Indoor Games

The first week of 2010 sure is a cold one. We have a little snow, maybe 3 or 4 inches, but it's too cold for the dogs to play outside. Their feet get so cold that they do a little dance and look at me pathetically, wanting me to fix it.

I've had to be inventive and come up with things for them to do inside. I'm lucky they can't talk or I'd be hearing, "Mom, I'm bored."



First, Gaylen, the President of Fudge's Fan Club, has come up with this adorable button for anyone who wants to join. To be a member of his fan club, you must appreciate dogs that have inflated egos and want to be the baddest dog on the block, but who are actually big marshmallows on the inside. Dogs who like to tease the other dogs, but like to climb into Mom's lap if anyone teases him. Fudge was a teenage daddy and he is no more mature than his pups, but he'll tell you that he's a handsome, titled stud dog.

So if you admire all those contradictory traits in one silly brown dog, help yourself to the button and stay tuned for more adventures of Fudge.



Gaylen has been a busy lady on the computer. She thinks it's a good idea to document each week, something that has made us thankful. It can be anything that makes you smile and think good thoughts.


I decided to play along, and this week it's a no-brainer. I am thankful that my girl, Samba, is getting better. There were days when I would look at her and just see a very sick dog, but now I see a strong girl who is improving each day and will do whatever I ask of her. Swallow a handful of pills, sure. Stand in the bathtub with shampoo on her bare legs for ten minutes, whatever you say, Mom. Stand still to put a jacket on before running outside, OK.

How can I not feel thankful for her?


Back to the cold weather. It's a good thing we have lots of big new toys to play with. The living room resembles a jungle with tigers and leopards and monkeys on the floor and in the chairs. Playing ball in the house is not allowed, much to Sky's dismay, but it can get too rough and things get broken.


Today Fudge and Sky decided on a good old fashioned game of tug. These two play nicely together unlike Noah and Fudge.


Sky tries to get an advantage buy getting a hold higher up on the toy.


Fudge keeps a tight grip on the toy.


There's a lot of play growling that goes on during this event.



Some of the other dogs stand around watching this. I wonder if they're rooting for Fudge or for Sky?


Although Sky has changed position several times, never letting go of the toy, Fudge has barely moved.


There is no winner or loser. They just eventually get tired of the game and stop. They're still best
buddies. We all hope the temperatures warm up enough to go outside and enjoy the snow. Mom keeps thinking about the mud to follow.