I should know better

You probably guessed it - I`ve not been well. Only getting out of bed to see to the dogs, and neglecting the computer. The usual chest infection, complicated by a tummy bug.

Nevertheless, I`m up, trying to get a firm grip on Christmas, which got away from me at breakneck speed - and already planning more shows in the future.

My last doggy event, before I came down with everything, was an Afghan hands-on practice, where we were advised on what I can only call "going over the Afghan as Performance Art". I am told I go over Afghans "like a toy judge", and was told to strike bold poses, stride forward with authority and get a firm grip of the......subject. (In this case, a very patient hound.) I strode about and took a firm hold and had a feeling that I should be dressed up for this - possibly glam-rock. Also probably the dog...Afghans in platform boots...singing ABBA hits.

The puppies have been depressingly frenetic. At training class on Tuesdays they seem to think they will be competing in the Olympics. Despite total ear meltddown due to teething - I expect sabre-toothed tigers never had the problems getting their second teeth that Boris has - the little lad is still ready and willing to strut his stuff....and his sister is not. She only wants to run.

The adults gave me no peace either. One of the cats has adopted a high branch in the walnut tree as her favourite and the baying pack settles at the base every morning, cheering Florian The Climbing Dog on in his eternal upward quest for Cat Dinner. He heaves himself grimly upwards, and they shout their orders for a tail or a bit of ear. Eentually the cat moves on, or I come out and shout and threaten an excited muddy pack. I dream of a quiet day in bed....

Not a cat`s chance in hell of that.....