit ornery because he's 15 years old, but I really do like him. I just don't like it when he chases my cat. My neighbor Bonnie and her mom are very sad that he hasn't been found, but my dad thinks a coyote may have gotten him. I've never seen a coyote around here, but I've heard them, and they don't sound too friendly. I'm not allowed outside at night without one of my people along.

I hope Mario is just pouting because his mom's brother brought his dogs to visit. He's done that before, but he's never stayed away this long. I think my cat, Digger, misses Mario too.

There was a funny moment today that I'd like to share. Bonnie's niece is visiting with her Great Dane puppy. He sure is a big fella! He's 4 months old and already weighs 60 lbs. I went over to greet him, and HE RAN from me. Imagine; a great big puppy scared of little ole me! Usually, the only critters I scare away are the squirrels.