Thursday – A Little Personal – Tempeste Makes a Break for It.

“You know Twiggy. I’ve been thinking.”

“Pretty dangerous stuff, Tempest.”

“I’m serious. I want to get outside that fence and see the real world.”

“That fence keeps you from eating everything on the ground.”

“So I’m told. I believe it keeps me from developing my full potential.”

“You keep eating sticks and leaves, and you have the potential of a walk across the Rainbow Bridge.”

“Oh, come on. Haven’t you wondered what life is like on the outside?”

“I’ve been there. Besides, I don’t eat everything in sight.”

“Suit yourself. I’m going to find a weak spot and break out.”

“Don’t come crying to me if you get into trouble.”

“You’re not going to rat me out, are you?”

“Of course not. You are free to be stupid if you want.”

“Hmm. This seems pretty strong.”

“That’s cause there is a support there holding it secure. Look where there aren’t any.”

“I thought you were against this plan.”

“I can’t stand to see you flounder around.”

“Okay then. Where would you try to escape?”

“I would look for a spot that seems shaky.”

“Any ideas where such a spot would be?”

“Try down at the other end.”

“I see what you mean. Thanks a bunch, sis.”

“I know nothing. This step has been used by a beetle.”

” I think I found a place at this end.”

“I hear nothing.”

“Twiggy. Do something to help me.”

“This is another fine kettle of fish you’ve gotten yourself into, Tempeste.”

“Call Mom.”

“You are going to be in so much trouble.”

 

 

120 comments

  1. equipsblog's avatar

    Not sure who has more imagination, you or the dogs. 🤔😆🐶

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Well, they are smarter, that’s for sure. 😀

      Liked by 1 person

      1. equipsblog's avatar

        That made me laugh so hard, almost had a wee accident. 🤣😉🐶😆

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          Those are the best kind. 😀

          Liked by 1 person

        2. equipsblog's avatar

          All the way home….

          Liked by 1 person

  2. Annette Rochelle Aben's avatar

    Little Missy… I am so glad that while you spread those wings, that you sustained minor discomfort. Nothing, I would imagine, compared to the tsking you received from Mom and Dad, or the “I told you so” you will hear for quite some time from Miss. Twiggy! ❤

    Liked by 3 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Miss Annette. Yes, I did get a bit of a lecture. I didn’t hurt anything but my pride. As you know, a girl has got to be free, so there is always another day. 😀

      Liked by 2 people

  3. Charles Yallowitz's avatar

    Guess it’s time to upgrade the fortifications.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      It is an everyday thing, sadly.

      Like

  4. Frank @ Beach Walk Reflections's avatar

    Kids having a sense of wonder and adventure can also be troubling. Just another example of not listening to the wisdom from elders. Then again, we learn from our mistakes. How much trouble did she get into?

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      She didn’t get into much trouble. Mom just said, “Busted.” She tries the Great Escape daily. Thanks, Frank.

      Liked by 1 person

  5. Liz Gauffreau's avatar

    I wonder if Tempeste has learned her lesson. Somehow, I doubt it.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      No, she will try again. If a fence is there, she will try to go over or under. 😊

      Liked by 1 person

  6. GP's avatar

    Oh boy! She got outside and surrounded herself with dead leaves – Mom must have been fit to be tied!!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Ha ha ha. Had she not been trapped and looking so pathetic, maybe. As it was, there was a laugh and photo. 😀

      Liked by 1 person

      1. GP's avatar

        That’s good.

        Liked by 1 person

  7. shoreacres's avatar

    That last photo’s a classic. There’s no mistaking the “Oh, whoops. Now what?” nature of her expression. One way or another, we’ve all been there. Only the nature of the fence differs.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      So true. Ours is a fence inside a fence. 😀

      Like

  8. Dan Antion's avatar

    “You are free to be stupid if you want…” Seems I’ve heard that expression before…along with, “don’t call me for help.” Poor Tempest, curiosity got the better of her. I hope she gives up eating the sticks at some point, John.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I hope she gives up eating sticks and leaves, too. I think it will be a matter of maturity. I would like her to have the run of the yard, but it’s too dangerous now.

      Liked by 2 people

  9. Staci Troilo's avatar

    I just kept hearing Twiggy speaking in Sgt. Schultz’s voice. Thanks for the smiles, John. I hope Tempeste wasn’t in too much trouble. Sending the girls belly rubs.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      All Tempeste has to do is roll on her back, and all is forgiven. She knows that, too. Thanks for the belly rubs, Staci.

      Liked by 1 person

  10. marianallen's avatar

    ‘“You keep eating sticks and leaves, and you have the potential of a walk across the Rainbow Bridge.”’ I laughed SO HARD! Poor Tempest! She needs another fence outside her regular fence so she can “escape” and still be safe. Of course, then she would try to breach the outside fence, and this could go on forever!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      There is a fence outside her fence. A big, beautiful backyard awaits a world of sniffing. She’s got to stop eating everything first. Thanks, Marian.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. marianallen's avatar

        I understand that. It was nerve-wracking, keeping #4 Daughter from eating bugs and bark, even with two parents and three sisters keeping an eye on her. The price of living in the country and heating with wood.

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          So you feel my pain. Thanks, Marian.

          Liked by 1 person

  11. Debbie's avatar

    You’ve outdone yourself, John! Love how Twiggy refuses to be part of her sister’s scheme and seems to know instinctively that it will come to a bad end. Love also how Tempeste refuses to back down when her curiosity gets the better of her … and the look on her face when she realizes she’s gonna be in puppy jail for a while is priceless!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      The Producer captured that shot and could only laugh. A get out of puppy jail free card.

      Liked by 1 person

  12. coldhandboyack's avatar

    At least there are lots of “snacks” while she waits.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Ha ha ha. Good one Craig. 🤣

      Liked by 1 person

  13. T. W. Dittmer's avatar

    Tempeste looks stuck there. Did you have to get her out of the trap?

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Yup, but it was easy. Just a lift of the plastic fence and she was freed.

      Liked by 1 person

    2. Susannah Bianchi's avatar

      Live and learn said Dad.

      Liked by 2 people

      1. John W. Howell's avatar

        Always a good lesson to be had.

        Liked by 2 people

  14. lois's avatar

    I love all of Twiggy’s quotes. She is an old soul. Tempteste on the other hand…😲

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      So true. Tempeste lives up to her name everyday. Thanks, Lois

      Liked by 1 person

  15. Susannah Bianchi's avatar

    ..“You’re not going to rat me out, are you?”

    “Of course not. You are free to be stupid if you want.” As only an older, wiser sibling can say.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Ha ha ha. So true. Thanks, Susannah. 😀

      Liked by 1 person

  16. Esther Chilton's avatar

    This is priceless. I love the look on Tempeste’s face when she’s through.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I know right? Thanks, Esther.

      Liked by 1 person

  17. noelleg44's avatar

    Don’t keep us in suspense! Was Tempeste rescued? Such a sad picture at the end. I doubt she’ll try escaping again!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Her Mama snapped the photo and then rescued her. All’s well that ends well. 😀

      Liked by 1 person

      1. noelleg44's avatar

        She is an imp, for sure. She needs to listen to Twiggy. That last photo was a masterpiece. Thanks for the chuckles this week, and belly rubs to the girls.

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          Thank you, Noelle. So glad you liked it

          Liked by 1 person

  18. Darlene's avatar

    Oh dear! That rascal Tempeste found a way out! I hope she didn’t get into too much trouble. ❤️❤️

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      A picture snap and a laugh was all the trouble she endured. Thanks, Darlene

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Darlene's avatar

        It’s something Lia would do. 🐶🐶😊

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          😀 These youngsters, I swear.

          Liked by 1 person

  19. Gwen M. Plano's avatar
    Gwen M. Plano · · Reply

    You’ve captured the adventure and added suspense. Well done, John. As always, your duo provided comic relief and elicited hugs from afar. Bravo! 🌞

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Glad you enjoyed it, Gwen. These two do keep us hopping for sure. I hope you have a super weekend.

      Liked by 1 person

  20. Tails Around the Ranch's avatar

    Uh-oh…busted, you little scamp! Best to avoid escape plans…no good will come from them, little Tempeste.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Miss Monika. I found that no good came with the quest for freedom. I have to admit, though, I will keep trying. Don’t tell my Mom.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Tails Around the Ranch's avatar

        Mum’s the word, little one.

        Liked by 1 person

  21. robertawrites235681907's avatar

    Oh my, John. Poor Tempeste. I hope she wasn’t hurt.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      No. Only her pride. Thanks, Robbie.

      Like

      1. robertawrites235681907's avatar

        Shame. Bet she gave you a fright.

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          I was in a doctor’s office, and The Producer sent me the photo with the words “busted” underneath. I knew she was okay. 😊

          Like

  22. D. Wallace Peach's avatar

    Tempeste is getting big! And a little courageous, John. Now, let’s hope she gets smarter about eating leaves and sticks. 😀

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      We can only hope she gets smarter. Thanks, Diana.

      Liked by 1 person

  23. Teri Polen's avatar

    That last pic of Tempeste – priceless, lol. Bond used to be a runner, and we always had to be careful when opening the door. Now that’s he’s older, he gets a couple yards from the patio steps and remembers how good he’s got it!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Tempest got out the door and ran back before I could even say anything. She just wants to get to the leaves in the yard.

      Liked by 1 person

  24. Kishan Mootilal's avatar
    Kishan Mootilal · · Reply

    Thank you for sharing

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      My pleasure.

      Like

  25. thomasstigwikman's avatar

    Our dogs escaped a few times and that was dangerous. Please Tempest stay within the fence. It is much safer for you, Twiggy is right.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      We have a fence inside a fence, so the danger is low. We don’t want Tempeste eating sticks and leaves.

      Liked by 1 person

  26. Rebecca Cuningham's avatar

    Lesson learned?? Time will tell… My mom calls this behavior in kids and animals, “Testing Testing 1 2 3”

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Ha ha ha. I love that, Rebecca. 😊

      Liked by 1 person

  27. petespringer's avatar
    petespringerauthor · · Reply

    Should have listened to the wily veteran, Tempeste.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Yes. Sometimes Tempeste gets too big for her britches. Thanks, Pete. 😊

      Liked by 1 person

  28. Hazel's avatar

    Though Tempeste is in trouble, I giggled so much in this story, John, especially about being stupid, is free if you want.🤭🤭

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I’m glad you enjoyed it, Hazel. You should know, Tempeste didn’t get into trouble. A laugh and a photo were the extent of the consequences. 😊

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Hazel's avatar

        Yes, if I’m one of the witness, that’s my reaction, too. Tempeste still looks adorable, even though he’s trap.🤭

        Like

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          Her cute looks keeps her safe. 😀

          Liked by 1 person

        2. Hazel's avatar

          Indeed🤭 Just by the wiggle and stare, we’re solve.🤩

          Liked by 1 person

  29. Jacqui Murray's avatar

    That is hilarious. In a good way.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Jacqui.

      Liked by 1 person

  30. Teagan Riordain Geneviene's avatar

    Ha! When I saw the title, my first thought was “Oh sh!#…” But I had forgotten the little inner fence. You really brought out both personalities, John. Thanks for another fun visit with the girls. Hugs.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I’m glad you enjoyed it, Teagan. Thanks for letting me know.

      Liked by 1 person

  31. Author Jan Sikes's avatar

    Ha! Yep, a sister has to let her sibling get into trouble now and then. 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      If only to keep the spotlight off her. 😀

      Liked by 1 person

  32. Sorryless's avatar

    I admire how earnest Tempeste is, but she should have listened to her big sister in this case. The great big world out there, while exciting and mysterious, doesn’t guarantee a daily dose of kibble and a warm bed.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Yeah, she is a wild child for sure. Looks like a two-year puppy stint.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Sorryless's avatar

        She is a beauty, and she has a great life coach in Twiggy.

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          Advice seems to go in one ear and out the other. 😊

          Like

  33. Resa's avatar

    Gee, did Tempeste eat leaves and sticks and get sick? Did mom punish her?

    Not much of a run for it, though. Could be more like the runs from it.

    Anyway, what I am really curious about is that beetle theat used the step.

    Twiggy, I’d appreciate any info you have on that! Tell dad it’s buggin’ me!

    🪲X 🪲X 🪲X 🪲X

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      No, Mom just laughed and took the photo. She didn’t have a chance to eat any leaves, Miss Resa. The beetle threat is always with us. They stroll through here like they own the place. I like your emojis.
      🪲X 🪲X 🪲X 🪲X

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Resa's avatar

        NOOO!
        Not beetles!
        🪲X 🪲X 🪲X 🪲X

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          arrrrggggg 😀X

          Liked by 1 person

        2. Resa's avatar

          Yikes!
          Do they bother the roses? OX

          Liked by 1 person

        3. John W. Howell's avatar

          No. We have an organic spray for them.

          Liked by 1 person

  34. Lauren Scott, Author's avatar

    So cute, John, but she didn’t get very far, which is a good thing. 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      That is for sure, Lauren. Thanks.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Lauren Scott, Author's avatar

        You’re welcome, John! That last photo is priceless.

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          The Producer took that one.

          Liked by 1 person

        2. Lauren Scott, Author's avatar

          Kudos to The Producer!

          Liked by 1 person

  35. D.L. Finn, Author's avatar
    D.L. Finn, Author · · Reply

    Very determined with the expression of an angel 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

  36. Jennie's avatar

    So much trouble!! Tempeste, Twiggy is always right.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      So True, Jennie,

      Liked by 1 person

  37. dgkaye's avatar

    I’m sorry, but that photo of Tempeste bustin through is hilarious! She’ll never listen to the voice of reason. 🙂 🙂

    Like

  38. kethuprofumo's avatar

    😂😂😂Tempeste’s unexpected journey))) I wonder what she really thinks during these adventures! Thank you for the report, dear John.🍻🍤🍤🍤

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I think she is wondering what is on the other side of that fence inside a fence. I’m glad she is not wondering what’s on the other side of the fence outside the fence. 😀

      Liked by 1 person

      1. kethuprofumo's avatar

        This is a question of time…. Let’s hope this idea will never strike her. 😂

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          Ha ha ha. Yes, let’s hope.

          Liked by 1 person

  39. Ankur Mithal's avatar

    Wise ol’ Twiggy.

    This line is a killer:

    “You know Twiggy. I’ve been thinking.”

    “Pretty dangerous stuff, Tempest.”

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Twiggy learned the fine art of the dry put-down from her sister Lucy. Thanks, Ankur.

      Liked by 1 person

Leave a reply to Teagan Riordain Geneviene Cancel reply