Empty Nest

Son John has returned to the land of the midnight sun, only this time I think there is more dark than light and two inches of ice on the road without snow to help with traction when riding about the town. He had a good flight back to Anchorage for the most part, that is if you do not count the delay when the back loader didn't work and the little truck ran over the landing gear. Not damaged enough to ground them so off they took and had a successful flight. It had to have been a long day. Meanwhile I baby sat Emma, the beautiful Golden Retriever who insists on staying a puppy forever. She does understand commands and she can be very good but she prefers to ignore all and do as she damn well pleases. I think she and I have come to an agreement as she was very well behaved yesterday. I throw the Frisbee for a time and wear her out, then I give her half of a treat and soon she is catching up with herself until she figures I have had enough rest and then she starts bringing her toys, one at a time, shaking her head begging me to play tug of war with her. I worry about her teeth as she is strong and will not let go, even the command drop is a joke to her as she shakes her toy and looks at you with those soul full eyes. I don't know who was happiest, Emma or me, when Pat walked in the door. She went wild for a second or two as her favorite person in the whole world came to rescue her from that mean old witch who insists on reading a book. Pat said the roads were slick here and snow covered the roads inland, and it was cold. She had no problem which was good and I was very happy to have her home. Today she is leading Emma to a class in obedience. It should be something to watch as Emma has a mind of her own. Hopefully she will get the message early and learn a few good lessons on deportment. I can only hope. Puppies are fun but oh they can wear you to a frazzle.


So today, if you have a pet, be sure to take it out for a long run and tire it out so you can rest and relax for your Sunday. I was happy to hear that those of you who have had a 'bit of the bug' are now feeling much better. Stay warm and dry. The last week of February is coming up for the snow boarders and it is a time of hope for the rest of us as Spring isn't too far away. The jonquils are out in some of the gardens around here. The tiny single one at the edge of the hedges is peeking out too. The television program this morning mentioned that the Tee Shirts will be coming out much thinner as the cotton is going up in cost and the shirts will be made much skimpier but pricier . . . aah, the economy! Have you been watching the food prices? Up, Up and away, a great time to consider just what you will pay for a loaf of bread or an apple. Maybe if we become very choosy they will get the message. Life may not be fair but it certainly should be. Hugs to all.