Pixel Blue Eyes - Her "Tails of Adventure"

The Joy of the Game Part II - Pixel's Football Action Shots

2012-02-05T03:28:00.004-05:00

Here are some of my favorite photos that Mommy took of me when we played football this week, all in honor of SUPER DOG SUNDAY and SUPER BOWL SUNDAY.

A Pre-Game football portrait of me with my official SUPER DOG SUNDAY football.

Listening to my coach for instructions as the game begins. Nothing like a beautiful sunset as we start to play. ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL?!

And we have kickoff. The joy of the game begins for me as I watch that ball fly through the air!

What a catch! I didn't know I could play this well so early in the game.

Another high flying catch. This time I jumped so high to catch that football that I couldn't even fit in the frame! My goodness, this is fun! (and I DID catch that ball...see the very top of the image, there it is.)

Listening as the crowd goes wild!

Wow! The fans are really lovin' my plays, as they have created a collage of my image in the crowd. That makes me feel super special!

Almost....almost. I got it!

The Joy of the Game...written all over my face as I bring the ball in for a touchdown!

Announcer says: "...and Pixel Blue Eyes brings it home again. And the crowd starts chanting 'Pixel, Pixel'!"

Running the ball across the line as I make my final touchdown and win the game. My goodness that was fun! What a wonderful day!

Don't forget to visit my 'Joy of the Game Part I' to see my friend Flurry, a beautiful giant schnauzer mix who needs a forever home real soon. She lives in Texas, and is listed with Pet Finders.

The Joy of the Game - Super Dog Sunday Part I

2012-02-05T01:23:00.002-05:00

~~Pixel's Official Contest Photos Blog Post ~~

It is Super Bowl Sunday here in the U.S. But for dogs and pet bloggers all over the internet, it is SUPER DOG SUNDAY! This specific post is part of a very fun Blog Hop where pet blogs post their most fun football pet photos to share. One cannot help but be excited that there is a contest with prizes awarded by our Fantastic Hosts: ALL THINGS DOG BLOG & DOG TIPPER, but all of this fun is really about supporting the PET FINDER FOUNDATION, who works with shelters, rescue organizations and animal welfare organizations across the country to help ensure that no adoptable pet is euthanized for lack of a good home.

I have two very special football photos to share...

The first one is of myself. The football was supplied by our two hosts a few weeks ago. I have been practicing my best football plays, and Mommy caught the action on camera. Here I am, running as I carry the ball I caught moments before into the 'end zone.' Can you see the dirt & stuff flying up from my paws and my ears flapping as I run? What a fun day it was! You can catch all the cool Pixel football action with lots and lots of photos at this blog link .

This second very special photo is of a superstar named Flurry. Isn't she beautiful? She is a giant schnauzer mix and lives in Texas at the Pasadena Animal Rescue & Assistance shelter. She has the sweetest face, eyes and smile...and she needs a forever home really badly. I can tell she will be lots of fun to play with and cuddle.

I had fun using Image Chef software to give her the superstar display she deserves. I wish I could be friends with her! Why don't you go see her on her Pet Finder's page? Please help her find her forever, loving home, just like I did.

Click HERE to see ALL the amazing Pixel football action photos. They are very fun and full of good plays, if I do say so myself. Love you all! Pixel

The Joy of Spring...Two Months EARLY - (Mostly) Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-01T14:48:00.001-05:00

Wow, it is so pretty outside today Mommy...are you sure it's still winter?

I am sniffin' the air for cold weather...I don't smell anything.

Is that a gold finch singing up there? Do I have something on my chin?

I think I'd better shake off hopes of any more snow this winter.

Let's Go Play!

Won't you please 'Like' my Facebook page and Follow my blog? Both can be accessed to the left of this post. I am also creating a Pixel Friends blog roll based on followers, so come join the fun!!

The Joy of Midnight Snacks with Mommy - Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-25T01:15:00.001-05:00

Mommy, are you awake?

I definitely need a little snack...don't we have Rice Krispie treats?

Oh yeah, smells like your best batch yet!

Mmmmm...this hits the spot perfectly.

Oh my Dog, this is good!

Got a piece stuck in my tooth...Are you having some too?

I love you and midnight snacks Mommy, thank you!!

Happy (Mostly) Wordless Wednesday friends...

The Joy of the First Snow of 2012 - Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-18T10:55:00.004-05:00

There's somethin' in here...

Mommy, can I eat all of it?

Is more snow coming?

Next day...um, Mommy, did I really eat ALL of it?

The Joy of Making a Difference - Adopting a Homeless Pet

2012-01-15T03:48:00.002-05:00

Unconditional Love. Tenderness. Devotion. Joy. Togetherness. Happiness. Comfort. Laughter. Affection. Soul Mates. Forever.

These are just a few of the amazing words and feelings that describe what I share with my Mommy everyday. She adopted me four years ago this February. We are very blessed and we have a wonderful 'blended pet family' of 7 dogs and cats, most of whom have been rescues. However, as I lay here thinking on my own gifts of a great home, I am also thinking of the fact that there are so many pets sitting in a shelter of some kind or another, or living on the streets, with very little time left to experience even one of those feelings. Today, it's time for a change. It is time for us to BE the Change for animals. So today, I, Pixel Blue Eyes, am Blogging the Change for Animals.
There are many great shelters that do everything they can to rescue and adopt out animals with no where else to go, but they need our help so much. Mommy and I have helped raise funds and collect much needed food and comfort items for local shelters in our area, but that only helps these animals for a little while. What these precious souls need more than anything is a forever home. Like what I have. I give to Mommy as much as she gives to me. It is a two way love street. Imagine how it feels to have a sweet, smiling, loving face thrilled beyond belief to see you every single time you walk through the door.
Now...imagine Charlies' story below. Please read it. Think on it. And then find a way to act. I am helping 'Sharing Pet.com' promote a new kind of way to help shelter pets called 'Virtual Adoption', which you can get details for at the right of the screen.

Here is Charlie's story:

Charlie didn’t know why he was in there…he was an old guywho’d had a bad time of it lately. As hesat in his cell, the cold bars and cement floor was no comfort. He was halfblind, hungry, and not sure why things had gone so bad. All he wanted was to beloved. In the last years of your life,you always think, want and expect to have a nice home, family around you andspecial times. Yet here was Charlie,taking in his new small dwelling, no family, no nice warm home, no more specialtimes.

Then, a woman with a kind face came in, holding something.She opened the cold metal door, telling Charlie someone had brought some stufffor him. She put a bowl of food nearbyand placed down a soft looking bed on the cold cement as she coaxed him to comeand try it out. Nervously, Charlie cameover to her, wanting nothing more than to run out that open cell door. He reluctantly laid his old bones down onwhat she had laid out for him. It was soft, not scratchy like so many things he had tried to call a ‘bed’ inthe past. It felt good on his oldbones. Just as he began to relax a bit,she placed a warm blanket over him. What was this…some kind of cruel joke? Why was she being so nice to him? Where did this stuff come from? He took in a deep breath, closed his eyes, and waited for the dream toend. Suddenly, he smelled the warmfireplace that he used to lay by when he was young, he smelled all thatwonderful cooking that wafted from the kitchen that he often snuck into to geta bite of chicken when Mom was making sandwiches, and he could almost feel allthe hugs he used to get from his girl. He opened his eyes quickly and saw the woman still there with him,gently petting his head.

“I know this is not home, but I hope we can make youas comfortable as possible dear boy, until we find you a new home. A forever home,” she said. Charlie realized he was smelling memories from the donated bed and blanket,memories of another that had been loved like he was…but it was more than goodenough for Charlie, because for just a moment, he felt loved, comforted, andjust a bit like he was home.
Be the Change for a dog like Charlie and adopt a homeless pet or 'Virtually Adopt' a pet. Either way, you are making a difference.
Please view the list of other pet blogs below that are supporting "Blog the Change" Day today. Visit them and see how other pups like me are finding the joy of making a difference!

The Joy of Connecting with Others - Thank you Dog Tipper

2012-01-11T22:12:00.002-05:00

What an exciting few days this has been for me! My little tiny tail hasn't stopped wagging all this time. I was honored by the website Dog Tipper to be their featured blog on Tuesday. Mommy and I got the email this weekend and we could not wait. We have been a fan of their site for a while and were able to link up with their dog blog directory. So many wonderful blogs listed there...believe me, I have visited several of them and cannot wait to connect with them somehow.
I think it is important to connect with other people and animals. I mean, we were meant to be together, weren't we? Pets and people go paw in hand. When we connect in something we care about, it makes our day brighter, our hearts lighter, and it can keep us from feeling isolated or alone. And my goodness, hasn't the internet opened the whole world to us? It's amazing!
Before I doggie digress too much, I just wanted to take this time to thank Paris and John at Dog Tipper for being so awesome and for connecting with me. They are real dog lovers extraordinaire! Make sure to visit their site, and don't forget to come back and visit me real soon.

And for instant updates on my blog, silly photos or funny videos (I just posted a power packed Pixel video the other day - see the left side of my blog), please sign up to follow me on Twitter or my Facebook page. Hey, a dog has to stay connected, right?

The Joy of a New Year - Finding Happiness in Life

2012-01-01T13:23:00.001-05:00

The new year always brings the hope of new possibilities, new challenges, and, I think, new opportunities to find happiness in life. Mommy and I don't usually make new year's resolutions, because it often just lends itself to disappointment or unnecessary pressures. I chose a long time ago to try and just have a positive attitude about my life, and let God bless where He will bless, and teach where He will teach. Each one of us has challenges we must face on a daily basis. Because I try to find the joy in everything (that is what a Pixel does!), my struggles usually are about simple things, such as which toy do I play with and run through the house squeaking, do I cuddle on Mommy's right side or her left, and should I wrestle with the cat now or after I eat.

But I have had more serious struggles to deal with in my life as well. My tail was docked without my permission when I was just days old (before Mommy found me and saved me), and so I have had terribly painful difficulties with my tail nub my whole life. Mommy still gets upset at the thought that this maiming could be done to puppies unnecessarily, but she and I have found ways to cope with it and make my life as great as we can. She and my wonderful veterinarian finally found a very helpful nerve pain medicine that has gotten rid of most of the tail pain. But all in all, I don't let that medical issue stop me from being the best dog and friend I can be to my family and others.

Mommy and I saw a story once about a woman that was in a tragic accident and became paralyzed. She had an amazing spirit of perseverance through this life changing challenge, and when asked how she dealt with being paralyzed, she said something like this: "Your life is not determined so much by what life brings to you...but by the attitude that you bring to life. It is not shaped so much by what happens to you, as by the way your mind and heart reacts with what happens to you. DO NOT FOCUS ON WHAT YOU CANNOT DO...FOCUS ON WHAT YOU CAN DO."

To me, that means keep wagging your tail no matter what happens in your life. Keep trying, keep looking at the blessings, gifts and abilities you have, not on the things you do not have. I know I will never have a nice long tail like other dogs, but I have a little tiny nub that I still can wag like crazy every time I see my loved ones. I can still laugh, smile, jump for joy, do lots of cool little tricks and find all the joy that is right in front of me. It sure makes my life happier. My hope for each of us this new year, is to find that happiness in life. Look for it. Seek it out. Hunt it down and cling to it for dear life...just like I do with my squeaky toys. And most important of all, don't forget to share it. Believe me, it is well worth it!

The Joy of Christmas - Celebrating with a Grateful Heart

2011-12-24T05:25:00.001-05:00

Mommy and I had a fun time the other night when she dressed me up and took photos of me by the tree. Now, as I have shared in past stories, I don't always enjoy wearing anything that might possibly be related to a sweater. I will climb under 5 blankets at once, and love to crawl into a fresh pile of clean warm laundry from the dryer...but by golly, wearing one little dress can be a real bother. However, I am so grateful to be with my Mommy and I have such a wonderful home full of love, that I wear the things she occasionally puts on me with a grateful heart. I think of it as one of my gifts to her, a selfless act to put a smile on her face and let her know that I appreciate her.

I think it is important to do little things like this for those we care about and love, as well as doing things for people we do not know. We all have moments of needing someone to be there for us, even if just for a few minutes. For example, Mommy met a very kind gentleman from Russia the other day who was visiting in our area. His car had broken down in a parking lot, and she and some others tried to be of assistance. He was very kind and even gave Mommy a little gift just because she had tried to help him. To me, they both had a grateful heart and took the time to be of a generous nature and step beyond their own self.

At Christmas time, as stated in one of my families most favorite stories, A Christmas Carol, want is often more keenly felt. This blessed holiday is often rushed through by so many people, and the real meaning, the real joy of Christmas is sometimes missed. It would do us all good to seek out moments when we can give to another, even by simply giving a complement, or lending a hand for just a few minutes. We get so overwhelmed by our own insecurities, fears or problems that we can often miss opportunities to make another feel good. In turn it makes our own heart feel lighter when we give of ourselves.
You know, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus and share in celebrating a grateful heart at Christmas, it makes me remember that, while Jesus was on earth as a man, He had little, yet He gave so much. In one moment, He could make a person feel so special, appreciated and lighthearted.

Laughing with Mommy is such a joy!

I know that my choice to be giving to my Mommy by wearing that dress with a grateful heart (even though I was a bit concerned that it would take all my doggie super powers away), Mommy and I had a great time taking the photos she wanted so much. We had some good laughs too. She made me about spit a treat out of my mouth when she made the cat, Noel, jump into the air with a toy! My little loving act of letting her put that dress on me, and even drumming up enough will power to do a trick or two for her, gave us both a light heart and a wonderful celebration of the loving connection we share.

I hope that everyone has a joyous holiday season. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and I hope that the coming new year gives each of us more opportunities to celebrate each day with a joyful and grateful heart. I would love to hear about your own experiences or 'tales' of this type. Just click on 'Comment' below this blog post here and tell me all about it. I will have a special blog post sharing some of the stories!

The Joy of Being Lighthearted II - More Motivational Posters

2011-12-16T23:40:00.000-05:00

With all the negative stuff on the news, I thought it was time for a new round of Pixel Motivational Posters to get some more lightheartedness out there again. Getting motivated can be difficult sometimes for all of us, but it never hurts to keep trying. Sometimes I have a heck of a time getting my Mommy motivated enough to get out of bed at 5am to feed me 3 hours earlier than our agreed upon schedule...it can be so taxing on a mini schnauzer like me, but I keep trying.

Sometimes, being lighthearted means making a bit of fun of yourself, or having a laugh at your own expense, which might make others feel at ease in a tough situation, or just help your own heart feel lighter. Sometimes, if Mommy seems too serious or isn't feeling all that great, I will grab one of my rattle toys (I love rattles!) and run around all crazy begging her to chase me. That is probably why I sometimes have a bad hair day after all play! But I don't care as long as I help Mommy feel more lighthearted.

Sometimes we can be lighthearted as we learn from our mistakes. Mommy and I know all too well the concept of 'biting off more than you can chew'. Once I tried to eat a rawhide that was almost as big as my entire mouth, but Mommy taught me moderation that day, whether I wanted to learn it or not.
And, no matter what, you always have choices, so make sure you make the right choice. If it brings sheer joy, it very well might be the right choice. Mommy teases me because I always seem to find the toy with the rattle in it. Well, if you loved that sound as much as I do, you'd be choosing the rattle toys too!

I originally shared these new motivational posters on my recently acquired Twitter account, www.twitter.com/. I love sharing my little thoughts on life when they come to me, so I hope you decide to become a follower. I promise only joy and joyness will flow from my tweets. You will love it!

If you have any motivational words or ideas I could create a poster for, leave me a comment and let me know! I always love hearing from you.

HAPPY 4th BIRTHDAY PIXEL!

2011-12-06T22:13:00.001-05:00

Pixel's Mommy here. She would be shocked to know that I have a copy of her password to her blog, but I just had to sneak in and say....

Happy Birthday Pixel!!!!!

We will be celebrating her birthday this weekend, but I could not let the day pass without sharing this. Pixel is the sweetest, prettiest, smartest, most talented schnauzer on the planet and it is my honor to be her Mommy. As I watch her sleep right now, her sweet little freckles are peeking through her white fur, and she is just amazing to me. Her wit, her tender "Nurse Pixel" ways, her unconditional love, her need to forever cuddle, the creative games she plays, the many tricks she has 'taught me'...this little dog has brought so much joy to me and I am blessed beyond measure to be hers.

The Joy of Giving Thanks Every Day

2011-11-26T22:23:00.000-05:00

We have had the most wonderful Thanksgiving holiday celebration at my house over the last few days. For me, every day is a day to be grateful for my blessings and my life. Taking time to give thanks is something we all can and should do, everyday. No matter who we are, no matter what our lives are like, there is always something to be thankful for, even when times are especially difficult. It is important for our hearts to find those things to be grateful for, and really let it sink in.

I am so thankful to be with my Mommy, who adopted me almost four years ago. I will never forget the first time I saw her...I had waited for her my whole life! The photo here is of us the day she took me home...I felt so safe. She is my world and I am hers. She is always happy to see me, no matter how she is feeling, and I am the same way with her. It makes life so much more joyful...even when she makes me wear sweaters!

I am thankful for all of my wonderful family, including my Uncle Jessie (the big dog with the sweet smile); my Uncle Happydog (he and I love to goof off together and lay on each other), my funny, pretty cousin Peanut, who strangely enough loves to wear sweaters when I have told her time and again that they sap all our dog powers; my cat sister Noel (our Christmas tree kitten whom I LOVE to wrassle with and take naps with); our sweet orange tabby MeowMeow, and our newest little white kittie named Snowflake, who showed up starving on our back deck and has now moved in as our trouble making foster kitten. She gets into more things than I ever possibly could think up!

We all have fun together with our wonderful human pack, who lovingly spoil us and let all of us little dogs and cats pile on the beds with them. (Jessie lays close by...he is just a little too big to get on the beds.)

Now, as I think on a dog's life and all the things I am grateful for, my mind cannot help but wander back to my excitement and wonderful memories of the holiday feasting we all did. With all that food being prepped, cooked, and eaten...a piece of turkey was bound to fall right in front of me. All of us dogs and cats were raised hearing the amazing stories of the 'mystery piece of turkey or sweet potato' magically falling to the floor while watchful pets anticipate that perfect moment...just waiting to scarf it up. Why do you think we are always under foot in the kitchen? That is the way it is with dogs and cats...we are always thinking and planning our next move.

Anyways, my moment indeed arrived, except my food was on my Mommy's plate and on her FORK! She kept conveniently losing where her fork was...and I took full advantage. She might never admit this...but I am pretty sure she knew the whole time. As I have said...I LOVE my Mommy!

The Joy of Hard Work and Cute Dog Tricks - New Video Starring Pixel

2011-10-07T01:21:00.003-04:00

I was barely 3 months old when I looked my Mommy in the eyes and let her know I was a trick dog. It didn't matter that I didn't know any tricks yet...I just knew it. Maybe I was born to make people smile, or at least try my best to bring more joy...to my family and friends everywhere. I mean, look at this face...maybe I was meant to be right here...sharing adventures on the internet. Who knows? What I do know is that being a trick dog, among other things in my life, is definitely fun and exciting. I have learned some really cool tricks over the years, and I am still taking on more challenges. It does, however, take lots of time, dedication and practice, for both me and my Mommy, who trains me to do them. I know I shared a list of the the tricks I have mastered in an earlier blog post of mine, but I have a video to share that you simply have GOT TO SHARE with everyone you know. It is one of my favorites and will definitely bring a smile to your face.

One of the latest tricks I learned earlier this year was also one of the toughest ones to master. It is called, "How Does A Car Go?" I know, what an incredibly odd name for a trick, but you can blame Mommy for it...I'm just the victim of her creativity. It is a really cool trick and I love doing it, because it makes everyone crack up so hard when I really get it going good, like in the video here (you can also see it on YouTube full screen on my Pixel Blue Eyes channel). Sometimes, if I have had plenty of water to drink, have really practiced a lot and Mommy has some treat or dinner that smells super good or involves peanut butter, I can totally make my voice sound like a really cool car revving its engine.
I practice whenever I can, and I am so glad that I finally got this trick down pat. For some reason, it was just harder than others. It is funny, because there would be times when Mommy would have this peanut butter all over her fingers, asking me in the sweetest voice, "How does a car go? Pixel, how does a car go?" She knew I could do it, and I knew I could do it, but somehow it just would not come. But we kept at it, and when I would have trouble getting it, sometimes she would give me the treat anyways, for moral support and just for trying to make a good effort. She is so patient and has never pushed me, it is always just like a game. Well, for this trick, I just tried and tried and tried, and then one day, I could suddenly just do it like a pro, right on cue. Mommy says that it's the same way with juggling, but I have no idea what that means. As long as I get that peanut butter, I just nod in agreement.
Please leave a comment and let me know what you think of my hard work and efforts to 'make a car go'.
And please, I would love to have you follow me on Twitter. Lots of fun things to share as only a Pixel can! Just click the twitter button on this page (you can't miss it..big blue bird), which takes you to my Pixel Blue Eyes page, and then click the 'Follow' button. Then you can share in my sage words of advice, or just listen when I rant about the cat!

The Joy of Making a Difference - Finding Hope in Times of Tragedy

2011-08-06T23:13:00.004-04:00

Pixel Blue Eyes is back from a much too long hiatus. It feels so good to get back into sharing my 'tails of adventure' again. This 'tail' is a bit different than my other ones. See, my sweet family and I have had some pretty intense events happen in our lives in the last few months, and that is why I have been amiss for a while. One of the biggest things to occur was on April 27-28, 2011. Although that was a few months ago, this is an important 'tail' to tell...of finding hope in a time of tragedy.

It was the night when horrible tornadoes tore through several states including Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, and our wonderful Appalachian mountains of southwest Virginia. They came within miles of our house. They say it was the biggest tornado outbreak in U.S. history, and there was a bunch of them. My family and I spent most of the night in the basement, with me inside my 'puppy pouch' that Mommy wears so I can be right there with her. Now, understand that it was 4 humans and 6 dogs and cats all crammed into a smaller-than-comfortable area. We spent hours down there. Mommy kept getting weather updates on her cell phone and it kept giving us tornado warnings. It was really scary. I just hid my face while Mommy cuddled me. I know a lot of families did the same thing that night. That phone kept beeping at us and everyone seemed really nervous. Even after we all went back upstairs after midnight, my mommy and I stayed up most of that fateful night scared of what we heard outside, as the tornadoes created a massive path of tortuous devastation right near our home.

Our neighbors and surrounding communities were hit HARD. The morning after the tornadoes, it was like a horror show for mass destruction. The interstate had cars and tractor trailers strewn like dog bones and toys because the local truck stop was right in the path of one of those tornadoes. Houses were absolutely gutted, there were roofs torn off of buildings, businesses were reduced to rubble, not to mention all the siding, insulation and large metal pieces of buildings that were wrapped around bent, twisted, torn apart trees. Mommy says it was like the trees were just snapped in two. Some people and pets in our area died that night. It was an absolute nightmare.

Mommy and I, our family and hundreds of people all around our area went into immediate action to help out. People started collecting food, water, basic need supplies, pet supplies, just anything that would help the dear victims who lost everything in mere minutes. People opened up their homes and hearts in wonderfully selfless ways. Mommy helped coordinate part of the relief efforts at her work place. She took care of the collections for the pet food and supplies that were so desperately needed, and I helped her with ideas of things that dogs and cats might find comfort in during such a difficult time. It was a real joy to find ways to make a small difference for people and pets who had lost so much.

We have been supporting the local animal shelter closest to the devastation, which is run by a truly caring group of people, and have also been supporting and working with a wonderful non profit group called Saving Furry Friends...talk about the perfect name! No doubt as to what their mission is! Right after the tornadoes, they assisted in finding lost pets, horses and livestock and found temporary shelters for them. They helped reunite pets and their loved ones - people who lost everything found hope with those wonderful reunions. Saving Furry Friends and our local shelters have done so much to help the little animal victims in our community. They spend their days rescuing and caring for abandoned pets, giving them much needed medical attention, shelter, food, and love. They strive to find good, loving homes for pets to start a new life and family to thrive in, just like I found with my Mommy.

The entire community where we live rushed in to help and even though it has been almost 3 months since the tornadoes, they haven't slowed down yet. Neighbors helping neighbors, church groups have helped from far and wide, and people who lost their homes still jumped in to assist with the cleanup of the neighborhoods. Even complete strangers have shown up, ready to help out and make a difference. People have donated building supplies, dog houses, grocery stores came into the hardest hit areas with truckloads of water and food. Everyone found ways to help each other out, and they were the better for it. My own veterinary clinic that has taken care of me for years also helped a lot of the hurt and injured pets that became victims of the tornado too! I am so proud to live where I do.
It has been almost three months now since the tornadoes happened. The national news has moved on to other stories, but you can still see the path of devastation when you drive down the highway. But things are getting better. Homes are getting rebuilt, roofs are being replaced, and by golly, the Glade Spring veterinary clinic already has a new building! It has been quite an experience. Remember that truck stop I mentioned that got hit directly? Well, it is back open now and business is booming!
Mommy and I still get a little nervous if a bad storm comes our way, but we know that no matter what, we will be okay. We found that the best way to deal with tragedy, whether you are the victim or not, is to reach out. No matter how bad things might seem, they will get better. They have to...and we can help each other make it happen. It doesn't matter if you are big or small, together we can all make a difference.

The Joy of Being Lighthearted in Life

2011-03-19T02:13:00.001-04:00

I think I might be a rock star...
Mommy says that my first record album cover is going to be the funny, highly stylized image to the right. Never mind the fact that I don't have a band, a record deal, or that the record itself (based on this image) would be oddly shaped in a long rectangle! Obviously, my Mommy really knows how to be lighthearted and silly, a very valuable lesson that she started teaching me from way early on. (Evidently, my Mommy also likes to play with photos of me on her computer, but that is beside the point.)

Mommy made these funny 'Motivational' posters to illustrate the point of taking most any situation and finding the lighthearted side of it. I have had many a time that I was scared, sad, sick or just feeling down and Mommy will scoop me up and give me a hug, take me outside for a bit of playtime, or bring me my favorite treat to put a little romp in my step. I guess it has rubbed off, because I have done the same for her. She has had times when she was frustrated, feeling down, or having a difficult time with something, and I will bring her a toy to play with, do a little dance like only a Pixel can do, or just go up and cuddle with her.

And, as is overwhelmingly evident, I let her take photos of me no matter what silly situation I get myself into. Mommy says to find the positive in a situation, whenever possible, and it will help you find perspective. Sometimes that is easier said than done when the evil lawnmower is coming to get you, but I think I get the point!

Now, sometimes life can be tough, and there will always be those times when lighthearted is just not going to happen, and annoyance sometimes ensues, but we do our best. That is why having family and friends can be so helpful and wonderful. I have the most awesome dog/human pack ever and they get me through those times until I can be lighthearted again. See, even a Pixel Mixel can have a bad day...

Success at being lighthearted in life is an ongoing process, but I think it is a mindset I choose to live by. After all, I AM a blogging mini schnauzer...how much more lighthearted can you be?? I suppose my steps to lighthearted success would be to:
1. Find joy in the little things, like rawhide, a cuddly soft blanket, snow falling and paper towel rolls.
2. Practice 'Random Acts of Kindness' - Look for ways to be kind and do for others, no matter how you feel, and do it whenever you can.
3. Laugh at yourself. Take funny photos.
4. Play. Just do it!
5. Volunteer...at a dog shelter, at a people shelter, at a retirement home, at a hospital. Remember, lightheartedness can be catching...

Now, about my rock star status....would you buy the album if I did make one?

The Joy of Making New Friends - Part I

2011-03-07T00:28:00.005-05:00

Friendship is a gift that can sometimes come in unique packages. My 'Tails of Adventure' have taken me down several roads over the last three years, however, the path to my current adventure in friendship was very unexpected...and has been well worth the journey. I have always been the youngest member of my pack, so I always knew where I stood and had made friends with the whole family all at once.
Well, all that changed two days before Christmas...

On December 23, 2010, my Mommy and I went outside to feed the birds on the back deck. It was about 26 degrees and a snow storm was coming. We have always cared for the little wild birds. And as I always strive to be a good service dog to those in need, I go out with my Mommy every time to help her feed them. Well, my Mommy suddenly said, "Oh my goodness, there is something in our tree!" She thought it might be a bird of prey, and was ready to go chase it off. Well, when she went round the tree to get a better view, she saw a little kitten's face! It was about 20' up that huge maple tree caught in a nook and unable to get herself down.

Well, Mommy sprung into action to try and save that little soul. She called everyone she could think of: the police, the animal shelters, animal control, our neighbors. No one would come or was home to get that little kitten down from that tree! Mommy tried to lure it down with some kipper snacks, and I offered to help eat them so that they would look really yummy, but the kitten was NOT interested. Finally, our neighbor came home and Mommy kindly talked him into climbing a ladder to rescue the kitten down before it froze to death. We were not going to let that little soul freeze overnight! Much to everyone's surprise, after such an ordeal she was still incredibly grateful and gentle. We made her a huge bed for her in a big crate, with all she would need in it to be comfortable, and had her warm and cozy in no time. We all thought we would find her a good home, but the kitten thought our home was just right. By the next day, she had stolen everyone's heart (okay, all the human's in my family) and sure enough, she found her forever home. They named her Noel, our little Christmas tree gift from heaven.

Now understand, that because she was a stray, I was not allowed to meet her for several weeks. First, she was quarantined through Christmas, until we could get her to our family vet, and then she was treated for a respiratory infection. Once she was all well from that, Noel was brought up into the main part of the house and stayed in a crate on a small table while she recovered from being spayed.

Everyday I watched our new kitten Noel, not really understanding it all at first, but still very curious. "Would she be friendly? Would she like me? Could we be friends? And would she let me have all her toys and eat her cat treats??" It was these important questions that ran through my mind as I watched her throughout the days. I noticed that she and I actually look a bit alike, with similar coloring on our fur, and I found that to be especially interesting. We both have white stomachs, with brown (chocolate) markings on our head and back...I guess we had different mothers together!

I tried talking to her and we did interact some - she would give me an occasional meow and I howled in response, asking that they "let her out early for good behavior." Mommy caught some of my asking on video, and she put it on my "Pixel Blue Eyes" Youtube channel that is linked in the upper right corner of my blog page...you can see it here too. I even wore a SWEATER for the film!
Noel's and my first interaction (with her at eye level) did finally occur, and you can see THAT video by clicking on my video links here on my blog, as well. The adventure of just getting to meet Noel took a while, and I will soon share more of how our friendship has grown over the last month. Things have definitely gotten more interesting since we found and saved our Noel...she has indeed become a new friend, and I have moved up the 'pecking order' in our little dog pack too! I never thought I would have a younger 'pup' that I needed to show the ropes to, but things change in life, don't they! As long as you can see the joy in new changes and challenges, life can be pretty exciting! Stay tuned for more stories and videos on the joy of making friends with Noel...
And please leave a comment and let me know what you think about making new friends, the photos & videos I have shared, or particular 'Tails' I have blogged about. I always love to hear from my friends!

The Joy of Taking Action for Causes You Believe In

2011-02-12T17:24:00.001-05:00

You know, my Mommy and I try to do all we can for those that we know are in need. As you have read in previous Pixel 'Tails,' one of my many skills is nursing. I love caring for my loved ones and being there for them at a moment's notice, helping them through difficult times, and just being there, as only a Pixel can be. Well, I have made friends along the way who also serve those that they care for. They work tirelessly day and night to help and support those in need, be it family, friend or ones they don't know...and they are even CERTIFIED to do it! I am talking about my fellow animals who are certified service and therapy animals...did you know they even have service miniature horses? Now THAT is cool!! These wonderful friends go to hospitals, nursing homes, or work directly with one person who needs assistance, doing things like helping them go to the store, or cross the street, or any number of other things to help their humans have the best life possible. I must say, I really admire my fellow animal friends for being such a good help to our wonderful human friends.

My mommy and I have a friend who runs the Canadian Registry of Therapy and Service Animals, CRTASA, and they have launched an important petition to help support a Centralized Registry for Therapy and Service Animals in Canada and the USA and to establish a Universal Photo Identification Card for Therapy & Service Animals. With so many different certified locations, and so many different ID cards for service animals, it is sometimes hard to keep track of everyone. I think that having one super cool centralized ID card would be great! It would help all the stores and businesses in all areas of the country better be able to identify those wonderful service animals, no matter where they might be from. My Mommy has already signed this very important petition, and I hope you will join me in supporting it too.

Here is a word from our friend Maxine, the President of CRTASA:
"Please sign this petition and share it with your associates to help us reach our goal of 5,000,000 signatures. We care deeply about this cause, and hope you will support our efforts to opening Society's Doors and Minds to Service Animals across North America."
Canadian Registry Therapy Animals and Service Animals Support CRTASA's Registry of Therapy & Service Animals: http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/913/918/347/
From one dog who serves others to all service animals and therapy animals and animal lovers, I urge you to help make a difference for those around you. As I start training to get my official therapy dog certification, I could use your support in my efforts, by helping this national registry become a reality. You never know, I might someday be visiting a hospital near you!

The Joy of Learning New Dog Tricks

2011-01-23T22:51:00.005-05:00

Ever since I was a little, little pup, Mommy has had this thing about me learning new stuff. It makes sense, I suppose, because she was in school (learning stuff) when we first found each other, so why not get educated too. I mean, we DID get our bachelor's together, and besides...how else could I do this blog when Mommy's at work? I used to help her on projects and was even in a few of them, like the movie she did for an advertising campaign she worked on. I was very good in it, even though I was just a puppy...but I digress...
The way we/she teaches me is that she takes something I do on my own, and 'trains' me to do it on command. I am not sure if she really knows that I am training her, but whatever helps her feel good. We always have a blast working on them. She gets sooooo excited each time I do something and I get lots of praise and a little treat for it. The first photo here shows me doing my 'sneer' trick.

My newest trick (I think this will make #14) is called, "How does a car go?" My mom flips out every time I do it now...she asks me the question and, after giving the treat she is holding a good 'BOLT' stare, I make a couple of low pitch "grrrr's," just like an engine running! Mommy goes crazy with praise every time I do it, and I LOVE that!! It took me a while to train Mommy to do it right...haha, but I think we have mastered it now. I usually like to throw in another of my tricks, like a 'sneer' or a 'whisper', before I 'make the car go' but I only make her wait for a few seconds before I let loose!
She says her secret to teaching me is to make a word or action for something I do, like a sneeze, and say it or do it every time the pup does it. So every time I sneezed, she would say or do the command and give me a treat and praise. Pretty soon I would associate a good thing with me sneezing, then I would do it to 'get' the treat or praise. Some things took longer than others for me to learn, for example, the 'How does a car go?' took a long while, but patience is a wonderful thing they say. And she never made me do it or pressured me...it has always been just a fun game. That is the best way to learn I say!

I suppose I should list my skills in case anyone is curious, so here are all the tricks that Pixel Blue Eyes can do:

Sit
Sneer
Smack (high five)
Sneeze
Whisper
Ask (Paw on your knee)
Twirl (Pirouettes galore!)
How does a car go?
Kiss (Dog lick on the face)
Kiss (Mouth touch)
Down (lay down)
Catch
Wait
Praise the Lord (Arms go up in a full wave)

I can also take your pulse and do other nursing skills, since I am a nurse Pixel, but that is more second nature and a very important job, not just a parlor trick.
Now, does anyone have ideas for my next trick to learn? Only clean fun tricks that a 13 pound dog can do. Please leave a comment with your idea, I would love to hear it! Also, I promise to get some videos up soon...if Mommy can only find where she put them..

The Joy of Waiting for Santa Paws!

2010-12-22T00:42:00.009-05:00

What an exciting time the last few weeks have been. Christmas is almost here and we have had snow for weeks! You would think that it has been winter for a month, instead of today being the first day of winter.

I love watching the snow fall, and I love Christmas time! My family always takes off a few days from work so we can be together.

My Auntie got me this bright red sweater, promising I would love how soft it was. Mommy said how pretty I would look in it, so I thought it only fair to wear it and pretend like my super dog powers were NOT sapped out by the newest member of my kryptonite sweater collection.

My cousin Peanut got a red sweater too, but she really likes them for some reason. She actually GAINS power when she gets to wear a sweater, she gets all excited and starts doing this really cool dance. I don't understand it, but as long as she is happy...

I also don't understand why she never seems to get snow on her face, like I always do. I think it is my feminine scruffles...I make it look good on a girl!

Well, I am sure Santa Paws has something wonderful in store for us on Christmas morning. We are both good girls...most of the time. And I do wear my sweaters like a good girl should...

In the meantime, I will just enjoy each day with my Mommy and family, hang out in my doggie bed bag (it is one of the neatest ways to snuggle!), try my best to hide from kryptonite sweaters, and wait for Santa Paws. Oh, and I will share some more snow 'tails of adventures' real soon too! We certainly are getting our winter wonderland share this year!

I hope you enjoy each day as it comes too!! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you all.

The Joy of Pixel's Birthday!

2010-12-07T00:29:00.004-05:00

Today is my 3rd birthday and nothing would make me happier than to hear from you! This is my Mommy's birthday sign to me...pretty sweet huh! You know, I don't feel a day over two!

The Joy of Caring for Those You Love

2010-12-02T22:25:00.008-05:00

After another long hiatus from sharing my many tails of adventure, Pixel Blue Eyes, a.k.a. Pixel Mixel, is back! A lot has happened in my life in this year of 2010, but the last few months have taught me about what is most important.

Something you might not yet know about me, is that I am not only a trick dog, but I am also a NURSE. I am constantly attending to the needs of those around me, sensing when they might not be well, and administering my special blend of love and affection. But my nursing skills were SERIOUSLY put to the test recently.

It started when my Mommy had major cervical spine surgery and had to be cared for and watched every single day for many weeks. I laid by her day and night, following her if she dared walk around the house, and I helped her eat her pureed mushy food (lovingly made by her Mommy!) until she could swallow better.

A few weeks after her surgery, my Mommy's Daddy had a heart attack, which was scary and horrible. He was in the hospital for days, but I was able to help the family through that as best I could. Then right after Daddy was safely home, my uncle Happydog, a dachshund with back issues, had a terrible episode with his back and had to be hospitalized too! My goodness, my nursing skills were really put to good use!

As they all recovered, I helped by entertaining them with my new tricks, bringing them balls and toys so we could play (er, I mean have therapy), checking their feet constantly (I am a foot expert and can check temp and pulse better that way), and being close by for naps and cuddle hugs at a moment's notice.

My whole family has been incredibly blessed though...God brought us through it all. We celebrated Thanksgiving with incredibly grateful hearts for the gift of one another and the love we share. Yes, caring for those you love can be one of the greatest joys ever! The love you give is one of the most important things you can do.

The Joy of a New Year (and a new decade!)

2010-01-03T17:23:00.005-05:00

Happy New Year everyone! I must say that I had the best Christmas and New Year holiday with my family. Santa Paws was especially wonderful to me, but I will share all about that later. I know the photo of me in a DRESS is quite shocking indeed, since they are closely related to sweaters, but I have made a couple of New Year's resolutions, and fighting through the kryptonite qualities of doggie clothing is one of them. Now, I still lose some of my Pixel super powers when some kind of clothing is thrust upon me, but I posed real pretty for my Mommy because I know she loves that doggone dress on me. I did it for her...and that is what one of my resolutions is, to try to do more for those I love. Just little things...like wearing that dress for 10 minutes.

My other resolution is to be myself as much as possible, and do things that I love as well, like chewing on rawhide as though it's a cigar! There is nothing quite like the aroma of smoked bacon on my favorite blanket after chewing on one of these things for 30 minutes!
I hope everyone has a fantastic start to the new year, and remember, learn a few new tricks along the road to life, and good things can happen, especially if dog bones are involved.

The Joys of Snow by Pixel

2009-12-21T19:34:00.011-05:00

I absolutely love snow!! It just snowed here in the mountains for a second time in December, and I had so much fun!! We usually just go out to play in it on our back porch, because it is safer since we live on such a steep mountain side. But snow is snow, no matter where you go! (Oh, my, did I just rhyme?)
I even let Mommy put a sweater on me, as long as she doesn't expect any tricks to be done, and as long as it is ONLY for being in the snow. My video for 'Trouble with Sweaters' is no laughing matter!!

The snow is so pretty to look at as it is falling. My Mommy and I love to watch the snow fall together. She says that snowflakes are amazingly detailed works of art, like little pieces of lace sent from heaven. And I must say, the snow tastes really good, too! Mommy says not to eat the yellow snow though...I wonder why?

Sometimes my cousin and uncles go out to run around with me in the snow. We just jump and run back and forth and bark a thousand times...I think everyone should do that when it snows! The pretty pomeranian is my cousin Peanut...she loves to eat the snow too! And she barks loudest of all of us. We have so much fun together! Notice that I got out of wearing a sweater in this photo.

Mommy threw a few snowballs at me and I finally caught one and tried to eat it...haha, she can't throw that one at me anymore. She tried to get it back, but I was too ninja fast - I showed her! Now, if I only knew how to make one and throw it at Mommy...

The Trouble with Sweaters by Pixel

2009-12-12T19:10:00.013-05:00

My Mommy is always trying to get me to wear sweaters during the cold months. It gets freezing here in the mountains - icy and snowy and windy - and I know she is just trying to keep me warm. Now, intellectually, I understand this, because I have delicate pink skin and can easily get cold. I have worn puppy tees and sweaters since I was a baby pup, but I think I am becoming allergic to them! Let me tell you about sweaters - they are like kryptonite to me!

For some reason, they make me super weak and all my super dog trick powers disappear! Did you ever see the movie, "Bolt," about the super power dog and his adventures? (By the way, he is one of THE BEST Hollywood dogs ever!!) At one crucial point in the film, he finds out that styrofoam saps all his super powers and whenever he is near it he cannot do his super dog tricks. It is just like what kryptonite does to Superman when he is near it!

Well, that is what sweaters do to me! This phenomenon has gotten gradually worse with each wearing of a sweater for me!! It is horrible, let me tell you. My Mommy video taped what happens as evidence. In the video tape shown at the beginning of this blog post, she started with having me perform a few of my simpler tricks that I do, which are 'smack' (a high five), 'snear' (I give a really good snarly face!) and 'whisper' (a bark with no sound). She has me do each one several times, which isn't a problem at all...until she puts 'The Sweater' on me.

As soon as I am wearing a sweater, something happens that I cannot explain - I suddenly cannot perform ANY of my tricks! As Mommy video taped me with the sweater on, I could barely walk and no matter how many times she said, 'smack' 'snear' or 'whisper,' I could NOT do them. All I could do was get a twitch in my lip, give sad little dog looks and stare helplessly as ALL strength was sapped from me. I could barely even chew a rice cake treat!

Finally, she took the sweater off again and I gained all my super powers back, making me feel much better. Let me tell you, that was a close call! I guess I was just born to be FREE.

The Trouble with Hairbrushes

2009-12-10T19:35:00.007-05:00

Mommy always says that it's important to brush your hair to keep it pretty and healthy. But I'm not as keen to that idea as she is. I like the actual feel of the brush running through my hair, but sometimes the bristles are a bit much, so I am always squeamish about it. And I swear, sometimes that thing comes out of nowhere, sneaking up on me when I least expect it!

I usually try my intimidating stare technique on the brush, just like Bolt does in his movie. I am merely trying to keep the brush in line and to make sure that it knows I will only put up with so much.

But just when I think I have outsmarted it, Mommy scoops me up (usually after I have gotten into something sticky!) and brings THE BRUSH out and starts fussing over me.

I am stealthy, however, and I occasionally get my revenge on the irritating brush. I can sneak up on that brush just as well as it sneaks up on me...take that!

Trouble with Food Bags

2009-11-21T16:24:00.006-05:00

Oh, my goodness...Mommy just found the cutest baby pictures of me! They were taken the day she brought me home. Wow, I was getting into stuff and making a 'tail' of adventure on day one?! Well, I am the Pixel. I guess I was born adventurous...what do you think?

At least I tried to clean it up...relatively speaking. I have never been one to throw away a perfectly good kibble!

The Trouble with Baths

2009-11-14T23:48:00.008-05:00

Did you know that there is no word for 'Bath' in dog language? We are forced to know the concept well from our dear persons, but I am pretty sure they thought the whole thing up just so they can catch us looking like wet rats for their amusement! Case in point...does this look like fun to you??

I am just saying. Well, if you will notice, I did find a way to get back - see how incredibly wet my Mommy's shirt is? Heeheee! She got drenched...I was just trying to help her out, because after all, misery LOVES company. I'll tell you what, those things are just miserable, but I sure feel good after I am all dry!

The Trouble with Time Passing

2009-08-28T00:29:00.011-04:00

My goodness, I cannot BELIEVE it has been over a year since I entered a blog post here. What a slacker! Actually, I have been very busy all this year, mostly good stuff, but a couple of not so good things happened too. I was sick for a little while, then my mommy was sick, then she got a new job and has been working real hard to buy me pretty things I hate wearing...tails on that adventure coming soon...

But seriously, my life has been full of activity since last posting. I have learned so many new tricks...and my Mommy falls for them every time! I can do all of the following things on command without fail...sneeze, smack a high five, kiss, whisper (yeah, really!), sneer my teeth in a fake growl, sit, catch a ball and...wait for it...do single and double twirls while standing on my back legs. I have just begun doing combo tricks, like sneering my teeth while twirling, or sneezing and giving a high five at the same time. Hey, I gotta keep it fresh, right?

Here is a shot of me practicing my smack routine with my mom. Don't worry, I promise to be better at sharing all my adventures with you...including...horror of horrors...a bath!!

Trouble with Sticky Flags

2008-09-13T16:30:00.016-04:00

I am always investigating my home, looking for fun and interesting things to play with and explore. A recent adventure of mine occurred when I found this amazing package of multicolored sticky flags. Of course, I didn't know they were sticky until I got into them.

These things were fierce! I just wanted to play, but they got all over me, like a little army of ants.

The more I tried to get them off of me, the more they stuck. I just kept biting and chewing them, but more kept on coming!

Mommy caught me during my adventure and laughed hysterically. I didn't find it as funny, but I sure was relieved after she helped get those suckers off of me. The only thing is...she still made me replace the destroyed sticky flags with money from my pretty dress allowance. Sheesh! I thought exploration was a good thing.

Trouble with T.P.

2008-09-03T22:54:00.007-04:00

When I was a young and inexperienced 3 month old, I made a very interesting, and I thought helpful, discovery...toilet paper. I know this looks bad, but I was merely trying to clean up after myself...I am a puppy you know!

Things just got a bit out of hand. No opposable thumbs makes it very difficult to create a nice cushion of pillowy softness for cleaning up stuff.

I promise, I wasn't enjoying it...okay, maybe just a little bit. Alright, you've got me, it was a blast!! I especially liked seeing just how far I could run without the long stream breaking.

My giant big brother Jessie was overwhelmed by my antics, and he tried to act nonchalant as I ripped that paper to shreds right beside him. But the more I shred, the more there was!

As I pondered the experience, I realized what I needed to do in the future...EAT the paper. That way, evidence is long gone...yeah, that's it!

One good adventure and lesson down, many, many more to go...wait til I tell you about sticky flags!!

Pixel Welcomes Her Viewers

2008-09-02T23:43:00.000-04:00

Hi there! I am so glad you have found my site. I am a 9 month old miniature schnauzer who loves to discover new things in my world. I occasionally find myself in unusual situations, so I have begun documenting my life's adventure to share with you.

People often say how easy us dogs have it, and that is often very true, but we do have our share of troubles, let me tell you. So, I hope I can shed a little light on the subject by sharing my puppydog adventures...enjoy!

Stay tuned for lots of photos as I chronicle my journey...and please come back and visit anytime!