Having Fun While Working

(photo credit: T. Spiker)

Extended Family

This here is Klaus and Sabrina of the Vogel family. And two of Janka's most favourite playmates.

Nothing gives her more joy than to visit these dogs and spend an afternoon of tumbling, chasing, snapping, barking, rolling and wrestling with wild puppy abandon. She recognizes the landmarks as we approach the Vogels' residence, and begins a pathetic incessant whine that starts about 10 minutes away from our destination. The moment each pup sees each other, it is instant pandemonium. They jump right into play without hesitation, like a pair of twins continuing a conversation that ended the last time they talked. No polite "Hello, how do you do?" between Janka and Klaus, they go right to business.

Klaus is Janka's littermate. We met him and his owner the day we picked up Janka. Since then, the two families have become good friends. While I am unsure whether Janka realizes that Klaus is her brother, both German Shepherds have developed a deep bond.

Despite sharing a strong genetic denomination, both puppies are as different as night and day, from coloration to personality. It is fun to compare the differences, and yet mutually agree that one individual complements the other perfectly. They are my little Ying and Yang.

I enjoy watching their interactions, and am eager to observe these two beautiful German Shepherds mature alongside each other. It will be a beautiful adventure, and I am thrilled to be able to share it with her brother.

Outdoor Adventurer

Three's a charm! I figure I would post photos of all three kids today. Here is Janka @ 12 months old on a hike today. She looks so grown up!

The Proctologist

Yes, I have a very talented cat.

He is a special boy, this shy little creature whom we found languishing at the animal shelter with quiet dignity. I am glad that nobody took the time and patience to find out what a remarkable little scamp Kennedy is, so we are able to discover this tarnished diamond in the rough.

But it does reflect how generic America is, that desperate need for instant gratification, acceptance and love. It takes time and effort to acquire the best treasures, which are intangible and elusive. However, the current mode in America is to be lazy and egotistical.

So let Kennedy stand for what is admired for and lost here. And if you have no idea what that means, I recommend that you strip your person bare and look within yourself to seek the truth.

Softly Candid

Bryan and Shalom spend some quality time together on a quiet evening. I love the mutual affection and friendship they have for each other, the poignancy of non-verbal displays breaking through the inter-species and language barrier.