Two years ago, we were in California, and Charlie had to sit on a lap to help with his blog.
Now we live in Oregon, and the lap is no longer an option. Charlie directs from the floor.
...just don't call him "late for dinner"!
Charlie has always had an overdrive gear. It starts with "the zoomies," and then quickly escalates into "pogo stick to lick mom's face," followed by "nip mom's clothing," and culminating in all-out play biting. With mom, of course.
And to an extent that works with adult Charlie. But it requires patience, discipline, and a toy within reach. When the "down" finally does get through, you can't pet his head or expect to just walk away unscathed. You are a target. The only options are to scratch his chest and stomach until he calms or to throw a ball and make an escape when he goes after it.
Charlie has a love-hate relationship with the postman. 
In fact once, when we were gone for the daily mail delivery, we returned home to find a package with the requisite treat on top.
Well, not exactly "dances". More like "runs". And in the opposite direction...
Charlie adjusted easily to this, his second RV camping trip. 
But he quickly warmed up to it, and soon he was splashing around in the water, exploring.
Charlie loves to hold paws. In fact he demands it!
Eventually he will become tired and lie down. But you're not out of the woods yet. Oh no...
Charlie's California friend, Tomo, recently came to visit, along with his parents. Charlie had a great time following him around and doing tricks for treats. He even showed Tomo one of his best ones -- catching treats right out of the air.
Charlie may get his squinty smile from his dad. But that beautiful coat and those shaggy flyaway ears seem to be all mom!
I came across this picture of Charlie's Indiana dad (above) and was struck by how much adult Charlie (below) looks like him!
The same profile. That same squinty smile. Even the way he holds his nose up in the air, just rocking with excitement, looking happy, when someone he likes approaches.
The other night Charlie and Gabbie were chewing chews in the backyard. They each treat this as a somewhat dangerous and competitive endeavor, requiring constant vigilance and care, and sometimes even growling, lest the other make a play for and steal away a coveted morsel, let alone the whole chew.
When dinner was over and the plates ready to lick, Gabbie stayed outside chewing, but Charlie arrived in the kitchen in a heartbeat. With his chew, of course. Which he carefully placed on the plate so he could protect it, while taking care of business. What a dog!
Pssst! Gabbie!! Guess what!!???
