Scenes From The Yard

                         The first day I arrived, I had just missed Jerry and Rachel who had set off for Mount Bachelor for the Summer Tour Rides they offer up there.  There was not a human soul in site and I settled in for a peaceful wait. Standing on the very edge of my new adventure.   Not knowing.  A  summer storm brewed magnificent and I experienced my first real rain in …..I can’t remember how long.

The  younger dogs grew restless and howled  and paced in circles round their houses,and the old dogs followed me round anxiously, rubbing their shedding coats on my legs, tripping with every step and gently and nervously nibbling at my hands, wanting reassurance.

Or just pretending so as I would pet them. I couldn’t be completely sure .

 

 

 

How many times can you fall in love in a day?

Apparently easily between 7 or 8.  These dogs astonish me. I have found that every now and then, even as a ‘dog lover’ , and lover of all dogs (ahem)  occasionally you will come across a particularly special dog. With that sweet, liquid  expression and intelligence in their eyes.  A ‘soft headed’ dog,  as Jerry calls them. But there are so many here. They are all sweet and bred especially so.  Indeed in some cases  are “marshmellow’s” , on the trail, and don’t make the best  race dogs!  Here. they love them just the same.

I’m getting faster at my chores.  And happier with every step.  Today I got to help put the dogs back in their spots after they got back from the mountain. It involves hooking your hand in their collar and close to your waist, keeping them upright on two legs as they bounce like Kangeroo’s back to their houses. I think its easier to control them that way.  It sounds odd, and maybe cruel , but not at all. They have these powerful, sinewy hind quarter’s and it seems totally natural for them. These dogs are athletes.

Monroe is one of the ‘retiree’s ‘ that roam the yard. He’s a front runner as a favorite of mine right now.  along with about 10 others!

He has been described as the Ambassador of the yard, the official meeter and greeter. Always smiling, weaving in and out between the chained up dogs, getting on with everyone, keeping the peace , a spring in his step. Whenever he see’s you he races over to visit, eyes glowing, head weaving as he trots as is to some tune is his head no one but he can hear. I haven’t decided what it is yet.  Maybe something funkadelic…or just some straight up big band standards!

And this is Twister.  Always with something to say.  Tempting me to play, or pet him or maybe just hang out for a while.

Larry settles down once more at the end of the day. He wears his heart on his head, literally and is just one more super sweetheart of the yard.

Early evening is peaceful. Beautiful light and perfect temperatures.  

Bedtime for some.

 

….but not all.