Rainy-Day Streamin' . . . .

Debbie's boots would be pretty handy around here this morning.  We have water aplenty from the overnight rains.  That means one more day of waiting for barnyard and pastures to dry up. 

So, that also means more fun with dogs while we wait.  When Debbie brought Brooke and Todd yesterday,  before taking off for an overnight stay in Northeastern Washington, we enjoyed a gathering of sorts on the front deck.

Don't worry one bit about that cat in the midst of it all. 

He's bigger than Foster, and he can take care of himself.  

He has commanded total respect since Day One from each and every dog who makes the mistake of getting too upclose and personal.

We think Jonas thinks he's a dog cuz he often comes along when Mom Love, the pied piperess of the Lovestead menagerie takes off down the lane.

He often tires of the intense herding and eventually falls out of line, heading back to the barn or the shop, where he hangs out with Fuzzy Wuzzy or Festus, respectively.

Yesterday's gathering was both tame and fun, watching the expressions and dynamics of all involved. 

I think the "dynamics" we saw earlier this week have died down.  It's important when there's a new kid on the block for the residents of the block to receive reassurance.

We observed some uncertainty from certain members of the Border Collie nation at first when this little "invader" of alleged Aussie roots showed up at the Lovestead AND stayed. 

I also experienced several cases of the "cling-on's" from doggies concerned about losing their place in the pecking order.  

Our job this week, as nurturing humans, has involved significant reinforcement.  

"Yes, we still love you as much as we loved you yesterday."  Maybe I should have broken into song:   

I will Always LOVE yo-o-o-o-o----Kiwi, Kea, Brooke and Todd.  

Yes, I will.

Now, let me love little Foster too-o-o-o!

I think by now everyone feels comfortable that the pecking order will remain pretty much intact.

I must add Todd has discovered a tasty advantage with the new kid.  With Foster comes puppy chow.  

Add that to your Atta Boy diet, and you've got some extra treats.  

Short-lived, though.

Before he was able to grab a second bite of puppy chow, Todd's dad this morning snatched the  dish and told him that was not a good idea.

Todd's internal plumbing does not do well on a change in diet, as we experienced yesterday afternoon when the only way I could inhale was to hold my breath, run to the screen door and grab a swig of outside air. 

So, while Todd was receiving his lecture this morning, I just kept my mouth shut so as not to inflict any interference between parent and pup. 

The rain will cease sometime today, and we're anxious to enjoy those gorgeous weekend days they promised us.  

By the time the lovely weather comes, all will be pretty much status quo among the critters here.  And, that will be good.

Happy Friday.