Charlie's Christmas Day

As Christmas got closer and closer, Charlie got a little more excited. He knew something was up with all the wrapping of gifts, the sneaking around and hiding things and especially when we tried his reindeer collar and ears on for the first time. He even got to tolerate wearing them after a couple of false starts.

  

On Christmas Day,  his nose didn't stop twitching, sniffing ham in the oven. This time, when our buddy Pam came over, he only barked for a bit before recognizing her and settling down on her lap for a good old-fashioned petting. Imagine, 3 pairs of hands to pat him and rub his ears instead of 2! Could any little dog ask for anything more? Even he and Munchie achieved a Christmas truce!

His 'cute' look

He loved his new toys, especially the soft, fuzzy ones. He even got the idea of taking a few out of the stocking himself. I got the chance to wash his old toys (finally). He didn't much like that but he was occupied. He doesn't like squishy rubber or hard toys, he likes the ones that 'talk' or make music, the stuffy ones. I think that if Munchie doesn't go into his crinkly Santa bag soon, Charlie may end up peering out of it soon. 

His favorite new Santa toy to cuddle with and nibble on

We had the best Christmas with out little buddy. It's hard to imagine life without his little shiny eyes and big wet black nose. We can't imagine not having him insisting upon being cradled when we're watching TV, or his nose poking us for attention. It's tough to imagine not having him squished between us in bed or not laughing at his earnest expressions when he 'talks' to us and we answer him. We look forward to what is yet to  come.

Adopt a pet today, adopt a pet for life. You won't be sorry. Happy New Year!

Charlie and his 'dad' Mike

Merry Christmas from Charlie and his family. Bless you all on your adventures during the Christmas season and throughout a bright new year. May you find many interesting scents and discover each exciting path along the way!

Charlie's First Holiday Season

Charlie's hopeful Turkey Look

We survived Thanksgiving with no damage to the turkey and no fights between the "kids." Charlie even proved, after the first five minutes of barking at our guest, that he could be a welcome host to our best friend. She was impressed at how closely he watched her and gauged her reaction before he approached her, allowing her to pet and talk to him. His ears moved back and forth as he listened to her voice. Obviously, we haven't had any guests other than maintenance since we adopted Charlie in March. We lead a quiet life.

Mike and Charlie, playing Scrabble at Thanksgiving

Putting up the Christmas tree had to be supervised by both 4-legged creatures, of course. Once set up, both animals seemed comfortable, with Munchie taking up residence on the tree skirt. Charlie didn't like that, but eventually he settled in another warm cozy spot and so far, fingers crossed, peace has reigned in our household.

                             

We look forward to buying gifts for our furry kids and taking pictures as they play with their new toys. Even though we can't believe it ourselves, we are actually considering buying a little elf costume or reindeer ears for Charlie. We don't dare try dress Munchie! Be prepared for more photos!

Last night, Munchie made the great escape from our first floor apartment, pushing out the screen in the window and slithering outside. I had an uneasy feeling when I hadn't seen him for an hour. I shook his cat food bag and called him, but he didn't answer. Shrugging on a jacket, I walked around the complex calling him. Halfway around, I heard Charlie barking frantically. I rushed home, catching a glimpse of white behind the air conditioning unit opposite our place. Charlie rushed back and forth, perched on his little set of stairs while I grabbed Munchie and frog-marched him home, muttering to myself about cat's nine lives and how he had used one by making me walk around, calling him like a fool. 

Once inside, the 'brothers' greeted each other with sniffs, a quick head-boop and brush by Munchie and then the usual yaps and hisses as they chased each other around the apartment. All was right with the world. And yes, I shut the windows.

Here's hoping that all is right and good with your world this Christmas, and that you and your furry children have a wonderful holiday with lots of love, laughter, turkey and quality time spent together. Merry Christmas, from our place to yours.