Another Day, Another Chew Toy

A Christmas Cookie

2011-12-27T20:35:00.000-08:00

Some people who fish talk about "the one that got away." You know, the fish that was so big, so beautiful, so perfect, you think of it every time you fish? It doesn't matter how many ~~cookies~~ fish you eat afterwards, you always taste that one perfect ~~Christmas cookie~~ fish on your tongue.

Sometimes, you think that if you'd just tried a little harder, just moved a little faster, just dreamed a little bigger, you would have caught that perfect fish.

It was right there.

You almost had it.

It practically jumped into your net.

And just when you thought you could almost taste its delicious sweetness...

It got away.

And you can still hear it.

Mocking you.

King of my Castle

2011-11-26T19:30:00.001-08:00

They say a man's home is his castle but I believe that that saying is wrong. The home is only the man's castle because the dog lets him live there.

The dog is really the big cheese as far as the castle is concerned.

I'm clearly the boss in my household. The People that live here may try to tell you differently, but they are mistaken. Part of my strategy is to let them believe that they are the bosses so that they'll keep my food dish full. It is a small price to pay.

If you are not convinced, allow me to give you some proof:

1. Guess who eats first? That's right! Me. Every morning, kibble lands in my dish before anyone else eats and every evening at 4pm, same thing.

2. I have a bed in the living room. I'm allowed to curl up on my bed any old time I want. I don't have to go to the back of the house unless I choose to. Sure, I may choose to curl up on the kitchen floor but that is only because I want to.

3. They throw food at me. The Little One sees me and if there is anything in her hand she hands it to me. I don't even have to lift a paw. That's power.

4. The neighbors fear me. The dogs across the street see me and start barking in terror. The cats next door spend countless hours frozen in fear on the other side of the fence. Even if I run up to them and bark in their faces, they just sit there. Frozen. Terrified. Sometimes if they are particularly scared of my presence they will move to the front yard and sit silently under the tree, praying I won't see them.

Chickens.

5. Does anyone wipe YOUR feet when you come in from outside? 'Nuff said.

Yeah. It's good to be king.

Back to school

2011-09-05T19:44:00.000-07:00

For Them, not for me.

Tomorrow is the start of my 9 month nap.

I'm pretty excited since I haven't had my special nap in over a year.

I will miss Summer, though.

Summer means lying around, watching the yard.

Watching the kid.

And watching the snack.

Always watching the snack.

And getting the ball.

And bringing it back.

Over and over and over.

Have a great school year, Everyone! I'm going to go make sure my nap spots are ready.

Naptime interrupted.

2011-05-30T20:20:00.000-07:00

NObody knows the trouble I've seen.

NObody knows my sorrow.

Aaahhhh. Happiness.

What was I whining about?

A Letter to my Baby

2011-03-21T21:23:00.000-07:00

Dear Camille,

Once upon a time, before you were born, your mommy and daddy picked me out just for you. They knew that one day, they would have a little baby, who would need a special friend. So they looked and looked, and out of a whole bunch of puppies in the world, they chose me, because they knew I would love you.

And I do. Even though I don't quite understand you yet, I really love you. Your mommy and daddy take good care of me and I love them, but in just a little while, you will be my best friend. We will have so much fun together, playing and running and getting dirty. It is going to be a blast.

But right now I have to wait. It is really hard to wait, because I want to lick you so bad, but I know you are too little to play my way yet. So we play your way.

Playing your way right now means I have to be very still. I'm so excited for when you are bigger, because we will be best friends. But now, I have to wait.

I'm very good at waiting. I don't follow any of the other rules your mommy and daddy make up. I hardly listen to any instructions, unless I'm bribed with a cookie, but I never break the rule of being gentle when you are around. I even watch my feet! Sometimes you pull my hair, and sometimes you tickle my nose, and yet I hold very, very still because I know how special you are.

When it is time for you to eat, I wait patiently by your chair, because you've got my back. Right now, waiting quietly gets me a scoop of whatever you leave behind from your dinner. But soon, if I keep being patient, I know you'll slip me some other treats when your mommy and daddy aren't looking. And I'll aways clean up your chair and the floor when you are done, because that's what friends are for.

I'll always take care of you. I will wait for you when you are at school and when you get home, we can play in the yard. I'll teach you how to play frizbee and how to dig in the garden and how to get your feet nice and wet before you come inside.

Wherever you go, if you let me, I'll be right by your side. I'll always be your friend. I'll always want to play. That's my job. It's why I'm here.

Love, Teddy

Hello?

2011-01-03T22:22:00.000-08:00

Hello?

What are you guys doing in here?

Surely you didn't mean to close the door and leave me out!

The kid.

2010-12-27T20:10:00.000-08:00

They say some day soon we'll be best friends.

We're both a little skeptical.

Snowy goodness

2010-11-27T22:44:00.000-08:00

Snow days mean frizbee fun!

It is so nice to run around and play with dad!

Keep away is the best game!

Haircut

2010-09-24T18:33:00.000-07:00

Mom and Camille took me yesterday to get a bath and my hair cut.

I look so handsome now, if I do say so myself!

Unfortunately, my feathers were a little matted

so they had to trim me a little short.

It looks a little silly.

Update

2010-08-11T22:01:00.000-07:00

Not much is happening at my house.

I had to go to the vet for a tummy ache.

I didn't want to eat and that is NOT okay.

Other than that, same old same old.

Remember me?

2010-07-21T10:02:00.000-07:00

Just want to make sure you guys remember me since

no one has taken a picture of me in ages!

Everyone is taking all these pictures of that little bundle.

They call the bundle Camille and she smells really good -

but no one will let me lick or smell her.

How am I supposed to give my approval?

I guess she's okay because Mom and Dad are SO happy!

Teddy Spaghetti

2010-05-28T19:59:00.000-07:00

I didn't get my nickname for no good reason!

Look what I found on the kitchen floor!

I know if I hear a crash and Mommy says a bad word, it is time to come running!

I found a couple of these bad boys on the floor and I enjoyed each one!

I also enjoyed it when Dad shook the Parmesan cheese container without checking the lid.

What delicious vittles to be found on the floor tonight!

The Mother of all Biscuits

2010-04-21T19:42:00.000-07:00

Look at this baby!

Yum, yum, yum. So delicious.

It is as big as my head!

I didn't have any trouble, though.

Veggie Tales

2010-04-07T20:26:00.000-07:00

I discovered today that I love peas!

Especially big, oversized ones!

Nom, nom, nom!

Under the Weather

2010-03-07T21:32:00.001-08:00

Sometimes when you are feeling a little pukey, the best thing to do is find a comfortable place to snuggle.

I find mom and dad's bed is the best option but in a pinch, anywhere with lots of pillows will do.

Now take two biscuits, snuggle in, and call me in the morning.

Say CHEEEEEESE!

2010-02-17T18:07:00.001-08:00

The decline of a chew toy

2010-01-19T19:54:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday to me!

2010-01-16T21:02:00.000-08:00

They said it's my birthday!

Na, na, na, nah!

Got a new toy to chew!

Na, na, na, nah!

And chew it I did, y'all!

Na, na, na, nah!

'Cause that's what I do!

Na, na, na, nah!

As they say, it's my party and I'll chew if I want to!

Focus

2009-11-28T07:07:00.000-08:00

Focus is very important in my training to become

the most fabulous dog in the world.

I take my training very seriously.

You could say I'm focused about focus.

Here I am focused on a tasty treat this

little lady was selecting for me.

We were working on "wait" and "sit" and "down",

three of my best tricks.

Isn't she a cutie-patooty? Easy to focus.

Here I am focused hard on cheering for the Ducks.

I like Ducks, after all, I'm a Golden Retriever.

Mom and Dad get pretty excited when they play

and I like to cheer too.

I jump up on them when they yell.

Focusing on the frizbee is very important.

I am a frizbee master. It is my favorite thing.

I have two frizbees that my Mom and Dad think are

exactly the same. They are wrong.

One of them is MUCH better than the other.

New toys require much focus. If you lose concentration,

they might hide it.

I love a new toy, especially this one.

It smelled like a friend and was perfect for sucking.

I like to suck on my soft toys.

Finally, it is important to focus when you see potential friends

on the big, blinking, talking box Mom and Dad are obsessed with.

I have to work on my focus on this one better

because they never seem to come out to play with me.

Pavlov's dog ain't got nothin' on Teddy

2009-10-28T21:05:00.000-07:00

(Teddy's mom will be a guest writer today while Teddy is on vacation.)

I imagine Teddy is a lot like a small child. As long as he has his basic needs met, knows he is loved, and has a routine to his day, he is happy. Bill and I are a lot like the parents of a small child when it comes to Master Teddy, in that we do everything we can to make sure he has his basic needs met, knows he is loved and has a routine.

Lately, Teddy's need for a routine has become a little ridiculous. Teddy is so dependent on his schedule that he starts acting like a complete imbecile if we deviate from his pattern by the slightest bit.

In the morning, we wake about 5:45. I get in the shower, Bill lets Master Teddy out of his crate. Before Bill gets Teddy's breakfast, Teddy has to go outside. Teddy knows this, so as soon as Bill is able to unlatch the crate, Teddy bursts forth from inside and makes a beeline for the back door. He KNOWS that pausing at his food station will do him no good. He must first go outside. Bill will stand and the door and wait. If Bill tries to go get Teddy's breakfast ready while Teddy is outside, he'll wait by the door and not go take care of his business. Teddy isn't going to risk being forgotten or worse, risk his breakfast, by losing sight of Bill to go out on the grass, so Bill has to remain in sight.

Before we leave for school, Teddy has to go outside. In nicer weather, Bill will take him out for a little frizbee. In the rainy muck, I take Teddy out because I can usually convince him to "hurry up" and go a little faster than Bill. (Bill is just too much fun!) When he comes back inside, I'll ask Bill which treat Teddy gets, a cookie or a frozen kong. After my question, Teddy will whisk past us and jump on his big pillow in the living room and wait. He also does this action if we open the freezer door and rustle the plastic bag the kongs are in.

When we get home, there is a similar routine as the morning. We greet Teddy and he runs for the door. First he must take care of business, then he has dinner. We have to walk him off the deck because he is too concerned about missing dinner to let us out of his sight. I feed Teddy dinner. As soon as he has used the facilities, he races to the door. Bursting through the door, he races to his food bowl and takes a few spins of excitement. If I am still outside or on my way over, Teddy will bark impatiently.

Teddy's routine revolves mainly around the distribution of food and biscuits. The funny thing is, I don't know if this regimen is Teddy's, or ours. We like that Teddy has a schedule. Today, on the way home from school, we took several minutes weighing our options because we needed to stop at the store. We could stop at the store on the way home, I could drop Bill off and go back, or we could scrap the whole idea completely and eat saltines and canned refried beans for dinner. The dilemma had nothing to do with us - not with laziness, or another urgency or a even a hatred of the grocery store. Our problem was that we didn't want Teddy to have to wait. He eats at 4pm. Making him wait even 20 minutes stresses the poor little guy (read Bill and Mindy) out.

If Teddy were to eat a half an hour late (and he occasionally does), he would forget as soon as the first kibble dropped into the dish. But we still worry. I'll admit, we worry a little more about the safety of our floors and brand new carpets because although Teddy has had a 9 hour bladder even as early as 4 months old, he occasionally gets stressed out. I doubt his accidents have to do with our occasional tardiness, but that doesn't make it easier to clean up.

Teddy, though human-like in his sweetness, is really an animal when it comes to his snacks. He knows what he has to do to get his half a cookie and if that means rushing to his crate as soon as I say, "Go to bed" then by golly, he will. I think Teddy could easily relearn his routines but I'm not so we could. Without a doubt, Teddy's saliva starts flowing with each step of his routine. But my palms start sweating at the thought of straying from his schedule. So who is really conditioned in our family?

I think we all know the answer to that question.

Achieving Extreme Cuteness

2009-10-13T21:30:00.000-07:00

From time to time, I like to share my experience with the world.

Today's topic is cuteness.

While I have countless examples of my expertise in this area,

here are some of my favorites:

In this picture, I jumped up on the bed while mom was changing the sheets.

Since I had my sleepy, snuggly face on,

(which tricks them into leaving me here, by the way)

mom put a sleep shirt on me.

Hey, a boy needs his beauty rest, right?

Sometimes, in order to receive an

appropriate number of pats and scratches,

I have to stretch my head way up, like in this picture.

I could have gotten up to get closer,

but I much prefer the squish and stretch method.

One way to impress all around you with your cuteness

is to use good strategy.

In this case, I started barking to get attention.

I was ignored, so I barked a little more.

Mom tossed a pillow at my head, so I did what any Cutie would do -

I promptly snuggled in for a nap!

The foolproof method of achieving extreme cuteness is of course,

striking a pose and flashing a toothy grin.

Works every time!

I'm BACK!

2009-09-16T21:04:00.000-07:00

Ahem. Excuse me.

Do you remember me?

It's me. Teddy.

I'm sure you've been wondering where I've been lately.

Up until a couple of weeks ago, I was really busy.

I spent a lot of time with friends.

My friend Zonker and I swam together.

It may look like he is ahead in that race,

but guess who came back with the prize?

That's right.

I'm a good swimmer because my booty floats!

I also got to hang out with a human friend.

This little lady walked me around and around until I was so tired,

I didn't think I could walk another step.

But you know me, of course I did!

This is what I'm doing nowadays.

The Keepers of the Food Bin and the Frizbee Throwers

keep leaving every day.

So I'm back to my 8 hour power nap.

Only 10 more months till the fun starts again!

Ode to a River

2009-08-13T21:28:00.001-07:00

Cool, rushing river.

How I love you so.

My playground, my pasture of happiness.

Your banks covered with wet rocks, musty grass, and

the occasional dead fish.

Every part of you screams fun.

If I could spend but one more hour along your shimmery banks,

I would spend it on patrol, for a waterlogged toy,

flying through the air.

And when I see said toy, in an arc across

my dear river's rippled surface,

I am blown away by the need

to run, jump, splash and swim.

And landing, graceful, into your blessed, wet, coolness.

I am overcome with the need to chase my toy,

grasp it along with a mouthful of your river bounty,

And return to shore, to do it again.

Times infinity.

Camping is Cool

2009-08-13T21:16:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from our camping trip.

I hope that they help you understand just how wonderful it was.

This is just an example of the amount of dirt that covered me after our trip.

Pretty impressive, right?

Camping was at least 10% awesome fun,

90% serious laziness.

No dog could complain when faced with those odds.

A dog's number one job while camping is patrol.

The humans' biggest concern is for these coolers,

which were heavily laden with yummy snacks and beer.

I watched them very closely.

This is how I spent most of the day.

Laying very still in the cool dust,

as close to the action as I could get.

This is my buddy Zonker.

He is a much more experienced patrolman than I am.

Look how serious he is?

Maybe he should go camping more.

Why Camping Changed my Life

2009-08-13T18:01:00.000-07:00

This is me before my first camping trip.

Heartbreaking, don't you think?

It is really hard for me to look at this picture and

remember what life was like before I'd been camping.

(Check out that carpet, though. That is NICE!*)

Anyway.

Before I went camping I'd never known what it was like

to loll around in the dirt all day, to eat delicious hot dogs dropped from the table, or

the never-ending smorgazbord to behold from the hands and face of an 8-month old.

Before I went camping I didn't understand the joy that comes from

frolicking in the river for hours on end, or how funny it is

to refuse to do your business in the grass at the campground and

require your dad to drive you two to three times a day to the

off-leash area to take care of things.

Ahhh, camping.

This is a picture of me while camping.

Isn't the before and after remarkable?

*Mom and Dad got new carpet and wanted to advertise.

Busy Busy Teddy

2009-08-07T18:26:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted in awhile and I'm sure you've missed me. Let me assure you that I have been VERY busy! When I posted last, I was telling you the story of my trip to the beach. Not long after, there was a barbeque at our house to celebrate the Fourth of July. The best part of the night was when my buddy Nate came over!

Mom and Dad are usually a little nervous about the fireworks because I'm afraid of many things. They discovered that I am more afraid of a newspaper falling off a table (super scary!) than really loud fireworks (not so scary).

I spent much of the evening lolly-gagging around on the grass.

Oh yeah, and chewing sticks!

Stay tuned for more about my first CAMPING TRIP!!

Tales of Teddy Part 4

2009-07-07T16:23:00.000-07:00

Part 4: Tasty Treasures at the Beach

Even when he was at the beach, Teddy still found sticks to chew on!

Teddy noticed that his mouth tasted a little salty.

Teddy recognizes the drive through.

Tasty things happen when pulling up to the food delivery windows!

Nothing tastes better than ice cream after a great day at the beach!

All done!

The perfect ending to a perfect day!

Tales of Teddy Part 3

2009-07-05T14:40:00.000-07:00

Part 3: If I went anywhere, I WAS RUNNING!

And Master Teddy, upon smelling the salted air,

seeing the space open up before him,

and feeling the joy building up in his larger-than-life puppy heart,

started to run.

And so he ran.

And ran.

And ran some more.

Tales of Teddy Part 2

2009-07-03T20:41:00.001-07:00

Part 2: A New Horizon

When we arrived at this wondrous place called "The Beach",

Teddy first looked out upon a whole new world.

He couldn't believe his eyes and the incredible . . . space.

His people made him stay on his leash,

not knowing what Master Teddy would do when

presented with such a vast expanse before him.

First he looked north. Then south. So much to see!

He wasn't sure where to begin and was

overwhelmed with how to take in this new world.

So naturally he started sniffing around.

Delicious, salty water everywhere.

Soon, Master Teddy was struck by an overwhelming need to . . .

RUN!

And run he did.

Tales of Teddy

2009-07-03T11:12:00.000-07:00

Over the next couple of posts, I'm going to tell you a story.

It is the story of a dog, his people and quite possibly

the most wonderful place in the world.

Part One: The Car

In the beautiful land called Oregon lives

a handsome, mighty dog named Teddy.

We shall refer to him as Master Teddy.

He loves his people and he loves adventure.

He also loves the car.

Master Teddy knows that the car leads to adventure

and any ride in the car,

even a short ride, is glorious.

On the rare occasion that Master Teddy's people

forget to roll down the window for him,

Master Teddy will whine from the backseat, or

stick his nose (or tongue) in their ears to remind them.

But once that window opens,

Master Teddy spends most of the ride feeling the wind ruffle his hair.

No one could be happier than Master Teddy

riding in the back, his people in the front,

and the wind blowing directly in his face.

Lessons for Humans from Teddy

2009-07-01T21:47:00.000-07:00

Dear Humans,

There is a big difference between humans and dogs. Cause and effect. Humans understand this relationship, dogs don't. Because we don't understand the relationship, occasionally we get ourselves into some sticky situations. Here is an example: When playing with a ball, if you push the ball under a couch, you no longer can play with the ball. Humans understand this and don't push the ball under the couch. Dogs push the ball under the couch and bark at it.

Another example: When you break the rules, you have to suffer the consequences. Humans don't like to break the rules because they don't like the consequences. Dogs jump on the bed anyway and look what happens:

Here is another shot:
That's right. When you jump on the bed in my house, you have to wear a bra, get laughed at and have your picture taken.

Here is the big difference between humans and dogs, though. Was jumping on the bed worth the ridicule? Absolutely! So comfy. So cozy. So much attention for doing so. So here is the lesson, my two-legged friends. Sometimes it is okay to live life without concern for the consequences! Break the rules! Push the ball under the couch! Someone will get it for you and you can go right on playing!

I just hope you look as cute in a bra as I do!

Love, Teddy

Exhaustion from every angle

2009-06-23T22:29:00.000-07:00

What does tired look like?

You know, the kind of tired that happens after chasing

two little kids around all day?

Well . . . it can have a lot of different looks.

Here they are, in random order:

Classic Teddy.

Hey, don't bother me man. I'm trying to catch a few winks!

Whassuupp?

Hummana hummana hummana . . .

You talkin' to me?

Eth-cuz-me?

Invasion

2009-06-22T21:47:00.001-07:00

An invasion has been cramping my style.

I wasn't aware that I had a style.

It appears that my nap-filled, snack-munching, Bolt-watching days

have been interrupted by an invasion of some little rascals.

Mom and Dad call the little rascals

"Niece" and "Nephew", whatever that means.

Napping has become increasingly difficult.

Luckily these little rascals are quite tasty!

I keep getting my paws checked out.

Maybe he is trying to give me a pup-icure!

On the bright side, snacks seem to fall from

their little hands quite easily!

So I've been hanging out in the kitchen whenever they are there.

The best part is the hugs!

Awwww, love you too, Dude!

Teddy and his BFF Bolt

2009-06-12T20:50:00.001-07:00

Tonight Mom and Dad gave me a yummy bone for a snack.

If you know anything about me by now, it is that I am VERY serious about snacks!

While I was enjoying my snack, I heard a funny barking noise.

Naturally, I stopped munching to investigate.

You would not BELIEVE what I saw!

It was another dog!

This cool dog named Bolt was telling this cat a thing or two!

I found the show very interesting.

I'm not too sure about this cat Mittens.

Like all cats, I think she means trouble!

Just look at that picnic area.

I bet Bolt will find some tasty snacks down there!

I could show him how to make the "dog face".

I'm an expert on that face!

What a great show!

Shameless begging

2009-05-28T21:31:00.001-07:00

Mom was having some popcorn tonight.

I really wanted some but I wanted to be near Dad too.

Notice my paw.

I can see the popcorn coming a little closer to me.

If I move, I may miss my chance.

I'll hold very, very still.

It is so close.

Soon you will be mine, little kernel of goodness.

It would be impossible to capture the moment I get to eat the popcorn.

I'm really fast!

Note: While it would be amazing if these pictures were rapid shot photography, they were actually staged. This is the drool spot I left on the couch. Sorry if you are grossed out.

Since I don't have thumbs

2009-05-03T12:58:00.000-07:00

Sometimes when I'm feeling a little sleepy,

I like to suck on my foot.

Mmmmm...towels!

2009-05-02T21:58:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I really enjoy eating towels.

I don't actually eat them. I just chew up little pieces and spit them out.

Fit as a Fiddle: A Vet Story

2009-03-25T10:44:00.000-07:00

Today we got in the car really early. We only drove for a few minutes and when we got out of the car, I got very excited. In the building we entered I smelled all kinds of glorious smells. Kitties, dogs, dogfood...mmmmm! I was greeted by a little dog as soon as we walked in. As soon as I started wiggling around he turned right around and left. Maybe he doesn't like wiggles.

Daddy and the nurse lady made me sit on a great big scale. I snuck in a great big lick on the lady's face while they were waiting for the scale to tell them that I weigh 74 pounds. I guess that is a lot! When we met the doctor, he told us that my weight is really good and that I have big quad muscles. (I guess that means I carry my weight in my booty!)

I was really excited to meet the doctor! He really likes Goldens and gave me lots of pets and snuggles. He says I look really healthy, including my ears and my pearly whites. He said he almost got blinded by my nice, white teeth! A lady came in and held me while the doctor stuck me with a needle. She sure got a surprise when I gave her a big kiss from ear to ear! Then I got a biscuit!

I loved my trip to the vet this morning!

My trip

2009-03-23T19:44:00.001-07:00

We went on a big trip this weekend. It was a really long time in the car.

I have discovered that if I hesitate when it is time to get in the car,

Mom or Dad picks me up to put me in.

I consider it a couple extra seconds of cuddle time.

Once I'm in the car, I start whining if Mom or Dad doesn't put the window down.

I like to feel the wind blowing my lips.

Today I really didn't like that Dad was sleeping, Mom was driving*,

and I was stuck in the backseat. So I thought I'd put my head on Dad's shoulder for a snuggle.

*(Don't worry, Mom was really safe while taking the picture and she'll never, ever do it again.)

Bathtime Part 2

2009-03-09T19:20:00.000-07:00

So, on Saturday I went to the park with my good friend Lucy. We wanted to go to an event for dogs and let off some steam. We'd had it planned for awhile and didn't want to let a little rain stop us! As soon as we were done getting free samples of kibbles and treats, we were off to the park. I love the park and I love playing with Lucy so this was a real treat! I had the best time rolling around in the fresh mud with all my friends, but I was a little dirty when we were done.

So we all trooped off to the doggy wash. I really don't like the doggy wash, but I really love the biscuits I get after a good scrubbing. And man was I looking fine when we were done!

Ooh lah lah!

Today I decided that I'd been clean for too long. So, after the snow/hail storm, I found some slippery mud in the backyard. After romping around for awhile, Mom and Dad decided it was time for another bath. Darn it!

At least I love all the attention!

Teddy's Food Diary

2009-02-19T20:44:00.000-08:00

(Since my mom and dad are keeping a food diary while they are losing weight,

I decided that I want to join in the fun. I never EVER want to be left out!)

Dear Diary,

Here I am in front of my favorite spot in the whole house. I like to say that this is where the action is! All kibble is delicious but the best treat is when I come out of my crate and find a tasty surprise in my bowl, like a nibble of chicken or a piece of cheese. I check my bowl every time I walk by just in case something appears there.

Again, I am in front of my bowl, only this time something very exciting is happening! A tasty treat is being offered to me. Sometimes they make me wait before I take a taste, which I think is kind of dumb. If I get to have it anyway, why do I have to wait? Can you see all that scrumptious goodness in the dish?

After a long day of checking my bowl and thinking about my next meal, sometimes I get really tired and have to take a nap. While I enjoy my bed and a snuggle toy, I really like to cuddle with my cube in my arms. My cube delivers half of my meal each day and it is truly magical how when I just nudge it with my paws, kibble comes out. I adore my cube. Such a good friend.
Usually my food is given to me, but sometimes I am left to my own devices. If mom and dad leave me outside too long, I find that I can get my "chew" on from some choice pieces of wood from the wood pile. Mom isn't quite sure how I manage to get logs from the wood pile up dthe stairs to the back door, but as you can see from this picture, I have an amazing set of chops.

Well, Diary, hope you enjoyed my entries today. I enjoyed eating them!

Love,

Teddy

Teddy's nose knows

2009-01-28T18:01:00.000-08:00

Well, well, well. What have we here?

I smell something that I KNOW must be for me!

Aha! I knew it! Lasagna!

I can clean that up for you if you like.

Question

2009-01-28T17:49:00.000-08:00

Where's my cookie?

Lessons for Humans from Teddy

2009-01-17T23:11:00.000-08:00

Dear Humans,

I think there is a big difference between dogs and humans. I mean besides the four versus two legs and the whole tail thing. I also think that humans could learn a lot from their dog friends. Allow me to explain.

Everything a dog does is the best thing in the whole world. Pretty simple, right? Can you imagine if you lived your life that way? As if what you are doing is the best thing? EVER?

Yesterday was my birthday. I don't really know what that means, but I do know it was the best day ever. I woke up and when I got out of my crate, it was time for BREAKFAST! Let me tell you, breakfast is the best thing ever! I love breakfast. I ate my breakfast as fast as I could because I love my breakfast so much. After breakfast, I got to go outside and sniff around. Sniffing around is the best thing ever! I love sniffing around because everything smells so good. Grass smells good, dirt smells good. I could sniff around all day! After sniffing around, Mom let me in and I got to play with my bowling pin. Playing with my bowling pin is the best thing ever! It makes the most wonderful squeaking sound.

When Mom and Dad left for work, I got a kong. Kongs are the best thing ever! It was filled with yummy dog food and I just love to lay on my bed and lick all the dog food up. Then it is time for a nap! You guessed it! Naps are the best thing ever!

When Mom and Dad got home, they put my leash on and we got in the car. Let me tell you, riding in the car is the best thing ever! I get to stick my head out the window and the wind blows my face. When we stop at stoplights, people in other cars look at me and smile and get the attention of the person sitting next to them. Then they wave. After the car ride, we went to the dog park. Oh man, oh man. BTE! All these new friends who want to sniff my booty and tons of new booties to sniff! After all booties are sniffed, we run around and roll in the dirt. I love the dog park. Then we get in the car. I love the car! B. T. E.

So anyway, at home it was DINNERTIME. My stars I love dinnertime. BTE! Dinnertime makes me want to run around in circles. But I have to sit to get my dinner, so I sit and wiggle around a bit. Man, I love dinner.

So, as you can see, my birthday was the best day ever. Then I woke up this morning, and I got to eat my breakfast. Now today is the best day ever.

I hope today is your best day ever.

Love, Teddy

Unmentionables

2008-12-21T16:08:00.000-08:00

So, this snow stuff is really messing with my routine.

I do NOT like it, let me tell you!

First of all, my last walk of any substance was 7 days ago.

Mom and Dad take me on these little walks but the snow

hurts my feet. I guess I need some shoes.

They only let me play frizbee for a little while and now that everything

is covered in ice, I can't even do that.

My yard is a disaster, and that is the biggest problem.

Humans just don't understand.

Where am I supposed to go to the bathroom?

Where?

I am a pretty regular boy and I was almost 24 hours overdue

by the time I finally, well, you know.

Imagine your comfy bathroom suddenly covered in

6 inches of feathers and on top of that,

a sheet of freezing cold plywood.

Not very pleasant.

Nevermind!

2008-12-20T15:02:00.000-08:00

The snow is back!

I would like to play!

Ahem...

2008-12-20T14:59:00.000-08:00

Yes, excuse me.

The snow is gone.

I would like to come in.

Door, please.

Sweet Moves

2008-12-16T17:11:00.000-08:00

Hey, you wanna see my sweet moves?

First I get ready...

Oh! There's the throw!

I'm on it!

Almost got it!

Got it!

Piece of cake!

This is child's play.

Here I come!

Let's do it again!

I love frizbee in the snow!

Deja vous part two

2008-12-14T12:26:00.001-08:00

Look what happened outside today!

I wanted to run, and play, and frolic!

Playing chase with my frizbee was extra-fun.

I got really excited a few times and started racing around the yard.

Look at my extreme agility!

When I finally calmed down, I really liked schnuffling around.

Things smell better covered in cold, yummy snow!

Yep! Lots of stuff to do when the world is covered in snow!

Deja Vous

2008-12-14T12:19:00.000-08:00

I had the strangest feeling of deja vous today.

When I first came to live with my mom and dad, the weirdest thing happened!

This white stuff came out of the sky and everything felt really cold.

I remember looking all around this new place and thinking,

"Huh. Weird just got weirder."

What I discovered was that it was really fun

to run and slide around in all the chilly white stuff.

If you want to read about it, be sure to read my post from that day.

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-07T15:36:00.000-08:00

So, my parents decided they wanted a Christmas photo.

I don't really know why, but it was really confusing for me.

They put these weird jingling things around my neck and paws.

I made all this noise while I walked around.

Then they got some cheese out, and I found it very distracting.

Every time I sat down to patiently wait for my cheese, they told me to lie down.

Then they would try to move me around.

Look at my mom trying to shove me over when

I was just trying to be good and get some cheese!

She finally seemed happy with this picture and a couple others.

That guy with the beard scared me a little.

Happy Holidays!

Sicky Poo

2008-12-02T17:50:00.000-08:00

My mom and dad came home from work yesterday to find me very, very under the weather. I had to stay outside for a long time while they cleaned up. Then, they only gave me a little bit of my dinner. THEN they took me in the car to get a (yuck!) bath. I guess my smelly fur was a little offensive to them. It was a lousy day.

The good news is today I'm feeling much better! I was confined to the kitchen all day. I guess that area is easier to clean up then the carpeted area. But mom and dad mentioned how glad they are that they didn't replace the carpet this summer! I even got to go on a little walk! Life is good again!

What I'm Thankful For...

2008-11-27T07:53:00.001-08:00

1. All the people who love me!

2. Biscuits that fly through the air.

3. Ahhh, belly rubs...

4. My Budweiser towel.

5. Little licks of ice cream.

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Who's the Boss?

2008-11-21T19:44:00.000-08:00

Oh, are you talking to me? I know I'm up here on the couch which is supposedly "off-limits". Yeah right, like all the other rules you guys try to enforce.

Well, if what you have to say is interesting, I may decide to listen.

Something about cookies, perhaps?

Hmmm, I'm listening.

You're blathering on and on about why I'm not supposed to be on the couch.

I've heard this before.

Yawn. This is boring me.

Whatever. I'll just go back to what I was watching.

Oh good, the Dog Whisperer is over.

Wretched, wretched show.

Ooo, Groomer Has It.

Um, can you move? You're blocking my view...

Doggie Toupee

2008-11-18T20:47:00.000-08:00

I have a little quirk I'd like to share with you.

Many people call it my doggie toupee. I think it makes me look dashing.

It is a section of hair on my back that is longer and courser than all my other hair.

When I'm nervous, it stands up and makes me look tough!

It is only on my shoulders like you see in the picture.

Aren't I special?!?

Boo?

2008-10-30T21:13:00.001-07:00

So, my mom and dad spent all this time carving pumpkins and then they made me

sit in front of them for a picture. The flash was really bright.

I'm not really impressed.

They could at least have let me have some of the pumpkin guts.

I'm sure they were delicious.

To the Little People...

2008-10-21T21:18:00.000-07:00

I'd like to thank the little people that helped make this day possible.

My papa. Without him, I'd have no one to cuddle with when I'm scared, no one to pick up my "business", and no one to wake up from a nap with a big lick on the face. He loves it, I know!

And my mom. Without her, my ears would never get cleaned, I'd have never tasted ice cream, and I would never get to wear ridiculous, I mean, attractive outfits.

Graduation Day part 2!

2008-10-21T21:08:00.001-07:00

We had to show off our tricks before we could get our diplomas! Mine was "which one", which is kind of like pick a hand. Sometimes when I choose a hand, there is a treat inside...

Sometimes there isn't. I think it is a dumb trick, but Mom thinks it is really cool. I get frustrated, but it is worth it when I find something yummy!

Jimmy showed us all he can shake. I can do that too, but I would never be able to sit on that little stool. That is an amazing trick!

Finally, Indy showed off her fantastic spin.

She is such a model! Here is one of her in a witch outfit.

I think the hat must be very heavy...

Graduation Day!

2008-10-21T20:58:00.000-07:00

DUM! Da da da DUM DUM! DUM, da da da DUM!

Today was graduation day at school! It was a very exciting day. First, my new friends and I had to show off our tricks. Ginger went first and amazed us all by going through a hoop! I couldn't believe my eyes!

What a big day!

2008-10-21T20:54:00.000-07:00

Yeeoww!

At school today we discovered that I have gained 5 pounds in one month. I am now 66.8 pounds! I must have had a growth spurt! People are commenting that I look "taller" but I think I look more handsome by the day!

Being bad is so much fun!

2008-10-20T20:53:00.000-07:00

I'm not supposed to be up here on the "couch", but it is so comfy!

I'll just take a little snooze. These yahoos won't make me move anyway.

Where's Waldo? I mean Teddy.

2008-10-02T17:54:00.000-07:00

I love to hide in the bushes.

I'm only coming out if you have a Frizbee in your hand.

That's better! Now...throw!

Hello? I'm serious here. This is Frizbee. No kidding around.

That's better! I'm on it!

I just love this game. I could play all day.

Playtime with Friends!

2008-09-08T16:57:00.000-07:00

I love playing games with my friend Marley!

We especially love to play chase...except Marley is way too fast for me!

Go Ducks!

2008-08-18T19:33:00.000-07:00

I can't wait for football season!

Who wouldn't love this game? I just want to kiss the ball!

Poor Baby

2008-08-18T19:28:00.000-07:00

I had to go to the vet and have a "procedure" for boy puppies. Now I'm all sleepy.

They also gave me this weird thing that goes around my neck. In protest, I don't

move a muscle when I have it on. I just hold very, very still!

Aloha!

2008-08-18T19:26:00.000-07:00

My folks got me all dressed up for their Hawaiian party.

Thank goodness they couldn't find the coconut bra.

Happiness is...

2008-07-06T21:51:00.000-07:00

...a big bowl of kibble.

...a snuggle and a pat on the head.

...looking out the window.

...visitors who think I'm cute.

...sticks.

...naps.

...muddy paws.

...friends who play chase.

Manners

2008-07-06T16:30:00.001-07:00

You should see how well-mannered I am!

I know "Down!"

Watch me!

Sit!

Oops! Sometimes I get a little over-excited for my cookie. Hey, can you blame me?

Since no one's really listening...

2008-07-04T21:31:00.000-07:00

This is my dog's blog, for crying out loud, I guess I can take an entry to be honest since I don't think anyone reads this anyway. I was reading my cousin's wife's blog who just recently had a sweet little baby boy, Ian. He is so beautiful and I can't begin to say how happy I am for the two of them. My heart broke just a little bit today though as I looked at pictures of Baby Ian playing with a toy. I'm also entering my temperature into the Fertility Friend website, which as of a few months ago thought I was pregnant. Bill and I are going to start trying again this month but my heart just feels so full of emotions right now. Being pregnant the first time felt so volatile. It almost felt like a gift I wasn't allowed to have. I was worried the whole time and kept waiting for God to take it away. He did, but I don't think of our miscarriage as a punishment from God. I don't think God works that way - giving blessings to people and swooping in and taking them away. Something must be going on that I don't understand. It is so hard to trust Him that He has a plan for Bill and I that is wonderful and perfect when we think it should be a certain way. I want to be pregnant and expecting that little baby and instead I am left to wonder what will happen next. I can't help but feel like I should be 15 weeks along and be working on the nursery. I also can't help but wonder if I wish to be pregnant or pregnant with the child we lost. Of course I wish I was pregnant with the baby we lost. But wishing doesn't really matter, does it? Bill and I got pregnant so easily the first time. I can't imagine that it will be that easy this time. Don't you only get one "easy"? Bill says that it will happen for us and our time will come. Why can't I have that kind of faith? Why do I have to doubt everything? Why can't I believe that something wonderful will just happen to me? Instead I'm left with this incredible feeling of doom.

Yeeesss?

2008-06-24T16:57:00.000-07:00

What??!?

Look...if you don't have a snack, please don't bother me.

C'mon...I've got napping to do!

Decisions, decisions...

2008-06-24T16:52:00.000-07:00

I just don't know what I want...

My bone or my snuggle toy? Sigh...lucky for me a boy just doesn't have to choose!

Ooh, La La!

2008-05-13T17:52:00.000-07:00

Oh, I'm so handsome!

Oh Me, Oh My

2008-05-12T20:00:00.000-07:00

So, we went to the vet again today. I really like that place. There are all sorts of people there and when I walk in the door everyone says, Oooohhhh! He's so cute! I know their talking about me because, well, look at me. Anyway, right after they gush about my cuteness and snuggle me, everyone always says, Woah...he is so BIG! He is going to be HUGE! Look at those PAWS!! I don't know what everyone says that, I mean, I only weigh...

39 pounds!

But it looks good on me!

Cow Funeral

2008-05-04T16:09:00.001-07:00

Sadly, we had to lay poor Cowie to rest today. He was a good friend.

Ooofta!

2008-05-04T16:06:00.001-07:00

Unnnh! This used to be a lot easier!

One, two, three, SUCK IT IN!

Everyone Into the Pool!

2008-04-30T17:07:00.001-07:00

Ummm, why is all that water in there?

Hey, I'm not too sure about this! It's all wet!

This is pretty great!

Bath Time

2008-04-30T17:02:00.000-07:00

So, do I look pretty handsome after my bath?

I wouldn't say it was fun, but I got a yummy snack and a cool new toy afterwards!

Kong Coma

2008-04-26T07:51:00.001-07:00

And now I must nap.

Popsicle Kong

2008-04-26T07:44:00.000-07:00

Hey, what is this? My toy? You pulled it out of the freezer!

Why would you put one of my toys in the freezer!

Hmmm, let me see here. There's something in here?!

Mmfph, oh yummy, mmmffph!

Comfy?

2008-04-17T20:01:00.000-07:00

I'm working on my flexibility. You never know when if will come in handy!

Guess What?

2008-04-16T21:00:00.001-07:00

Hey! Guess what! I have to tell you something!

I'm three months old today.

Snuggle Cove

2008-04-16T20:57:00.000-07:00

This is a great place to nap!

Huh? What's that? My food bowl calling me?

Can't see me!

2008-04-12T11:07:00.000-07:00

I really liked this spot in the coffee table. I thought it was really fun to squish in here and take a nap. Mom and Dad liked it too because I dusted under here. The sad news is my butt is too big and I can't really fit anymore. I miss those days...

Spring Snow?

2008-04-11T17:27:00.000-07:00

Hey! Did you see all this weird stuff coming out of the sky? I think I'll go investigate.

Wow, this stuff is really cool. Cold actually. Hey! You aren't shutting the door, are you?

Wait! I'm coming!

Shhhhhhhh.....

2008-04-11T17:19:00.000-07:00

Maybe if I lie here REALLY quietly they won't notice I'm up on the couch.

Crap. They saw me. Better turn on the cute.

Check me out!

2008-04-10T20:45:00.000-07:00

Well folks, I'm officially the most handsome man on the web! Be sure to check me out often...you will not be disappointed!