Xena’s Story: Paris Part 2

Published on September 12, 2020September 13, 2020 by Xena, Lucy and Chia14 Comments

Lucy: So Xena, it seems that your story character Xe has a new friend. What are they going to do? You can’t just leave the story there.

Xena: They’re going to have grand adventures, and another friend is joining them. In the meantime, I made a new page for my blog that has the whole story book up to here, with no silly interuption of Mommy grooming or you doing other stuff. Here’s what happens next.

PARIS REUNION

When last we met, Xe had just met a lovely French poodle named Gigi. They quickly became fast friends. Gigi offered to show Xe more sites in her home town, so Xe extended her stay at the Air B&B for an extra night. The next morning over café au lait, the little schnauzer regaled her hosts with stories of both her day in Paris as well as her adventures with her BCFF (Best Cat Friend Forever), Tye. Xe and Gigi had just returned to the Air B&B to prepare for anther fun day together when Xe got a text.

“It’s Tye!” Xe exclaimed. “She’s’ on her carpet, hovering over Sacré-Cœur. Let’s go!”

Gigi already knew who Tye was from their long talks the evening before. The pair ran as fast as they could to the stairs to the summit and on up to the butte Montmartre, the highest point in the city. They only stopped once to catch their breath before reaching the basilica.

“There she is! Here I am, Tye! Down here!” Xe hopped up and down and waved frantically with excitement.

Making a smooth four-point landing, Tye had barely hopped off her carpet when she felt Xe’s arms around herwith a big schnauzer hug. They grabbed paws and danced in a hoppy circle with excitement. Tye, in her fancy French beret, suddenly stopped as she saw another dog approach.

Gigi, who had been holding back, shyly approached the happy pair.

“This is my new friend, Gigi,” explained Xe when she finally stopped hopping. I just know you two will become good friends too. She has offered to be my – and now our – tour guide in Paris.”

“Meow, meow, meow! A friend of Xe’s is a friend of mine,” smiled Tye.

“Je suis heureux de vous rencontrer,” responded Gigi.

Tye turned to Xe, and whispered, “Uh, did she just swear at me?”

Gigi, who had very good hearing, said, “No, no, mon amie, that was ma langue français. I will speak your language, English, if you like.”

Having come to that agreement, Gigi offered – in English – to take them to the famous horse racetack, the Hippodrome de Longchamp Moulin. She explained that it is a lesser-know attraction where the locals enjoy losing their money. After paying their 2€ each to enter, they found the best seats, right in front of the track.

Xe, very confident in her running abilities, stated, “You see those horses? They could run faster if they didn’t have men on their backs. I bet I could even beat them in a race right now.”
“Ah, but you could not beat me.” The little poodle said this with such confidence that Xe couldn’t help but challenge her to a race.
As soon as the horses began leaving the track the three friends ran out onto the racecourse to settle who was fastest. Tye decided to let the race be between Xexe and Gigi, taking on the role of “starter.”

“Xe! Stop! You’re running the wrong way!” Tye called out as Tye tried to get her turned around.
“Wee!” exclaimed Gigi. “C’est fantastique! Je vole, je cours si vite!” (I’m flying, I run so fast!)

(A little later) “Wow, quelle fun?” Gigi exclaimed. “I have never before been in a race and I have never before been tossed out of a venue. Vous deux savez comment le vivre.” (You two know how to live it up.)

“I thought you said you would speak English so I could understand you,” complained Tye.
“Je suis désolé, er, I mean, I am sorry,” answered Gigi. “My English is actually very good. I just forget, since I was helping Xéxé practice her French. Now, let’s keep exploring.”

“Here is the Musée Picasso. It is a ‘must see.'” This time, instead of paying the admittance fee, the trio slipped in the dock door as the museum was receiving a delivery– something Gigi would never have done by herself.

“How strange all these paintings and statues look,” mused Xe. “That Picasso dude must have had a really warped mind to come up with all of this. Hey, Gigi, we never got to finish our race. Wanna’ try to catch me?” Xe started running with Gigi close behind. Several statues wobbled, almost tipping over. They stopped and listened at the sound of approaching footsteps.

Tye, oblivious to imminent company, was still thinking about what to do with the big-nosed man in front of her. “Hmm, this doesn’t make a very good scratching post. Maybe I’ll leap onto his head and take a bite out of that huge schnozzle.”

“Hey! You three, what are you doing in there?” a guard asked as he approached. Gigi quickly translated the guard’s French.
“Nothing,” they all said in unison, with wide eyes and ready to flee.
“Sortez!” He gave them all a stern look while Gigi told Tye and Xe that they were being thrown out of the museum.
The friends ran for the nearest exit, trying not to do any damage on their way. They got outside and stopped at the bottom of the stairs, woofing and meowing in laughter.
“That is two times – deux fois – we have been thrown out of somewhere! How fun!” laughed Gigi. “Let us find our next adventure.”

As they travelled through Paris, they came to the pool of water in front of the Louvre. Xe quickly got out her ball and jumped in to cool down.

“Wee! Wait for me!” yelled Gigi. “I have always wanted to do this, but never before had the nerve.” The little French and German-American dogs played ball in the water until – once again – they got thrown out. Tye, not too fond of swimming, watched from the side, and clapped her paws and laughed as they they climbed out of the water. “Here, we will cool you off too,” woofed Gigi as she and Xe shook the water from their hair. “It is getting late,” said Gigi, “and I must go home before Maman wonders what has happened to me. She worries too much.”
“Come on, Tye, we can stay at my Air B&B tonight,” said Xe. “You will like our hosts, and I am sure they will let me stay another night. I have a nice room and big bed we can share. Help me remember to text Mommy to let her know I am OK. She worries about me, too, even though I am a big girl now.”

“Oh, that reminds me,” meowed Tye, “I promised to te xt Sho when I found you in Paris, and, with all the excitement, I forgot! I’d better do that too.”

And so, another fun day in Paris ended, with plans to meet up the next day.

Wordless Fast-Day Wednesday

Published on September 9, 2020September 9, 2020 by Xena, Lucy and Chia28 Comments

Thanks to Comedy Plus for hosting the
Wordless Wednesday Blog Hop!

Oscar and Elle: We need to hide down here tonight. Xena didn’t get her supper.

Xena hungry Schnauzer Warrior Princess

Grooming with Mom on Awww Monday

Published on September 7, 2020September 7, 2020 by Xena, Lucy and Chia14 Comments

Hi again friends. Sometimes Mom feels bad that she doesn’t have a puppy picture of me. I assure her that I looked exactly like I do now, just smaller BOL! Here, let me show you what I mean.

Left: How I think I looked as a puppy. Right: me now.

Today, instead of reporting on new grooms, I’m taking my reporter hat off to show you an awww moment. Slider is a pup who has been coming here for a haircut and bath since January of 2014. I’ve shown you pictures of him, but to refresh your memory – or for those of you who weren’t with us then – here’s a pre and post groom look at him.

OK, maybe not much difference, but it makes his Mom happy.

The new thing I wanted to show you is his puppy picture his Mom shared with us today. Can you even believe it’s the same pup?

I hope to be back soon in my Ace Reporter mode to show you more of Mom’s grooms.

Thanks to Comedy Plus for hosting Awww Mondays.

Love and kisses, Lucy

The Demise of Mr. Otto Man

Published on September 5, 2020September 2, 2020 by Xena, Lucy and Chia23 Comments

Mommy walked throught the house and said, “Eww, something smells like pee.” She sniffed around like a bloodhound and said, “Eww, this ottoman stinks.” She grabbed her gallon bottle of white vinegar and soaked poor Mr. Otto Man with it. After about a week, she took another whiff and said the vinegar didn’t work. “Jeff!” she said, “Help me carry this big heavy thing out into the sun. Maybe that will take care of the smell.” Every night she went out and tucked Otto Man in for the night with a big blue plastic cover. And every morning she went out and uncovered him. But, alas, he was “sick unto death” as they say. Mommy and Daddy loaded Otto Man into the back of the truck and Daddy took him to the Otto Man graveyard. Here is my memorial to Mr. Otto Man.

Me and my friends hung out with Mr. Otto Man.

Xena Schnauzer Warrior Princess and Angel Lexi

In Purrsuit of Flavors

Published on September 2, 2020August 31, 2020 by Xena, Lucy and Chia20 Comments

Xena: It seems Mommy found a way to both comply and to rebel, all at once. I will have to watch her techique and learn that trick. She said since a cookie sheet is usually used to cook sweets, why not use a pie plate – which is also used to cook sweets – to make an all-in-one main meal? With that in mind, she made a tomato pie — at our Dad’s request. Tennessee tomatoes are big and juicy and kinda sweet. You’d better have a napkin under one if you bite into it. And we are having a very good year for tomatoes. The fresh market just down the road from us has local tomatoes that range from the size of a baseball to the size of a softball. Mmmm. I can’t wait until this comes out of the oven!

Crustless Tomato Pie

INGREDIENTS
4 tomatoes sliced
1-2 teaspoons salt
1 Tablespoon butter
1 yellow onion sliced
1 clove garlic minced
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 Tablespoons fresh oregano chopped
1 to 2 fresh leaves basil, chopped
1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded, plus a little extra for sprinkling over top
2 eggs beaten
1/4 Cup pesto (optional)
1/4 Cup black or kalamata olices (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

Slice tomatoes and lay sliced on plates. Sprinkle lightly with salt and let sit at least 10-20 minutes, and up to 30 minutes.
Melt butter in small skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic and saute’ until onions are soft (about 8 minutes). Transfer to a medium-sized bowl.
Add cheese, eggs, herbs, and pepper to bowl. Stir to combine.
Drain water off of plates with tomatoes, With a paper towel, gently blot tomatoes to soak up excess moisture.
Arrange tomatoes in a single layer in a pie pan. Top with about a tablespoon (or more) of pesto and some of the cheese mixture. Repeat until all ingredients have been used, finishing with a layer of tomatoes. Top this layer with a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
Bake at 375 degrees for 30-40 minutes, or until edges are lightly browned.
Allow to sit 5-7 minutes before serving
Note # 1: Mommy used Buffalo Mozzarella, and it was too soft to grate, so she just mixed it in and it was fine.
Note #2: If her tomatoes look a bit strange, it’s cause she peeled and seeded them to be in compliance with this “no lectin” diet her and Daddy are on.

Can you believe they ate the whole thing in one sitting?! OMD! Not even any leftovers for us. Mommy’s gonna have to find someone else to help her with these food posts in the future. I’m done.

Xena Schnauzer Warrior Princess

Remembering Lexi

Published on August 28, 2020August 28, 2020 by Xena, Lucy and Chia38 Comments

Many thanks to Deb Barnes of Zee and Zoey’s Cat Chronicles, author of Purr Prints of the Heart – A Cat’s Tale of Life, Death, and Beyond, and founder of Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day. And to Ann at Zoolatry for hosting this blog hop.

Lexi got her first title in Freestyle Competition in 2016.

Lexi in training at her first and third theater run in the Wizard of Oz, 6 years apart.

Lexi was often used as a prop “the little German dog” at the month-long Rocktoberfest event.

Lexi had to drop out of the Blogville mayoral race due to poor health.

Lexi had many jobs. One was to come to the Methodist church where I worked, where she was loved by everyone. When she passed, the pastor held a memorial service for her, and everyone and their dogs were invited. This short video was taken outside of the church shortly before she crossed the rainbow bridge from the Big C at age 13. Warning: she is barking in it

Lexi was a different personality with whatever was asked of her. She knew her roles, and threw her entire self into each one. This video sums up her joy in life (look at her smile with the children) and her innate desire to bring joy to others.

I know that my heart-dog, my partner, is somewhere over the rainbow, still busy doing the things she loves.

Lexi the Schnauzer: May 7, 2003 – September 4, 2016

I love you, darling girl and think of you often. Your Mom

Almost Wordless Wednesday

Published on August 26, 2020August 24, 2020 by Xena, Lucy and Chia24 Comments

Thanks to Comedy Plus for hosting the
Wordless Wednesday Blog Hop!

The peeps are eating different than they used to. And sometimes they don’t even eat dinner.

Now they think it is a good idea for me and Xena to not eat dinner one night a week too. They call it a “fast,” but I think it should be called a “slow.” Do you know what we think of our forced participation? Phhthhhh!

Love and wiggles, Lucy and Xena Schnauzer Warrior Princess

Xena’s Story: Paris

Published on August 22, 2020August 21, 2020 by Xena, Lucy and Chia21 Comments

“I made it here to the City of Lights before dark,” thought Xe as her magic flying carpet hovered close to the iconic Eiffel Tower. “La Ville–Lumière,” she thought to herself. “Yes, I must start using the French I learned for when I got a chance to come here.”

“I’m sure glad I tied my suitcase to my collar,” she continued to muse. “There was quite a bit of turbulance over Turkey. All those big birds must have stirred up the air something fierce. Speaking of turkeys, my tummy’s starting to rumble. “Swirl,” Xe said to her carpet, that she had named Swirl, “take me to a cafe to get something to eat, please.” Xe had been taught well, and carried her manners over even to her flying carpet.

“It’s really late for my supper, but I remember that Parisians eat later than we do at home. Hmm, this place looks busy. I bet they have good food. I think I’ll ask if they serve steak tartare — two of my favorite foods in one dish. I love that the restaurants in beautiful Paris allow dogs to dine with the peeps. I might have to ask for some help with the menu if they don’t have what I want.”

As Xe walked into the patio area, a nearby couple stopped her and – with a lovely British accent – the lady asked if she was with anyone. With only a slight hesitation, she admitted that she was in town by herself, doing some sightseeing. At that, the couple smiled and invited her to dine with them, even offering it to be their treat. Of course, Xe thought they were going to share their food treats with her, and was only mildly disappointed when she realized at the end of the meal that they meant they would pay her bill. She did indeed dine on raw ground meat and egg, while often wiping her beard so as to not appear uncivilized. Not wanting to offend anyone, she accepted a very small glass of red wine and spoke as much French as she could remember. Mostly though, Xe lapped a lot of water after her long flight from Tyeland.

That night, Xe slept soundly in a quiet little B&B that her Mommy had booked for her. Her hosts were ex-pats from the U.S. and were excited to hear about her life in Tennessee. When she fell asleep in the man’s lap, he gently carried her to a quiet little room of her own and tucked her into a soft bed where, with a full tumy, she snoozed away the night.

Xe snoozed soundly until the dawn light peeked through the window.

Waking refreshed and ready to see the sights, Xe thanked her wonderful hosts with much tail wagging and promises to give them rave reviews on the Air B&B site. Off went the brave little schnauzer to visit the icon of Paris that she had spotted from the sky the previous evening: the Eiffel Tower.

On the way, Xe wondered about all the people playing in the Seine. Since the day proved to be heating up quickly, she decided to grab her ball from her little rucksack and jump in the water.

She swam up to a man who was all alone and asked, “Vux-tu jouer au ballon?” When he looked at her puzzled, she realized he was also American, so she said, “Do you want to play ball?” He readily agreed, tossing it only a short way. After many swims to retrieve the ball, Xe decided that although she was having fun, she didn’t want to wear herself out in the water. There was so much more to do and see in the City of Lights! She bade him adieu and swam to shore – with her ball.

She soon reached the boulevard around the Eiffel Tower, where she stopped to eat a bit of brunch. All that swimming had made her famished.

Xe bowed her head and gave thanks for her safe trip to Paris, for her new friends, for her Mommy, and for her food. While her eyes were closed, a French Poodle came up to her to see what she was “looking at.”

“Qu’est ce que tu regardes?” inquired the poodle.
Startled, Xe jumped and barely stopped a growl before the poodle could hear it. She covered her reaction by asking the dog’s name. “Comment t’appelles-tu?”
“Je m’appelle Gigi,” she replied in a soft voice. “Et tu?”
“Je m’appelle Xexe,” Xe smiled.
“Gigi et XeXe!” they both exclaimed, and thus began a new friendship.

Wordless Wednesday: Our Office Babies

Published on August 19, 2020August 14, 2020 by Xena, Lucy and Chia18 Comments

Thanks to Comedy Plus for hosting the
Wordless Wednesday Blog Hop!

Grooming with Mom: Georgia and Chief

Published on August 16, 2020August 17, 2020 by Xena, Lucy and Chia17 Comments

Hello friends. Lucy Ace Reporter back with you on the Groom Beat.

Xena: Hey Lucy, I thought I would continue with my story today on my blog.

Lucy: First of all, it’s our blog. And Mom asked me to report on our latest new groom today, so you will have to wait until another day. I was just giving Sweetheart Bear some loving time since you’ve been ignoring her lately.

Xena: Coming next week: Xe Tours Paris on her Magic Flying Carpet

Lucy: Hmm, that was easier than I expected. So, moving on, in today’s edition of Grooming with Mom, I bring you Georgia A. Georgia is a very tiny yorkie puppy. She is less than three months old, and this is her first groom. Mom’s previous client – the man named John who sent his daughter here for her tiny yorkie’s first groom (click here if you missed that) – sent Georgia’s family here too. John can’t come any more because he no longer has his own yorkie, but we bet he gets lots of yorkie loving from his friend’s yorkie puppie Georgia and his daughter’s yorkie puppy Chief.

During the groom, Georgia alternated between wanting to crawl onto Mom’s head and giving her sass about everything Mom was doing. Mom instantly fell in love with her and wanted to keep her, but didn’t think that dog-napping would go well for her grooming career.

About 90 minutes later, Georgia looked like this.

Mom trimmed under her eyes more after the picture was taken. We sure hope she grows into her ears.

When her dad picked her up, he told Mom who his folks are. They have Maggie, a poodle /shih tzu mix (pictured here) that Mom has been grooming for several years. Many of you sent prayers and positive thoughts for Maggie’s Mama, who had cancer, and she is fully recovered.

So this was actually a double referral to Mom, from both sets of Georgia’s grandpawrents. And speaking of yorkie puppies Chief was back this past week for his second groom. He did quite a bit better this time, but he screamed with every little bit of hair Mom had to pull from his ears. She was afraid the neighbors would think she was torturing someone, and was glad that the cops didn’t show up. Chief had a dark hair coat his first time here, but he is getting really light.

From what his undercoat shows, we think he is going to be even lighter next time.

Aren’t puppies great?

This is Lucy Ace Reporter signing off with wags and wiggles and a reminder to watch for Xena’s next episode of her adventure tales, coming soon.

Our Grandma’s 90th Birthday

Published on August 13, 2020August 11, 2020 by Xena, Lucy and Chia21 Comments

Hi friends! Like we mentioned on Monday, we went away for a long weekend. We rode for about 87 hours from our home in Chattanooga to Dad’s hometown, Fort Wayne, Indiana. We were going to celebrate our Grandma’s birthday. She will be ~~a zillion~~ 90 years old this month. She usually gets around in a wheelchair now, but her mind is really sharp and she loves us pups.

Lucy: I was at Grandma’s home in Ill-in- noise a couple of years ago, and she loves me most. Here’s a picture to prove it.

Xena: You’re full of bull bark Lucy. Grandma may have just met me, but didn’t you hear all the nice things she said about me?

Lucy: Bull bark? Bull bark?? Do you think you are swearing at me, Xena? Oh never mind. I want to talk about the trip, not argue with you. So anyway, every little and big space in the car was packed full. The trunk was full to busting, there was stuff packed on the floor of the back seat, and stuff under the passenger’s feet. Dad was planning on cooking a big Mexican meal for everyone…

Xena: Tell them who everyone is, Lucy.

Lucy: I will, but first I want to tell about the trip up. Everyone thinks I’m happy going on a trip, ’cause it looks like I’m smiling.

But the truth is, I get real nervous. Pretty soon I start panting. And I keep asking if we’re there yet. I even tried to climb into the front seat with Mom and Dad.

Mom finally stopped the car, put me in a harness and strapped me in so all I could do was sit or lay down. And pant. I got some of Xena’s special CB radio oil and that chilled me out for about an hour before I went back to panting.

Xena: It’s not CB radio oil, silly Lucy. It’s Sea Beady oil. It’s kinda like my Sea Rum, but I don’t have to get stuck with a needle, and I still get a treat with it.

Also, I was a “perfect child” the whole way there and back. I know I was, ’cause I heard Mommy say so.

Lucy: Yeah, sure. Anyhoo, on the way, we got detoured through a very rural area, down the backroads of Kentucky. All of a sudden, five teenager cows – I heard they are called calfs or maybe calves, but definitely not caves – scooted under a fence and walked into the road right in front of our car! Good thing Mommy saw them coming and slowed down. I saw them too, and got so excited that I started screaming at them. I wanted to get out of the car and make friends, but no one would unstrap me and open my door. We rolled along at the calfs’ (or calves’) pace for a short while until they all walked back onto the grass off the side of the road. We didn’t see a barn or a house or we would have stopped and told their mom and dad that their teenagers were playing chicken with the car.

We hadn’t gotten past the cows for long when Mom put on the brakes for a squirrel who decided he had the right of way. Shortly after that, a red fox ran across the road just up ahead of us. We think that might be a sign of good luck, when a red fox runs in front of your car and doesn’t end up under it’s wheels.

Xena: That was all the excitement on the way there. On the way back – yes, I’m jumping ahead, so don’t even say it, ~~Luce the Deuce~~ Lucy – a cat crossed the road a few yards up from the car. Mommy was driving and Daddy was resting his eyes. Immediately after Mommy said, “Oh, there’s a cat crossing the road,” she ran over a great big stick that made a crunching noise. Daddy’s eyes flew open, and I bet you know what he was thinking!

We finally got to a house, and got everything inside, including me and Lucy, and Mommy fed us an early dinner. I thought this was going to be great until we heard, “See you later,” and our peeps left in the car. Thankfully, there was a big chair in front of the window facing the road where I could lay for almost 87 hours to watch for them to come back. I wanted to be mad and tell and show them how upset I was at being left. But dagnabit, I was too happy to see them when they got back that night. And you won’t believe what happened the next day… yep. The. Same. Thing. Twice. There was a good part though.

I’m exploring the back yard and looking for critters.

The house was way, way, way, way out in the country and we had a ton of yard to run in and explore. And we went for long walks down the country road.

Lucy: Xena wants me to introduce everyone that Dad was cooking for, and who me and Xena finally got to visit with on Sunday night. Oh, and I found out that Bobbi and Jennifer are Dad’s sisters, and Josie is his niece.

Lucy: This is just a small part of the really wonderful big yard we got to run and play in. The peeps had put their chairs in a circle under a huge tree. I went around and greeted everyone, then Xena and me, we started playing. We went to the outside of the circle and played chase, round and round the circle of people, as fast as we could go. Sometimes we cut through the middle, too. It was kinda like tag. When one of us caught the other, we would turn around and change who was chasing who. Everyone seemed to enjoy watching us.

Xena: Then my Aunt Jennifer and her daughter Josie wanted to see some of the dance moves we do for Freestyle. Mommy ran in the house fast to find me some treats, and she grabbed the walnuts off the counter. Everyone seemed fascinated that I would eat walnuts. What stange people…why wouldn’t I eat walnuts? They’re yummy! Then Mommy and me, we got in the center of the circle and showed them a lot of our moves, including our special Viennese Waltz figure that I made up and that the judges loved!.

Lucy: Finally, it was time to make the long trip home. I panted the whole way and Xena was the “perfect child.” *sigh*

Lucy and Xena Schnauzer Warrior Princess

Baby Bridger on Awww Monday

Published on August 10, 2020September 4, 2021 by Xena, Lucy and Chia21 Comments

Thanks to Comedy Plus for hosting Awww Mondays.

Lucy: I love Bridger. He’s a tiny person. He’s like a little puppy. Except he doesn’t have any fur and he can’t walk. But boy, can he cry! He makes lots of other noises too, like giggles and churgles and murmerings.

Sometimes I lick his toes, and he doesn’t really react, but maybe he can feel my love and devotion Oh, did I forget to tell you who Bridger is? He’s Mom’s work helper’s pup, er, baby. He’s four months old now! I watch when his Mama changes his diaper. I might have to do that some day, you know, and I want to be prepared. Or I might get to eat it someday, and I want to be ready. Not that ~~I’ll admit~~ I’ve ever done that before.

Xena: Sometimes I hide behind Mommy’s chair when that baby is here. I’ve thought about turning off the computer ~~so I can get more attention~~ so Mommy doesn’t have to work so hard, but I can’t really do much with this cone of allergies surrounding my head. I sure hope Mommy hasn’t forgotten who her baby is.

I wonder which of these things turns off the ‘puter.

Sometimes I lay in my bed and ~~sulk~~ wait patiently for Mommy to notice me.

JenJen Bear keeps me company, and sometimes Elle and Oscar come by to cheer me up. Can you see Lucy reflected in the mirror behind me? Her bed is under Mommy’s table-desk.

I usually bark a lot when Miss Brooke and Bridger come in downstairs to go to the office. Today I slipped down quietly and greeted them nicely. I even went over to little Bridger to give a friendly wag hello. Mommy didn’t even know I was downstairs, I was so quiet, and Miss Brooke was impressed with my behavior. Unfortunately, she didn’t have any treats to give me. Unlike Lucy, I am not interested in a dirty diaper.

A little later when Mommy “went” to work downstairs, I went back down with her and did a repeat performance. Smile, wag, no bark. Mommy told me what a good girl I am. (I still didn’t get any treats, but I’m not giving up.) Mommy thinks the change in my behavior might be because of the CBD oil I am on to try to help with the itchies from my allergies. (CBD oil ordered from Miss Monika at Tails Around the Ranch. Check it out.) She doesn’t know that I’ve simply switched tactics.

Lucy: I don’t need drugs to be nice.

We also wanted to tell you that we just got back from a trip where we were stuck in a house by ourselves for 87 hours, almost ran over five baby cows and a red fox, and and got to schmooz with our peep relatives. Mom is going to help us post about that a little later this week.

Lucy and Xena Schnauzer Warrior Princess

In Purrsuit of Flavors

Published on August 5, 2020August 2, 2020 by Xena, Lucy and Chia26 Comments

We originally had a different post for today, but this is about food, and that is much more important!

Our easy, midday “meal” is always kefir in a soup bowl. We don’t get much, though. Sometimes we get berries in it, or other yummy things. Kefir acts as a pro-bi-ot-ic to help keep us healthy. It’s better than having to take medicine, fur sure. But that’s not what this post is about, right? So…we bugged Mom about this until she thought of one of her simple, any-time meals.

Our Dad is a great cook, but his cooking is usually a bit more complicated. Mom eats to live (unlike us, who live to eat) and doesn’t especially like to cook. This meal is a favorite of Dad’s, so we won’t let him know it’s so simple to do. We’ll go with the “she slaved over a hot stove all day just so you could have this” theme.

Mom and Dad always complain about on-line recipes where the author yammers endlessly with stuff no one wants to know, so we’ll stop here and present our easy summer recipe for you.

Sloppy Joes
1 lb ground beef
1 regular size can whole or crushed tomatoes
2 or 3 Tbs dill pickle relish
about 1 tsp sugar (we use 1/2 tsp stevia)
a little salt, to taste

Brown ground beef, breaking it up into small pieces. Pulverize tomatoes in a food processor, then add to cooked beef, along with everything else. Simmer for 15 to 30 minutes to reduce liquid. Pulse a few times in the already dirty food processor, just enough to make the hamburger pieces very small.
Makes enough for 2 to 4 hearty portions.

Mom makes homemade coleslaw to go with this. You can use store bought if ~~you’re lazy~~ you prefer, but Dad’s dietary restrictions means almost everything has to be homemade.

Also, since neither of them is eating bread, they put a serving of sloppy joes into a bowl and top with the coleslaw. They say it is yumdillyicious, but we don’t know, as we never get any of it.

I like laying in the sun almost as much as I like food.

Thanks, Phenny and Nelly and Shoko and Tyebe and Budd for hosting posts about food!!! You’re our kind of anipals!

Lucy and Xena Schnauzer Warrior “Food-Loving” Princess

Xena’s Story: Magic Carpet Time

Published on August 2, 2020July 31, 2020 by Xena, Lucy and Chia19 Comments

Lucy: Your story really had some punch last time. I can’t wait to see what happens next. Why don’t you take a break from practicing your Freestyle and write another one, Xexe?

Xena: Great idea, Lucy. Although I sure do love the cheese I get when I work my Freestyle figures with Mommy! Let’s see, where were we…

Part 3 Chapter 5: Magic Carpet Time

The day after the party, the sun was barely peeking over the tree tops when Sho began to purr in Tye’s ear.

“Rise and shine, little sister. It’s time to go pick up our renovated magic carpet and see how much we can carry on it to take to Canada. Wake up our friend, Xe, too.”

When Tye heard that they were going back to the magic carpet emporium, she shook herself awake, then shook Xe awake. She was secretly hoping that she would get a parting gift of her very own carpet from her friends in Tyeland.

“There’s something I haven’t told you.” Xena was trying to hold back a big smile as they entered the store. “I emailed my Mommy and told her that even though I love you a lot, Tye, we might need some time apart. So, you’ll never guess…she bought me my very own magic carpet. Apparently the emporium takes credit card payments over the phone!”

At this unexpected news, Tyes eyes got huge. She jumped up, grabbed Xe’s paws and they both hopped around together with joy.

“Have you picked it out?” asked Sho.

“Even though I explained that I am a ‘sperienced carpet driver, Mommy said I had to get the new, self-driving model with auto-pilot,” answered Xe. “Here’s the one I chose.”

When Tye saw the carpet Xe had bought, her face went whiter than it usually is, and tears filled her eyes. “But that’s the one I wanted,” she sobbed.

“We know,” purred Sho as she stroked Tye’s head. “That’s why I splurged with the rent money we got and bought you the same one. Now you and your BDFF (Best Dog Friend Forever) have matching flying carpets.”

Tye started sobbing harder with joy, and pulled her sis and her BDFF both in for a group hug.

“How about if we take them for a spin,” suggested Xe as she hopped up on hers. Tye didn’t have to be asked twice.

“Sho, take our picture,” the BFF’s said in unison, before breaking out in giggles.

Off they both flew out the door and across the top of the jungle. They could see King the snake and little Missy the mouse taking a leisurely stroll on the jungle path; lots of beautifully colored birds they didn’t know, as well as Tyeko, their next door neighbor; and various other inhabitants of the jungle. Soon, their growling stomachs urged them to tell the carpets to take them to Hut Canada, where they were hoping for more banana splits. Being mischievious youngsters, they got distracted once they arrived at the hut.

“Hey, Xe, do you want to try jumping onto the roof of Hut Canada with me?” meowed Tye.

Lost in her own thoughts, Xe mused, “I wonder what would happen if I climbed onto Tye’s carpet…”

“Girls!” cried out Sho. “I thought you were mature enough to have your own carpets, but maybe I was wrong.”

Startled, Xe said the first thing that came to mind. “Will you make me a banana split to go? I need to pack my suitcase. It’s a long way to Paris, even with my new carpet,” she explained.

“Paris?” Sho and Tye both exclaimed as the carpets settled softly onto the grass.

“That’s my second surprise,” giggled Xe. “Mommy also said that with my new self-driving carpet, plus me being three whole years old now, that I’m allowed to take a trip. I picked Paris. That’s where Mommy took me our first summer together, and I’ve been wanting to go back and see more of the city.”

While Sho made breakfast banana splits (they had granola sprinkled on top), they all chatted about everything Xe would see see and do in Paris. Sho also said that they planned on leaving for the country Canada the next day, so they still had some preparations to make. Then the sisters hurridly cleaned up the kitchen while Xe packed her suitcase.

“Give your carpet good directions, and listen to its warnings,” advised Sho.
“Have fun and send us postcards from Paris!” added Tye as she waved bye-bye.
“Text me your new address and I will send them there,” Xe answered with a woofy smile.

With barely a whisper, the new carpet rose from the green grass of Sho and Tye’s lawn. With a course set directly across two continents, Xe headed off to her next adventure.

Xena’s Life Video

Published on July 23, 2020July 26, 2020 by Xena, Lucy and Chia37 Comments

Xena: Hey there Lucy, did you see that I got rewarded for being such a good story teller? Have you seen what Mr. Google did?

Lucy: No Xexe, show me what Mr. Google did.

Xena: OK, watch this! It’s called my Life’s Story. Oh, somehow they got another schnauzer in there that isn’t me. She’s, Maddie, one of Mommy’s grooms. See if you can pick her out. Oh…oh, and you’re in my video too! Mr. Google must have known you’re my editor, te he.

I am joining The Cat on My Head for Sunday Selfies Blog Hop.

Xena Schnauzer Warrior Story Teller

Xena’s Story: A Party in Tyeland

Published on July 20, 2020July 18, 2020 by Xena, Lucy and Chia22 Comments

“Sho, is everything almost ready for our goodbye party?” asked Tye. “I can’t wait! I know there will be good food, but what about games? Are we playing any games?”

“I don’t have any games planned,” replied Sho. “That’s your department. I’m sure you and Xe will think up something. And it’s also a party to celebrate King and his little friend Missy renting our Hut Canada, and to thank Squish for taking care of the arrangements. Look, here come King and Missy now.”

“Great! the first game will be don’t step on King the Cobra. We play that everytime he comes over,” laughed Tye.
“They look hungry, but King always looks hungry. He’s enjoying his new vegetarian diet, but – just like Chinese food – he’s hungry again 10 minutes later. I’ll help you get the food out on the tables, Sho.”

“Ooo, a cupcake just for me,” squeaked Missy. “And it’s got banana tucked into it. Umm, excuse me Miss or Mr. Bird. Who are you?”

“I’m Tyko,” chirped their new visitor. “I live next door, and thought I would come over – I brought my own drink – to welcome my new neighbors. You two are going to rent the hut, right?” Tyko added as she reached for a cookie biscuit. “You two sure are an unlikely pair to be living together,” she added.

“I don’t mean to be rude,” interupted Sho, “but perhaps you should have asked the hostess and owner and current inhabitant of the Hut Canada before joining our soiree.”

“And perhaps you should have asked the snake if you could have any of his favorite biscuits before helping yourself!” hissed King.

“Uh, oh,” thought Missy, “I sure hope that bird’s wings aren’t clipped. She may need them in a moment.

Meanwhile, at the next table, Sho heard the sound of growling.

“This is my banana split!” growled Xe. “Can’t you see the American flag on the top? It’s specially for me!“

“Aren’t you going to share?” Tye growled back. “We always share.”

“No!” barked Xe. “This one’s mine. Get your own.”

“Stop it! Stop staring at each other and growling,” cried out Sho. “Oh thank Cat, here come Squish and her little sister Squash. I think things are whirling out of control around here.”
“Squish! Over here! I need your help!” Sho yelled.

Squish could hear the fear and distress in Sho’s voice. With a coconut-splitting trumpet, Squish rose up on her hind legs. Her landing didn’t quite cause an earthquake, but it did knock King and Xe off their tables and onto the ground.

“Now that you took care of that, can we eat?” squealed little Squash. “Look at the goodies Sho has for us!”

“Yes, she fixed me a giant banana split with mint ice cream, my favorite!” replied Squish.
“And Sho remembered my favorites, too – peanuts and bananas!” cried out Squash. “Can I have some of your whipped cream topping?”

Squish’s arrival seemed to have done the trick. King returned to the peaceful snake he had become, and invited his bird neighbor, Tyko to share his cookie biscuits. Xe and Tye, much embarrased by their own behaviors, mumbled “sorries” while Sho brought Tye her own banana split.

“I’m really sorry, Tye. I don’t know what got into me. Please forgive me,” Xe quietly woofed. “You can have my banana split if you want it. Here,” Xe said, as she started to slide it over to Tye. In case you don’t live with a schnauzer, let me tell you, it means a whole lot when a schnauzer will give away her favorite foods.

“I forgive you. And I’m sorry I growled at you, too. But look what my sweet sister brought me. And it has the new Tyeland flag on it, so I know it’s just for me, like yours is just for you. You were right about that, Xe. No hard feelings.”

Seeing that peace had once again settled on the land, Sho quietly slipped away from the party to begin packing. Hut Canada would soon be occupied by their good friends, and she and Tye would be leaving for a new home in Canada.

Nature Friday in Lucy and Xena’s Yard

Published on July 17, 2020September 4, 2021 by Xena, Lucy and Chia26 Comments

We are joining Arty, Jakey, Rosy and Sunny of the LLB Gang for Nature Friday, and thank them for hosting it.

Our Mom is not known for having what’s called a green thumb. But, God bless her, she tries. All the annual flowers she planted this year are on their last ~~legs~~ stems. We won’t depress you with those. However, last fall, on a whim, she dropped a potted mum in a hole in the ground where her last “failure” happened, thinking it would die over the winter and she could just lift it out of there this spring. Guess what! It’s blooming, and it’s not even supposed to bloom until early fall.

Just a little ways down from the mum is a hosta that Mom planted last year. She divided one big hosta into 4 parts and planted them all.

Something is eating the smallest one, down by the driveway. But take a look; the rest of them are blooming!

As you may have seen, we got a new porch built on the back of the house where our patio used to be. Mom and Dad decided they needed to “frame” it with something nice, so Mom and Dad drove the truck (it’s a law in Tennessee that you have to own a truck, we think) to a place where they use big machines to dump a load of pea gravel into the back – a whole ton! When they got back, Dad backed up the hill to the top, by the porch. First, they put down some kind of material to keep the weeds from growing through, then cut 4 holes in it. Mom sent Dad back in the car to get some hostas. She really likes hostas cause she doesn’t have to plant them every year! While he was gone, she dug 4 big holes in the ground where they had cut the fabric, then put a black plastic edging around it all to keep the stones confined. I guess she figured we have enough stones in our back yard as it is since most of the soil has washed away. Anyhow, he came home with these GIANT hostas!

We guess there are different kinds of hostas, just like there are different kinds of dog.

If you’ve hung in here this long, we have one more thing to show you. Mom wanted an herb pot. She got out the biggest planter she had and filled it with one basil plant and one parsley plant, and they grew like crazy!

Lucy and Xena Schnauzer Warrior Princess

One Word Wednesday

Published on July 15, 2020 by Xena, Lucy and Chia29 Comments

Thanks to Comedy Plus for hosting the Wordless Wednesday Blog Hop!

Aww Monday-Vacation Over

Published on July 13, 2020September 4, 2021 by Xena, Lucy and Chia32 Comments

Thanks to Comedy Plus for hosting Awww Mondays.

Achilles and Ella went home with their dad yesterday. They were so thrilled to see him that they forgot to say goodbye. But we have precious memories of their time here with us.

Achilles is a cuddle bug, and loved time on the couch with Uncle Jeff.

Achilles is fighting severe allergies. He was recently allergy tested and has the sea rum (serum) like Xena. When we could monitor him closely, he didn’t have to wear his hood (cone) or Rambo suit.

When all 80 pound plopped down on you, you felt it. Xena usually stays pretty close to her Mommy, so care had to be taken that he didn’t plop down on top of her when he also wanted to be close. Such a sweet, happy boy. He wiggles all over, and just wants to be loved.

This is Xena greeting Achilles (after she stopped barking at him).

Ella and Achilles also liked the same chair in the living room. Maybe it was because of the “guard” schnauzer on the pillow watching over them.

That’s where Ella slept most nights, with the blanket her mama made her under and over her.

The pictures below show what close friends Ella and Lucy are. It took 1.5 seconds for this wonderful relationship to begin.

Rock City’s Rocktoberfest 2019. We hope Rock City will be open for Rocktoberfest again this year, and are able to do it in a safe way.

Oh, and for those who asked, yes, Achilles did get his time back in the home office after Xena ran him off. He even got his “hood” or cone off for a while.

Achilles found a spot on the corner of Lucy’s bed. She didn’t move over for him, but she didn’t mind sharing, either.

For now we will say adieu, with hopes next time comes sooner rather than later.

Lucy, Xena Schnauzer Warrior Princess and the Mom

Achilles & Ella Vacation Day 8

Published on July 11, 2020July 10, 2020 by Xena, Lucy and Chia19 Comments

Lucy: I came in to kiss you before I go to work. That’s what Mom and Dad always do. But I see you’re in da Hood. I’m going downstairs now. See you tonight, honey.

Achilles: What does she mean, she’s going to work?

Ella: So, this is where Aunt Amy works? She’s home with you all day?

Lucy: Yeppers. And this is where I stay with her all day and help her. Sometimes Mom’s assistant is here with her dog Hank, and sometimes Bridger, her little baby person, comes, too. I like that a lot.

Ella: I think I will stay right here and help Aunt Amy, too, since it doesn’t look like her assistant or Hank or Bridger are coming today.

Lucy: Which reminds me, where’s Morty? I was so excited about you and Achilles being here with me that I forgot all about him.

Ella: I hear that your Mom didn’t feel quite ready to take on caring for him yet. We know a vet who takes care of pigs like Mortimer, so he is boarding him while we are on vacation.

Achilles: Hey y’all. What are you doin’?

Hi Aunt Amy. What’s everyone doin’? Can I do it too? Where’s Miss Brooke? I helped her yesterday when she went in the bathroom. I didn’t want her to be lonely in there all by herself. She sure looked surprised ~~and didn’t get the door shut fast enough~~ and pet me while my head was on her lap. I thought she might need some help today, too.

Xena: Hey! What’s going on here? Why’s everyone in my office?

There’s not room for two of us with cones on down here. You’re gonna knock something over or break something, Achilles. Go over by the fridge and lay down, or go upstairs or something. You’re in my way. I want in Mommy’s lap. I need to sleep there so she can work.

a few minutes later

I thought I was in da Hood [see previous post] with Xena. She sure is fickle…and bossy!