Author: Liz

I’ve been hungry for turkey.

Last week, the Norbest bone in turkey breasts that I like were on sale.

Last night (Wednesday), I finally roasted the one I bought.

This morning, I was dividing up the meat between frig and freezer…

Very interesting to everyone – but Bear particularly.

Auggie was here and there and everywhere.

Waiting for turkey.

Getting niblets of turkey.

Sharing the early turkey.

***Bear has never been growly or in any way protective of his food or treats. But I did keep a close eye…NOT a problem.

We spent most of today (Thursday) with the house wide open. I did keep Auggie with me when I thought Bear wanted some quiet time in the bedroom but otherwise, everyone did what they wanted to do. It was rainy off and on but Bear was out when not. Bear and I had our walks and a Jeep ride with a walk and oh, my!!! – I am so, so happy with how things are going. I send thanks to Bob and Karl and George and Gus…I am absolutely postive that they are all whispering in Bear and Auggie’s ears!

Yesterday morning, I spilled coffee on the edge of the sunroom rug. That rug is wool. I rinsed it well and then folded it back over a footstool so the wet edge was in the air.

It turned out to be the best cat toy ever!

Auggie played and played and played.

In and under through the corners, hide and seek… (and the mouse that was lost was found…hiding in the dust bunnies under my bed!)

…up and over.

The second best play time:

Auggie and Bear!

Sunday afternoon, they had some very good interaction and nose touching and Bear stayed calm when Auggie pounced and ran by him. I nearly came undone with joy as I could see we are really making good progress and that Bear is learning to be ok with Auggie’s darting and jumping.

I was so happy with Bear’s reactions, I dug out a hot dog to give him some bites as a treat. This was a kind of happy accident as I realized it also helped him take focus off Auggie and let them have a bit of a break. Plus, it really seemed to reinforce what was ok. We continued for nearly an hour of together time and when things went very, very well or if they looked like they might be getting too excited we had a hot dog break. I shredded the meat and a training treat sized piece made Bear happy.

Although Auggie didn’t get any hot dog, he did seem to get into the rhythm of play and quiet, play and quiet – which helped everything as well, i.e. they are figuring out how to play compatibly. And Bear is learning that when he’s had enough, he can just be.

Onward!