Sophie Lou

The Guilt Trip

2012-01-26T18:32:00.001-08:00

When Mom leaves for work every morning, I join her while she gets ready. In an attempt to get her to stay home with me, I tried my paw at the guilt trip. That's right! I stuck my head under the bed! So it's not my proudest moment, but desperate times call for desperate measures. Needless to say, it didn't work. Something about 'need to work to buy your food..' sigh...

Healing

2012-01-14T03:02:00.001-08:00

As mentioned in my previous post, my family and I were very sad that our friend Farley passed away. The other day Mom caught me smiling. She thought it might cheer others up, including Farley's family, if she showed my smile.

I'm Too Sad

2012-01-03T03:40:00.000-08:00

I'm too sad talk so I'll let my Mom....

We were shocked and deeply saddened of the news that our dear friend Farley passed away yesterday evening. If you have a moment, please stop by his blog and send some love to his family.

To Farley and his family: we are very much sharing in your sadness. He will always hold a special place with our family. I am almost like Sophie, too sad to talk.

Janelle

Silent Night

2011-12-24T16:05:00.000-08:00

Silent night, holy night, all is calm, all is bright....

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas!

I've Been a Good Girl

2011-12-23T09:20:00.000-08:00

Guess what? Another gift came in the mail for me! I guess my behavior has been exceptional this year!

This gift came from a very handsome Golden named Farley. In the envelope I found treats:

And a snowman headband. I will sit long enough for a picture but don't expect me to keep these things on during my daily routine (sleeping, eating, sleeping, etc).

Thanks so much Farley and family! I just love getting gifts in the mail. I hope your family has a wonderful holiday!

That Time of Year!

2011-12-14T14:57:00.001-08:00

Well, it's that time of year again. Time to put things that belong outdoors, indoors:

Mom has also been talking a lot about Santa Paws. Since I know I've been an angel this year, I believe I will be showered with an abundance of gifts. In the spirit of the season, today I received a package, but it wasnt from Santa. It was from Augie & Ti.

They even included a dashing photo of themselves wishing me a Merry Christmas.

I received a gift that, as a Golden, I feel you can never have too many of:

Thanks for the new stuffie boys! Merry Christmas to you!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T07:50:00.001-08:00

It's that time of year when I reflect on all the things for which I am thankful.

My humans.... (in particular, Dad)

My stuffies and all those who bough them for me

And many other things I have in my life. I am such a fortunate Golden! Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T15:13:00.001-07:00

I would like to take a moment to wish everyoe a Happy Halloween! As you can see, Mom won the battle of me wearing the clown costume she bought 6 years ago.

I think my sober expression shows how I feel about it.... sigh...

Itty Bitty

2011-10-14T18:12:00.001-07:00

The other day Mom put me in my ~~crate~~ jail. This usually means someone special is coming over. I was right! This itty bitty human came to see me. When I held really still, she stuck her arm in and I got a quick lick of her teenie tiny hand. I really think we could be fast friends if Mom would let me out of my cage!

Portfolio

2011-09-29T18:17:00.000-07:00

I've decided to try my paw at modeling. I made Mom take my picture the other day. This is the first head shot I plan to add to my portfolio. What do you think?

Just Being Myself

2011-09-17T15:16:00.000-07:00

Some of you may be wondering what happened to me. Well, I'm still here, being myself. Mom felt guilty about not blogging so I made her play ball in the yard and she snapped a few photos of my beautiful self. I love when my humans feel guilty!

Crisis

2011-09-02T14:00:00.001-07:00

My mom came home with some disturbing news the other day. She said her friend at work rescued a dog in the spring. They quickly fell in love with the pooch but found out later she needed heart worm treatment. Just when they were ready to schedule treatment, they discovered a crisis! There is currently a shortage for the treatment of heart worms. So I am sitting here thinking of what I can do to help Charlee...

Charlee is kinda like me...She knows how to use the sad eyes to get what she wants:

Mom decided to post this so that other canine lovers can be aware that there is a shortage. We will stay on top of this situation and post later what we can do to help other sick puppies. In the meantime, we are waiting and hoping that very soon Charlee will be treated.

Abandonded

2011-08-21T14:08:00.000-07:00

I guess summer is over because I have been abandonded again. Yep, that's right. My mom went back to work. I tried my hardest to get her to stay. Some of you may be wondering what I did to try and convince her that staying home with me is way more fun than teaching kids. Well, I started out very subtle. I gave her my best sad face:

When that didn't work, I left her a note so she would know exactly what I was thinking.

Finally I had to play hard ball. I took her keys and put them in my best hiding spot!

Can you believe she found them? She has been back to work for a week now. I'm very sad and let her know it by following her around when she's home. I hope she gets a day off soon!

Miniature Humans

2011-08-09T15:12:00.000-07:00

The other day these miniature humans came to visit me. There were four of them. I found I like the littlest one the best. I made sure I was never too far away from her. I followed her everywhere and the best part is when she saw me, she would always pet me.

Mom explained to me these miniature humans were my human cousins. They came to stay with us for a couple days. I really think they came to just see me because they seemed to have a great time when I was around. The thing about these miniature humans is they have a lot of energy. When I did everything they did, I ended up getting tired.

Here I am sleeping with my eyes open. It looks like I will need some time to recooperate from their visit.

They're Home!

2011-07-27T06:42:00.001-07:00

My humans are finally home. After SIX days without them, alas they are back. I think there was mutual happiness for seeing each other upon their arrival. Where did they go?

Something about a private beach with their own bartender. Sounds to me like a great place for a Golden...sigh

I even caught a nap with Dad after he came home.

Special thanks to Grandma Debi for taking good care of me all week. I had so much fun with you!

Not Again....

2011-07-17T14:18:00.001-07:00

The other day I was sleeping in the hallway when I peeked in my humans bedroom. I was absolutely appalled at what I saw! That's right! The big red suitcase....again! Mom was putting her things in the suitcase. I was hopeful that maybe she was going away by herself leaving me with my most fun human, Dad.

You can imagine my thorough disappointment when Dad pulled out a suitcase and started packing his things too. I just don't understand why I can't go with them!

I Don't Think So!

2011-07-12T04:30:00.001-07:00

Every now and then Dad wrestles me to the floor and comes at me with clippers. What can I say? I'd rather do my own pedicure.

My Trick!

2011-07-05T05:39:00.000-07:00

Look what I can do...

What tricks can you do?

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-19T06:13:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day to all the fun Golden dads out there. Mine is the best!

Embarrassing Photo Friday

2011-06-17T12:31:00.000-07:00

I guess it's a good thing my bed is close to the ground. Hrrmph!

Summer!

2011-06-12T05:00:00.000-07:00

Well I am finally feeling better, so my humans decided to take me to the Farmer's Market. It is a sure sign that summer is here.

There were all kinds of fresh veggies and flowers.

I think summer is off to a better start. I would also like to take a minute and with my two boyfriends, Augie and Ti, a HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Those handsome fellas are surely celebrating this weekend. Their mom throws the best birthday parties.

Bad Start

2011-06-07T07:23:00.000-07:00

Well, I've really had a rough start to the summer. First, I was grounded then punished with a bath. Shortly after my bath, I broke out in bumps all over my face. Those bumps itched a LOT and I just couldn't help myself. Yesterday morning I woke up and Mom said I looked like a Pit Bull (whatever that is). My face was very swollen and inflammed.A trip to the Vet, two shots and a bottle of pills later, I was diagnosed with hot spots. You can see my face is a little swollen. Dad was trying to keep me from scratching. I really hope my summer starts getting better soon....hrrmph!

My Sentence

2011-06-03T18:49:00.001-07:00

As you may remember in my last blog, I was grounded for visiting my neighbors. You may be asking, what was your punishment? Well....

Yep! That's right! Not only did my humans ground me, but they told me I smelled so I had to get a bath. I just couldn't believe it! Hopefully my luck will change soon.

Grounded!

2011-05-23T04:44:00.000-07:00

Well, it's not something I'm proud of, but yes, I'm grounded. I feel as though this is a little extreme. Mom said I couldn't have my stuffies or toys and then she put me in jail. Many of you are probably wondering what I did to land me in such an unjust situation...

Well, yesterday was a nice day outside. I thought it would be fun to go visit the neighbors and spread some of my Golden charm. Of course, the neighbors loved me. Pretty soon I see Mom (the first time, and Dad the second) charging across our yard yelling, "Get over here." Next thing I knew, I was in jail.

I hope I get to come out soon. Mom has 3 more days til summer break. I think we could have a lot of fun.

The Countdown

2011-05-16T04:47:00.001-07:00

It's that time of year again. My mom has 8 more school days til I get to spend every day with her. I expect we will hike, take walks and she will shower me with affection all day long. I can't wait!
Clearly my mom needs a break...excuse my feet :( Perhaps when summer gets here, she will keep me better groomed.

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-06T14:33:00.001-07:00

Wishing all the Golden Moms a great Mother's Day!

Vacation Without Me

2011-05-01T18:35:00.000-07:00

My humans took vacations without me. I stayed at home with Grandma Debi. Grandma Debi spoils me and I'm very lucky she comes to stay. If she didn't stay, I'd be left at the kennel all by myself.
Here are a couple photos of my humans on their vacations. They are good parents and I'm glad they got some time away.

Dad mountain biking in Utah
Mom hiking in New Mexico

Even though I gave them the cold shoulder after they returned from their trips, I'm glad to have them home. Because of the guilt they felt for leaving me, I scored some extra treats over the past week!

I'm Still Here!

2011-04-20T14:35:00.000-07:00

It has been a busy few weeks with my humans. Mom just finished her River to River race. This is where her and a team of 7 other runners run from the Mississippi to the Ohio River (80 mi). Plus they are both getting ready to leave me. Dad is going to Utah to mountain bike and Mom is going to New Mexico for what she calls, "R&R". That means I will be here with Grandma Debi. I really love my Grandma Debi but still get a little nervous that my humans have left me for good.

I will try and keep in touch a little better after my humans come back from their trips.

It's My Mom's Fault

2011-04-07T05:15:00.000-07:00

I borrowed that subject line from my other boyfriend, Farley. I am blaming Mom for my absence in blogland. It's been nearly 2 weeks! Not only that, I have received more birthday gifts but you wouldn't know it because Mom hasn't blogged. I may be advertising for new humans soon. Until then, check out my belated birthday gift from Farley:

It's a new stuffie. I always get so excited when I get a new stuffie.

"I love you pink monkey"

Thank you Farley for the new stuffie. I just love it!

More Birthday

2011-03-26T11:26:00.001-07:00

When you are a Golden loved as much as me, your birthday can spread over a few weeks. I was so excited to receive a birthday gift from my human Aunt Tina. She knows how much I love babies so......

What else was in the box?

A chewy toy bone and a treat.

Thanks Aunt Tina! You know just what I like.

My Birthday

2011-03-23T06:47:00.000-07:00

The day was just perfect! My humans celebrated my birthday by taking me hiking.

Sniffing the cool breeze...

Exploring the trails

Taking a dip

Then we came home and the real celebrating began.

First, with ice cream....

Then with gifts from my boyfriends, Augie and Ti. Thanks for the beautiful card and my new stuffies! I really love the yellow chick. It's my new favorite.

And my new outfit (leash & collar) from my humans.

Oh how thankful I am to have such nice friends and a wonderful family!

Note from Sophie's Mom: Sophie has received more birthday gifts. I will be blogging about those soon!

Happy Birthday To Me!

2011-03-18T17:26:00.000-07:00

It's here! It's here! My special day has finally come!

On March 19, six years ago, I was born. This is a picture of me at last years birthday. I can't wait to see what Mom and Dad have planned for my special day!

The Good 'Ol Days

2011-03-15T17:59:00.000-07:00

Mom decided to take a walk down memory lane. This is me when I was a pup. That would be yogurt on my snoot. Can't you just see the mischief in my eyes?

My Favorite Month

2011-03-06T06:06:00.000-08:00

Many people like the month of March because the weather is getting warmer, days are getting longer, birds are chirping, etc. Although I love March because of the first signs of spring, there is another reason I love March....It's my BIRTHDAY! That's right! March 19, I'll be 6 years old. I think Mom ordered my birthday gift this morning. Of course she wouldn't tell me what it was. (sigh)
So until my birthday, I'll just be here hanging out, waiting on my special day!

Sweet & Innocent

2011-02-21T04:46:00.000-08:00

I've decided to post this picture as a lesson on how to use the brown eyes.

1. Keep your head low. It's best if it's resting (as seen in picture).
2. Look up just slightly to raise the eyebrows.
3. Putting 1 or both front paws right next to your face. They act as a frame for your look.
4. Keep your ears perked.
5. Stay focused on your subject.

Results? Melting your humans heart and likely getting away with anything!

Slacker!

2011-02-17T17:24:00.001-08:00

The other day a package arrived for me. To be specific, Monday a package arrived for me. I know, I am just as shocked as you that Mom hasn't blogged sooner especially since this package was a Valentine from my other boyfriend, Farley.

Taking a peek

Not only a gift, but a love note!
I think I smell cologne. Ahh! Such a romantic!

Oh a new stuffie. I love him already!

Thanks for the Valentine Farley (and Farley's humans). I apologize on Mom's behalf for her blogging negligence.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T08:07:00.001-08:00

This is an old picture of me but Mom still likes to use it to embarrass me.

Valentine's Day has brought me gifts from afar. Check it out:

My boyfriends Augie and Ti send me some cookies. They always know just what I like. Thanks boys!

I hope everyone has a love filled day!

Race Day

2011-02-12T15:30:00.001-08:00

Today was race day for Mom. I got to cheer her on with Dad. I think I could have been used as encouragement at the end because I am such a good runner. Instead, Dad kept me close at his side with a leash. (sigh)
Here's a picture of Mom (white sunglasses) at the starting line.
And here she is finishing....

All in all, the course proved to be difficult. Five miles of it was trail and with the recent snow, it was slick, muddy and snowy. That said, she didn't get her goal time but I think she looked great finishing.

13.1 miles in 2:28.

Good job Mom!

Me and Mom

2011-02-05T16:03:00.000-08:00

Dad was gone this weekend to a bike race in Georgia. That left me spending quality time with Mom. What did we do? Well..... my favorite holiday is quickly approaching. Since I have several boyfriends, I figured I needed to make some gifts. They always say the way to a Golden's heart is through his stomach. So we decided to bake. Mom found a new dog biscuit recipe online so we decided to try it. She wanted me to tell you that the dough is very thick and you need a good stand mixer, like this:

I decided on these shapes for my cookies.

Admiring my work....

I really enjoyed the cookies. I hope my Valentines do too!

More Snow!

2011-01-25T17:05:00.001-08:00

My humans took me hiking the other day after a gentle snow. Here are our pictures:

This is me, checking to make sure my humans were still behind me. I always lead the way on the trail.

This is me and Dad. I think he has me in a near choke hold position, but he sees it as giving a hug.

Mom is more gentle with her choke hold, but don't be fooled. Anytime I tried to bolt, she tightened her grip.

And one last photo of me I personally find rather embarrassing. Clearly I was in the middle of a zoomie and the camera snapped leaving me without front paws. I need a new photographer!

The Ice Cream Man

2011-01-18T18:35:00.000-08:00

Every other Tuesday a man comes to our door selling ice cream and other frozen treats. After enduring 2 years of seeing my humans indulging in these delicacies, I decided it was time to order something for myself.

First, I browsed the catalog to find something perfect for me.

Lo and Behold! Look what I found! Beef flavored ice cream just for me. I pointed it out so the ice cream man would know just what I wanted.

And this is what I got... Beef Flavored Doggie Sundaes

Of course, I had to rely on Mom to help me with the packaging.

How sweet it is! Thanks ice cream man! I will be browsing the catalog preparing for your next visit.

One Month Report

2011-01-11T17:55:00.000-08:00

I would like to update you on Mom's half-marathon training. She is exactly one month away from running her first half-marathon.

I am supportive by looking cute and keeping her shoes warm (above) before she heads out for a cold run. All in all, training is going well. She just completed her first 12 mile run the other day. I decided to cheer her on from my new bed (see previous post).

Happy New Year!

2011-01-04T18:26:00.000-08:00

I'd like to take a moment and wish my friends a Happy New Year! I hope the new year brings you lots of stuffies, snuggles and treats.

What's new at my house? Well, my humans have finally decided to buy another piece of furniture for the family room. I gotta say...it's PERFECT! Let me explain why.

First of all, it is the same color as me. So Mom won't get so bent out of shape when she finds my beautiful golden locks on the upholstry because she won't be able to see them!

The other reason it's perfect is because me and my favorite human can both take a nap on it. Thanks Mom and Dad! It's a great way to start a new year.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-26T06:25:00.000-08:00

You can't believe what I got for Christmas.... I mean, those Santa lessons must have really worked. Only a really, really good pup receives a gift like this!

But it's not a present that you can wrap....

Look at what I got!!!! SNOW!

Mom said that we haven't had a white Christmas in 6 years. Since I'm 5, that means I've never seen a white Christmas. Oh the fun I will have with this snow!

Thanks for the white Christmas Santa Paws! It was the perfect fit.

And check out all these other gifts I got from my family! Thanks Mom & Dad, Grandma Janet, Grandma Debi, Aunt Tina and Aunt Tammy. These will keep me very busy.

It Worked!

2010-12-22T14:15:00.000-08:00

All my lessons and good behavior worked! Well, kind of. I received an early Christmas gift from two of my boyfriends, Augie and Ti. What did I get?

Taking a peek...

A new stuffie that's a raccoon. He fits perfectly in my mouth!

This new stuffie makes me smile! Thanks a lot boys.

Final Santa Lesson

2010-12-19T18:29:00.000-08:00

The final lesson I can offer in good behavior to ensure Santa Paws visiting your house is here!

Final Lesson

Help with cooking

We hope you have found these lessons informative and helpful. What's the next step in this Santa Paws process?

Wait patiently.....

I really hope Santa Paws visits all my canine pals. I think our unconditional love, alone is worthy of countless stuffies, treats and squeakies. Good luck friends!

Santa Lessons #4

2010-12-17T03:35:00.000-08:00

Here we go with another way to ensure Santa coming to your house...

Lesson #4

Help with the laundry.

It is important to collect laundry for your humans. Specifically, socks...in particular Mom's fuzzy socks.

Santa Lessons #3

2010-12-14T17:21:00.000-08:00

Back to Santa lessons. In my previous post, I felt as though a non-lesson is just as important as a lesson. Back to what you SHOULD do...I hope you find this helpful.

Lesson #3

Help with the dishes.

Non-Santa Lesson

2010-12-12T14:23:00.000-08:00

So I know I've been showing you how to be good to ensure Santa Paws coming to your house. Well, today I couldn't help myself and what I did might have just put me on the naughty list.

You see, it started when Dad was watering the Christmas tree.... I saw the water and thought, "Wow, that looks great!" ...Well, I think you'll see the rest for yourself.

Non-Santa Lesson

What can I say? I was thirsty.

Santa Lessons #2

2010-12-10T14:13:00.000-08:00

Forging on with the lesson to ensure Santa Paws visiting your house and giving you countless treats, stuffies, etc.

Lesson #2

Lay only on YOUR designated piece of furniture. Lucky for me, it's a Lazyboy recliner.

Santa Lessons #1

2010-12-08T18:20:00.000-08:00

Over the next couple of weeks, I will be posting ways to ensure Santa Paws coming to your house. Most Goldens think their big brown eyes will get them anything. That is mostly true, however, that only works on your humans. Santa Paws is a pretty smart fella. He KNOWS everything.

So, here we go with lesson #1:

Snuggle your humans!

Preparing

2010-11-28T13:39:00.000-08:00

Well, Mom and I have been busy preparing for Santa Paws this weekend. I supervised her sorting decorations, finding the perfect tree and decorating the house. At one point, however, she actually asked me to untangle some lights.

This was as far as I got....

Reunited!

2010-11-20T15:33:00.001-08:00

The other day Dad was looking for his favorite stocking hat. I was helping (of course) and look what I found....
The baby I had when I was a kid. Mom tried to find pictures of me and this baby when I was little, but something about technology and a lot of grumbling. Anyway, I promise, this baby was always in my crate to keep me company.

Clearly I was a little irresponsible with my babies when I was a kid. I have learned a lot since then.

Mom has decided since I'm more responsible, I can have this baby for good.

Welcome back long lost friend!

My New Friend

2010-11-14T13:52:00.000-08:00

This is my new friend Meiko. Meiko came to play the other day because his humans were out of town. We played with toys, sniffed, chased, etc.
We even had a staring contest....

Overall, Meiko and I had a fun play date. I hope she can come back soon!

"Dogs love company. They place it first in their short list of needs." J.R. Ackerley

Mom's Challenge

2010-11-11T09:31:00.001-08:00

This is me sleeping because Mom's new challenge for herself is exhausting me. She has decided to start training for her first half-marathon in February. She explained her training schedule to me and I just fell asleep.
How does this affect my life? It's scary folks...I may be roped into running with Mom. (sigh)

One Lucky Girl

2010-11-04T17:46:00.000-07:00

Clearly I am loved! My other boyfriend Farley sent me a gift today. Just out of the blue. A "Thinking of You" gift. That makes two packages from my boyfriends in one week. Ahh! Isn't love grand?!

What did I get??? Some treats and a wonderful new toy that is like a baby and a tennis ball all in one. This is perfect. When I want to snuggle, I can. However, if I feel frisky, I can roughhouse.

I was so excited about my new toy/baby that I didn't even let Mom take it out of the package.

This is my sultry pose....Think Farley will like it?

Thank you Farley! I love my presents.

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T16:24:00.000-07:00

I was just getting ready to pack up my stuffies again because Mom hasn't blogged in so long, when she said, "Sophie you have a present from your boyfriends." This caused a distraction delaying my packing.

Some of you may know I have many boyfriends, but my first two boyfriends were Augie and Ti. They like to spoil me with gifts. Even though my humans have forgotten about me lately (absence of blogs), Augie and Ti didn't.

What did these two handsome fellows send me?

A new baby!!!! This is a big one. I'll have to get a bigger piece of luggage to fit this one when I threaten my humans next time.

Oh how I love him so!

He smells good and makes a silly honking noise when I play with him.

Thanks Augie and Ti! You really know how to treat a lady. Happy Halloween to everyone!

Take a Hint

2010-10-13T17:43:00.000-07:00

Clearly my humans are not grasping my subtle hint, "I want more cheese".....sigh

Fire Safety Month

2010-10-05T18:36:00.001-07:00

It is fire safety month. At 1:30 am this morning, we were reminded to check the batteries in our fire detectors. The high-pitched beep made me pace the floors and eventually wake up Mom and Dad to tell them what was wrong. Dad came into the family room and took down the fire detector for me to check out.

First I had to assess the situation. This required me to disassemble the equipment. I get my mechanical skills from Dad.

Eureka! I found the problem. We just need a new battery. This is a win, win situation for me. Not only did I solve the problem which granted me unconditional affection, but needing a new battery will likely result in me taking a ride in Dad's truck. Perfect!

I hope everyone considers this blog a helpful reminder.

Maybe There's Hope

2010-09-26T11:04:00.000-07:00

Clearly I was upset with my humans in my last blog. Things could be turning around. Maybe it was packing up all my stuffies? Or maybe it is because all the home improvement projects are finished. Either way, I have been spending more time with my humans doing fun stuff.

Here's a run down on all the home improvement projects I have been helping with. If you remember, pouring concrete was the first of this extensive project. Then Mom and I had to landscape. Here I am showing off my hard work.

After landscaping they put a big bathtub outside. I think my humans have lost their minds. They just sit in this big thing. I really want to join them. Usually my brown eyes get me what I want, so I just sit there and stare at them hoping they'll invite me. They never do...sigh

Needless to say, because these projects are complete, I think I will get more time with my humans. I have yet to unpack my stuffies though. You never know when I may have to threaten them again.

Wanted: New Humans

2010-09-19T12:43:00.000-07:00

That's it! I'm looking for new humans. My bag is packed, please inquire if you are interested in taking on a loveable, beauty such as me.
Some of you may be wondering why I'm looking for new humans. Here are the following reasons:
1. They went camping WITHOUT me Friday night. That has never happened.
2. I STILL haven't gotten a ride in Mom's new car.
3. Have you seen how long it's been since my last blog entry?
4. When our friends come over with their newborn, I have to stay in my crate.

....I could continue, but I think I've made my point. Inquire with any questions.

Hiking Adventure

2010-09-08T18:01:00.000-07:00

I was surprised today when my humans took me hiking. It's Wednesday! This kind of stuff only happens on the weekend. I wasn't going to question them. Here I am loaded in my favorite vehicle known as the "T-R-U-C-K".
There are many good things to sniff on the trail. Notice I am on a leash here. My humans are always reluctant to let me roam free in public places.

Which way to I go?

I'm finally off the leash and exploring the trail all by myself!

Embarrassing Photo Friday

2010-09-03T02:54:00.001-07:00

I personally think Mom should quit with the embarrassing photos. Perhaps some NORMAL pictures of me will be posted soon.

Happy Birthday Mom!

2010-08-30T04:53:00.000-07:00

Today is my mom's Birthday. This is my favorite picture of the two of us.

I promise to be on my best behavior as a birthday gift to you!

Embarrassing Photo Friday

2010-08-26T19:14:00.001-07:00

What can I say? I got bored posing for Mom.....

Flowers & Cars

2010-08-21T15:39:00.000-07:00

Mom decided to take my portrait in front of her red flowers. She said it's rare that they look this good, so she thought a portrait of me would bring out my pretty brown eyes.

Other exciting news....Mom got a new car. This is me smiling because I can't wait to have a ride. I love how leather feels on my belly.

Note from Sophie's Mom: Sophie will NOT be riding in my car.

It's Finally Done!

2010-08-18T14:18:00.000-07:00

Our big sidewalk project is finally done. You can tell by my expression in this picture that I am thoroughly exhausted. The project turned out well, and went relatively smoothly (except for running out of concrete mid-pour...OOPS).
Now on to some sad news: My mom has went back to work. I should be used to this by now. I've lived with my humans for 5 years. Every year in August mom leaves for the day and returns just in time to feed me supper. Gone are the days when I can bring a toy to Mom during the day and she plays with me. Sigh......

Innocent Until Proven Guilty

2010-08-08T18:07:00.001-07:00

Mom found this in our sidewalk project this morning. She IMMEDIATELY came to look for me. I was chillin in the garage when she decided to blame me for stepping in the mud.
At first, I played very cool like I had no idea what she and Dad were talking about.

Then I decided to at least smile for the camera. Mom always says my big, brown eyes can get me out of any potential trouble.

I surrender! The jig is up! Guilty as charged. Mom was right. I love mud and the way it feels when it squishes though my toes.

Don't worry, I didn't get in any major trouble. Just a dip in my baby pool. I look at it as a way for Mom to have something to blog about!

Happy Birthday Dad!

2010-07-30T05:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my favorite human...DAD!!!! I really like this picture of me and him because, as you can tell, we are getting ready to camp.

Have a great day Dad! You're the best!

Wake Up!!

2010-07-28T19:21:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, life, at times, can be a little boring as a Golden. My days typically go something like this:

7am-10am: Sleep in laundry room

10am-3pm: Sleep by the front door

3pm-3:10pm: Stretch

3:10-5:00: Sleep again

5-9: Follow my favorite human (Dad) around the house

Now that you know my daily routine, you can understand my thorough disappointment when Dad tried to take a nap during the 5-9 slot. Can you even believe that?!? I have proof:

At first, I didn't think it was fair, so I tried waking him up.Then I decided that I could spend time with Dad doing what I'm good at.

Just Sayin' "Hi!"

2010-07-27T05:04:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to stop in and say "Hi." Not much is new with me. I'm still helping Dad with the sidewalk project. It's been so hot here that, slow and steady is the pace. I hope everyone is enjoying their summer!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-21T06:30:00.000-07:00

One of My Favorite Parts of Summer

2010-07-16T19:36:00.000-07:00

Enjoy my first video with music...

A Project

2010-07-15T06:31:00.001-07:00

We have another project at our house. Mom has put Dad to work and of course, I help. Something about a sidewalk around the house to the deck. The first step is to remove a lot of dirt in preparation for concrete forms.
Loose dirt makes me VERY happy. I felt like it was the appropriate time for a quick set of zoomies.

Look at all the dirt I help dig.

Towards the end of the day I figured it best to just be the foreman. "That's right Dad, rake, then scoop."

My Love, Yogurt

2010-07-07T18:42:00.000-07:00

Dad felt really bad the other day after subjecting me to very cold water and bubbles all over my body (the humans way of bathing), so he let me have a treat. I love any food, but get especially excited about yogurt! Consider this your guide to eating yogurt.

Step 1: Study your subject

Step 2: Dig in carefully cradling the yogurt container with either of your front paws. Don't get discouraged. This isn't as easy as it looks.

Step 3: Need I say more?
Caution: Yogurt containers could puncture easily trapping your canine tooth!

Still Here

2010-07-05T16:14:00.001-07:00

Yes, I'm still here. Just hangin out, waiting for my humans to do something fun with me....sigh

I Love This Thing!

2010-06-24T04:43:00.000-07:00

Mom and Dad have this thing in the kitchen. I'm not sure what it is, but when I'm real hot from being outside I park my body right in front of it and it cools me down. Sometimes it moves too. To show my appreciation for what this thing does, last night Mom saw me licking it. That's just my way of giving it kisses. Here's a tribute to this mystery that lives in my kitchen!

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-20T16:21:00.000-07:00

Some of you may not know, but I am a huge Daddy's girl. Wherever he goes, I try to follow. I am his constant shadow. Don't worry, this has it's benefits! When I decided to follow him to his truck yesterday, we ended up going swimming. Yea! First we raced to the water:

Then Dad and I had swimming races. This is why I love my Dad. He's always so fun!

Happy Father's Day to my dad and all the other Golden Dads!

My Pool

2010-06-13T18:21:00.000-07:00

Mom and Dad put out this huge drinking bowl. Well, at least that's what I thought it was. When Dad encouraged me to get in, I was skeptical. This is me checking things out. See how balanced I am as I drink on only 3 legs?
After a little coaxing, Dad got me in the pool. I have to admit on a 90+ degree day, it felt pretty good.

And of course, every wet dog has to shake.

I hope the rest of my Golden friends have swimming pools. They are a great way to cool off!

Furmination

2010-06-07T13:46:00.000-07:00

Sometimes my humans use this yellow blade/brush looking thing and run it all over my body. It feels SOOO good! They always say I look a pound or two thinner after they are finished. Here's me enjoying Dad using that yellow thing.

Frustrated!

2010-06-02T20:08:00.000-07:00

Many of you may be wondering why I've been M.I.A. lately. Well, I had a nice L-O-N-G chat with Mom today and told her that she's going to have to start blogging more. I mean, everyone wants to know what is going on in the life of Sophie Lou right?!?

For those of you wondering.... Last week was Mom's first week of summer vacation. I helped her plant some flowers.

Mom and I have been doing lots of fun stuff but she doesn't seem to follow me around with the camera near as much as I think she should. Clearly, she doesn't understand how interesting sniffing foreign objects in the yard and stealing socks is. Sheesh!

No News

2010-05-25T11:04:00.001-07:00

This is me looking over Dad's shoulder to see if he's posting something on my blog. I guess not because my humans haven't been following me around with the camera like they normally do. Perhaps now that Mom is on summer break there will be more footage?

An Award

2010-05-21T05:56:00.000-07:00

I was given an award by Macy. If you haven't checked out Macy's blog, you should. She's just a kid but she's already got a good thing going. I must say, she is really cute!
This award asks that I share 7 things about myself. Here it goes....

1. Dad is my favorite human
2. I hate baths
3. I love socks and collect them daily
4. My favorite game is called, "Hiding Tennis Ball Under the Couch and Getting Mom and Dad to Help"
5. My favorite human food is peanut butter
6. My special talent is using my brown eyes to get anything I want
7. I have food allergies and hypothyroidism

A Lesson

2010-05-16T19:03:00.000-07:00

For those of you interested in hiking but are unsure of the terrain, please use this video as a guide on how to climb rocks. I've hiked with my dad many times, so this may look easy. Don't be discouraged, however it may just take some practice. I hope you find this helpful!

The Countdown

2010-05-14T17:33:00.000-07:00

My mom is a teacher. I'm very much anticipating our exciting summer together.

My Favorite Game (while stuck in the house)

2010-05-11T19:30:00.001-07:00

When I get bored, I play my favorite game. All you need is a tennis ball, a couch and Mom or Dad. Watch the video to see how to play: (Yes, this is my first video)

Mother's Day

2010-05-08T04:39:00.000-07:00

I'm very glad to have a mom that loves me. Happy Mother's day to my mom and and the other Golden moms out there.

Paw It Forward

2010-05-05T17:43:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm going to have to complain more often about not getting packages in the mail! I got a HUGE package today from Wrigley. It seems Mom told Wrigley I would like to participate in Paw It Forward. This means we will be sending goodies to the first three people who want to participate. These three people will pass it along to three more people, and so on. Enough with the boring stuff..... Look at what I got!!!!!
Checking out the goodies

What should I play with first?

Me, VERY happy with all my goodies. You can't believe all the great things Wrigley sent me!

Thanks a lot Wrigley! You really know how to Paw It Forward. Please post your email address stating you would like to participate in Paw It Forward and we will send some goodies your way!

Something Special

2010-05-02T19:59:00.001-07:00

The other day I became very excited when I heard Mom and Dad talking about a special package coming in the mail. Knowing how much they love me, I thought, "Oh wow! More goodies." Here I am investigating the package. Look how HUGE it is! Can you imagine how many toys and treats could fit in this package?!?
You can imagine MY disappointment when I discoverd the package was NOT for me, but for Mom instead.

Yes, Mom got a new road bike. She seems pretty excited about it. I personally don't see the big deal especially since I can't participate (sigh).

Ahhhhh!

2010-04-27T18:14:00.000-07:00

The other day my mom went to the store and came back with long fingernails. It was amazing. She left the house and they were short. She came back home and voila, they grew!
As you can tell, I just love Mom's new fingernails. Here I am having my armpit scratched.

And here, a nice shoulder rub.

Ahhhh! I think all the dog moms should grow fingernails as quickly as my mom did!

I Won! I Won!

2010-04-25T08:12:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, Sugar was having a drawing on her website. I was THRILLED when she announced me to be one of the four winners. Can you believe it? I've never won anything. What did I win, you ask? The adorable flowered collar. Very girlish, don't you think?
Here I am in my new attire. Some may think I'm ignoring Mom, but I'm just practicing my natural modeling instincts so you can have a better view.

Thank you Sugar! We LOVE our new collar.

Helping

2010-04-18T17:09:00.001-07:00

As many of you know, a Golden's work is never done. Here I am installing hardware on the kitchen cabinets. I'm showing Dad what to do:
When I felt like he had it under control I relaxed. Some call it 'sleeping on the job.' I like to think of it as being a silent partner.

Mom was happy with my work. I ended up getting lots of scratches and even some cookies. Another Golden job well done!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-14T04:47:00.001-07:00

Embarrassing Photo Friday

2010-04-09T04:39:00.000-07:00

Here I am doing zoomies. Not very nice of Dad to snap a photo when I'm focused on having so much fun... Oh, not to mention Mom laughing hysterically at me.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-07T04:18:00.001-07:00

Happy Easter!

2010-04-03T05:50:00.001-07:00

I know these eggs are here somewhere....
Happy Easter everyone! Hope you are having beautiful weather like me.

Camping

2010-04-02T06:49:00.000-07:00

My humans decided to FINALLY take me camping the other day. I'm not sure why they always prolong these camping expeditions. I do all the work. Here's how it goes...
First, I set up the tent.

Then, I tell Dad where I want my bed. I usually specify between him and Mom.

Then I have to pose for photos, of yet, another camping adventure. Me and Dad.

Me and Mom

I can finally be a dog and chew on a stick. Although this camping trip looks really fun...I almost got kicked out of the tent for the follwing reasons:

1. Slapping Mom in the face with my paw while she was in a deep sleep about 3 am

2. Licking Dad's pillow at about 3:30 am
3. Trying to push Dad out of the tent while I was "stretching."

4. Licking Dad's face while he was trying to sleep.

5. Standing on Dad's chest

6. Barreling into the side of the tent while trying to make my bed.

7. Sharing Mom's pillow and panting in her face

8. Sitting between my humans staring at them.

I think while I was sleeping on the way home this morning, I heard Mom say, "Never again" but I'm not sure what she was talking about. I thought we had a great time!

Note from Sophie's Mom:

We only got 3 hours of sleep. Sophie was VERY excited to camp. So excited, she woke up first thing in the morning to spontaneous zoomies around the campsite about knocking down the tent. It may be a while before we camp again. :(

Yahoo! More Birthday!

2010-03-28T13:39:00.000-07:00

My cousins sent me a package for my birthday. That's right! I guess being so loveable and cute has it's perks. Me sniffing the package while I'm looking at Mom thinking, "Are you kidding me? You expect me to open this myself?"
She FINALLY stepped in to help, but let me tell ya, talk about slow! I was watching her every move to try and speed her up.

Yea!!! A new baby! This one is pink and has lots of yarn that will be fun to chew on.

I immediately ran away with my baby.

Here I am thinking, "Oh she is just perfect!"

Thank you canine cousin Buster, human counsins Jacob and Justin and Aunt Tina and Uncle Shane. I just love my new baby!

An Award, For Me!

2010-03-27T00:58:00.000-07:00

Mom said that I received an award.

She said I had to tell her 10 things that I loved to do.

(In no particular order)

Ride in Dad's truck

Walking with Mom and Dad

Hiking with Mom and Dad

Camping with Mom and Dad

Meeting new people

Playing with canine friends

Belly scratches

Ear scratches

Shaking hands

Blogging

I was given this award by Sugar. Thanks Sugar!

Meet Jonas

2010-03-21T15:56:00.001-07:00

This little pip squeak is my new cousin. He is a Yorki-Poo named Jonas. I haven't officially met him yet, but he reminds me of one of my stuffies. Either way, I think he's pretty cute and we'll be fast friends.