Work

What is work? Why do my parents have to do it? How can I stop it? It's all so puzzling.

Before Jenny announces that she is leaving for work she always tells me to be a good girl and reminds me that she'll be back later. This usually means that she will leave and not return for many, many hours, although it can also mean that she is busy with something and doesn't want to be interrupted. Apparently she doesn't need my help when she is "working in the kitchen" or "doing housework".

Daddy gets busy with work too. Sometimes he does "outdoor work" like sweeping the garage, or making the grass shorter with the noisy machine. He also runs the very loud and scary vacuum, but mostly he works on his computer.

I just don't understand what "work" is. Does the word apply to everything that doesn't involve me? Maybe if I involved myself in their work it would cease to function? Perhaps "work" is like a spell that can be broken?

Why must they focus on something other than me? What could possibly be more important than belly rubs and cuddles? How can I convince them to stop working? Maybe I could do their work for them? I'm teachable. Or maybe if I act extra sad and pull out the puppy dog eyes on them before they go, they will find someone else to do it? Aside from blocking the doorway or applying guilt I don't think I will be able to stop them. Grrr....Sometimes it's hard being a dog.

With love & cuddles,
Lottie



Lesson # 22 Work is like a shape-shifter. It takes on many forms, it's hard to define, and even harder to stop.

Books

What are books? Why do my parents happily stare at them for hours? What do they do? What is their purpose?

They don't make any noise, or move by themselves. They wouldn't keep anyone warm like a blanket, they don't smell like anything special (just dust or ink), and I've never seen my parents eat them, so what is the appeal? Why do they have so many?

Don't get me wrong, I'm definitely not complaining. Actually I like it when they sit down and open one, because they always invite me to sit with them, and I know they won't be getting up for a long time. It's just that I don't understand what books are for. My parents stare at the movie box too, but movies make interesting sounds and show things moving (not real moving just pretend moving), that I understand.

Yesterday, Jenny sat down beside me on the couch and picked up a new book. I told her I was happy to let her join me by wagging my tail and licking her hand. Then I looked at her quizzically. I think she picked up on this because she told me that it was "book time" and she proceeded to open the book and stare quietly. I watched her expression soften and felt her muscles relax while she sank deeper into the couch. She looked happy. I don't know what the book was telling her but she was listening. Do books speak a silent language that only people can understand? I wonder if it feels anything like going for a walk and watching the sun go down? I hope she tells me more about books in the future. I'd love to unlock their mystery.

With love & cuddles,
Lottie



Lesson# 21 Books are mysterious things that make people happy.

The three-legged cat

Today I visited the three-legged cat! I first met him a year ago but don't see him very often, however Jenny and I spotted him this morning while we were out walking.

He came towards us, and Jenny, unsure of how I would react, shortened my leash and reminded me to be nice to him. Whenever we spot a cat she tells me the same thing, "be nice to the Kitty Cat." I think she knows I'd like to chase it like I do the bunnies. She patted the cat while I checked him over. He has grey fur that is fluffy, but matted in spots. The condition of his fur and the scratches on his nose make him look tough, but his actions were surprisingly genteel. He layed down on the grass content to have human attention. Jenny continued to pet him while I gave him a good sniffing which he didn't like, so he got up and left. We continued on as well.

I enjoyed the impromptu visit and was left with a feeling of admiration for the cat. He travels amazingly well considering his condition. He walks freely and quickly with periodic stops for rest. How did he lose his back leg? Where is it now? Does he miss it? Would I fare as well with three legs? Do other animals make false assumptions about him? Is he a mouser? How is it that he is more confident with three legs than I am with four? Does he have a home? Does he have a name? When will I see him again? Will he become my friend?

As usual I have more questions than answers, but unfortunately I'll have to wait and see...... Uhhhhg! Waiting is hard.

With love & cuddles,

Lottie

Lesson # 20 Appearances can be deceiving.

Buster

I have a new neighbour. He is a little white terrier that recently moved down the street with his family. Jenny and I met him a few days ago. We had just left the house for a sunny afternoon walk when this dog came running across the lawn towards us. I barked as soon as I saw him and didn't stop until his owner called him back and Jenny dragged me away. His name is "Buster".

I could tell by the tone of her voice that Jenny was angry with me for barking, but I don't understand why it bothers her so much. It's not like she was trying to sleep or something, and I had no intention of attacking the dog. I barked to let him know that I wanted him to keep moving along. I wasn't in the mood to meet him and I didn't appreciate the disruption.

The truth is I was also a little put off that Buster wasn't wearing a leash like me. Why should he be so lucky? Don't get me wrong I love taking Jenny for walks but sometimes I would like to go exploring by myself. So why can't I? Does she think I will get lost? I certainly know the neighbourhood better than Buster. I don't mean to sound resentful, but I just don't understand.

I wish I didn't mind wearing a harness, things would certainly be easier for me. I've tried to let my parents know that I don't want to wear it by turning my back to them when they attempt to put it on me, but so far it hasn't worked. They either put it on me anyway, or suggest that maybe I don't want to go for a walk and turn away. When they do this I have to quickly put my head through it and try to help as I'd hate to miss out on a walk! How do I resolve this?

Maybe I could destroy it? I don't know how I would do this though since it looks pretty sturdy. Perhaps I could hide it? Of course I'd have to find a spot where they'd never find it. Maybe if I keep thinking a flash of brilliance will come to me? Until then...I'll wish you all well. Happy walking!

With love & cuddles,

Lottie

Lesson #19 A leashed walk is better than no walk, but not as good as an unleashed walk.