Mocha Blog

Jogging

2006-03-09T22:15:00.000Z

Minion Grace took me for a jog last night. She's very unfit because it wasn't really that much of a jog. More like an intermittent jog/walk. I think I had better bring her back to the Minion factory to get her fixed or replaced with a better model that can keep up with my running. I especially liked it when we got up to speed and I could splash through the deep puddles.

Puppy that Cooks

2006-03-07T10:10:00.000Z

I am so tall now that I can grab things quite easily off the kitchen worktops (if they are nearish the edge though). This morning apart from the usual inventory of chewable things in the kitchen (oven gloves, tea towels, toys I've left lying around, etc) I noticed something sticking out over the edge of the counter. It was a wooden spatula and it smelt like what the Minions had for dinner last night (tacos, if my smell and taste buds serve me right). It was very tasty even though there wasn't much food left on it. I brought it upstairs and chewed the edges off it. Minion Grace was not impressed when she saw the splinters everywhere.

I killed my mini rugby ball too. It was only about a week old but I loved it none the less. At first there was only a little tear at the seam, so I tried to sew it back together by using my teeth to punch some holes in it. The more I tried to fix it, the more it fell apart. I decided that I would need to get some of the stuffing out of it, so that the material would be looser to work with. However the whole lot fell out and I couldn't stuff if back in. Note to self: if it's broke don't try to fix it. Note 2 to self: Empty balls don't roll or bounce!

Skype Puppy

2006-03-03T21:28:00.000Z

The Minions have signed up to Skype so now I can talk to my friends on the phone. Tonight I spoke to my cousin Dyslexia in Australia (we're not actually related in terms of species, but Dyslexia belongs to Minion Grace's brother). I squeaked and howled a bit, and I think Dyslexia mewed and purred a bit. He/She/It sounded a bit angry though. I think it's Minion was biting it to make it speak, or maybe because it was very early in the morning there.

Broken Frisbees

2006-03-01T21:05:00.000Z

It's been snowing again and I cannot play with my friendies in the pond as it has iced over. The Minions found me some new frisbees. They appeared overnight in the buckets by the shed. Especially good seeing as Minion John threw the last frisbee (the one I got free from the vets) over the fence last week - grr! So they threw the new frisbee for me to chase, but when it landed it broke, and also it was very cold and slippery. I tried to pick the big bits up and return them to the Minions to throw again but by the time I got back to the Minions, the bit of frisbee had disappeared. V confused.

Minion John bought me a new orange frisbee from Tescos afterwards as penance for being mean and taunting me with trick ice frisbees.

I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles

2006-02-22T22:26:00.000Z

Minion Grace had a bubble bath today (she needed it - so smelly). I went into the bathroom and saw that there was something white and frothy that looked tasty so I stood against the edge of the bath and ate it. Mmm it was tasty but there wasn't much texture and it kept disappearing too quickly. Minion Grace was unimpressed to find me eating her bubbles - not my fault that they don't have locks on the doors or proper catches!

Call the RSPCA

2006-02-14T13:52:00.000Z

It's Valentines Day today. Not only do I not have a special friend but my Minions ABANDONED me all day.

They left for work and then when the sun went down they didn't come back. They ALWAYS come back and play in the garden with me. Dinner time came and went. Where was my dinner. A beautiful pup like me needs her dinner. I was so hungry I had to chew some pencils I found on the floor. Bed time came and went too so I put myself to bed and caught some zzz. I was worried that maybe the Minions might not come back at all.

Eventually the Minions returned at 11:30!!! How inconsiderate, leaving me by myself and then when I finally got to sleep waking me up to play. They gave me more food and I got to sleep upstairs on their bed.

[update: i wondered why they had given me 2 breakfasts this morning. Note to self - next time 2 breakfasts are laid down then I must run to the front door and stop the Minions from leaving.]

Happy 1/2 Birthday To Me

2006-02-12T22:47:00.000Z

It was my 1/2 Birthday today. Minions gave me some special doggy choc chip cookies (they were very big and especially good for hiding in shoes). We went for a walk and I found a new friend. I was happy just trotting along with this other dog. The Minions were whistling away trying to get me to come back to them...ha... like I'd show obediance to them in front of other dogs (would never live it down). After a while though the Minions were out of sight and I wasnt' sure whether to turn around or keep going. Eventually the Minions caught up and snared me back on the lead by promises of treats. Wasn't allowed off the lead again -humph.

New (old) Toy

2006-02-07T20:21:00.000Z

Minion Grace gave me a bath today. After my blow dry and manicaure/pedicure (pawicure??) I noticed that a new toy had appeared. Minion Grace was dangling it behind me. It was white, fluffy and sort of swished when it moved. I chased it and chased it but everytime it kept hiding behind me.

Eventually I caught it - and it hurt me. It must have bitten me. So I chased it again (but this time going round the other way - maybe I can catch it out). I caught it again, but it made me go off balance and fall over. I bit it harder this time.... then I realised it was my own tail!!! Wow my tail has grown. No more can anyone call me rat tail, I have a beautiful palm frond tail.

[Other News: I have progressed from the smallest setting on my collar to the next hole along]

Tricks in Public

2006-02-04T20:27:00.000Z

Minions took me to a big field to run around. They brought my Tanzania ball (a bit like a chocolate orange with every other segment missing - and made of purple rubber) and frisbee to play with. They got me all excited and threw my toys for me to fetch....

...stupid Minions. I only do those tricks at home to amuse myself. You wouldn't catch me doing tricks in public, especially not in front of other doggies! I wouldn't be able to bear the shame of it. I control the Minions, not the other way around.

Teaching a Young Dog New Tricks

2006-02-03T23:27:00.000Z

I am learning plenty of new tricks. My immense brain gets so bored that I must humour my Minions and learn their commands to entertain myself. Here's my report card for the first 1/2 of my year:

Good tricks
- Sit
- Stay
- Come on whistle
- Fetch toys
- Drop said toys
- Shake paws/hands
- Do business (not really a trick, but I can go more or less on command if I need to)

Could do better
- Stay command when Minions have walked more than 5 m away
- Catching frisbee before it hits the ground (I almost had it today but it hit me on the head a few times)

Fail
- Lie down (I still have no idea what the Minions want me to do here!)
- No jumping on plates/laps while Minions are eating

Overall Grade : B+

Doggy Friends

2006-01-29T19:37:00.000Z

The Minions took me to Outwoods today for a stroll. I met so many other doggies and their Minions. I met a couple of mini schnauzers that we the same size as me and we enjoyed running circles round our Minions legs. I ran away from a group of very excited Jack Russell/Corgis. A big German Shepherd who scared me and made my squeak. There was a big Old English Sheepdog (at least that's what the Minions told me, but it looked a bit like a cross between a sheep and a panda). He was so big that I could hide under his legs.

It's hard to believe that we are all one species.

Super Tall Puppy

2006-01-28T09:46:00.000Z

Look how tall I am now!! With the aid of Minion Grace's kitchen step I can steal things off the edge of the counter.

The Minions were very confused at how the oven gloves kept ending up in my bed until they saw my latest trick!

Just Call Me Andrex

2006-01-27T10:21:00.000Z

What does an early riser puppy like me do when her Minions are lazy and won't wake up to play? I was wandering around the house chewing here and there. Suddenly there was a bit of a gust and this bit of paper wafted at me. It MOVED hence it was open season.... I grabbed it and tried to kill it but it kept chasing me and wrapping around me. I pulled and pulled and bit but it kept coming. Eventually it stopped moving and I knew that I had triumphed.

The Minions were very unimpressed when they woke up and found the toilet paper unravelled all over the landing!!!!

Evil Evil Geese

2006-01-20T21:17:00.000Z

Minion Grace took me to Charnwood Water for a walk after work. As soon as we got there those evil geese were there taunting me again. So I chased them...

... suddenly it was a bit cold and wet. The ground was so dense with geese, ducks, coots and swans all consipiring together that I couldn't see that there was water there. I was in shock... I didn't know what to do and I was half submerged. At first I didn't know how to get out of the water and Minion Grace didn't look impressed at me. Eventually I made it out and went up to Minion Grace to cuddle me better - no such luck, she ran away from me. It's OK though as I got her back my shaking water in a 10m radius (including her - he he gr he).

5 months old

2006-01-12T11:18:00.000Z

It's 5 months since I was born. So here is a list of things I have learnt that are important in a puppy's life.

1. If you eat all the food in your dog bowl straight away then the Minions will give you more. If you save it for later it gets taken away
2. You can train the Minions if you pretend to do what they say
3. Any object can be made into a fun chew toy
4. Geese are evil, Cats are evil
5. Any plant that moves is fair game for digging up
6. If you tilt your head when you've done something wrong, you don't get punished
7. If you look hungry at one Minion they will feed you. If you then go to the other Minion and look hungry they will also feed you
8. Not everything that comes out of fridges is necessarily good
9. If you put your fingers in my mouth you should expect to get nibbled
10. When having a bath wait until the Minions rinse the bath down before shaking and spraying water everywhere again

Chimps!

2006-01-09T22:28:00.000Z

This evening I watched a documentary about chimps. There I was slowly falling asleep at the end of the bed when suddenly I heard this screeching noise coming from the TV. At first I thought that they sounded like the birds in the garden I have been chasing, then I thought that they looked like Minion John, on closer inspection they were much hairier. The TV show said that they were chimps. I was so interested I sat up and watched for a whole 1/2 hour while Minion Grace did work on her laptop. I especially liked the bits where the male chimps chased each other and I wanted to also play when the baby chimps and baboons were playing.

Anyway, apparently it's Chimp Week on the beeb this week. Here's a link if anyone's interested.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/animals/mammals/up_close/flash_featured.shtml

Chimps.... so fascinating!

After the program the Minions took me for a walk on the lead round the local roads (so confusing when usually they take me to the woods to walk off the lead). I don't like walking on the roads on evening strolls - not enough people to talk to or to appreciate my cuteness!!!

Snip snip

2006-01-07T19:46:00.000Z

The Minions took me for a walk in Outwoods. It was very rainy and I got really muddy which was very fun (not so fun when the mud dried and caked my hair together.... v uncomfortable).

Minion Grace gave me a haircut again. I feel light as a feather and am back to my skinny looking supermodel puppy mode. I was feeling a bit round and tufty. The Minions both agreed that I looked much better.

Minion John threw my football through the greenhouse. Minion Grace wasn't happy and Minion John blamed me because he said I told him to throw it there. Luckily Minion Grace saw the whole thing and I was acquitted. Must remember to bite Minion John later as punishment.

24 hr Party Puppy

2006-01-06T22:59:00.000Z

Got invited to Rachy and Lou's for dinner. I had so much fun running through the house and up and down the stairs. I even helped myself to the lamb curry off Minion Grace's plate. Everyone looked at me as if they were expecting me to say something. The curry tasted sooo good. Minion Grace said that she could not eat it as it was too hot. They reckon that it must be the Chinese Shih Tsu 1/2 of me that can eat chillis!!! Yum Yum

Tooth Fairy

2006-01-04T17:51:00.000Z

Question: Does the tooth fairy still give money in exchange for teeth if I accidentally eat them?

I have most of my big puppy teeth through already but I don't know what has happened to the teeth. The other dogs I met in the park told me that you can pawn your old teeth to get money. I wonder what the exchange rate is? I'm not too good at mathematics as noone has taught me, however I think it must be something along the lines of 1 canine = 10 pence = 1 Markie. Adding together all the teeth I've lost I must be owed about 1/2 a bag of Markies by now.

I DEMAND MY FAIR SHARE OF MARKIES!!! Howl howl ruff

New Shoes

2006-01-03T15:55:00.000Z

The Minions went shopping in the morning and left me at home to sleep. But when they got back they had bought me 2 new pairs of shoes to eat. How mean of them though to leave them in the shopping bag on the dining table. Luckily one of the handles of the bag fell off the table and was hanging down so I managed to pull the bag down to get my shoes.

The Minions shouted at me for helping myself to the shoes... how was I supposed to know that they were new trainers for them. They hadn't written their names on them or anything. One pair used to belong to someone called "Reebok" and the other to someone called "Kickers". There were 4 shoes and I have 4 paws - what else is a puppy to think? Shame that they have been confiscated now - those shoelaces were so tasty and chewy.

Champagne Superpuppy

2006-01-01T14:00:00.000Z

The Minions let me stay up late last night and watch telly. It was Jools' Hootenanney and I enjoyed singing (well, squeaking) along with the songs. At midnight it was a bit scary outside as lots of fireworks were going off, but it was made better as Minion John gave me some champagne. At first it was strange and the bubbles go stuck on my nose - but once I'd started lapping it up I enjoyed it. Felt a bit odd afterwards and couldn't wake up in the morning.

Musn't have champagne again. Minion Grace told me I had a bad dream as I was twitching and and growling in my sleep. When I got back to sleep I had a dream about eating bones... Minion Grace woke me from my lovely dream as apparently my teeth gnashing was too loud.... humph relegated back to my own bed downstairs again.

Aunty Chec and Phil came to visit me again in the afternoon.... where is my lamb bone???? I always get given bones from them. I had to give them a good chewing to teach them a lesson.

Braddy Park

2005-12-31T21:06:00.000Z

Minions took me for an exploration trip to Bradgate Park, this time to Old John instead of Cropston Reservoir. There were lots of other dogs to play with and I enjoyed running up and down the hills. There was a big scary dog that chased me though and gave me the shock of my life till I howled and cried. Note to self, when chasing a small black dog, pay attention to any big red dogs who might be running up behind.

When I got home there was a treat for me.. a little lamb bone (about 1/3 the size of the last one I had, but much better for picking up and dragging round the house). The Minions were a bit upset and had to febreze everywhere because it smelt like lamb. I managed to get the knuckle off and suck the marrow out of the middle. Minion Grace said it looked like I was smoking a big fat cigar.

Let Sleeping Puppies Lie

2005-12-29T19:53:00.000Z

I found a nice pile of towels to have an afternoon nap at GM Mum & Dad's. (Luckily they woke me up before they put them into the washing machine)

Up North

2005-12-28T22:53:00.000Z

Today I got to have a nice long nap in the car again. The Minions took me to visit GM Mum & Dad this time (Minion John's parents). There were lots of those cat things there. Dee Dee was nasty and scratched Minion John... oo I'll do more than bark at her next time she picks on my Minions.

I met Baby Liam. He was very playful, but a little scary and kept chasing me around. And he wanted to play with my toys and eat my chewy bones... luckily I wanted to play with his toys so we came to an amicable agreement.

White Fluffy Stuff

2005-12-27T10:42:00.000Z

Woke up this morning and the house was soooo cold. It's nice to be home. The Minions woke me up and made me go outside first thing as usual. Something was not quite right though.... my paws felt cold and wet and it wasn't raining. There was white fluffy stuff everywhere - coming down from the sky, all over the grass and getting stuck in my hair. I ate some of it and it tasted nice. Minion John made a snow ball and threw it at me (boo hoo). I picked it up to throw it back and it fell apart. It really frustrated me so I growled at it and batted it with my paws.

Here I am sitting in the garden. Good thing I'm not white all over or I would blend in.

What is this thing called "Cat"?

2005-12-26T23:00:00.000Z

Today we went to Poh Poh and See Ee's for Boxing Day lunch. No turkey in sight though. When we arrived at the house there was a furry creature in the alley next to the house. It ran further into the alley and was trapped. At first I ran towards it, but it didn't smell like doggy. I howled and howled at the Minions and ran behind Minion Grace's legs because I was so scared. The creature ran away and I barked at it to stay away. The Minions explained that this creature is called a "Cat" they laughed at me and said doggies should not be scared of cats - how was I supposed to know what it was.

After lunch the Minions and I went back home to Loughborough. I spent the entire journey asleep on Minion Grace's lap... it was so comfy and warm.

My First Christmas

2005-12-25T22:30:00.000Z

I woke up at just past midnight. I was alone in a strange kitchen and I could hear jingly bells oustide. At first I thought someone had stolen my jingly ball, then I realised it was coming from somewhere on the roof. I cried really loud until Minion Grace came to me. She explained that the noise must have been Santa and his reindeer. Then I went back to sleep.

I realised when I woke up properly later that Minion Grace was right as Santa had filled the front room with presents. The Minions woke up very early (it was still dark) and they took an enormous turkey out of the fridge (...mmm turkey). It went into the oven (the oven was at Minion height so I couldn't see it anymore - but boy could I smell it). All the Minions and the extended family of Minions went out and left me in the kitchen with the wonderful cooking turkey smells.

At lunchtime all the Minions came back, and more family arrived. I was so excited. There were two very small Minions (James and Toby) to play with. I don't think Toby liked me though as he cried much louder than me. The family had lunch. I got to sit under the table and eat anything that fell off. James dropped an entire bowl of little green ball shaped vegetables on the floor- joy- millions of little balls for me to bat about and play with. The Minions weren't impressed when I scattered the balls everywhere. I even got to eat one before they got confiscated. After lunch I got a whole doggy bowl full of gnarly chewy bits of turkey. Yum yum.

Here's my personal "puppy thankyous":
- Doggy stocking from Santa
- Furry squeaky ball from the Minions
- Doggy picture frame from See Ee
- Waterproof coat from Poh Poh
- New glow in the dark extenda lead from Aunty Chec & Uncle Phil
- Stuffed rope toy from Uncle Jeremy

Grand Minions

2005-12-23T20:06:00.000Z

Today I met the Grand Minions (GMs) Mummy & Daddy. I was very scared of GM Mummy and I did my SAS submissive crawl towards her. GM Daddy was much more fun and played with me with my jingly ball lots. I was having a nap in the lounge half chewing my rawhide bone when I woke up and suddenly GM Mummy was right behind me. It gave me such a shock I howled and howled. GM Mummy got a shock too (hee hee). She must have liked me howling at her as later she gave me lots of tidbits of chicken. She told me not to tell anyone though (oops).

I am getting a bit of a complex though as everyone keeps referring to me as him/he. I'm pretty sure I look like a little girl. So insulting.

Knackered Puppy

2005-12-18T23:01:00.000Z

The Minions took me for another walk today. We went up to Beacon Hill today. My poor little paws are so tired from walking up and down steep hills. I was trying to persuade the Minions to carry me but they're so mean they ignored my pleas. All I did was try to catch a lift on the back of their legs and give them a little cuddle. Not my fault that they ended up with muddy pawprints on their trousers... what do they expect when they make me walk on muddy paths?

Aside from being tired I am really enjoying this walking off the lead business. Here's my pros and cons for walking with no lead:

Pros
1. Freedom and equality for all puppies
2. Can run back and forth
3. Can play with other dogs and their humans
4. Can hide in piles of leaves
5. Don't get dragged around

Cons
1. Can't tie Minions legs up with lead
2. Get shouted at more
3. Have to keep and eye on where the Minions are going
4. Get left behind
5. Can't force the Minions to go where I want

Social Puppy

2005-12-17T22:41:00.000Z

Today the Minions took me for a walk to Stonebow Wetlands and Booth Wood. There were a lot of ducks and those evil geese variety again. Luckily for me they were all in the water today. We walked up a big muddy hill, went to look at a big obelisk. It was a bit eerily quiet round there. Then we went to play in the woods. I think the Minions were a bit lost though - had to save them by leading them the right way.

I'm such a polite puppy. I insist on stopping and saying "hello" to everyone we meet along the way. Humans are so antisocial - going about their daily business never greeting anyone else.

I got my first invite to a proper party tonight. I had lots of fun playing with everyone there and showing off my tricks (sitting, chasing my own tail, running along with my jingly bell). I also helped myself to food off people's plates when they weren't looking. Not my fault they leave it lying around is it?

Happy 4 Month Birthday to Me

2005-12-12T19:28:00.000Z

I am four months old today and thanks to my Minions I am still alive. Minion Grace brought me a solid rawhide bone - muchos chewiness. It's just the right size and weight for carrying around the house and throwing about. Also it makes a good substitute hammer for hitting the Minions' toes with (mwa ha ha).

Bradgate Park

2005-12-11T16:24:00.000Z

The Minions took me to Bradgate Park today. At first I didn't want to get out of the car as I was having such a nice nap. They put me on the extender lead so I got to tie their legs up again. Once we were further into the park I was set free. There were so many other doggies around (none as cute as me I note) and although I was a little scared at first I later enjoyed chasing round with them. Bradgate Park is wonderful and very large with rolling fields to run around. The Minions took me for a little jog - unfortunately I fell into a little ditch and they couldn't find me. The ditch was about a foot deep and 20cms wide, I cried and cried and stretched my tail up high so they could find me. Luckily for me they dragged me out and gave me a cuddle and a Markie to make up for it. I met some other Shih Tsus and a Lhasa/Cavalier. They were much bigger than me and also looked like someone had squashed their noses flat. I do hope my nose doesn't end up like that or else I might have to consider doggy rhinoplasty!!!

Growing Pup

2005-12-09T20:13:00.000Z

I have progressed onto 2 main meals a day. I don't want to spoil my beautiful supermodel figure - but I must admit that I have been supplementing my diet with a number of goodies I found round the house. Here's a list of my favourite self selected "treats" from around the house:

- used socks
- shoelaces (in fact any footwear I guess)
- lumps of coal
- crunchy leaves
- carpet underlay
- pencils and biros
- potatoes
- cables (especially the connectors)

Santa - if you happen to be looking at my blog, I HAVE been a very good girl this year (well since August at least) and I wouldn't mind finding any of these in my Christmas stocking ;)

O Christmas Tree

2005-12-05T19:54:00.000Z

A large green, spiky tree type object appeared in the house today. It's very springy and pounceable. Lots of wires and strings of beads about for me to hang off and lots of baubles to fall off and chase around the floor. I am a very hygienic dog and used the bristley branches to floss my teeth.

I Feel Like Chicken Tonight

2005-12-04T20:48:00.000Z

The Minions had a roast chicken for dinner tonight. I got a whole bowl full of chicken. All the best tasty, gnarly bits for me. I swallowed it down as fast as I could just in case Minion John changed his mind. I suspect that I was tricked as I quite definitely munched down on doggy kibble towards the bottom. The Minions have been feeding me rather well lately - I do hope that I'm not the turkey replacement for Christmas.

Superfast Internet Fun

2005-12-03T09:48:00.000Z

The Minions got a new internet connection today. It's 2MB (much better than the old 300K) and it means that I can use the webcam to talk to all my friends without it being jerky.

Got told off this morning when I came in from the garden. I found some large black lumps of chewy crunchy stuff (think doggy biscuits much 10x bigger). Minion John was not impressed when I left black paw prints everywhere. Why do they not appreciate my interior design skills?

Minion Grace cut my hair again today. This time cutting my whole body. I am feeling instantly lighter (no need for drastic diets for me). I think that it wasn't too bad for a first attempt, however it's a bit short. Minion John laughs at me and says I look like a sausage dog (not sure what one of them is, but it sounds tasty).

Flying Superpup

2005-12-01T21:34:00.000Z

Since I made it over the barrier earlier this week, I can now climb. Last week I was finding it hard to get up each step at a time, having to scramble my back legs up - this week I am flying up the stairs. I'm so fast the Minions can't stop me. In fact I can overtake the Minions AND knock them over on the way up the steps. I'm a bit out of control going down the steps though, I'm OK till about 1/2 way down but then I am going too fast and skid down the last few steps only just about avoiding crashing nose first into the front door.

It's been very cold and wet outside this week. It's most peculiar as the ground is all crunchy (a bad kind of crunchy that doesn't taste like biscuits or bones).

Freedom

2005-11-28T22:33:00.000Z

Today I finally made it over the barrier between the kitchen and dining room. Ever since I was relocated I have been consistently attempting the jump to no avail. So there I was standing by the back door, I gave myself the longest run up, I jumped just at the right moment - time stood still as I sailed over the barrier, ears flapping freely, legs outstretched. Then my back legs splatted on the barrier, luckily I had enough momentum to carry me over and I landed face first (as usual - damn my overly heavy brain) on the other side. FREEDOM, GLORIOUS FREEDOM. And to make it an even better day, guess what Minion Grace had left in a plastic bag on the floor - yup, my Schmackos treats from the pet shop. I had a good time ripping through the bag until the Minions noticed. To be honest I should have ripped a bit more quietly.

Bah - so now they have raised the barrier and I can't even see over the top now. Maybe I can fashion some kind of ladder out of my bed and bowls to climb over again.

Sunday Roasty Goodness

2005-11-27T19:14:00.000Z

Got an invite to Mr Matt's house for Sunday lunch today. Had a great time chasing teatowels, sliding around on the laminate flooring, and generally being cuddled senseless. Met Jo, Sarah and Colin. I even got to eat some of the roast beef (and also helped myself to a bowl of gravy). Don't think Minion Grace was too happy as I had lots of gravy on my chin.

P.S. Tx for the bone, I'm chewing it as I type.
P.P.S. Sorry about the door mat incident :'(

New Accessories

2005-11-27T19:07:00.000Z

I got a new chewy shoe today. It's bigger than the old one and seems to be of better quality.

Here I am having a good munch... not sure that it is tastier than Minion John's slipper though.

Here's what happened to the old shoe. Not sure what actually became of most of the upper.

I also got a new bone tag and collar today. After the fiasco with the internet connection the Minions have decided to change their supplier and so have a new telephone number. This new bone is engraved rather than etched so it looks far more posh - as is fitting for a chav puppy like me.

My First Haircut

2005-11-25T23:31:00.000Z

Finally back on line. Minion Grace cut my hair today. I'm so embarrassed I don't want to go out in public. Firstly I wasn't too keen on those scissors near my eyes and secondly I didn't like to sit still. Minion Grace cut quite a lot of hair away and now my head looks too small compared to the rest of my body. Now at least I can see where I'm going but unfortunately I can't hide food under my chin anymore.

No Internet Connection

2005-11-23T15:43:00.000Z

Just a quick note for my adoring fans, don't worry I haven't died...the naughty council cut through the telephone and internet cables - so now we have no internet till the weekend. So now I can't make phone calls to all my other doggy friends or write my blog properly. I'm getting my minion to post this from work.

In the meantime I have got bigger and even more bitey. Now weighing 6lb 10oz (reckon I'm about half my final weight). I am now on www.puppywar.com too (vote for me - don't know what the prize is for being voted top dog, maybe they send you a big chewy bone in the post).

Brrrr

2005-11-18T08:56:00.000Z

Yesterday the Minions were upset with me. I ripped up the carpet in the conservatory and chewed up the underlay (it was muchos springy and chewy). They're so mean, I am officially teething and they have no sympathy!!! IMHO that carpet was nasty anyway and needs to be changed for lino. Also the threshold under the door was starting to rot away so I helped out ripped it out for them (not my fault it was so rotten that it fell into a million little shards).

This morning I woke up and as usual Minion John tried to kick me out of my nice warm bed into the garden. I put my head out of the door way and brrr.... my nose instantly turned into an icicle. All I could think was "you must be joking" and headed back for some much needed beauty napping. Later Minion Grace was so cruel and carried me outside - but hey at least she got cold too.

Not a Kebab!!

2005-11-16T20:50:00.000Z

I went to visit Minion Grace at archery club today. Minion John walked me all the way from home (a good 1/2 hour walk at ten to the dozen for me). Anyway, I turned up all grey and dusty from the road, but everyone still thought I was beautiful. It's the most number of fawning people I've ever had. I'm slowly coming to the conclusion that I must be some kind of superpuppy who can magnetically draw humans to her.

The Minions got pizza on the way home.... drool it smelt so good in the car. I thought we might share it three ways - but alas we got home and what was in my bowl.... you've guessed it.... doggy kibble AGAIN!!! Must remember that if I find something nice to eat in the garden not to share it with the Minions.

Happy 1/4 Birthday to Me + Walkies

2005-11-13T19:37:00.000Z

It was my 1/4 birthday yesterday. I am 0.25 years (human) old.

My teeth are very itchy at the moment and I need to chew...lots. The Minions aren't impressed when I chew their shoes so they bought me a rawhide shoe just for me to chew. It's not Gucci or anything. In fact it was particularly sub standard as the shoe laces came off straight away (although I'm not complaining as they were quite tasty).

I went for my first proper walks this weekend. Yesterday we went to Charnwood Water for a quick stroll. Every human we met on the way stopped to worship my cuteness. Every animal we met on the way was scary. They must be jealous because I get so much attention. [Note to self: Geese are evil.]

Today we went for a longer walk at Outwoods. The Minions took me to the petshop on the way and let me choose a new extendible lead. The lady at the petshop was lovely to me and gave me choccie drops. This new lead is nice and chewy and I can run about more chasing leaves. I especially like running round the minion's legs and tying their feet up so they trip over.

My First Day at Work

2005-11-11T21:20:00.000Z

I've given up on the hunger strike.... too hungry!! Minion Grace came home to feed me at lunchtime, I was starving and wolfed my lunch down. After lunch we went for a ride in the car. Minion Grace tied my leash to the seatbelt and let me sit in the passenger seat. It was very scary going for a ride and I squeaked a lot (after a while I realised it was quite fun and was squeaking to go faster).

I got to run about on my leash for a while then we went into this big building. I like to explore and there were so many people there all paying me attention.... I must be so beautiful. Some giant called Tony kept growling at me and he smelt funny so I tried to clean his face. Then I went somewhere in a big metal box that makes lots of noise and has lots of buttons. There were more adoring fans upstairs. I played and played till I was tired and my minion took me home. No new toys today :(

Another New Toy

2005-11-09T22:38:00.000Z

Shan and Paul came to visit me today. They brought me a new toy. It is a bit like two of my toys mixed together....my favourite ball on a rope and the rubber bone that jingles. So now I have a rubber ball on a rope that jingles. It's very chewy and it also refuses to die. I think that my Minions will really appreciate all the jingling noises all day and night !! I'm a bit scared as I think that Shan might want to kidnap me (although if there is more playing and toys I may be tempted).

Bath Time

2005-11-08T19:39:00.000Z

I had a bath today. Can't say that I enjoyed it much. The Minions were very mean and took pictures of me.

Here I am after my blow dry.... beautiful again!! [I'm hiding my paws under my body]

My First Bone

2005-11-07T23:01:00.000Z

Minion Grace's sister and Phil came to visit today, they brought me the biggest bone. It had lots of lovely lamb on it and I was very much enjoying dragging it all over the kitchen floor (it was a bit big and heavy for me to carry properly). Now THIS is what food should taste like...no more of that doggy biscuit rubbish. That's it, I'm going to go on hunger strike unless I get more of this food.

It's way past my bedtime now (better not get caught using the computer by the minions)... night night.

My New Friend

2005-11-06T19:13:00.000Z

I met a new friend today at Minions' friends Rachy & Lou's. His name is Marvin and we are about the same size. At first I was very scared as I wasn't sure what the fluffy moving thing was, but then after we were introduced we began to play. You can see how much fun I was having because my tail is a blur in the picture.

Marvin. My new friend is very cuddly.

Vaccinations - Part II

2005-11-04T19:41:00.000Z

Went to the vet again today. I met two very big dogs at the vets (a big black labrador and a golden labrador)... I wasn't sure what they were but they were big and I tried to hide under a chair - I'm pretty sure one of them was licking its lips at me. I was weighed again...this time 5lb 1oz. I am almost twice as big as when I was adopted.

Once into the vets it was a different fella. He opened this big fridge - it was near dinner time so maybe there was a nice treat in store. Just my luck it was another one of those vaccinations. It was really painful again and made me cry. I managed to make it less sore by scratching it with my foot. Just when I thought he'd finished he came at me again brandishing a gun.... a BIG NEEDLE gun. There was some mention of "scanning". Maybe it is so that I can go to Tescos and get more puppy food.

My Minions gave me a good cuddling and extra big dinner to make up for it. Then we played fireworks in the garden. I'm a very well behaved and brave puppy because I don't mind the big bangs and bright lights (as long as my Minions are near by).

Stuck

2005-11-04T15:23:00.000Z

I have had a dreadful morning. I have been crying because I managed to squeeze in behind the oven and get stuck on the way out. I don't know how long my head was in front of the oven and my body wedged behind, but I called and called until Minion Grace came home and helped me free. I don't think I want to squeeze in there anymore (even though there are nice lumps of plaster I can chew off the wall behind the units). Minion Grace moved the oven so the gap is even smaller (I won't be able to squeeze through at all).

See Saw Majorie Daw

2005-11-02T15:19:00.000Z

Minion John has built me a see saw. I like running up and making it tip over. I'm not so keen on running down it though - I have to growl at it to teach it not to move. I am learning new words for my vocabulary... now I can squeak, yap, growl and meow. The minions think that I am confused because I go meow.

Sit!

2005-10-31T19:49:00.000Z

Today I have been learning how to "sit". I am very good at sitting when there are treats involved. Unfortunately I have forgotten how to "come" and I just sit instead. I enjoy taunting my Minions by pretending I don't know how to do things - there's no point doing what they say unless I get a treat, is there?

Swimming Lessons

2005-10-29T21:35:00.000Z

Today I had my first swimming lesson. I was minding my own business walking round the edge of the pond when I decided to take a short cut and walk across the pond. Silly me, I can't walk on water. It was very cold but I enjoyed swimming back and forth chasing the fish. My Minions thought that I looked very odd because my head didn't get wet and was still fluffy, whilst the rest of my body was wet. They had the nerve to say I looked rat like - I just like to remind them of my skinny figure.

Unfortunately I had to have a bath - again. But now the Minions have bought a nice hair dryer so I end up extremely fluffy. I don't like baths, but I do like being groomed afterwards.

Do I Look Like A Teddy Bear?

2005-10-26T12:10:00.000Z

Here I am at 10 weeks old. I'm getting very tall now.

Relocation Relocation

2005-10-22T14:31:00.000Z

Today my Minions moved me into the kitchen. I used to sleep in the dining room, but the Minions got upset when I hid smelly presents under the table (they keep spraying this awful orange oil stuff on the carpet to deter me... but it won't work). So now there is a barrier between the kitchen and dining room. I think I will be over it in a couple of weeks. I prefer it in the kitchen anyway as the Minions are always dropping bits of food on the floor.

My First Day by Myself

2005-10-19T22:23:00.000Z

Today both my minions had to go to work all day. I was very surprised when no one came home to feed me at lunchtime (maybe that's why I got a second breakfast at 9!!). Minion Grace came home after work with lots of her friends. I met Jane, Roland, Cat and Anna today. They are very nice and gave me loads of attention while Minion Grace tidied up after me (I'd had a bit of an accident).

My First Tricks

2005-10-15T14:27:00.000Z

Today my Minions and I played in the garden most of the day. We chased leaves (I with my teeth and them with these big rakey things).

I am getting more familiar with when my name is called and now I can bound over to my Minions on command. Similarly I can get my minions to come over to me too.

My First Visit to the Vet

2005-10-14T18:31:00.000Z

I am 9 weeks old today!

I got a present from the Minions today - a new tag for my collar. It is a little metal blue bone with my name engraved on it (just in case I get lost).

On the other hand though I had my first visit to the vet. I fell asleep on Minion John's lap in the waiting room. I go to the Forest Road Vets. They are very nice there...although I wasn't so keen on the vaccinations that I had. At first I didn't even notice that I had been jabbed - but then suddenly it hurt and made me cry ;'( I got a free puppy pack from the vets and it had free food - mmm.

Was weighed again, I am now 3lb 2oz (I wonder how much of that weight is fluff?).

Online Doggy

2005-10-11T14:42:00.000Z

Minion Grace worked from home today to keep me company. Here I am sitting next to her laptop while she works. I enjoy trying to type on it.

My First Day

2005-10-10T11:09:00.000Z

I was very lonely by myself in my big bed last night. I had to call my minions to cuddle me a couple of times. I have no siblings to keep me warm :'(

Today I was weighed... I am 2lb 12 oz

Here's my favourite toy. Minion's friend Matthew brought me this gift. I like to pounce and chase the ball. It's too big to get the ball in my mouth though. I even managed to make a growl noise today.

My First Post

2005-10-09T19:55:00.000Z

Welcome to Mocha Blog. My name is Mocha and I am a Shiz Tsu cross Bichon Frise. Today I was adopted by Grace & John (my minions). I lived on a farm in Quorn with my mum and 3 siblings. I am called Mocha because I am coloured in layers of black, brown and white.

I had my first ride in a car today. It was very scary and made me squeak. Thankfully Minion Grace wrapped my up snuggly in a towel and cuddled me all the way to my new home. Now I live just up the road in Loughborough, UK. When I got to the house lots of Minions' friends were there to welcome me - I MUST be royalty. I was very scared but still loved all the attention. I was so excited I nearly had an accident on Minion John's foot.

This is my first photo. I am SO photogenic... don't I look cute?

I have a new bed all to myself and lots of toys - although most of the toys are almost as big as me.