Too Hot to Tango

This is Milo, Mia and me!

So, we walked today with Abby the Black Lab. She is a nice girl and I am happy to be getting to know her better. we ran into Ziggy right off the bat too. Off we went to the beach and there was Milo the Pitt mix and Mia and Molly. For the record Mia is one of the greatest Poodles I know. She is fun and spunky! Everyone pranced around in the river. At one point there was some loud barking and some dogs started getting annoyed with each other. Not the kind of play annoyed that is fun. this is when the peeps are handy to have around. They broke it up and nobody got hurt. I got nervous though and ran over and laid down at my person's feet. I know it sort of ruins my image but I jumped up after ward and proudly displayed my tail and gave everyone a smile. We left and walked the rest of the way with Mia, Molly and Abby. We saw Pearl and Mel on the way. Pearl was very interested in Duke's comment yesterday about how beautiful she is. Of course who wouldn't want to hear that!

It was a nice walk with friendly talk coming from all of the peeps. Mia and Abby ran through the fields after the hill like crazy. I was too exhausted to run around. This leads me to my next problem. Both Jessie and Mimi go to a groomer and get short summer hair cuts. I see a lot of dogs that I truly respect getting short summer doos at the park. My peeps have been talking about sending me to the groomer but I don't know. I get so nervous thinking about someone cutting my fur. They better not go near my tail. That would be just too much for me. I think if I got a hair cut I might be cooler and not get so tired.Plus, I am a big boy and not tiny like some of these guys. It is a hard question for me. To cut or not to cut? That is the question. I better sleep on it.

Merlin

Duke and Sheila

So, we went out early again today. My peeps are packing up and doing their day trip thing. I wonder where they go. I know my walking person said that she will see her cousin that had out collars made. I wish I could go. I think they can not take all of us so we all stay home. I wonder what I can do to convince them to take me. Jessie has the blue eyes, Mimi is fuzzy and has a super good howl. I have the tail and the smile, enthusiasm and complete package of beauty. OK, the choice is easy. Why can't they see that?

Anyway, early has proved to be good for me. We saw Fast Eddie and Chloe right before we reached the river. Chloe and Mimi look a lot alike. The peeps all talked about Mimmer's upcoming surgery. They said the Vet that is doing her surgery was just out running with his dogs on the path. Now, that is a good sign.

We met a wonderful Dixie dog named Pixie. She was very fast and fun. I am not sure what mix of breeds she was. I will tell you this. She had a little cow bell attached to her collar. I understand why a person would do this because Pixie was not coming back etc. This is a lesson I have been trying to teach you youngins' for awhile. If you just go to them when they call most times, once in awhile you get to take off and they think it is a fluke. That way you have fun and you don't get a cow bell! Pay attention to me, I know.

So, down at the river I saw my pal Duke. He was with another Lab named Sheila. They are BOTH in the experiment I told about last week that Duke is doing. Now, I have 2 dog friends that are scientist.

All I know is that Duke (yellow) and Sheila (Black) got me running and playing like crazy. They may be scientists but they sure can play! We walked with them for awhile. Another Lab came by and we were all playing. I really like Duke's person. Do you know why? Because she is smart that is why. She looked around at tall the Labrapalooza going on and said "Merlin, you are still the prettiest." She is such a great person. Duke is a lucky boy.

So up in the top field I got a moment of solitude that was captured in the above picture. On the way out we saw Pierre and Benji with a Pomeranian named Lucy that we have not seen in awhile. Her person asked my person about Jessie. She said that Jessie is one of the sweetest dogs she has ever met. OK she is pretty cool too. It is always nice to run into pups and peeps that remember my old sister. She really is the Seer of the dog park to some. Well, we have a dog sitter visiting us later. I guess that is the least my peeps could do if we are going to be left alone all day!

Rex

So, we left very early this morning and I was afraid we would see no one. I was so wrong to worry. That person of mine does know what she is doing once in awhile. First we met a spunky little boy named Fezzik. He was half Shitzu and half Lhapso Apso. He let me know right away that big dogs did not intimidate him one little bit. We walked as far as the dog beach with him and his person. Along came Dexter and Fred. They were walking with someone I did not know. He is a Rhodesian Ridgeback, without the ridge named Rex. He is one year old and I immediately knew we were going to be friends. I went over to where his person was throwing the ball for him. We both made a couple attempts to chase after the ball but really we were waiting to see if anyone would run and if anyone would chase. That question was quickly answered and we were running down by the water and up through the fields over and over again. He is one year old and sleeker than I am so he got a pretty good jump on me. This kept up for some time. You can see in the pictures what fun we were having. As it turns out his family lives one town over so they do not come every day like we do. That is a bummer!

We were leaving and he started chasing me again. Our paws sort of got tangled up and we went rolling into a big ball of dog together. I got a little pinched on the bottom and yelped really loud. He jumped off of me right a way which proves he is a dog of good caliber.

We saw old buddy on the way out. He has a summer hair doo and is looking young and spunky. Toward the end of the walk Rex jumped on me and I was just so tired. I gave him a couple of hip checks but he kept coming at me. His person put him on lead so that I could have a little break. When did I become the old dog? I bet if I saw him on a cooler day I cold run circles around that boy. No matter what it is aways nice to make a new friend. I hope I get to see him again soon. I have not seen Bosco, Biscuit or any of my rock em sock em pals in a few day. Hey, get your peep to get in touch with my peeps and we can hang out. Don't be afraid of the fireworks over the next 2 weekends. They are just silly people trying to make loud noises to celebrate our freedom to run free and poop in the woods! Merlin

Weather

Mimi is having a big operation on 7/7/08. Good luck sis!

This picture is of Nanook. Yes, he is absolutely beautiful. He even has a tail that could be a contender to mine. not at all superior to mine mind you but a contender. He also has blue eyes. My sister Jessie gets a lot of attention for that too. I am considering contacts!
We got out early enough today to enjoy the outdoors and avoid the heat. We saw Bones, Josie and Jake right away. They were with a dog walker that had a bunch of dogs but I only remember the name Archie. It was fun to meet new friends while walking to the river. We saw those wonderful French Bull dogs, Pierre and Benji. They were really feisty today, jumping around. I really like them. At the river we met a dog named Milo. He was not my buddy Milo but another cool dog named Milo. I tried to convince this guy to play the chase game but he was all about chasing the ball. We left the beach and saw Bandit and a few others I didn't really know. I was not big on the running and playing thing until it happened. From behind me I saw that Aussie Cattle dog Jack. We tore off down the path at the speed of light. Ahead of us Abby (Mastiff) had just run into a beauty of a dog named Rhiannon( I think?). Trust me when I say there was running, jumping, mud puddle splashing and some noises that came from that place deep down in the soul of dogs having fun. It was shortly after this delightful time that I saw Nanook and Willie. I really do love those two even though I get jealous, a little. Up from behind us came Sculley, Sonic and Holly. They had their people puppy with them so my person had to oooohhhhhh and ahhh a lot. He is very cute and now he rides on their persons back instead of front. We walked out with those guys. Sculley had both ACL's repaired and he is doing great. I made sure to report that to Mimi as soon as I got home. It looks like it might rain and make all that noise again . It got me thinking about what goes on outside. Who gets to say when it rains, snows, sunshine? Is there a canine greater than myself? Yeah, right! With my smile and my tail it is hard to believe that there could be something greater. I fell asleep in the car on the way home today so you know I am chillin' at home this afternoon.
Merlin

no park, no fun, not feeling the love

Well, my person thought it was going to start thundering and she did not take me to the park. She did sit with me and give me big snuggles and told me why I wasn't going. While I appreciate all that I am a little sad about not going. I guess I should be grateful that I get to go almost every day! Mimi is waiting for the Vet to call back today to set up the date for her surgery. It is going to be soon I guess. I do feel bad about thinking she was faking. Oh well, I do love my big sister. Tomorrow I am going for a long walk and I will take pictures and I will love life! Today, I am feeling a little sorry for myself but our girl is here and she uses me for a pillow. I love that! I am going to go make myself available to her. See you all tomorrow on the trails.
Merlin

Big Day For Mimi

Hello Friends, Merlin has agreed to let me post on his blog again. I went to see the Vet today. I have a partially torn ACL. It will require surgery to fix it. My peeps are trying to figure out the best time for me to have it done. I feel good about finally getting this fixed. The bad news is until I have the surgery I am not allowed to do much of anything. After the surgery there will be weeks of rehab that involves mostly leash walks! I hate that. In about 10 weeks after the surgery I will be able to play but a full 6 months for complete recovery. I am glad my peeps are going to help me feel better. I met some very cool dogs at the Vet. I just want to mention how much I enjoyed meeting Bella, the Pomeranian with the broken foot. Also, the 2 Boston Terriers, Sonny and Cher. Mostly I enjoyed meeting Princess who had been rescued from a shelter just 2 weeks ago. She is a beautiful girl who has gotten a second chance. Hooray for peeps that rescued dogs from shelters, like me! Mimi

Well, the park was really nice today. My person and I walked a long way without seeing anyone that we really hang with. After the beach we saw Fred and Dexter. I could not focus on that because there was something very strange going on behind us. Now, I want to point out that this is the DOG park, AKA DOG walk section of town. I have come to accept some joggers and I have talked at length about how much I like the Disc Golf folks. Today there were 2 people without a dog. They were not jogging and had no disc anywhere. I got nervous and barked at them. What are they doing here without any of the reasons peeps come here? My person put me on lead and calmed me down. She let me go and I gave those folks a sniff and let them pet my head. I still find them to be a little bit suspect. So, we ran into my little Pierre and Benji pals. Their new sister had a bad upset stomach which was messy at best I hear!
Pretty little Bella came by. She did it! She reached the big birthday. Bella is 1 year old! They said she would not make it. Go Bella.Up the hill and right into Ziggy we ran. We are getting along fine these days. We chased a ball together and Ziggy dug a big hole while our peeps talked. A very cool Cocker Spaniel named Kirby came by and said hey.
We moved on and saw Big Scout and Clyde toward the end of the walk. Sweet Earnest and Birdy rounded out a really pleasant day.
Merlin

Little Buddy

So, today was really weird but worked out good. We left really early for the park. As I was headed into the park I heard a little noise behind us. I turned around and there was my little buddy, Lil' Scout. I have not seen her in a long time. When I was a puppy I used to chase her for long periods of time. Now, I think we enjoy each others company in a more mature, sophisticated way. I really do like hanging out with her. We did not spend much time at the beach because both my person and Lil' Scout's person seemed to have to keep moving because they have things to do. Can you imagine thinking there is something more important than the dog park? People, can't live with 'em, can't get to the park, open dog food, well lots of stuff, without them.
The walk was really good today. Sort of private because we were so early. We saw Pearl up in the big fields. I definitely could have hung with her for awhile today. We were headed in the other direction plus suddenly, Mel appeared. We all said hey, had a butt sniff and than 'Lil Scout and I went one way and Pearl and Mel went the other.
I totally enjoyed my walk today but at the end I was really just sort of stunned. As we were leaving we saw a little guy named Gus. I liked him immediately. Suddenly, there was Bosco. I yelled "Hey, What up, dawg?" He glanced at me but his person had the "chucker" and the tennis ball. I tried to run but my person gave me the "load up" command. Against my better judgement I hoped into the car. As if that was not enough my person went and talked to Bosco's person while I was left in the car. Insulting I tell you. Anyway, I might forgive my person if she was discussing how to walk with Bosco another day. I am still tired but I am thrilled that our girl is home! HOORAY!
I almost forgot to mention the storms again. There was a ton yesterday and our girl took care of all of us! During the night there were more and I just kept my head low and hoped it would stop soon. I think it worked.
Merlin

Have you seen this one?????

How many dogs does it take to change a light bulb?
1. Golden Retriever: The sun is shining, the day is young, we've got our whole lives ahead of us, and you're inside worrying about a stupid burned out bulb?
2. Border Collie: Just one. And then I'll replace any wiring that's not up to code.
3. Dachshund: You know I can't reach that stupid lamp!
4. Rottweiler: Make me.
5. Boxer: Who cares? I can still play with my squeaky toys in the dark.
6. Lab: Oh, me, me!!!!! Pleeeeeeeeeze let me change the light bulb! Can I? Can I? Huh? Huh? Huh? Can I? Pleeeeeeeeeze, please, please, please!
7. German Shepherd: I'll change it as soon as I've led these people from the dark, check to make sure I haven't missed any, and make just one more perimeter patrol to see that no one has tried to take advantage of the situation.
8. Jack Russell Terrier: I'll just pop it in while I'm bouncing off the walls and furniture.
9. Old English Sheep Dog: Light bulb? I'm sorry, but I don't see a light bulb!
10. Cocker Spaniel: Why change it? I can still pee on the carpet in the dark.
11. Chihuahua : Yo quiero Taco Bulb. Or "We don't need no stinking light bulb."
12. Greyhound: It isn't moving. Who cares?
13. Australian Shepherd: First, I'll put all the light bulbs in a little circle...
14. Poodle: I'll just blow in the Border Collie's ear and he'll do it. By the time he finishes rewiring the house, my nails will be dry.

THUNDER

Wow! Between last night and today there has been a lot of flashing light and really load noises outside. Good thing both of my peeps were home yesterday. Jessie gets just as afraid as I do so we both get a person to hide with. When our girl is home she even gets us blankets to hide under and ice cubes to chew on. I finally figured out why all my peeps keep going to our girl's school lately. She is not going to be going back to the school that Chevy works at after today. I do not know if the new place has a dog. I could be a school dog. I want that job but if it means I can not go to the dog park forget it. I am never going to give that up.

So, we walked in the park today with Rascal and his person. Rascal is a really old boy but you would never, ever know it. I wish Jessie could still come to the park. People still ask about her all the time. It looked like we still might get a storm while we were walking but I tried to follow everyone else lead and not panic. I jumped right in the river which is much higher after all the rain we have had. A really pretty Australian Cattle Dog named Jack showed up. He ran and ran and I chased him a ton. His person wanted to keep moving but I really wished he stayed longer. Up the big hill we went and in the top field we saw Deli. It was so weird for Deli to be alone. He is always with Clementine, Flannel and Luna. It must be summer time when everyone's schedule changes. I hope that does not mean bad things for me. We saw my buddy Daisy toward the end of the top field. It seems like we are on totally different schedules now. We saw Willie, Nanook and Bandit toward the parking lot. Tango and her person gave us a wave as we all left for the day. It was a plain and simple enjoyable walk. Sometimes it is nice to just be even without a peak or a valley~ Merlin

back to myself again

This here is Emma. She is a very fancy Poodle with a remarkable hair cut and lots of ribbons. She has a brother named Monty who is 13 and he was looking good too. We saw Amber on our way to the river. She seems to have made a remarkable come back after being so sick. Hooray. Down at the river there was the 2 Poodles I already mentioned. When I first got there Pearl and Duke were leaving but than ran back to the water with me. I was the center of of Yellow Lab sandwich. While we were there I was reminded that Duke is doing this really cool scientific thing. They take his blood and saliva every so often to figure out some stuff I don't get. All I know is that my buddy Duke is a scientist. While at the river a ton of dogs showed up. Bella, Cody, Manny, Buddy, Sadie, Daisy (Golden) and Mel. Thee was so much splashing and ball chasing and jumping it was a blast. We left the beach and saw Denver the Aussie. She was not feeling well last year but she looks great now. She can jump wicked high in the air to catch sticks. I think she does it just because she likes to. We saw Jack the Ridgeback at the bottom of the hill. We stopped and talked awhile. I really like him because he is as big as me. My person was telling Jack's person about Mimi's possible surgery. My person says she is wondering how Mimi is going to walk on crutches? Good question! So, we walked the rest of the way with Manny. I found out the most amazing thing. Manny and Bosco are brothers. Like from the same litter brothers not just same family live together brothers. You know they look a lot alike! It was fun walking with Manny. He had a ball and mostly I just sort of hung out with him. There was a little running and stuff but I had already done a lot at the beach.

We saw Devil on the way out. I always think that is a funny name for him because he does not seem like a devil. Of course, he is not an angle like me either. We also saw my BDFF Daisy on the way out. I have to get a walk in with her some day soon. I was relaxed and care free today. It was a great walk and I am glad to be home with my family. Living together bros and sisters are a very cool thing to have. I have a lot of them. Love a person just because it feels good.

Merlin

Bosco! Where for art thou?

I know that this is a blurry picture but it proves I did run away on my own today. I am not just a mamma's boy.

Bosco! I got you message on yesterdays blog. So sorry I missed you and your girl! I wanted to thank her for leaving me a comment all the way from Spain! I am international! Also, thanks to Janie who leaves comments! She is my person's cousin that got us our spiffy collars with our names and phone numbers on them.

Today was almost to weird to discuss. I am very anxious and edgy. I bet my person would have made me stay home if she had realized how jumpy I was. There were a ton of cars in the parking lot but for a long time we saw nobody. We had time at the beach alone which was really nice but I was still very nervous. I could not stay in the water and chill. If I heard the least little thing I would jump up and look around.

After we left the beach off in the distance I saw what I thought was my boy Bosco! I ran with my fur flying in the wind and my tail at full glory. Suddenly, I realized it was a tall thin Black Lab. It was not Bosco at all. Well, that did it. That dog came up to me and I said "Hey, talk to the paw because my floppy ears are not listening." So, now I am sad and anxious. We saw Abby the Mastiff and Luna and Flannel ran by. They had a couple of people puppies with them that were probably walking on 2 legs for 7 or 8 years. I did not even care about them, that is how sad I was.

We went up the hill and shortly after we got into the big top fields I met a little Pug named Ramona. I was not in the mood for anyone but this girl won me over. I chased her a little bit and than she walked with us for a long while. She teased me into chasing her and I have to admit I became fond of her. I was too nervous for her person to pet me though. We ran into Willie and Nanook. My person told them how she had insulted me while discussing the Huskies beauty. I must give credit where credit is do. The peeps, they admired, pet and complimented me repeatedly. OK they are forgiven. My person is still working on it.

We walked out with Clyde the Chocolate Lab. He had a ball and I sort of tried to get it but it was not a big hide and pee game or anything.

We saw the wonderful Earnest and Birdie just as we left. I don't think I have mentioned those guys before. Earnest is an old man with lots of personality. Birdie was born with some disabilities and can't use her hind legs very well. I tell you this she is beautiful and her person is fabulous. OK I think we might have a thunder storm. That is why I am so nervous I think. I gotta go hide under something.
Merlin

another day in the life

So, I am posting late today because my person left and went out and I was without the computer. She is back now so I am able to do one of my most favorite thing in the world. Write my blog!!!! Well, my sister Mimi has to go see another Vet. He is a Vet that does surgery! They think her limp might be a tear in her knee somewhere. They have to sew it up I guess. We do not yet know for sure until next week. Sorry I said you were faking Mimi. We saw Caber and Niles right when we got to the park. My person asked their people a ton of questions about this new Vet. they had a fabulous dog named Dudley and before he died he had a bunch of health problems. They gave her good information about the new Vet. I will keep you posted on my big sisters progress.
So, I have to tell you something that even I find strange. The longer that I walk alone with my person the more I do not want to leave her. I stick really close to her. Peeps and pups are starting to call me a "mamma's boy." Well, when Mimi is not there I have to watch her all by myself!!! I need help!
So, we saw Tango who has been very feisty and jumpy.
She was walking with a cute little dog named Chester that had to be picked up by her person. Another little one named Annie stayed on the ground and really held her own. That was impressive with me, Caber, Niles and the feisty Tango. So, off we went and Niles and Caber took a right into the golf course. My person went the usual way. We ran into a cool guy named Chip and his sister Peaches the Corgi. Their person said that they had been to the vet today so she was walking off their trauma. Wow, Mimi has to go to a new Vet. Does she have to have trauma?
What is trauma?
So, after awhile we went down the hill today and I ran into a people puppy and his person. I realized I had met this little one before down at the river having a mud bath near the beach. His person put him down right in front of me. His person said "Watch out, anything could happen! I'd be scared if I were you." My person said "Merlin is really good with small children." The guy says "I was talking to Merlin." YIKES!!!!!!!!! I do like that little person. I sniffed him and he sort of poked me in the eye but I think that was an accident.
We saw Mable who I really, really like. She was with Sky the Aussie with the long tail. We sort of ran into them on and off through the rest of the walk. I really, really like Mable. She was the only thing that got me away from my person today! Anyway, I already napped but I liked it so much I think I will do it again.
Merlin

old friends

This picture is of my old buddy Lila, I have not seen her in a long while. She is a great Labradoodle with a super hop in her step. Again today I was sort of mellow but still delighted to be at the park.
Yesterday was a beautiful day and I did not get out at all. The only forgiveness I have in my heart is that it was because my peeps were all out with Our Girl. I guess there was something going on at her school again and everyone had to go. They were all really happy and excited acting but it meant that I got diddly. I am not sure if it was a sort of punishment for me rolling in dead things the day before. As much as I complained about the bath I got, after I got dried out I had a really good brushing. Well, my tail is at an all time high. It is puffy and bold and beautiful. I hate all that I have to go through to be at my best but it is worth it in the end.
So, first we saw Pearl on the way in. She is such a beautiful Yellow Lab. I think she and I are growing our dogship into a life long relationship. Anyway, we met a really cool looking Australian Shepard named Ellie. She was brown and white colored. I am used to the tri colored or sort of speckled colored Aussies. I immediately liked Ella and my person and her person seemed to be very friendly to each other. You know in that people way that does not involve butt sniffing. Go figure. Off to the beach and there we found a ton of dogs. Lets see, Liken, Ziggy, Molly, Mia, Bella and more that I did not know. We stayed awhile and I chased a ball for awhile but did not have any super good runs. Off we went and we saw Baily and a few others. There was a person waving at us but my person did not respond. Suddenly, she realized that it was Lila's person who is one of my person's original canine cronies. They did do that excited voice, arm wrapped around each other thing. So, Molly, Mia and Lila walked ahead of us a little and Mia and Molly's person threw the ball over and over for them. I played a little bit but was having a low key day.
We saw the Newfies and Turbo and Molly the Puggle at the end of the walk. All in all it was a beautiful day with old buddies. I am sleeping on all fours so I am going to call it a day.
Merlin

dead is sometimes good

SO, off I went today without Mimi again. The Vet comes tomorrow. We were earlier today than usual and we ran into Bosco straight off the bat. LUCKY. Bosco and I were sort of mellow this morning together. There was some running and some fighting over a ball but it was not our usual run all morning long. We saw lots of dogs today. We saw Niles and Caber, Bandit, Amber, Tango, Mel and a bunch more. Let me tell you the best and worst thing ever. At the beach we ran all the way across to the other side. Bosco went and looked for the tennis ball. I found something dead in the water. I don't know or care what it was but I dove head first into it. It was so great. I got up and dove head first again and again and again. My person finally saw me and gave me an urgent call. I went over right away because I had already had my fun. Everyone kept telling me how bad I smelled. I was so proud. My person was not looking so happy and we were only a third of the way through the walk. I pranced around big and proud and stinky. HOORAY for Merlin the stinky! So, all was great and then the bad news. We got home and my person was wacko. Off we went into the yard and I think we are going to play and she pulls out the hose and some shampoo. I was so mad. I scrambled away but she got me and sprayed water all over me and than soap and than water and she just kept it up. She took all of my good smell away and left me smelling fresh and clean. For a little while I was the hero that smelled of dead things. Now, I am just another dog who has a person who prefers good smells. It's embarrassing.
Merlin

i miss mimi

Hello fellow travelers on the road to the dog park. Mimi had to stay home again today and I hate to admit it but I miss my sister. It was a fairly uneventful walk until one incident toward the end where my person really hurt my feelings. I saw Ivy and Brady the Poodles followed by Pearl and Zelda. Everyone seemed happy to be out and about. I was missing Mimi so much that I did not even run into the woods. Let me say right here and now that I think today must have been Labrador Retriever day. We saw Booker, Winston, Maggie, Brody, Manny and Pearl. We did not see them all at the same time but that is a lot. Brody and Manny sort of look like my BDFF Bosco. I l like Manny and Brody but seeing them made me miss Bosco too. So, now I am missing Mimi and Bosco. I did run around with Brody and some cool dog named Ozzie for a while and that cheered me up. I passed Malcolm on "The Hill". Let me tell you the hill is a scary place on overcast days. Because it is surrounded by woods it is REALLY dark in there. It is almost like night time. Without my sister or friend I do not like it very much. So, I am feeling sad when up ahead I see Daisy. Hooray! She is with 2 Huskies who are Willie and Nanook. First my person goes on about how much she loves Daisy. She went on some and I started getting mad. Than, Nanook and Willie go over to her for a pet and she starts going on about how beautiful they are. "Look at Nanook's eyes!" she says. "Wow, what a fabulous coat he has." I was standing right there and she said nothing about me! Not one thing. Finally, I gave her a little nudge in her side and she says "Oh Merlin, you know I think your a beauty." So all the peeps start telling me how beautiful I am but it was too little too late. My person and I came home and she has been sucking up to me all afternoon. OK, my feelings were hurt but I think now I will just play it up and hope for an extra marrow bone!
Merlin

Peek A Choo

Peek~A~Choo 2006-2008 Our dear little hamster Peek~A~Choo passed away peacefully at home in her cage today 6/14/08. She was a sweet little girl who brought joy to us all. Our girl finally convinced the walking person to get Peek 2 years ago. The only walks sometimes person was deeply devoted to Peek A Choo. Also known as Peek A Dini she figured out how to unscrew parts of her cage and escaped many times. She was active in ball rolling and wheel running. All of the 4 footed have loved, chased and admired Peeka over the last couple of years. Mimi, in particular would give Peeks big kisses with her tongue that was twice the size of the hamster herself.She will be sorely missed by both peeps and 4 footed alike. Safe journey our little friend. See you at the Rainbow Bridge.

So, that being said I must tell you so many things about our walk. First of all Mimi came with me today. We were headed out of our house and there was the neighbors cat in MY driveway. My person tried to hold on tight to our leases but together we pulled so hard that she sort of flew down the stairs and let us go. YAAAHOOOOOO. We chased that silly cat down our street at lease 5 houses. A neighbor across the street was yelling "Oh, My God." My person called to us and we came back. The neighbor said "You have beautiful dogs. People should keep their cats inside ." OK we like her.

So, off to the park and guess what happens? Another adventure. We see Fast Eddie with no person. My person sort of lured Eddie with Charlie Bears. He stayed with us but would not get close enough for my person to get him on the leash. So, he came with us at a bit of a distance but soon ran ahead and found his person. She said he was probably trying to get into the blog again. Eddie's sister Chloe has a new summer hair doo. She looks good.

Down at the river we saw a cute Chocolate Lab puppy named Boomer. He looks like a Boomer. He is only 7 months old and looks like he is going to be strong. So, we did not stay too long because we had to get home because the peeps have to go somewhere. Going up the little, big , hill we ran into a beautiful Italian Greyhound named Fibi. She was with her person and Clementine. My person gave Clem her secret sneak treat. Tee Hee. Her person realized that Clem had a tick on her face. She held her and my person tried really hard to get it off. She could not get it off but she tried really hard. I hate those blood suckers! They get in there and just will not let go. YUCKO

So, we walked down my person's favorite path beyond the bench on the hill. Mimi and I saw a chipmunk run into an old hollow tree stump that was laying on the ground. My person slowed down but kept walking. She called us and called us but we just had to try and get that little sucker. I mean we were still all worked up about the cat in our driveway. My person came all the way back and walked into where we were. Mimi was chewing at the tree trying to make the hole bigger and I was frantically digging to get under the log. Our person was not amused. She was not feeling the great effort we were putting forward. She whipped out the leases and straight onto the lead we went. She let us off again when we got away from the dead log. She can really ruin a good time. So, we went on our way and got home. Mimi and I checked out the driveway really well and not more cats. Today was really an adventure day for sure. Guess where I am going now? Sleep.

Merlin

check this out

OK. This is about a cat but it still rocks!


http://www.cyberthing.net/video-play.php?id=105

Bosco is My Boy

This here is Daisy! I thought she looked a lot like Rosie and as it turns out they are sisters! How about that. Daisy is a beautiful Bernnese Mountain Dog. I am 1/2 Bernese Mountain Dog so I just love seeing these guys at the park.

We started off today with the magnificent Benji and Pierre. It was so weird because it seemed like the park was deserted. I liked walking with the French Bill Dogs but I do not get a lot of exercise. As we were approaching the beach, in the distance I saw my BDFF BOSCO!!!!! I love me some Bosco!!! We ran straight toward each other and off into the field. He had a ball in his mouth and started playing keep away, right away. Hip, hip, hooray! My person had the good sense to turn around and walk with Bosco's peeps. Do you know what he told me. His girl who has been away for a long time is coming home in a little while. I just can not wait to meet her. So, off we went to the deep water for Bosco's swim time. I ran right out into the water but I just can not swim as well as him. It was really fun though. We really are so much alike Bosco and I. We are both young, handsome and blessed with great peeps who know that we must go to the dog park and play!

Up in the top fields we ran into my other BDFF Daisy. Bosco's person threw the ball for the 3 of us a few times. It was great fun. One time Daisy ran out and grabbed the ball. Bosco and I did not even know that Daisy had taken it and we were out in the field searching and searching. We turned around and all of the people were laughing at us while Daisy was sitting there with the tennis ball and a big smile. Bosco and I casually pretended that we had been looking for something else out in the field the whole time. Drat, that Daisy is too fast! I love her and she is my buddy but she had a laugh with the peeps at out expense!

So, off we went and passed by a few dogs here and there. When I am with Bosco time just flies by. In the parking lot we saw little Scout but I was already "loaded up" in the car. All in all it was a great day. The Vet just called and rescheduled Mimi for next week. She has to stay home and rest until then. Bummer.

Merlin

socializing is everything

Today at the park felt like summer is really here. We saw lots of peeps and pups. My person was totally connecting with some good ole canine cronies friends of hers. First we saw Lucy and Charles. It has been a really long time. I guess their person was sick and than Lucy got a really big , well, zit. It was gross and painful and has kept them out of the park. Speaking of things that make you go to the Vet... Mimi has a visitor coming to see her at 1pm tomorrow! That's right , the Vet!
So, off we went and down at the river were lots of folks. Most noticeably was the littlest of all. He is a 6 month old poodle named Sebastian. He was so nervous around other dogs. His person said that this is his first real experiences socializing with others. Well, the park is all about socializing! Welcome little man! Come hang out with the big guys! Oh, I must back up a little.Yesterday Pierre and Benji's person found one of the discs for the Disc Golf game. My person called the phone # and told the guy that it would be left at the information board in the parking lot. Well, the Disc Golf guy called last nigh to say thank you. As it turns out the disc was gone when he got there. I hope someone took it to return it to him! But, do you know what he said? He said "One good deed far outweighs one bad. So, even if I don't get it back I wanted to thank you for trying to get it tome." What a guy huh? People can be wonderful!
So, off we went and we walked with Sebastian. We ran into Ridge and than later after the hill we saw Bella. Right after that we saw Turbo who was pinning for Mimi. His baby sister Molly the Puggle and Sebastian played a little. They are close in size and it seemed to work out. Soon we saw Skye who is a Border Collie. I really wanted to box with her but she is still not sure if she wants to box Merlin the great and powerful!. The rest of the walk was just sweet. I ran off from time to time to catch a chipmunk or 2. They are fast little buggers. Do not forget that I did once get a squirrel so a chipmunk would be just another conquest in my world. Have a great summer day today and don't forget to drink lots of water and sleep in the shade. It is a dogs life and I am glad to be one!
Merlin

I AM BACK

Hip, Hip, Hooray! I went to the park today and I am happy! Well, Mimi is limping again so she did not get to go. I told her to knock it off or they are going to call the Vet. She did not listen and I heard my peeps talking about just that today. It is OK not to keep up with me Mimi! Stop the limp thing. You will be sorry when you are in the big truck the Vet has and she is poking at you.

I have really great news. My people are all home!!! I am glad too because I was so afraid last night during that big thunderstorm. My person that was in the hospital came down stairs and held me until they passed. She is good people. I am not afraid to say I was afraid. When my other person who walks me came down stairs this morning she went and opened the back door. I ran outside and started barking my head off. If the outside can make so much noise I can yell about it in the morning.

So, we walked with Ridge today. I like that guy but it was better when he was a puppy and I chased him. Anyway, we went to the river and saw a boxer named Fergus. He was more of a people dog than a dogs, dog like me and Ridge. Off we went after a dip and saw the fabulous Pierre and Benji. Their new baby sister Trixie is finishing her shots next week so hopefully we can meet her then.

We saw Taz and Ziggy just before the hill. The peeps stopped and talked and I rolled in the high grass. I loved that a lot and got more wet than I did in the river. So, off we went to the rest of the walk. I was so happy to be out because I am all about the dog park. I wish my person would stay there with me all day long. We saw Bella right before we left. She is going to be 1 year old on 6/20/08. Well, that girl is just a miracle I tell you. Plus, Bella's person gave me really good treats. She made me "sit" before she gave it to me just like my person does. It is a conspiracy!

Now, as we were leaving I saw a car called a Cougar. I have a question. Why are there cars named after the jaguar, the cougar, the mustang, the colt, the stingray, and the rabbit, but not ONE named for a dog? How often do you see a cougar riding around? We do love a nice ride! Would it be so hard to rename the 'Chrysler Eagle' the ' Chrysler Beagle'?

Think about it my friends!

Merlin

short HOT walks

Hey Folks, My peeps are so swamped right now with people Vets and everything that I think I better pay attention to them. I will be back in a few days when things settle down! Hit that river and swim away! See you soon. Merlin

hot and sad

No walk today. My person that does not walk with me very often is not feeling well. She had to go to the hospital where all the people Vets get together and figure out what is wrong. My person was out early this morning with our girl to visit her. I forgive them both for not walking me even earlier than they went to see her. Feel better soon person who I share the snuggle chair with. I love and miss you. You can even have the snuggler when you come home.
Merlin~ Jessie, Mimi, Junior, Janis, Zazu,Peek-a-chu and Indigo!

Good to Be Back.

• Run Merlin Run!
  

We missed the park yesterday. I will give props to my person because she did get all ready to go but it started pouring rain! She did try. My person ran into Fast Eddie's person at some place that does not take dogs. The really good news is that Eddie was found within and hour or so of being lost the other day. My person said Eddie was humbled and therefore not in too much trouble.

So, we walked alone today until we saw Cody and Rio. I guess I will have to start saying Big Rio because there is that little guy now that I put the picture in the other day named Rio too. Down at the beach we ran into Pierre and Benji. Guess what they told me? They have a new baby sister! She is a long haired Chihuahua named Trixie. she is too young to come to the park yet but I can hardly wait to meet her. So, the famous 3 of Harry, Ricky and Tad showed up. Their person chucked a ball and I got it. Once again the peeps wanted me to give it back. No way. Well, I did give it back for a Charlie Bear. I am a sucker for Charlie Bears.

So, off we went and right before the big hill we saw Liken. His person always has a chucker and started tossing the tennis ball. well, I took off for the chase and suddenly a Rat Terrier named Dave was right behind me. Well, there we all went running and chasing Liken, Two dogs I don't know joined the pack. I think they might be called Moe and Larry because when Mimi and one of them banged into each other and sort of fell down, Liken's person said "Hey Moe, Hey Larry!" Liken got the ball and ran off to the deep part of the river! SPLASH! Up the hill we headed . Charging down the hill was Manny and Dave took off after him. I watched this one because they were going so fast even I got dizzy!We went off into the big fields and I was very hot and tired even though I had already swam. We saw Josie as we were leaving. My person really likes that girl. She is a sweetheart of a pup.

So, my only walk sometimes person has been very sick all week. I am sorry for her but she has been sleeping downstairs with me and I LOVE that. She slept upstairs last night and I missed her but I got to sleep on the big snuggle chair.

So, if dog barks in the woods and there is no person there, is he still a "bad dog?"

Merlin

I Love Biscuit

This is me and Biscuit!

We went to the park late today because my peeps had to go to the school Chevy works at to watch Our Girl do something. I wish I could go every single place they go but some weird places do not let dogs in. So, we met a little dog named Diesel who was really afraid of big dogs. He lightened up after a few minutes. We saw Taka who is a Shiba Inu. She is really pretty. Up ahead I saw a girl I met a couple of weeks ago named Biscuit. She had just been rescued from a shelter. Well, she is now DEFINITELY one of my very greatest BDFF. She is fast like the wind. She loves to be chased and play hard I and I love to chase and play hard. A match made in heaven! I must say that I had a bit of a time just keeping up with her. Her person had a people puppy that could walk on her 2 legs. I think it is a big mistake to teach this to these little ones. They do just fine on all fours. People, I just do not understand them. Anyway, we walked with Biscuit the rest of the way. We ran all through the lower fields. We took a short break and hung with my sweet little Bella. She is still healthy! Off Biscuit and I went running again all through the top fields. I ran into the wood, out of the woods, through the fields around in cirlcles and just went bonkers! I was due after a mellow walk followed by no walk yesterday. Hooray! Mimi barked at us at first but than she finally gave up and went on her merry way. My walk today was fabulous and fun but I am beat. Somehow I think my person sees this as a bonus for her! I am off to sleep off my Biscuit run! I hope I see that guy again soon! I must go sleep outside now. That is one of the best parts of my walk. sleeping afterward! Don't forget Heart worm and Tick stuff is now over due. Love a human for peace!

Merlin

rain

So, it is really, really raining this morning. That means I will be yawning, sleeping and hanging out with the cats. My boy Junior here has really taken to snuggling with me. I can't blame him. I am a very good snuggler! Stay dry and be nice to another species!

Merlin

Snappy Lives

So, sorry I am posting so late today. My walking person had to take my other person to the people Vet. I do not think she peed on the people Vet. I do that whenever I see my Vet just to let her know I still have some power. I am not allowed to use the computer alone so I had to wait. In addition to this insult they both came back smelling of some dog named Ginger. I tell you a dog has to keep an eye on their peeps at all times!
So, off to the dog park. Well, rumor has it that Snappy is still roaming the park. I did not see him but the bark around the park is that he is now in the lower fields. For a slow moving guy he sure gets around. He was probably hiding today because I am so stately and frightening. It was actually a very quiet morning at the park. We saw Luna leaving as we got there. Elka was down at the beach looking to get into it with anyone that came near her ball. Challenging her authority is something I might do some day. Today was not that day. We saw Pearl and a cool Portuguese Water Dog named,?, I can't remember. If I had been allowed to get this down when we first got home I would have remembered but my brain is as big as a tennis ball. I can only remember so much! Anyway, we briefly saw Tango the Aussie and Ridge the Yellow Lab. Tango was chasing Ridge instead of me and I found that to be a bit of a relief. We walked alone a long time. I must say that was really very nice. Mimi and I got lots of attention from my person. It is another beautiful day and we went to the "secret beach" and hung for awhile. My person sat on a big rock and Mimers and I went from the water back up to the rock for a pet and than did it again and again. There was no one around and we enjoyed the water, the sunshine and each other.
Almost to the end we saw Daisy! Hooray for Daisy, my friend and confidant. There were 2 other dogs with her. One was a Black Lab named Papi (Go Red Sox) and a Chow mix named... guess? Scout! So, now I know a Big, Little, Border Collie and Chow Scout. What a popular name huh?
OK I must go back to napping as my peeps are home and losing the sent of other foreign dogs that I do not even know!
Merlin

Tortoise vs. Turtle

So, I learned a very big lesson today. All turtles are not created equal. Remember the other day when I found the little Tortoise and Bosco's person picked it up? Well, we met a totally different kind of Turtle today. This guy was REALLY mean. Bosco had a tennis ball and it rolled up to this Turtle which was way bigger than the other one I found. You can see the tennis ball right in front of him in that picture. I though for sure it would be a good buddy. Maybe even a BTFF. (best turtle friend forever) but no sir! Right as Bosco went over to claim what was rightfully his. That turtle's head shot right out of his shell and snapped at Bosco. Good thing he didn't get him because I saw that that turtle had teeth. Razor sharp with a jaw like a vise grip. Everyone else went by the turtle and Mimi and I stayed right where we were. My person turned around and called us to come to her. Now, how am I supposed to do that? I gave Snappy (that is what Bosco and I named him) a big bark and than I sort of slithered to the very edge of the path and ran quick as I could with Mimi right behind me. Good thing we saw that snake the other day so I had the slithering lesson so recently. I am telling you as much as I love the Dog Park there are hidden dangers everywhere. Beware I tell you, beware!

So, I was a little shook up but we all bravely continued onward. Bosco's person threw the ball in the deep water but she threw it too far and Bosco could not find it on the other shore. Bosco's person is stronger than she knows.

At the beach we saw a puppy named Bruno. He is a Chocolate Lab little guy and I think he has great potential. We told him of the turtle known now as Snappy. I think our peeps were wise enough to inform his peeps too.

We saw Big Scout at the beach and continued out of the park with them. They had also seen Snappy! We passed by Little Scout on the way out. there were lots of people with people puppies at the park today. My person did not know any of them very well. Good thing or we would probably still be there and in harms way with Snappy on the loose! Be careful of things in nature that can appear to be harmless but are hiddding the truth!

Merlin

Looking 4 Fast Eddie

Fast Eddie was missing at the park today. He is a Puggle with brown fur. If you see him call his person at 413-522-3919. When we left the park my person did not see Eddie's person's car so he might have been found but I post this just in case.
So, we started off and before long ran into a pretty little Cocker Spaniel named Missy. She reported that all was OK at the park after last nights storms. That reminds me, don't believe Mimi. Our sister Jessie was so scared during the storms that she kept running up stairs and into corners. Mimi will tell you I was afraid too but really I was just checking on Jessie. It is the absolute truth .
So, right after that we saw a beauty of a Poodle named Popo. He was really spectacular looking and strong. Do I still need to point out my superior tail? Do you think I could compliment another dog without pointing to my assets? I know you want to hear about it so I will make you happy.
At the beach we saw Abby the Mastiff. Popo, Abby and I ran in the water chasing a stick. Abby walked all the way to the other side of the river. She is such a site to behold. She is graceful and beautiful as well as big and strong. (please refer to the section about my tail). Mimi hung out at the beach mostly and did not even bark much. this is when Chloe (AKA-Mimi's twin) came by and said they could not find Fast Eddie.
We left the beach and ran into my BDFF's Ziggy and Pearl. THe black Lab, Abby was there too. I would like to get to know her better because she can run fast and play hard. We had time for a quick hello and off we went again. We saw The French Bull Dogs, Pierre and Benji. I do love those little guys. I like uniqueness and they sure have that. Onward we went and saw Bandit in the big fields. He is a good guy. We saw Logan and Jule (Name?) the Vizsla. I chased that girl a good bit. Their person was out jogging and even stopped and came back to let us run. It is good to train your peeps this way.
So, we saw that handsome Golden, Malcolm back in the woods. There was 2 Golden's up ahead but we did not get to see them because Mimi ran off and I had to go after her. Truthfully, I must keep an eye on her. She is a bit of a wanderer. She always says "all who wander are not lost." Maybe but I worry. Some dog has to keep the family together and that is my job.
I forgot to mention yesterday that we saw a SNAKE! Can you believe it? It was slithering on the ground trying to get to the grass. Mimi was interested in biting it. I was interested in learning to slither.. So, we met a sweet dog named Brewster on the way out. I am not sure what his breed was but I would guess he is Beagle and something. No matter, he was cool no matter what!
OK folks, let us know if Eddie was found. I really like that little rascal.
Merlin