Yes, Virginia, you can teach an old dog new tricks. Following an unfortunate incident where I recklessly ran across Asilomar in my haste to get to the bluffs, I've been learning 'Stay' and 'Come'.
I sit at the curb during 'Stay'.
When I hear 'Come!', I zoom across the street.
Nine times out of ten [variable reinforcement], there's a treat waiting for me.
Since my renaissance as a social guy, I race out of the house every afternoon when it's time to go mingle with Earnest.
Mornings are less satisfactory, as Earnest and his family like to sleep in.
I find it hard to manage my longing.
I just want to be with him, pee with him, eat with him, walk with him, wear a garbage bag bow like him.
Part One - The Cap
When Thomas' beloved knit cap was tragically ruined over Thanksgiving, Charlie secretly determined to knit him a replacement in time for Christmas.
It was an ambitious goal, given that Charlie knew nothing about knitting. However, he cast his search for a knitting instructor upon the waters of the Thiel network, found a teacher, and actually completed the cap in time to wrap it and put it under the tree.
Thomas was thrilled. He put the cap on and, other than giving us each a brief chance to try it, hardly removed it for the rest of the time he was at home.
Part Two - The Knitting Instructor
Our family was wowed by Charlie's tenacity and his knitting instructor's magical teaching skills. Whenever Charlie and I would catch up after he'd returned to San Francisco, I would ask after the Knitting Instructor. He always seemed to have lots of news about her. It developed that her name was Laura, and that she was a devotee of this blog.
Part Three - The Visit
Charlie and Laura came down to L.A. for a few days. Though they had planned a full schedule, it included multiple Lambie-centric events.
I was excited anticipating their arrival, but at the same time concerned that I would not meet Laura's expectations of me: that in the flesh I might prove less fascinating than I profess to be herein.
But when they arrived and Laura launched into a deliberation over what she could cook to make me happy, it came over me that she was there not to judge but to bond. I melted into her arms.
It was a great weekend. We took some walks together, and I showed off my 'Sit' skill set. Charlie and Laura also engaged with me in some rawhide throwing and mock-fighting, which is one of my favorite activities. I felt highly appreciated. Highly gifted, one might even say.
Impromptu photo shoot after my new haircut was revealed:
Incredible sunset shots don't just happen, you know.
Behind every great photographer is a helpful canine.
I shepherd, encourage, give suggestions on lens and f-stop, and help set up the shot.
Perhaps the closest analogy would be to Tiger Woods' caddy.
A very good man died yesterday of a very bad disease, ALS.
Kerry was thoughtful, smart, and generous; a sweet friend with a wicked sense of humor. He always made me feel appreciated, in the neighborhood and out at the bluffs.
He will be remembered, and missed.
That soft light seems to bring out our finest selves.
...I square my shoulders and wish for righteousness in the New Year. I hope there will be no more hit and runs, no more ALS, no more homeless children. More licks for all, opportunity and jobs, plenty of rawhides, and many happy times -- that is my dream for all in the year to come.
