Oh happy day! I really get pumped up when people come to visit. My grandma and cousins are staying the evening before leaving for vacation in Grove City, Pennsylvania. How exciting! It's time to sprint up and down the halls and parade around with my toys -- all 50 of them!

After watching the Cell Dogs TV show the other night, my Mom decided that it was time to teach me to balance treats on my paws. Needless-to-say, I wasn't thrilled with this idea. At first, I could barely control myself. The treats: so close, yet so far. I could only imagine the tastiness of those tender little morsels. My single-minded, food-motivated Lab brain nearly short circuited! When it comes to Labs and food, it's a Zen thing: we are one!

My foot is back in top-notch shape and I'm itching to go walking with my Dad. I look forward to it everyday. It's also one of the reasons I'm in such good shape. I've had elbow dysplasia since I was a youngster, so walking keeps my joints lubed and limber. I've got my leash, I'm by the door, and I'm ready to go!

I like when Mom and Dad return from trips because they always bring me cool stuff. This time wasn't any different. Hiding in their suitcases were two new stuffed toys -- a pig and a snake -- to add to my collection. I also smelled a knuckle bone in there somewhere, but I haven't found it yet!

Sunday, April 25, 2004While my Mom and Dad walked 10.6 miles in the Big Sur Marathon, I spent time with Mack and his cat, Elvis. It's a strange thing: I like to play with Elvis much more than she likes to play with me. It must be that great divide that exists between dogs and cats. Anyway, the three of us watched the Giants get tromped by the Dodgers, nine zip!.

Today, my Mom and Dad are driving to Monterey to walk in Sunday's Big Sur Marathon. I wish I could go, but I can't. No dogs are allowed. I just don't understand it. I've logged the miles -- matching Mom and Dad stride for stride. And I'm not a youngster either! The bottom line is: rules are rules. I guess I'll just have to dream about being a marathon dog.

Every Friday, I get to hang out with my friend Mack, who cleans our house. I follow him from room to room and watch him as he works. Sometimes I get in the way, but he doesn't seem to mind. What I really like doing is stealing his rags and racing up and down the halls with them in my mouth. It's so much fun! Sometimes Mack watches me when my Mom and Dad leave town. We enjoy playing together and watching reality TV. By the way, I've been thinking, why don't they do a reality TV show about Labs?


Me and Mack

I've been lounging around while my foot is on the mend. No walks for me this week -- doctor's orders. I guess I'll make the best of it and help the Lovealab.com staff fill orders. They'll work; I'll supervise.

I love carrots. I'll do almost anything for one. On Saturday, I hurt my foot doing a cartwheel for one of those pointy orange roots! I was limping this morning, so Dad drove me to the vet. After poking and prodding, my doctor x-rayed my foot. No broken bones. In a week, I should be as good as new.


Injured foot