The Old Dog On His Last Legs

Uncas & Tip for a Spin

The fastest way to exercise Uncas is to take him on a bike ride. Tip also enjoys coming along. You can also see the all the laundry room stuff we were still storing in the garage, awaiting cabinets from Bobbins' parents' house. (They were getting new kitchen cabinets.)

New Dog

When we got back from the beach, Bobbins was dead set on getting a new dog. I tried to talk her out of it, as our old dog wasn't that near death and having two dogs didn't seem like a great idea. Undeterred and Unconvinced, she took the kids to the pound and ended up with this guy, who looks A LOT like the old dog, only a tad smaller.

Even The Dog Has Helped at the New Build

The Deaf Dog

The Dog, now about 12 years old, went nearly deaf over the summer. We think it's just old age. The vet says there's nothing wrong with his ears, he's just old. On the one hand, it's nice, because he doesn't bark at everything, especially the mailman, out front or in the back. But his utility as a guard dog is gone, and walks (still off the leash) are a big pain because he can't hear the commands to keep up or heel. He's still our faithful buddy.

Backyard Farm

The chickens survived the summer, but only after Bobbins' extraordinary efforts, including their own mister (which nearly ruined the bushes by their coop). Only two have been laying, with the other two eating all the food and not doing their part. The Dog, to his credit, has adjusted to the chickens and is not attacking them.

To the Cabin, Bearizona

Since our weekend at the cabin was cancelled before, we took advantage of the MLK 3-dayer to try it again, although only for one night and without any friends or family, just the seven of us. We stopped for lunch in Flag, where The Dog stood watch in the Sequoia. After checking in at the cabin, we headed over to Bearizona to use our membership. It was cold and rainy, but the bears and wolves were out, which was neat. That place never disappoints. We made it to 5pm Mass, then home to take it easy before the fire and a gourmet chicken dinner from Safeway. It was a long day that involved a lot of chopping of wood and setting the kids up. Baby E also had a blow-out that necessitated a new outfit right before church. We hoped for snow in Williams, but alas, it was only really cold rain.

 

Pals

How Much Longer Till This is Moey's Fate

Tree Hugger

The Dog, for some reason, wanted to huddle next to the tree when we first got it.  You can see we haven't fully decorated it yet, and it's a tad smaller than years past.  But it smells nice and is fairly healthy so far.

New Toy

Somehow The Dog got a new toy while I was gone.

He's a Hunter

A bird mysteriously flew into our glass front door Sunday, knocking itself out.  A moment later Katie opened the door to go outside and The Dog pounced.  Before we knew it he was trotting around the front yard, dead bird in mouth.

Dog and Ham Bone

He really is the best dog in the world.

video    (http://youtu.be/LosRqX_PCoM)

Buddy on Patrol

At "Mormon Parky"

Dogsitting

As part of a trade, Bobbins agreed to dogsit for one of her friends.  The little gal is a miniature pinscher, or "min pin."  It was a little tough having a not-fully-potty-trained dog unaccustomed to our rules, but the girls had fun with her and Bobbins enjoyed snuggling her.  Maybe she even put some pep into the 7.5 year-old Dog, who probably was more bemused than bothered.

The Dog's Snack

Bobbins made a snack of peanut butter and yogurt for The Dog, who ate it right up despite the logistical problems.

 This one's for you Mom.

Pre- and Post-Party

We had our annual work BBQ party the other Fri. night.  Sorry, no pic's, but it was a nice time.  We set up the ping pong table in the middle of the backyard and it stood up well enough.  The dog must've had a real good time with lots of food he should not have eaten.  Over the night he vomited and pooped all over floor (on the tile, thankfully).  The smell welcomed me in the morning.  Bobbins took JoJo to a birthday party after we got up.  JoJo wore the dress she got at the state fair.  She showed off for the camera.  Watch that part, about 30 seconds in.  Only watch the rest if you have a strong stomach.  Mom, this video is for you.

The Dog on Vacation Too

The Dog got his own little vacation at Uncle Zach's.  Plenty of quiet and good long walks at the ASU Research Park.  And a little sneak on the couch.  That bum.

Hosed

The Dog couldn't help himself with the hose the other day.

Like Any Kid