A genius business plan approved by our doggy friend Nick

Though I am happily retired, it has been suggested that it might be time for a side hustle. After letting Nick's Mom know I was painting over some letter openers (that I want to just give away) which had my name and business info from 35 years ago, she mentioned a few ideas for businesses to add to them to advertise. Mind you, I value her for her brains, dry wit and wicked sense of humor. Decorative Asbestos Tile - hard nope. Bespoke Athletic Ascots - tempting, but nope. Conversion Therapy for Straight People - interesting, but again nope. And last but not least - Gourmet Seaweed Twinkies and Coffee - that has possibilities, but nope. Then inspired by her suggestions, we discovered that Nick was totally on board with one of my ideas. His Mom jumped in to help with a comprehensive business plan. Not to brag, but it is genius.

At this point, I naively thought we had sorted it all out - meaning it wouldn't happen of course - but she came up with a terrific marketing plan. After all, if no one knows you're in business, it won't go very far. 

Now there are two downsides to all this. The first is that I can hardly keep my own yard in check, much less anyone else's garden. The other, far more important issue is that as upper management, Nick would be required to actually work for a living instead of simply bossing his Mom around. That would prove difficult. 

And the winner is....

Our weekly trip to the dog park meant I was mobbed by every dog there (mostly Shepherds, Huskies, and one giant Great Dane). I'm beginning to think they even know what the car looks like because they gang up immediately at the gate for their treats. Some will even try to take the treat pouch off my belt -- but don't worry -- they are gentle about it and do understand the word NO. What was notable about today's adventure was Baron's interest in slobbering all over the sweet Huskies. And here's the thing -- they not only didn't mind, they went back for more. Given that Baron is the size of a small pony, you might think that would be a deterrent, but he is nothing if not a big slobbery gentleman. So everybody was a winner today.

This is Baron:

These are his slobber mates:

And this is what his slobber mates look like when not being accosted:

 

A Sushi roll - nope - not that kind

There is an adorable dog on our street who is sweet but still very shy in spite of best efforts to win her over. Her name is Sushi, and her little cinnamon roll tail helps with that illusion. Here she is in all her sweet glory. First, those big eyes:

Next, a glimpse of her curlicue tail.

And finally, her wonderful upright, but still floppy, ears.

The very definition of adorable.

Taking over (as one should)

Bailey apparently has decided to takeover the guest room in her home. The way we know it is definitely her room now is the presence of her favorite toy, on the bed, with her.... Yes, dogs rule.

Lemonade stand with a ghoulish twist

Just to prove that I'm not all cranky and no sense of humor, when I came across this Halloween display, I couldn't help but laugh. It is a clever play on an American staple of a kid's lemonade stand. And so perfectly put together. Well done.

If you can't read the sign:

Across the street from that display was one that channeled an entirely different vibe and also provided a laugh. The expressions on the pumpkins holding the demonic cats -- priceless:

HAPPY HALLOWEEN.

Two perfect supervisors

Let's face it. Most supervisors hide away in their offices and pretend to do stuff...reports, planning projects, or, really now, mindlessly scrolling on their phones. Not this crew. Rascal is hyperalert to anything his Dad is doing. Dishes, he's watching. Cooking, he's watching. Cutting dog cookies, he's right there to make sure they're perfectly to his specifications. If Dad sits down for a minute, he demands attention (as is his due) in the form of scratches and rubs. He is relentless and his stare is a bit daunting. 

Nellie, on the other hand, is willing to give Dad some space by observing from the couch. She's even willing to give him his orders and then back off to allow him to proceed at his own pace. As long as he performs to her satisfaction, his annual evaluation will be terrific. 

Fortunately for Mom (me), they pretty much don't care because they know they have me cowed into submission on all tasks that are beneficial to them. Sigh.

The house supervisors in action:

Speaking of cherubs -- losing dear friends

I wasn't going to mention our two dear friends who have left us because this year has already been one of heartbreak. After passing by their houses daily on our walks, and Nellie still pulling to go see if they are behind the fence, I feel they need to have a send off.

Baloo was taken so unexpectedly (though we knew of his health condition), that the shock has still not worn off. That sweet boy always made our walks a joy. He even had a special bark just for us. He is sorely missed.

Our other loss was Angel. Yes, for a Labrador, she was very old, but given the love and devotion she got from all who met her, we still couldn't believe she left us. 

I don't know if there is a doggie heaven, but these two definitely belong there. 💕