WE ARE BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wow, so my person is back on her 2 feet and although I still do not see the logic in 2 feet I am glad she is better. 1)I get to go to the park again and 2) I was so busy warming her feet I did not get anything else done. 3) I am just glad she is back to rubbing my ears and saying "Good boy, Merlin." I really missed that.

(Rio)

We ran into Rio on our way down Chipmunk Ally. I really like this guy. He did a gorgeous doggie pirouette when I saw him. It is funny how he and I say hello. He did this great dance, I growled but than I got an itch so I stopped to take care of that and I lost all credibility from the growl. It seemed to throw our chemistry off and we never really got good playing under way. Maybe next time Rio.

Anyway, off we went and while I did not see any super great chipmunk/squirrel action, there were some ducks talking a ton. I could here them down the river where we only walk sometimes. They were all talking at the same time and I do not speak fowl but I think they were discussing upcoming plans for the winter. They are not around during the Winter months but I love when I see them in the Spring knowing that the warmth is on it's way back.

Off to the river where I took a full dip and the water came all the way up my sides but did not go over my back.

We saw 2 Pug puppies that were interested in getting into someones breakfast that had been regurgitated. Sometimes sharing is not a good thing. Off we went up the hill and my person took off into the woods. That can only mean one thing. She had to pee. She has not peed in the woods in a really long time. Again, why she does not leave it where other peeps can get the pee-mail I will never know. As we were leaving the woods we saw Pearl (Yellow Lab) and Lola (Black Lab) and the running through the big corn fields began. Lola eats the corn totally and completely so her person was trying to convince her that that is not a good plan. We turned around and went back the way we came and the excitement on the hill was almost more than a dog could imagine. Watson, (Malamute mix) Willie, (Husky mix) 'Lil Scout (Border Collie mix) the above mentioned Lola and Pearl and me! Wow! Up the hill, down the hill running, barking spinning, whirling, barking snapping! I am exhausted just remembering how much fun it was. Watson and Pearl seem to be unable to communicate about something. I am confident they will work this out. They are both such great dogs to be around and their peeps seem cool too.

So, back down to the river and up the hill where the bench is with Pearl and Lola. I was so glad my person had the wisdom to turn around because those Lab girls and I do love to hang together. It was an exciting return to the park and for that I am pleased.

Merlin the Content

out sick

Hey dog friends. My person has been a little sick yesterday and today. She will be OK but she can not handle the dog park. Maybe tomorrow! In the mean time I am laying on my persons feet and keeping them nice and warm. Merlin the Care taker

Rain Break

Well, it rained cats and dogs yesterday but that does not mean anything good for me and the park. Today it looks like it might rain any second but my person scurried us out in between rain storms. Although this is a nice thing it is not only because she loves me and the park that this happens. Yesterday I tried really hard to convince her to go to the park in the rain. This is not always the best plan but if I am pretty sure I am not going anyway than antagonizing my person is a fun sport! I just dig down deep and remember all of my puppy habits that made her crazy. For instance, I grab something off the bookcase and than do a little bob and weave dance around the big chair in the living room. My person starts off with a light "Merlin, drop it." I don't even think of doping it. I run to the other side of the chair. "Merlin. drop it." " Merlin, leave it." Now she is up and she joins my dance around the living room chair. She is not nearly as graceful as I am and I assure you that I am having more fun than her! "Merlin! " "I said drop it! Leave it! MERLIN!!!!"OK, this did not make her take me in the rain but it sure was fun.

So, today we went to the park and we met a nice old boy named Charlie. Charlie is 15 and he is blind and deaf. He got a good whiff of me and tried really hard to keep pace with me. I was impressed with his stamina and ability to continue to show the puppy that still lives within.

The river is high and it is rushing fast and furious. I stopped for a cool drink but spent no quality time there. I saw Elsie and her person and their people puppy. I love seeing Elsie because she is me with short hair. My person goes dog gone wild for the people puppy. She does the faces, noises, giggles etc. The people puppy responds with giggles and noises and smiles but not one sniff from any of them. How can you really find out about someone without a good smell. Where have they been? Who do they know? Most importantly. What did they eat and is there any for me?

So, off we went and we ran into Tad and his posse. I wish I could show you the picture but we continue to experience technical difficulties. Tad is a Yorkie with big attitude. I respect and admire him. Today he had on an e-collar and he looked like King Tad of yester year.

Anyway, in the big fields on top I saw Buddy and Mel. They were running and playing as usual. We saw my bro Bandit and a few others. As we were leaving we came across this here tree down across the path. I darted back and forth while assessing the situation. Should I go over? Under? HHHHMMMMM. I finally decided and proudly walked my person around the tree. Go ahead and take my advise. It will make your life easier.

I saw Amber and Birdie as we were leaving and my friend Manny and I hung out while our people yapped away! They like to do that! I do not care because I get to hand out a long time!

Merlin the Tease

fog brain

(Delhi)

Good morning lovers of tennis balls, sticks, bones and the dog dream that is our constitutional right! Wow, I really started off today hoping that the walk would bring to me the exhaustion that makes my morning nap so beautiful. we saw very few cars in the parking lot but Lola the Black Lab ran straight over to me and assumed the submissive position. I am a rock star! Before long on Chipmunk Ally we saw Tango behind us. she caught up and then there was "lil Scout. Tango went to the right as we hit the river and "Lil Scout and i went the usual way. I am so glad that "Lil Scout and I are hanging together more lately. She is the mostest funnest girl to chase.

We walked all the way together. A quick stop at the beach for a drink but we are not stopping there for long periods much anymore. The water is really cold and dogs with less fur than me really get cold. Anyway, we passed a few canine counter parts along the way. as we were headed back into the woods from the top fields we saw Flannel and Delhi. We had a quick hello but I insisted my person take a photo of Delhi because I see her all the time but have never had a picture in the blog. Speaking of pictures there is a bit of a problem with them today. I am not sure about it because my person takes care of this. I hope she can correct it soon because a bunch of pictures from today did not post. For instance, we ran into Ziggy who had a ball. I know there is a picture of me with said ball. That's right I got that ball and I laid there with it in front of me and dared Ziggy and "Lil Scout to try and get it. I even made little daring sounds to entice them to get it. Nothing! Ziggy's person made sounds back at me and Scouts person took the ball while I was watching the dogs! Hey!!!!!! What up with that? She threw it and Ziggy got it! well, I never! Off we went and finished the walk. I am still a little miffed about the ball but I did win it from the dogs.

Merlin the Conquered

Bonus

I am so nervous and crazed this morning. My person and my Bonus Person came on the walk. Don't get me wrong I LOVE my Bonus Person but when she comes I get all squirmy wormy and and than I can't focus on all of my doggy fun stuff. I kept running up to her and I was afraid to leave her alone. I know that my Person will protect my Bonus Person but only as good as a person can. Lets face it. The peeps all need a dog by them!

We ran into my pal 'Lil Scout and that worked out good because the peeps all stood together and had their cronie talks and I could run around with my gal pal and still keep an eye on my Bonus Person. That was fun but my mission was still multi faceted. You know I had to think about more than one thing.

(me and Lil Scout)

We went off to the river but only stayed for a splash and a drink. We ventured toward the big hill and guess who we ran into., Lucy and Charles!!! I have not seen them in so long! I was happy, happy, happy. My peeps were happy too and with 3 peeps together I felt a little safer in leaving them alone.

(Charles and Lucy)

I love to watch Charles and Lucy together. Charles is Lucy's son but they don't really care about that. In the picture Charles has Lucy by the collar and is leading her down the path. I am not sure that Lucy likes this but I get a dog belly laugh out of it. He grabs right on to that collar and tells her where to go. Those guys are too much. BOL (Bark Out Loud)

Back to the river we went with my old pals. We hung out for a bit and than headed out of the woods and back to the world of work. You gotta be playmate, guard dog, show piece, obedient and cute besides. Plus, my walk at the park today was not completely a relaxing time. It was great having my Bonus Person there. Do you know why? Because she loves me, she really loves me!

Merlin the Adored

Best Dog Friends Forever

Hello all dogs who read about my adventures at the park. I ran into Ziggy in the parking lot and she is in a much better mood than she was the other day. We walked down Chipmunk Ally and chased a couple of those little guys up and down the hill. I love to do that with my sister Mimi so having fun with Ziggy was good. Mimi actually comes close to catching the little guys. I am not sure what I would do if I caught one. I mean they are squirmy and have sharp claws. The chase is the most important part to me. Down at the river the beautiful Border Collie Skye joined us. She is full of energy and really wanted to chase the ball. Her person and my person have not talked in awhile so you know what that means, people yap, yap yap. Once again, no sniffing, barking etc just their flat mouths moving. I did not care because I was playing with Ziggy who had commandeered a ball.My main man Bosco arrived as we were there and the fun began. His person had the ball chucker,of course so off to the deep end we went. I had a blast there because as I arrived
I realized something fabulous. The water was no so deep. I could go way out in the water just like my bro Bosco. OK I have to admit it. I love Bosco. I think we have a Bromance going on. He is just the bestest buddy ever. We splashed in the water and even though Bosco is faster and gets the ball long before I do it is still the best time a dog could have, besides rolling in something dead. It is still the thrill of the chase that gets me. Anyway, the rest of the walk was nothing but the stuff that dogs need to achieve a Nirvana. Ball, running, jumping, mud, puddles, BDFF, you get the idea.None of the pictures came out that great today but this one sort of tells you what I am doing right now.

Merlin the Pleasantly Exhausted

The Weekend

Well, I did not post on Saturday. It was of course, through no fault of my own. It would really help if we had thumbs. So, Saturday was absolutely dog gone fabulous. We heard the beautiful birds escorting us into the park. I am not sure where the squirrels and chipmunks were but it was great to hear the birds. We did not see any other dogs for a really long time but finally, the fabulous Pearl.
My person turned around and we went back the way we came with Pearl. I love to chase her and play fast and hard. So we ended up back at the beach.

Soon it was a pack party when Winnie and Scooter showed up. Hooray, I'm an honorary Lab again!!!!

Some dogs I had never met before showed up.

A Corgi named Haily and a Great Pyranees named Lola. We were all immediate buddies and we all ran and played and splashed, even though the water was chilly.

Winnie was having a great time and I was happy to see it. She is going to have her surgery next week so remember the good energy to Winne.

Sunday was a more peaceful day. We saw Pierre, Benji and Trixie at the beginning of the walk. Later in the big field we saw Watson who has the most energy of anyone I have ever met. He was with his bro willie of course.

We walked down the big hill and the mystery that is people hit me again. I was running chasing squirrels in the woods and I saw my person slip on some stones and nearly tumble down the hill. She caught herself but it did make me wonder again about why thy walk on 2 legs. Had she had all 4's on the ground than one paw slipping would be no big deal. When you only have 2 down and one slips it could be trouble. I don't get it. It seems so clear to me. It's sort of like... If a dog barks in the woods and there is no person around to hear it does he/she still make a sound?

Hey, check out this spider web. I stood still watching this spider for a long time. You know, like 5 seconds. Anyway, I do not think I have ever seen anyone work so hard. I hope spiders get time to play too.

We finished the walk with Bandit who is a dog's dog like me. He is also a beautiful burnt orange color that I just love.

Merlin the Philosopher

Changing seasons

This morning we headed down Chipmunk Ally and I was reminded why we named it that. Above me in the trees squirrels were running and jumping from limb to limb. Sometimes a limb will come close to you nose and you think you might get a nip at one of those grey wonders and it leaps to another branch. Of course that does not tell you why we call it Chipmunk Ally. Under foot there are chipmunks running every which way. Usually while walking this way you are entertained by the singing of lovely birds giving you a morning salute. Not today it was a whirling gibberish of rodent talk. Now, I do not speak rodent but I got the idea that they are getting ready to stock up on food for the winter. If you pay attention to our friends in the woods you can learn a lot. So, I think the leaves will be changing colors and falling to the ground soon. You will get that great smell in the air and the crunch beneath your paws. I love it. In the mean time you get to chase squirrels and chipmunks while they are busy working and that is a dogs day of fun I tell ya!

We saw Ridge at the top of the big hill and he wanted me to chase him. I was trying to tell him the seasons are changing so I was busy kicking up grass everywhere so I can find my scent under the leaves and eventually the snow. I mean I am a dog's dog my friend. Then I saw it. The peeps put arrows all over the paths. Do they not think we know what to do when the seasons change? I know to kick up grass, pee and a few tricks I won't even write here because eyes may find their way here that should not know all things dog. There are secrets! Anyway, I think the peeps are trying to be nice but I am a little insulted.

Anyway, I saw Tango (Aussie) who was bossy and beautiful. Ziggy and a cool dog named Ella and I hung together for awhile. We were lucky enough to see Winnie and Scooter as we were near the end and finished the walk with them.

I guess if you are lucky enough to be a dog, your lucky enough.

Merlin the extremely Lucky

Mimi

The bestest news ever is that Mimi will not go back under the knife!!!! She is on 4 more weeks of leash walks and then another recheck. Sorry about no park but hey, it is better than surgery.

My person's cousin has asked a couple of very wise questions. 1) Are there ever dog fights at the park? Well, sometimes a dog will have to make a lot of noise, show their teeth, give a little snap etc to let another dog know their boundaries. From time to time a little fight might break out but the peeps usually break it up pretty quickly! Mostly we all respect each others moods and boundaries.2) Have we seen Mama Bear? Well, no I have not seen her lately and I have not heard anyone else talk about her. She might be sick of all these dogs around and be hanging further back in the woods to raise her babies. I did hear today however that a baby Snapping Turtle was seen yesterday by Pearl and Cody. If there is a baby... there is a Mama! Watch out those things are called "snapping" for a reason.

Well, I was off bright and early and I love that. We had the park to ourselves for a long while and I was really happy with my person. Eventually we saw Clementine and Luna. Clem got her treat from my person and the canine cronies chatted for awhile. I played with little Luna. She has grown up to be a very playful, lovable little Labradoodle. Off to the beach whee we saw Fred the Goldendoodle and Sallie the... I am not sure what Sallie's breed is but I am always happy to see her. That is us running in the field right near the river. Sallie is the white colored dog standing alone and the other is me, Sally and Fred.

Flannel was at the beach too. He left shortly after we got there. I turned around and here comes, Clementine, Luna and Deli. I thought I just saw Clem and Luna. Oh never mind. So, we eventually left and as we are walking out and who do I see but Clementine, Deli and Flannel. Hey, wait just a wag and a bark. What the heck are these dogs doing? I think they are trying to fool me somehow.

We saw Cody the Golden/Lab and Pearl the Lab as we left. That was who told us about the baby snapping turtle. Thanks for the heads up on that one.

Merlin the dazed and confused.

Love was just a sniff away....

OK, my person took no pics today. I don't care because my person and my bonus person both came on my walk today. "Happy paws are here again. The sun is bright and clear again...."
OK so we were off and running and saw Deli and "Oh my Darlin' Clementine..." Boy I am in a singing mood today! We ventured down to the river and Fergus caught up to us. Ziggy was already there. Ziggy seems to be feeling much better and was letting everyone know that she had a ball and nobody was going to take it from her. Pierre, Benji and Trixie came from the other direction and we had a mini pack party. My peeps had to keep me moving because Mimi has an appointment with the Special Vet today. Good luck my sister!!!
We saw Bandit and my peeps stopped to talk about something. I am never sure what it is all about. Something about patriots with red socks! Now if you understand that you are a better dog than me! A quick love fest with Bella and we were off again.
Up in the big fields we saw dear sweet Amber and a little Jack Russel named Charlie. Cody was toward the end of our walk and his tail is looking a little too good. My person had to snip a couple of burrs out of my tail the other day. I feel like it is a gaping hole and everyone can notice. Then, we see Cody and my insecurities just soar. What is a handsome boy like me to do?
We ran into that little people puppy who is there with his person and no dog. We walked with them all the way out. I like that people puppy but I did not get a good sniff at him today. That is OK I am sure I will see him again.
Merlin with his tail between his legs.

Merlin Returns!!!!

Sunday it rained. Monday Our Girl had to go see the people vet because she hurt her knee and now is walking around with sticks under her arms. I do not get to gnaw, run with or in any way play with these sticks!!!! So 2 days no park for Merlin. Then, last night

the whole family is going out and who do you think they took with them? Mimi! not Merlin or Jessie. Mimi! She met that really cool looking guy named Nookie. Did I get to meet him. No. Two days no walk and then I do not get to meet a cool dog like Nookie. He is the negative of Mimi! OK I bet they looked good together!

My person spent a lot of time yesterday brushing me. I think I have finally seen the benefit of this brushing thing so I did not squirm. So, today for Merlin's return to the park I was lookin' good. There at Chipmunk Ally I saw at least 6 chipmunks. I chased a couple but I just do not find the same enjoyment that Mimi does in this sport. Suddenly my 'ole pal 'Lil Scout was behind us . Now that I think about it.... Lil Scout is sort of a Merlin size chipmunk. That makes perfect sense. Well, I see the sport in chasing my little buddy. I chased her through the whole walk today! I think "Lil Scout is smarter than chipmunks because she does not have to run into tree trunks or scurry under a log to out run me. She can do that in a wide open field. Hey, I think I just insulted myself. well, who cares because I think I complimented Lil Scout and she is a good friend. When I was a puppy I would chase her all the time. Lately we have both been feeling a little less like running all that much but today was just like old times. Plus, I looked so good chasing her I wished I had a mirror to see myself in. I guess I will have to settle for the adoring looks of my peers and their peeps. It was a good day back and I must catch up on my beauty rest. A dog has to keep himself in good wagging condition!

Merlin the Gorgeous!

Sunday

No because of
Merlin the lazy

so many friends

I have mentioned before that weekends bring an influx of dogs that is welcomed and enjoyed. Today this little guy, Zevi, was at the water when I got there. I ran out into the water and laid down to get cooled off. This little guy kept running out and trying to get me going. I was so happy that this guy was not intimidated by my size in comparison to him. I got out of the water and chased him and it was fun.
I'm afraid I have to keep the blog short today. I am tired and I am in need of brushing and maybe even a bath.
Let me just tell you who I saw today. I do not always remember everyone but I do try. There are so many distractions like bones, balls sticks and other fun stuff sometimes I forget.
On the way down to the water we saw Zelda, Elsie, Ziggy, Pearl, Bandit, Pixie and a few more.
At the water was Zevi, Manny, Bella, Daisy (Golden) and a few I am sure I have missed. I did get the ball a couple of times today but not in as fabulous a manner as last weekend.
On the way out I saw Daisy and Fergus and met a Golden named Seamus. It was very humid but cool today. It feels like it is going to rain but I hope it doesn't. My Bonus Person and Our Girl are going somewhere. My person has promised my half of the hammock!!!! Wow, it might be a great afternoon.
Merlin the Hopeful

Better all The Time

This is one of my BDFF's Cody. The other day I said he LOOKED like a Rhodesian Ridgeback without the ridge. Well, he told me today that he is a Golden Retriever , Yellow Lab mix. Well, I am so sorry that I said the wrong thing in the blog. Either way you are a handsome devil and I think you are really cool.
So, my person's BFF is here visiting and he came with us on our walk. I say the more the merrier. I think the whole world should get to know the dog park. We were headed in when we saw Clementine and Deli. They were asking about Mimi when I heard something from behind. I turned and guess who it was. My BFF Bosco! How cool is that. So, the ball chasing and running around like crazy was under way. We went to the deep end of the river and we saw Cody, Pearl and Biscuit. Mel swung by for a big hello too. Let me tell you this is like a dog dream come true. These are some of the finest dog pals anyone could have. I played ruff with Biscuit, chased balls with Bosco, laughed with Cody and finally laid down because I was just spinning into a doggie frenzy that made me dizzy with unbridled joy. Off we went and ran into Liken right before the big hill. She has not been around as much lately it was good to see her.
As we got to the end of the walk we saw Daisy, Big Scout and Amber. For the love of all things dog gone good it is my lucky day. We went home and my person and her BFF went out really fast again. Well, they did not run nearly as much as I did. I am far to tired to go out again.
Merlin the Blessed

WINNIE

Hey, this is my friend Winnie. She has a sister named Scooter that is also one of my BDFFs. This is what I want all of you to focus your dog energy on. winnie is a cancer survivor and recently her very attentive peeps have found a lump. At the end of the month Winnie is going to have an operation to have the lump removed and

they will find out what it is. This is what we have to do. Put all of our dog energy together and create a vortex of good energy for our pal Winnie. She is 1o years old and she is a real sweetie. Make sure to pass this information on to all of your dog friends and especially puppies. Everyone knows that puppies give the very best energy of all. Good luck Winnie. We will be thinking of you.

This is Scooter and I frolicking about in the water. She is just so much fun to run and play with. We saw Winnie and Scooter as soon as we got to the park and started off with them down Chipmunk Ally. This is when Scooter gave me all the information about her sisters health.

After a moment to ponder all of this we realized that it was a beautifully clear and crisp morning. Scooter looked at me. I looked at Scooter, Scooter ran I chased and the fun was on.

The cool weather brings on my puppy energy and I ran until I could not run anymore. we went to the beach up the hill and all the way Scooter and I dashed off while Winnie had her own fun with hiding and making her person try to find her. Tee hee.

As we were in the top field we saw Ridge. Well, it revived a whole new revitalized dog energy and we ran again. I chased Scooter, Scooter chased Ridge, Ridge chased Scooter I chased Scooter. I was always the chaser because that is what I like best and it is also because I am not as fast as them but I will deny that if I am asked.

We saw the old posse of Clementine, Deli, Flannel and Luna. What's up dawgs? Your small people are all back in school huh? See I can figure this is all out. I have a small person too.

Then we saw Ziggy who seems like she is in a much better mood. Caber and Niles arrived and while the canine cronies chatted up a storm we all roamed and rushed between their legs. I got upset about all those dogs being so close to my person and I jumped up on her to remind her that she is mine. I have still not learned that that never works. She gives me that stern "down Merlin" and I feel bad to have disappointed her.

Than I think Naaaaa, she just says that in public but really she loves everyone knowing that she is mine. Yeah, yeah, that's it!!!!

OK so I am done with the blog and done for the day! Sweet dreams to me!

Merlin who will jump up again!

Remember 2 b good neighbors

New Time, New Friends

So, we did not go to the park today until 12 barks. You know right around the time the peeps eat their second meal of the day. You know the one that most dogs don't get. Not fair, not fair. Anyway, it was such a beautiful day that I did not even care that my person went out with her friend this morning and left all 3 of us dogs home alone.

We right away ran into a little girl named Sabrina. She is a 41/2 pound Maltese. I am very disappointed because none of the pictures my person took of her came out. I will have to try and get one of her next time I see her. She may little but she is spunky and her little legs move 100 miles an hour.

This picture is of a new friend I made named Levana. Levana is Hebrew for white. Well, that name makes good sense. You know what else this little girl came to live here all the way from Israel. Do you know how far away that is? Well, I don't know either but I came from Kansas and I know it is a whole lot further than that. Actually, the people that rescued her rescued one of her litter mates too and brought them both here! HOORAY for the rescuing people! Us pups really need you all. Thanks! Anyway, she is a real beauty.

So, after we passed the dog beach I saw a familiar dog in the distance. Is it? Could it be? Hey Turbo! We gave each other a high paw and I went right to looking for Molly the puppy Puggle. Turbo had gone one way and Molly had gone the other, making their person a little confused about what to do. As we got up the hill about half way we saw Molly. Some nice peeps had brought her with them in search of the person Molly owns. She showed up in a short time and all were reunited. I spoke with Molly briefly about the benefits of teasing your person but stopping before you get in trouble.

The rest of the walk was beautiful with the sun high above and a breeze in my beautiful tail.

I hope tomorrow brings the same weather and old and new BDFFs. (Best Dog Friends Forever)

Merlin the satisfied

Mimi

So, now that Our Girl is back at school it seems like we are back to our routine in getting to the park. I like that because we see a lot of the same dogs over and over. I saw Luna in the parking area. She has a cool hair cut. Both Luna and her person asked about Mimi. We explained that she had had some set backs after the surgery. As we walked away both my person and I were sad. This was the week that Mimi was supposed to be able to be playing with her friends full time. She is not going to be able to do that. Plus, she is still limping even though she on the medication. That could mean that she has to have surgery again. That does not make anyone happy. Just as my person and I were thinking about Mimi a chipmunk ran right in front of us. I did not even chase it because that is really Mimi's thing and I felt like it would be disrespectful.

I am pleased to report that the river has receded and slowed down. I ran into the water and laid down all by myself. AAAHHHH, peace and quiet.

We had just seen, Pearl, Mel, Tango and Maggie on their way out so I knew I had the beach all to myself. My person and I walked alone together for a long time. After the big hill we saw Sonic, Holly, Sculley and their person and people puppy. We walked the rest of the way with them. That Sonic is a beauty. I watched her run a bit and let me tell you those Greyhounds are gorgeous when they run. As long as they are running just because they want to, not because they are being forced to. That is very bad no good.

We saw the beautiful Caber and Niles as we were leaving. They gave me a high paw. Ziggy and her person arrived just as I was getting in the car. It was a good solid walk today. Not a lot of peeks and valleys just good solid fun.

I gotta go guard Our Girl's dolls, Sam and Nellie while she is at school. A dogs work is never done~

Merlin the security guard.

Always on a Sunday

Happy, Happy Sunday. we started off nice and early in order to miss the Sunday crowds. We saw Brody a Black Lab in the parking lot but we walked in different directions. We walked all the way to the beach before we saw another dog or person. What we did see was tons of what Hanna had left behind. There were all sorts of leaves everywhere and puddles galore. I do enjoy a little puddle water while traveling in the park so I do not mind that even a little bit. Shortly before the beach we ran int o Brody again. We were chasing a ball together when my buddy Cody the Rhodesian Ridgeback without the ridge showed up. He did not try and grab me by the hips and dance much at all. The three of us immediately started running and dog playing. Soon, Abby the Black Lab joined us and there were wide open mouths, rolling, jumping, hip checking and running galore. HOORAY for being a dog.

Abby and her peeps were headed in the other direction so Cody, Brody and I, Merody (just for today) took off toward the river. The river is so high and so fast because of all the rain. If you stayed right close to the shore it was ok because that tree that is hanging on by its roots sort of slows the water down right there. I had a blast but even at the shore line the water went over my back a little. I do not like that at all. Anyway, the peeps let us play there for a long time. I had fun running back and forth on the shore with Brody and Cody.

Hey, I want to be sure to tell you guys something really important about eating dead things and other things that might seem so good. Cody ate something last week and got very, very sick. He was in the hospital on IV's and stuff for a day and a half. The Vet said he ate something that poisoned him. The Vet said some mushrooms are poisonous and dead rodents sometime and bunches of other things.

First of all I am glad Cody is OK. There is one thing that makes me a little curious. The dead rodent thing. Now, do you think that dead rodents could really be poisonous? I am wondering if the Vet is bowing down to some special interest groups. I think maybe some powerful mouse lobby is getting the Vet to put this propaganda out there. What do you think? Just a thought.

Anyway, I am wet, muddy, tired and happy.

Merlin or Merody for today~

Saturday

I know we do not get hurricanes but we sure do get some of the rain. Nice meeting you Hannah. Move along now.
Merlin the home because of the rain

School is in session

We went to the park today even though it is so humid out my fur looks like I put it in curlers over night. I did not do that just to let you know.

Anyway, we did not do the entire loop but we did do the second biggest loop and I was happy about that. We passed a number of dogs as we entered but I was so focused on sniffing the ground you would think I was a hound dog.

When we got to the beach we saw Ziggy and a Boxer named Rufus. Right behind us came Willie and his brother Watson. The river is so low that can see all of the stuff hanging out at the bottom. I do not really care very much about what it down there as long as it is not anything that will scratch my belly. My friend Watson however saw this really big stick. He was brave enough to stick his snout down into the water and grab it. He pulled up a branch that was at least 2 big dog long and maybe as wide as a Dachshund. I was so impressed that I laid down and allowed Watson to give me a lesson in retrieval from the bottom of a river. His brother Willie got bored and started to walk away but I stayed the good student and learned a lot.I learned that I like to watch other dogs go through that effort while I lay there cooling off and holding court in the river. Good for Watson for working so hard to get that big stick.

We left the park and walked out with Ziggy. I heard her person saying that Ziggy has not been herself and seems a little depressed. Well, I can't say exactly what Ziggy told me but I did give her a gentle hip bump on her side. You know like an "it'll be OK pal" hip nudge. Ziggy and I have had our ups and downs but she is still one of the first dogs I met when I first started going to the park and I am a dog so I am loyal without question. I wish we had seen a puppy because there is no better therapy than a puppy licking your head.

Feel better soon Ziggy

Merlin the good friend

fog on the field

Wow, it was so foggy this morning I could not believe it.I was a little nervous and edgy this morning. I do not like it when I can
not see too far in front of me

Like standing by this tree. You can not see if anything or anyone is behind me. What if one of those big round things show up in the field again. What if Mama Bear shows up. What if there is a chipmunk I could chase. Yes, I have very good hearing and I can smell a Chipmunk ready to bite my ankle but I want to be able to see.

In the big fields the fog made it so you could not even see the corn. Finally as we got to the path right at the top of the big hill you could see it start to lift. Now, us dogs already share the park with runners, disc golf folks, corn fields, snapping turtles and even a bear. Well, really the bear lets all of us come there. Lets just face that up front. My point here is that I don't know why clouds need to take a rest at the park too. I suppose it is another lesson in getting along with everyone. We were at the park early today too. 7 and a 1/2 barks in the morning. If we had gone later we would have missed the cloud all together.

Enough about my cloud resentment. Our girl has started school again. The really sad thing is that this school does not have a dog. Not a real dog anyway like Chevy at her other school. The mascot at this school is a Husky! GO HUSKIES!!!

We saw Abby the Black Lab at the beginning of the walk. Passed a few dog acquaintances on the way but not a lot of dogs today. As I said we were there before the fog lifted so I am not surprised we ran solo. I saw Pearl and 'Lil Scout right as I was leashed up to leave near the parking lot. Wish I could have walked with them. Oh well, tomorrow is another day.

Merlin the looking to tomorrow.

My Girl

So, the days that happen like today are so weird. The peeps change the schedule on me. I get so upset because I think I am not going to get any walk at all and than something fabulous happens.

All of the peeps left and came back a little later. My person got all ready to go on the walk and Our Girl came and got my on the leash. I know she is Our Girl but today she felt like she was just My Girl.

We got to the park and started heading down Chipmunk alley and I chased my share. I miss Mimi because she is so good at Chipmunk chasing. We ran into a Beagle named Isac and a Poodle named Mia. Heading toward us on their way out was Bandit, Cody and Haily. A big stop and hello was definitely in order. Soon we ran into Elka and Bella the dog who lived. Our girl had never met Bella before so we had to have formal introductions. That Bella has class because she jumped up and kissed Our Girl a bunch of times. She knows a good soul when she sees one.

So, we went to the beach and up the big hill. At the top of the big hill we saw Daisy and Eli. In the pictures Eli is the brown dog and Daisy is the black dog. They are both just super. Bones and Josie made an appearance and Bones tried to stay with our pack. His person called him back to him again BOL.

So one of the best things about today's walk was running with my girl. She would just say "Come on Merlin" and off she would run with me with her. It is so different than the dog escorts that jog with their dogs. Our girl seems to run for the same reason I do. It is just plain old fun. We ran over and over again and when we stopped she would rub my ears and say some of my favorite words "good boy Merlin"

We saw Tessie the Scotty with Denver the Aussie and Lenny the Labradoodle (I think.)I got in trouble with my peeps because I stole Lenny's ball and than snapped and barked at him when he tried to take it back. After we left them I dropped the ball. I only wanted it because he had it. It is done for the same reason I pee on everything in sight. It's a dog thing!

Merlin the dog's dog!

Labor Day

Hip, Hip Hooray for Labor Day. I have no idea what Labor Day is but I know that today at the park was so fabulous I laid down in the way back of the car on the way home because I had had a doggie run that was just a dream come true.

First I saw Manny and he is always fun to be around. I think I mentioned before that he is Bosco's brother (from the same litter bro) and he has the same sort of fun loving attitude as my dawg Bosco. So, I knew right away that it would be a good walk. We passed a few other dogs here and there and ran a little bit in the top fields. Mostly we just munched on nature's salad bar and took in the beautiful morning. At the bottom of the hill we ran into my girl Pearl. Pearl and Manny and I did the dodge and weave dance all the way to the beach. Pearl also loves the hip hug dance and Manny and I enjoyed that with her for awhile.

At the beach something very important happen today. There was the for mentioned dogs and a Black Lab named Brody. I know him and he is a good guy. Pierre, Benji and Trixie arrived. Fergus showed up and Watson and Willie came tearing into the mix too. there were balls being thrown left and right and I was getting a little frustrated because those retrievers really can take off fast and get to those balls. I try to heard them into place so that everyone gets a fair start to chase the flying object overhead. That never works so I usually bark a little and run about half way and just stop. One time today something different happened. One time! Just once. The ball got thrown in the air and all those retrievers thought it went one way but I saw it go the other way. I Merlin the hearder chased that ball all the way to the other side and I GOT IT! I brought it back and ran straight to me person. All the peeps clapped and the retrievers smiled. I put the ball down and it rolled between my legs and Manny got it but I do not care because one time Merlin got it. I am now Merlin the honorary retriever. I am so proud of myself. Go Merlin!

We stayed there at the beach a long time and had a ton of doggie fun. As we left we ran into a little puppy Vizsla named Finny. That is her in the picture with Pearl. We saw the might Sampson the Great Dane on the way out. I did not get a picture of him but trust me when I say, I felt like a little dog. That is good because you should always walk a mile in another dogs paws.

Merlin the Honorary Retriever