UGD Louie

Happy Birthday to ME!!!!

2005-09-08T20:21:00.000-04:00

Yes, the I-Litter is 1 year old today.

Here I am celebrating the big day with Skye. Mom gave us each a really big cookie after supper. She usually gives us a little piece at a time.

The other picture is the day we all got to go home with our raisers.

Baseball buddy

2005-08-28T22:24:00.000-04:00

This is me and my new friend. I met him at the ball stadium. He has the craziest coat, made entirely out of baseball mitts.

Baseball Anyone?

2005-08-28T21:52:00.000-04:00

This afternoon Mom took me to see the Rochester Red Wings with Artie and and Grandparents. It was a beautiful sunny afternoon and our seats were in the shade.

As soon as we got there, I knew it was going to be a great place (of course, I was there two weeks ago in the pouring rain), but there near the entrance was another black lab in a blue coat. It turns out that Guiding Eyes was having an outing there. At first, I just pulled and wiggled and absolutely wanted to go and play. Mom gave me several corrections and took me to our seats. After a little while of sitting and watching the crowd, it was time to go off for a walk. Since I had gotten the message to behave in a crowd and walk just slightly ahead of Mom, she decided to venture right on over to the table that Guiding Eyes had set up and buy a raffle ticket. (Sorry to say that we were not winners). After we walked away from the half dozen other pups that were there, I got one of the biggest hugs ever. Guess I did what I was supposed to - yeah for me.

We walked past several other dogs and I was really on my best behavior and when we were done with the walk, I got a drink of water. We went back to our seats and watched some of the game. Had great seats on the first base line.

Half way through the game it was time to go out for another excursion. As usual (not too proud of myself), I was great. No tugging on my leash at all. We went to a counter that smelled out of this world. Mom asked for these nachos with chili on top. Yummy!!!! We were walking back to our seats when someone bumped into the back of her. You got it, that dish went tumbling all over the place. Down her top and shorts and all over me. On my head, on my back (all over my nice clean jacket) and all over the floor. Of course, all that food was just too much for me and guess what the first thing I grabbed -- a slice of jalapeno pepper. Spit, spit, spit!!! How can anyone eat those hot little suckers!!!! Then I grabbed a little piece of chili -- that was better and then I was told "down" and down I went. Some nice guy came over with a broom and helped clean up and then took Mom back over the got her another plate of nachos. Everyone who worked there was very nice.

Unfortunately the team lost by 2 points, but it was a fun afternoon.

Grasshoppers Anyone??

2005-08-22T00:31:00.000-04:00

Today I got to taste a grasshopper (literally). It was early in the morning and I had just gone out to "be quick" (my command to go potty) and on the way back into the house, I saw this thing and decided to grab it. I got back inside the house and the thing started to move around in my mouth and it was more than uncomfortable - let me tell you!! Mom takes a look at the expression on my face and tells me to drop it. She was pretty surprized when I didn't drop it (because I am really good at that command) and tells me again. I don't know how to tell her that I would like nothing better than to get this miserable thing out of my mouth, but it is hanging on.

Finally, Mom comes over and opens my mouth and grabs the little sucker which then grabs ahold of her fingers and doesn't want to let go. She lets out a scream and shakes it loose from herself. Then she can't find it, and guess what -- she tells me to "get it". RIGHT!!!! Finally she spots it on the kitchen floor and grabs a napkin and squishes it and tosses it into the garbage. No more grasshoppers and that is a promise.

Let's Play Ball

2005-08-15T01:32:00.000-04:00

Sounds like a lot of fun to me. For all you dogs out there who love to play ball, this is not what you think. Today we headed out to watch the Red Wings Minor League play baseball. We went with Grandpa and Grandma and brother Artie. If you were in Rochester, you know it was a pretty wet day (Mom says it has been raining since she finally washed her car on Friday). So we get to this place and wander around (and does this place smell great!!!). We sit down in our seats outside (did I mention it was raining) and put up our umbrellas and Mom spread a rain slicker over me so I wouldn't get too wet. Some guy that I couldn't see with a huge voice that everyone could hear tells everyone that it is raining (boy, is he bright) and that we will have to wait for another hour for the game to start.

With that we headed for cover and found all these tables near a food court. Some guy near us spilled a big carton of pop corn all over the floor. I would have loved to have charged right over there, but I really wanted to show off, so I stood my ground. However, I did manage to drool a bit looking at it. A few people would come over and ask if they could pet me and Mom would explain how I needed to act and then ask me to be good and stay and let them pet me. That is always such a fun part of each outing.

Finally the hour of waiting was over and the guy with the big voice starts talking again and tells us that the rain isn't going to stop and we can all go home.

We didn't exactly go straight home, Grandpa thought a stop at Pineapple Jack's would be a good idea for cocktails. Sounds like fun to me; anything with a tail must be fun. Did you ever try chasing one???

Grad Party

2005-08-15T01:26:00.000-04:00

I have been to a few grad parties this summer, but the one last Sunday was with family. It was for both Ellen and Mom's cousin's son, Matthew (follow that). All the aunts, uncles, grandparents and cousins were there along with some friends. I was very well behaved and had a great time. We had brought my kong along and I had fun with different kids playing with it.

Did I say Boring??

2005-08-15T01:02:00.000-04:00

Last Friday I had a great work day. Mom and Ellen decided to do a little bonding since it is getting closer and closer to Ellen heading off for college. Their little excursion meant some real work time for me and I really love that.

First we went to a couple of computer stores and did some shopping for the new dorm computer. While they talked with the sales people, I was told to sit-stay. To tell you the truth, I got pretty bored and really wanted to lay down (all that jibberish about ram and bytes and memory); but no-o-o-o. Since I was told to sit, sit was apparently what was expected, and each time I layed down, I would get gently tugged back into a sit.

Fortunately for lazy me, the next activity was to go to a restaurant, Uno Pizza for dinner. It is one of those chain places, but Mom had never been to one before ( that woman needs to get out more). The place smelled a little like heaven should smell - yummy in my tummy.

We ended the outing with a movie, "The Longest Yard". I got to eat my dinner in the parking lot of the movie theatre before going in. I think that was to curb my appetite -- there was so much popcorn that was just tempting me. After the movie was over, I got to experience the "rest room" and that was quite the experience. If you have never been to one before, Mom and I were quite crowded into this little space with a toilet (I think you might guess why we were there). I wanted to check out the neighbors, but no-o-o, wasn't allowed that fun!

That was the end of a fun-filled evening -- hope we do it again soon.

Boring Week for Me

2005-08-04T18:37:00.000-04:00

This has been one of my more quiet weeks. With it being so-o-o hot, we have not done too much at all. The only thing that I can think of that has been a change is at work. I have discovered that if I take a few steps out of the office door, I can actually see out the big front door onto the parking lot. What a view!!! The unfortunate part is that Mom wants me to stay in the office, so we are into this power struggle thing. I am working on it, but so far she wins the battles.

Carnival Night

2005-07-29T23:09:00.000-04:00

Tonight I got to experience a real life carnival. If you have never been to one before, it is a totally different experience from anything else. We drove into town, nothing unusual there and parked our car at our friend Ron's house. Then we got to walk through town, which we have done lots of times before, but for some reason there was a ton of traffic; and more motorcycles than I could imagine. I was beginning to feel very excited, but Mom just petted me on the head, pulled my collar up a little tighter and told me, OK, steady.

We got to the bottom of the hill and crossed the street and there it was. Lights everywhere, people in all shapes, sizes and ages everywhere. And the smells, hot dogs, burgers, fries, candy apples, cotton candy, sausages, and one of my favorites, pop corn. We walked all around and you never heard so much noise. There were rides of all sorts with kids just yelling and screaming like they were getting hurt, but they were really having fun. Booth after booth with these game things that had lights flashing and whistles, bells and you name it. There was even one game at my height that looked real interesting. It was this big tub of water that went round in a circle, with these little rubber ducks floating around and around. Mom wasn't sure if I wanted to grab a duck or get a drink, but she knew I liked the looks of it.

Then we went to this area that is called "The Zoo". I am not sure why they let me in, since you have to be over 21, I must look old for my age. There was an area called the beer tent with no tent, but lots of people. Then there was a tent set up in another section of the "The Zoo" where there was a live band. That was way cool with some great top-tapping going on. It was very dark, so Mom made me sit right smack in front of her so no one would step on my tail. I really wanted to lay down because it was amazing just how much food was on the ground, but she wouldn't let me.

We listened until the band took a break and then went out to the main area; Mom got some food which she didn't share as usual. Then we wandered around some more and finally headed home. I really had a good time tonight and glad we got to go. Mom says it is not one of her favorite activities, but the food is OK, it supports the fire department and it was a great training opportunity for me.

A Night at the Canal

2005-07-17T22:34:00.000-04:00

Tonight was a very hot night. Actually, it has been a very hot week. Kathy (from the office) has been on vacation, so Mom had to work every day this week. Since the temperature was over 90 every day, I only went to the office on Monday and Tuesday. After that, I stayed home in the air conditioning. It was cool, but very boring.

So tonight, Mom said let's go out on the town. At least over to Spencerport for a concert on the canal. Mom was thoughtful enough to bring a blanket for me. It was a real experience -- I had to hang out and watch the bicycles ride by and lots of people (some even carrying food) and I really was well behaved. These two little girls were enamored with me and kept coming over and petting me. I really liked them and vice versa.

When the show was over, there was a yellow lab who was just about my age who walked by me. Mom thinks she may have been in training too, because her Mom was also carrying what looked like a blue coat. We both wanted to play with one another and we both proved to be a real challenge. Mom had to hold real tight to my leash, but guess what -- she said that was real good practice, so I think we will get to go again.

Some Wednesday, she wants to take me to Lake Ontario to an outdoor concert. That will be great, because we will get to ride on a shuttle bus to get there and I have never done that.

Stay tuned.

One Handsome Fella

2005-07-17T22:21:00.000-04:00

Here is the latest and greatest picture of yours truly. I am standing in our front yard near the vegetable and flower gardens. I have really done a great job of learning the boundaries of gardens. For the longest time I was not allowed anywhere near them without a leash; but I have done such a good job of learning, that I don't need my leash -- but only in my yard. I still wear one if I go visit somewhere else.

One secret I must confess to. A couple of mornings ago, Mom went out to collect some lettuce and she found a small green pepper on the ground, right next to the plant I had picked it from. I gave it a small taste and it really didn't appeal to me. I tried to put it back on the plant, but it just wouldn't stick, so I left it on the ground. Mom gave me the evil eye when she found it, but the only thing she said was, "you just wait until you bite into the habaneros or the hot chilis. Not sure what that means.

Got a little lost

2005-07-17T21:50:00.000-04:00

Well, what can I say. I have heard from 3 people recently that they actually read this blog and missed it. We have been a little busy, but that is only an excuse. For one week, Mom's computer was broken and in the shop - so I think that is a legitimate excuse. That was a pretty good week. Mom took some vacation time since she had no computer to use and we got to do quite a bit of training.

We went to the Mall, I really don't like those escaltors. Who ever thought up the idea of stairs that just keep moving up and down and around and around. And we young pups just have to worry so much about getting our toes caught.

We also went grocery shopping and while at home we baked cookies and cleaned and worked in the garden. It was just a good week. And Mom said the best part was not having a computer and worrying about checking her email and whatever.

So anyway, I am back. I will do a couple of posts right now and then promise to post at least once a week for those who watch. Besides, as Julie says, this is a great journal that I can take along with me to my graduation.

Memorial Day

2005-06-02T09:52:00.000-04:00

Memorial Day is a very special day that we celebrate to pay tribute to the men and women who have given their lives so that we may embrace the freedoms that we have in this country. We had a very busy day!

It started early in the morning when we went to Spencerport to watch the Village annual parade. Grandpa Jack (a WWII veteran) was in that parade and we got to wave to him as he went by. He was like a celebrity. For the most part, I was pretty well behaved. I got to watch a marching band, fire trucks and lots of people march in front of me. Then we followed the parade up a big hill to where a memorial service was held and they even fired off of volley of gunshots and that didn't bother me at all. The only major distraction was all the other dogs that were there, and there was alot. I really wanted to go and run and jump with them, but Mom held firm to my leash (and a short leash at that). She called me a brat, but she still gave me cookies to keep me focused on her.

Later in the day, Upstate Guide Dog was invited to march in a parade in the Town of Greece. It was a larger parade and they even had horses that marched. I didn't really pay too much attention to them, I was much more excited to see the other UGDA puppies that were there. We did get to play together for a little bit, but then we all had our jackets put on and walked along the parade route. It was exciting to have so many people wave to us as we went by. Mom was pleased that I wasn't pulling very hard, but what did she expect -- with all the walking she made me do so far today, I had no energy left to pull. My only thought was finding a nice bowl of puppy treats under some shade tree.

Over the Bridge

2005-05-26T11:54:00.000-04:00

Well, now that I have "recovered" from my boring week, Mom and her friend Jean have decided to power walk once a week during lunch. They started yesterday and what a delightful walk we had. Up and down sidewalks, through a cemetery and even over the canal. It was the very first time that I walked over water like that, but I did really good. Mom thinks it was due to the fact that another dog was close by barking at us and that I was totally distracted by that -- but I still went across with no hesitation. I can't wait until next week so see where we wander off to.

Long Boring Week

2005-05-26T11:47:00.000-04:00

Last week, my brother Icon and myself went to the doctor's to have our x-rays done and to be neutered. We passed the x-ray part with flying colors (that is one of the major obstacles to become a guide dog). The neuter part was a piece of cake with the exception of not being able to play for a week. It all had to do with "glueing" the incision instead of using staples and/or stitches. I felt perfect otherwise, but EVERY time I tried to play, I was told down and stay. It has been the most boring week of my life.

Kiwi's overnight

2005-05-13T22:15:00.000-04:00

We stopped at the office on the way home from the Lion's outing to wish Fr. Jerry a Happy Birthday -- we hope you have many more special days.

To finish off a wonderful day, Kiwi got dropped off for a visit. Her family is heading off for a dance competition out of town. Good luck girls, hope you come home with happy feet!!!!

It was fun seeing Kiwi. All three of us got to play and then we had some training. We had to do our down/stays in the kitchen for awhile. Every once in a while, we would be told to "stand", "stay" and then one of us would get called to "come". Whoever got called, got put on a leash and then we would walk around while the other two would work on "stay". It was very hard, Kiwi and I wanted to play, but after about 20 minutes of hard work, we all got tons hugs.

We will try and get a couple of pictures tomorrow.

2005-05-13T22:09:00.000-04:00

Here are the Lions that we met today. They are the daughter and son-in-law of the man that Gabe and I are named after, Louis Gabe - isn't that a wonderful, strong name. They seemed to be such super, nice people.

Morning with Kelly

2005-05-13T21:46:00.000-04:00

Today we got an early start. Ellen got up extra early because the band is going to Quebec this weekend. She is really looking forward to this trip.

This is the day that we are going to meet the Lion's. But we started the day heading over to see Karen and Kelly. The Moms' are going to do some computer work. Mom really enjoyed getting the opportunity to find out just a little bit of how Karen's voice program works. Mom helped put some voice labels to some picture icons, apparently it is all very fascinating.

I found Kelly to be fascinating. We spent more than an hour romping around in the back yard. Kelly had her own big stick and I showed her how we can both hold it in our mouths and run around in circles. It was so much fun.

When we get done here, we head out for the Convention Center.

The Lions are Coming

2005-05-06T16:58:00.000-04:00

As you may or may not know, sometimes we guide dog pups-in-training have a sponsor. I am lucky enough to be one of those pups. I am sponsored by the Green Lawn Lion's Club (I think they are somewhere near New York City). The Lion's are going to have a big convention here in Rochester, NY next week and I am going to get to meet some of the Lions from Green Lawn. This will be so exciting -- I am really going to practice my butt wiggle since everyone loves to see me do that. Mom says I should concentrate more on not having to lick everyone who pets me.

DMV

2005-05-06T16:49:00.000-04:00

Well, it has been rather quiet since we got back. Mom has spent literally hours at her computer trying to catch up on all her work. What does that mean for me? Spending literally hours laying around near her desk (since the fire she is working more at home) so I don't even have visitors like in the Church office.

But, I did get a new adventure the other day. The whole point of the Colorado trip (partly to see Tra and Mike before they moved to Hawaii), but to get the car and bring it back east. It is hard to squeeze a car into a travel bag. Since the next plan is to sell the car, the plates had to be turned into the Department of Motor Vehicles and that was my newest experience.

Mom told me that since it was early in the month, it was going to be busy. We got there and the first thing was we had to stand in a line of about 10 people. I did really great and acted just the way I was supposed to. After we got done talking with a lady at the desk, we had to walk over to one of many chairs and sit and wait. I spotted a couple of kids and wanted to go over to them and I gave a pull to let my wishes be known, but I got a jerk on my leash and we went elsewhere. Fortunately for me, she decided to sit in the front row, so I really got to watch all the people coming and going and there were a lot!! Suddenly, I was given the command to stand and let's go, and it was off to see yet another person at another counter. And then we were out of there. Seemed pretty easy to me and I got a really big hug out in the car. That's when I know I did good!!!!

2005-04-28T21:30:00.000-04:00

Here I am at 7 months old. I must admit that I am growing up to be quite the distinguished young man.

We're B-A-A-C-C-K-K

2005-04-28T21:13:00.000-04:00

Wow! What a week. Mom has been a real travelling fool and I got to go and stay with some other puppy raisers and had a great time. Mom first went to Georgia with Grandma and Grandpa for her cousin's wedding. I went over to stay with Cindy on the east side of town in a condominium. That was so cool, there were lots of neighbors and so many different things to see out the front door and windows. Not like out in the country where we live. And Cindy had so many great toys for me to play with and I got to adopt a new grandmother while I was there. Cindy's Mom came one day and took me out and I just loved both of them. I hope I can go visit again.

Well, Mom came and picked my up on Sunday evening, and then she and Ellen flew out on Monday afternoon to visit Tra' in Colorado. Kiwi's Mom came and picked me up every day so I wouldn't have to spend all my time in a crate. She is just the best. Click here to check out my activities during that week. You will have to scroll down to April 18th or so, but it will be worth it coz there are great pics.

Fire at the Office

2005-04-05T21:18:00.000-04:00

Wow! There was a fire in the office where I go to work. It happened last Saturday evening and Anne-Marie discovered it first and called 9-1-1 and escaped unharmed. By the grace of God, a small miracle occurred where the heat got so hot that it melted the solder on a water pipe and the flowing water then put the fire out. The volunteer fire fighters said it was truly a miracle and commented on just how much damage we were spared. Click here for some pictures and updates

Mom was put in charge on Monday and we sure were busy. We had to show the building to the insurance adjuster, the clean-up company, electrician and plumber. Of course, they didn't come at the same time, so I had a lot of practice of walking across the street (we have set up a temporary office in the rectory), going into a very smelly building and walking around (up and down stairs) with no electricity. One stairway that I have used before, was really dark and I wasn't really sure I wanted to go down them, but Mom slipped her hand under my collar and gave me a re-assuring feel and I did OK.

However, working over in the rectory proved to be very challenging. Fr. Dennis has two cats that live there. I have met them in the past, but I would really like to chase them around. And even more challenging, they have bowls of cat food on the floor outside the kitchen. During lunch, all the staff was sitting around the dining room table and I just bolted. I almost got there, but Rosie, the housekeeper grabbed me and before I knew what happened, Mom was dragging me back into my spot. Needless to say, she was not a happy camper. Then, to even rub it in even further, one of those sassy cats walked in and sash-sayed right in front of me. But, I proved my stuff one more time and behaved. Everyone at the table laughed and commented that cat was proving to be a real distraction.

Play Date

2005-04-01T19:33:00.000-05:00

Mom and I were on vacation for a couple of days at the beginning of the week. We took a ride to Ithaca (noted for gorges) and had a great visit. When we went to lunch with our great friend Irv, I got to do some city work with more traffic than I am normally used to. A little stressful.

I had a boring day on Tuesday, spent alot of time in my crate.

Wednesday, it was back to the office for another boring day. But then, Kiwi's mom stopped in and invited me to their home for some real fun. Check it out here. We might get to do this again. YEAH!!!

Bug Patrol

2005-03-29T15:12:00.000-05:00

I have learned a new trick!! How to catch flies. The other day, this fly was buzzing around the kitchen and Mom was going crazy with the fly catcher, swinging and swatting away. It looked like a lot of fun and Skye and I started to jump around with her. I really had no idea exactly what we were doing, Skye even had a toy in her mouth (what else is new). Mom started telling Skye to drop the toy and grab it!! Suddenly Skye batted this little thing with her nose and it hit the floor. Mom gets all excited and says "Get it" and so I GOT IT!! It was tickling the inside of my mouth, but I was pretty sure I wasn't suppose to let go of it and after a minute I swallowed it. Wow!! I was the hero -- and what a surprise -- we all got cookies for a reward. YEAH!!

2005-03-06T20:24:00.000-05:00

This is my UPS buddy - Gary. I really like his hat and he says it would be fun if he could find one my size so he wouldn't have to hold it on my head. By the way, this is the office where I spend alot of time.

2005-03-06T20:21:00.000-05:00

What a cool looking toy -- that the only purpose I could find for it. Mom really gets into plants and this is one she has had for a few years and it still keeps on blooming.

Super Star

2005-03-06T20:15:00.000-05:00

We have become famous! Check out this article.

Anyone miss me!!

2005-03-06T20:00:00.000-05:00

I have been a busy pup, so I apologize that I have not been around. We have gone to the movies a couple of times and saw "Finding Neverland" which was a very good flick. Ellen says the Johnny Depp is one of her favorites. Mom & I also went to see "Million Dollar Baby" -- apparently Clint Eastwood is a "to die for" in Mom's world. As for me, I am becoming a pro at hanging out at the theatre, even though I find it boring and usually fall asleep.

We have also gone out to an All District Band concert at the high school. Boy, that was interesting!! We usually go into this performance hall, but since this "All District", we went into the gymnasium. There were kids all over the place on the floor and the families all got to sit up in the bleachers. We stayed down on the floor level, and sat right in front of the Senior Chorus. We didn't know it, but one of their songs required them to jump up and down and also do this rythymn hitting thing (tapping their legs, shoulders, heads, hands, etc.) I jumped a little at first, but then settled right down.

Mom was a little sad, she says it will be the last "All District" that any of her kids will ever perform in.

After the show, we had to walk through a really big crowd. I was a little nervous and pulled harder than I should, but Mom get touching my head letting me know it was OK!

Very Exciting News

2005-02-06T17:04:00.000-05:00

Mom and Skye went out cross country skiing. The one time I went, my feet got a little sore, so now I get to stay in. Guess I will use the time to catch up on the best news.

At my graduation, one of our car-pool friends finally got their puppy -- Kiwi!!!! She went into her own class for little puppies (along with the J-pups) and then just slept all the way home. Boring!! But check out her link above and see how cute she is!!!

First Level Graduation

2005-02-06T11:50:00.000-05:00

The I-Puppies have done it!!! Yeah for us.

You may ask about the "I-Puppy" - yes, I am an I-puppy. All my litter mates are Ivy, I-Con, Igby and I am I-Louie. You see, I am the special puppy since I am being sponsored by a Lion's Club and they picked out my very special name.

Anyway, at Obedience Class last Friday, we all got tested for our first level of training and we all passed with flying colors. We had to demonstrate that we could do a sit-stay for 2 minutes, a down-stay for 4 mins and and stand-stay for 2 mins. This is at the same time as all the dogs in the program were doing the same thing and no one had a leash on or a handler standing nearby. Then we had to do a sit-stay on leash next to our handler and let someone come up and shake hands with them and then give us a friendly pet on the head. I got pretty wiggly for that part, but still passed.

Now we will start working on distraction training -- not sure what that means, but I will be learning real soon.

Grocery Store

2005-02-06T11:46:00.000-05:00

This is a day that we worked on how to walk nicely next to a grocery cart and practicing a sit-stay while the cereals were being picked out and put into the cart. I did good at not getting my feet too close to the wheels of the cart.

Escalator Training Picture

2005-02-06T11:43:00.000-05:00

This was a puppy outing we went on. They had the escalator turned off so we could get used to it. I did a good job of following the bigger dogs after they turned it back on.

Pre-School

2005-01-27T21:40:00.000-05:00

Last year, long before my time, Mom and Skye went to visit a Preschool. Well, they got invited back and Mom suggested that they wait until after my arrival. They made plans and we got to go.

I was such a star. Of course, when we first arrived I was quite excited and all the kids laughed so hard when I did my famous little "wiggle walk". I can't really help it, I just get so excited that my head starts to shake and then that shake just travels all the way to my butt. When you have long legs like me, that swaying butt just gets to shaking and the whole thing just makes me wiggle.

The first thing I was told to do was a sit-stay. Mrs. D. (the teacher) asked us alot of interesting questions about what my job will be and how to act around me. After a little bit, the kids stared getting wiggley, so Mom and I did a little demonstration of what I have been learning. The kids all oohed and ahhed when I walked next to Mom, halted, sat. Then she took off my leash and walked away from me (just like we practiced), waited, turned and called me. Of course, I wanted to show off, so I went right over to her and guess what -- that little butt just got to shaking when I saw how happy she was.

Then I had to go over and lay down with Skye and Mom sat down on the floor with us and soon all the kids were sitting and/or standing around us petting and touching. Even the kids who seemed afraid wanted to touch us. It was great!!!!

The grand finale of the visit was to walk down to their classroom and we got to see all the paw-prints that we up on their wall. They sold them for $.25 each to help raise money for Upstate Guide Dog. We all thought that was so special and really appreciate it.

Hockey Game

2005-01-21T17:00:00.000-05:00

I almost forgot to tell you all. It just seems like there was so-o-o much going on last weekend. El, Mom and I went to a high school hockey game. When we first got there, I was just not too sure I wanted to go in. It was cold and a very different kind of noise - I just could not explain it. Ellen just kept telling me that it was OK and her smile let me know that she was really telling me the truth. We walked around for a little bit and then had to climb into this contraption called a bleacher.

And guess what!! There was Mrs. M. She is the mom of one of the kids who play for the team. You see, when I was only about 8 weeks old, El took me a game and Mrs. M. was at that game too and she just loved holding me. She said I was still small enough to hold and that is just what she did. (I think she likes to because I keep her nice and warm.)

There was this cool little 5 year old (he played hockey earlier) and he was pacing the rink -- watching the game. Mrs. M. convinced him that his mittens had special puppy magnets in them because every time he walked by, the tip of my nose would follow him. It must have been true, because wherever his mittens were, so was my nose. I thought I was just watching whatever he did, but you know, it did seem my my nose just followed those mittens, so maybe....

Anyway -- the game was very exciting too. Jay (his brother is the mitten guy) is the goalie. He made a really good defensive play and this guy from the other team came up to him after the ref blew the wistle and just slammed into Jay and slashed at him with his stick. Jay just let him have it!! Ellen couldn't believe it, says Jay never loses his cool.

Then.. in the last minutes of the game -- there was a huge brawl. Everyone on the ice except the goalies was punching and swinging and rolling on the ice. The parents were all yelling for everyone to stop and the refs were not too sure what to do. They were pretty young and just not experienced enough (or dumb enough) to hop into the middle of it. I think the parents yelling got them to stop and then the game ended.

They said that was a very first. Not sure I was glad to be there, but it sure was pretty exciting.

Then we went and waited for friends in this big room with vending machines. There were folks coming in for open skate and hockey players and fans going out. I was afraid that I might get stepped on, but everyone was careful of me.

Church Day

2005-01-16T21:21:00.000-05:00

Well, I finally got to go to Church. Mom and Ellen go every Sunday and I always get left home. Mom was pretty nervous, kept telling me that this was a big day. Well, I am not sure what the big deal was, I actually found it to be pretty boring. I had to lay on the floor with long benches all around me. It was really hard to see anything.

As I said, I got so bored that I started rolling around on my back. I found these racks holding some books and thought maybe I could lick them. No way -- after several times of trying that, I actually got the tip of my nose slightly butted.

Then I noticed this lady sitting behind me. Turns out her name is Peggy and she is real nice. Well, after watching her for awhile, I decided to jump up and say hello. No way -- couldn't do that either. I got yanked right back down and told "off". I know what that means.

Only one thing left to do. Wiggle. I did quite of bit of wiggling, but even that got old. The best part was I got my head petted alot. My ears even got some rubbing and I really like that.

Then it was all over. Some different people came over to where we were sitting to get introduced to the new kid -- who? -- oh yeah - that would be me. Everyone said how good I was and Mom said she thought I had been a little challenging. I think it was Peggy who said "oh no. He was really good - he never even barked once." Mom was laughing about that in the car saying she didn't realize that barking was such an important criteria, but I guess if you think about it, that would be up on the list.

Then Grandma treated Mom and Ellen to breakfast. I really like going to restaurants, they smell so good and everyone tells me how cute I am.

Escalator Training

2005-01-16T18:29:00.000-05:00

Saturday was a busy day. Upstate had one of the monthly outings. We have some friends who are waiting for a pup. They rode with us to the event and have an excellent description of the day. My brother Icon also rode with us -- it was such a fun time!!

2005-01-09T20:57:00.000-05:00

Christmas Morning!!! This is me sitting among some of the gifts. It was a fun day. Got some new toys to play with.

Banking Day

2005-01-08T21:41:00.000-05:00

Before I tell you about the bank, I need to back up a little. As I have mentioned, I spend alot of time hanging out in an office. We have our own personal UPS Driver (Gary). He really likes me alot and usually brings me snacks. If he is not in a hurry, me tells me to sit before he hands one to me.

Now to the bank. Mom and I went to the bank the other day, and like usual, everybody was pretty impressed with how well behaved I was. I sat pretty good while Mom stood at a counter and even watched a couple of people walk right by me. All of a sudden the bank door opened up and who was standing right there about 10 feet away, Gary! Only it wasn't Gary at all, but the brown uniform sure was familiar. Anyway, Mom was not too happy with me because I just started to jump around acting like a real Mexican jumping bean. Who wouldn't if they thought they were getting a cookie.

Well, Mr. UPS man never did give me a cookie and then when the bank girl wanted to give me one, Mom thought maybe it would be best to pass. Darn... and everyone knows that bank tellers usually have dog biscuits.

2005-01-08T21:40:00.000-05:00

Here are the girls that live on the block. The ones I told you leave the poop-sicle treats. That orange thing in the background is not a ball, but it is one of the pumpkins that they love to peck on

Poop-sicles

2004-12-23T20:58:00.000-05:00

Wow!! Mom took Skye and I out to visit the girls in the neighborhood. They serve frozen poop-sicles at their place and what a treat!!! Skye says that sometimes after Mom cleans their house, we might find some in the compost. It was a very short visit, just long enough to change the water tray and leave some fresh food. I sure can't wait to visit them again...

2004-12-23T20:24:00.000-05:00

Peeking out from under the sofa. Actually, this is a couple of weeks old, I can no longer fit under anything like this any more.

Vacation Time

2004-12-18T16:39:00.000-05:00

Wow - what a week we have had. I was told on Monday morning that we were officially on vacation for a week. YEAH!! Oh yeah, what's a vacation?? Time of rest and relaxtion! Not!!!

I must say, for the most part is was pretty good. First, I want you to know that my regular week consists of sleeping on a floor next to a desk (one of two offices). When I pretty much feel like it, I can get up and chew on one of my toys (the file cabinets and the chairs are off limits). But this week, it was time for me to work, work, work.

Tuesday, we got into the car and drove around. Then we would stop, get out, practice my stand-stay while I got my jacket put on. Then we would walk into a store, up and down the isles. What a tough event that is. I see all these little kids so excited to play with me. I keep forgetting that I am not allowed to lunge at them, but I get those gentle reminders. Then we would stand in a line sometimes practicing my sit-stays and other times practicing my stand-stays. I like to turn around to see who is behind me, but every time, I feel that hand on my belly and before you know what happened, I am standing straight forward again. Then it is back into the car, drive around and repeat the process.

Well, after the 5th time, enough was enough. We had to stand in a fairly long line, and I just curled up into a little ball and took one of those power naps. Back into the car, drove around and she says she has a great treat for me. Well, when she opened the car door, I could see we were not home -- and that would have been the only treat for me. I put the brakes on and refused to budge from that car. But still being a light-weight, she just picked me up and set me on the ground. Stand - stay, yeah - yeah - put that jacket back on. But, hey! We ended up going to the movies and got to see "National Treasure". Well, I got to sleep for a couple of hours. Heard later that it was a pretty good flick.

Later in the week, Mom and I went to the Mall with Grandma. There were alot of people there to distract me. I wasn't too bad, I only had to poop once, but apparantly, I do this little spin thing which gives everyone around the heads-up that there is a bottoms-down coming. We managed to scoot out the exit in time.

We also met up with Grandpa and went to a real nice restaurant for lunch. I was very well behaved, it wasn't too much different than lunch at the office, only alot more oohs and aahs.

Friday was a blast. Our friend Kelly came over with her Mom and other friends. We got some cool play time. Mostly we had to practice our down stays. If we got up, Skye and Kelly would get out of control and really run around the house. I would join in and with the three of us, it sounded like the roof was coming down.

Wow! that was a lot of writing to catch up. Guess I will go nap for awhile. We are doing some sort of tree thing when my sister gets home from work. Later....

He Flies Through the Air

2004-12-03T16:37:00.000-05:00

Skye just taught me something pretty cool. How to leap off the steps!!! It is so much fun!!! We eat our dinner in the laundry room and we have to walk down these three wide steps to get there. Meal time is just about the only time I get to run without my leash on. Well, I noticed that Skye just sorts of takes all 3 steps at one time. Yesterday, I gave it a whirl and WOW -- what fun!

Mom laughed so hard. She said "All you pups just love those steps. Molson apparently did this slide thing up to the steps and then this hop down and Oakley is still the champ at actually leaping. I liked leaping too."

Since I am learning my special job, this apparently will be the only leaping I will get to do. Usually when we get to stairs, the command is "easy" and I am getting to be pretty good at walking up and down the stairs. I get lots of compliments.

2004-11-26T12:22:00.000-05:00

This is my new sister Syke, chewing on one of her toys next to the garden

Happy Turkey Day

2004-11-26T11:15:00.000-05:00

Wow - what a neat tradition I discovered yesterday. The whole day started differently when Mom spent the morning in the kitchen cooking instead of drinking her tea and reading the paper. When she finally got around to her tea time, we spent it in the living room with Skye (my other sister) and I working on our down stays while watching this parade on the TV.

After a while, the whole house started to smell lick-smacking good - like I have never experienced before. After the parade was over, I was in my crate taking a nap, and Mom took off for awhile. When she came back home, she had a great surprize -- she brought home friends. Not just a friend for herself to hang out with, but a friend for Skye and myself to jump around with -- Kelly. She is a real-life working dog, but we got to spend alot of time "off-duty". Every once in a while, Mom would shout out "OK, enough of that already, everyone needs to settle down". And down we would all go. It was pretty cool to watch three labs under the age of four behaving themselves. However, I did get to watch Skye do this pretty cool stretch thing while still laying down, she could get almost half-way across the kitchen, but Mom would not give her a break; always pulling her back into place. But after a while, she would say "OK" and we would all get up and start pulling and grabbing at the new ring and Kong we got the other day.

Later on lots more humans showed up and they sat around eating and laughing -- it was alot of fun. I hope that everyone has this much fun sharing and caring at their homes. Happy Thanksgiving to one and all. Mom says that everyone should remember to be thankful for what God has given them.

School Band Concert

2004-11-26T11:02:00.000-05:00

Another new event. We got to go to a school band concert where my sister plays the piano. Well, she plays the piano other places, actually she plays alot. Mom says that it is the highlight of many of her days, and I have to agree.

Anyway, since the school is getting a major make-over, they held the performance in the gym. Not the best place to hear great music, but it was pretty good for distraction training. We got to sit on the bleechers with some kids sitting right next to us. Needless to say, I got alot of petting, so much that I nodded right off to sleep. Suddenly the brass section blew those horns and I jumped a mile. Everyone sitting near me giggled and pointed at me. Hey, didn't you ever see someone jump a mile when they got startled.

The show was great, I recommend it to everyone. Go out and support your high school arts.

Rain Water

2004-11-20T16:12:00.000-05:00

I made a new discovery in the last couple of days. Rain water!!! How cool is that stuff. I really love to drink water and this rain stuff is just laying on the ground waiting for me to lap it up. The first day it rained, I stepped onto the deck to out to potty and there is was. I got right to it - lick, lick, lick. Finally I remembered I had to pee, ran down the steps; and holy cow, there was more drops than I could imagine laying around everywhere. I had so much fun spinning in circles just hanging my tongue out and sucking in that water. YUM!!!

This past week has been alot of fun. I went to the office for three days with Mom. I got to meet alot of new friends who stop in to say hello. Most people come into the room and say "Hey, you got a new one!" I looked around trying to figure out a new one what; but then everyone seems to forget about that and I get alot of attention. That is fun.

Thursday was a really busy day. I went to the hair dresser, which turned out to be pretty boring. I took a long nap there, while Mom sat and read her book or chatted with the other people there. Then we went to a bank and because I sat so good, someone gave me a piece of biscuit. I have to do more of that sitting thing. Then it was off to the Post Office. There was this lady who almost knocked Mom over in order to get close to me. I was glad Mom was holding me in her arms -- that lady was almost drooling over me.

Later in the day, we went to Accupuncture and sat in the waiting room for my big sister, Ellen. I stayed in a down so good that 3 people walked through the room and didn't even see me. Mom says I am a really good boy. YEAH!!!

2004-11-19T17:14:00.000-05:00

I have been told that we black dogs are challenging to photo. Not to mention that getting used to a new camera can be difficult. Look for the blob of blue jacket and you can see me.
A Day at the Movie

Movie Time

2004-11-14T16:56:00.000-05:00

UGA had an outing to the Lowe's Theatre in Webster yesterday. "Polar Express" was the movie of choice and it was very good. I was very good for about the first hour, Mom only had to press me gently back to the floor occasionally several times. (Glad she doesn't keep track) The good news is that each time she checked to see if I was chewing on my leash, it was still dry as a bone.

After the first hour, that floor got pretty hard. I just couldn't get comfy and Mom figured that out. She was such a sweetie, she lifted me up and I got to take a great nap snuggled in her arms. On the way out, she told me that probably won't happen ever again, but it sure was fun while it lasted.

2004-11-12T11:02:00.000-05:00

First day at new home. Resting in the leaf pile

A Day in the Life of Louie

2004-11-12T10:41:00.000-05:00

This is a first attempt at creating a blog. Let's see what happens. My name is Louie and I am an 8 week old pup. I have a big event in front of me as I am just beginning to learn to become a working dog of Upstate Guide Dogs of West Bloomfield, NY. My host family has graciously taken a couple of pictures of me... Let's see if we can get them to show up.