"When Maxmom's away, Lexi will...

... get up to all sorts of mischief!

Hello there everyone!

It's been more than two weeks since my last blogpost.  I'm sorry I've been so slack, but the truth is that I've been a bit under-the-weather with a horrible, persistent cough.  It has given new meaning to the phrase: "Coughing your eyeballs out".  Phew, the coughing fits have been exhausting and fatiguing!  Just when I think that the virus is contained, another spasm descends on me and leaves me gasping for breath.  Hopefully I'll be back to normal soon.

The effect of my 'sickies' has been that my pooches have been in "lock-down mode".  They've mostly spent the days indoors with me, sleeping away the time and staring at me with wide, concerning eyes. I've had to cancel two of Toby's agility classes during this time.  With no voice and a tight chest it's been futile even contemplating the evening classes. Sorry Toby! 
Toby eyes say it all - he's missing his classes.  Hopefully we can get back soon.

As they say, "When the cat's away, the mice will play."  At least this is Lexis take on the situation.  She's thoroughly enjoyed her unsupervised time in the garden. (or rather, what's left of the garden!) 

My short visit outside this morning revealed an array of strange objects - socks, drain-filters, uprooted plants and patches of missing lawn. If I look at her landscaping activities, there is absolutely no sign of any negative side-effects following her spaying operation two weeks ago.  Lexi is alive, well and full of the joys of life.  She's is always up for a game with Toby.

 Her training hasn't been affected by my condition because it's on a Saturday MORNING when my chest is reasonable.  She is currently participating in the preparation for her CGC (bronze) certificate.  But, judging from her work in my garden, I'd say there's a lot of catching up to do.

At night, Lexi makes herself comfortable to sleep off all her energetic activities.  She has usurped the couches in our home and I've not had the energy to disagree with her. Besides, she's a cuddle-bunny of note and has allowed me to give her endless ear-rubs and soak in her special warmth. 

 When she's not on my lap, she's in the garden, or in the swimming pool.  Lexi doesn't believe that winter is any excuse for not swimming.

On a different note, if you've not yet seen this video of Toby and her (at 12 weeks), please do so.  For some reason, this video has gone viral with over 16000 hits!

Ageing 'Aunt Tam' just goes with the flow...  She's really getting on now and sometimes struggles to get up in the morning.  

She's on regular dosages of Rimadyl too, but still enjoys life - particularly if she's taken on a walk.  Walks allow Tammy the special opportunity to tick of the various items on her "bucket list": - chasing birds, eating bird-poop, saying 'howzit' to other dogs and to be very vocal in the process.  By the time she gets home, she's exhausted, but very satisfied. There's still a lot of life in her. She's 13 years old now...a graceful old lady.

The dry, chilly days of winter are still with us although I notice that the Namaqualand daisies are starting to show their happy faces.  Soon, our world will be a wash of orange on the pavements signalling the change of  temperatures and the hope of Spring.

Just some other, random news: 

We visited the amazing 'Bodyworlds' exhibition last weekend....

 What an incredible event! Dr. Gunther von Hagens' exhibition offers an unprecedented and unique look beneath our own human skin.  It's been on display worldwide for 15 years and has been visited by more than 35 million people in over 70 cities. The exhibition in Johannesburg was very tastefully put together and is extremely respectful of the various donor Plastinates.  It certainly gives one a new perspective on our amazing human bodies. I'll never look at my own body the same way again.  If you've not had the opportunity to see one of these exhibitions , I would highly recommend it.  It is mesmerising!

Yesterday, was the 95th birthday celebrations of our country's iconic Nelson Mandela.  The country was abuzz of goodwill as people donated 67 minutes of their time to reach out and do good for others. My own contribution has been delayed until I'm feeling better, but I have something special in mind.  :) Happy birthday, Madiba!  May you get better soon!

Perhaps I should go and wash Toby's paws as my act of charity in the meantime. 

 What do you think?

That's all for now.  I hope that you are all well and happy. 

 Have a wonderful weekend, dear friends.  

Sending lotsaluv