The Occasional Ruminations of a Church Dog

Izzie at St. Saviour's

2011-12-06T11:10:00.000-08:00

I just have gotten used to our new house. I can go up and down the stairs and I have comfy places to rest in the living room as well as the bedroom. There is a really nice kitchen and SHE doesn't get mad if I spill my water or my food, because it is easy to clean up. The yard is lots of fun. I can wander around and sniff and I know how to find my way back in. It is also fun to walk down the road. Other dogs walk it too, so there are great smells.

This past weekend we went to a place SHE called Bar Harbor. They have a really nice church and the people there really liked me. I was allowed to stay for both services. I walked into the church on my leash right next to HER and everyone said I looked like I really knew how to process, which I do. It was a big church so there were lots of places to explore, but I did most of my exploring before church started. I stayed very close to HER so I could help her if she needed me. I do have a hard time opening the Prayerbook though. I didn't even snore during the sermon.

The only problem was when we arrived and we went into a dark building with a lady. I didn't want to go and I put my paws down, but SHE dragged me across the wood floor. Drat wood floors, you can't get any traction! But then we went up some carpeted stairs and into a room, which was very nice. SHE took me back down the stairs and we went for a walk and then went inside again. This time the lights were on and it wasn't so scary. That's where we spent the night. The bed was nice and SHE was there and I didn't have to spend any time alone. When SHE went out to eat, I stayed in the car, which is ok because it is our car and I know it.

After church we drove and drove and drove some more. I thought we were going home, but we went to visit my friends Desi and Luci because SHE and her friend were going to a concert so we spent Sunday night at Desi and Luci's house. It is good to be back home, although I had to go to get some acupuncture this morning and SHE has to go see her doctor today too. I don't think SHE is going to be stuck with needles. It is time for a little nap since it has been a very busy day.

Our New House

2011-11-01T08:40:00.000-07:00

SHE is making me move again. SHE promises it is the last time, but I'm not sure I trust her. We have lived in 9 different places since we became companions. SHE told me she bought this house and it is ours. It is very scary though. I don't see very well and I don't know my way around and even though there are not too many stairs, I don't know them. Today SHE put me in an LL Bean boat bag and carried me down the stairs. That was ok. I could snuggle in the bottom and just rest. None of our furniture is there yet and I don't have to sleep there for a few more nights. I do love the yard though. It is very big and I can sniff to my hearts content.

The pictures were the ones that SHE said attracted her to the house. That is not our stuff, but you can see what it looks like.

Acupuncture II

2011-09-15T12:21:00.000-07:00

It wasn't nearly as scary the second time. I think I have more energy and SHE says I sometimes bounce up the steps. When we finished getting the needles I took HER to where the treats are and SHE bought me one. I think I'm going to really like going to see this doctor.

This morning I sat in the car while SHE and some guys wandered around a house. SHE says we will be moving soon, only this time into a house of our own. It won't have very many stairs so it will be better for me. SHE says that after we know if we can have the house SHE will write about it and show everybody some pictures.

Acupuncture

2011-09-08T18:23:00.000-07:00

I went to see a lady doctor today who stuck needles in me. Only a couple of them bothered me and I shook one of them out. Mostly I just lay on the floor and rested. The doctor said I would probably sleep a lot, but I don't think I'm sleeping any more than usual. SHE got to stay with me in the room and I was very nervous at first. I was really shaking, but the doctor gave me something that made me relax and it wasn't so bad. I have to go back next week. My legs are pretty stiff and hurt when she moved them about.

The doctor's office is in the back of my favorite dog treat place. When we were leaving I smelled the best stuff in a bin and practically dove in to see what it was. I pulled out a great big piece of beef jerky that was wrapped up and tried to get the wrapping off when SHE took it away. SHE was very nice though and bought it for me and gave it to me when we got home. It was soooooo good.

You know I think getting needles stuck in you isn't so bad if you can get a treat that is that good afterwards. Do you think SHE will buy me one every week? I know where they are and even though I can't see very well, I can find that stuff by smell. Anywhere. I know I can. You don't think they will sell them all before next week do you? That would not be fair.

SHE is Sad

2011-07-30T13:45:00.000-07:00

I don't like it when SHE is sad. SHE doesn't take me out for long walks and forgets my eye drops. I did get to go over and see Oscar this morning when SHE went to visit my friend in the hospital. Oscar and I understand each other really well now. We rub noses when we meet and I never chase him anymore. He doesn't seem to mind my being in the house at the same time he is.

The people at the churches are all very nice to me. There are some girls who like to pet me and that's ok, but I keep hoping They'll give me a treat even though SHE said not to give me any.

I'm not sure about our long drives though. Most of the time I sleep, but I do get restless.

I'm A Church Dog Again

2011-07-17T12:42:00.000-07:00

After only one night at home, SHE put me in the car and we drove and drove. Turned out we were back in a place I know and a house I know. Even though it was pretty hot, I slept really well at the side of HER bed. SHE put on a fan that blew nice air my way. The very nice person who took care of me taught HER to put chopped fresh tomatoes in my kibble along with cooked veggies and a bit of cooked hamburger. That makes a wonderful dinner and I eat it all. For some reason they've stopped giving me very many treats during the day, so I have to eat my dinner all up.

Both SHE and I were soooo tired on Friday night that we both slept until 9 in the morning. Most of the day was pretty boring, but I did get to visit my friend Pat and spend some time at her house. Oscar the cat was outside so I didn't have to share the attention.

I slept near HER feet during church and when SHE gave the sermon I must admit I snored. That seems to make people smile. It's just that I feel good when I hear HER voice. I'm glad they don't mind my being there. I really hate to be all alone in some room. After SHE talked with some people we got back into the car and drove and drove and drove again.

Now we're back home and I just finished a nap. Long drives are tiring. She has promised that we'll go next door and sit on the restaurant's deck and SHE will have some fish for dinner while I sit and watch sea gulls. I've been told I cannot have any more hot dogs. Drats!

A Dog's Life

2011-06-08T22:57:00.000-07:00

This was in the e-mail my newest BFF and all-round wonderful lady who is taking care of me sent to HER while SHE is off somewhere. They say SHE is helping out a friend who is sick and needs an operation, but I really can't complain. I have it really good here.

Re Her Royal Highness Isabelle.....is reigning pre-eminently. Her appetite and ALL bodily functions are great. I've been working on the black tarry "stuff" around her eyes and have made good advancement in it's removal (she doesn't exactly like the procedure.....but as the saying goes "O too bad.") She is happy with me afterwards when she gets her treat for good behavior.

She is sleeping in my bedroom with me at night alongside the bed.....happy as the proverbial clam.

Izzie accompanied me to Healing Service this morning (I was chalicing) so she was content to remain in the shade in the car (nice breeze from the water).....afterwards I took her for a short stroll and then back into Benedictine. Came straight home afterwards.

A bit later I went back in to town to the market and left her here for the first time by herself as the temp. had risen and there is no shade in Hannaford's parking lot. When I returned home she was curled up on the couch....promptly jumped off and came right over to me with tail wagging briskly. Now she's giving me the eye and letting me know that I should end this and go downstairs and fix her dinner...so will do as I am being asked. Don't worry about her ....she's being taken good care of and enjoys being loose in the yard when I'm out there with her.

A Very Long Trip

2011-05-23T12:10:00.000-07:00

We went north to Houlton, ME. It's the north end of I-95, just before the Canadian border. SHE celebrated at Good Shepherd and I stayed in the car. Of course we did spend the night in the rectory. I didn't know my way around and bumped into the bedroom wall after she turned out the lights. I think I thought we were at home, and I don't see too well anymore. So SHE picked me up and put me on the bed. That was better.

I did get to go to coffee hour and had a taste of an egg salad sandwich and a bit of cheese. After coffee hour we drove and drove and drove. (US Route 1 goes across the top of Maine and then down the coast) Finally SHE stopped for dinner. I got some chicken pieces and a wonderful drink of ice water. SHE also let me walk around a bit. I was tired so I slept on the back seat for a while. We got home just before dark.

Along the way we saw a young moose eating grass along the edge of the road and a turkey. Lots of people were taking advantage of the sunny day to mow their lawns.

Today I was very tired and we didn't get up until after 8 in the morning. It was a bit rainy, but I enjoyed our morning walk.

A New Do

2011-04-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

I couldn't see through the hair over my eyes so SHE took me in for a haircut this morning. We had to go out into the snow and I was mad because SHE wouldn't let me sit on her lap in the car. SHE said it was too dangerous. The lady who does my hair had to drive a long way too. I think I look pretty good and SHE says I smell nice. I'll get her to take a picture of me.

Update

2011-03-22T14:17:00.000-07:00

The vet did all kinds of tests on me and didn't find anything wrong, so now I'm on an anti-anxiety pill. I take it at night before we go to bed. I don't like sleeping in the bed with HER any more. I'm more comfortable on the floor under the bed. I still like my morning tummy rubs though and I climb up next to HER so she can do it.

I didn't want to go to church on Sunday, so I stayed in and slept. SHE told me that the ladies at the church missed me. I don't know if my hard time seeing and hearing is making me anxious. I do know I don't like HER leaving without my knowing about it. Some nights I sleep on the living room couch so I can know if SHE leaves. If I'm really sleeping, though, I don't really know.

This bitch is getting old and it is a b..

2011-02-28T12:30:00.000-08:00

I seem to be able to hear less and less. If I'm sound asleep I don't know SHE's left the room. I can't even seem to figure out which room SHE's in unless I see her. I think that is what is making me so anxious. That and the fact that I had to in the kennel for three weeks, then SHE came back and it was gone for a few weeks and then I had to go back to the kennel for another week. I do not know why she calls it the doggie spa. Yes, I do like being around the other dogs, and the nice lady who owns the place is very good to me, but I miss my HER. I slept really close especially after the first trip. Then the day she took me back to the kennel I peed on the floor, something I never do. I guess I was nervous when I saw my little bag being packed.

After she came back I've been having a really hard time. I spend most of the night under the little bed instead of in the big bed with her. I also need to go outside at two am. SHE is not happy about that, because it has been really cold and snowy. I don't take too long though. Last night I came up on her bed and had an accident before SHE could get up. (Izzie's also peed on the carpet earlier in the day). I went outside with HER but really didn't need to do anything. SHE then spent a lot of time taking everything off the bed and starting the washing machine. We then slept on the couch.

Today I have to wear doggie diapers in the house. Thank goodness SHE took them off before we went outside after lunch. Boy the weather was not nice: a mixture of rain and snow. I only stayed out just long enough to pee. SHE did not embarrass me; SHE took the diaper off before we went outside. Now SHE says I have to go see the doctor tomorrow, And I have to wear the diapers. I think getting old is really a bitch.

He's Gone

2010-12-29T14:51:00.000-08:00

SHE and I have our bed back. The kid has gone back to California and life is back to normal for me. It's not that I minded sharing the little bed with HER, but SHE takes up too much room.

It was pretty muddy out there this afternoon. We walked over to the post office and then back through the parking lot. I got really muddy paws and then some salt on them. SHE had to wipe them off so we could get home.

SHE spent all afternoon on the computer and is very mad because her work all disappeared. She wonders why it wasn't automatically saved like it usually is. I don't think she's going to re-write it all again.

SHE is also packing a suitcase. I have to go the doggie spa again tomorrow evening. Not really a bad thing. Does anybody know where Jerusalem is? We have a friend who lives near Jerusalem, Vermont, but I always get to go when we visit, so that can't be right.

My New Winter Coat

2010-12-10T08:06:00.000-08:00

You have no idea how many people stop to pat me when I go for a walk with HER. My new coat is really snazzy. It is made of fleece and the bottom side is green. Somebody named Karen, here in Maine, made it. Her company is called Peace By Piece Designs. The store where SHE got it for me is fun. I get to go in and the people are really nice and the smells in there are wonderful.

SHE has finally figured out how to get me to eat my kibble. The people at the store gave her a free sample of some food that she sprinkles on the kibble (Stella and Chewy's super beef dinner). It is SOO good I eat up everything right away. Of course SHE doesn't give me enough, only a half a piece in the morning and the other half at night. SHE says it's too expensive, but I LUV it.

We've been having a quiet time. SHE is away at rehearsals and sings every day and is reading lots of books, so I sleep a lot. SHE says she's reading so much because she's going to Jerusalem and wants to have a good background. I will have to go visit my friends at the Kennel, but that's ok.

My visit with Pat, Oscar and Sally

2010-10-25T08:28:00.000-07:00

SHE dropped me off in Millinocket last Wednesday. The first thing that happened is that she and Pat disappeared for a while. Turns out they went out to dinner. Not only didn't they take me, but they didn't bring me anything back. Oscar the cat was here. He's ok, except I didn't like it when he went into the bathroom while she was using it and I got left outside. I told him what for when they came out. I think Oscar understood. He knows that when I am there I am the boss. Also I didn't like it when he tried to get HER to pat him. I'm the only one who's supposed to get my tummy rubbed. Oscar can sit on Pat's lap if he wants.

Pat took good care of me. Sally came over to see me before SHE left for convention and I was so glad to see her. Sally cooks me an egg when I come to visit. Pat walked me down to Sally's house and I stayed there while Pat and her son went out to lunch. I got my egg. Yummy.

I heard HER tell both Pat and Sally that I was on a diet and that they were not to give me treats. What a bummer. Nobody told the ladies at church on Sunday, though, so I got some nice dog biscuits from the people who sit across the aisle from Sally. They remembered how much I like that. Someone brought up the fact that I used to hide dog biscuits around the church just in case somebody forgot to bring some. Sally laughed at the time the cloth over the altar was moving. It was just me retrieving a biscuit at the Tuesday morning service.

We were both tired Sunday night when we got home and I didn't even feel like eating anything. Maybe the diet is working.

I'm Getting Better

2010-10-19T08:44:00.000-07:00

I have been trying and trying to get my human to post something about me for ages. So, here's what has been going on in my life. First, I have been having a really bad time with arthritis. I now have to get a shot in my back every two weeks. That is better than at the start of all this when I got a needle in me twice a week. I still don't like it at all. The next thing is that my eyes are much better. I have new medicine that helps me produce tears and clean off my eyes. I am getting a bit deaf though and don't like it when SHE leaves me alone. I don't hear HER when SHE returns.

Two weeks ago I had to go back to my vet for my annual check-up. I was told to loose 5 pounds. I'm on reduced kibble and almost no snacks. Barking at HER after I finish my kibble isn't working. I was also told to eat fish oil, too. That's not so bad because she puts the capsule into pill pockets, which I love. I need to go back to see the vet in a couple of weeks to see if the diet is working. SHE told me last night after I ran all the way home on our walk, that I was sooooo good. I even got a little treat.

It's a Dog's Life

Note from the scribe (better known as SHE): It was wonderful to see Izzie running again. I don't think she's done that since before her back problems. I think we can attribute that to the fish oil. I finally got around to getting some this week and after only two doses, we had the remarkable running. I decided to take some myself, so our morning routine is a capsule of fish oil for each of us, other vitamins for me and a piece of chicken jerkey with glucosamine, chondroitin for Izzie. I then put a third of a cup of kibble in her dish which she usually won't touch until evening when I add another third of a cup. Then it's time for our morning walk followed by my cup of coffee while giving Izzie a tummy rub.

Let Sleeping Dogs Lie

2010-07-27T06:50:00.000-07:00

Isabelle Sleeping on Pillow

She snapped this picture of me this morning. We had a very busy weekend and I need my beauty rest. First we drove to Millinocket to spend the night with Pat because SHE had to do "supply" for Nancy at Brownville Junction and Dover-Foxcroft. Pat is getting forgetful, although she still likes to take me for walks. She forgot to buy me some treats, so I had to eat some of Oscar's. Oscar is Pat's cat. We're friends now. We greet each other by rubbing noses. I don't chase him any more. It's way too much work and he is much younger and can jump up high.

SHE decided we needed to spend another night at Pat's house, and they all went out to dinner, but I didn't get to go. I sulked under the coffee table. I have to guard the house, so I didn't sleep well. Also it was hot until yesterday. I did get some bacon for breakfast though, two pieces. We stopped at some place in Bangor on our way home where SHE met with some people who are doing something called a search. Then we drove home. She is trying to get me to eat kibble again. It's ok for a snack, but give me people food any day. PLEASE.

Today it's nice and sunny and not too hot. I really don't like hot. Sometime SHE has to put a wet towel on my head and back when I pant a lot. I'm not panting right now.

Alone Again (well not really)

2010-07-22T13:46:00.000-07:00

SHE left me at the kennel again. Now I do have a good time there, but SHE is not to know that. The lady who runs the place said I get along fine with all the dogs, but not all of them get along with each other. There was one dog named Patty something or other, who would ONLY walk with me. She needs to get a life.

Do you know what SHE brought back for me? It's this sign from a place she calls York (no, not York, Maine). SHE laughed, but I am greatly offended. I know how to behave myself.

SHE told me that dogs are allowed on ferries, so I don't know why I couldn't go too. Something about long plane rides and needing special kinds of permissions to go to that country for us dogs.

I really am glad to have HER home, but SHE is not allowed out of my sight. It was so nice to sleep in our bed and be really lazy. Those other dogs at the kennel don't like to sleep as much as I do.

The Move

2010-06-28T06:18:00.000-07:00

OK, I do like our deck. It is nice to sit out in the cool breezes. I also like to nibble on the thyme. I do not like not being able to go into the coffee shop downstairs. One day I escaped and ran in. SHE didn't shut the door well, so I butted it open and dashed down the stairs. But she scooped me up before I could get very far inside. She was in front of the door to the coffee place, about to get another load of stuff from the car. The man who runs the place is very nice, but he said doggies can't go into places that serve food.

This move is stressful for a little dog. SHE has been trying to help me get used to the place, but moving back and forth between the house and apartment is confusing. We are now sleeping at the apartment and waiting for movers to come to move the big furniture. We sleep on a couch that turns into a bed. I like the nice air that comes into the windows, it's pretty quiet until morning and even then I have no problem sleeping until after seven. Then SHE insists we get up so SHE can have coffee.

I still don't like being left alone, but last night SHE went out to dinner and a movie with friends and it wasn't AWFUL (well maybe a little bit). We walked along the water when SHE came back and that was nice.

Back to the Doggie Spa

2010-06-03T18:29:00.000-07:00

SHE took me to the doggie spa to spend the day. SHE needed a new driver's license and then went to LL Bean and had lunch with Mr. Wade. It was a nice day even though it rained. I made a new friend, Woody. He is a pug and he had back surgery just like me, only his back legs had gotten paralyzed and he isn't doing as well. He has to wear a diaper. Anyway I enjoyed taking walks with him. The nice lady who owns the spa told HER that I was very nice to Woody. I am nice to dogs (and to people too), especially those who need a buddy when they're sick.

A Few Thoughts

2010-05-30T14:36:00.000-07:00

Do you know what SHE told me today? SHE said we're moving again. I have lived in seven houses with HER. Now home is where my mommie is, but this isn't fair. I'm going to have to get used to a new place to walk and pee. There will be lots more people around there and I never get to go off leash when I have to do my last trip outside for the night. I do like to lie on the nice cool grass when it's warm. It makes my tummy feel good.

Also SHE's making me walk two times a day now. SHE says I'm strong enough. I refuse to go very far on the night walk though. Just enough to do my duty. In the morning I like a nice long walk and I think that's quite enough for the day. SHE says I still need to loose a little weight. SHE's cut back a lot on treats and is making me eat kibble. I wait until just before bedtime just in case she cooks something for me.

My eye is still having problems, but the medicine to make tears seems to be working. I don't like having an eye bath every morning, but it does help clean out the gunk. I'm getting better at letting her put the medicine in. I prefer drops to the salve, but I have to have some salve to make the tears.

Tomorrow we're going to a parade. I like parades. SHE says it's Memorial Day. There are lots of flags at the cemetery and we see them on our morning walk. At parades we usually sit on a curb and watch people for a while and then we walk home. They're not going to throw any candy, which I think is awful. Most of the time I can get ahold of a Tootsie Roll when she isn't paying attention. So we'll see if the parade is any fun if there's no candy.

A Long Drive to the Northwoods

2010-05-26T14:23:00.000-07:00

SHE took me to Millinocket to visit my friend Pat. Pat is a bit forgetful, but she loves me a lot and I like going for walks with her. I also got to spend an afternoon with Sally who cooked me an egg and let me lie on her nice cool grass.

SHE complained that black flies bit her, but they didn't bother me at all. SHE and Pat were very sad because a good friend of theirs died. The woman was a minister like SHE is, but I guess Congregational is a different kind of church. The woman minister just loved Millinocket and planned to retire there with her husband. I guess God had a different idea. She was only in her early 60s. We didn't know she had diabetes and had had polio as a girl, so I guess her body was not too strong.

SHE says Lyn's heart was a big as the country around Millinocket. It was Lyn who knew who needed what in town, and she knew more about how to help abused women than just about anybody. She also knew who to go to for money to help people. SHE also says the town has no idea yet how much she will be missed. I do remember that that Lyn always had a nice scritch for me, but she was a cat lady. She was most proud of her Maine Coon Cat. It was bigger than me.

A Note from Her: I still haven't processed Lyn's death. Whenever I went to Millinocket to see Pat, Lyn and Milton would be invited over for drinks and hors d'oeuvres and sometimes they joined us for dinner afterwards. The conversations were far-ranging stimulating. She was truly my sister-in-Christ and I miss her. She had completed the work for a D. Min. and would have received her degree the week after she died. The seminary awarded it to her posthumously and had her hood encased in a display box. Her classmates made sure there was an empty chair for Lyn at the ceremony. Part of the reason her memorial service was so long was the degree and hood were awarded a second time for her congregation to see. I know it won't be the same for me to go up there. Pat will miss her pastor very much too,

Prayer:
Gracious and Loving God, whose wisdom is beyond our understanding: Deal graciously with Milton, and Pat and Lyn's congregation in their grief. Surround them with your love, that they may not be overwhelmed by their loss, but have confidence in your goodness and strength to meet the days to come; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (adapted from the BCP, 494)

Isabelle and Rabbits

2010-05-12T12:21:00.000-07:00

Two Rabbits (Kobi 19th Century) Wikimedia Commons.

My mommie has gotten addicted to LOST. Every Tuesday evening she disappears for a couple of hours and I have to stay home alone. SHE says it's because the place SHE goes to watch it has a bunny rabbit named Hester. Now I really like bunny rabbits. They are so much fun to chase. I really liked Wyoming because there were lots of rabbits who lived next door under an old barn and one of them used to come and wait for me at the edge of the driveway so when we came home from church I could chase him.

They're going to have a big party for the last show and I suppose I'll have to stay home alone then too. It's just not fair. SHE is worried Hester will have a heart attack if he sees me. (Hester is a boy rabbit).

I've decided that I really don't need to drink so much water after all. I'm back to my old habits of just one bowl a day.

A Quick Update

2010-05-09T19:43:00.000-07:00

You know I think I like the doggie spa. I always get to meet nice doggies there. My friend Rex wasn't there this time, but I met a new dog who spent a lot of years in a puppy farm and was real scared, but we got along pretty well. She is much littler than I am, but I think after the nice lady at the spa takes care of her for a while and she sees how nice the dogs are that stay there she will be ok. I made friends with another dog, and I'm sure he thought I was a pretty sexy thing, so I had to put him straight. I only want to be friends. SHE was only gone two nights and although I was REAL glad to go home, I had fun.

The doctor said I don't have Cushing's disease, but I have a nasty eye infection and need medicine three times a day. Sometimes I make HER chase me, cause I really don't want to have her put it in, but I do feel better. Now SHE has to measure how much water I drink. Not a big deal since SHE's trained in that sort of thing.

SHE said we have to look for a new place to live. The woman who owns the house is going to sell it. I like this place. Do you know we've lived in 7 places since we've become companions? I think it's time we settle down.

Two Churches in Two Days

2010-04-19T07:40:00.000-07:00

I got to go to two churches in two days. I like going to churches because it usually means food. I know how to keep quiet during prayers because voices change and they all speak together. I did get a few goodies and in the second church there were lots of people sitting around tables eating, but only my SHE gave me anything. I guess they just don't know me very well. I tried looking cute, but nada. So mostly I just slept under the table and snored during the meetings. I was SO glad when we finally left and went home. We were both so tired after all that driving on Sunday that we didn't do very much. SHE took a long nap and so did I.

Home at Last

2010-04-14T14:23:00.000-07:00

Finally I'm home again. The kennel/spa was nice, but home is better. I did like my new friend Rex, who is a Jack Russell Terrier. We enjoyed walking together. There were some other nice dogs too. When I saw my mommie I ran over and jumped on her and when she bent over I kissed her and whined and carried on so she would know that I really did miss her. I sat in her lap all the way home and did some more crying. It's so hard for me to be away from her. She says she missed me too. I am not letting her out of my sight for a while. I went with her to the grocery store and then for a little walk. I'm getting very good at walks again. I'm not nearly as stiff when we finish as I was for a while.

Letter to Izzie

2010-04-12T19:54:00.000-07:00

Dear Izzie,

Today I went to visit your friend Daisy and her human Liz. Daisy is a year older than you and she has arthritis and is going blind, but she remembered me and was sniffing all over me, I think to see if your smell was there. She is just as nice as she's always been and I'm sure she was confused that you were not with me. I gave her a hug for you and she sends you a woof. Bella was also there and is getting older too. Remember she was our landlady's dog in Sausalito. Bella was spending a few days with Liz and Daisy since her human was away. She also remembered us and sends a woof too.

Yesterday I went over to the church in Sausalito and people asked about you. It was nice to see how well they've done since our interim there. It's been very rainy the last few days, but we have had sunny spaces in between. David and I had lunch at a nice Italian restaurant there after church and then a rainy trip across the bay. I've finally adjusted to the time and now I leave tomorrow. Oh, well.

I heard from the lady who runs the kennel this morning that your other eye is infected too. We need to go to your vet again as soon as I get home. In the meantime, let her put the medicine in both eyes. I was happy to know though that you've made a friend at the doggie spa. It's always good to have someone to pal around with. I am looking forward to meeting your new buddy when I pick you up on Wednesday.

Be good,
Mommie

Letter to Izzie

2010-04-10T20:30:00.001-07:00

Saturday evening

Dear Izzie,

After such glorious weather since my arrival, it's turned cloudy and cool. It's supposed to rain tomorrow. I did some work on my thesis project, got a little exercise in (hope you did too—remember you're supposed to lose a few pounds) and spent a lot of time talking with David. Started Anne Lamott's Imperfect Birds. Not much more news today. Be a good girl. Miss you, sweetie.

Love

Mommie

Doggie Spa

2010-04-10T07:08:00.000-07:00

I think she sent me to the spa this week to lose a little weight. I have my own room with a bed and chair (and I brought my favorite pillow). I have to go out and take walks with the other dogs twice a day and I'm supposed to play in the yard. SHE only left kibble for me to eat and some cheese to put on it. I'm trying to be sweet so the nice spa lady will let me sit on her lap. Oh, and I don't have a thyroid problem. The vet said after she comes home they need to check for Cushing's Disease, but we can't do anything until I settle back down at home. That's all the news from me.

News from HER

Dear Izzie,

I went to see my advisor at CDSP to suggest an addition to my thesis. I don't think the data I've gathered is enough for a good paper and Rob Voyle gave me the idea of asking people he's trained in Appreciative Inquiry and are doing Transition Ministry (Interim) work to use my protocol and give me feedback. I will meet with another professor on Monday to see if she will serve on the committee since the third member is no longer at CDSP.

I spent the first night at my friend David's house and after going over to CDSP I drove up to Sebastapol to see Rod and Mary. Rod has just retired. We talked and reminisced about our classmates in seminary and shared wonderful meals together. They're great hosts.

I'm now back at David's. When I returned I convinced him to get a Wii Fit so he can work on his balance. I've found that to be really helpful for me. We're going over to All Saint's for the 8 am service and Sausalito for the late service tomorrow and then lunch with Liz.

I'll be back late Tuesday and pick you up Wednesday morning. Be a good girl.

Mommie

It's Stopped Raining

2010-03-31T14:22:00.000-07:00

It was still raining this morning when we went out for our walk, so I had to wear my coat. SHE says I don't have to wear it for a while. It's supposed to keep getting warmer every day this week and no more rain. Yea!

I'm not producing enough tears in my right eye (and I have a little infection there too), so SHE has to put two medicines in it every day now. We'll see if I let HER. I'm pretty strong you know and have a neat trick. I put my head into HER lap so SHE can't get at my face.

We haven't heard from the doctor yet about my results, so SHE will have to tell you about them later after we hear. I need a nap, then dinner.

UPDATE: It doesn't seem to be a problem with my kidneys so the doctor lady is sending my blood out to be tested for a thyroid problem. (From Izzie's mom. As I was about to publish the post there at the bottom was an ad for low thyroid. Weird!)

The Doggie Spa

2010-03-30T16:22:00.000-07:00

I spent a very rainy day at what SHE calls a doggie spa. It's not too far from where we live. The lady who owns it met us at a parking lot because the causeway to her place is flooded and the lady didn't want HER to get our car stuck. There were only two other dogs there today and we all got to go out on walks. SHE made me wear my red raincoat cause I don't like going out in the rain, but I did like to go out with the other dogs. SHE makes me wear the coat so I don't get my tummy so dirty.

The nice lady sat on the floor to play with us dogs and I liked to sit with her, but I didn't want the other dogs to horn in on my time. I just growled at them. Nothing particularly nasty, but just enough to let them know who's the boss.

Tomorrow SHE wants me to see our vet again. SHE's worried that I'm drinking too much water. I don't know what's the problem, but we'll see.

UPDATE (31 March 2010): It's not diabetes. They took a bunch of blood from me to see if my kidneys are working ok. If that turns out negative then they'll send some of my blood out to see how my thyroid is working. It's a bitch getting old. Oh, I'm a bitch.

SHE Has Spring Fever, I Don't

2010-03-13T08:05:00.000-08:00

I don't feel like going out for walks very much these days. My left back leg is still a bit weak. After we come back from our walk, I have a hard time going up even the two steps into the house. SHE hopes that with such good weather, my leg will get stronger. I do like going out with her though. Trips to the dump and to the grocery store are great, because I only have to walk to the car. SHE's threatening to go to Dodge Point and do a real walk sometime soon, but I have to get stronger first. Right now just going to the end of the road is enough.

Is it SAD?

2010-02-20T05:27:00.000-08:00

SHE and I have spent the last two weeks watching LOST. HER excuse is that needed to catch up so SHE can go over to a friend's house on Tuesdays and watch the last season. I think the real reason is that SHE's suffering from what people call SAD. It happens a bit every year, but this year we don't have a church and SHE's not busy enough. Of course I'm not either. I like going over to church and bossing people around and getting lots of treats. I miss sharing people's lunches and seeing who comes and goes. I even miss listening to HER sermons.

At one of the meetings for the Haiti dinner this big dog who belongs to the choir director was there and I chased him downstairs. That was fun. He's a nice gentle dog, so it's easy to chase him away. I know he was just trying to be friendly, but I wanted him to know who was boss.

I also went with her to a church that was a long drive away. We talked to some people and SHE and the priest there went out to dinner and left me alone with some woman. The woman tried to give me a snack that SHE left for me, but I wouldn't take it. I didn't know her. Then they came back and more people came and there was lots of talking, mostly by HER. I did my usual sleeping under the table and then we left and drove home. Only SHE took the wrong road and it took a while. I think SHE said something about consulting, whatever that is.

SHE is not spending much time on the computer. I think that bright light SHE's been using all week might help cheer her up. I noticed SHE's starting to exercise again. I still don't do long walks, but I'm getting better. My back legs are still a little weak, but they sure are better than before I had that awful surgery. My hair has grown back in very well, but the hair over the scar is brown. SHE says it looks interesting.

I think that in a week or so SHE will be back to her usual self and will start reading other people's blogs again.

All They Did Was Talk About Food

2010-02-05T06:34:00.000-08:00

I went with her to a meeting at the church last night. They were talking about this big dinner they're having for Haiti relief next week. People from other churches were there too. They talked a lot about food. I heard something about a salad with avocados (I like avocados) pork (yum) and rice and beans (ok) and a coconut custard. The problem was there wasn't any food there. They talked on and on about who was cooking what and how many people they need to serve and how many tickets they've sold.

I wandered about and greeted everybody. Inspected all the open rooms. Greeted people again and then did my famous trick of lying on the floor and snoring. For some reason PEOPLE find that funny. I think it helps to speed meetings along.

Just Try to Put Those Mittens on Me Again

2010-01-30T09:19:00.000-08:00

I had HER swipe this picture of me from Bailey's Buddy. Don't you think it's a great likeness. See what a tough dog I am.

It has been very cold here the last few days. It's hard to stay outside very long. Most of the snow has gone and the roads are clear, but unless I wear mittens (she calls them my shoes), my paws just don't like going on walks and I fight her every time she tries. Guess SHE'll have to be satisfied with short trips to the yard and rides in the car.

It's also nice to sleep on the couch, look out the front window and beg for treats. Maybe I won't have to beg if I use this "gat." Oh, and SHE says I can't smoke indoors.

UPDATE (from mommie): Izzie has one paw that I think suffered frostbite in the time before we became companions. She really can't stand severe cold on that paw. One time in Wyoming I had to carry her to the house when she sat in the middle of the road and tucked her paws under her. She tries to kick off any type of dog footwear I put on her. Right now it's pretty dry so it's not so hard on her.

A Snowy Day

2010-01-18T10:46:00.000-08:00

It's snowing a lot today. I don't do walking in deep (more than 6 inches) snow. I do like to snuggle with my new pillow. I'm waiting for HER to fix me lunch. After that I plan on snoozing some more.

Snoozing

2010-01-17T12:51:00.000-08:00

I just don't have the energy to post today. I need my sleep. SHE keeps trying to get me to go outside and pee, but I'm not ready. I promised I won't go on the floor. I got scolded at Desi and Luci's house because I kept going on the floor, even after I went outside. I was afraid SHE was going to leave me there and Luci kept pestering me to play. When my mommie and her friend went out to go to the gym and then have lunch I stayed in the car, which was better than staying alone in the house. At least I know SHE's coming back to the car.

I haven't had any food since yesterday. Yesterday was tough. What I liked was the toll taker when we came into Maine gave me a little treat. Most of the rest of the trip was boooring. Just a few walks at rest areas and a hot dog at one stop.

I did like coming to our house. First I sniffed around outside. There's snow everywhere, but it's not too deep. Then I inspected the house. Everything seems to be here. We slept in our bed and I really didn't want to get up, but SHE carried me downstairs.

UPDATE: 5 pm I finally went outside. First I drank a whole bunch of water and deigned to eat my kibble with cheese. I do feel better, but it's time for another nap.

Living the Good Life

2010-01-12T15:39:00.000-08:00

It was really fun visiting with Grandmere Mimi and Grandpere. They know how to treat a dog very well. They have a dog too, her name is Diana, but we were only allowed to meet through the fence and the windows. They were afraid I might get hurt, but I really know how to hold my own. Of course they were all worried about my surgery, but I feel really good right now. When we got to Thibadoux it was late afternoon, my mommy and Grandmere spent all the time talking and drinking wine. I curled up on the ottoman to listen to them and to sleep. It was just my size. I also liked going outside in the front yard. There are lots of good smells, especially along the fence to the backyard. Finally we went to bed and I climbed the stairs just fine. We both slept really well.

The next day I got bacon for breakfast and not only that I got the bacon fat poured on my kibble. Boy did that taste really good. Grandpere is a good cook. SHE and Grandmere went to church and I stayed home with Grandpere, who was really nice to me.

They shut me in the kitchen when they left to go out and eat, but I butted the door to the family room open with my head and was sitting on the couch when they came back. That way Diana and I could talk through the french doors. She was in the yard and we barked at each other every now and then. I really got nice treats to eat at Grandmere's, some ham and some buttered toast. If you hadn't noticed it food is VERY important to me (good food that is). SHE and I took an afternoon nap while Grandmere went to a concert and then the talking started again, but not before they took pictures of me. I asked mommie to steal one from Grandmere's blog and she decided it should be the one of me on the nice red ottoman. I heard I've been promoted from princess to queen. I think that's proper. SHE's a good lady-in-waiting, at least most of the time.

We left early the next morning and did another one of those boring days except this time it turned dark and I decided to sleep on the floor next to my nice little pillow. We got to mommie's friend's house and when I went inside I met Squanto the cat. He didn't like me at all and ran and hid. Of course I had to chase him. He went under the bed and wouldn't come out until today. Today I went outside a bit and showed my mommie all the good places to sniff. I've also slept a lot. Mommie's friend laughs at me. We had pizza for dinner. I love pizza. Of course I had to eat some kibble since they only gave me little bits.

I've been told we're leaving tomorrow morning for another long drive, although SHE says it won't be too bad. We're going to stop after only five hours (SHE promised). I think SHE wants to go home and you know, I think I do too. I love road trips, but home is so nice.

Sorry Everybody This Trip is Boring

2010-01-08T05:46:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry there's nothing interesting from my point of view. We get up in the morning. We drive a bit. SHE goes in somewhere to have breakfast. I get a slice of bacon when SHE comes out. We drive some more and get gas and I get to walk around a bit. I listen to her singing at the top of her lungs while we drive some more. We stop for lunch. I get a small hamburger. We drive some more. I get to walk at a rest stop. We find a place to stay. I eat my dinner and we get into bed after a quick trip outside to pee. I go to sleep and SHE usually watches the weather channel, although last night SHE watch some re-runs of Chuck. Her son-in-law works on that program.

SHE says that we'll get at least as far as San Antonio today. By the time we get there we won't have time to do any visiting of sites. Oh, and she's got the treats locked up in a bin so I only get some after a stop and when she remembers to give me some. So that's been the last day or so. Even when we went to see the desert, I had to stay in the car because of all the prickly cactus stuff. BORING!

Me in Pasadena with Buttercup

2010-01-03T17:45:00.000-08:00

Here's a picture of me and Buttercup on the couch. She's not supposed to be up here, but when our mommies went out we shared the couch. Buttercup's daddy took our picture. The next picture is me after Christmas dinner. I was very relaxed. My "sister" says she's going to Photoshop me with a martini in my paw.

Moving Around

2010-01-02T18:37:00.000-08:00

It's very confusing going from one house to another. I think I have all the other dogs figured out though. Buttercup likes my food and I like hers, except our mommies don't let us eat it. To eat out of Buttercup's dish I have to stand up really tall and then go on one leg. The mommies laugh at me. At her son's house I get to eat before Zephyr and Eva because they eat very late. They're jealous of me. I feel sorry for them. The house is very small, but nice. We went for a good walk up in the hills of Sierra Madre. If my mommy and I were in better shape we could climb up to Mt. Wilson from there.

I really like my pillow and it goes with me everywhere. Sometimes my head goes on it and sometimes I use it to lean on. My mommy moves it from the couch to our bed and back. Today I had to stay at home while SHE went out. It was OK because Buttercup had to stay too. I stayed on the couch on my pillow. SHE says we're going home soon and have to drive and drive again. I used to like road trips much better than I do now.

Me and Buttercup: Training a Young Dog

2009-12-29T08:27:00.000-08:00

Buttercup is only a year old. I'm teaching her how to get up on the furniture to be comfy and that it's ok to beg for food at the table. I don't know why everybody is mad at me. We're getting to be friends and I think we should share things. When my mommy gives me a treat, she should give one to Buttercup too. Sometimes Buttercup's mommy doesn't agree. I think that's not nice. This morning we both got "Happy Hips" after we went outside to pee. I always get one first thing in the morning. Buttercup really doesn't need them like I do, but they're really tasty since they're jerky made from chicken.

Out Walking Again

2009-12-27T11:36:00.000-08:00

This morning I went out for part of the walk with Buttercup. I led the way. I can walk pretty fast. It felt really good to be out and about. My mommy made us come back early. SHE says I shouldn't overdo it and she promises we'll go a bit farther every day. When we got back I took a nice rest on the couch. This afternoon we're going over to see her son and grandson and spend the night. That means I get to walk with Zephyr and Eva tomorrow.

Day After Christmas

2009-12-26T08:17:00.000-08:00

I didn't really appreciate the Christmas dinner. I don't like lobster and that's what they had. They were very lively things. Fortunately none of them got on the floor, although one of them used its tail to splash my mommy. I settled for a little kibble, but what kind of Christmas dinner is that for a dog? Not even any cheese as an appetizer.

After dinner all the people sat around and watched a basketball game. My mommy's daughter has a father-in-law who is so very, very nice. I sat on his lap for a while and felt so peaceful and comfy. Even after they left, I still felt really good. I was so relaxed that I got my picture taken. When we get a copy I'll post it.

My mommy's daughter gave me a wonderful little pillow that I use on the couch and bed. It's really hers but I took it over and now it's mine. She says she'll buy a new one for herself. People use them on airplanes. It's small like me and is filled with little grains of something that I can push around to suit me.

This morning I'm napping on the couch. Buttercup and her mommy and daddy go for a four mile walk every morning. I prefer the couch. SHE says I've got to start taking long walks again, but we'll see. I do still hurt a little in my back. I'm good about letting her put me on the couch, though. I did manage the stairs at her son's house. They have carpet, so they're not as hard for me to do as the ones in Damariscotta.

Another Bit of Mischief

2009-12-21T18:58:00.000-08:00

It started out like most of our days on the road, but right after lunch we stopped. After a while we went off on some side roads and it went on forever. SHE stopped to get gas and go to the bathroom and I am strong enough to jump out of my car seat again. So I went in the back and emptied out all the bags I could find. I ate my fill of dog treats and drank all the water in my dish and tore up some old MacDonald's bags and found my favorite toy, the hedgehog. Then I got on the back seat and took a nap.

Sunshine on the Road

2009-12-20T16:18:00.000-08:00

There was lots of sun today. We left the last place in Missouri just before it got light. This morning when SHE stopped for breakfast I had to stay in my car seat. I did get some bacon though. I didn't feel like drinking much water while we were driving, but when we got to the motel, I drank and drank and drank. We drove through Oklahoma into the Texas Panhandle and are staying in a place called Amarillo.

A Little Bit of Mischief

2009-12-19T15:25:00.000-08:00

I had a wonderful time in the car today. SHE went to a Denny's for breakfast and let me run around the back of the car. SHE forgot there was a bag with goodies in it and I got into it. I'm really good at using my teeth to get things out of bags. I opened a box of kleenex, but there wasn't anything good to eat there so I also found a box that SHE yelled at me about. It was something called a brioche mix and I got the package opened and took the mix out of the box, but I couldn't open the mix. It smells pretty good. Then I found a package of peppermint sticks and tried to open it, but couldn't. When SHE came out of the restaurant she brought me a piece of bacon. SHE gave it to me anyway, even though SHE also yelled. That was really good. I then got a little walk and we got gas for the car and I had to go in my seat. Then we just drove and drove again. Later SHE bought me a plain hamburger at Burger King. Now I don't have to eat much kibble for dinner.

Lexington, Kentucky

2009-12-18T15:51:00.000-08:00

SHE's tired. We didn't get as far as SHE would have liked, but it was starting to get dark and it was raining very hard, so we're now in a motel. They let doggies stay here and even though I slept a lot today, I could sleep some more.

Last night we stayed with Uncle Donald in Baltimore. He and Janet were very nice. I was a little upset when he carried me into the house and my mommy was still getting things out of the car, so I accidentally peed on a rug. I do like Uncle Donald. He visited us in Maine a couple of years ago. He took me for a nice walk after I got there. Then he gave me some great pot roast with carrots and potatoes. Uncle Donald and Janet have three cats. They didn't like me being there, but I didn't care. We left early because SHE was afraid of a snow storm. I guess there will be some snow in the morning. We hope there won't be too much and that the roads are ok.

Road Trip Again

2009-12-16T12:05:00.000-08:00

We are packing up all my stuff so I can go on a road trip. SHE tells me we're going to California to see her son and daughter. I know them and I've visited before, so that's just fine. She's trying to explain how many nights we need to spend in motels, and it sounds like a lot. I don't mind though because SHE's there.

I have a nice seat in the car so I can see out the window. Unfortunately it also has a hook-thing to attach to my collar so I can't jump out. Not that I really think I can do that right now. I'm making sure SHE doesn't leave me behind. I follow her everywhere and am keeping a good eye on the suitcases. I have my own special bag that has food and treats in it. It also has my name on it.

I'm still recovering from a very busy day yesterday. I'm tired and I'm content just resting. It's also very cold and windy outside so I don't want to spend a lot of time there. Tomorrow I have to get up really early so we can spend the night with her brother in Baltimore. She says after that we're on our own.

A New Look

2009-12-15T08:25:00.000-08:00

Last night we slept upstairs in the comfy bed. SHE went up first and then called me. I didn't know at first if she wanted me to go up the stairs. The last time I tried I got yelled at. But it seemed like that is what SHE wanted so I went up. I was pretty slow. I had to zig zag up, getting all of my body on one step before I did the next. My pillow was on the bed and I thought it was wonderful. I stayed next to it all night. This morning SHE carried me down the stairs. I really wasn't up to it. I was scared. Then SHE took me to the beauty parlor (that's what SHE calls the place dogs go to get a bath and haircut). The lady there was very nice to me, but now my hair is really short and I have to wear a jacket outside.

This afternoon we're going to see my mommy's bishop. They're going to talk about her CREDO stuff. SHE said I could come too, woo hoo! I've met Bishop Steve before at the Interim's and Consultant's Meetings and he's very nice. I saw him at the party after Ben's ordination too. He even asked about me when I was sick.

2009-12-09T09:34:00.000-08:00

It's very snowy out. SHE had to shovel the snow off the back steps (all two of them) before I would go outside and pee. I'm not stupid. I like to know where I'm stepping. The steps are not very high and are real easy for me to use. SHE started a fire in our fireplace (she's good at that as you can tell be the picture) and we're both sitting around watching the fire. I'm doing a lot of sleeping.

Legs Are Doing Fine

2009-12-08T14:06:00.000-08:00

Yesterday the doctor took the staples out of my back. She says I'm not supposed to jump or climb for a long time yet (about 2 1/2 more weeks). It's very boring. My back legs are working pretty well. I don't loose my step as much as I did for a while.

SHE carried me upstairs and downstairs today so SHE could take a bath. I like to sit next to the tub and when SHE comes out I lick her legs. If SHE leaves me behind I bark and bark and bark. I'm a companion dog and I like to companion. Can't do that unless you're with someone, right?

No Pictures Please

2009-12-05T07:39:00.000-08:00

SHE has been snipping off my hair with scissors. SHE says it's because I have matts and I can't go to the groomer. Now, not only do I have a bald patch on my back, I have a VERY bad haircut. SHE hasn't tried to cut around my face so she laughs at me and says I'm a fuzzy face. That's not nice to laugh at a dog who can't help it. She says after I get staples out on Monday she will have me groomed.

The other thing is SHE isn't feeding me enough. I seem to be hungry ALL the time. It seems like the medicine makes me want to eat a lot. I also am drinking a lot of water so I need to go outside every four hours or so. The nice thing is SHE has to stay around the house to take care of me.

I'm walking a lot better. SHE went upstairs yesterday and didn't block the stairs very well so I got up about four stairs before SHE found out. After getting yelled at and trying to go down, SHE picked me up and carried me down. I really can do it myself. (No Izzie can not. Her back legs still are not strong enough)

I'm Home, I'm Home

2009-11-30T06:07:00.000-08:00

Thank you everybody for all the prayers. I feel so good being home. I know, my back really hurts, though. I don't like my mommy picking me up, but sometimes I have to let her. We slept a lot yesterday afternoon. SHE put the futon down so we can sleep in the study. I can walk on to the bed just fine.

Last night I had to get up a lot to go outside and pee. I never do this. I like sleeping too much. I also needed to drink lots of water. SHE says it's my medicine. I try to scratch my ears, but my back legs don't work the way I want. When SHE sees me trying, I get my ears scritched. It's good, but SHE doesn't know exactly where to do it.

This morning I keep eyeing the couch and then walking away. My choice is either jump (and I can't) or have her pick me up, which I hate. I'm an "I can do it myself mommy" dog.

This morning we spent lots of time in bed while she massaged my legs and back. Then she moved my legs around. The massage is great, but this leg moving stuff hurts a little. She says we have to do it until I'm better and can walk really well. She's promised me lots of good walks in a few weeks, after I get the staples out and the vet says it's ok.

I got to have a piece of bacon for breakfast. Boy did that taste good. I'm sure I didn't eat a thing at the doggie hospital. Speaking of the doggie hospital. I really had the staff doing what I wanted. I didn't have to stay with the other animals. They took me on lots of little walks and gave me massages and the doctor wrote "Thank you for bringing Isabelle to the Maine Veterinary Referral Center's Neurology Service, she is such a pretty little girl." I don't feel so pretty with a bare patch on my back and needing a haircut. She's talking about getting me shaved, so it all grows in together.

(Note from mommy) I only plan on having it cut really short. There are lots of matts only made worse by her surgery and confinement. She is two weeks beyond her normal grooming date. I've had to cancel two appointments.

Pat and Isabelle

2009-11-28T05:37:00.000-08:00

Baxter Peak and the Knife Edge Trail on Maine's Mount Katahdin. from Wikimedia Commons (Greg Neault)

My mommy and I drove to Millinocket which is north of here a long way near that mountain. We stayed with one of my favorite people, Pat. Unfortunately Oscar the cat lives there now. He and I have come to an agreement. I won't chase him unless he asks. We greet each other briefly by touching noses and then try to stay out of each other's way. I got my own plate of Thanksgiving dinner (turkey, potatoes, squash, peas and stuffing with a bit of gravy) I ate some of everything, but left most of the peas. I only like fresh peas, thank you.

We stayed in the apartment so I wouldn't have to do stairs. That's how I met Pat. She rented us the apartment behind her kitchen when we moved to Millinocket. Our house wasn't ready because the wife of the former priest was still living there. The first weekend SHE had to go to Bangor because one of the people in her church hit a moose and was very sick. I stayed with Pat in her part of the house and we became fast friends. It took my mommy a lot longer to become friends. Pat came with us on our last trip across the country. We had so much fun. Pat really liked seeing Teddy Roosevelt National Park and Glacier and Crater Lake and especially the Grand Canyon. I liked having two beds to choose from at night and getting only people food.

Yesterday morning we left Millinocket very early. It was still dark. I recognized the doggie hospital when we got there and refused to come out of the car. Alas, SHE is bigger than I am and finally managed to corner me and pick me up. I showed her. I peed on the floor of the hospital. Then they took me inside. I haven't seen my mommy since. They put me to sleep and now I am very groggy. They say I have to stay here three nights. I want my mommy!!

UPDATE: (10 am) I'm awake and able to walk around. My doctor didn't think I could. They don't know what a strong dog I really am. Now if they would only take this funny clear tube out of my leg. They tell me it's so I won't hurt and they'll take it out tonight. I hate being in a cage, but I need to sleep so that's all for now.

Do you want the good news or the bad news first?

2009-11-24T15:53:00.000-08:00

I have to have my back operated on Friday. That's the bad news. The good news is that I don't have cancer. I hope that means I still get to eat yummy dinners. Tonight it was more chicken, rice, broccoli plus some sweet potato. Then I had a great nap on the floor.

I'm tired of being picked up. I feel good enough to get on and off the sofa even if I have to scramble to get my back legs up. I'm scared it's really going to hurt when they operate on my back. I want to drive to California with my mommy so we may have to leave a bit later than she thought, because I'll have to get better. Road trips are a lot of fun, but not if I hurt. I don't want to travel in a cage. I can't stand cages. I have a nice dog seat that lets me look out the window.

Please pray my surgery goes well.

Singing to Isabelle

2009-11-23T13:06:00.000-08:00

SHE likes to sing to me. One of the songs is "How much is that doggie in the window?" So we found the muppet version. It made her laugh so I think I've done my job today. I'm still pretty groggy, but she brought a roasted chicken home for our dinner and I've already had a snack. Yum. We want to share it (the video, not the chicken), so other people can laugh too.

My Visit to the Hospital

2009-11-21T05:46:00.000-08:00

SHE took me to a new hospital. SHE said it was a special place that would make me all better. Well I didn't like it much at all, although the people were very nice. First the vet tech looked me over, then I saw the doctor. SHE called her a neurologist, whatever that means. They said I was "bright, alert and responsive." Of course I was. I'm always that way. That's me. They also said I had "a mildly hunched back and slight weakness in the left hind limb" and that I was "uncomfortable on thoracolumbar spinal palpation. Meaning my back hurts and my left leg doesn't work quite right. I know that. I then had to go with the tech inside some doors. The gave me some stuff to put me to sleep and then I had what they called a myelogram/CT scan to see what was happening with my back. The next thing I know was I had to spend the night there.

SHE said they took a little bit of something behind my tongue to see how bad it was (a biopsy). They decided not to operate on my back. We have to wait a few days to find out how bad it is. The neurologist said she thought it was squamous cell carcinoma. Too big a word for a dog like me. I heard her tell my mommy to feed me soft food. YEA. That means SHE'll cook for me all the time.

I'm not supposed to go on walks for a while and I can't jump on furniture, so SHE can't leave me alone unless SHE locks me up in the study, where there's nothing to jump on. AND I don't have to go to the groomers today.

2009-11-19T04:46:00.000-08:00

I hurt again and I can't jump up on things. SHE seems very worried, but I'm fine. SHE gives me a pill in a yummy treat and that helps, but there's something wrong with my back leg. I can't feel it and I have to be very careful. SHE won't let me go upstairs anymore, but I like sleeping on the futon. I can just walk onto the bed. It's also a good place to rest when SHE goes out. I hate going to the doggie doctor. I shake and shake and breathe so hard I get the floor all wet. The doctor is very nice though. She doesn't hurt me at all and is very gentle. The doctor says I'm a very stoic dog. SHE says "gentle-gentle" all the time to me, especially when she picks me up. I'm not supposed to wiggle when she says this, but sometimes it hurts. SHE says we're going to see another doctor today. NO. I don't want to. Help!

Acadia's Sand Beach

2009-11-08T16:48:00.000-08:00

I got to run on a beach for the first time in ages. I think maybe since we left California. Beaches have so many wonderful smells. I do like smelly seaweed, but SHE wouldn't let me roll in it. I also think the sand is fun to walk on. It's easy on my legs. SHE and her friend Jane (I like Jane, she gave me a McDonald's hamburger today—plain, nothing on it) took me on a nice long drive to a place called Acadia National Park. I got to walk a bit and that was nice. It was sunny and not really cold at all. The stone stairs down to the beach were pretty easy for me to manage. I think because they were so nice and deep. I didn't worry at all about going down or up. I would like to have a beach like that near where we live.

I like long drives when SHE lets me sleep on her lap. Sometime I look out the driver's window and sometimes I sleep on my chair and sometimes I go into the back to see if maybe there's some food. The McD's lady gave me a dog cookie as a treat. That's because I lean very far out of the car window so they know I'm here and it often leads to a cookie. It's a good trick. Bank tellers sometimes have dog treats too. Advice to my dog friends. Always stick your head out the driver's window to let the drive-through people know you're there.

Now we're home and I have to eat kibble tonight. You'd think SHE'd know by now that I hate kibble. Maybe I'll nap first. It was hard work being with humans all day. I never really got to nap all that long.

Photo is from http://www.acadia.ws/sand-beach.htm

Hooray for Hiking!

2009-10-16T06:29:00.000-07:00

I love hiking. The first time SHE took me hiking was in Wyoming where we met. We went on a path near a very cold mountain stream on a very hot day. Now I don't like water much and NEVER go swimming, but I needed to cool off, so when we came to a safe place that had some rocks to keep me from being swept away, I went in and put my tummy in the water. Boy did that feel good. Of course I got all sandy, but I really doubt I needed that bath to get rid of it. I'm sure it would have just fallen out. SHE was worried it would fall out on her bed, so she dumped me in the tub. Then SHE grouched because of all the sand she had to scoop out of the tub.

Anyway yesterday's walk was great. It was cold, so I didn't get too hot. SHE put an orange sleeve over my collar, but nobody could see it. I don't see why anyone would mistake me for a deer anyway. Most people seem to think I'm a tiny sheep. I don't believe in going off trail. I might get lost. It's hard enough keeping track of where SHE is and sniffing all the good things a dog can find on a trail. This used to be a road to an old farm. There are stone walls and a broken down shed in some places. Nice people gave the land to Maine so dogs like me can have nice walks.

I Am Not A Pumpkin!

2009-10-12T05:30:00.001-07:00

OK, that really was going too far. SHE dressed me as a pumpkin and then paraded me all over town. Now I must admit I liked all the attention, but really, does that woman have no shame? No self-respecting dog would dress in orange and green and look so fat. I think I look much better in my basic black dress. It's much classier. In addition, that dumb hat kept falling over my eyes. SHE finally took my ears out of the holes and pushed the hat back so I could see. A nice lady at the restaurant gave me some water and I got the eat the rest of the kid's hamburger, so it wasn't a total loss. The picture is of me sitting on the deck of the restaurant waiting for food, or some action. Humans can be pretty boring at times. All there was to do was watch the gulls.

After we ate we walked over to where the pumpkin boat races were being held. The kid got to sit on his dad's shoulders to see what was happening, but I got to sniff all the great smells on the ground. They had this monster pumpkin in a truck and there were lots of people milling around and dropping bits of food on the ground. That part was fun. Then we all walked home and took naps. I didn't have to wear my costume for my nap.

My Comfy Bed

2009-10-08T06:50:00.000-07:00

Here I am in my comfy bed. It is sitting next to my human's desk, where she spends lots of time. For a while we got to snuggle on the couch where I could flop on the computer to make her stop working and pay attention to me. I don't think that's going to work here, but I'll figure out something. SHE complains that I won't go for long walks any more, but I do love sleeping on soft beds.

Doggie Lasagna

2009-09-30T15:03:00.000-07:00

SHE made me some doggie lasagna for dinner tonight. Boy it was good. SHE hasn't made it in forever and it's one of my favorites. It has turkey and cottage cheese and some tomato sauce and some cheddar cheese and pasta. Yummy! After I ate I went outside for a little while and sat on the grass. I noticed there was some water coming down from the sky and looked up. It was fun trying to catch the water on my tongue. Now it's time for a nap.

Reverse Sneezing

2009-09-24T05:49:00.000-07:00

Well I've been home for two nights now. It's so good to get to snuggle in a big comfy bed. I gave her lots and lots of kisses when I was picked up. The day SHE picked me up I had an attack of reverse sneezing. I feel as though I'm about to collapse and I start shaking all over. I just can't breath. SHE has been putting her hand over my nose to make me breathe through my mouth and that does work, but it takes a while for me to stop shaking. The doctors think I have an allergy and this usually happens in the Fall, so it may be true, but I don't like it one bit. SHE thinks it also has something to do with stress and I do get stressed when I'm not with her. Anyway we were on our way to see the vet when I had another attack. We were in the car and she had to stop to help me. The vet said the best way to stop it is to hold me head down and smack me in the ribs. Is that any way to treat a dog? I get scared enough. I still sneeze, but no reverse sneezing since yesterday morning. I'm supposed to take something called Benadryl to see if that helps. I do love being home again.

She Threw Me in the Hoosegow

2009-09-12T13:39:00.000-07:00

I'm in lockup and I don't know why. SHE and I had a good snuggle this morning before we got out of bed. I've really been a good doggie, so why did SHE do this to me. SHE said something about having to go on a trip, but I've always stayed with friends before. I don't know why we don't know anybody here yet who would like a nice snuggly dog like me for a week or so. I can even get along with cats. SHE brought my comfy bed that I like to use while we watch TV, and my squeeky moose. If SHE thinks that will make it ok, she's mistaken. I'm trying to figure out how to get on the good side of the people here. Maybe they'll let me go home. I'm pretty sure I know the way.

Oh, I got this message out by way of a very nice boxer. I had to give him one of my treats.

Haircut

2009-09-05T11:20:00.000-07:00

My new groomer is very nice. She let my hair dry naturally and she uses scissors instead of clippers. I really like the store where I had it done. The front part has lots of wonderful goodies for dogs (and cats). They even have homemade dog cookies. Most of them were much too big for me. SHE was looking at dog clothes. Fortunately I got her distracted. SHE said she was looking for a Halloween costume for me, but I really don't want a dress with frills and a matching hat. I think my little witches cap is just fine. We've used it the last two years. Maybe she'll forget about the dress and I can just wear the cap. That's bad enough. the problem with Halloween is all the kids who come to the door think I'm the cutest thing ever and I think they're frightening. Not only that they seem to want candy.

I'm pretty brave

2009-08-30T10:04:00.001-07:00

Some of you may know that I fell down the stairs a couple of days ago. First of all the stairs are wood and my paws slip a little on them. It wasn't a problem when I could only go up and down slowly, but I'm feeling so much better. The doctor gave me some medicine that I'm taking every day and I feel like my old self again. Anyway SHE had gotten dressed to go out and I refused to be left behind so I raced down the stairs and slipped and ended up rolling down the last half. I just missed knocking her down with me. I'm a pretty brave dog and just got up. Of course SHE felt so badly that SHE let me go with her. It was just a short trip and I stayed on the floor of the car. SHE made us sleep downstairs that night, but really, I'm ok.

I Won!! Nah, Nah, Nah

2009-08-12T16:06:00.000-07:00

If your read my companion's blog, you'll see that I won. I don't have to eat kibble any more except as a little snack if I feel like it. It's taken me seven years to get her to see the wisdom of this course of action. But I won! Yea!

Let's get this over with

2009-07-21T18:24:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure I like this moving around so much. Yesterday we drove to our new house so she could put some stuff in it. We didn't get there until night so we spent the night. I didn't really like sleeping on an air mattress. SHE kept me awake by tossing and turning, so I snored as loud as I could to let her know I was really awake too and marched up and down the bed trying to find a comfortable spot. Then she got me up at 5:30 in the morning to drive back to the old house. I got some good zee's on the drive. Then because she had so much to do, I had to stay at home all day. Not fair.

2009-07-17T04:26:00.000-07:00

Oh boy! Something is going on. My human is packing up everything in the house as fast as she can go. I'm not letting her out of my sight. The only bit of sanity was when we went over to the church. The ladies were having their Summer Fair and were serving lunch. Everybody said hello to me and I sniffed around to make sure I knew everybody. There was a strange dog there. Kind of looked like the one that bit me two years ago. Didn't like that dog at all. I asked her to leave. I don't know why SHE gets mad when I growl. I got a hot dog. SHE only let me have only one, but I know there were more in the kitchen.

They really spruced up the yard at the church while I was gone and they put in this funny pole with a whirly thing on top. SHE said it was a wind turbine. I made my usual tour of the grass and went over to see if there was anything new in the neighbor's yard.

Happy July 4

2009-07-04T07:35:00.000-07:00

Happy July 4! I'm staying with my friend Pat and am living in the lap of luxury. Don't tell my human I'm having a great time. She thinks I mope the whole time she's gone. I only do that for a little while, just to be sure she's really out of here. I love sitting outside on the grass under the tree. I also like the back yard. The grass is very soft with lots of room to explore. Pat's son did the landscaping.

Feeling Better

2009-06-15T07:22:00.000-07:00

I'm no longer on my meds. I still can't jump up on to the couch, but I refuse to use the steps. I bark at her and she will pick me up most times. SHE's not too bright, I just don't understand why she doesn't understand the difference between "I want to go out, I want a treat, and put me on the couch." I know what I need. Mostly I sleep on my own little bed on the floor.

I Hurt

2009-06-07T03:26:00.000-07:00

I hurt a lot. I can't get on and off the comfy bed so I spend a lot of time on the floor. I've asked my human to bring my little doggie bed home from the office, so I can sleep on it. I don't do stairs either and our bedroom is upstairs so she carries me, which I hate, but it's better than being alone. Last night we walked over to the Thai restaurant and back (it's about a block). It's an easy walk and we went very slowly. I like the little Greenies "pill pockets" our friend the deacon gave us. I take my aspirin that way and now I get another one for my new medicine. SHE says I have to go on a diet, but I'm not very hungry right now anyway. Thank you for praying for me.

Beware of the Dogs

2009-05-27T14:46:00.000-07:00

My human put a poem about nasty dogs in her blog. SHE apologized to me, but she knows I get very nervous around mean dogs. One of them bit me a few years ago and it hurt very bad for a week. If one of them comes around me first I growl and then I hide behind my human. Sometimes I find out they really aren't mean at all. I have had some nice big dogs as friends.

My Church

2009-05-24T13:17:00.000-07:00

I'm a bit tired out right now. We went to a parade and then we walked over to the church for a party and then walked back home. I thought maybe people would like to see the inside of my church. It was taken when they had just finished putting in new light fixtures and someone wanted a picture of them. They hadn't noticed that I was sitting in the middle of the aisle.

My Loot

2009-05-15T05:07:00.000-07:00

Here's me with my "loot" from my party. That nice little tin is now in the office at church and is filled with goodies for me.

I Can Too Blog

2009-05-14T13:37:00.001-07:00

SHE is trying to teach me to use the computer so I can do my own blogging. The problem is my paws are too large for the keys. It's a nice place to get warm, though and I know how to irritate my human. All I have to do is plop down on it. Then she has to scratch my ears and give me a backrub.

Finally, Me at My Party

2009-05-14T13:20:00.000-07:00

O.K. I finally got my human to download the picture of my party guests and me. They're a nice bunch of ladies who know how to treat a dog well. And I do mean treat. I have a very nice understanding of words and "treat" is among them. When these very nice ladies come to the church I sniff their handbags to see if there might be something good in them. My friend the Cheese Lady couldn't be at my party, but she makes sure I get cheese on the Sundays that she does the coffee hour.

I also like the people at the early service. They have their coffee hour before we go into the church. They make really good stuff. One of the men brought me a whole bag of dog biscuits for my birthday, even though he didn't come to the party. It was such a big bag I decided to share with the dogs whose people come to our food pantry. I also gave them some dog food. I prefer people food, myself. My human says I'm a "foodie." I think that's good, isn't it?

It's My Birthday

2009-05-05T03:56:00.000-07:00

Hi everybody. Today I'm 11. It's also Cinco de Mayo. My human will post pictures of me after my party. We're going to have Mexican food of course and we've invited people from the church to come and share. I love my human's chile con carne and the enchiladas with chicken and cream cheese aren't bad either. I wonder what we'll have for dessert. I hope there's some cheese too. I love cheese. Actually I just love parties, except when there are a lot of children. They think I'm a plush toy. So why did SHE put up a picture of kids celebrating Cinco de Mayo? Humans, go figure.

On a Sunny Afternoon

2009-04-26T13:19:00.000-07:00

This is me relaxing after a hard day of watching humans play dominos. I also got to visit with another human friend. She made me scrambled eggs, but I wasn't very hungry that morning. I was real glad when I found my human waiting for me after such an exhausting day. SHE was very tired too, but I made her laugh by licking her face. I don't know why she makes faces when I do that. It was good to be able to run around my own yard yesterday afternoon. I went into the woods behind the house and then walked the perimeter to be sure we didn't have any intruders. It was so nice and warm that my human and I ate our supper out on the deck. Last night was very noisy. The frogs are making an awful racket when the sun goes down.

One of the Family -Eva

2009-04-19T08:56:00.001-07:00

This is Eva. The first time I met her she was a puppy and she and her human came to Wyoming to visit us. It was my house and she tried to take over, but I wouldn't let her. We were just beginning to get that all sorted out when they left. Now when I go visit, she knows that I'm the boss and she leaves me alone. If she doesn't I just hide behind my human. Eva and Zephyr love to run around the yard. I get tired watching. They did show me how to eat the avocados that fall off the trees. They are yummy. My human's daughter took all these pictures of my family.

Two of the Family-Zephyr and Wisp

2009-04-19T08:48:00.000-07:00

Here are Zephyr and Wisp. They live with the kid and my human's son and his wife. I've never met Wisp, but my human has and SHE says I'd like him except he also likes to sit in her lap, so maybe not. Zephyr is ok. I can boss him around. He's very fast, but easily bullied, even by a small dog like me. They have another dog, Eva, who lives there too. Her picture comes next. They also have two cats, but I won't bother with pictures of them. They hide when I come to visit and besides one of them stole my bed.

One of the Family- Oso (may he rest in peace)

2009-04-19T08:37:00.001-07:00

This is Oso. Remember I told you about him in my last post. He's not here anymore, but this big lion of a dog is probably catching squirrels and raccoons up in doggie heaven. I'm sure he thought I was a squirrel.

One of the Family-Bear

2009-04-18T15:21:00.001-07:00

This is Bear. She lives with my human's daughter and her husband. Oso used to live there too, but he went on the long sleep and Bear is now alone with her humans. She's a lot bigger than I am and the last time I visited, Oso (who was even bigger) was still alive and the two of them ganged up on me. Not much fun thank you. Bear's human takes great pictures. I'm trying to get my human to take more pictures of me. SHE, however, never remembers the camera.

Loons and Walks and Snacks

2009-04-17T14:47:00.000-07:00

It's so nice that spring is here. There's no more snow to pee on and the ducks and loons are returning. SHE pointed out two loons on the open water at the edge of the pond but my hair has grown so long I can't see through it very well. We are now walking to church instead of driving in the car. It's nice to find out where all the other dogs in town are peeing and to sniff out how they're doing and I make sure that I leave my calling card as well.

I get tied up while SHE goes into the Post Office to pick up her mail, but lots of people I know stop to pet me so it's not lonely. Today it was so very windy, though, that the rope on the flag pole was banging and making me nervous. We stopped at the book store and it was open so SHE could order a book. I don't know why SHE didn't let me snoop around more. I love to snoop. You never know when a stray dog biscuit will show up. I got one at the bank. All we need to do is go to the drive-up window.

I like to hide dog biscuits around the house so when I feel like having a snack I know where to find them. I especially like the sofa, but sometimes they fall in between the pillows. If I work at it long enough SHE gets the idea and comes and retrieves them for me. You know SHE's not very bright. SHE doesn't seem to be able to smell where I put them. Humans really need a lot of help.

I'm Famous

2009-04-13T08:55:00.000-07:00

SHE found this photo of me on MadPriest's blog. Good likeness don't you think. Hooray! I'm famous. Hope they don't eat the potato chip. Hey, I like potato chips. Maybe they'll send it to me.

Izzie's New Hero

2009-04-06T18:57:00.000-07:00

From BBC News-Australian canine castaway found.

Sophie Tucker - named after the famous US entertainer - vanished as Jan and Dave Griffith sailed through stormy waters off Queensland last November. But unknown to her grieving owners, the plucky dog survived a long swim across shark-infested waters to an island. There she lived on a diet of baby goats until being found by visiting rangers.The Griffiths were amazed to hear of the discovery and have now been reunited with their pet."She surprised us all," said Jan Griffith. "She was a house dog and look what she's done, she has swum over five nautical miles, she has managed to live off the land all on her own. We wish she could talk, we truly do."

Comment: Now that's a brave and smart dog. I wouldn't mind having her as a friend. I only hope she doesn't think I'm a baby goat. SHE sometimes confuses me with a baby sheep and calls me Lamb Chops.

Going to Meetings

2009-04-03T15:57:00.000-07:00

SHE took me to one of her meetings today. It gets to be pretty boring. I sit under the table and snore. The best time is lunch, although I really didn't like the left-over fried rice. Wandering around the church yard was fun, although I picked up some burrs which SHE didn't remove until we got home. Of course she didn't notice them until we were in the car on our way home. I'm letting her write this while I take a rest on a quilt. I'm all combed out (except for my tail--which we fight about) and feeling good.

Dogs in Church

2009-03-31T07:03:00.000-07:00

SHE showed me the picture of all the dogs in church from USA Today and I approve. SHE laughs a lot when she goes to this Mad Priest's blog, BUT (love that word) sometimes she finds something really good like this. I liked this picture the best. Now that SHE's a priest and all I don't get to sit with her and get hugs. One church we were at a very nice lady let me sit with her. She also brought me treats. Then some of the other ladies brought treats in their handbags. SHE didn't know all this was going on for a long time. I made the mistake one Sunday of crossing the aisle when she was looking. Then the jig was up.

Time to Hit the Trails

2009-03-28T13:51:00.000-07:00

What a fantastic day for being outside. SHE let me run around the church yard while she talked with the ladies running the thrift shop. There are now patches of grass showing up in the snow. I was finally able to walk over to the neighbors and sniff around. Haven't been able to do that since last December. Can't wait to get on the trails again. This is me hiking in Wyoming. There are good trails here too, only SHE hasn't brought her camera along. I like having my picture taken.

I want my own blog

2009-03-23T14:12:00.000-07:00

Just to let you know a little about me. My name is Isabelle (Izzie, for short--and I am). I'm nearly 11 dog-years old. Church is fun. I sleep through the sermons, snoring when they go on too long to let her know it's time to stop. I test out the cheese at coffee hour. Most of it is really good, except I don't like American cheese and I don't like Provolone. I like some cookies, but they don't let me eat chocolate, which I really do like. As you can tell I'm really into food. I don't like walking through puddles and I don't like getting wet, but I love long walks and mud is wonderful. If it's really smelly I think rolling around in it is one of the best things ever. I asked if I could have my own blog since SHE keeps talking about me and I'd rather talk about myself.