Thursday, November 12, 2020

Alaska's Energy

Great Pyranees

Sassy and I learned to calm barking, fenced dogs by asking, "Who's a good dog?" They stop as if wondering, "How do they know me?" I point at the dogs and say, "YOU are a good dog." Barking stops.

Today, Alaska - a Great Pyrenees - was at her fence, so Sassy went over to say hello and play a little tag, with each dog on its own side. Suddenly, Alaska was bounding toward me, as if defeating the physical barrier of the fence with special powers. 

Imagine puppy energy, puppy playfulness, and full-sized dog strength. Alaska played with me, Sassy barking in happiness or jealousy, until one owner came out. She was already frustrated with this giant puppy chewing off his rope. For now, the fence was useless.

Skinny-Bo was like that next door, but he was normal size with a high energy and mischief level. When I blocked Bo's frontal attacks, he ran full speed at me and collided with my back. But after a time, I saw down and talked to him and petted him. He was starving for affection, like many dogs which are bought for cuteness and not given the companionship they crave.

I graded three classes today. Covid sent everyone online, and suddenly each institution needed trained online teachers and supervisors. But I would rather see the masks and capricious fake laws go away.

I am working to finish the Walther book, then garden photos, then the book on Bible texts and translations.


 The Wind in the Willows is often called the best adult children's book, but Nesbit is even better.



Nesbit's "children's books" are read regularly by famous authors. They are in a world of their own, and she had a terrible life.