Dogsitting

Technically, it's actually pet sitting, but Catface is so low-maintenance, I spend much more time with Bachus. He's part beagle, part lab, and part crazy. But fun.

I got back to Athens yesterday, just as Smokin' Fairy headed out, so I get to look in on the animals. Bachus is just such a perky, jumpy dog. Last night, we watched House (he sat on my lap, all 70lbs of him), then I worked on my drumming skills in Rockband. On the easiest songs and easiest setting, I am pretty good. He runs all over the yard, and is very good about responding when he is called.

Today, I got up at 7.30AM to let the dog out so he doesn't explode. Then this afternoon, after everyone had lunch, Bachus and I went for a ride. He loves the car and couldn't get more excited, sticking his nose through the cracked windows or sunroof, jumping around all over the car. Headed up to Stroud Run, which muchly reminds me of Walnut Creek in Charlottesville, only even further out. I have never been out there before, which was evidenced by the "scenic" route we took. I pretty much just gaged how close I was based on the pooch's excited panting in my ear. Unfortunately, there were a bunch of people to make sure I kept him on the leash. Which is a real trick, since Bachus darts and runs, usually at the same time. So I got some cardio and amused looks before realising I had clipped the leash to the wrong ring. But since he is a good crazy dog, he came right back to me.

I am so spoiled by the very mellow Arnie, who doesn't respond to his name, but also doesn't run. When we would go hiking, he insisted on being the leader, which was funny, especially when I would take the lead. It made me a bit homesick for my Cville life, but meanwhile, I have surrogate pets and the world's most comfy couch (my butt was so happy when I finally sat on it last night. Squishy!).