Tuesday, November 22, 2016

What's Wrong With This Picture?

So, what could possibly be wrong with this picture?


Wait! ................ Let me zoom in a bit.


Ok, how about a close up?


Well, it sure appears that Sneaky is actually quite skillful, not to mention shrewd.  

He must be a sharp thinker, because here you see him hanging onto the Snowman Birdfeeder.

You know..............that special bird feeder that is supposed to be squirrel proof, hanging on the swivel arm that is also supposed to be squirrel proof.  At least that is what the packaging said for each.   Apparently Sneaky can't read, or  doesn't know the definition of "squirrel proof".

I knocked on the window....for quite awhile....and finally, Sneaky was spooked enough to jump from the feeder to the railing, where he actually had the nerve to dance a little jig..... while swinging his tail in a full circle.

Jump to the right.


Hop to the left.


Ok, was this guy taunting me?


I waited to see what Sneaky would try next, and he certainly did not disappoint.

He proceeded to climb right up my brand new, squirrel proof, swivel arm.


A quick swing to the squirrel proof snowman


and Wa la!  He was perched and ready to suck those sunflower seeds out.


Ok, now I don't have anything against Sneaky having a snack here and there, but it was obvious to me that he had his sights on far more than a little treat.  

And, it wasn't until  I was walking out the door onto the deck that he realized that I was definitely serous about him moving on.

Now, I've got a lot of things going on here in preparation for Thanksgiving, but I wasn't about to let Sneaky wipe out my Sunflower stash. So, I bundled up against the cold, and managed to stretch a nice shiny silver slinky along the pole from the hook to the base. 


That was yesterday morning, and so far, no sign of sneaky!

Splendid!












Saturday, November 19, 2016

A Doggone Great Day

It's that time of year again, when the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center can be said to be going to the dogs.  Literally.








Yes, it's the annual National Dog Show, and Marty and I were able to find the time to once again make the drive to check out the clientele. Let me introduce you to a few: 

Homer is a French Terrier, and apparently a former Grand Champion.  He was excited to meet me, although he doesn't appear so thrilled in this photo. 


Here are two Pumi's, one of the newest recognized breeds by the AKC.  



This breed comes from Hungary and it appears that my Slovak Shepherd Ancestors may have used Pumis to herd sheep.  We had a lovely talk with their breeder, who actually emigrated from Transylvania and who was very eager to share the history of this smart little dog with us.

And, we learned that they are easy to groom:  simply wash and air dry!

Unlike some other breeds that were being primped and fussed over for the perfect look: 







What some people (or should I say dogs) won't do to look beautiful!

And, it was obvious that dogs from the same breed had different reactions to all of the fuss, as can be seen by these Corgies. 




Some dogs were pensive


others were smiling


while some were just tired of waiting.


As you can see, this Black Russian Terrier looks quite happy to have the grooming process finished!


But it was obvious that some were happy to have been chosen as prize winners.



Don't they look so proud?


Marty made friends with a very cute Russel




This guy actually made it to the show ring.  But, no worries, I won't be giving away any winners.


Just remember to gather your family and look for the broadcast of the National Dog Show that will be broadcast at noon across the country on Thanksgiving Day. 

You'll be in for a special treat.  I guarantee it!!