Exploring Dog Friendly Kitsap Peninsula: Point No Point Lighthouse and Beach

Like I said yesterday, I wanted to explore more of the Kitsap Peninsula. So as soon as it stopped raining today, we hopped into the car and headed north... to Point No Point. What's the point? (ha ha) Well, we were told that Point No Point Beach was a great one for dogs like me!

They had lots of these in Haida Gwaii

We drove through the woods. It wasn't all that far from the Poulsbo area. We were on the road to Hansville.

Soon I saw the Salish Sea (I guess they also call it Puget Sound). There was a float plane flying overhead which reminded me of Haida Gwaii. I was worried that it might be crowded at Point No Point because it was a holiday weekend. I don't like to be bothered when I am exploring beaches!

Imagine my surprise when we pulled up to the parking lot right at Point No Point Lighthouse. There was plenty of room for ME! First thing we did was head for the beach. It's a Kitsap County Beach so I didn't have to use any of my blogging income for fees. Yay! This beach had nice sand, driftwood and plenty of shells. There were some people fishing. One guy caught a Silver but didn't offer to show it to me. Others were off shore in fishing boats trying to catch SALMON!

Here I am on the Point No Point Beach. I love beaches!

As I walked down the beach, I was left pretty much alone to sniff the sea life, climb on driftwood and enjoy the sea air ruffling my floppy ears. Crows cawed at me.

I loved my time there listening to the water lapping on the shore and hunting for stuff in the sand. I found a driftwood shelter and thought it would make an amazing beach house for ME, CINNAMON!

Don't you think this would make a great driftwood beach house for ME?

Reluctantly I walked back to the lighthouse area. I was really surprised when the docent at the lighthouse INVITED ME IN AND OFFERED ME SOME WATER! Wow! I soon learned that the Point No Point Lighthouse is the oldest on Puget Sound. It was built in 1879. They sure take good care of it. There was lots to see in the museum including a huge fog horn. There was a ladder up to the fresnel lens but they wouldn't let me climb up there. They offered us a guided tour but I just preferred to sniff around and look for dog-related things.

Here's the light station. They were really nice to me there.

Soon we left the lighthouse and went over to a two story house that once housed the lighthouse keeper and his family. But now people (but NO dogs) can stay there overnight. I'd love to do that, especially during a storm, but I guess that won't happen.

Here's the Keepers Quarters

We walked back down on the beach for a little bit and I loved looking at the boats. I wished I was on one... fishing.

Dream on, Cinnamon. Dream on!

Oh yes, wanna know why Point No Point is called that? Well, back in the 1840's the Wilkes Expedition arrived in the area. They thought the point there would be a really big one. But it wasn't. It was just a small point. So they were disappointed (pun intended) and named it Point No Point. Sour grapes, I guess.

I liked it there. It's a great place for a walk, for beach combing and maybe even for a stay in a driftwood dog house!

More Information
Point No Point Beach
Visiting Hansville, WA
More Dog Friendly Kitsap Peninsula Articles from Cinnamon

Exploring Dog Friendly Kitsap Peninsula: Let's Go Tidepooling!

Here I am headed down the Suquamish
Fishing Dock

I'm taking a break from my geriatric dog care duties here in Poulsbo on the Kitsap Peninsula of Washington State. It's been misty out but that doesn't stop me from wanting a bit of adventure. And, I found out, it is excellent weather for checking out the tidal life along Agate Passage.

It's easy to find a beach on the Kitsap Peninsula because it is surrounded by water and easily accessible beaches. In fact, there are about 300 miles of shoreline! Much of that shoreline is dog-friendly. But I just wanted to travel a short distance today. I headed down the road about 8 miles and ran smack dab into Suquamish. Down to the water we went. I was excited. I couldn't wait to smell those smells and chase a few crabs and seagulls.

I noticed a huge public dock and there were people crabbing. Now that interested me. I could smell the crabs from the parking lot. So we walked down the long dock and checked out the people. Some children said I was "cute!" They said the crabbing was pretty good today. There was a sailboat moored at the end of the dock but we didn't go aboard. It was time for tide pooling, one of my favorite hobbies.

I loved this. The tide was out and it smelled really good on the beach.

Yep, the tide was out! I noticed a boat ramp and so we took that down to the rocky, crunchy beach. There were some seagulls there checking out the beach too so I figured there would be some interesting things to smell. Now, being a hound, my favorite thing to do is sniff around. I could care less if the beach is a sandy one where I can chase a frisbee. The Kitsap Peninsula has those too but I'd rather find a few crabs and check under the seaweed to see what's there.

I love finding stuff like this... a crab shell and fresh seaweed!

There were sea anenomes, crab shells and even a fish skeleton (which my owner wouldn't let me smell). It didn't even rain on me. Some boats were going by on the beautiful water and the waves from the wash lapped the shore, scaring me a bit. I like to wade in the water, but I'm NOT a swimmer!

I loved the marine air, I loved seeing the boats and I LOVED SMELLING THE CRABS! It was a great outing and made me want to do more. Maybe we'll check out the beach at Point No Point. I heard it's a great one for dogs!

More Information
City Dog Kitsap Article
Pet Friendly Kitsap Peninsula
More Dog Friendly Kitsap Peninsula Articles from Cinnamon

Wordless Wednesday: Indy the Smiling Dog

This is my Country Cousin Indy. She has a perpetual smile on her face.
She also gets IN your face!

How I Celebrated National Dog Day

This turned out to be a pretty good day after all. I was really worried when my owner left us and took off for the Suquamish Museum. But she didn't stay all that long and came back to play with us and let us out in the pasture.

So how did we celebrate? Remi, Indy and I got to go chase rabbits in the pasture, that's how! I, of course, took the lead and scared two rabbits! Wow!

After that we gathered on the patio at the patio table for special treats. They were from Trader Joe's so you know they were healthy treats. Since they were something different, I was really excited! We each got one.

Hooray for National Dog Day!

Then when dinner time came we each got a scoop of cottage cheese on top of our kibble. That was a REAL TREAT! I loved it!

After that, we got to stay up late and play in the back yard. We had a pretty good time on National Dog Day. All three of us are adopted and all three of us are celebrating that.

Love, Cinnamon

What is National Dog Day?

The best thing about National Dog Day, today, is that it is NOT ABOUT CATS! It's about a special species we call dogs and, particularly, domesticated dogs LIKE ME!

National Dog Day is kind of new. It was founded in 2004 by an author who wanted to remind people of the value of dogs and urge people to adopt dogs rather than buy them.

National Dog Day (Also known as: International Dog Day & National Dog Appreciation Day) is celebrated August 26th annually to recognize the number of dogs that need to be rescued each year, and acknowledge family dogs and dogs that work selflessly each day to save lives, keep us safe and bring comfort.

Dogs put their lives on the line every day - for their law enforcement partner, for their blind companion, for a child who is disabled, for our freedom and safety by detecting bombs and drugs and pulling victims of tragedy from wreckage.

And dogs make people happy. So the best way to celebrate National Dog Day is to make the important decision that when you are ready to have a pet added to your family, you will ADOPT A DOG! I, Cinnamon, was adopted and I think that is the way things should be. There are so many of my friends out there without homes that would be great pets and work animals.

If you already have a dog, TREASURE YOUR DOG! Give your beloved pet an extra treat or two today. After all, National Dog Day comes around only once a year!

National Dog Day Website

Little Miss Sunbeam

This sunbeam on the landing is just right for ME!

Ever since I visited Haida Gwaii and stayed in the attic apartment at the B&B, I've earned the name "Little Miss Sunbeam." You see, even on a hot day, I love basking in the sun. There will be no Vitamin D deficiency for me, Cinnamon!

Sometimes I have to search high and low for a good sunbeam. At the Country Cousins' house THERE ARE NO SUNBEAMS ON THE FIRST FLOOR! I finally got smart and started looking upstairs AND THERE THEY WERE! I found sunbeams on the stairs. I found sunbeams in the hallway and, if the bedroom doors were not closed, I'll bet I'd find sunbeams in the bedrooms!

So I am much happier now. I have found my sunbeams. I think I'll go curl up in one now!

Love, Little Miss Sunbeam

Walking Liberty Bay in Poulsbo, WA

There are Vikings
all over the place in Poulsbo.

I'm still in Poulsbo, the little Norwegian town, dog-sitting the geriatric country cousins of mine. I keep busy exercising them, scaring frogs, scaring rabbits and making sure the place is secure.

But I am used to getting out and about much more. So this morning I asked to go for a ride along with my owner to the pharmacy. Yep, I was bored enough that the car ride sounded like fun for me, Cinnamon. Besides, sometimes the people at drive-up windows give out TREATS. One never knows.

So we headed south to Silverdale. We pulled in to the drive up window to get the prescriptions. There were no treats offered. DRAT!

So to make up for it all, my owner drove me to Poulsbo and we parked at the harbor. I love the harbor... all the boats and all the smells.

We took a walk along Liberty Bay and ended up on a really neat boardwalk. I thought maybe I should go down on the beach and check out the sea life but there were signs all over that the SHELLFISH WAS POISONOUS! So we didn't go down to the water or the beach.

Here I am on the boardwalk gazing
longingly out over Liberty Bay.

It was warm out, we had a nice walk. I wished I could have gone on a fishing boat but I can't always have my way, right?

I got hot so now I'm going to lie under the dining room table and take an afternoon nap.

Love, Cinnamon

Wordless Wednesday: Frog Hunter

This is what a frog hunter at work looks like.

It's Pooch Plunge Time Again in Vancouver, Washington

This isn't me because I don't know how to swim!

Do you live in Vancouver, Washington? If you do, you’ll want to know about this. It’s Pooch Plunge time again!

You can bring your four-legged friend to the Marshall Community Center pool for the second annual Pooch Plunge on Monday, Sept. 1.

There are two scheduled swims this year:

* 12-1:30 p.m. for small dogs only (25 lbs. and under)

* 1:30-4 p.m. for all dogs (large and small)

Admission to the Pooch Plunge is $5 per dog, cash or check only. The community center will be closed for maintenance on this date, so participants will need to enter through the rear pool patio doors. 

The Marshall Community Center is located at 1009 E. McLoughlin Blvd., near the Clark College campus.

Lifeguards will be provided to help keep your best friend safe. All dogs must be current on shots, dog and people friendly, and be willing to swim (no tossing your dog in). Human companions are not allowed in the pool during this event but we will have staff in the pool to assist dogs.

The City is completing annual maintenance on the pool that week and will drain and clean the pool after the Pooch Plunge event.

For more information, please call the Marshall Community Center at (360) 487-7100.

Having shared all this…. I have to say, I’m not going. I just like wading a bit and am not sure I even know how to swim. Now if they offered swimming lessons for dogs, I might be up for that!

Love, Cinnamon

The Pros and Cons of Guests

Here I am looking all innocent before our guest arrived.

I was so excited, I couldn't contain myself. I ran in circles. I was thrilled. We had a person come visit us. I was eager with anticipation. Would this person bring treats? Would this person bring toys? Certainly this new person would bring much more fun than I was having!

So my elder friends, Remi and Indy, attacked her at the front door.... smothering her with attention and love. My owner was embarrassed. But we thought this was the best way to get treats, attention and toys... right?

So they settled in and we tried to behave but really took turns kissing up to our house guest. Toys? Treats? Attention? It was all there for us to soak up, right?

As the days passed we did get loves and attention but then something else happened. We had to admit that the new friend was also there to see our owner. She wanted to do things WITHOUT US DOGS!

So here's the story. One night they took off after feeding us our dinners rather early. The were going to dinner THEMSELVES, BY THEMSELVES! That's rude, right?

That is when I decided that having a human friend visit was not all that good. THEY WERE OUT UNTIL 10 p.m. Can you believe that? 10 p.m.! I thought that was rude and neglectful.

So while they were gone, we talked... we dogs. We decided that we would NOT be peacefully asleep when they came back from the fun downtown. We would stay awake and make a rukus!

So we did. They pulled up in the car about 10 p.m. We barked, we yelped and we scratched at the doors. We acted like we were starving. We acted like we had to go to the bathroom. We acted like we were severely neglected. We acted like we had to go chase coyotes in the pasture.

So they started to feel badly and let us outside. I, Cinnamon, went bonkers. I smelled rabbits. I smelled mice and I thought I heard a coyote. I was inconsolable. I had to hunt, to chase and to howl. Arooo!

Finally we were so obnoxious that my owner came and caught me by my collar and the scruff of my neck and brought me back to the house. We were told, in no uncertain terms, that WE WERE TO CALM DOWN AND GO BACK TO BED!

So we did!

Cinnamon Goes Shopping

We had an equipment emergency here at the Country Cousins' yesterday. One of the lumpy balls was broken (by Indy) and we only had one left for THREE dogs to play with!

Since exercise is so important for these geriatric dogs, part of my duties as chief dog-sitter is to make sure we have all the equipment we need.

So, even though it was raining, I hopped in the car and we went shopping for MORE TOYS! Luckily Petco is not far at all.

Here's our local Petco

So I jumped out and went right in. You see, they allow dogs at Petco and APPRECIATE OUR BUSINESS! First I walked through the food section to see what was new and then we stopped and looked at pink collars (because I want one some day).

After that, we got down to business and looked at each and every toy. There were fuzzy toys, little dog toys, flying toys and Kong toys.

Here I am checking out the Kong toys. You can put treats inside them!

I really wanted something like a ball but it had to have a squeaker. And, it had to be the right size. And it had to be pretty strong to withstand chewing.

On the last aisle I found them. Hard, round, squeaky balls... and two sizes. I got three. Two big ones and one little one.

We were in the store a long time. I had to look at each and every toy.

So we drove home and put the balls on the counter for Indy and Remi to look at. They were very excited. We spent some time taking the tags off and making sure there were no strings or things poking out.

Here's what I bought. I think they will last awhile!

Then we headed out to the pasture to PLAY BALL! These balls are heavier so we have to be careful when we throw them. Other than that, they were a BIG HIT!

Love, Cinnamon the shopper

Free Shipping and Save 20 % on Everything in My New Pet Products Shop

I recently signed up and was approved to have a Coonhound Tales Shop on my website. It is powered by the reputable Inside Warehouse and most all pet products are represented. Now I, Cinnamon, don't really send these things to you. The program works with an entire network of suppliers who are going to be doing the shipping to YOU!

Here I am shopping in a regular store.
I much prefer shopping in my new online store!

I wanted to let you know that I tested it out myself. I ordered my favorite dog food, Merrick, in a 30 pound bag. I know what that costs. I have ordered it from several places. Let me tell you... I saved over ten dollars (off any cheap price I have EVER seen) and it is going to be delivered to my door. So it works.

Since it is a new program for me and I want it to succeed (I get my toy and food money from my income on my blog.. and treats too!), I am sharing the 20% off coupon code with you. You put it in at checkout. The coupon code is: COON-LAUNCH-20  This code gives 20% off the shopping cart amount (adds up to other existing discounts). I can only use it 20 times or 30 days from now (whichever comes first). There is no minimum amount for an order to apply this code. Oh yes, since I just ordered, there are 19 uses left. First come, first served!

Now you have the code. To find your preferred pet products you click on the Pet Supply Shop tab on my blog or on the Coonhound Tales Shop (on the bottom of any page), use the search or just browse. When I put in Merrick, all their products came up, even ones I didn't know existed!

Please try my shop. Both you and I will benefit!

Do you live in Vancouver, WA? Do you have a dirty dog?

Here's the answer for you! Come to the Fisher’s Landing New Seasons on August 23 from 12-3 p.m. to get your pooch washed and capture their footprint in plaster. All proceeds go to DOGPAW to support their off-leash dog parks in Clark County. More Information.

Tips for helping your older pet live a full and happy life

Here's old dog Indy after her work out in the rain.

While I am here dealing with taking care of two geriatric dogs, I thought I might do some reading up on the subject (not that I’ll ever get OLD!). I found this via BlogPaws from the American Veterinary Medical Association:

Pets are living longer and healthier lives thanks to developments in veterinary care and dietary habits. However, that doesn’t change the fact that their health begins to decline in their senior years at around the ages of six or seven.

Follow these simple tips to ensure a pet’s senior years are also its golden years:

Increase veterinary visits

Senior pets should be taken to the veterinarian twice a year, instead of only once a year. Semi-annual visits allow veterinarians to detect and treat any signs of illness early. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA.org) has a few tips to make veterinary visits a little better for everyone click HERE for more.

Look out for changes in behavior

Before any medical symptoms appear, behavioral changes can provide signs that something is wrong. Examples of behavior changes include confusion, decreased interaction with humans, house soiling, changes in sleep cycles, and more.

Watch for weight changes

Dogs and cats face opposite weight-related problems in old age. Overweight older dogs are at increased risk of health problems. Weight loss is the chief cause for concern for felines.

Consider modifying diet and nutrition

As pets age, their dietary needs change. Senior pets may need easily digestible foods or foods with different calorie levels and ingredients that include anti-aging nutrients.

Keep pets physically active

Just as with older humans, it is very important to keep senior pets moving. Maintaining mobility through appropriate exercise will help keep them healthier.

Play stimulating games

Even pets can show signs of senility. Games (such as playing with food puzzle toys) that require time, patience, and problem-solving abilities will help keep pets mentally active. 

Here I am playing ball with Indy

Be aware of pet health risks and symptoms

Some pet breeds and lifestyles have increased risks associated with them. For instance, dogs and cats that have not been neutered or spayed have a higher risk of developing mammary, testicular, and prostate cancers.  As pets get older they develop many of the same illnesses that are present in humans such as cancer, heart disease, kidney and urinary tract diseases, diabetes, and even senility. These seven tips will help maximize a pet’s senior years, but always check with veterinarians for specific guidelines on pet care.

I learned something, didn’t you? I realized all the exercising I do with these elderly dogs is a good thing. And, the games we play are stimulating for them. I’ll have to talk to them about all the lying around they do between playtimes though! Meanwhile, I’d better get busy with my online Luminosity training so I don’t lose any of MY brain power!

Love, Cinnamon

Wordless Wednesday: Chewy Time

On a warm summer day, sometimes I just enjoy lying in the grass chewing on a blue toy!

Cinnamon Teaches Hunting to the Geriatric Dogs

I know I hear something.
Aren't I a beautiful hunting dog?

You know by now that I am stuck babysitting two older dogs. But, they are not too old to get into trouble from time to time. So last night I saw an opportunity to teach them something... how to hunt!

I heard something in the tree. It sounded like a squirrel or maybe even a raccoon. So I called Indy and Remi over so they could see how a real coon hound works.

First they told me that there were no squirrels or raccoons in the tree. I think they were just lazy.

So they laid there in the grass and watched me. I searched every limb of the tree for a varmint. And I heard more noise as I searched.

I was getting pretty wound up. But Indy and Remi just laid there with sly smiles on their faces.

Come on you guys! Get off your lazy duffs and join me on the hunt!

Look up, like this. I think I see something!

This is how you catch them. You climb the tree!

This excitement went on for about 20 minutes. After trying very hard to make the climb, I just gave up and thought I'd join the elder dogs for a treat. As I walked away, I heard something go "plop, plop." I turned around to see two big seed pods falling to the ground. In fact, that is what I had been hearing to all the time.... stupid seed pods! No squirrel. No Raccoon. No prey at all.

But I tried!

Love, Cinnamon

Sometimes I Don't Do a Very Good Job

Well, here I am at the Country Cousins' taking care of those two geriatric dogs. Aside from beating me at a game of "Lumpy Balls," Indy is pretty well behaved. But today, during nap time, I walked in to the living room and look what I saw.

Here's Indy making herself comfortable on the couch. Who does she think she is?

Indy had decided to disobey the house rules and sleep on the couch! Not only did she sleep on the couch, she messed it up!

I wasn't sure what to do. I thought she might bite me if I tried to move her. So I just laid in my USUAL PLACE ON THE FLOOR and watched her out of the corner of my eye. I figured I would give her a good talking to when she finally woke up.

Here I am keeping an eye on that ill-behaved Indy.

What do you do when dogs disobey rules and they are bigger than you?

Love, Cinnamon

Save 20% on #SomaPet Supplement This Weekend Only

Remember when I told you about SomaPet, the supplement that makes my fur shiny (at a minimum). 

Well they are offering a killer deal on their product for a very short time. You might want to try some.

SomaPet is offering 20% off plus free shipping through this weekend. That is huge savings and something that you might be interested in taking advantage of. The code is 20PLUS.

Here’s the link!

Cinnamon Loses the Game of Lumpy Balls

Hi, it's me, Cinnamon. I'm here at the Country Cousins' house taking care of the two geriatric dogs. Usually they are pretty easy to fool, they sleep a lot and aren't much trouble at all. But yesterday Indy surprised me. Indy beat me at a game of "Lumpy Balls!"

Lumpy Balls are just that... round balls that have lumps on them. I think the Country Cousins got them on sale or something. They squeak and they throw OK but they fall short in the rolling department. Lumpy Balls.... good for certain games.

So Indy invited me to play a game of Lumpy Balls. The object of the game is to have both the balls in your possession. The dog with the most Lumpy Balls wins the game. Other than that, there are no rules... well, except, no biting!

Here's how things went:

Indy has the yellow and I have the blue. Let the game begin!

This is getting boring already. I wonder who will make the first move?
Maybe she'll just fall asleep and I can grab her ball?

Hey Cinnamon... there's a squirrel over there. Go get it!

Now that was easy! Score 2 for Indy and 0 for Cinnamon!

What? How did this happen? She must have cheated!

Please Indy. Can we try it one more time. Wasn't that just a practice round? Pleeezzz!

So that's how the game went. Indy tricked me! I didn't see that coming at all. I guess there is one benefit to being a geriatric dog... experienced at playing Lumpy Balls!

Love, Cinnamon

A Job for Cinnamon: Dealing with Goose Poop

Here's one of the Geese Guy dogs.
He goes after them in the water!

I was reading the KGW website (because I am bored here taking care of two geriatric dogs) and noticed an exciting new job for ME!

Evidently there is a problem in Portland with geese who are really gross. They poop all over the place, even where humans want to lay down a blanket and enjoy things like concerts.

They are considering using DOGS to deal with the problem. Of course, they are thinking of sheep dogs because everyone thinks they are so smart.

But what about HOUNDS LIKE ME? They are considering hiring Geese Guys because they have a track record in dealing with issues between humans and geese. According to Geese Guys, "one adult Canada goose consumes 3 - 4 pounds of grass and creates 2 to 3 pounds of droppings per day!" What a mess!

This is what a Geese Hound looks like.
Prettier than a Border Collie, right?

So what to do, what to do? I think I need to create a new business.... "Geese Hounds." My houndy friends and I can go crazy chasing away geese. I know we could do that. And we'd be cheaper than the border collies. Aroooo! In fact, if the geese don't bite, I'd do it for free!

Those border collies think they know everything. Just don't get me started!

Meanwhile, I think I'll take a nap and consider my new business venture later.

Love, Cinnamon

Wordless Wednesday: On the Road Again!

Hi: It's me, Cinnamon on the road again... this time in the back seat surrounded by plants. It's like a traveling arboretum, it is!

Can you see me in back of all the plants?

The Big Wedding from a Dog's Perspective

By now you have read about my adventures in Coer d'Alene, Idaho and the tedious road trip. While it was interesting to see the lake, I wasn't interested in wading or swimming. It was hot, over 100 degrees, and I just don't understand what all the fuss was about.

So here's how THE WEDDING was for me, a mere dog:

When we arrived, I asked to go at least see where the wedding was to take place, so we did. We drove into a beautiful resort and down a winding road past golf courses and parked in front of a HUGE event center right on the lake. I saw some people and asked to go have a peek. So we did. IT WAS THE WEDDING REHEARSAL.

They weren't doing much of anything. Just standing there.

I wasn't allowed at that either, despite there being some lush green lawn to roll on. But I got to see the people, including some of MY family. I saw them standing overlooking the lake. They weren't eating, playing games or doing much of anything. All of a sudden I wasn't all that interested in going to the wedding. It looked BORING!

So the next day, I spent most of my time checking out dog parks and taking walks along the beautiful lake. I also, mentally, got ready for the fun I was going to have that evening when my owner was at the BORING wedding.

I had decided to watch movies and order pizza from Domino's (they deliver). I planned to have a triple meat pizza... yum!

So after she got all dressed up and took me for my last walk of the evening, she told me I was staying in the room and had better NOT BARK EVEN ONCE! Well, I was going to be so busy that I really didn't think I needed to bark.

This is the way my owner left me. Don't I look innocent?

As soon as she closed the door, I jumped up on the triple sheeted cushy human bed and reached for the phone. I ordered the pizza. Then I turned on the TV. She had left it on the QVC shopping channel. I tried to switch it to the Pay Per View section so I could order movies but it just wouldn't work... DRAT!

The pizza came and I paid with my owner's credit card. (I have memorized the number). It was delicious!

So I was watching QVC when I figured out I COULD ORDER THINGS BY PHONE! I dialed their 800 number and ordered:

A Sleep Number Adjustable Bed (my dog bed is getting old, anyway)

Some Steaks from Kansas City Steak Company

Wen Pet Shampoo for Dogs

That kept me pretty busy. I'll bet my owner will be surprised when everything is delivered!

By then I was tired. I fluffed up the pillows on my owner's bed, made a coonie nest and went to sleep.

Then I heard the key in the door. She was back! I'm glad I hid the pizza box! I jumped off the bed and stretched, innocently, so she would think I had been sleeping on my travel bed on the floor all evening. She was happy to see me (and thankful I had been so well-behaved)  and brought me some prime rib pieces from the Wedding. PRIME RIB! NOBODY TOLD ME THERE WOULD BE FOOD AT THE WEDDING. Drat!

But I had a pretty good time. Even if I didn't get to go, I wish Cristina and Jace Best Wishes for a long and happy married life.

Love, Cinnamon 

Day #2 at Lake Coeur d'Alene - Dog Park and Blue Green Algae

Here's the new dog park.
It was sandy but at least there was shade!

Well Day #2 at the lake was much better than Day #1. I got up bright and early (dawn, actually) and asked to go outside. It was cool and beautiful. I could smell the moisture in the air. We walked through the quiet neighborhood.

Here's the historic Blackwell House.

Later we got ready for an adventure. We went to the downtown dog park which was brand new. It was shady there and I got to trot around all by myself. We played with sticks and I felt so much better now that it was cooler.

An older couple came and put their dog in the dog park and went over to the tennis courts and played tennis. I thought that was ILLEGAL!

After that we had a SURPRISE! We drove up to this beautiful Victorian home and walked into the back yard. And guess who came out of the house? It was UNCLE TOM, my favorite guy! I was so excited to see him. Some of our family was staying there. I heard there were 16 people in that huge house! I think they were having fun.

We visited for a little while and then went back to the cool motel for some breakfast. This was a great day so far!

Here's the house they were building. I think I'd like to live there!

Then later that morning we got in the car and took a drive on the east side of Lake Coeur D'Alene. It was nice out there... more woodsy and pretty.

I saw a house I might like to have. It had a lake view and was being built up in the woods on top of a bluff. I could picture myself looking out at the lake from one of the windows. Dream on...

The walk was cool and shady when we started out.

So then we stopped at the Centennial Trail and took a little lakeside walk. There were huge motor boats on the lake. It seemed like all the access to the lake was by private dock. There weren't any places for me to go down to a beach and get a drink. It was getting hot again and I was getting THIRSTY!

So then we came to a real beach by a yacht club (or at least I thought it was). But OH NO! There were signs all over saying PRIVATE BEACH - ABSOLUTELY NO DOGS ALLOWED!

Fortunately we saw a sheriff's deputy going down to the marina. We asked her if I might go to the lake for a drink of water. She petted me and said it would be ok if we were quick. (we were). I felt much better after the drink. Then we talked to her. She said to watch where we went because over at Fernan Lake there is BLUE-GREEN ALGAE. A dog went in and died immediately. It is something for dogs to be aware of. Maybe that's why I really didn't want to go swimming in the lake. We told the sheriff's deputy thank you and walked on back to the car.

I was happy to get back to the motel for a cool rest. The wedding was to take place that evening and my owner was making sure I got plenty of exercise before the wedding. (Not because I was invited, mind you... but because I was going to stay in the motel room all by myself for the evening).

Love, Cinnamon the tired Coonie