Nice Change

The weather here has been pretty spectacular this past week.  Full sunny skies and warm (almost 80) after last weeks Arctic blast.  Today it has turned off gray and wet and will continue through the weekend.  But that's typical for February down here. 

We need the moisture badly.  From what I see in my Bluebonnet patch, we haven't had enough (during October) to have a good crop of them this Spring.  It's been a very nice change after last weeks freezer.  Wildflowers may be scarce this Spring.

The prolonged freeze has done a number on ALL our shrubs and trees.  Every leaf is brown and nasty, even our oak trees.  Our large shrubs that are resistant to cold are also brown and wilted.  I am not too worried about the oaks, I don't think they were permanently hurt.  They will just get an early start on dropping their leaves like they do in the Spring in preparation for the tassels and new growth.   The large shrubs, I am not so sure.  We may be replacing a lot of plants this Spring.  

The pup (Snickers) has really started coming out of his shell.  He has been a lot of fun especially during these COVID and weather shut ins.  It's been two months and he has finally started initiating play with me.  That's a big change as when we got him he seemed not to know how to play.  He still loves 'K' the most, she's his person for sure.  His anxiety when she leaves for errands has decreased.  Still needs a lot of work though.  He has become used to eating in a 'crate.'  WE have a soft sided one so he can ride in the car instead of 'K' holding him constantly.  That will be necessary for any day trips or road trips.  Can you imagine having to hold you dog for the entire trip?  Here are couple of pics of the little guy.

He loves the Granddaughter almost as much as 'K'

This is his waiting for me to make a move pose 

Best guess is he is a Jack Russell mixed with mini-dachshund.  He ain't Aussie pretty but he is pretty cute.  We are considering taking him for basic obedience class.  I have taught some basics before but those were the Aussies I did that with.  They apparently are smart enough to figure it out.  This one needs a little help.  teaching Sit is the easiest thing to teach.  Not with this guy.  Part of the problem is his legs are so short he is already almost on the ground so the things you do to get them to sit is pretty ineffective.  At least that's my story.  

Happy Trails