Five years has blown by, my friend.

My little Kelso passed away five years ago today. Well, actually on the 29th. It's just like her to pass on a day that only comes around once every four years. It may seem a little morbid that I always remember her this day each year, but really to me it feels more like a celebration of the little dog that meant so much to me. Kelso, my little firecracker. A tiny dog with a larger than life personality. Sweet, feisty, matronly, demanding, gentle, fearless, wise, and a little grumpy in her old age. A dog of many contradictions. And absolutely one-of-a-kind.

I bought this print (from this wonderful artist) not too long ago that sits on my desk because it looks just like her. I smile each time I see it and think of my beautiful girl. What a gift she was in my life. If only she knew how she continues to guide me even to this day. Love you Kelso, my wild Shih Tzu of the Klondike.

Henrico Humane Pet Expo

It was a cold, gray day here in Richmond yesterday. What better way to spend it (indoors!) than at the Henrico Humane Pet Expo! We took Banjo and Millie the year before last, and had a great time, so I thought it was time to get back out there and have some good doggy social time. The pups got lots and lots of free treats and tons of compliments on their stylish sweaters, and I scored a fun "All Fun and Games" t-shirt. Though we've been absent of late from local events, we felt right at home returning after almost a year away. We're so grateful for such an awesome community of pet lovers here in RVA!

Channeling Jackie

Always the lady (ok, maybe not always), Miss Mildred is the epitome of beauty and grace (and maybe a little tired of having a camera in her face).

Wordless Wednesday: Don't Judge.

The good thing about being a dog is that no one judges you when you look like this.

Peanut Butter & Pythons

In the time that I’ve kept this blog (3 years now!), I’ve worked in 3 different offices. In one office where I worked ever so briefly, I was lucky enough to have Millie by my side each day. But those days have passed, and full-time, non-contract employment was calling my name. I now spend my days in a new office surrounded by the most wonderful dog-loving colleagues, but the office unfortunately isn’t well-suited for canine co-workers. Which made today that much more special…

You see, today, we had a photo shoot in which we had to bring a prop that said something about us. Well, duh. I knew what I was bringing.

Millie didn’t appreciate being called a prop, but she got over it quickly when she realized she got to hang out with me and be the center of attention of our one-on-one photo shoot. We had so much fun getting our photo taken together professionally. And I came prepared with treats, peanut butter, and of course, her favorite squeaky bunny – all of which came in very handy on set. Many bribes were necessary throughout the course of the shoot (particularly a little peanut butter to encourage some kisses), and there may have been a brief run-in with another "prop" (and we will pretend Millie was not locked in a room alone with a Python; and no, the fact that the Python was in a cage brought me no comfort), but all-in-all, I think both Millie and I had a day to remember.

Can't wait to share the photos from the shoot! Stay tuned.

Millie the Labra-Tzu

At times, I think Millie might simply be a Labrador in a Shih Tzu's body. She loves the great outdoors and is really such a tough little dog.

What this picture doesn't show is the steep, brush-entangled hillside we scaled down before she then jumped the river rocks like a champion. She's so brave, and couldn't care less about muddy paws or rushing water.

Who'd have thought that Millie, the Shih Tzu historically bred for royal laps, would be such a sportsman, and poor Banjo, the "outdoorsy" hound dog, would be the prissy one?