Hi everyone,
I'm sorry it has been so long since I updated, but lots has been going on with Mom lately. She still looking for a job, and we go see her job coach guy a lot, and we still get to have computer training with Debbie and Kelton, but about two weeks ago Mom's knee started to hurt. She had sprained it last winter and it all of a sudden started hurting again. She went to see a special doctor and he had to do a special test to see what was wrong. She called the test an MRI, what ever that is, and I couldn't come with her to take the test. I stayed home with Auntie Julia and watched her clean the house. I got scared of the vacume and I hid in my crate. I hate that loud vacume, it's loud and it chases me! WOOF WOOF!
Anyway, after this special test Mom and I went to down town St. Paul this past Monday and she talked to the doctor. I did a great job of finding the elivators while we were out and Mom told me what a great boy I was. Anyway, the doctor said that she needed to have some physical therapy to help her knee, and so we'll have to go to that, and she has to keep her knee wrapped up in this thinggie he gave her. So, that's what we've been doing all month long.
Tonight, Mom gave me a bath, BOOOOOO! I hate baths, but I was good Mom said, and I climbed right into the tub and let Mom wash me. She says it's for a day called Thanks Giving which we're going to tomorrow at her parents' house. We were over there this afternoon, and while Mom did lots of chopping of stuff, Marlin and I had to stay tied because someone I didn't know was cleaning the carpets. Anyway, Mom says I'll smell good for tomorrow and I'll feel very soft. I know she'll brush me tomorrow and make sure I look pretty. I love getting brushed. Well, I'm glad to update and I'll be sure to tell all of you guys how the day goes tomorrow. Just after Mom and I came home from Guide Dog school, it was Thanks Giving, and I had to stay on leash with Mom all of the time. Well, anyway, she was walking by the dining room table and I jumped up onto it and just stood there. Hey... it was clear and I thought it was a grooming bench... wouldn't everybody?
I'll write more soon everybody,
Torpedo
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Yesterday and Today
Hi everybody!
Yesterday was so great! Mom gave me tons of treats, like raw venison midallions, tins of deserts with apple and carrot in them, and freeze-dried liver treats. She said it was because yesterday was my birthday. She said I turned 4 yesterday and she sang happy birthday to me. Well, lots of people ended up singing happy birthday to me, and I loved it. It was also the day that Mom and I met for the first time at Guide Dog school.
I remember getting a bath from my trainers that morning, and then they brushed me, and then I had to stay in my kennel all day and I couldn't go to work with any of the trainers. After hanging around my kennel all afternoon, I was brought into a building with tons of new smells. I could smell other dogs and lots of other people, and I was put into this little room in an office. The room I was in had a bed in it, but it was a bed for people, and I wasn't allowed on it.
I waited in there for a little bit while Jeff, the instructor who had walked me up from the kennels went somewhere. I perked up my ears when I heard him come back, and I could smell someone else with him. He was talking to someone and then I heard Mom's voice for the first time. Jeff asked her if she was ready to meet me and she said yes, and then he came back into the little room and got me. He led me out and I stood by Mom while she talked to me. I was my aloof self even then, and just stood there as she petted me.
She told Jeff how soft my fur was, and that she liked how dark I was. He told her who my parents were, and who my sisters were, and that I was the only boy in my lidder. She asked when my birthday was, and he looked at the sheet of paper he had with him and said, that it was that same day. They both said happy birthday to me, and then Mom took me on her new leash and went to her room.
I can't believe it has been two years since that day. I love my home, and my job, and my Auntie Julia, and my big brother Marlin, and especially my Mom. I hope we have many more adventures together. On saturday evening we're going to a very nice restaurant to celebrate Mom graduating from college. We were supposed to do it last spring, but because Mom's grandma died suddenly, things just got put on hold. Mom says she has to brush me, and make sure I'm very very handsome. I'll bet she's going to put some stinky dry shampoo on my fur. She says it smells good, but meh, I think it isn't anything special. At least she gets to brush me... I love that.
Well, night all, Mom just gave me freeze-dried liver treats stuffed into a ball and I'm tired from working to get them out. I'm gonna go to sleep for now.
Yesterday was so great! Mom gave me tons of treats, like raw venison midallions, tins of deserts with apple and carrot in them, and freeze-dried liver treats. She said it was because yesterday was my birthday. She said I turned 4 yesterday and she sang happy birthday to me. Well, lots of people ended up singing happy birthday to me, and I loved it. It was also the day that Mom and I met for the first time at Guide Dog school.
I remember getting a bath from my trainers that morning, and then they brushed me, and then I had to stay in my kennel all day and I couldn't go to work with any of the trainers. After hanging around my kennel all afternoon, I was brought into a building with tons of new smells. I could smell other dogs and lots of other people, and I was put into this little room in an office. The room I was in had a bed in it, but it was a bed for people, and I wasn't allowed on it.
I waited in there for a little bit while Jeff, the instructor who had walked me up from the kennels went somewhere. I perked up my ears when I heard him come back, and I could smell someone else with him. He was talking to someone and then I heard Mom's voice for the first time. Jeff asked her if she was ready to meet me and she said yes, and then he came back into the little room and got me. He led me out and I stood by Mom while she talked to me. I was my aloof self even then, and just stood there as she petted me.
She told Jeff how soft my fur was, and that she liked how dark I was. He told her who my parents were, and who my sisters were, and that I was the only boy in my lidder. She asked when my birthday was, and he looked at the sheet of paper he had with him and said, that it was that same day. They both said happy birthday to me, and then Mom took me on her new leash and went to her room.
I can't believe it has been two years since that day. I love my home, and my job, and my Auntie Julia, and my big brother Marlin, and especially my Mom. I hope we have many more adventures together. On saturday evening we're going to a very nice restaurant to celebrate Mom graduating from college. We were supposed to do it last spring, but because Mom's grandma died suddenly, things just got put on hold. Mom says she has to brush me, and make sure I'm very very handsome. I'll bet she's going to put some stinky dry shampoo on my fur. She says it smells good, but meh, I think it isn't anything special. At least she gets to brush me... I love that.
Well, night all, Mom just gave me freeze-dried liver treats stuffed into a ball and I'm tired from working to get them out. I'm gonna go to sleep for now.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Adventures at the Mall Of America
Hi all,
I meant to blog about this earlier, but after we got home from our adventures, I was so tired that I couldn't do anything but sleep. I think I woke up once later that night to relieve, but that was it.
Anyway, Mom, Auntie Julia and I went out to the Megga Mall with my buddy Kaylor and Dena. Kaylor and I were so excited to get out cause it had been raining for the past week and we hadn't been able to have a decent walk. We loved working in the mall, and we got a lot of comments as we passed by. Mom and Dena got annoied at some of the people who just assumed that we could be petted, even though it was clear we were actually guiding our moms around. We also had some trouble in a restaurant with idiot waiters who didn't understand how to interact with blind people. Also, a kid who looked to Auntie Julia like he was twelve kept whistling at Kaylor whenever he passed by our table. Finally, Dena caught him and told him to quit it.
After we had eaten, we asked to talk to the manager of the restaurant, and when we talked to him, he blew off our concerns. We decided that we would no longer eat there when we came back.
After we had left the restaurant, we went to a book store and Mom got a new book. When she was paying for it, the casheer asked her if, because she was blind, if she prayed for sight. Mom couldn't believe at first what she was hearing, but she just said that she considers her blindness a gift sometimes, and then she grabbed her book and I took her to the exit as fast as I could. After that, we left, but were still hasseled by other people in the mall. I don't understand why people want to touch me all the time when I'm working. I just ignore them and remain my aloof self, but it bugs Mom and I get why.
Once we'd left the Mall we went back to the Barns N Noble in Eagan and hung out there for a while. Kaylor and I got to rest while Auntie Julia and Dena did work for a class project Auntie Julia needed to work on. I helped Mom find another book after a while, and I helped her find the bathroom and get a huge glass of ice water. We were planning to leave at five and go back home, but Dena's husband, Jason, asked us if we wanted to come out for dinner with them instead. We went out for dinner and it was good, but by the end of it both Kaylor and I were tired, and restless from being in harness so long. Mom took me home, and fed me and I went to sleep right away. The day was long and tiring, but very fun in the end.
I meant to blog about this earlier, but after we got home from our adventures, I was so tired that I couldn't do anything but sleep. I think I woke up once later that night to relieve, but that was it.
Anyway, Mom, Auntie Julia and I went out to the Megga Mall with my buddy Kaylor and Dena. Kaylor and I were so excited to get out cause it had been raining for the past week and we hadn't been able to have a decent walk. We loved working in the mall, and we got a lot of comments as we passed by. Mom and Dena got annoied at some of the people who just assumed that we could be petted, even though it was clear we were actually guiding our moms around. We also had some trouble in a restaurant with idiot waiters who didn't understand how to interact with blind people. Also, a kid who looked to Auntie Julia like he was twelve kept whistling at Kaylor whenever he passed by our table. Finally, Dena caught him and told him to quit it.
After we had eaten, we asked to talk to the manager of the restaurant, and when we talked to him, he blew off our concerns. We decided that we would no longer eat there when we came back.
After we had left the restaurant, we went to a book store and Mom got a new book. When she was paying for it, the casheer asked her if, because she was blind, if she prayed for sight. Mom couldn't believe at first what she was hearing, but she just said that she considers her blindness a gift sometimes, and then she grabbed her book and I took her to the exit as fast as I could. After that, we left, but were still hasseled by other people in the mall. I don't understand why people want to touch me all the time when I'm working. I just ignore them and remain my aloof self, but it bugs Mom and I get why.
Once we'd left the Mall we went back to the Barns N Noble in Eagan and hung out there for a while. Kaylor and I got to rest while Auntie Julia and Dena did work for a class project Auntie Julia needed to work on. I helped Mom find another book after a while, and I helped her find the bathroom and get a huge glass of ice water. We were planning to leave at five and go back home, but Dena's husband, Jason, asked us if we wanted to come out for dinner with them instead. We went out for dinner and it was good, but by the end of it both Kaylor and I were tired, and restless from being in harness so long. Mom took me home, and fed me and I went to sleep right away. The day was long and tiring, but very fun in the end.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Hi all,
sorry I haven't updated in a little while. I meant to, but Mom was too tired late in the evenings to let me blog and she always kept turning the computer off when I was just about to start writing. Anyway, now I'm writing again and I'm going to tell you some stuff I wanted to tell you about last week, but never got around too... thanks Mom!
Last Thursday, Mom, Auntie Julia and I went down town to meet our friend Emily for lunch at this restaurant called The News Room. I don't know myself if it's good, but Mom says it's awesome. Anyway, my favorite part was when we got to take the Lite-rail. Mom loves it because it helps her get to where ever she needs to go, and I love it cause I get to go for a ride! OOOh, I get so excited when I see that thing! My ears go up and I shift on my feet to get a better look at the train that's either pulling in or out of the station. Sometimes, I get corrected by Mom because I pull too hard in harness when we're approaching the platform, but I've learned to be better about stuff like that.
Anyway, I loved riding the train, and when we got off we started walking to where we were going to meet Emily. I love working down town. There are lots of things and people for me to guide Mom around and I like being so focused. As we were walking, a dog who wasn't on a leash came up to us. Mom kept trying to get me to just walk away cause she didn't know the dog, and I tried to walk away, but he kept following us. He was friendly, and just wanted to say hi, but Mom was kind of scared because she didn't know what the dog would do. Finally, a man came over and held the dog so we could walk away.
I was good in the restaurant and I just laid down and rested while Mom and the others ate their lunch. After that, we were walking back to catch the train, and some guy came up and hugged me, right on the corner of a busy intersection. Mom told him that he had to stop petting me and he did. I just ignored him. Mom says I'm aloof most of the time with strangers, but I'm ultra-aloof in harness she says. Auntie Julia said later that the guy was homeless and probably mentally ill. He's homeless... hmm, I hope he finds a good home soon.
I love my house. It has a soft blanky inside that I've had since I was a baby when I lived with Tifany, and it has a door which Mom only closes at night. She says I have a tendency to wander around and so she wants me to stay in one spot. Anyway, my home is warm and comfy, and I hope everyone can have one.
On Friday, we went to training again, and Mom found out her scanner doesn't work. On Tuesday we're going in for more computer training, and we'll find out about the scanner then.
Mom still has to take me to the vet for that kennel cough shot, and though I'm glad she's been too busy and has been putting it off, I know eventually she'll get around to it... damn!
Well, I think I've typed myself out for now, but I loved getting this chance to steal Mom's new computer for a little while. It works great and doesn't get burning hot like her last one.
sorry I haven't updated in a little while. I meant to, but Mom was too tired late in the evenings to let me blog and she always kept turning the computer off when I was just about to start writing. Anyway, now I'm writing again and I'm going to tell you some stuff I wanted to tell you about last week, but never got around too... thanks Mom!
Last Thursday, Mom, Auntie Julia and I went down town to meet our friend Emily for lunch at this restaurant called The News Room. I don't know myself if it's good, but Mom says it's awesome. Anyway, my favorite part was when we got to take the Lite-rail. Mom loves it because it helps her get to where ever she needs to go, and I love it cause I get to go for a ride! OOOh, I get so excited when I see that thing! My ears go up and I shift on my feet to get a better look at the train that's either pulling in or out of the station. Sometimes, I get corrected by Mom because I pull too hard in harness when we're approaching the platform, but I've learned to be better about stuff like that.
Anyway, I loved riding the train, and when we got off we started walking to where we were going to meet Emily. I love working down town. There are lots of things and people for me to guide Mom around and I like being so focused. As we were walking, a dog who wasn't on a leash came up to us. Mom kept trying to get me to just walk away cause she didn't know the dog, and I tried to walk away, but he kept following us. He was friendly, and just wanted to say hi, but Mom was kind of scared because she didn't know what the dog would do. Finally, a man came over and held the dog so we could walk away.
I was good in the restaurant and I just laid down and rested while Mom and the others ate their lunch. After that, we were walking back to catch the train, and some guy came up and hugged me, right on the corner of a busy intersection. Mom told him that he had to stop petting me and he did. I just ignored him. Mom says I'm aloof most of the time with strangers, but I'm ultra-aloof in harness she says. Auntie Julia said later that the guy was homeless and probably mentally ill. He's homeless... hmm, I hope he finds a good home soon.
I love my house. It has a soft blanky inside that I've had since I was a baby when I lived with Tifany, and it has a door which Mom only closes at night. She says I have a tendency to wander around and so she wants me to stay in one spot. Anyway, my home is warm and comfy, and I hope everyone can have one.
On Friday, we went to training again, and Mom found out her scanner doesn't work. On Tuesday we're going in for more computer training, and we'll find out about the scanner then.
Mom still has to take me to the vet for that kennel cough shot, and though I'm glad she's been too busy and has been putting it off, I know eventually she'll get around to it... damn!
Well, I think I've typed myself out for now, but I loved getting this chance to steal Mom's new computer for a little while. It works great and doesn't get burning hot like her last one.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
A Bran-spanking New Computer!
Hi you guys!
I'm back and I know it's been a really long time, but Mom finally got a new computer. Let me tell you all about what happened to the last one. Mom tried to work on it one night and it started shaking and making terrible grinding noises, and then, the scarriest thing of all happened, it began to get hot on the left side of the keyboard. I mean it was so hot Mom thought she'd eventually burn her fingers off. When she told Debby about this, Debby said that she shouldn't use the computer anymore, that it was not safe to use. So that's why we've been gone a lot cause Mom won't let me post. Now I can post again, and so here I am.
I've been having lots of fun without the computer though. On Saturday, Mom and I went to the Farmer's market in St. Paul We walked around and I could smell all of the awesome stuff they had there. I didn't mean to, but Auntie Julia said I was drooling when we walked passed the sausage stand. Mom bought lots of herbs and veggies and stuff like that. She says she's going to make stuff with them. She already did tonight when she made chicken with bazle and potatoes.
On Sunday, I got to see all of my doggy buddies at Dena's wedding. I got to see Kaylor and lots of other dogs I didn't know well, but we all got along and things were great. I sat still like a good boy for Mom while she enjoyed herself at the reception, and I didn't even whine during the wedding like some other dogs did. Auntie Julia said I was the good one.
Today I went to training with Mom again, and I was good under the desk again and just hung out with Kelton while our moms did work. On Friday I'm supposed to go in for another training visit, and I'm excited. I always like to go and work. Mom is still looking for a job, and I hope she finds one soon, so we can go somewhere everyday.
Mom got a card in the mail last week saying that I needed another shot, I think she said it was for Kennel cough... eww. I hate that shot cause they spray up your nose and it makes me sneeze. Mom's probably going to take me in tomorrow to get it, but she says it'll be quick and that it won't hurt. I know it won't hurt, but I still hate things being sprayed up my nose.
Bosco, I've missed reading your blog, and so has Mom. We both wanted to be on the computer very badly and so I'm glad we're posting again. I'll post more, now that we have a new computer back and it actually works... yay!
bye for now,
orpedo
I'm back and I know it's been a really long time, but Mom finally got a new computer. Let me tell you all about what happened to the last one. Mom tried to work on it one night and it started shaking and making terrible grinding noises, and then, the scarriest thing of all happened, it began to get hot on the left side of the keyboard. I mean it was so hot Mom thought she'd eventually burn her fingers off. When she told Debby about this, Debby said that she shouldn't use the computer anymore, that it was not safe to use. So that's why we've been gone a lot cause Mom won't let me post. Now I can post again, and so here I am.
I've been having lots of fun without the computer though. On Saturday, Mom and I went to the Farmer's market in St. Paul We walked around and I could smell all of the awesome stuff they had there. I didn't mean to, but Auntie Julia said I was drooling when we walked passed the sausage stand. Mom bought lots of herbs and veggies and stuff like that. She says she's going to make stuff with them. She already did tonight when she made chicken with bazle and potatoes.
On Sunday, I got to see all of my doggy buddies at Dena's wedding. I got to see Kaylor and lots of other dogs I didn't know well, but we all got along and things were great. I sat still like a good boy for Mom while she enjoyed herself at the reception, and I didn't even whine during the wedding like some other dogs did. Auntie Julia said I was the good one.
Today I went to training with Mom again, and I was good under the desk again and just hung out with Kelton while our moms did work. On Friday I'm supposed to go in for another training visit, and I'm excited. I always like to go and work. Mom is still looking for a job, and I hope she finds one soon, so we can go somewhere everyday.
Mom got a card in the mail last week saying that I needed another shot, I think she said it was for Kennel cough... eww. I hate that shot cause they spray up your nose and it makes me sneeze. Mom's probably going to take me in tomorrow to get it, but she says it'll be quick and that it won't hurt. I know it won't hurt, but I still hate things being sprayed up my nose.
Bosco, I've missed reading your blog, and so has Mom. We both wanted to be on the computer very badly and so I'm glad we're posting again. I'll post more, now that we have a new computer back and it actually works... yay!
bye for now,
orpedo
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
The computer... finally!
Hi everybody,
I'm finally allowed to get back to the computer aga Mom was sick all weekend and for the first part of this week so I couldn't get to the computer. Also, Mom thinks her computer is broken and so this weekend she and I are going to her parents' house to look at new computers and such.
Man I was bored without a computer to type on, and I was also bored because Mom didn't take me for a walk like she tries to do on days we don't work, but I couldn't even work! All she wanted to do was lie in bed and caouaugh. I think she's feeling better though because today and yesterday we got to go to training. We're going again tomorrow and I get to see my buddy Kelton again. He and I are good dogs when we're together, but I'd love to get him to play with me, just one time.
Mom kept promising me a long walk down by the river near our home this afternoon, but she never did it. Hmm, maybe when she's feeling better we'll do it. I hope she's feeling much better tomorrow.
One other awesome thing happened today. My brother Marlin came over for a visit this afternoon and now he's staying until tomorrow. We got to play with my toys alot and we ran around Mom's room and growled a lot. I was loud, but Marlin bark-growled and so I guess he was louder. Anyway, Mom and me are both tired and so I think we'll head off to bed now. I'm glad to have finally updated this blog, and I hope Mom gets a new computer soon so that I don't have to stay way for long.
bye now...
I'm finally allowed to get back to the computer aga Mom was sick all weekend and for the first part of this week so I couldn't get to the computer. Also, Mom thinks her computer is broken and so this weekend she and I are going to her parents' house to look at new computers and such.
Man I was bored without a computer to type on, and I was also bored because Mom didn't take me for a walk like she tries to do on days we don't work, but I couldn't even work! All she wanted to do was lie in bed and caouaugh. I think she's feeling better though because today and yesterday we got to go to training. We're going again tomorrow and I get to see my buddy Kelton again. He and I are good dogs when we're together, but I'd love to get him to play with me, just one time.
Mom kept promising me a long walk down by the river near our home this afternoon, but she never did it. Hmm, maybe when she's feeling better we'll do it. I hope she's feeling much better tomorrow.
One other awesome thing happened today. My brother Marlin came over for a visit this afternoon and now he's staying until tomorrow. We got to play with my toys alot and we ran around Mom's room and growled a lot. I was loud, but Marlin bark-growled and so I guess he was louder. Anyway, Mom and me are both tired and so I think we'll head off to bed now. I'm glad to have finally updated this blog, and I hope Mom gets a new computer soon so that I don't have to stay way for long.
bye now...
Friday, September 7, 2007
Strangeness And The Vet
I know, I know... its been a week since I wrote to you all, but there have been some strange things going on in my life. First is, Auntie Julia has been going away for the day and not coming back until later in the day. She did it again this morning, and I miss her. Last year, Mom and I used to do that. We would go to Mom's school everyday on the bus. I love riding the bus, and then I'd have to be still and quiet in class while Mom listened to the professor, and took notes. I was quiet for most of the time, but sometimes, I couldn't help myself and I whined. Mom and her classmates all laughed, but hey, I've gotta express myself somehow, and Mom would've gotten mad if I'd barked.
Anyhoo, this fall, we're not doing those things at all. I miss going to school, and I think Mom misses having something to do everyday. She is still looking for a work that we can go to everyday, but so far, it hasn't happened. Maybe soon she says to me. I hope we can do more things next week, especially since the weather is going to be cooler than it was this week. One day it was so hot that Mom and I just stayed inside all day, except for when Mom took me out to relieve. I didn't like the hot weather at all.
So like I've been saying, our week has been pretty boring, except for last night. I've been taking these pills so I'll not have that rash on my belly anymore, and I've been good and have been taking them everyday, but last night, I had to pee about every half hour, and Mom was worried. Mom and I stayed at her parents' house last night, and we were sleeping just fine. I'd been fine until early this morning, just as it was getting light outside, and then, I woke Mom up by running around the bed. She knew something was wrong, and so she took me outside. I had to go so badly that she didn't even put on a collar for me. We went outside and after I'd peed, I walked away down the hill. I was free and wanted to explore. Mom must've run back inside and grabbed the bag of cookies because the next thing I knew, she was calling me and shaking the bag. I came running, and at first, didn't want to stop. I was free and happy to run, but I love cookies and if she was going to give me some, I was going to stay with her.
We went back inside and she gave both me and my big brother Marlin a cookie, and then she fed me. She called the vet after that, and we went to see Dr. Heidi again. Dr. Heidi was very nice to me, and she took some blood from me, and made me pee in a dish. I was good when she did both those things, and all of my results came back normal. Mom and Heidi don't know what's going on with me having to pee a lot, and I don't know what's going on either, but it is strange.
Now, I'm about to be done with this entry and I'm going to get Mom to brush me out on the deck, so, I'm off for now.
I'll write more soon... bye all.
Anyhoo, this fall, we're not doing those things at all. I miss going to school, and I think Mom misses having something to do everyday. She is still looking for a work that we can go to everyday, but so far, it hasn't happened. Maybe soon she says to me. I hope we can do more things next week, especially since the weather is going to be cooler than it was this week. One day it was so hot that Mom and I just stayed inside all day, except for when Mom took me out to relieve. I didn't like the hot weather at all.
So like I've been saying, our week has been pretty boring, except for last night. I've been taking these pills so I'll not have that rash on my belly anymore, and I've been good and have been taking them everyday, but last night, I had to pee about every half hour, and Mom was worried. Mom and I stayed at her parents' house last night, and we were sleeping just fine. I'd been fine until early this morning, just as it was getting light outside, and then, I woke Mom up by running around the bed. She knew something was wrong, and so she took me outside. I had to go so badly that she didn't even put on a collar for me. We went outside and after I'd peed, I walked away down the hill. I was free and wanted to explore. Mom must've run back inside and grabbed the bag of cookies because the next thing I knew, she was calling me and shaking the bag. I came running, and at first, didn't want to stop. I was free and happy to run, but I love cookies and if she was going to give me some, I was going to stay with her.
We went back inside and she gave both me and my big brother Marlin a cookie, and then she fed me. She called the vet after that, and we went to see Dr. Heidi again. Dr. Heidi was very nice to me, and she took some blood from me, and made me pee in a dish. I was good when she did both those things, and all of my results came back normal. Mom and Heidi don't know what's going on with me having to pee a lot, and I don't know what's going on either, but it is strange.
Now, I'm about to be done with this entry and I'm going to get Mom to brush me out on the deck, so, I'm off for now.
I'll write more soon... bye all.
Friday, August 31, 2007
A Different Week
Hi Everybody!
I haven't written in a long time cause Mom and I hadd a different week. Mom and I went to Mom's job training on Monday and then after we came home Mom, Auntie Julia and I went on our long walk again. At the end of the walk my hip hurt, and Auntie Julia said I was dragging my leg. Mom had been meaning to take me to see Doctor Heidi, my vet, for a while to get my hip looked at, and so she said she'd call the next day. I loved our walk still, and really Mom, my hip doesn't hurt that bad.
Mom and I went to computer training the next day and I was sad cause my buddy Kelton wasn't there.. Debby told Mom he was sick, and Mom hoped he felt better. The next day at computer training he was back, and we were just hanging out under the desks, when all of a sudden the fire alarm went off. Kelton and I were great, and we just guided our Moms outside without a problem. Mom was glad it was just a drill, even though it took away some training time from her and Debby.
The next day was my vet visit, and I got to see Heidi. She was very nice to me as she took me in for X-rays. After they were done, she had another vet, who specializes in dog's legs and hips, come and look at me. He felt my hips and knees, and told Heidi that I was okay. When I got back to Mom, Heidi showed Auntie Julia and Mom the X-rays. She said they looked great. Mom then told her that I had a rash on my belly, and that I'd been biting at it and licking it. Heidi said that she'd seen it, so now Mom puts pills in my food. I'm good, and I eat them, and Mom says I eat my food so fast, that I don't even notice. I think she's right, but come on... my food rocks!
Today we went to see Dena and my buddy Kaylor. Mom, Auntie Julia, Dena, Kaylor and I went out to dinner and I was good, except for when I ate some tomatoes Mom dropped on the floor. I thought they tasted good, but Mom says I'm a lab and that I'll eat anything. After we went to dinner, we came home, and Auntie Julia fed me dinner cause Mom needed to lie down. She had a headache and after I was done eating, I went upstairs and jumped on the bed to cuddle with her. We took a nap, and then, while I was still sleeping, Mom got up and went downstairs to finish her laundry. I woke up later and went to find her. She was sitting downstairs, waiting for her clothes to get finished, and listening to the baseball game on the radio. I said hi to her, explored near my food bin to see if any stray kibbles had been dropped, and then went upstairs to see what Auntie Julia was up to.
Now, I'm writing this entry, and I'm going to end it soon, but I had to tell you all about my week. Tomorrow, I'm going with Mom to her friend Jackie's new house. I love Jackie. She stayed with Mom at her parent's house last summer, and when she left, I looked for her everywhere. Now I get to see her tomorrow, and I'm really excited. I'll probably be tied the whole time, or at least most of it, but as long as I'm there, it's good.
Well, I'm off for now, night all!
I haven't written in a long time cause Mom and I hadd a different week. Mom and I went to Mom's job training on Monday and then after we came home Mom, Auntie Julia and I went on our long walk again. At the end of the walk my hip hurt, and Auntie Julia said I was dragging my leg. Mom had been meaning to take me to see Doctor Heidi, my vet, for a while to get my hip looked at, and so she said she'd call the next day. I loved our walk still, and really Mom, my hip doesn't hurt that bad.
Mom and I went to computer training the next day and I was sad cause my buddy Kelton wasn't there.. Debby told Mom he was sick, and Mom hoped he felt better. The next day at computer training he was back, and we were just hanging out under the desks, when all of a sudden the fire alarm went off. Kelton and I were great, and we just guided our Moms outside without a problem. Mom was glad it was just a drill, even though it took away some training time from her and Debby.
The next day was my vet visit, and I got to see Heidi. She was very nice to me as she took me in for X-rays. After they were done, she had another vet, who specializes in dog's legs and hips, come and look at me. He felt my hips and knees, and told Heidi that I was okay. When I got back to Mom, Heidi showed Auntie Julia and Mom the X-rays. She said they looked great. Mom then told her that I had a rash on my belly, and that I'd been biting at it and licking it. Heidi said that she'd seen it, so now Mom puts pills in my food. I'm good, and I eat them, and Mom says I eat my food so fast, that I don't even notice. I think she's right, but come on... my food rocks!
Today we went to see Dena and my buddy Kaylor. Mom, Auntie Julia, Dena, Kaylor and I went out to dinner and I was good, except for when I ate some tomatoes Mom dropped on the floor. I thought they tasted good, but Mom says I'm a lab and that I'll eat anything. After we went to dinner, we came home, and Auntie Julia fed me dinner cause Mom needed to lie down. She had a headache and after I was done eating, I went upstairs and jumped on the bed to cuddle with her. We took a nap, and then, while I was still sleeping, Mom got up and went downstairs to finish her laundry. I woke up later and went to find her. She was sitting downstairs, waiting for her clothes to get finished, and listening to the baseball game on the radio. I said hi to her, explored near my food bin to see if any stray kibbles had been dropped, and then went upstairs to see what Auntie Julia was up to.
Now, I'm writing this entry, and I'm going to end it soon, but I had to tell you all about my week. Tomorrow, I'm going with Mom to her friend Jackie's new house. I love Jackie. She stayed with Mom at her parent's house last summer, and when she left, I looked for her everywhere. Now I get to see her tomorrow, and I'm really excited. I'll probably be tied the whole time, or at least most of it, but as long as I'm there, it's good.
Well, I'm off for now, night all!
Sunday, August 26, 2007
the weekend
I had a very interesting weekend. Mom, Auntie Julia and I got in the car on Friday to go up to Mom's grandmother's house like I'd talked about. Mom made sure I relieved before we left, and I was glad I went, cause we drove for three hours, and I was good, until it got dark and we were still driving. I started to get restless, and Mom knew I had to go to the bathroom soon. As soon as we got up to the house she let me go out and I relieved. We then got in, and we hung out and watched T.V for a while before going to bed.
The next morning Mom woke up, fed me breakfast, and then took me outside. I loved walking around in the grass with woods all around. There were lots of new smells to investigate, and Mom had to remind me that I was outside to get my morning business done. Mom needs to be reminded that I'm a dog, and that I needed to smell all the new animal and plant smells first. I hope she remembers sometime, but usually she doesn't want me to sniff.
Anyhoo, after that, Mom let me loose in the house so she could help Auntie Julia and Eric pack up things from the house. All three of them began moving in boxes and putting all sorts of things into them. Mom was sitting on the floor and handing things to Auntie Julia from the bottom of a shelf, and she reached over and touched something dark and furry. She started screaming when she realized she'd touched what was left of a dead mouse. I tried to run over to her to see what she was screaming for, but Auntie Julia kept me back so I wouldn't sniff the mouse remains. I'm sorry Mom was so scared, but dead fuzzy creatures smell very interesting.
After the three of them had loaded boxes of canned food and tin pans and things, they began packing boxes with dishes and other glass stuff. They pulled out this funny looking paper which was called Bubble-wrap. I went over to smell it, and Mom made it pop. I got excited at the loud noise and started bouncing and jumping back from the Bubble-wrap. Mom popped it again, and I jumped again. Auntie Julia said I was scared, but I was just excited and only a little nervous I think. I'm not sure how I feel about that Bubble-wrap.
After the three of them were done packing boxes for the day, we all took a nap. I slept on the floor next to the couch Mom was lying o, and after a while, Eric woke Mom up. She and Auntie Julia were going to Church. I don't usually get to go. Mom says I distract her and the other people, but I don't mind not going. Mom isn't gone that long, and I can sleep when I'm alone.
I stayed at the house with Eric while Mom and Auntie Julia were away, and when they came back, Mom fed me dinner and then she, Eric, Auntie Julia and a neighbor went out for supper.
I worked well when we went out, but Mom had to give me a few corrections when I tried to get some food on the floor. I know I'm not supposed to do that, but hey, it's worth a try, and sometimes, I get something.
On Sunday morning when we went to breakfast, Mom dropped an entire piece of toast on the floor. She hadn't noticed it at first, and then she reached down, almost certain the toast had fallen off the plate, and she felt me eating it. I got a correction, cause I know better than to grab people food, and she reached into my mouth. I'd been chewing the toast, but when she gave me the "Out" command, I let go of the toast right away. I was good and she said that I was a good boy. As much as I like toast, I like making my Mom happy more.
They did more packing when we got back to the house, and I was nervous. I thought Mom was going to leave without me so I kept following her around. She said I wasn't going to be left behind, but I only believed that when she put my leash on and grabbed my harness to take with us. She got me into the car, along with a bunch of other stuff, and we drove back home.
When we got home, we went to see some friends, and I got to sit outside for a long time. I liked laying in the grass, and I liked being petted by Mom's friend, Emily. She likes me, and likes giving me pets.
After we got home from that, Mom fed me dinner, and II laid down in the living room. Mom could tell I was tired from the day, and so, while she and Auntie Julia went to meet friends for dinner, I stayed home and watched T.V. Well, I didn't really watch T.V, Mom left it on for me so I wouldn't get lonely, and I slept.
Now, Mom and Auntie Julia are home, and we're all settling in for bed. I think all three of us are tired from the day, but I'll write again soon. Tomorrow Mom and Auntie Julia have more things to do, like going to the grocery store, and going to see Mom's Jobs placement specialist. The next day, Mom and I have training to go to. Mom says it's supposed to be hot tomorrow, and so I hope she remembers I need lots of water. I know she'll remember, she's a good Mom.
night all.
The next morning Mom woke up, fed me breakfast, and then took me outside. I loved walking around in the grass with woods all around. There were lots of new smells to investigate, and Mom had to remind me that I was outside to get my morning business done. Mom needs to be reminded that I'm a dog, and that I needed to smell all the new animal and plant smells first. I hope she remembers sometime, but usually she doesn't want me to sniff.
Anyhoo, after that, Mom let me loose in the house so she could help Auntie Julia and Eric pack up things from the house. All three of them began moving in boxes and putting all sorts of things into them. Mom was sitting on the floor and handing things to Auntie Julia from the bottom of a shelf, and she reached over and touched something dark and furry. She started screaming when she realized she'd touched what was left of a dead mouse. I tried to run over to her to see what she was screaming for, but Auntie Julia kept me back so I wouldn't sniff the mouse remains. I'm sorry Mom was so scared, but dead fuzzy creatures smell very interesting.
After the three of them had loaded boxes of canned food and tin pans and things, they began packing boxes with dishes and other glass stuff. They pulled out this funny looking paper which was called Bubble-wrap. I went over to smell it, and Mom made it pop. I got excited at the loud noise and started bouncing and jumping back from the Bubble-wrap. Mom popped it again, and I jumped again. Auntie Julia said I was scared, but I was just excited and only a little nervous I think. I'm not sure how I feel about that Bubble-wrap.
After the three of them were done packing boxes for the day, we all took a nap. I slept on the floor next to the couch Mom was lying o, and after a while, Eric woke Mom up. She and Auntie Julia were going to Church. I don't usually get to go. Mom says I distract her and the other people, but I don't mind not going. Mom isn't gone that long, and I can sleep when I'm alone.
I stayed at the house with Eric while Mom and Auntie Julia were away, and when they came back, Mom fed me dinner and then she, Eric, Auntie Julia and a neighbor went out for supper.
I worked well when we went out, but Mom had to give me a few corrections when I tried to get some food on the floor. I know I'm not supposed to do that, but hey, it's worth a try, and sometimes, I get something.
On Sunday morning when we went to breakfast, Mom dropped an entire piece of toast on the floor. She hadn't noticed it at first, and then she reached down, almost certain the toast had fallen off the plate, and she felt me eating it. I got a correction, cause I know better than to grab people food, and she reached into my mouth. I'd been chewing the toast, but when she gave me the "Out" command, I let go of the toast right away. I was good and she said that I was a good boy. As much as I like toast, I like making my Mom happy more.
They did more packing when we got back to the house, and I was nervous. I thought Mom was going to leave without me so I kept following her around. She said I wasn't going to be left behind, but I only believed that when she put my leash on and grabbed my harness to take with us. She got me into the car, along with a bunch of other stuff, and we drove back home.
When we got home, we went to see some friends, and I got to sit outside for a long time. I liked laying in the grass, and I liked being petted by Mom's friend, Emily. She likes me, and likes giving me pets.
After we got home from that, Mom fed me dinner, and II laid down in the living room. Mom could tell I was tired from the day, and so, while she and Auntie Julia went to meet friends for dinner, I stayed home and watched T.V. Well, I didn't really watch T.V, Mom left it on for me so I wouldn't get lonely, and I slept.
Now, Mom and Auntie Julia are home, and we're all settling in for bed. I think all three of us are tired from the day, but I'll write again soon. Tomorrow Mom and Auntie Julia have more things to do, like going to the grocery store, and going to see Mom's Jobs placement specialist. The next day, Mom and I have training to go to. Mom says it's supposed to be hot tomorrow, and so I hope she remembers I need lots of water. I know she'll remember, she's a good Mom.
night all.
Friday, August 24, 2007
Working and Walking
Hi everybody,
I've had a great day so far. Mom and II got up early today so she could go to training. I was still in my crate when I heard her get up, and I listened as she went into Auntie Julia's room to wake her up so we could get a ride to Mom's training. Auntie Julia said she felt very sick with a tummy-ache, and she didn't feel like she could drive. Mom said that was okay, and so we had to figure out what else to do.
Mom got me out of my crate after she'd gotten dressed, and then we went downstairs. I waited as Mom called her mom, Katie, to ask her if she'd give us a ride. We would've taken the bus, but by this time it was too late. Katie said she'd take us, and so we had to wait for her.
Mom took me outside, and it was nice to see that it was sunny again. It hasn't been sunny all week, and we both liked the sun. After I relieved we went back inside and Mom fed me breakfast. I get more food in the morning now because Mom thinks I could stand to gain afew pounds. I love getting more food so if that's what Mom thinks, I'm happy to eat it.
After breakfast, Mom watched Television for a bit while we waited for Katie to come over. When Katie knocked at the door, I barked, but Mom only had to tell me to be quiet once and I was good after that. Mom went upstairs and got her computer and then we were finally off to training.
I hung out under the desks with my buddy Kelton while our Moms worked. After a while, I really needed to pee, and so I did what I usually do. I started to lean on Mom. I started to put my head on her knee, and then I rested it on her chest and groaned a little, to let her know I was serious about needing to go outside. She laughed and took me out, and then when we got back, she offered to take Kelton for Debby since she was doing something with Mom's computer. Debby said she could and I sat with Debby while Mom took Kelton outside. I like Debby. She gives me lots of pets and I love to snuggle with her.
After we came home from training, Mom ate lunch with Auntie Julia and then we all went on a long walk. I'd been on this walk before with Auntie Julia, but never with Mom. We showed her where we were supposed to go, and she loved the walk. We go from our house all the way down to the River Road. Mom wants to take me for a walk on the River Road, and I think we should do that. Mom and Auntie Julia want to bring my brother Marlin on the walk cause they think it would be good for him. I think he'd love it too cause we all love walks.
Now, I'm finishing this entry and then Mom is going to get her stuff ready to go to her Grandmother's house. This is why I love being a guide dog. I almost never have to be left behind at home, and I love going everywhere with Mom.
see you all later.
I've had a great day so far. Mom and II got up early today so she could go to training. I was still in my crate when I heard her get up, and I listened as she went into Auntie Julia's room to wake her up so we could get a ride to Mom's training. Auntie Julia said she felt very sick with a tummy-ache, and she didn't feel like she could drive. Mom said that was okay, and so we had to figure out what else to do.
Mom got me out of my crate after she'd gotten dressed, and then we went downstairs. I waited as Mom called her mom, Katie, to ask her if she'd give us a ride. We would've taken the bus, but by this time it was too late. Katie said she'd take us, and so we had to wait for her.
Mom took me outside, and it was nice to see that it was sunny again. It hasn't been sunny all week, and we both liked the sun. After I relieved we went back inside and Mom fed me breakfast. I get more food in the morning now because Mom thinks I could stand to gain afew pounds. I love getting more food so if that's what Mom thinks, I'm happy to eat it.
After breakfast, Mom watched Television for a bit while we waited for Katie to come over. When Katie knocked at the door, I barked, but Mom only had to tell me to be quiet once and I was good after that. Mom went upstairs and got her computer and then we were finally off to training.
I hung out under the desks with my buddy Kelton while our Moms worked. After a while, I really needed to pee, and so I did what I usually do. I started to lean on Mom. I started to put my head on her knee, and then I rested it on her chest and groaned a little, to let her know I was serious about needing to go outside. She laughed and took me out, and then when we got back, she offered to take Kelton for Debby since she was doing something with Mom's computer. Debby said she could and I sat with Debby while Mom took Kelton outside. I like Debby. She gives me lots of pets and I love to snuggle with her.
After we came home from training, Mom ate lunch with Auntie Julia and then we all went on a long walk. I'd been on this walk before with Auntie Julia, but never with Mom. We showed her where we were supposed to go, and she loved the walk. We go from our house all the way down to the River Road. Mom wants to take me for a walk on the River Road, and I think we should do that. Mom and Auntie Julia want to bring my brother Marlin on the walk cause they think it would be good for him. I think he'd love it too cause we all love walks.
Now, I'm finishing this entry and then Mom is going to get her stuff ready to go to her Grandmother's house. This is why I love being a guide dog. I almost never have to be left behind at home, and I love going everywhere with Mom.
see you all later.
Lots of Work
Hi all,
this is going to be a shorter entry than they usually are because I'm tired and I wanna go to bed soon. Anyway, on Wensday night, Mom and I found out that I can't digest turkey necks very well. Mom was sleeping and I began to feel sick. I started making throw-up sounds, and Mom jumped out of bed and ran to where I was. She tried to get me to the bathroom floor, but it was too late, and I gagged. We looked down, expecting to see my supper all over the floor, but it wasn't there. Mom couldn't find any mess. I made the barfing sounds three more times that night, and felt sick on top of it,, so I don't think Mom got much sleep, but I didn't throw anything up. Mom has decided that I can't have turkey anymore, and that I can have chicken legs if I want to eat raw bird parts. On Thursday afternoon, Mom gave me some venison pieces, and I ate those up, and they didn't make me sick. She told me that I can eat those from now on... yay, I get to eat Bambi!
Mom and I had to get up early today so we could be ready for the phone guys I told you about. I know I wasn't supposed to, but I forgot and barked at the door when they knocked. Mom told me to be quiet, and after one big bark, and a little woof, I was good. The phone guys were very nice to Mom and Auntie Julia. They tried to do all they could to fix their phone problems, and when they couldn't help anymore, they fixed some outlet in Mom's room. I think the best part though about them was that they played with me! They played tug with me and they liked to pet me. I loved the play time, and Mom said I'd made instant friends. I tend to do that.
After they'd left, Mom, Auntie Julia and I went out to lunch, and then to Mom's parents' house. I hung out with Marlin for a while and then Mom and I took a much needed nap upstairs.
Mom worked at her computer for a while, and I think later she told Auntie Julia that she'd applied for a job. I hope she gets a job. I love to work and if we can go somewhere every day, it'll be awesome. Tomorrow we're doing something. I get to see Kelton and Debby again for Mom's training, and then after that I don't know what we're doing. Mom told me she doesn't know if we're going to her grandmother's house tomorrow, or on Saturday morning. Whenever we go, I know it'll be fun. There's lots of interesting smells up there.
Well, I'm really tired and so I think I'm going to snuggle up in my crate. Mom and I have to wake up kind of early tomorrow.
Night all!
this is going to be a shorter entry than they usually are because I'm tired and I wanna go to bed soon. Anyway, on Wensday night, Mom and I found out that I can't digest turkey necks very well. Mom was sleeping and I began to feel sick. I started making throw-up sounds, and Mom jumped out of bed and ran to where I was. She tried to get me to the bathroom floor, but it was too late, and I gagged. We looked down, expecting to see my supper all over the floor, but it wasn't there. Mom couldn't find any mess. I made the barfing sounds three more times that night, and felt sick on top of it,, so I don't think Mom got much sleep, but I didn't throw anything up. Mom has decided that I can't have turkey anymore, and that I can have chicken legs if I want to eat raw bird parts. On Thursday afternoon, Mom gave me some venison pieces, and I ate those up, and they didn't make me sick. She told me that I can eat those from now on... yay, I get to eat Bambi!
Mom and I had to get up early today so we could be ready for the phone guys I told you about. I know I wasn't supposed to, but I forgot and barked at the door when they knocked. Mom told me to be quiet, and after one big bark, and a little woof, I was good. The phone guys were very nice to Mom and Auntie Julia. They tried to do all they could to fix their phone problems, and when they couldn't help anymore, they fixed some outlet in Mom's room. I think the best part though about them was that they played with me! They played tug with me and they liked to pet me. I loved the play time, and Mom said I'd made instant friends. I tend to do that.
After they'd left, Mom, Auntie Julia and I went out to lunch, and then to Mom's parents' house. I hung out with Marlin for a while and then Mom and I took a much needed nap upstairs.
Mom worked at her computer for a while, and I think later she told Auntie Julia that she'd applied for a job. I hope she gets a job. I love to work and if we can go somewhere every day, it'll be awesome. Tomorrow we're doing something. I get to see Kelton and Debby again for Mom's training, and then after that I don't know what we're doing. Mom told me she doesn't know if we're going to her grandmother's house tomorrow, or on Saturday morning. Whenever we go, I know it'll be fun. There's lots of interesting smells up there.
Well, I'm really tired and so I think I'm going to snuggle up in my crate. Mom and I have to wake up kind of early tomorrow.
Night all!
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Friends
I have lots of friends, and I got to see two of them today. One of them I told you about last night, Mom's trainer's dog, Kelton. I got to see him today, but we didn't do much because Mom was training. We did get to sniff a little, and both of us wanted attention at one time or another, but the only time we got to really say hi was when our moms took us out to relieve after they were done working. I get to see Kelton and his mom Debby on Friday again before we leave for the weekend.
Mom and I are going up to Mom's grandmother's house this weekend with Eric and Auntie Julia. Mom's grandma died this past Spring, and she was sad for a while. She would cry a lot and I would have to snuggle with her to make her feel better. Sometimes when she cries I run and get my toys. I'll bring her my squeaky toys or Woobie, or a bone for her to hold. I figure, if this won't cheer her up, nothing will. I mean... seriously, toys always make me feel loads better.
After training today Mom and I waited for Auntie Julia to pick us up, and then Mom told me we were going to see Dena and my favorite golden retriever buddy, Kaylor. I love playing with Kaylor, and I love visiting with Dena. She's nice to me, and she gives me treats and lots of pets when I'm off harness. I stayed at her house once, and I was good for the most part, but I can't help myself and I love to wander around, just exploring. For some reason known only to them, none of my human companions like this exploring, and they always call me back. I don't get it, I'm just wandering, and honestly, can't they see I'm busy when they're calling my name? Wow, Humans are demanding!
Mom and Auntie stopped for lunch, and after that we went and picked up Dena and Kaylor. We drove a while in the car, and then we went to my favorite store. Chuck and Dons, yay! They have all sorts of awesome treats there and they even have raw stuff... yum! Mom got me some turkey necks and venison medallions to eat. I can hardly wait to bust those out and eat away. We also saw a puppy in there, and Mom and Dena said it was really cute. I like puppies all right. I grew up with lots around before I went back to school. Now that I live with Mom I've only seen a few. I think they're okay, but if they try to bite my ears, I growl and bark... back off pup.
Speaking of weird dogs, Mom took me outside this morning, and there was this little pug dog I'd never seen before out there. Mom let me go up to it, and the thing started screaching and barking. I backed away and just looked at her. I have know idea what her problem was, and neither did her owner or Mom.
Anyhoo, after we went to Chuck and Dons we went to a place called Caribou coffee. I was doing my work, as usual, leading Mom from the parking lot, and I looked up to make sure that Mom didn't get nailed by a bike which was mounted on the back of someone's car. All I did was look up and check to see if Mom was out of the way, and after Auntie Julia pointed this out, Mom bent down and gave me a huge hug, and told me what an awesome boy I was. Just a word to Mom, seriously, it's not that big a deal. I was trained to do that, and I'm supposed to look out for you, it's my job. I guess, cause Mom can't see at all from that side, it was pretty awesome to her.
I must've been a really good boy because of that though, cause I got to run around with Kaylor outside in Dena's yard when we were done working. We were having fun, but Kaylor kept trying to climb on me to show me he was boss. I didn't like that at all, and I whirled around and barked at him. Woof! I'll tolerate that from little tiny puppies, but not big dogs like Kaylor. He understood though, and we kept playing until we'd gotten all the energies out.
After that, Mom, Auntie Julia and I went back to Mom's parents' house. I got to see my brother Marlin, and Mom gave us both yummy treats from the store. Oh yeah, I couldn't leave without telling you all this. Mom gave me a turkey neck for supper tonight. Ah... turkey necks are sooo goooood! I mean, it's like, doggy gourmet! I ate it all up and Mom said I'd get another one for breakfast tomorrow.
I'm sorry I haven't been able to write until now, but Mom's been hogging the computer for the entire evening. She said something about writing a cover letter... what ever that is, and so I couldn't get at the keyboard until now. Anyway, I'm glad I got to write, and I should go anyway, cause we have to get up early tomorrow to make sure we can meet the phone guys on time. They're supposed to come and get the phones set up correctly this time. Mom told me, if they don't do it right, I should bite them, but I don't want to, I think it's my breeding or something.
Well, night all. I'm going to see what Mom's up too, or play with Marlin, I haven't decided yet.
Mom and I are going up to Mom's grandmother's house this weekend with Eric and Auntie Julia. Mom's grandma died this past Spring, and she was sad for a while. She would cry a lot and I would have to snuggle with her to make her feel better. Sometimes when she cries I run and get my toys. I'll bring her my squeaky toys or Woobie, or a bone for her to hold. I figure, if this won't cheer her up, nothing will. I mean... seriously, toys always make me feel loads better.
After training today Mom and I waited for Auntie Julia to pick us up, and then Mom told me we were going to see Dena and my favorite golden retriever buddy, Kaylor. I love playing with Kaylor, and I love visiting with Dena. She's nice to me, and she gives me treats and lots of pets when I'm off harness. I stayed at her house once, and I was good for the most part, but I can't help myself and I love to wander around, just exploring. For some reason known only to them, none of my human companions like this exploring, and they always call me back. I don't get it, I'm just wandering, and honestly, can't they see I'm busy when they're calling my name? Wow, Humans are demanding!
Mom and Auntie stopped for lunch, and after that we went and picked up Dena and Kaylor. We drove a while in the car, and then we went to my favorite store. Chuck and Dons, yay! They have all sorts of awesome treats there and they even have raw stuff... yum! Mom got me some turkey necks and venison medallions to eat. I can hardly wait to bust those out and eat away. We also saw a puppy in there, and Mom and Dena said it was really cute. I like puppies all right. I grew up with lots around before I went back to school. Now that I live with Mom I've only seen a few. I think they're okay, but if they try to bite my ears, I growl and bark... back off pup.
Speaking of weird dogs, Mom took me outside this morning, and there was this little pug dog I'd never seen before out there. Mom let me go up to it, and the thing started screaching and barking. I backed away and just looked at her. I have know idea what her problem was, and neither did her owner or Mom.
Anyhoo, after we went to Chuck and Dons we went to a place called Caribou coffee. I was doing my work, as usual, leading Mom from the parking lot, and I looked up to make sure that Mom didn't get nailed by a bike which was mounted on the back of someone's car. All I did was look up and check to see if Mom was out of the way, and after Auntie Julia pointed this out, Mom bent down and gave me a huge hug, and told me what an awesome boy I was. Just a word to Mom, seriously, it's not that big a deal. I was trained to do that, and I'm supposed to look out for you, it's my job. I guess, cause Mom can't see at all from that side, it was pretty awesome to her.
I must've been a really good boy because of that though, cause I got to run around with Kaylor outside in Dena's yard when we were done working. We were having fun, but Kaylor kept trying to climb on me to show me he was boss. I didn't like that at all, and I whirled around and barked at him. Woof! I'll tolerate that from little tiny puppies, but not big dogs like Kaylor. He understood though, and we kept playing until we'd gotten all the energies out.
After that, Mom, Auntie Julia and I went back to Mom's parents' house. I got to see my brother Marlin, and Mom gave us both yummy treats from the store. Oh yeah, I couldn't leave without telling you all this. Mom gave me a turkey neck for supper tonight. Ah... turkey necks are sooo goooood! I mean, it's like, doggy gourmet! I ate it all up and Mom said I'd get another one for breakfast tomorrow.
I'm sorry I haven't been able to write until now, but Mom's been hogging the computer for the entire evening. She said something about writing a cover letter... what ever that is, and so I couldn't get at the keyboard until now. Anyway, I'm glad I got to write, and I should go anyway, cause we have to get up early tomorrow to make sure we can meet the phone guys on time. They're supposed to come and get the phones set up correctly this time. Mom told me, if they don't do it right, I should bite them, but I don't want to, I think it's my breeding or something.
Well, night all. I'm going to see what Mom's up too, or play with Marlin, I haven't decided yet.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
phones and naps
hi all,
Mom and I had quite the day. We got up, and waited for the phone guy to come and hook up the Land-Line to the house. When the guy knocked on the door, I barked, but I was a good boy and remembered that Mom doesn't like me to bark anymore at the door, so I only barked once.
I was really good when the guy was setting up the phone because when I went over to see what he was doing, Mom called me back to her and I went back right away. While he was setting up the phone, I started to whine, and Mom didn't know what I wanted. She's a silly person because she thought I wanted to go outside, even though I'd already been out there earlier. She took me out and I didn't need to go potty, but I really liked sniffing the Comcast guy's truck. I went all around it and just sniffed and sniffed. Mom was wondering what I smelled, and I'm not even sure what it was I smelled, but it sure smelled interesting.
After the phone guy left Mom talked to her Dad, Eric, and they determined that the Comcast guy didn't put the phone in the way he was supposed to, so Mom had to schedule another appointment for the guys to come out again on Thursday and redo the entire thing. She was upset about this, but not much cause she and Auntie Julia still have a phone.
After she was done talking to her dad, and after Auntie Julia went to the store to get fresh milk and some other stuff, she finally figured out what I wanted. I began whimpering again, and staring at Mom and wagging my tail. She looked at me and asked what I wanted.
Wag Wag Wag, Whine Whine Whine!
I finally went and grabbed my three-sided tug ring, which Mom and everyone else calls Woobie, and I pranced out in front of her and was getting really excited. I finally got so excited that I began to bark. Mom laughed a little, and so I barked again. I think she figured, if she ignored me, I'd stop barking with the toy in my mouth, and she's usually right about that. Whenever I stop barking with a toy in my mouth Mom rewards me by playing with me once I'm quiet. Well, this time I dropped Woobie and Mom was just about to pick it up, when I barked again. Mom got mad at me, and she put Woobie away so I couldn't play, but seriously, what does she expect? I'm a dog, and I'm excited, and it's my favorite toy ever!
After that, Mom forgave me and let me have a beefy chewy stick, which I just loved. I ate the whole thing while Mom fixed lunch for herself and Auntie Julia. Once lunch was over, Mom and I went upstairs, and while I curled up on the bed, Mom played around on the computer. She is listening to XM radio right now as I type to all of you. We were listening to the baseball game, but the Twins are losing again and so she switched to Jazz. Plus, she was having trouble paying attention to the computer and to the game all at once. Also, she finds Jazz very relaxing.
Anyhoo, after she'd played around on the computer, she and I took a nap. There's nothing like naps with Mom. I get to be on the bed, for one, and two, I get to snuggle with Mom. I love to snuggle, and Mom says that I'm like a big stuffed animal. Apparently I smell good too. I don't know how I smell. To me, I smell normal, like a dog should, and the stinkyer I am, the more I like it. Mom and I napped and were woken up by a very loud plane which flew right over the house, but that was okay. Mom and I needed to get up anyway after a while.
When Mom had gotten up, I really... really needed to pee so Mom took me out. There was a squirrel sitting on the garbage bins in the alley where I relieve, and I stared at it, hoping I could chase it, but it saw me and scrambled off the trash can and up into the yard next door. I was on a leash too so I couldn't get it. I'm not really interested in chasing squirrels or bunnies, and Mom says that it's because I have a low prey-drive, what ever that is. My brother Marlin loves to chase little animals and he stares at them all of the time.
When we came in, I began to bug Mom for dinner. I do this by sitting in front of her and beginning to stare at her face. After a while of this, I put my paw on her lap, then the next paw, then I drop them back onto the floor and start again. Eventually she gets the idea and feeds me.
Yum, I love my food! Mom feeds me a food called, Natural Balance, and the formula is called Potato and Duck. I love it, and Mom tells me that it's good for me. I guess it is, cause I love it, and people always tell me how beautiful I am, and that I have a shiney coat. I think I look nice, but who cares anyway, I love my food.
After I got dinner, Mom and Auntie Julia left. Mom wanted to take me with, and I knew she did, and because I hadn't worked in my harness all day, I made sad eyes at her so she'd take me. I could tell she really wanted to bring me along, but she and Auntie Julia decided it would be too crowded where they were going. She said she was sorry, and I saw her take out her long white stick, or what she calls a cane. I don't like canes.
One time, Mom and I were at this big hotel with tons of people, and there were lots of other guide dogs like me there, but there were lots of canes there too, and they were swinging back and forth. I got scared and kept glancing at them because I thought they would hit me. Mom was nervous too because she didn't want me hit. I wasn't ever hit hard, but once, a guy poked me with his cane and I moved closer to Mom. I really don't like canes.
I stayed home with the television on while Mom and Auntie Julia went out. When they got back, they smelled like they'd been to a restaurant, and they smelled like they'd been with other people. I sniffed them, and then Auntie Julia took me outside to relieve. After I came in, I went upstairs with Mom and now I'm almost done with this entry.
Tomorrow, Mom and I have to get up early so we can go to training, at least that's what Mom calls training. Trust me Mom, I've been to training, and it's nothing like what you do. At my training, my trainers showed me all of the things I'd need to know so I could guide you places, and it was hard. All I do at this kind of training is sleep under a desk. Mom sits at a computer with another person who teaches her things on the computer. I guess it's training for Mom, and not me, but there is a fun part. My Mom's computer trainer is also blind and she has a guide dog too. He doesn't look like me though, he's big and black, and I'm smallish and yellow. He's very nice though and we have fun sniffing each other and following each other around to sniff butts. We settle down under the desks when our moms are working though, and only nudge them when we have to relieve. My friend's name is Kelton, and I'm excited to see him tomorrow.
I'm going to be done for now though. I'll tell you all about training tomorrow though, and I'll tell you about the other stuff we have to do this week too. For now, here's a tail wag and a little labby kiss from me to you.
Torpedo
Mom and I had quite the day. We got up, and waited for the phone guy to come and hook up the Land-Line to the house. When the guy knocked on the door, I barked, but I was a good boy and remembered that Mom doesn't like me to bark anymore at the door, so I only barked once.
I was really good when the guy was setting up the phone because when I went over to see what he was doing, Mom called me back to her and I went back right away. While he was setting up the phone, I started to whine, and Mom didn't know what I wanted. She's a silly person because she thought I wanted to go outside, even though I'd already been out there earlier. She took me out and I didn't need to go potty, but I really liked sniffing the Comcast guy's truck. I went all around it and just sniffed and sniffed. Mom was wondering what I smelled, and I'm not even sure what it was I smelled, but it sure smelled interesting.
After the phone guy left Mom talked to her Dad, Eric, and they determined that the Comcast guy didn't put the phone in the way he was supposed to, so Mom had to schedule another appointment for the guys to come out again on Thursday and redo the entire thing. She was upset about this, but not much cause she and Auntie Julia still have a phone.
After she was done talking to her dad, and after Auntie Julia went to the store to get fresh milk and some other stuff, she finally figured out what I wanted. I began whimpering again, and staring at Mom and wagging my tail. She looked at me and asked what I wanted.
Wag Wag Wag, Whine Whine Whine!
I finally went and grabbed my three-sided tug ring, which Mom and everyone else calls Woobie, and I pranced out in front of her and was getting really excited. I finally got so excited that I began to bark. Mom laughed a little, and so I barked again. I think she figured, if she ignored me, I'd stop barking with the toy in my mouth, and she's usually right about that. Whenever I stop barking with a toy in my mouth Mom rewards me by playing with me once I'm quiet. Well, this time I dropped Woobie and Mom was just about to pick it up, when I barked again. Mom got mad at me, and she put Woobie away so I couldn't play, but seriously, what does she expect? I'm a dog, and I'm excited, and it's my favorite toy ever!
After that, Mom forgave me and let me have a beefy chewy stick, which I just loved. I ate the whole thing while Mom fixed lunch for herself and Auntie Julia. Once lunch was over, Mom and I went upstairs, and while I curled up on the bed, Mom played around on the computer. She is listening to XM radio right now as I type to all of you. We were listening to the baseball game, but the Twins are losing again and so she switched to Jazz. Plus, she was having trouble paying attention to the computer and to the game all at once. Also, she finds Jazz very relaxing.
Anyhoo, after she'd played around on the computer, she and I took a nap. There's nothing like naps with Mom. I get to be on the bed, for one, and two, I get to snuggle with Mom. I love to snuggle, and Mom says that I'm like a big stuffed animal. Apparently I smell good too. I don't know how I smell. To me, I smell normal, like a dog should, and the stinkyer I am, the more I like it. Mom and I napped and were woken up by a very loud plane which flew right over the house, but that was okay. Mom and I needed to get up anyway after a while.
When Mom had gotten up, I really... really needed to pee so Mom took me out. There was a squirrel sitting on the garbage bins in the alley where I relieve, and I stared at it, hoping I could chase it, but it saw me and scrambled off the trash can and up into the yard next door. I was on a leash too so I couldn't get it. I'm not really interested in chasing squirrels or bunnies, and Mom says that it's because I have a low prey-drive, what ever that is. My brother Marlin loves to chase little animals and he stares at them all of the time.
When we came in, I began to bug Mom for dinner. I do this by sitting in front of her and beginning to stare at her face. After a while of this, I put my paw on her lap, then the next paw, then I drop them back onto the floor and start again. Eventually she gets the idea and feeds me.
Yum, I love my food! Mom feeds me a food called, Natural Balance, and the formula is called Potato and Duck. I love it, and Mom tells me that it's good for me. I guess it is, cause I love it, and people always tell me how beautiful I am, and that I have a shiney coat. I think I look nice, but who cares anyway, I love my food.
After I got dinner, Mom and Auntie Julia left. Mom wanted to take me with, and I knew she did, and because I hadn't worked in my harness all day, I made sad eyes at her so she'd take me. I could tell she really wanted to bring me along, but she and Auntie Julia decided it would be too crowded where they were going. She said she was sorry, and I saw her take out her long white stick, or what she calls a cane. I don't like canes.
One time, Mom and I were at this big hotel with tons of people, and there were lots of other guide dogs like me there, but there were lots of canes there too, and they were swinging back and forth. I got scared and kept glancing at them because I thought they would hit me. Mom was nervous too because she didn't want me hit. I wasn't ever hit hard, but once, a guy poked me with his cane and I moved closer to Mom. I really don't like canes.
I stayed home with the television on while Mom and Auntie Julia went out. When they got back, they smelled like they'd been to a restaurant, and they smelled like they'd been with other people. I sniffed them, and then Auntie Julia took me outside to relieve. After I came in, I went upstairs with Mom and now I'm almost done with this entry.
Tomorrow, Mom and I have to get up early so we can go to training, at least that's what Mom calls training. Trust me Mom, I've been to training, and it's nothing like what you do. At my training, my trainers showed me all of the things I'd need to know so I could guide you places, and it was hard. All I do at this kind of training is sleep under a desk. Mom sits at a computer with another person who teaches her things on the computer. I guess it's training for Mom, and not me, but there is a fun part. My Mom's computer trainer is also blind and she has a guide dog too. He doesn't look like me though, he's big and black, and I'm smallish and yellow. He's very nice though and we have fun sniffing each other and following each other around to sniff butts. We settle down under the desks when our moms are working though, and only nudge them when we have to relieve. My friend's name is Kelton, and I'm excited to see him tomorrow.
I'm going to be done for now though. I'll tell you all about training tomorrow though, and I'll tell you about the other stuff we have to do this week too. For now, here's a tail wag and a little labby kiss from me to you.
Torpedo
Monday, August 20, 2007
my first post
Well, I'm not exactly sure how to work this thing, but if I really screw it up, I'll have my mom, Laura, go back and delete this post later. As you've guessed, I'm a guide dog, and I help my mom out when she's gotta go somewhere like the store or the doctor's office or someplace like that.
She's bitching right now about how this blog isn't as accessible as she would like it to be, though she doesn't think it's the blog web site owner's fault cause she knows plenty of other blind people who use this site and they don't seem to have any problems. She'll call her friend, also known as, Auntie Dena tomorrow and ask her how to make the blog accessible.
Anyway, today was not boring in the slightest. First, Mom woke up late, and I didn't like that cause I had to sit in my crate for a while as she got her lazy ass in gear. I was a good boy though and didn't bark. I've only barked twice while in my crate and it's been a while since that. I didn't even bark the time I had an accident in my crate and so Mom was impressed. Anyhoo, Mom finally got up and took me out and fed me breakfast. Then we hung around the house for a while as Mom's twin sister, Auntie Julia, as she forever will be known on this blog, got ready to go. Mom had made a vet appointment for my big brother Marlin, the guide who worked for Mom before me, cause he has an ear infection.
We went to Mom's Parent's house and grabbed Marlin and went to the vet. We were late, but the staff didn't care.
There was this big white fluffy dog there, and she was apparently dog aggressive. I found that out when she growled at me from the corner very loudly. I wasn't afraid though cause Mom is very calm in situations like that and she just kept me close to her and told me to lie down. Wow, look Mom! I actually wrote the correct grammar for that last sentence, your English degree is rubbing off on me.
Anyhoo, after we'd gotten into the exam room I was calm, but Marlin was bouncing everywhere and panting. Auntie Julia said he was stressed... go figure. Just a word to Marlin, Dude, relax, there's nothing to be afraid of at the vet's. Well, except for maybe when they stick a gloved finger up your ass and try to squeeze your butt to death. Sorry to get grafic folks, but that's what happens in a dog's life.
We went back home then and Mom got dinner started for her and Auntie Julia. I came down from snoozing upstairs on Mom's bed and began staring at her for dinner. She got the hint and fed me, and then she and Auntie Julia ate their dinner. After that, Mom and I went back upstairs to her room, and I curled up on her bed while she scanned documents into her computer. I slept a while longer, and then came back downstairs to be with Mom and Auntie Julia. I grabbed Mom's empty water bottle and thought it was a toy. I began chewing on it and growling like mad. Mom played with me a little bit, and then, she got tired, and so after relieving me one more time, we came back up here again.
Now, Mom and I are both tired and so I think we'll shove off to bed now. The phone guys are supposed to come and hook up the land line tomorrow afternoon, and so Mom wants to be up early for that. I'll write more soon, night all,
Torpedo
She's bitching right now about how this blog isn't as accessible as she would like it to be, though she doesn't think it's the blog web site owner's fault cause she knows plenty of other blind people who use this site and they don't seem to have any problems. She'll call her friend, also known as, Auntie Dena tomorrow and ask her how to make the blog accessible.
Anyway, today was not boring in the slightest. First, Mom woke up late, and I didn't like that cause I had to sit in my crate for a while as she got her lazy ass in gear. I was a good boy though and didn't bark. I've only barked twice while in my crate and it's been a while since that. I didn't even bark the time I had an accident in my crate and so Mom was impressed. Anyhoo, Mom finally got up and took me out and fed me breakfast. Then we hung around the house for a while as Mom's twin sister, Auntie Julia, as she forever will be known on this blog, got ready to go. Mom had made a vet appointment for my big brother Marlin, the guide who worked for Mom before me, cause he has an ear infection.
We went to Mom's Parent's house and grabbed Marlin and went to the vet. We were late, but the staff didn't care.
There was this big white fluffy dog there, and she was apparently dog aggressive. I found that out when she growled at me from the corner very loudly. I wasn't afraid though cause Mom is very calm in situations like that and she just kept me close to her and told me to lie down. Wow, look Mom! I actually wrote the correct grammar for that last sentence, your English degree is rubbing off on me.
Anyhoo, after we'd gotten into the exam room I was calm, but Marlin was bouncing everywhere and panting. Auntie Julia said he was stressed... go figure. Just a word to Marlin, Dude, relax, there's nothing to be afraid of at the vet's. Well, except for maybe when they stick a gloved finger up your ass and try to squeeze your butt to death. Sorry to get grafic folks, but that's what happens in a dog's life.
We went back home then and Mom got dinner started for her and Auntie Julia. I came down from snoozing upstairs on Mom's bed and began staring at her for dinner. She got the hint and fed me, and then she and Auntie Julia ate their dinner. After that, Mom and I went back upstairs to her room, and I curled up on her bed while she scanned documents into her computer. I slept a while longer, and then came back downstairs to be with Mom and Auntie Julia. I grabbed Mom's empty water bottle and thought it was a toy. I began chewing on it and growling like mad. Mom played with me a little bit, and then, she got tired, and so after relieving me one more time, we came back up here again.
Now, Mom and I are both tired and so I think we'll shove off to bed now. The phone guys are supposed to come and hook up the land line tomorrow afternoon, and so Mom wants to be up early for that. I'll write more soon, night all,
Torpedo
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