Shrunk

My spare bed has shrunk. Intentionally of course. I had a king-sized bed in there but it really was too big. So when I was offered a smaller version I jumped at the chance.

It was the Great Bed Swap Around today. My old big bed is now living across the close. My new little bed was put together. I’m still no nearer sorting out a replacement mattress for me though. But that seems to be a bit of a trend right now. It’ll get sorted I’m sure.

Grateful for the smaller bed. The room looks huge now! Forgive the amount of cushions, they’re still on restriction from Bert. He’s rather partial to running around with one in his mouth. Hence the fact they’re out of bounds. Not that there is anything wrong with a cushion or two. I have several to go in my new lorry.

Smaller bed means new bedding. I love new bedding. I need some for the new lorry too. So if you insist…

Breakthrough

This is the face of a little puppy who’s had two breakthroughs today. Firstly, he took himself off to his crate several times while I was on video calls. He curled up on his bed and slept.

He did it for the first time yesterday. But I didn’t want to count any chickens. Before, I’d had to put him in there. So the fact he’s now choosing it is huge.

Secondly, he’s worked out how to use the cat flap. Admittedly, he kinda fell through it the first time. But after that, he had a lot of fun going in and out. Out was much easier for him than coming back in. Much more of a scramble. He was most pleased with himself.

Unfortunately this has meant that he’s been in and out like a yo-yo. Most times bringing me a piece of old fence.

Speaking of fences, I took some flowers round to my neighbour to thank her for replacing my fence. She said it was a very last minute decision. But is really pleased that I’m pleased.

Returns

The Dark Destroyer strikes again! I bought Bert a new car bed as he’s starting to outgrow the car crate. This is one of those fluffy ones that goes on the seat and they clip into it.

This is what is left of the box it came in. He had so much fun destroying it! Let’s hope I don’t need to return it…

And he doesn’t destroy the new bed! We’ll road test it tomorrow. Wish me luck!

Wonderment

Well it’s the first day of 2025 and to be honest it’s been a pretty nothing day. I really wasn’t feeling the whole NYE thang, so I was in bed by 10:30pm.

Of course, I was woken up by the fireworks at midnight. That and the howling winds. Why would people want to let off fireworks when it’s so stormy?! Seems a bit of a waste but there you go.

The storm continued today. With the added bonus of hail as I was mucking out. Bert was doing his best Dumbo impression with his ears flapping in the wind. Not sure he was that enamoured with walking in the driving rain.

He did throughly enjoy his hot shower when he got home. As did I. Not together, I’d like to point out.

We had a pretty chilled one. Rounded off with the Christmas tradition that is World’s Strongest Man. Well I didn’t attempt the annual ‘Christmas tree’ carry, so might as well watch the professionals. It’s the little things…

Double decker

Bert had his second jab today. He was a little confused about being back at the vets with no activities after last night’s Puppy Pre-School. He was very happy when he got to choose a new toy afterwards though. In fact, he got 3 new toys and an antler to chew. It appears I am that dog-owner.

His second jab knocked him for six so he’s spent a lot of today asleep. I took advantage of the calm to get lots done.

Dodo took advantage of the top deck! I’d put the radiator bed up there as I couldn’t open the crate door. There was lots of purring and snoring going on.

Of course, Bert was fully refreshed this evening, tearing round the living room. He loves his antler and has been chomping away on it. Now he’s had his vaccinations, he’ll soon be able to explore more and have some puppy play dates. Exciting times ahead!

New bed

Bert’s new bed arrived today. I’d barely got it out of the packaging and he was trying to get in it. He was also testing its durability. With his teeth! Either that or he was trying to get the perfect spot for it. By carrying it round the room.

He was very happy with it. There was a bit of burrowing going on too. He’s such a happy little chap.

He’s also a shredder. He’s obsessed with toilet roll middles. They get shredded. And takes great joy in going in the waste paper box next to the fire. He’s shredded a few receipts and bits of scrap paper. Thankfully they’re there to be burned so no harm done. Other than my lounge floor looks a bit like the inside of a snow globe…

Day of rest

My get up and go, clearly got up without me this morning. By the time I crawled out of bed, I was feeling rather unmotivated. Cut myself some slack. After all, it is the ‘day of rest’. Whatever that is!!

I found the warm spot in the conservatory and sat roasting myself there for a few hours. Catching up on some online learning.

Then headed to the yard to take Buddy out for a leg stretch. It was a very sedate affair. Even if the wind was swirling about a bit.

I’ve got a busy few weeks coming up. So made the most of the day. Even though it feels like I wasted the day in some ways. I need to take a leaf out of my animals books. The kittens are pros at self-care. So is Buddy in his own way. One day I’ll crack it… till then, I’m being kind to myself.

Scar face

It’s been a bit of a worrying time for me this weekend. Dodo went missing for over 48 hours. He missed 4 meals!! Hugo is known to wander, not for any length of time though. But Dodo rarely does. So it was very out of character for him.

I’d been out looking for him. But as I hadn’t been at home the whole weekend, I’d hoped I’d just missed him. But when he didn’t return for dinner last night, I started to fear the worst.

I was woken at 3:40am by a very little voice on the bed. He was very timid, tired and thin. Goodness knows where he’d been. After giving him some food (Hugo was rather happy about extra food), we all headed back to bed.

I woke up feeling rather rubbish. Pounding headache and thick head. So back to bed I went. Dodo joined me for more cuddles. Trust me to be ill when the builders are in next door. Lots of sawing and banging. Still I think we both needed the sleep.

Poor Dodo has a big gash on his face. I’m guessing he got into a fight and either ran or was chased off. He might have gotten himself stuck somewhere too. Who knows?! I’m so relieved he’s home. He’s very happy to be home too.

He’s barely left my side all day. My little purr monster is returning. Let’s hope normal service is returning for me too. Early night for us both me thinks.

Missed

Think it’s safe to say that I’ve been missed. The kittens have been close at hand today.

Think it’s safe to say that I’ve missed my bed. And the kittens of course. As lovely as it’s been being away, it was very lovely waking up in my own bed. I do love my little house.

Hugo decided that snuggles were in order. Typical as I was getting ready to go to a Committee meeting.

Don’t feel too bad for him, he’s purring loudly next to me as I type. He’s one happy boy.

Accident prone

I can always tell when I’m tired. I get even more accident prone. Even by my standards, I’ve excelled myself.

Today I’ve sprayed myself in the face with olive oil, tripped over the dogs on numerous occasions, nearly face planted after getting caught in a bramble, hit myself in the face with a cupboard door, hit my head on the stairs and parted company with Buddy. To name but a few.

I will be admitting defeat and heading to bed. The way my day’s going, I’ll probably fall out!

It must run in the family as my Dad was discharged from hospital today after taking a tumble on Saturday. Thankfully nothing broken. Of course it meant that Mum needed to be admitted too. She’s staying a bit longer so they can assess her further. It’s been a lot and many phone calls have been made. Again.