My poor Cocoa. All of a sudden, Chip is growing. Notice his little blue lead in this photo. Sandy (Dog School 101) suggested that he wear it so he can be grabbed quickly whenever he decides to go after the cat. This little caper (above) landed him in his “den” for a few minutes of time out (below). He has a lot of “heart and guts” for a puppy his size.

Cocoa quickly reminds Chip that she is “lead dog.”

His first real burst of puppy frustration landed him in the “doggy poky” for a little “time out”. So, when it comes to winning the princess’s heart, it’s back to the drawing board!

This is such a special time for me as I watch my Mom and Dad grow older together. Recently, I had the opportunity to run a couple of errands with them and then to treat them to a surprise visit to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. They have always had a beautiful yard! My Dad was the one who taught me how to cut grass, and my Mom is still trying to teach me how to grow roses and day lilies. It is hard for me to believe that they are in their eighties!

Prince Chipley grabs the dragon’s tail after slaying the beast with vim and vigor in hopes of winning the fair princess’s heart.

But even after he explained how he had risked his own life in order to protect and save hers, the princess seemed utterly unimpressed.

What can a baby Cocker Spaniel do? “I just have to win the fair Princess’s heart,” sighed Chipley as he drifted off to sleep.

This time of the year is beautiful in Atlanta. The dogwoods are beginning to bloom, too. In a couple of weeks we’ll be driving home with cars covered in greem pollen. Absolutely, can’t wait!

We still have this nonverbal thing going on, but at least the fair princess is willing to lie down beside me. One heart-to-heart moment at a time. . . . I can do that! —Signed Chipley the baby Cocker Spaniel.

“No Matter how little money and how few possessions, you own, having a dog makes you rich.”
-Louis Sabin