Category: The Ninja

Nature Friday ~ June 14, 2024

~ Tails Around the Ranch ~ 55 Comments

Elsa on sofaWell, will you lookie here…once again it’s  Friday and that means we’re joining our friends from Adventures of the LLB Gang. It’s been hot this week so I’m kinda melting whenever I find a comfy spot. In case you’ve missed us, there’s good reason.  Mom has been up to her eyeballs working on the sheepdog rescue picnic event and they had their annual spring fundraiser last weekend (more on that later) and she just couldn’t think about anything else. I’m surprised she had time to feed us.

Wilson: Gosh, that would have been totally tragic, wouldn’t it? Since I moved here nearly six months ago, she’s been on this “the sheepdog has got to lose weight” quest. I’m beginning to think I’m going to whittle away to just a small pile of fur.

Elsa: Ha…that’s not likely. Even though you’re nice and trim now, you’re NEVER gonna be a small pile of anything. But you’re right, you have slimmed down nicely and are probably at the idea weight now. Mom took you in for a groom job and Miss Sydney did a pawsome job showing off your thin profile for a cool summer look. Although I think you may have a case in Canine Court that Mom may have deceived you with that whole “wanna go for a ride” line.

Legal case meme

Wilson:  I’m a bit reluctant to pursue legal action at this time but will file this away for future reference. Right now, I’m feeling a bit naked, but with it being so hot this week, it is kind of nice to feel the cool tile on my belly for a change. And, getting rid of all that hair has had a bonus effect-I’m even speedier than usual. Watch out squirrels, I’m primed and ready for you.

Wilson groom

Elsa: About that…you need to chill out on the whole “death to squirrels” thing. Mom ain’t as flexible and young as she used to be and you wouldn’t want to break her now, would you? I mean…who’d feed us you then? You think you’re slim now, just wait if she’s hurt and can’t hobble around easily. I guarantee we’ll both get slim and that will be very uncool. I mean, Ninjas are lithe and svelte but hunger isn’t part of that equation, got it House Pony?

Wilson: Sorry, I just lose my mind whenever I see them and instinct takes over. I’ll try to do better.

Elsa: Instinct? What’s instinctive about that, bozo? You’re a herding dog, not a hunter.

Wilson: Hmm, good point. Like I said, I kind of lose my mind and forget my DNA.

Elsa: Well you better remember because if I miss any meals because Mom is laid up…there will be some consequences, got it, Dude?

Wilson: I’ll keep that in mind. So let’s see what we parts of Nature we can share this week, shall we?

Elsa: Works for me. With Mom being so focused on the rescue, her picture taking took a bit of a nosedive but I think there are a few pics we can share. I know when she went to pick you up from your grooming appointment, she walked you around before returning home and you guys came across a hawk near the groomer’s shop.

Hawk

Hawk

Wilson: That’s right! I couldn’t figure out what he was doing until Mum told me he’d just sat down for a mid-afternoon snack.

Elsa: Egad…you mean…aww, poor bunny. I guess the circle of life is as much a part of Nature as are pretty flowers.

Wilson: True enough. And because it’s been so bloody hot lately, we’re going to take another opportunity to post an important PSA. Again. Yesterday afternoon when Mum needed to mail something at the Post Office shortly after lunch hour, she said she saw around a dozen dogs being walked at mid-day. And, get this…3 of them were black dogs! Goodness gracious. People need to understand our paws can get blistered in those hot temps. Please walk us either early before it heats up or late in the evening when the temps have cooled down. If you can’t walk on the sidewalk in your bare feet, you shouldn’t expect us to…that’s all I’m going to say about that. We’re reposting this graphic and hope people will wake up and stop torturing us.

Summer temp

Elsa: Oh jeez…the stupidity of some uprights is just downright amazing. And not in a good way. I suspect we’ll need to bark this repeatedly because humans just aren’t very smart at times and often don’t think of how they are harming us.

Wilson: Well hope springs eternal, right? Mum did find a couple of pretty flowers this week. Good thing she took a photo of this peony because it’s through blooming now. It sure smelled wonderful. Mum calls peonies the queen of the garden.

Peony

Elsa: Yeah, she pretty much goes gah-gah when they bloom and this was a pretty exceptional year for peonies. Everyone who walks past our garden stops and comments on how gorgeous they are.

Wilson: Mum also found a patch of Spiderwort blooming in a secluded garden we walk past every day. Isn’t that purple lovely?

Spiderwort flower

Elsa: It sure is pretty but I was more focused on the fact there had been a bunny in that spot. I picked up it’s scent right away and Mom had a hard time convincing me we needed to continue on.

Wilson: So THAT’s what bunnies smell like, eh? I’ve seen them a few times but never focused on their scent before. I’ll have to keep my nose primed for future encounters. Mum says it’s been a banner year for them and constantly checks on her strawberry plant to make sure they don’t help themselves to it. They managed to snarf one berry a couple of days ago but she harvested the last one and it was big, juicy one at that. But then she got really excited about the potted tomatoes. Both of them are producing fruit and she squealed with delight. This one is a cherry tomato variety she’s planted in the previous years and said it’s a good producer. I can hardly wait to taste it.

Tomato

Elsa: Blech…trust me, you ain’t gonna like the taste of tomatoes.

Wilson: Why not, I like veggies. Not everything is about slabs of organ meat though I don’t mind that either.

Elsa: Oh, I don’t know…there’s something about the acid that I don’t favor or their tiny little seeds. Mom goes bonkers, popping them like candy. Sorry, I just don’t see the allure.

Wilson: Well I heard that tomatoes contain antioxidants like lycopene and beta-carotene which can help protect cells and can fight off free radicals.

Elsa: What the heck are free radicals? Sounds like a political thing and you know we’re not supposed to go down that path.

Wilson: Silly sister, free radicals can cause oxidative stress, and may play a role in the development of chronic conditions like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.

Elsa: Meh…give me some calf liver any day. Not only does it taste amazing, organ meat is a nutritious addition to a dog’s diet rich in nutrients that are essential for a dog’s health because it contains protein for muscle growth, tissue repair, and immune function; vitamins: A, B, D, and E; and minerals like copper, iron, phosphorus, selenium, and zinc as well as f

Wilson: Well you won’t see me pass meat up but I may see what this tomato thing tastes like once they get a bit bigger.

Elsa: Suit yourself. Anyway, I thought you might want to share a few pics from the sheepdog picnic. The weather in Elizabeth called for thunderstorms and several people didn’t show up but it looked like there was still a decent turnout and everyone including the uprights had a great time. Mom said it ended just before a thunderstorm rolled in and dumped some rain on the dry landscape.

Wilson: Yes, it was a successful event and everyone was very happy to learn the state finally approved our rescue. Woof, woof! We’re legit now and are looking forward to saving good sheepdogs who need new homes like I did. It’s been a long and challenging process but the Rocky Mountain Old English Sheepdog Rescue is now officially approved with the State of Colorado.

Logo

Sheepdog picnic

Grooming demoElsa: Nice! Say, isn’t that your Miss Sydney sharing grooming tips in a demonstration on show dog, Conner?

Wilson: Indeed it is. She’s very nice and quite knowledgeable about how to groom us sheepdogs. And look how much fun people and dogs had under some of the tents.

OES picnic

Sheepdog picnic

Elsa: I heard there was lots of tasty food for people.

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Wilson: Oh quite. Lots of great food and lots of fabulous gift baskets. We’re waiting for the totals but I’d say the final results were good.

Elsa: Outstanding. Guess I don’t mind that Mom has been so busy when I see so many happy sheepdogs living their best lives.

Wilson: Right…when you put it like that, all the hard work really paid off. Well that’s it this week. We hope you have a great weekend and a good Father’s Day celebration.

Nature Friday

Live, love, bark! 🐾

Nature Friday ~ May 24, 2024

~ Tails Around the Ranch ~ 51 Comments

Nature FridayHowdy and welcome to this week’s edition of Nature Friday where we join those cute fur kids, Rosy and Sunny from Adventures of the LLB Gang. Don’t forget to see what others have shared from around .

Elsa here to share some interesting  flora and fauna photos this week. It’s been a lovely spring  week with mild temps and even one day with a nice rain shower. Everything has turned green, especially the weeds which seemed to pop up overnight. This been a good year for dandelions and the much loathed bindweed, much to Mom’s chagrin. But enough fussing over that, let’s see what the House Pony has curated for us, shall we?

Wilson: Thanks, Ninja and hello mates…have we got some lovelies for you this week. The Peonies have started blooming and boy are they something else. Mum especially likes this red one and I noticed that even you took time to stop and smell them.

Peonies Peonies

Elsa: Well you’re always yammering on about how great it is to sniff flowers and I will concede these peonies are pretty fragrant. Plus they’re just so doggone pretty.

Wilson: You’re right about that. Peonies and irises this week have been quite something to behold. These two I’m happy to report are from our own garden. Mum really is fond of dark irises and said the first image didn’t bloom last year that she could recall so when she saw it, she was more than chuffed.

Irises

Irises

Elsa: Mom definitely loves her irises. She mentioned that she’s planning on a visit to the Iris Farm this weekend and will likely take at least a thousand photos of them one last time as this is the last year the Iris Farm will be open. After 35 years, owner ‘Iris Bob’ will be retiring. We’ve shared this video before, but are sharing it again for your viewing pleasure. These gorgeous three acres have been such a wonderful place to walk through and the most remarkable aspect of it has been seeing such a large private space near the heart of the city.

Wilson: Mum told me all of her irises came from the Iris Farm except the one she brought from her old house over 22 years ago.

Elsa: Yeah, it’ll probably be somewhat emotional for her since she has visited the farm so many times over the years. But enough of the gooey nostalgia, how’s about you share what else we’ve saw on our separate walks.

Wilson: Right-o. We’ve noted it’s been an exceptional year for allium bulbs. Mum found a gigantic one in bloom and even captured a bee noshing on it. She wouldn’t let me get near it because I tend to try to catch bees. Mark my words, I’m ‘this’ close to catching one.

Allium

Elsa: You bonehead…I told you last week you do not want to play Venus Flytrap with these guys. They will mess you up but good and your nose is already big enough. Jeez, what is wrong with you?

Wilson: Oops, I forgot your sage advice you told me last week. I’ll try to do better, but with their buzzing noise, I just can’t help myself.

Elsa: {shaking her head} Well, don’t come yelping to me when you get stung and your face swells up like a balloon. Trust me…you ain’t gonna like it one bit. That’s all I’m gonna say about that.

Wilson: I’ll try to be better. We probably ought to move along on this week’s garden tour. Mum noticed this striking Heuchera plant with its yellow-green leaves and striking dark red veining. Also known as Coral Bells or Alumroot, this beauty looked amazing in a shaded garden we pass on our daily walks. Its many species are all native to North America (except for Heuchera Sichotensis, which is native to the Russian Far East). This low-growing, evergreen comes in multiple colors, and is fairly easy to grow and do well in semi-sunny or shady conditions. Deadheading them promotes subsequent blooming. Another bonus to planting this lovely perennial is it’s deer resistant.

Heuchera

Elsa: That’s so different from the green ones we have in our garden but I’ll give it to you for finding it. Those red veins are really something else. You’re developing into quite the plant discoverer of interesting, if I do say so myself.

Wilson: Why thank you, Ninja. I appreciate that. I’m growing more and more comfortable with the city and can concentrate better on sniffing out things. Speaking of interesting plants, check out this plant called Iris Pseudacorus (sometimes called yellow iris flag, or water flag) when mom wandered over to Sloan’s Lake. It’s often considered an invasive, aquatic plant where it’s not native. Mum had never seen them at the lake before and only saw 3 or 4 plants before she looked them up to see what they were.

Yellow iris

Elsa: That pop of yellow must have surprised Mom since the water was kinda murky looking. But the biggest surprise she saw were these American White Pelicans, who apparently are tourists moving through as they make their way from various parts of North America southward to California and Mexico. You think they have valid fishing licenses which are required to fish the lake? Still they were very cool to watch and despite being fairly good-sized birds, they were quite graceful after one of them decided that Mom was getting just a bit too close for comfort and took flight. They rest of them took their cue from the leader and left shortly thereafter. Those black tipped wings must be exceptional on both take-offs and landings. Did you know a group of pelicans is called a pod?

Pelicans

Pelicans

Wilson: Wow, that’s a fascinating fact-I did not know that. Golly, I wish I could have seen them. I’m starting to be aware of birds around the neighborhood and keep hoping I can become friends with them.

Elsa: Oh sure, just like you want to be friends with squirrels? Umm, I’m gonna say that’s probably a hard no in the bird world. It’s quite likely squirrels have been besmirching your name to get even with you trying to catch the little hoodlums.

Wilson: Harumph…I’m not a bad sort; I’m actually quite friendly, much like this last plant whose blooms look like loads of smiles.

Panseys

Elsa: {giggling} Smiles indeed with squinty little eyes. Hahaha. I gotta admit, Pony…you’ve outdone yourself this week.

Wilson: Thanks Ninja. I’m starting to get this nature thing down. Well that’s it from us. We all hope you have a smashing good holiday weekend. Stay safe and don’t forget to stop and smell the peonies.

Elsa: You got it big guy. Have a pawsome weekend.

Live, love, bark! 🐾

Nature Friday ~ April 5, 2024

~ Tails Around the Ranch ~ 42 Comments

Elsa on sofaHappy first Friday of April peeps…it’s time for another Nature Friday post. Well spring continues to do spring things…you know…like dump tons of snow on the Northeast, bring 70’s and 80’sF to the central portion of the country with higher  temps in gulf states with buckets of moisture to the West Coast. Good golly, it seems like Mother Nature is truly cheesed off. As we typically do on Friday’s, we’re joining our pals at Adventures of the LLB Gang. Be sure to click on the highlighted link to see what other posts were shared.

Elsa: So I finally was released from vet care yesterday by receiving a clean bill of health. They removed my stitches and pronounced me fully healed from a diagnosed UTI, femoral surgery and I received a good report on the histogram of the removed cyst (it was benign but Mom was told it could come back so I guess they’ll monitor it down the road). While the folks at this vet clinic are super nice, I told them I hope to never see them again…any time soon.

Vet office
Sorry about the sun flare-the clinic faces south and it’s been very sunny here

Wilson: That’s jolly good news, Ninja. Congratulations. I’m sure those vet folks will miss seeing you. Mum told me they always enjoyed you coming in because you were a great patient.

Elsa:  They probably enjoyed seeing Mom and her credit card more than me. But now that I think of it, they were quite nice to me and gave me terrific ear rubs…even when I was shaking with fear at their fancy posh office. There’s just no way to disguise the fact that office visits to the vet can be very traumatic. From the first time I arrived with the femoral fracture to the dental procedure…it was doggone scary. But being the Zen Ninja I am, I handled it with great aplomb and dignity.

Wilson: Don’t sell yourself short. Everyone I encounter always says how lucky I am to have you as a sister. And despite the fact I get grumpy sometimes with you because you ofen hog all of Mum’s attention, you do make her smile a lot. Like all those times this past week where you lazed away on the sofa despite the no dogs on furniture rule. She laughed out loud. You didn’t even pretend to be sorry for disobeying both Mum and the vet’s specific instructions to not jump while your shoulder was healing. Tsk, tsk…naughty girl.

Elsa, epilepsy

Elsa: Do I look like I care?

Wilson: Umm, good point. Still, I can’t help wondering why I get yelled at whenever I get up on the sofa.

Elsa: Well, you’re you and I’m me. There are different rules for Ninjas versus House Ponies. The sooner you realize that, the better we’ll all be.

Wilson: {somewhat dejected} Whatever happened to equality for all?

Elsa: {jumping up on the sofa as Mom types} You want  equality? You need to look up it on page 391 of Mom’s  Webster’s dictionary.

Wilson: {frowning} Umm, perhaps instead we should share some of this week’s nature images.

Elsa: Whatever cranks your handle. Mom has been walking past this little tree/shrub for months now and wondered what it was. According to her plant app, it was identified as an American Pussy Willow but she was somewhat dubious since it’s not known to be found in Colorado. Still, it’s pretty cool and Mom liked it.

Pussy willow

Wilson: Whoa…look at those silky catkins! I guess they start blooming on the bare stems before the leaves appear, and provide a wonderful source of pollen for native bees early in the season.

Elsa: Supposedly the male and female flowers are produced on separate plants yet both plants have flowers. There was only the one there so Mom wasn’t sure if it was male or female. While the male plant produces pollen, both sexes produce nectar and the flowers of the male plant produce those nubby catkins that are used in flower arrangements.

Pussy willows

Wilson: Trust me I checked to see what it smelled like but apparently no one has left any clues about it.

Elsa: Of course you smelled it. Sheesh, I am still of the opinion you’re part Bloodhound. Emphasis on the hound part.

Wilson: {eyes looking left and right, mind mulling over what was just said} Wait, is that some kind of put down because I’m 100% Old English Sheepdog.

Elsa: Hey, you sniff more that your normal English fur ball. You know I just call ’em like I see ’em.

Wilson: Rest assured, I am NOT a hound, blood or otherwise. I’m part of the magnificent group of herding dogs and…

Elsa: Save it dog breath. You try herding me, I’ll show you what Poodles do, ok?

The Mom: Ok you two, no more flexing of breed egos. Just get on with sharing nature this week, ‘kay?

Elsa and Wilson: {in unison and two part harmony} Yes Mom/Mum.

The Mom: {smiling} Whew, that’s better.

Elsa: He started it, Mom.

Wilson: Did not, you started it.

The Mom: Enough guys. Let’s. move. on! I’m sure there are a few more spring photos we can share.

Elsa: Okay, okay…yeesh…so cranky on a Friday. Anywho…the recent snow storms didn’t seem to have too negative of an impact on the emerging tulips, although apparently the moisture produced a by-product plant. Who know snow would cause Pringles containers to bloom? That’s a new one on me. And yes, we disposed of it. {head shaking} Man, what is wrong with uprights?

Tulips

Wilson: {with stiffened back and shaking head} Unforgivable, I say! At least none of those containers grew with these tulips. Talk about a cheerful bunch.

Tulips Elsa: You’re so right there, Pony. Some people are just beasts.

Wilson: You can say that again. I know it really upsets Mum when we’re out on our constitutionals. She gets very sad seeing trash. Weeds are bad enough but litter is simple unforgivable.

Elsa: We started to see a few of the flowering trees emerging from their winter snooze. Check out this type of cherry tree in bloom. The bees acted like they were having a kegger, buzzing and noshing on all the nectar.

Cherry Blossoms

 

Wilson: Hmm, what’s a kegger? Sounds like some decidedly American expression. There were a bunch of bees in this ornamental pear as well. It sure was quite the sight against a Colorado bluebird sky.

Ornamental pear

Elsa: It’s going to be another warm day (sorry Northeast peeps). We’re under a Red Flag warning for high winds with extremely low humidity today for much of the state. Winds could reach 75 mph later this morning so we better get cracking and batten down the hatches. Hopefully tomorrow’s forecast for moisture will materialize. And here I just got a bath this week. Ugh.

Wilson: Never fear, sister…I’ll keep you well anchored on the ground. Between me and Mum, you have nothing to fear about blowing away.

The Mom: Umm, I’m sure that was a compliment.

Wilson: Of course it was, Mum.

Elsa: {interrupting} Sounds like the House Pony is saying you’re on the chubby side, Mom. {snickering}.

Wilson: Not at all, dear sister; I was just trying to alleviate any fears you may have about blowing away.

Elsa: There you go, ruining another easy softball I pitched to you. What the dog? Whatever…we hope that whatever Nature dishes out this weekend, you stay safe and are able to ‘enjoy’  whatever she delivers your way. Have a great weekend everyone.

Wilson: Right, enjoy your weekend…even if you’re sipping a nice cuppa with a good book from the sofa watching the snow fly in case you’re not interested in shoveling or sloshing around in it. Stay safe.

Nature Friday

Live, love, bark! 🐾

World Purple Day ~ March 26, 2024

~ Tails Around the Ranch ~ 49 Comments

Epilepsy

We don’t normally post on Tuesday’s but this year it seemed more important than ever to merit posting on a topic that is near and dear to my heart. Today we join our friends, Dorothy Wills-Raftery, the award-winning author, K9 Epilepsy Awareness Ambassador, and creator of the Five Sibes™️ blog along with CEO Olivia from Knotty Toys for Dogs  for this year’s annual celebration of Purple Day,® a global grassroots event created to increase epilepsy awareness throughout the world to dispel many of the common myths and fears associated with this neurological disorder. We can’t begin to thank Dorothy and Olivia enough for their ongoing advocacy, shared information and tips relating to seizures and epilepsy.

Purple Day® was created to reduce social stigmas many encounter while providing valuable assurance and resources to all those living with epilepsy by letting them know that they are not alone.  Purple Day® occurs every March 26 and honors all epi-warriors, be they 2 or 4-legged. Once again, we proudly support this event by wearing purple. As many of you know, Elsa, was diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy shortly after she was rescued in 2016 as a puppy mill survivor with unknown lineage, (her story can be read here). Supporting epilepsy awareness and education has become a no-brainer for me and I continue to be committed to learning as much as possible about this condition, how to effectively manage it while providing a safe and loving home for this special dog by bringing attention to the condition. We are truly fortunate that despite some of the recent stressors she’s experienced that could trigger a seizure, my favorite ‘Ninja’ {knock on wood} has been mostly seizure-free of late.

Elsa
You woke me up for this?

So again for this year’s “Purple Day®” event you are invited to join us by wearing purple for everyone who is impacted by seizures and epilepsy. Please check out the Epilepsy Foundation’s website for useful information for people and pets who experience seizures with a worldwide resource database can be found here. 

Word Cloud

Live, love, bark! ❤︎

Nature Friday ~ March 15, 2024

~ Tails Around the Ranch ~ 60 Comments

ElsaIt’s Friday and that means it’s time for me and the ‘New Guy’ to share a few slices of spring from around our ‘Hood with our hosts from Adventures of the LLB Gang. Be sure to click on the link to see what other posts were shared. Yeah, I’m a sell-out and let Mom put a stupid hat on me. I gave her a nice big fat raspberry to show her what I thought about the whole thing.

Elsa: Welcome to the St. Patrick’s Day edition of Nature Friday. I think you all understand how I feel about dressing up so we’ll leave it at that.

Wilson: Oh come on, dress up is fun! There are treats involved. I LOVE treats.

Wilson

Elsa: You would, dog breath. We’ve got lots of spring pics to share so let’s not dally with mindless chatter, ‘kay?

Wilson:  Right! Well spring is definitely starting to show up in our neighborhood. Birds are arriving and the spring bulbs are starting to grow in earnest. I had to check out these hyacinths. At first I thought they might have a tasty morsel in them but then realized that was only an illusion. I think their appearance must be related to the whole fabricated AI thingy. As in ‘not the real deal.’ I was expecting something yummy in the middle. Imagine my disappointment.

Spring bulbs

Elsa: Jeez, dude, not everything is about food!

Wilson: Wait, it’s not? What the…

Elsa: You may think you’re some great hunter of food, but let me tell ya, that’s bunk. As a dignified Standard Poodle, I refuse to be a hunter around the Ranch. I am far too regal to have to search for food.

Wilson: Hey, don’t knock it until you try it. I think I’m a pretty pawsome hunter. Auntie Cheryl got us each a snuffle mat and I’m getting really good at being a real life hunter of goodies. Just look at that buried nose!

Wilson-snuffle mat

Elsa: Oh for crying out loud…you’re an embarrassment to civilized dogs everywhere.

Wilson: What?! It was fun finding all the goodies. But I must say, it wore me out. Hunting is exhausting.

Wilson

Elsa: I just make sure the forewoman brings me my treats…I am NOT in the hunter/gatherer business. I have a kingdom to rule and as such can’t be bothered with such nonsense.

Wilson: Well I for one, think you should try it, you just might like it.

Elsa: Highly unlikely. Besides, why would I work for food when my subjects Mom will provide it without any interference from me {gasping at the mere thought of such routine plebeian activity}.

Elsa

Wilson: Whatever. I told Mum I was all in…

Elsa: {interrupting} Of course you’re all in…food never escapes you. And you seem to think everything is food.

Wilson: Not true, I mean I didn’t try to eat these blue grape hyacinths.

Grape Hyacinths

Elsa: Well maybe the bees gathering nectar on them might have dissuaded you?

Wilson: Well, that did factor in my thought process. That and Mum hollering “LEAVE IT!” I’m catching on to what that  command means. She sure says it a lot.

Elsa: {eyes rolling} Well if you didn’t view everything as nourishment, maybe she wouldn’t have to yell at you.

Wilson: She told me it was a good way for me to show off some self control. I’m pretty good most of the time…well except for when I hear the dog next door. That guy really winds me up behind the fence.

Elsa: Which is exactly why Mom is trying to make you ‘leave it’ whenever you’re in the dog run. I mean, you’ve got to be 15 shades of stupid to race the length of the run barking, snarling at him.

Wilson: He really pushes my button but I’ll try to be better about the whole self control thing. I mean, when I’m good, Mum rewards me with things that I enjoy very much. Like taking me to Sloan’s Lake earlier this week. I enjoyed the long walk and sniffing things out although there were a few weird things. Didn’t I pose nicely at the lake?

Wilson

But what’s up with some of the yard art around here? We didn’t have anything like that back in Missouri. Well we did, but they didn’t have horns and they made grunting sounds. There are some very odd humans who live in this neighborhood.

Yard art

Elsa: You’ll get no arguments from me on that subject.  I probably would have challenged that guy if I’d been along on that walk.

Wilson: Well he was ok as far as boars go, but just not what I expected to find in the city. Mostly I thought he was more of a ‘bore,’ than an actual boar.

Elsa: Hahaha, Wilson made a funny, Mom.

Wilson: Ahem…I think we have a few other spring pics to share.

Elsa: Oh yeah, sorry I got carried away. So spring in the Rocky Mountains always has its challenges. Crummy soil, intense sun, and a wide range of temperatures but DANG! I sure wasn’t prepared for this type of Spring. What the dog?!

Spring snow

Wilson: I know, right?! I nearly tipped over trying to balance pee in the piles of snow.

Elsa: Ha…if it’s sympathy you want, look it up in the dictionary, Bucko. Try squatting in a foot of snow, dude. Brrrr.

Wilson: The snow was very heavy and broke some branches  that Mum will have to deal with, once she can get back in that corner.

Broken trees

Broken trees

Elsa: Mom tried to shake off the snow a few times, but there were just some areas she couldn’t reach. She noticed that despite the snow, there were a few signs of spring emerging and was very grateful the trees hadn’t leafed out yet-the damage would have been much worse. The good news was there was a LOT of moisture from this storm that will help the landscape.

Spring snow

Wilson: That tree shades my favorite spot to pee and I wasn’t quite prepared for clumps to come falling down on me. But like many things, I know just how to react. Shake it off and take a nap. It’s the best way to deal with things Nature throws at you.

Wilson

Elsa: Hmmm, I’d have figured you would have said, eat a treat to soothe being startled but a nap does sound like a good idea.

Wilson: Well, a nap was my second choice.

Elsa: Of course it was. Anyway, we’re all snug as bug, the power stayed on (unlike for 11,000 peeps) and Mom made sure we were entertained, happy and didn’t go stir crazy.

Wilson: Yeah, she’s the best. I hope the snuffle mat comes out again soon, but I think all that super heavy, wet snow is supposed to melt in the warmer temps this weekend so walks will resume. We hope you have a safe and fun filled St. Patrick’s Day weekend-enjoy the green. I’m looking forward to more broccoli but no green Guinness. Even Mum doesn’t like that beer. Have a bonnie good weekend and “may the road rise up to meet you; may the wind be always at your back.” Happy St. Patrick’s Day from all of us at the Ranch.

Elsa: What he said. Just make sure you explore nature in your neck of the woods. You may be surprised with what you’ll encounter.

Nature FridayLive, love bark! ☘️

Monday Musings ~ March 4, 2024

~ Tails Around the Ranch ~ 64 Comments

Today’s post is an homage to Sock Monkey Day which occured over the weekend. Speaking of weekends, where the heck did it go? Most of mine was all about getting my taxes done (don’t ask, it was 5 hours I’ll never get back at one of those first come, first serve tax prep places for seniors that don’t make appointments-I even arrived 2 hours before they opened, and it still took all morning), today’s Monday pic pretty much describes how I feel. Monday

At least the “Pony” humored me (notice Elsa also left her trademark calling card by removing an ear). Here’s hoping Monday treats you well and you don’t suck at poetry.

Sock Monkey

Live, love, bark! 🐾

 

Nature Friday ~ March 1, 2024

~ Tails Around the Ranch ~ 54 Comments

It’s time for another Nature Friday post. Holy canine…it may be the first of March already but it won’t stop us from joining our pals at Adventures of the LLB Gang. Be sure to click on the highlighted link to see what other posts were shared.

Elsa on sofaElsa: 🎶 humming and singing 🎶  Here comes the sun, doo-doo-doo-doo…here comes the sun, 🎶 and…oh, Hiya. It’s me, Elsa…just chillaxing on the sofa this morning…

Wilson: {interrupting} Blimey, how come you are allowed to get up on the sofa and Mum always makes me get down?

Elsa: It’s simple, dog breath, I. am. me. and I’m a Ninja. I think they’re called special rights and I was grandfathered in. You’re just the new guy. You have to earn those privileges though I’m certain that ain’t happening any time soon…not only are you the new guy but you’re a gigantic, new guy. There are different rules for the likes of you.

Wilson: I say, that doesn’t seem fair at all. I’m gonna go ask Mum for a clarification. {gallops into other room hollering} Oh Mum…how come Elsa gets to get up on the sofa and I don’t?

The Mom: ELSA!!  Get down…NOW! You’re not supposed to be (a) jumping up while you’re still recovering and (b) you’re not supposed to get up on the furniture. Period.

Elsa: Wait, I’m not supposed to get up on the furniture? When did that rule go into effect.

The Mom: Remember, I’m trying to train Wilson from getting up on the furniture and decided it was better to make the sofa and my bed off limits to both of you.

Elsa: Well that’s just dumb. I never agreed to that and besides, I’m feeling pretty good recovery wise so there’s no need to not let me get up on the sofa.

The Mom: Beg to differ missy; I’m the boss. The current rule in place is that no dog shall be allowed on the furniture.

Elsa: {grumbling} Well color me unhappy about that rule. {turning toward Wilson} Way to go spoiling things, blabbermouth.

Wilson: W-h-a-t?? I just asked for clarification with the hope of fairness.

Elsa: Considering I am recovering because of you, I might add, I should be allowed special privileges. Way to put the kibosh on my freedoms, fur ball. Harrumph!

Wilson: {contrite} Sorry, didn’t mean to get you in trouble. So shall we soldier on and share some views of Mother Nature from around our neighborhood? I say…we’ve experienced the gamut of weather and nature this week.

Elsa: No kidding. First there was the Snow Moon…Mom of course was too lazy didn’t grab her big camera [in fairness, the battery needed to be charged so I’ll forgive her this time] and she used her cell phone as it was setting early in the morning. This was the best she could do given the limitations of the phone camera and tall trees blocking our view.

Snow moon

Wilson: I contemplated howling at it but then thought better of it. Mum keeps telling me I’m not supposed to bark in the house and I’m working hard on learning better self-control behavior now that I’ve found my voice.

Elsa: Apart from the blaring decibels, you’re not a wolf, new guy.

Wilson:  Well there is that too. And as the new guy, can I just say the weather around here sure does a lot of vacillating. One minute it’s lovely and warm and the next it’s snowy and cold. The ducks didn’t seem to mind but let’s just say I prefer it less wet and chilly.

Snowy pond

Elsa: Jeez, you’re such a wuss! It’s bracing and refreshing.

Elsa in snow

Wilson: {Shivering} To each his own, eh? But the day after the snow squall, Mum and I noticed elements of spring trying to emerge. We saw more blooming bulbs. These little lovelies were quite colorful and I for one, love their stripes.

Crocuses

Elsa: Those are crocuses. They’re often the first of the spring bulbs to bloom. Here’s a solid purple version and a pic with  another daffodil and crocus.

Crocuses

Daffodil & crocuses

Wilson: I say, those are quite grand! They didn’t seem to be any worse for the wear after yet another snow storm arrived. It seems like every other day that white stuff falls around here.

Snow

Elsa: Boy do you have a lot to learn about gardening in the Mile High City. If you don’t like the weather, just wait ten minutes. Snow doesn’t seem to bother these guys-I’ve seen them completely buried and yet they’ll still bloom. Look at these reticulated irises and the first of the baby blue grape hyacinths. Mom loves them both and always shouts when she catches first glimpses of those hyacinths.

Wilson: I know! We were just returning from a long walk when she caught sight of something blue and tiny before we got to the gate. I was worried by those squeals and thought I had to protect her.

Irises

Grape hyacinths

Elsa: She was likely more worried that your gigantic ‘hooves’ would squash them. You do tend to plow through stuff rather unceremoniously.

Wilson: I beg your pardon…I’m as delicate stepping about as any sheepdog.

Elsa: I rest my case, Big Foot.

Wilson: {disappointed at the criticism} I might be large but I do have feelings and now you’ve gone and hurt them.

Elsa: Oh please…you’re a big oaf…own it dude.

Wilson: I’m sure I’ll recover…with the proper treat to console my bruised feelings.

Elsa: {eyes rolling} Oh brother. Never fear, the treats will continue to flow your way, for whatever reason. Especially when you go to Grandpa’s house next week. I swear the whole family spoils you rotten. I don’t get it.

Wilson: What’s not to get, I’m a handsome bloke who loves people and they love me.

Elsa: Hmm, is that so? I’m a bit selective although I really do love people. I just make them earn my attention without having to flaunt it.

Wilson: Trust me on this, sister…you catch more flies with a wiggly bum and soft puppy eyes. I mean not many people can resist this face.

Wilson

Elsa: {eyes rolling at the shameless pose} If you say so. We hope you have a great weekend and hope Nature delivers more early signs of spring. Make sure you get outside to enjoy it and have a great weekend.

Nature Friday

Live, love, bark! 🐾

 

Nature Friday ~ February 23, 2024

~ Tails Around the Ranch ~ 74 Comments

Nature Friday

Hey there sports fans…welcome to this week’s edition of Yippee-Ki-Yay, Mother Nature…

ELSA!!!!

Elsa: What?!

The Mom: Today is Nature Friday and you well know it.

Elsa: Umm, erm…sorry. {Spoken in a dull monotone voice} Welcome to this week’s edition of Nature Friday where my little Pony of a brother and I share slices of nature and join our friends from over at Adventures of the LLB Gang. Click on the highlighted link to see what other posts were shared. There, you happy now?

The Mom: That’s better. Now get on with it and stop with going off the reservation. This is a G-rated blog.

Elsa: But Mom…I was just adding a bit of color commentary to start the post off…no harm, no foul.

The Mom: I said, there will not be colorful language like that before and I meant it!

Elsa: Ok, I get it. Why are you so grumpy today, I thought you were feeling better after last week’s reaction to the shingles vaccine.

The Mom: I feel fine, thank you very much. Boy that was some kind of reaction, wasn’t it? {Sarcastically} Can’t wait for the second round.  I’m just glad you guys nursed me back to health. Anyway, like I’ve said before, this is a family friendly blog and you can’t talk like that here. You wanna talk like that, go to Twitter.

Elsa: Yo, Mom, it’s “X” not Twitter.

The Mom:  Nonetheless…this blog is off limits to colloquialisms like that. Got it?

Elsa: Yes, I got it. Sheesh…

Wilson: Hey sorry, I’m late. I was eating breakfast. What did I miss?

Elsa: Mom is having a meltdown about my opening sentence. FYI, we have to dull it down for her tender sensibilities.

Wilson: Hmmm, ok…don’t see why that’s a problem but I’m the new guy so what do I know…don’t answer that.

Elsa: Oh never mind…let’s just get on with it. I got stuff to do today.

Wilson: Stuff? What are you doing later? Can I come, huh, can I?

Elsa: Ugh…little…or in your case, gigantic brothers…are such a pain.

The Mom: Be nice, Elsa. Wils is trying to fit in and you’re making it tough with an attitude like that. Why not show us what we saw this week, without the editorializing, okay?

Elsa: {Sigh} Fine. Now that she’s feeling better, Mom had to make a quick trip to visit my Grandpa’s. She says she never tires of the early morning sunrises. I myself am a bit fonder of sleeping in but whatever floats your boat, right?

Sunrise

Wilson: I didn’t mind, one whit. I mean, the early morning may appeal to humans visually but there are lots of wonderful sniffs a bloke can enjoy while they’re oohing and ahhing at the sunrise. I mean, who doesn’t love a bunny scent??

Elsa: Dude, you need to get a life. Bunny smells at Grandpa’s house is old news.

Wilson: Well it’s still interesting to me. The early morning dew brings out some great smells. Remember, I’m still learning about the flora and fauna in Colorado which is quite different from Missouri.

Elsa: We’re not holding the Missouri thing against you. But after you’ve visited as often as I have, you’ll get used to bunny smells. Maybe even the donkeys that live across the street from Grandpa’s house?

Wilson: Meh…those guys didn’t impress me…I am after all, used to seeing hoofed livestock. We had horses so seeing those guys was no big deal. The traffic however, I’m not sure I’ll ever get used to that.

Elsa: You’re getting better. Just remember to stay next to Mom and she’ll protect you.

Wilson: I’ll try, but blimey, the traffic is so noisy. I get frightened by vehicles.

Elsa: Stick with me kid, you’ll get used to them.

Wilson: I sure hope so.

Elsa: Trust me, you’ll be fine, it just may take a while. But I can promise you this with 100% certainty. Mom will never let anything hurt you. Got it?

Wilson: Thanks, that’s somewhat reassuring. I’ll try to remember that.

Elsa: You got this. The other sight that Mom never gets tired of seeing is the back side of Pikes Peak, particularly when it’s covered in snow on a clear day. You can find out more about this iconic Colorado view here.

Pikes Peak

Wilson: I’ve begun to notice small signs that Spring is impending. Looks like yellow is the color of the day. I think both of these yellow beauties are varieties of crocuses which are now beginning to bloom.

Spring bulbs

Spring bulbs

Elsa: Yeah, you’ll want to not get too close to this tree cholla cactus. It bites back. It’s starting to bloom as well. Mom thought this variety was Cylindropuntia imbricata ssp. imbricata.

Wilson: Stay away…right, got it.

Elsa: Well so much for the flora this week, but we do have a couple of pics of fauna. Mom attended the annual Rocky Mountain Old English Sheepdog Rescue board meeting and saw these guys at the placement director’s home. The rescue is getting closer to being certified with the state. Hurrah! Finally, something that’s your size.

Goats

Goats

Wilson: I know I’m supposed to do something around those guys but not sure just what exactly that is. Someone said something about herding. I just hope that involves food.

Elsa: Oh for heaven’s sake. Dip into your genetic pool, dude. Yes, you’re a herder (well technically you’re a drover but herding’s close enough). Jeez, do I have to teach you EVERYTHING?

Wilson: Well I’ve led a rather sheltered life but promise I’ll get up to speed soon. {gulp} I hope.

Elsa: Egad, you’re such a mental light-weight. Well, that’s it for this week. Got anything exciting going on? Mom said something about working on taxes but I’m not sure what means and frankly, Scarlet, I don’t really care.

Wilson: Umm, for the record my name is Wilson.

Elsa: I can see this socialization thing is gonna take time. Anyway, whatever you do, we hope you enjoy getting outside and checking out what Nature shares. Have a great weekend!

Wilson: Yes, right-o…a good weekend.

Elsa: Argh…there appears to be an echo these days around the Ranch. It may or may not get amusing. I wonder just how far I can push the envelope.

The Mom: Elsa…be nice.

Elsa: Drat…she wasn’t supposed to hear that last part. Anyway, we sincerely hope the last weekend of February is downright wagnificent! Come on down, Spring…we’re waiting with bated breath on your arrival.

Live, love, bark! 🐾

Nature Friday ~ February 9, 2024

~ Tails Around the Ranch ~ 46 Comments

We survived last week’s snowstorm and are waiting for the arrival of the next one sometime this weekend, or so they say. Hiya, Elsa here. As always we’re joining our friends from Adventures of the LLB Gang. Click on the link to see what other posts have been shared.

Elsa, surgeryI’m still recovering from surgery but am doing well actually. Thank you all for your kind get well and recovery wishes.They mean the world to me and Mom.

Lots of you said I should let the foster dog pony get in on the action with posting so without further adieu, here’s the newest Ranch Hand and I’ll judge let him give you his perspective from around the ‘Hood. Hope I haven’t made a mistake by letting him in on today’s post. This whole foster biz seems to have made him a bit anxious and I don’t wanna spin him into a tizzy. And now, live from the corral…I present…the Pony!

Wilson

Wilson: Umm, don’t mean to get off on the wrong paw with you or your readers, but my name is now Wilson.

Elsa: You say tomato, I say tomahto. Anywho…you need to show them you’re a real live Ranch Hand before your introduction is official.

Wilson: Oh, you mean the one with the hat?

Elsa: {Gasp} Look, you big galute…that’s not a just hat-that’s a Stetson and it’s legendary in the West. You need to forget everything you knew about Missouri…you’re a Colorado doggie these days.

Wilson, hat

Wilson: {in a snooty British voice} I. beg. your. pardon. You must understand, I’m new to this blogging thing but will do my utter best to try and contribute in a meaningful manner.

Elsa: Oh puleez…what’s with you British guys and your high falutin talk? Save it for another time, dog breath.

Wilson: Well blimey…so sorry. I’ll share a pic of me out in the snow after getting groomed last week. How’s that?

Wilson-pointing
Pointer or sheepdog?

Elsa: Save it, bucko. I can see this is going take some time and energy getting you familiar with how things work around here.

Wilson: {somewhat miffed} Right-o. Well, like you mentioned before, we received some snow. It was heavy and wet after an entire night of rain. It was quite crunchy trying to walk on it-I kept falling through.

Elsa: Well, if you weren’t such a chonker, you might not have fallen through. Now you know why Mom has you on a diet.

Wilson: Are you saying I’m overweight? I’d say all the grooming and removing of mats took a lot of excess weight off. See how trim I am now.

Elsa: {eyes rolling} Trust me, Mom will continue to keep the portions small for a while. Sure, she’ll say something like “it’s good for your joints” or some other ridiculous thing. Get used to it and be prepared to be hungry for a while.

Wilson: {frowning} Oh dear…I’m not sure I’ll be able to survive here. I do like my meals.

Elsa: Forget crumpets and tea, dude. You’ll get two small squares a day and Mom will walk your fat tush off right before she takes me out on my rehab walks. It’s going to be interesting between the two of you, as to who loses the most weight. {snicker}

Wilson: Oh dear…this IS going to be quite the adjustment. How in the world am I going to survive?

Elsa: Relax, you’ll never go completely hungry, Mom just wants to get your weight a bit more under control. She’s already had to resize your collar because it was getting too loose. And trust me, there will always be a treat (or two) around the Ranch. I’ll make sure you get a snack.

Wilson: Bravo! That’s right proper of you helping me adjust to this new lifestyle. I still miss my old family and packmates. You do know my old Mum unexpectedly passed away. I loved her so much but do love my new Mum now. Still it’s been quite the adjustment over this past month but I’m really trying hard to learn how to fit in.

Elsa: For the record, she’s MY MOM. But you’re doing ok so far (even if you caused my injury). Mom says you’re pretty smart and I promised her I wouldn’t hold a grudge. I realize you have a lot to learn. Mom explained to me that you grew up in a tiny little town and the city can be a rather intimidating reality. I mean, come on…you’re doing so much better on walks now from when you first arrived and you’re improving a bit each day. Before you know it, garbage trucks won’t even register in that big, fat head. Got any other pics of the snow? My readers want to see nature at her finest.

Wilson: {clearing throat} Right…it started out like most snowstorms but then it just kept snowing and snowing and snowing. It was pretty though and I found it bracing to run around outside in it.

Wilson: Here’s a view from the sofa that made my mind spin on the day after. It looks unlike any snow I’d ever seen before with that melting/freezing thing going on and with the sculpting wind. Looks like a lunar landscape a bit.

Snow

Elsa: Like you’d know about the lunar landscape, although it is the Chinese New Year this week. It was a weird storm, dumping 6-15 inches over the metro area after a night of rain-something we never get this time of year. But you know, things don’t seem any worse for wear for the bulbs, do they?

Spring bulbs

Wilson: They seem to be fine and most of the snow has gone now but we’re waiting for the next storm which may start later today and be a repeat of last weekend.

Elsa: Don’t hold your breath. One of the things you’ll learn about Colorado weather around here, it’s changes on a dime-and weather forecasters simply cannot be trusted to be accurate. As long as I still get to enjoy some snow cones, I’ll be happy. This was right after my staples came out. I felt like I earned it and Mom seemed to agree.

Snow cone

Wilson: I’ll keep that in mind. So can I share this little guy who I encountered on a walk? Mum’s eagle eyes spotted him, I totally missed him. I’m just learning about other critters; Mum refers to them as tree rats. I’m not a fan of them and have tried hard to run them down catch them. Not sure what to do if I’m able to catch one but Mum still won’t let me go after them.

Bunny

Elsa: Yeah, Mom is like that…she wants to protect you from potential problems with face to face meetings with wild animals. She also is extremely adverse to being turned into a human kite and since I’ve noticed you possess lightning quick reflexes, but will learn she’s not as easy as you think she’d be when she’s been lifted off her feet.

Wilson: I did surmise that. But I’m a crafty lad, you never know what I can do.

Elsa: Shush you big oaf, you don’t want to give up the element of surprise. Best that you keep your big trap shut. Moms of all stripes aren’t amused by the element of surprise so don’t wreck it by blabbing any moves in advance.

Wilson: {in a hushed voice} Oh right…will keep that in mind.

Elsa: Well that looks like we made it through without killing each other. Guess it wasn’t as bad as I thought it might be. Bravo me.

Wilson: Ahem…I did mention that I could be a sport here and hope you’ll give me another chance in the future.

Elsa: Let’s not get carried away. A lot depends on how I feel and whether or not my readers like your by-line. How about we just say…we’ll see.

Wilson: Roger that. So do I get to ask what everyone’s going to do this weekend. I heard something about some big football game. While we had them in Missouri, in Britain, we call it ‘soccer.’

Elsa: Trust me dude, around here the only sport that matters is hockey. You’ll learn that soon enough. Finally, we would be remiss if we didn’t wish everyone a safe and prosperous  Chinese New Year. Have a great weekend everyone.

Chinese New Year

Wilson: Oh yes, please do have a splendid weekend.

Elsa: Give it a rest, Pony.

Nature Friday

Live, love, bark! 🐾

Nature Friday ~ February 2, 2024

~ Tails Around the Ranch ~ 65 Comments

Elsa, surgeryHappy Groundhog Day. Elsa here. If you believe in the predictions of some chubby Pennsylvanian rodent, looks like that Gobbler Knob resident, Punxsutawney Phil, predicted an early spring this year. While I’m not convinced a groundhog can accurately predict Spring’s arrival, apparently this phenomena has been celebrated for ages. How did this custom originate, you ask? Well, I’m here to give you a bit of background on this silliness annual tradition. Diary records from as early as 1841 entry showed weather forecasts had been celebrated among families of German descent in Pennsylvania though most historians agree the custom began in the late 1800’s. According to Don Yoder,  former professor from University of Pennsylvania, he noted a Celtic connection and surmised this annual celebration had its roots in “ancient, undoubtedly prehistoric, weather lore.”

Guess it appears that Celtic people across Europe marked a 4-day period in early February, which is the midpoint between the Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox. Celts observed that Christians celebrated Candlemas (known as Imbolc), which coincided with Joseph and Mary’s presentation of Jesus at the Temple in Jerusalem. As ancient folk observed sun, stars and animal behavior and those observations influenced their farming practices. They came to the conclusion that the emergence of hibernating animals, coincided with seasonal weather forecasts. Similarly, German traditions observed that badgers or bears emerging from hibernation came around the same time as the arrival of spring. Pennsylvania German settlers apparently substituted the groundhog, which was endemic to the eastern and midwestern United States. Guess you use what you got to keep the myth going, eh? Now that you know the background, let’s move on and see what slices of nature arrived in the 303, shall we?

Welcome to the first Friday of February where we join our friends Rosy and Sunny for their Nature Friday blog hop. Be sure to click on the link to see what others have shared.

I dunno about you, but January seemed to go on forever, and makes you wonder why they do Dry January during such a long month?  Sorry, I’ve been out of commission lately, I’m recuperating from an injury that required surgery. Normally Mom keeps me buttoned up with a horrid satellite dish (aka cone) but she took that pic after I had eaten breakfast to make it easier on me and removes the cone so I don’t bang on walls while trying to locate my bowl. Man…I can’t wait to burn that thing! I’m not even getting Showtime.

Anyway…this week the weather has been almost spring-like with temps nearly 20F degrees warmer than average for this time of year (hmm, maybe that stupid rodent is on to something). The hyacinths in our garden began to wake up which actually surprised Mom. With the subzero temps in January, she didn’t think they’d wake up yet, but lo and behold…warmer temps seemed to coax these little squirts upward.

Spring bulbs

Mom also noticed some daffodils were farther along than we thought they should be. Now don’t go crazy…this isn’t some kind of atmospheric miracle, mind you. When you’re at a Mile High elevation-wise, you’re that much closer to the sun and that makes a huge difference over those near sea level.

Daffodils Daffodils

We’re noticing it’s getting lighter earlier in the morning and some of the recent sunrises have been pretty spectacular. There’s something about winter sunrises that always captivates Mom’s interest. She’s lucky I’m not supposed to walk very fast so she was able to capture this view before the red sky disappeared while waiting on me.

Sunrise

So the integration of the ‘pink-eyed pony’ who’s probably going to be my brother, has been slow going. We still get somewhat bent out of shape especially when I’m too close to my Mom [yo doofus…she was my Mom long before you arrived…so back  #@%$ off] but we’re trying our best. Well that’s not 100% accurate…it’s more like Mom is hyper focused on our proximity to avoid any more collisions or unpleasantness.

Last week Wilson went to the groomer after Mom spent 187 hours dematting his fur (trust me, that’s not much of an exaggeration either-that gallon bag was just from his ears and took almost 5 hours). The groomer said Mom made the job easier for her and Wilson was good getting spiffed up. I’ll admit, that boy does clean up nicely.

Mats

Wilson

Sure his fur is shorter than Mom would like, but it will grow out quickly. The groomer only needed to blend the length from where the mats were cut out. I’m just glad I didn’t have to lose any more fur than what the vet shaved off but Mom mentioned something about trimming up my paws. {Gasp} I hope that was just a rhetorical observation and not real. I’m slow moving right now and wouldn’t be able to escape quickly enough. I hate for my feet to be groomed.

So far, I haven’t decided if I’m going to let Wilson appear as a co-host on my Friday posts. The jury is still out on that one. What do you guys think? Should I let him or just keep this gig to myself? Let me know in your comments.

Got anything exciting on your dance card this weekend? We are planning to enjoy the NHL All-Star Game and then prepare for next weekend’s Super Bowl. Can anyone tell me what the dog is all the hubbub about on this whole Taylor Swift/Travis Kelce thing. I mean, why are people so bent out of shape that a very successful musical star supports her boyfriend at his games? I just don’t get it.

Do you believe Punxsutawney Phil’s forecast will bear out? Whatever you do, we hope you are able to enjoy whatever Mother Nature dishes up.

Nature Friday

Live, love, bark! 🐾