This time of year, the house fills with delicious smells and I wait, expectantly, patiently, hopefully on the couch until the scrape of the knife against the sharpener. Then and only then is it time to move to the kitchen. Pettigrew gets a tidbit. Sometimes, it's clearly not accidental at all! My position? Seated. Front … Continue reading In My Own Voice # 40: Holiday Love
Category: food
Left Out in the Cold
Pettigrew and my husband have their own love language. Peanut butter is their conversational lubricant of choice. The other day while I was enjoying a mug of green tea for my afternoon pick-me-up, my husband wandered into the kitchen for a snack. On his heels came Pettigrew. I invited Pettigrew over for some rubs, but his … Continue reading Left Out in the Cold
In My Own Voice #35: The Worst Night of My Life
It started, as these things often do, with something so deceptively wonderful that I was completely blindsided when everything went south. Typically, the Woman and I have a bit of a back and forth around when to eat dinner. Invariably, I have to remind her not once, not twice, but three or more times before … Continue reading In My Own Voice #35: The Worst Night of My Life
Things (May) Happen for a Reason
Do you believe that things happen for a reason? Personally, I go back and forth. Recently, what seemed to be a setback, proved to be a blessing in disguise. Due to covid-related supply chain issues, Pettigrew’s dog food is no longer available. With no expected return date. If you have been following this blog for … Continue reading Things (May) Happen for a Reason
The Nose Doesn’t Always Know
Much has been made about a dog’s powerful sense of smell. This unique skill qualifies them to find bombs, drugs, and lost or trapped people. I actually looked up how a search and rescue dog operates. Yep, it’s by scent. Alas, Pettigrew’s schnoz is lacking. Although he thoroughly enjoys sampling the olfactory delights on his … Continue reading The Nose Doesn’t Always Know
The Battle Lines Are Drawn
Do we allow data to inform our decisions or not? Pettigrew out on a walk. I had thought we were a data-driven family. As a scientist, researcher, and doctor, my husband has a healthy respect for data and its importance in developing a successful course of treatment. Or, so I thought. Apparently, his ability to … Continue reading The Battle Lines Are Drawn
“What could be more important than a little something to eat?” —Winnie the Pooh
“Now then, Piglet, let’s go home.”“But, Pooh,” cried Piglet, all excited “do you know the way?”“No,” said Pooh. “But there are twelve pots of honey in my cupboard and they’ve been calling to me for hours. I couldn’t hear them properly before, because Rabbit would talk, but if nobody says anything except those twelve pots, I think, Piglet, … Continue reading “What could be more important than a little something to eat?” —Winnie the Pooh
In My Own Voice #32: Tips for Training Your Human: The “2-P” Approach
Training your human can be a frustrating and discouraging endeavor, but, I assure you that you will have success if you follow my plan and never forget the two Ps: Perseverance and Patience. Whether you are teaching a new skill, or merely refreshing a skill that has been lost, it is best to start small, … Continue reading In My Own Voice #32: Tips for Training Your Human: The “2-P” Approach
In My Own Voice #25: Holding Out for the Good Stuff
As you know, I carefully monitor the deliveries to our home and, lately, we’ve been getting boxes and boxes of the good stuff. Can you believe, for countless years I accepted my fate and crunched my way through hard, dry pellets they called food! If I had known then what I know now, well, let … Continue reading In My Own Voice #25: Holding Out for the Good Stuff
In My Own Voice #24: Come on People, Focus!
Everyone seems to be wandering around in la la land these days. Schedules out the window! Meals. Walks. There’s no rhyme or reason to when things will happen anymore! In truth, I am getting a bit concerned about my family. Last week there was that whole bit where they didn’t think I could make it … Continue reading In My Own Voice #24: Come on People, Focus!
Ruth Polk 