The Texas Yankee

Fort Woof Debut

The weather in Texas, in particular on the weekends, has been nothing short of disappointing.  We have had an inordinate amount of rain over the first half of this year, which presents a problem when you want to enjoy outdoor activities.

However, finally, we had a Sunday morning where we were able to take Ranger for the first time to the Fort Woof Dog Park to mix and mingle with the other DFW area canines.  Eagle has been a vigilant attendee at the dog park over the last year, but we hadn't been in many months due to bad weather or other scheduling conflicts.

Ranger and Eagle both had such a great time.  We even ran into both of their "types" there; one was a Pug whose name we didn't catch, and another was an Airedale named Louise.  Here are some photos of them enjoying themselves, as well as being put through the ropes on the obstacle course.  Eagle will run through the tunnels and up and down the planks without a second thought.  Ranger, well .. he's still trying to get used to it. 

Dog Days Of Summer

Things have been hectically busy around our household.  Last week we went on our family vacation to Crystal Springs, AR where we rented a houseboat and basically did nothing significant other then relax the entire week.  Well, to be honest, we did swim, fish, jet ski, play games, and just enjoyed having no agenda for a few days.

The pups, on the other hand, have been VERY busy enjoying their summer immensely.  With all of the rain we've had in Texas, the lake is back up to our dock and the Pug/Airedale aquatic team is really enjoying the water activities.  We can't keep them out of the lake or the pool!

The Wedding That Was

Believe it or not, twelve days ago I took a stroll down the aisle with Charles and we tied the knot.  It was a small ceremony, just close friends and family, but it was, without a doubt, one of the happiest days of my life.  I'm not generally a sappy type, but suffice it to say that I felt just about every wave of emotion that day, and all good.  I was a bit nervous, but not about the marriage part of it, but rather the wedding and everyone looking at me part.  Here are a few pics of our special day.

Just before the wedding ..

During the wedding .. we look so serious!

We did it!

And of course, a few pictures of our dogs from the day.  I was disappointed that Eagle and Ranger didn't get to play a bigger role in our ceremony, but it was nice to have the reception party back at our house so they could participate a "little" bit.

Milestones

I've been so busy lately, mostly because we are getting married on the 21st of April, and even though it's a small, simple, uncomplicated ceremony and reception, there is still a lot you have to do.  In fact, only today did the last key element fall into place when I sweet talked a nice minister into performing our ceremony.

Unfortunately the groom has nixed the participation of my Eagle the Super Pug in the ceremony.  I was all ready to order him a tuxedo and everything.  I think he'd be the perfect choice for ring bearer.  But as there's no wedding party, I guess we'll have to go without pug participation.  I even offered to let Ranger participate as well, but no dice.  Oh well.  At least the "reception" is back at our house and both of the boys will surely be able to score a lot of yummy food from Central Market which we're having provide the "low key" catering.

Speaking of the special Airedale boy Ranger, today was his first day attending doggie day camp alongside Mr. Eagle.  When I called to check on them earlier this morning, I was told they were both having a great time and Ranger was playing nicely with all of the other doggies. 

Ranger also had his ears glued this week, which I wasn't keen on but apparently it's something they "do" with Airedale's so their ears don't grow all funny and floppy looking.  He looks goofy right now, though, and he hates the way his ears are, but it's only for a couple of weeks.

Finally, my learning to fly is coming along nicely.  Last time out was a round of touch and go's.  I'm at the point where I can fly the pattern without my instructor's constant interference.  I really just have to get my radio communications down, log a few more hours with dual instruction, and optimistically, I'll be able to solo within the next two months or so.  The problem has been weather, though, because on more then one occasion this crazy Texas spring weather has resulted in my being grounded.

So, as you can tell, things are progressing for everyone.  Texas may not be so bad after all.

Mutt Muffs

No, this isn't Eagle in the picture.  I do, however, have an interest in this product they've developed for canines that you want to take flying with you.

Rock Lobster

Two new toys.  Same old tussle. 

Until someone gives in.

An Airedale Named Ranger

Finally I am getting around to introducing everyone to Ranger, our new Airedale puppy.  He was born on December 29th, 2006 and he's lived with us for about a month now.  He's growing so fast that he's bigger then Eagle now!  Here is Ranger at seven weeks:

He loves Eagle!  Eagle has GROWN to love him.  Ranger just came in and basically claimed everything of Eagle's as his as well, including toys and the bed.  They get along well, though, and I think they really enjoy each other's company now. 

Tug Of War

I'm not sure who the winner was in these pictures, but Eagle seems to like to "throw down" with breeds of all types during his stays at Doggie Day Camp.  Not to mention that the dogs he's playing with are bigger then he is!

Code Red

Eagle is having his own crisis at the moment.  It involves our new Airedale puppy (still nameless) and Pheasant (related to Mallard, I'm sure).  Pictures and updates to follow, but suffice it to say, the puppy has already been treated to being whipped around over a dozen times in a circular pattern until made dizzy, resulting in the letting go of Pheasant.  Eagle is using all means necessary to retain control of his toy arsenal.  The puppy has already slept in Eagle's bed and eaten his food when he wasn't looking.  I think it's going to be a bit of an adjustment for everybody.

What's Up With The Pug?

We've been so crazy busy lately that I've really neglected updating this blog as often as I'd like to.  The holidays flew by, and now here it is, Valentine's Day already.  Here are a couple of pics from Eagle from last fall, the first is him working out on the doggie obstacle course at Fort Woof.  The second is Eagle enjoying some of the sporadic and very little snow that we've gotten a few times over the course of the winter.