Thursday – A Little Personal – Lucy and Bailey in Exile.

March 8, 2018March 7, 2018 ~ John W. Howell ~ 93 Comments

“Hey, Lucy. You look down. What’s going on?”

“Aw, Boss. We’ve been stuck on the lower level for years. It is getting tiring.”

“It’s been a week and five days. It just seems like years.”

“I’m sure sick of Candy Crush, Pops.”

“You guys want to go and check the progress?”

“Whoa, Pops. Now you’re talking.”

“Okay follow me. We’ll have to take the elevator.”

“My goodness. Look at this. Where’s the food bowl?

“It is still downstairs, Lucy. What do you think, Bailey?

“Let’s just say I’ve seen bigger messes but can’t remember where.”

“Come on you two. This is the new floor. It was a bigger mess before the baseboards were put back and painted.”

“Yes, Pops. We expected everything to look like it did before.”

“Yeah, I can see that. Well, it is going to be a while. The floors need washing and furniture moved back.”

“What is all that, Boss?”

“A shop vac, tools and some trash.”

“Geeze, Pops. Looks like this stuff will be here forever.”

“Well, it might be the weekend. But certainly not forever.”

“Hey, Baily. The day is beautiful. Let’s go out.”

“Uh. You should see the stairs, Lucy.”

“Oh yeah. What’s the problem?

“Come see for yourself.”

“Check it out.”

“OMG. You know what that rough surface can do to your mani-pedi?”

“Ladies. We will take the elevator down. No mani-pedi needs to be disturbed.”

“Boss you are such a Mensch.”

Thursday – A Little Personal – Lucy and Bailey Displaced

March 1, 2018March 1, 2018 ~ John W. Howell ~ 68 Comments

“Hey, Bailey. Come on let’s play. The sun is beautiful.”

“Hold on, Lucy. I hear something.”

“What is it?”

“Pickup trucks.”

“Yup. It’s worker approaching. Pops?”

“Yes, Bailey.”

“What kind of work are we having done now?”

“Floors, Bailey. I told you. Now you guys play while it is still light.”

“Look at our living room, Lucy. Someone has stolen the floors.”

“Hold on you two. No one took the floors. They have been torn up to be replaced. Look I brought a couple of beds to take the place of the couch.”

“Pretty skimpy, Boss. That couch was a gold mine. Is it gone forever?”

“No. Just till the new floors are installed.”

“Hey look at this. A puffy one.”

“Come on Lucy. I was here first.”

“And this means what?”

“Well, you could share.”

“I can see that’s not going to happen.”

“Okay, you guys. We need to move downstairs. The guys are going to rip out the underlayment.”

“That a good girl, Lucy. In the elevator.”

“With your cane, Boss.”

“I noticed. Hey, Bailey you coming?”

“I’m taking the stairs, Pops.”

“Here you are, Lucy. I have to say not much room.”

“That’s okay Boss. I have my beddie. Don’t need much else. Well, my food bowl and water. And toys, backyard, treats, and a ball.”

“How about you, Bailey?”

“Yeah pops. What Lucy said and her bed.”

“I don’t see that happening, Bailey.”

“The night’s still young.”

Thursday – A Little Personal – Lucy and Bailey Get Motivated

February 22, 2018February 21, 2018 ~ John W. Howell ~ 76 Comments

“Hey, Lucy. The sun is out.”

“Wa—huh. Oh, it’s you, Boss.”

“Come on let’s go outside.”

“Aw Boss. You know I’m still recovering from that teeth extravaganza.”

“How about you Bailey?”

“How about you Bailey what Pops?”

“Outside. You and me. Toss around the old tennis ball.”

“Mmm. Sounds delightful but I’ll pass.”

“Here. Take this toy. We’ll play fetch.”

“Gee Pops. Ever hear of siesta.”

“Sure, but you know I have a post tomorrow and I thought we could get some photos of a man and his dogs having a great time.”

“Hey, Lucy. You hear Pops. You in?”

“Oh yeah. I have the toy which you tucked under my paw. Now if I could only get up and take it to you, Boss.”

“Okay, you two. I can see we are going to have to spin this story in a different direction.”

“What are you doing, Pops?

“Bringing out the props.”

“There Bailey. You are now reading a magazine.”

“Pops I don’t read.”

“Doesn’t make any difference. This is fiction for heaven’s sake. Now you look at the magazine and I’ll create the storyline that you would rather read than go outside.”

“No one is going to buy that one, Pops.”

“Okay then. Here is Lucy reading all about celebrity pets.”

“Celebrity Pets? What kind of hogwash is that, Boss?”

“Oh come on. You can pretend to enjoy books on pets. In my story, you are going to ask how come you can’t have a pet?”

“A pet? I don’t want a pet unless it is stuffed with peanut butter.”

“Okay, Boss. We get it. Outside it is. This is more like it huh, Bailey?”

“You can say that again, Lucy. I have to wonder why we fight this?”

“Maybe cause it is the Boss’ idea.”

“Good point.”

Thursday – A Little Personal – Lucy Visits the Vet

February 15, 2018February 14, 2018 ~ John W. Howell ~ 78 Comments

“So Boss. What are we doing up at 5:00?”

“I’m surprised you know the time.”

“Twelve hours since dinner. It’s not tough. What are we doing?”

“We need to drive two and a half hours to the vet. Let’s go.”

“Why can’t we go to the one near here?”

“Because you need your teeth cleaned and our Vet in San Antonio is the best.”

“I like the car, but that’s a long way.”

“Lay down, and we’ll be there before you know it.”

“Thanks for bringing my blanket, Boss.”

“You’re welcome. Now take a snooze. I’ll wake you later.”

“What’s up Boss?”

“A little traffic, Lucy.”

“What is traffic?”

“We are getting close to San Antonio, and people are going to work.”

“Wow, it’s raining too. Look at those cars. Why aren’t we moving?”

“It could be an accident. At the least, the rain is slowing people down.”

“Shouldn’t you stop and wipe off the glass, Boss?”

“We have wipers for that Lucy. Look.”

“Ah yes. They move fast don’t they?”

“This is exciting, Boss. I’ve never seen so many humans.”

“Well, you did when you were young. You were born here in San Antonio.”

“I was? I don’t remember.”

“I’m glad you don’t, Lucy.”

“What is that noise, Boss?”

“There are other pups in the vet’s office.”

“I think My favorite doctor is out there.”

“Yes, he is.”

“I think I will jump up on him.”

“I’m not sure he will like that.”

“How will he know I’m glad to see him?”

“You could give him a shimmy.”

“I’m happy to report that the visit was very successful. Lucy has all her shots, a complete physical, and her teeth cleaned. She did need three teeth pulled because she doesn’t brush as often as she should.”

“I right here. You know that don’t you Boss?”

“Yes I know it Lucy and I’m so glad you are. It was a full day and now it is time to relax.”

“Night Boss.”

“Night Lucy. Sleep well.”

“I think the dope will make that happen Boss. Thanks for that too.”

Thursday – A Little Personal – Lucy and Bailey Face the Elements

February 8, 2018February 7, 2018 ~ John W. Howell ~ 70 Comments

“Hey, Boss.”

“Hi, Lucy. What’s up?”

“Um. Do we have to go for a walk today?”

“What’s the matter? We always go for a walk.”

“The wind chill is in the thirties.”

“Oh, come on you big sissy. You have fur after all.”

“Well ask Bailey. She’ll tell you.”

“Is that right Bailey?”

“Pops. it is a little cold out there.”

“Aw, come on you two. Let’s go.”

“This is not going to be fun, Boss. I’m just sayin’.”

“You have to buck up, Lucy. Look at Bailey.”

“Hey, Lucy. Do you see what I see?”

“My eyes are frozen shut. Tell me.”

“It’s a grader down the beach. Oh, Maddie’s papa is going to like this one.”

“Who wee. The wind is a little stiff, Lucy. Hang on to your ears.”

“I see you are right Bailey. Look the other way. There are front loaders too.”

“What are they doing?”

“They are grooming the beach. Taking sand and putting it back in the water.”

“What? I can’t hear you. This wind is crazy.”

“Look the other way. Just do it.”

“For heaven’s sake, Bailey. I’m freezing. We need to get going.”

“Okay, you lead I’ll follow.”

“Come on, Bailey. Run down here and take a look at that thing.”

“Okay, I see what you mean. That thing sure is noisy. Why does it beep like that when it backs up?

“That is so the slow-witted among us won’t get run over. It’s called a back-up signal. It only makes that noise when it backs up and it is the law.”

“You would have to be pretty dumb to stand behind that thing in the first place.”

“Human regulations for humans. Need I say more?”

“Well, this has been exciting, Lucy. I don’t know about you but that couch is calling my name.”

“I hear it too, Bailey. Let’s grab the humans and head back. I wonder if there is bacon today?”

“Naw you wouldn’t know these two are carnivores. Yogurt and apple for breakfast.”

“Yogurt is tasty.”

“Yeah with some turkey stirred in.”

“Never happen, Bailey.”

“I can dream. Let’s go.”

Thursday – A Little Personal – Lucy, Bailey, and Taxes

February 1, 2018February 1, 2018 ~ John W. Howell ~ 79 Comments

“Hey, Boss.”

“Hi, Lucy. What are you up to today?

Bailey and I just want to know what you are doing?”

“I’m working on our taxes.”

“What did you say, Pops?

“Taxes. I’m working on our taxes.”

“Is that why we’ve heard sounds like a wounded wildebeest?”

“Ha ha ha. You two slay me. I just am trying to figure out where to put things is all. ”

“Things. What kinds of things?”

“Oh, expenses for publishing for one?”

“Hear that Bailey? Publishing. So that is what he does up here all day.”

“Very funny you two. I’ll have you know I take this stuff seriously.”

“We know you do, Boss. Hey, where you going?”

“I’ll be right back. I have this receipt for supplies, and I left it downstairs.”

“Supplies, huh. How about our dog food. Do you have to count that?

“No. The government does not consider your dog food as a deductible item.”

“Ya hear that, Bailey? Dog food is not deductible.”

“Well, I think it is delectable who cares if it is deductible?”

“What is deductible anyway?”

“You are asking me? I’m a dog, not an accountant. Here comes Pops ask him.”

“Hey, Boss. What does deductible mean?”

“I’m not sure you’ll understand, but the government allows us to take away from our income legitimate expenses which are not taxed.”

“Um. Okay, Boss. My next question would be to ask what taxes are but let’s leave it there okay?”

“Smart Lucy. Trust me what you don’t know won’t hurt you. Look the sun is out.”

“Hey, Boss. You are right. Come on Bailey lets hit the sundeck.”

“Coming right up, Lucy. Pops would you open the door please?”

“Such a good dog. Here you go.”

“Check it out, Lucy. The sundeck is repaired.”

“My goodness that seemed like a long time but it looks like it was never damaged.”

“Yeah. Look over here. This end is back on. No more thrills when walking near the edge.”

“That used to get me. It was like a magnet pulling me to the edge.”

“Oh, stop Lucy. You are so dramatic. Feels nice though.”

“Hey, Boss when did they finish the deck?

“Last week, Lucy. You just haven’t been up here.”

“And thanks to the thing called taxes we heard your bellows and came to your rescue.”

“Pay no attention to Lucy, Pops. She is on this drama kick right now. Since I don’t have an opposable thumb do you think you could get the door?”

“Sure thing, Bailey. You guys going to stay a while?”

“I think we better go downstairs. You can never tell if these taxes things might be coming to get mom.”

“Good idea.”

Thursday – A Little Personal – Beach Time

January 25, 2018January 24, 2018 ~ John W. Howell ~ 74 Comments

“Well, Lucy. We finally have some time for a good old walk without freezing to death.”

“I know. I’m just wondering about the sun though. There isn’t any.”

“I know, but think of it this way. No panting. Besides look up there. I see some sun.”

“I suppose you are right. We can’t have everything so we should be positive. Let’s go down by the water. Come on humans.”

“Look at that Lucy.”

“What is it?”

“Take a sniff. What does it smell like?”

“Oh, it has a briny, fishy smell.”

“Yeah, you’re right. I wonder?”

“Wonder what?”

“What it tastes like?”

“Muufff. Strong bouquet of fish. Definitely has mouthfeel issues along with a distinctive eel-like finish. Patoo. Not for me.”

“I’ll pass too. Look over there. Shells”

“Hey neat. Good source of calcium.”

“You two leave those shells alone.”

“Yes pops. What’s he doing, Lucy? I don’t want to look.”

“He’s fine.”

“Have I ever shown you my bird dog imitation, Bailey?”

“No. I think you might need to work on it though.”

“How about my tracking bloodhound impersonation?”

“The same advice you gave me.”

“Okay, so who’s the wiseacre dropping plastic shampoo bottles in the Gulf?”

“I would love to test my locking jaw on their leg if I knew.”

“What do you say, humans? You had enough?”

“Yeah, Boss. Look at the cart over way down there. I would hate to have to carry you.”

“I guess you ladies want to go back, huh?”

“Well, here we are, Bailey. I had fun. How about you?”

“Yes indeed. Thanks, parents for the walk.”

“Our pleasure, Ladies. I mean it happens every day but if you want to thank us that is very nice.”

“Hey, Lucy. I have a question.”

“Shoot.”

“How come your leash is always loose.”

“Trustworthy, Bailey. Trustworthy.”

Thursday – A Little Personal – Housebound

January 18, 2018January 17, 2018 ~ John W. Howell ~ 76 Comments

“Hey, Lucy. Do you want to come up here on the couch you look a little down.”

“To tell you the truth, I wish there was something to play with.”

“I know it is boring when you can’t go outside.”

“Yeah, why can’t we go out?

“For heaven’s sake, Lucy. Can you take a look at the thermometer? It is 30 degrees F out there.”

“Whats that in centigrade?

“You tire me out, Lucy. You really do. We can’t go out there even in our blankets.”

“Why’s that?”

“Pops says the wind chill is too much for his old bones. Look at him. He looks zonked.”

“I heard that. I’m not zonked. Just resting my eyes. Mom is going to take care of you two.”

“What is that, Mom? Looks like a hedgehog.”

“These are pigs you two. Now go and have fun.”

“Hold on Mom. Not sure about this.”

“Okay, I’ll set it on the poof. You take your time.

“Hey, Bailey. Come sniff this thing.”

“Hmm. I don’t know about this funny looking thing. Look at the color.”

“Also check out those beady eyes. The thing gives me the creeps”

“Well, Bailey, there is only one thing to do.”

“What is that, Lucy?”

“Pounce, grab, shake, and kill it”

“Boy, you are an animal for sure.”

“Grrrr.”

“Mowaufff.”

“There, there, little piggy. I’ll protect you from the big bad Great White Shark. Can you oink for me?”

Thursday – A Little Personal – The Creature

January 11, 2018January 10, 2018 ~ John W. Howell ~ 65 Comments

“Hey, Boss.”

“Hi, Lucy. How are you?

“Just fine. You know I have something I need to discuss with you.”

“Okay, shoot.”

“Come closer.”

“Is this close enough?”

“Yes, Boss. What I need to tell you I don’t want mom to know.”

“Sounds serious. What is it?”

“Yesterday we were walking in the neighborhood and—”

“There is something in the storm drain Pops. It hissed at us and made a splash.”

“Thank you, Bailey. Do you know what it is?”

“No. I don’t think I want to know.”

“I’m telling you, Boss. You have to see this thing for yourself.”

“Okay, Lucy. How about on walk we investigate.”

“How about mom? She goes with us on a walk.”

“She’ll be okay. She needs to know too.”

‘So here is the dreaded sewer. I’m looking in here and don’t see anything.”

“Go closer, Boss. ”

“Still nothing. Why don’t you two come over here?”

‘Not me Pops. Lucy, you go ahead. Quit tugging my leash.”

“Uh, no. I’m good from back here.”

“Sorry Bailey. Well, ladies. I don’t see or hear a thing.”

“We are sure there was something, Boss. I think it is time to go home.”

“Well that was a bust. I guess we’ll never know what is in there.”

“I think you are right Bailey. It could be anything. Maybe a fish got caught in there.”

“This was no fish, Pops.”

“Yeah, Boss. It wasn’t a fish.”

“You okay though, Lucy.”

“I think I’ll have a little lay down. Things will look brighter at dinner time.”

“Good idea, Lucy. I’ll call you when its time.”

“You’re a mensch, Boss.”

Thursday – A Little Personal – Cold Snap

January 4, 2018January 3, 2018 ~ John W. Howell ~ 79 Comments

“You called Boss?”

“Yes, Lucy. It’s time for your morning walk.”

“Hold on, Boss. Have you been out there today?

“Yes. It is a little chilly.”

“Pops. Sixty degrees are a little chilly. It is thirty degrees right now.”

“Come on. How do you know that, Bailey?”

“You’re kidding, right? I’m a dog. It’s in my DNA to know what is going on outside all the time.”

“Do you agree, Lucy?”

“Well, as I take a sniff of the downstairs exit I can sense some cold air.”

“You guys are like the biggest chickens. It will do you good to get some fresh air. You laid around all day yesterday.”

“Well, there were reasons Boss.”

“Like what kind of reasons?”

“It was a Tuesday. On Tuesday Bailey and I like to lay around.”

“I know. I got a photo of you two.”

“Let me look, Boss. Oh, I see there is some sunshine.”

“See there you are. Come look Bailey. You’ll like it.”

“Um. In a minute, Pops. I need to do some creative thinking.”

“I can imagine, Bailey. How about you Lucy?”

“You know, Boss. Right now I’m good. Let me rest in this ray of death for a minute.”

“So maybe we’ll go for a walk later?”

“We’ll get back to you on that, Boss.”

“How about if I get out your blankets?”

“Now you’re talking, Boss.”

“Way to go, Pops.”

“You ladies look cute.”

“Why thank you. (As if we didn’t know. Right, Bailey?)”

“Right.”