Monday, November 14, 2011

Midge Arrives Early at Jake's

   "Hey Jake!" called Midge as she strolled up the sidewalk to the front porch.  "What are you doing Jake?"
   "Hi Midge," greeted Jake.  "What are you doing here so early?  It's only 6:00 am."
   "I know," said Midge.  "My mistress had to leave the house early today and I was just laying there by myself and decided to come see if you were awake yet."
  "I am always up early in the morning," said Jake.  " I come out on the front porch around 5:30 am to enjoy the quiet of the morning.  My mistress gets up at 5:30 am to get ready for work."
   "Why does she get up so early?" asked Midge.  "My mistress doesn't usually get up til 6:30 am and then she leaves the house at 7:30.  I thought your mistress left the house at 7:30 also."

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Jake and Halloween

   "Hey Jake!"  called Midge as she strolled up the sidewalk to the porch.  "Jake!  What are you doing today?"
   "Hi Midge," said Jake as he sat up.  "I was watching the kids going to school this morning. They look funny."
   "Why do you think they look funny today?" asked Midge.
   "Have you seen them today?" asked Jake. 
   "No, I haven't seen any this morning yet," said Midge.  "What are they doing?"
   "No, it's not what they are doing," said Jake. "It's what they are wearing.  They aren't right this morning."
   "They are dressed really funny," said Jake.  "Won't the school be upset with them looking bad and send them home?"

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Midge Finds Jake Napping

   “Jake!” called Midge as she hurried up the sidewalk to the porch.  “What are you doing this morning?  Are you sleeping again?”
   “I was napping Midge,” said Jake.
   “Why?” asked Midge. “Didn’t you just get up?  You should nap in the afternoon.”
   “Why should I wait until afternoon if I’m sleepy in the morning?” asked Jake.
   “You are such a lazy dog,” laughed Midge.  “You will sleep your life away if you could.”

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Midge and the Change

   Midge skipped along the sidewalk while she sang a happy little tune.  She hurried around the corner and through the gate at Jake's house.  She leaped up the steps to the porch where Jake was napping on the big lounge chair in the corner.  "Hey Jake!" sang Midge.  "It's time to wake up now.  Your good friend Midge is here to see you."
   "Hi Midge," said Jake.  "You are sure in a good mood this morning."
   "I know," said Midge.  "Don't you love it?"
   "It's great," said Jake.  "But you are always in a good mood but this morning you are even singing. What is up with you this morning?"

Sunday, September 25, 2011

Booker-T is Worried

   "Hey Jake!" called Booker-T as he hurried into the yard and up to the porch where Jake was napping on the lounge chair. 
   "What are you up to this morning Booker-T?" asked Jake.
   "I was looking for Midge but she wasn't at home and thought she was over here," said  Booker-T.
   "I haven't seen her this morning yet," said Jake. "I think this is her day to go to the vet."
   "Oh," said Booker-T.  "Maybe that is where she is." 
   "Why were you looking for Midge?" asked Jake.  "Is everything all right?"

Saturday, September 17, 2011

Midge Invites Jake

    “Hey Jake!” called Midge as she strolled up the sidewalk to the front porch.  “What are you doing up there?”
     “What does it look like I was doing?” sang Jake.   “Why are you singing what you say?”
    “I’m in a good mood,” said Midge.  “Do you want to come to the house tonight?”
    “Why?” asked Jake. "What is going on at your house tonight?"
    “You don’t want to come to the house?” asked Midge. 

Sunday, September 11, 2011

Midge wants to Sing

   "Hey Jake," sang Midge as she strolled up the sidewalk to the porch.  "Where are you Jake?  I'm coming up the sidewalk looking for you."
   "Midge," said Jake. "What in the world are you doing? Why are you singing everything you say?"
   "Because I'm practicing to sing," said Midge.
   "But why are you practicing to sing?" asked Jake.  "Why do you need to sing? Dogs don't sing."
   "Why don't they?" asked Midge.  "You hear me singing don't you?"

Friday, September 9, 2011

Jake and his Brain

   "Hey Jake!" called Midge as she hurried up the sidewalk to the front porch.  "What are you doing this morning?"
   "Hi Midge," said Jake as he sat up.  "I was taking a nap."
   "A nap?"  asked Midge. "Why were you taking a nap?  Didn't you just wake up this morning?"
   "I got up about an hour ago," said Jake.  "But I was still sleepy."
   "Wow," said Midge.  "Are you okay?  You don't usually take a nap an hour after you wake up."

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Labor Day

   "Hey Midge!" called Jake as he strolled up to the front porch where Midge was lounging on the big chair. 
   "Hi Jake," said Midge.  "What are you doing this morning? You are out really early today."
   "I know," said Jake.  "My mistress got up early to meet some friends for a Labor Day picnic."
   "Labor day," said Midge.  "What is Labor day?  I don't remember hearing my mistress talk about that day."
    "I don't know," said Jake.  "Not sure why they call it labor day because I don't think she labors on labor day."
   "Then why do they call it Labor day?" asked Midge.  "Sounds like a day you will be doing some kind of labor doesn't it?"

Saturday, September 3, 2011

Midge Loves the Rain

   “Midge!” called Jake as he hurried up the sidewalk to the front porch. “Where are you?  Are you sleeping up there?”
   “Hi Jake,” said Midge.  “No, I’m not sleeping. What are you doing walking in the rain?”
   “Is that why you didn’t come over to the house this morning?  It's raining.” asked Jake.  “I thought maybe you were sick so I walked over to see how you were doing?”
   “It was raining really hard earlier Jake,” said Midge.  “So I thought I would wait to see if the rain would lighten up before I walked over there.”

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Booker-T and the Wagon

   “Hi Jake,” said Midge as she climbed the steps to the front porch where Jake was sitting in the lounge chair.
   “Hi Midge,” said Jake.  “Where is Booker-T?  I thought he was coming with you this morning.”
   “I thought so too,” said Midge.  “I went over to the house looking for him and when I walked up the sidewalk to the house, I saw him going down the street with a little girl.”
   “He was going for a walk with her?” asked Jake.

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Sharing is Good.

   "Good morning Jake," said Midge as she climbed the steps to the front porch where Jake was sitting in the lounge chair. 
   "Hi Midge," said Jake.  "You are early today.  I haven't even eaten breakfast this morning."
   "My mistress had to go somewhere with her aunt this morning so she gave me my breakfast early," said Midge.  "So after I ate it, I decided to come see if you were up yet."
   "I'm always up early, but I don't eat til my mistress gets up and feeds me before she leaves for work," said Jake.  "She should be putting out my food in a few minutes."

Monday, August 29, 2011

Booker-T's New Friend

  "Hey Snappy!  Where are you?" called Jake as he and Midge approached the pond in the middle of the park.    "Hello Snappy."
  "I don't see him," said Midge.  "He never goes too far from here."
  "Hey Snappy!  Are you here somewhere?" called Jake again.
  "Hi Jake," said Snappy as he came swimming to the shore from the other side of the pond.  "Hi Midge."
  "Where were you?" asked Jake.

Sunday, August 28, 2011

Midge and her new Friend.

   "Hey Midge!" called Jake and he came through the gate of the front yard.  "Hello Midge.  I'm here now."
   Jake hurried up the porch steps but Midge was not there.  He looked around the front yard, but Midge wasn't there either.   "Midge!"  called Jake.  "Hello Midge.  Are you up yet?"
   "Hi Jake," said Midge as she came around the corner from the back yard.  "I'm in the back yard Jake." 
   "What are you doing back there?" asked Jake.  "I thought we were going to the park with Booker-T this morning.  I waited for you to come over to the house, but you never showed up.  So here I am."

Saturday, August 27, 2011

Midge and the Beach

   "Hello Jake!" sang Midge as she strolled through the gate to the front yard.  "Hello Jake!  What are you doing.  Howdy howdy.  I'm here."
   "Hi Midge," said Jake as he sat up.  "What are you up to this morning that has you all cheery and singing?"
   "I am feeling good this morning Jake," sang Midge.  "It's a wonderful day today. The sun is shining, the wind is blowing and I am happy, happy, happy."
   "I'm glad you are happy," said Jake.  "Why are you so happy this morning?"

Friday, August 26, 2011

Gabby and the Drought

  "Hey Midge!"  called Gabby.  "What are you doing?"
  "Hi Gabby," said Midge.  "I'm just laying here enjoying the rain falling.  Doesn't it look great Gabby?"
  "Yes," said Gabby.  "We sure have needed the rain.  The bird bath at the park has been dried up for long time."
   "I know," said Midge. "I heard my mistress telling someone that things were really getting bad and we were sure needing rain."
   "Yes we did," said Gabby.  "We have been in a drought and that isn't good."
   "A drought?" asked Midge.  "What is a drought?  I never heard that word before."

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Midge and the Circus

   "Jake!  Jake!" called Midge as she strolled around the corner and into the yard.  "Hey Jake! Where are you?"
   Jake lifted his head, "Hi Midge.  I'm here," said Jake.  "What are you all excited about this morning?"
   "What is a circus?" asked Midge. 
   "Why do you want to know what a circus is?" asked Jake.  " Are you going to join them?"
   "Very funny Jake," said Midge.  "Why would I want to join the circus?  I don't even know what a circus is."

Monday, August 22, 2011

Midge is Late

   "Midge!  Midge!" called Jake as he turned into the front yard at Midge's house.  He hurried up the sidewalk and leaped onto the porch. 
   Midge wasn't there so he turned and ran down the steps and hurried to the back yard to find Midge.  "Hey Midge," called Jake.  "Are you back here?"
   "Hey Jake," greeted Midge as he came into the back yard where he found Midge sitting near the back door.  "What are you doing this morning?"
   "I came to find you," said Jake.  "We are supposed to meet Booker-T at the park today.  Did you forget?"

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Midge and Romance

   "Hello Jake," said Midge as she came skipping up the sidewalk to the front porch.  "Hello Jake.  Where are you Jake?"
   She leaped up the porch steps and found that Jake was no where.  She looked around the front yard and didn't see him anywhere.   She sat in front of the door and called to him again. "Jake, where are you?"
   "I'm right here," said Jake as he walked around the corner of the house.  "You are early this morning Midge."
   "I know," said Midge. "My mistress left to take her aunt to the airport, so I came down here to see you after she left."

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Midge Gets New Dog Food

   “Hey Midge!” called Jake as he walked up the sidewalk to the front porch, but Midge wasn’t on the porch enjoying the sunshine.  He went to the back yard to look for Midge back there,” Hey Midge!  Where are you?  Hello Midge!”
   “Hi Jake,” said Midge. "How are you this morning Jake?" 
   “What are you doing this morning?” asked Jake.  “Why are you laying back here?  You are usually on the front porch soaking up the sun.  Are you okay today?”
   “My mistress just fed me so I was back here to eat my breakfast,” signed Midge.  “But I don’t like what she gave me this morning.”
   “Why?” asked Jake.  “She usually gives you good stuff.  What is wrong with that food?”
   “Taste this stuff,” said Midge.  “The flavor is awful.”
   Jake went to the bowl and tasted the food in it.  “Oh! What is it?” asked Jake.  “I’ve never tasted that flavor either.”
   “It’s terrible Jake,” said Midge.  “I like the other flavor she gave me, but this one is really bad.  I can't eat it.  I tired soaking it in my water and eating it, but that doesn't help it.”
   “Will she know you don’t like it if you don’t eat it?” asked Jake.
   “Yes,” said Midge.  “When she tries new stuff, she knows I don’t like it when I don’t eat it, but she bought a big bag of it and she usually don't buy something different until it is gone.”
   “That’s not good if she won't get something else til the bag is gone,” said Jake. “But if you don’t eat it, she won’t give it to you again.”
   “But I’m hungry Jake,” said Midge.  “What do I do?  I want something to eat.  Will you help me get rid of this stuff so she will buy something better?”
   "But if you just get rid of it, she will think you are eating it and buy some more," said Jake.  "That won't work.  She has to know that you don't like the food."
   "Oh Jake," said Midge. "You are right. I didn't think of that.  Oh dear, what am I going to do?  I'm so hungry and that food is too hard to even choke down."
   “I still have food in my bowl from this morning,” said Jake. “I will share it with you if you want some.  Maybe you can share my food until she gets something better and just leave your food in the bowl for her to throw away.”
   “Thank you Jake,” said Midge as she got up to go with Jake to  his house.  "You are such a good friend.  "Won't you get hungry if you don't eat all your food every day?"
   "It's okay Midge," said Jake.  "I will share with you.  I don't think your mistress will let you go very long without food." 
   The two walked to Jake's house where Midge shared his food,  "I'm so glad to have a good friend like you Jake."
   "I am glad we are friends, Midge," said Jake. 

Saturday, August 13, 2011

After the Rain

   Buffy  was a small white Persian cat who lived up the street from Midge.  She was on her front porch curled up on a soft cushion of the lawn chair as she watched the rain tapping on the porch railing.  She wanted to play with Pokey, the black and white cat who roamed the neighborhood not really belonging to anyone.  He was "the cat about town,"  as he called himself.  Buffy wsas intriqued by his carefree manner. She hadn't seen Pokey this morning and thought that he was probably sleeping somewhere out of the rain, but she missed him just the same.

Friday, August 12, 2011

Midge and the Fireworks

  “Jake! Jake!”  screamed Midge as she ran up the sidewalk to the porch.  “Jake!  Where are you?”
   “Hey Midge,” called Jake from the back yard. “Why all the excitement?  What happened?
   “Do you know what fireworks are?” asked Midge. 
   “Yeah,” said Jake.  “I went to see some last year with my mistress. They are pretty when then go up in the air and have all the pretty colors.”
   “My mistress said they are going to have fireworks in the park,” said Midge.  “Are you going to be there?”
   “I don’t know,” said Jake.  “My mistress hasn’t said anything about it to her friend.  She usually takes her little niece and nephew.  I hope she is going. I like the pretty fireworks.”

Thursday, August 11, 2011

Susie and the Stars

   Susie was a small black poodle puppy. 'She was no bigger than a minute,' her mother would say.  She was fiesty and always up to something as she ran around the big back yard.  She loved to chase the butterflies and the squirrels as they came down from the trees to find something to eat.  Her mother would sit on the porch watching her pups as they ran and played.   Susie had two little brothers and a sister who liked to chase squirrels also.  Susie ran to her mother, "Momma!" said Susie.

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Susie's Discovery

    Susie loved to romp around the lush green grass chasing the butterflies who were brave enogh to land within her reach.  She would crotch low and with one leg at a time, she would slowly and steadily inch her way toward the unsuspecting butterfly.  Every step she took, she would pause for a moment and stare at the tiny creature and never once link an eye.  She never took her eye off her little prey as she moved closer to the little butterfly.  Then suddenly she would leap forward and pounce upon the butterfly with all fours.  Carefully she would lift her paw to view her catch, only to discover once again, she had only caught the air. 

Sunday, August 7, 2011

Out of the Shadows

   Billy was a tiny black and white goat who like to run and jump on things he could find around the field near the barn.  Whe he wasn't running and jumping, he was trying to butt head with the baby pigs.  At times he would try to jump onto the back of one of the pigs, but the pig was too small to hold his weight and he would slide off.
   "Billy, you are so mean," said Dixie, the little pink pig.
   "I'm just having fun with you," said Billy laughing at Dixie.
   "But you are so mean when you jump on my back," said Dixie. "You are bigger than I am."
   "You don't like me to play with you?" asked Billy. 
   "No, not that way," said Dixie.
   Billy lowered his head and sadly walked away to the other side of the barn.  He felt so bad that his friend Dixie thought he was mean.  He didn't want Dixie to be mad at him. He liked her.  She was the only one would play with him. All the other little pigs would poke him with their noses and get mad at him.  He lay down  in the corner and took a nap for a while.  He flet alone without his friend Dixie to play with. 
    After a couple of hours, he awoke to find he was all alone in the field by the barn.  He looked around the aream but saw no one. "Boy, they must really be mad at me today," thought Billy.
   "Hello, everyone!"  Where are you?" called Billy as he walked around the field. 
   There wasn't a sound from anywhere.  Billy felt so bad and so alone. 
  "Hello!  Where is everyone?" called Billy again.  "I promise if you will come back, I won't be mean any more.  Please come back everyone."
   But still he heard no one.  he slowly crossed the field to the water trough to get a drink of water. Suddenly from out of the shadows of the barn, jumped the little pigs.  They leaped on Billy and rolled him to the ground.  Dixie jumped on top of Billy's back.  He was shaking when he finally pulled himself to his feet. 
   "Why did you do that?" asked Billy.
   "How did it feel, Billy?" asked Dixie.
   "I didn't like it," said Billy.  "You all scared me and and it hurt when you landed on my back."
   "Now you know how we feel when you jump on our backs," said Dixie. 
   "Gee, I didn't realize.  I am sorry Dixie," said Billy.  "I promise I won't do that again.  Will you please forgive me?"
  "I will, but you have to be nicer when we play," said Dixie.
  Billy made a promise to Dixie and from then on he was more considerate of his playmates.

Thursday, August 4, 2011

Midge’s Excitement

   “Jake! Jake!” screamed Midge as she ran up the sidewalk to the porch steps.  “Jake!”
   “Hey Midge, I’m right here so you don’t need to shout,” said Jake. “What is all the excitement about?”
   “Have you seen Gabby today?” asked Midge.
   “Not today, no,” said Jake. “What has Gabby done now?”
   “Why do you want to know if he did anything?” asked Midge.
   “It’s because every time you get all excited and looking for Gabby, he has usually done something wrong,” said Jake.

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

Laughter Can Hurt

   Gypsy was a cute little gray kitten with bright yellow eyes that were crossed. She would always run into things when she tried to go around them.  She would proudly pick herself up and continue on her way.  She didn’t understand why she kept running into everything.  She felt as if she were terribly clumsy.
   One bright sunny morning, the birds were singing high above and the smell of roses filled the warm air.  Gypsy was sitting on the porch soaking up the morning sun.  Across the yard, she saw her friends, Midge and Jake, enter the yard.  Midge lived up the street from Gypsy and would come over to see her on the way to the park a couple mornings during the week. 

Monday, August 1, 2011

Chachi is sad

     “Jake! Jake!” called Chachi as he slowly walked up the walkway to the porch.  “What are you doing today?”
      “Hi there Chachi,” greeted Jake.  “Why are you looking so sad this morning?  Are you okay?”
      “Not really,” answered Chachi.  “Can I sit here for a while with you?”
      “Sure Chachi,”  said Jake.  “You know you are always welcomed to come sit a while or come play with Midge and I.”
      “Thanks Jake,” said Chachi.
      “So, are you going to tell me what is bothering you?” asked Jake.  You look like you lost your best friend this morning.”

Sunday, July 31, 2011

Being Different

   Ginny was a long-haired sheep dog. She loved to run and play with Buster who was a large boxer. They could always be seen running and playing together in the large field behind the warehouses at the end of the street where Buster lived.  They would chase after the rabbits and squirrels.  One day, while they were playing, a big gray and white cat casually strolled into the field.
   “Hi there,” he said to Buster and Ginny.
   “What do you want?” asked  Buster.
   “My name is Simon,” said the cat.  “Can I play with you? You look like you are having a lot of fun.”
   “What?” asked Ginny.  “We play with you? Why would we want to play with you?”
   “Why not?” asked Simon. “I would like to play with you.”
   Ginny and Buster looked at each other and thought for a moment.  They both started laughing at Simon.
   “We don’t play with cats,” said Buster.  “We are dogs.”
   Simon stared with a frown and said, “You two are prejudiced.”
   “What!  Us!  Prejudiced!” shouted Ginny.  “You are crazy.  We aren’t prejudiced at all.”
   “Yes you are,” said Simon.  “You won’t let me play with you because I am different than you are.  That is being prejudiced.  I want to play with you and I don’t care that you are different.”
   Ginny and Buster looked at each other and Ginny said, “Are we Prejudiced Buster?”
   “I didn’t think we were,” said Buster.  “But if Simon says we are because we won’t play with him, I guess we are.”
   “Oh Buster,” said Ginny.  “We never let cats play with us.  Oh no Buster, we are prejudiced.  I didn’t know we were.”
   “I don’t want to be prejudiced Ginny,” said Buster.  “Jake always tried to teach us that we should all be friends.  I guess we never really listened to him.”
    “Maybe cats aren’t that bad,” said Ginny.  “You know, Midge and Jake always play with Booker-T and he is a cat too and they are dogs.  I guess if they can do it, we can.”
   Simon had slowly turned and was walking away from them to go find someone else to play with.
   “Simon,” called Buster.
   “What?” asked Simon as he stopped and turned to face the two dogs.
    “We are sorry,” said Ginny.  “We didn’t realize that we were being prejudiced because you are different.   We are sorry that we hurt your feelings.”
    “We don’t want to be that way to anyone,” said Buster.  “We feel that everyone is the same really.  Will you forgive us for being so stupid and come play with us?”
    “Oh yes,” smiled Simon.  “I would love to play with you.”
    “My name is Ginny,” said Ginny.  “And this is Buster.  Come on Simon, lets go play.”

Saturday, July 30, 2011

Better Dog Houses

    “Susie! Susie!” called Tiger as he strutted through the fence gate.  “Where are you?”
   Susie burst through the pet door on the back of the house, “What is it Tiger?”
   “Come on, lets go to the pond,” said Tiger.  “Come on, come on.”
    “What for?” asked Susie.  “Why all the excitement?”
    “Butch has gathered all the animals on the block to a meeting,” says Tiger.  “He wants us to be there also.”
    “What is it this time?” asked Susie.  “Last time he was trying to gang up on the humans to get more bones for supper. Doesn’t he have anything better to do?”

Friday, July 29, 2011

Brandy’s Problem

   Jake and Midge would take walks around the neighborhood once in a while before the sun came up. They enjoyed the quiet time of the morning.  This morning it was cool and the clouds were gathering slowly above them as they started their walk.  They had walked about a block when they neared the large white brick house at the end of the street.  The yard was closed in with a white picket fence.  Along the front of the house were beautiful pink, white and red roses.  On the front porch was an angry young woman who was screaming at a small brown puppy who was laying on the sidewalk near the steps.   Jake and Midge stood near the fence and watched in horror at the anger this person had toward the puppy.  Finally she went back into the house and slammed the door behind her.

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Jessie’s Endings

   Jessie was a cute little schnauzer puppy.  He was running after a bright red ball that his master, Billy was throwing for him.  He was running and jumping, so full of energy.
   “Billy!” called a soft female voice.  “Billy!  Come on in here and eat your lunch.”
   “I have to go in the house now,” said Billy.  “I will come back out and play with you when I finish my lunch.”
   Jessie sat and tipped his head to the side as he listened to Billy talk to him.  He looked sad as Billy entered the house.  Jessie climbed the back steps and lay down on the porch waiting for his little friend to return to play some more ball with him.

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Magic

    Bimbie was a tiny white puppy who loved to sit and tease Charlie, the green parrot, but she didn’t like it so much when Charlie laughed and teased her.  Charlie would sit on his perch and call to Bimbie and the laugh at her.
   “Bimbie! Bimbie!” called Charlie.  “Ha ha ha.  Bimbie looks funny!”
   “Shut up Charlie,” said Bimbie.  “You are all the time talking.  You are all the time bothering me.”

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Trip to the Mountains

   Tippy and Kiki decided one morning to wander off on their own little adventure.  They had gotten bored with what they were doing in the yard and wanted to find something more exciting to do.  Tippy wanted to know what was out beyond the big wooden fence that surrounded the yard. 
   “KiKi,” said Tippy.  “Why don’t we go out and find something exciting to do out there.”
   “What did you have in mind?” asked KiKi.
   “Show me the mountains,” said Tippy.  “I heard Jimmy’s mother and dad talking about them. I really want to see them.”

Monday, July 25, 2011

Lost and Alone

   Allie was a white Persian kitten who lived with a boy named Joshua three houses up from Midge.  Allie decided she wanted to see the great big world instead of staying in the cozy back yard of her master.  She set out alone and sauntered up the road looking at everything along the way.  But Allie didn’t pay any attention to where she was going and before long, she saw that she was lost and didn’t know which way to go.  She made several turns but just couldn’t figure out the right way to get back home.  She found a large rock beneath a tall tree and sat down to cry.  She really wanted to go home, but she had gotten herself lost.  Oh, why did I leave the yard?” thought Allie.  I will never find my way home now.  I’m so scared.”

Sunday, July 24, 2011

Biff, The Big Tiger

   Biff was a little black and white kitten. She lived in a big brown house with a little girl named Mary.  Biff would lay on the bed with Mary while she watched the shows on TV.  Biff especially liked the animal shows.   There were so many animals that it was hard for him to imagine them all.  After a couple of hours, Mary let Biff out into the back yard so he could run and play.   When Mary shut the door, Penny and Booker-T ran into the yard to play with Biff. 
   “Hi ya, Biff,” said Penny and they approached Biff.
   “Hi Penny,” said Biff.  “Hi Booker-T.  What are you two doing this morning?”

Saturday, July 23, 2011

The Courage to Say No

   Tippy was a cute little Chihuahua puppy who liked to run around the back yard and play with his friend KiKi.  KiKi was a chipmunk who lived behind the garage.  Tippy ran into KiKi one morning when he was running from his master while he was playing.
   “Tippy! Tippy!” called KiKi as he came running around the garage.  “Where are you ?”
   “Hi KiKi!” shouted Tippy as he jumped off the back porch and went running across the yard to where KiKi stood near the garage. 

Friday, July 22, 2011

The Neighborhood Bully

    Chachi used to be a big bully when he moved into the neighborhood up the street from Jake.  Then one day, Midge put up with him for the last time.  She went to Jake and asked him for his help to put a stop to Chachi and his bullying. 
     “Jake,” called Midge as she strolled up the sidewalk to the front porch. 
     “Hey Midge,” said Jake.  “What brings you over here this late in the day?”
     “You know Chachi, right?” asked Midge.

Booker-T is Grounded

   Mitzie just finished her bath and her mistress clipped her and put tiny pink bows behind each ear.  She pranced around the yard showing off her pretty new bows to Jake and Midge when Booker-T walked up and joined them.  She was so proud of her pretty pink bows and her clean smelling curls.  She batted her big brown eyes at Booker-T trying to get his attention.  But he wasn’t paying much attention to her.  He had sat down on the porch swing. She huffed and stomped her feet, but still Booker-T didn’t seem interested in what she was doing.   What could be so interesting to him that he doesn’t even notice me?” thought Mitzie.  He has never completely ignored me before.”

Monday, July 18, 2011

Where the Roads Lead

   “Jake! Jake!” screamed Midge as she came running across the yard and up the sidewalk to the porch.  “Jake!  What are you doing?”
   “Slow down Midge,” said Jake.  “What is all the excitement about this morning?”
   “We are going on vacation,” said Midge. “I am actually going to take a trip Jake.”
   “Who is going on vacation?” asked Jake already starting to feel like Midge was leaving him all alone.

Sunday, July 17, 2011

Chachi Wants to Fly

    “Hello Chachi!” called Jake as he and Midge ran into the back yard of the green and white house on the corner of Elm and Sycamore Road.  “Hey! What are you doing?”
    “Not much, Jake,” answered Chachi.  “What are you and Midge up to?”
    “We are going to the park for a swim,” said Jake.  “Do you want to come along with us?”

Saturday, July 16, 2011

Doing it My Way

    Susie followed Midge and Jake to the park to play with Snappy.  As they approached the pond, Susie took off running to the edge of the pond. She stood staring into the water. 
   “What are you looking for Susie?” asked Midge.
   “Fish,” said Susie.  “I know I have seen fish in here before. I want to catch a fish”

Friday, July 15, 2011

The Darkness

    Molly was a cute little beige and white kitten.  She was frolicking around the yard with her friend, Chi Chi.  Chi Chi was a small black and tan Chihuahua who lived next door to Jake.  They were chasing each other and rolling around in the soft grass.  Molly looked up and saw the sun was beginning to sink lower and lower from the sky and she quickly ran and huddled next to the big oak tree near the house. 
  “What’s the matter Molly?” asked Chi Chi.  “Why are you hiding between the house and that tree?”

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Promises

     Sissy was walking through the garden with her head high.  Near the garden pond sat Pepper.  He was a large muscular looking cat.  Sissy strolled slowly up to the pond and then sat beside Pepper who was swishing his paw around in the pond.
   “What are you doing?” asked Sissy.
   “What does it look like I’m doing?” asked Pepper.

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Willie the Bunny

    Willie was a little brown bunny.  Every day he would hop and play around the bushes near his house.  He loved to sit and listen to the music of the birds as they sang high in the trees.  They sing real pretty,’ thought Willie.  I sure wish I could sing a pretty tune like they do.’
   One day as he sat staring at the trees and listening to the birds sing their pretty songs, a small tear rolled down his cheek.  Booker-T came around the corner and found him staring at the trees.  He sat down beside Willie.
   “What is wrong this morning Willie?” asked Booker-T.  “You look sad today.”

Sunday, July 10, 2011

Minnie and Polly

    Minnie and Polly were little beige and white twin poodles.  Cindy was their mother, a golden champagne colored poodle.  She is friends with Midge and Jake.  Cindy was sitting on the porch watching her two little ones chasing after each other across the big back yard where they lived with Cindy’s mistress.  They were yelping and leaping on top of each other as they rolled around in the soft grass.
   Cindy got tired just watching them running around with all their energy.  She went inside through the doggie door to get some water and lie down on the soft rug near the door where she could keep an eye her two little ones.  Before she knew it, she had drifted off to sleep.  She didn’t realize how long she had slept when she awoke.  She could hear the two still yelping at each other.  When she went outside to check on them, she found paper torn up all over the back yard.  The clothes were pulled down from the line and their toys were all over the yard.

Friday, July 8, 2011

Love Among Animals

     Sissy was a black Persian cat who lived in the big white house on Vickery Hill road.  The yard was filled with huge oak trees and a colorful array of flowers placed around the yard of deep green grass.  A warm breeze blew across the porch ringing the chimes that hung along the front of the porch.  She lay curled up on the porch in the sunshine that shone through the trees.   She raised her head and saw Jake and Midge coming up the walkway.  
    “Hi Sissy,” called Midge.  “What are you doing this morning?” 
    “Hi Midge,” said Sissy.  “Hi Jake.  What are you two doing this morning?”

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Andy and the Frog

    Andy waddled out onto the back porch into the glistening sunlight of the early morning. Andy’s little brothers and sisters were all asleep snuggled closed to their mother just inside the back door.  Andy liked to investigate his great big new world outside.  He had been checking everything out in the back yard.  He didn’t want to miss a thing.  As the birds sang high above in the trees, he sat tilting his head from one side to the other trying to figure them out.

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Mitzie and the Squirrel

   Mitzie was asleep on the back porch swing in the warm morning sun.  The birds sang their pretty songs high above her in the trees and a small brown squirrel scampered around the back yard gathering nuts and burying them under the big oak tree by the fence.  Mitzie heard a noise as the squirrel ran across the porch dropping a nut as he passed under the swing.  Mitzie raised her head as the squirrel jumped from the porch and ran to the tree. 
   Mitzie leaped up from the swing and darted across the yard after the squirrel. The little squirrel quickly ran up the tree and sat on the lower branch looking down at Mitzie. 

Sunday, July 3, 2011

Skipper and Pepper

   “Pepper!” shouted Skipper.  “Where are you?”
    Pepper didn’t answer as he was crouched down behind the bush near the garage.
   “Pepper!  Hey Pepper!” shouted Skipper again as he raised his voice a little louder.  “Get your four little legs over here!”
   “What do you want?” asked Pepper as he came walking out from behind the bushes.
   “Why are you hiding back there?” asked Skipper.
   “Because you are mean to me,” said Pepper.
   “Where are the chew boned you had?” asked Skipper.  “You need to bring them here to me.”

Thursday, June 30, 2011

Midge Gets Dessert

  “Midge!  Midge!” called Jake as he approached the house.  “Where are you and what are you doing?”
    Midge poked her head out around the corner of the house and called out to Jake.  “I’m back here in the back yard Jake.  Come on back.”
    “What are you doing back there?” asked Jake.
    “I’m waiting on my mistress to bring me some dessert,” answered Midge.
    “Dessert?  You get Dessert?” asked Jake as he raised his eyebrows at her.

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Gabby Strikes Again

   “Hi there Jake,” called Booker-T as he wandered up the sidewalk to the front porch. “Where is Midge this morning?”
   “She hasn’t gotten over here yet,” said Jake.  “We are going to the park when she gets here. Do you want to go with us?”
   “Sure,” said Booker-T.  “I always like going to the park with you guys.”
   Midge came hurrying along the sidewalk and ran up to the porch.
   “Hey Midge,” said Booker-T.   “How are you this morning?”
   “I’m fine,” said Midge.  “How are you this morning Booker-T?”

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Midge and the Chaos

   “Jake!  Jake!” called Midge as she came running around the corner and up the sidewalk to the porch.  She stumbled up the porch steps and plopped down in the chair next to Jake.
   “What is the big hurry Midge?” asked Jake.
   “It is nothing but chaos.  That is all it is, Chaos!” spouted Midge. 
   “What in the world are you talking about?” asked Jake.
   “My backyard at home is nothing but chaos anymore,” said Midge. “Chaos has taken over.”

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Butch is at it Again

  “Jake!  Jake!  Where are you?” called Midge as she rounded the corner and ran through the gate and up the sidewalk to the porch. 
   Jake came running around the corner of the house from the backyard.  “What is all the excitement Midge?”
   “Have you seen Booker-T?” asked Midge.
   “No,” answered Jake. “What is the problem?”
   “His juvenile delinquent friend is the problem!” shouted Midge.
   “Oh, dear,” said Jake.  “What did Butch do this time?”

Friday, June 24, 2011

Jake Finds Midge Asleep

   Jake rounded the corner and wandered up the sidewalk to the front porch where he found Midge stretched out on the lounge chair.  Her little head propped up on the bit pillow that was at the end of the lounge.  He slowly tiptoed up the front steps so he would wake her up.  He stopped at the top of the steps when he heard Midge making funny noises. He leaned forward and perked up his ears to listen.
  “Hummmmm.  Ooooooh.  Hummmmm,” were the sounds coming from Midge.

Booker-T’s Find

     Booker-T sauntered up the sidewalk whistling a little tune.  He stumbled on something laying across the sidewalk. Bending over, he picked up something that looked to be old and scrapped up.  He picked it up and continued on his way to Jake’s place.
   “Hey there Booker-T,” said Jake as he turned the corner at the fence gate.  “What are you carrying with you?”
   “I don’t know,” said Booker-T.  “I found it on the sidewalk around the corner over there.”

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Murder Among Humans

   “Jake!  Jake!  Where are you?” screamed Midge as she ran up the sidewalk tripping on the bottom step as she started up to the porch,  "Jake!  Where are you?  Come out, come out wherever you are."
   Jake came scampering around the corner of the house and leaped up the steps. 
  “What are you so excited about Midge?” asked Jake.
  “Guess what!” said Midge.

Midge is Concerned

   “Jake, Jake!” called Midge as she ran up the sidewalk and up the stairs of the porch.  “Jake, Jake!”
   “Slow down Midge,” said Jake.  “What are you so excited about?”
   “It’s a catastrophe!  That’s it a catastrophe!” said Midge as she paced back and forth across the porch.
   “What are you talking about?” said Jake trying to calm her down.
   “Oh, it is absolutely awfu1! Just awful I’m telling you!” said Midge as she continured to pace back and forth. 
   Jake reached out and grabbed Midge by the collar and sat her down in front of him.  “Now! What is so awful and such a catastrophe?  You are wearing me out with your pacing back and forth.”

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Jake’s Lack of Energy

  Jake and Midge strolled along the sidewalk and turned into the yard and Jake barely got up the steps to the porch when he plopped down on the old chair.
  “Do you want to play with Booker-T at the sandbox today?” asked Midge.  “He should be over in about an hour Jake.”
   “Where do you get all your energy?” asked Jake. “I’m so tired trying to keep up with you and running with Butch part of the time, really finished me off.”

Just an Old Geek

   “Hi Jake,” said Midge as she hurried up the sidewalk to the porch where Jake was laying in the sun.
   “Hi there Midge,” said Jake as he slowly raised his head.  “Want to join me in this spot here?  The sun feels so good this morning.”
   “Are you going to the park today?” asked Midge.
  “I sure am,” said Jake. “I’m waiting on Booker-T and Gabby. They are supposed to be coming along with us today.”

Monday, June 20, 2011

Gabby’s Vanity

   “Hey Midge!” called Jake as he strolled up the sidewalk to the front porch.
   “Hi Jake.  What are you up to this morning?” asked Midge.  “You are a little late coming over this morning.”
   “Have you seen Gabby this morning?” asked Jake.  “We were supposed to go to the park to play with Snappy and Booker-T.  Are you coming along with us?”
   “Sure,” said Midge.  “I was waiting for my mistress to leave for her job.  You know I am always ready to go play in the park.”

Lets Go Swimming

   Midge and Jake walked to the park looking for Snappy.
   “Hey Snappy!” called Midge as they approached the pond.  “Where are you hiding Snappy?”
   “I’ll bet he is on the other side of the pond under the shade tree over there,” said Jake.  “Come on, lets run over there and check to see if he is there.”
   “Sure,” said Midge and took off running, leaving Jake trailing behind.
  “Hey Midge! Slow down,” said Snappy as he poked his head up from beneath the water.  “What is the big hurry?”

Midge is Grounded

   “Hey Midge!” called Jake as he ran up the sidewalk to her front porch.  
   Midge was laying on the chair beside the front door soaking up the sun and slowly raised her head when Jake approached.  “Hi Jake,” replied Midge.
  “What are you doing this morning?” asked Jake.  “I missed you.  I thought we were going to the park this morning to play with Booker-T and Snappy, but you never came to my house like you usually do.”

The Lost Keys

   Midge came wandering up the sidewalk to the front porch at Jake’s house.  Jake wasn’t outside like he usually is every morning.
   “Jake! Jake!” called Midge.  ‘Where are you Jake?”
   She sat staring at the door and heard no one opening the door.  She looked up and down the street but Jake wasn’t walking along the sidewalk either. 
   “Jake!” called Midge again.  “Jake!  I’m here!  Where are you Jake?”

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Midge Finds out About Slow Dancing

   Jake and Midge walked across the street to the park and raced across the grass to the pond. 
  “Snappy!” called Midge as they neared the edge of the pond.
  Snappy poked his little head around the corner of the tree and smiled at them.  “What are you doing?”
   “We were looking for you. We are supposed to go see Lindsley this morning and wanted to know if you and Gabby want to come along with us,” said Midge.
   “What are you going to do over there?” asked Snappy.  “Don’t you want to go swimming in the pond today?”

Midge Predicts the Weather

  “Hey Jake!” called Midge as she climbed the steps to the porch.  “What in the world are you doing?”
  “Just laying around enjoying the cool morning,” said Jake. “We sure haven’t had too many really nice cool days this year.”
   “I know it,” said Midge.  “It is going to be a really cold winter though,” said Midge.
   “And you are who?” laughed Jake.  “The local weather dog?”
   “That is my prediction today,” said Midge. “It is going to be a cold winter this year.”

Saturday, June 18, 2011

Jake’s Concern About Booker-T

  “Hey Jake!” shouted Booker-T as he strolled up the walkway to the front porch of the house where Jake lived.
  “Hi there Booker-T,” replied Jake.  “What are you up to this cool morning.”
  “Not much Jake ole buddy,” said Booker-T. “Just out messing around.  My friend Butch went to the vet with his master.”
  “We all have to go there once in a while,” said Jake. “It isn’t a big deal.”
  “Not me old pal,” replied Booker-T as he pranced around the porch switching his tail back and forth.
   “Oh, right!  I forgot, you are the perfect one,” said Jake.  “No need for a vet, right?”
   “That’s right Jake.  I’m the picture of perfect health,” said Booker-T. “Can’t you tell how great I am?”
   “Come on now Booker-T, haven’t you ever gotten sick or needed your yearly shots?” asked Midge as she strolled up the sidewalk to the porch.  “I heard you telling Jake you are so perfect.”
   “That’s right Midge. I never get sick,” said Booker-T.
   “I’ll bet your new mistress will take you and get your shots soon,” said Jake.
   “She hasn’t said anything about taking me to the vets,” said Booker-T.  “If she does I will hide from her until she forgets the crazy idea.  She should know I'm fine without going there.”
   “I worry about you Booker-T,” said Midge.  “You roam around with your homeless friends and you could get sick doing that.”
   “Not me Midge,” said Booker-T.  “I stay healthy all the time. I am careful with what I do and where I go.”
   “Just wait Booker-T,” said Jake.  “I’ll bet you will go to the vet soon.”
   “No,” said Booker-T. “She won’t take me.”
   “Oh, that’s right, you are so perfect,” said Jake.
   “Oh wow!” said Midge.  “I didn’t know you were that perfect.  That is amazing Booker-T.  You the perfect cat.”
   “You have it right, Midge,” said Booker-T.  “I’m the perfect cat and my mistress knows it so she won’t be taking me to the vet.”
    A big blue car pulled up in front of the house. “Isn’t that your mistress Booker-T?” asked Midge.
   “Yes,” said Booker-T. “I wonder what she is doing here. She must be needing me to go home now.”
   “Booker-T!” called a voice from the car.  “Come on Booker-T.  Lets go.”
   Booker-T ran for the car and when his mistress opened the door to let him jump in the car, Midge and Jake heard her say,  “Lets go Booker-T.  We have an appt with the vet for your shots this morning.”
   The door to the car closed behind Booker-T and Midge and Jake saw him with his nose pressed up against the window shaking his head at them and trying to tell them he needed their help to break him out of the car.  Midge and Jake just waved good-bye as the car drove away.

Lindsley is Lost

   “Jake! Jake!” shouted Midge as she raced up the sidewalk and through the gate to the front yard.  She raced up the steps to the porch and slid into Jake who was lying in the sun. 
   “Slow down Midge,” said Jake. “What are you shouting about and why are you in a hurry?”
   “Oh, Jake! She is lost!” said Midge.  “She is lost!”
   “Now don’t panic Midge,” said Jake. “Who is lost?”
   “Lindsley is lost,” said Midge.  “Lindsley is lost. You have to help me find her.”

Friday, June 17, 2011

Midge Sees an Angel

   “Jake! Jake!” called Midge as she ran along the sidewalk and slid into the fence as she attempted to go around the corner and through the gate.
   “What is wrong with you Midge?” shouted Jake. “Slow down before you hurt yourself.  You look like the demons are after you.”
   “Guess what!” said Midge, barely catching her breath. “Guess what Jake!”
   “Get your breath and then talk to me,” said Jake.  "Sit down here and take some deep breaths."
   Midge took three deep breaths and then started to rattle on about what she saw on the corner near her house.  “Oh, Jake, you should have seen it.  It was so great. I’ve never seen anything like it before.  You won’t believe it Jake. You just won’t believe it.”

Booker-T and the Turkeys

    Jake and Midge were lying on the porch soaking up the morning sun.  A cool breeze blew gently through the trees and fluffy white clouds slowly drifted across the blue sky. The mornings were quiet since school started and the kids weren’t running around the neighborhood playing ball anymore.
   “It sure is quiet,” remarked Midge.
   “Isn’t it nice?” asked Jake.  “I love the quiet mornings.”
   “Yes it is nice. I was really getting anxious for school to start so I didn’t have to listen to all the screaming kids anymore for a while,” said Midge.  “The little boy next door was really getting on my nerves.”

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Jokes on Booker-T

    Jake and Midge were lying on the front porch watching the kids roller skating on the sidewalk.
   “Wouldn’t it be neat to skate like that Jake?” asked Midge.  “Just moving along the sidewalk on wheels.”
   “I don’t think it would be real easy to stay up on those wheels,” said Jake.  “I like my feet flat on the ground.”
   “Hey you two!” called Booker-T as he wandered up the sidewalk.  “What are you two talking about this morning?”
   “Midge thought it would be fun to skate,” replied Jake.  “Like those kids over there on the sidewalk across the street.”

Midge Gets Upset

   “Jake!” called Midge as she hurried up the sidewalk to the front porch where she found Jake laying in the sun on the lounge chair.
   “Hi Midge. What are you up to so bright and early this morning?” asked jake. “You usually don’t get over here until later in the morning.”
   “It is madness!” shouted Midge.  “Madness!  That is all it is!”
   “What in the world are you babbling about?” asked Jake. “What is madness?  What happened now?”

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Booker-T’s First Kiss

    Booker-T sauntered up the sidewalk to the front porch looking like a proud peacock, “Hey you guys!”
   “Hi Booker-T,” said Jake.  “Aren’t you looking all proud this morning.  You are looking so happy."
   “What are you doing this morning?” asked Midge.  “Where are you going?”
   “Just wandering around,” answered Booker-T.  “I’m on the way over to Crissy’s.”
   “Oh, the cute little Persian next door to you and Midge?” asked Jake.

Jake’s Dream

   “Hey Jake!” called Midge as she ran up the sidewalk to the porch.
   Jake didn’t answer her.
   “Hey Jake!” called Midge again.  When she stepped onto the porch, she saw Jake sleeping so sound and the legs were moving.  “Hey Jake!”
   Jake jerked awake and jumped up.  “Midge! Wow you scared me.”

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Booker-T in Trouble

    “Hey you two!  What are you up to?” called Booker-T as he came bouncing around the corner and sauntered up the sidewalk to the front porch.
   “We are just laying here in the nice sunshine.  I has rained for so long that it is nice to just lay here and soak up some sun,” answered Jake.
   “What are you doing this morning?” asked Midge.
   “I am in need of some help,” said Booker-T.
   “What do you need help with?” asked Jake. “I can’t imagine you needing help for anything.”
   “Not you Booker-T.  The cat about town needs help,” said Midge. “What could possibly be the problem that you need help with?”
   “Well, you always seem to know a lot of things because you listen to your mistress talking,” said Booker-T.  “And I haven’t had a home with humans for very long so I don’t know as much.”
   “Being with humans or not, what could I possibly help you with that you don’t already know?” asked Jake.

Dancing Midge

   “Hello Midge,” called Jake as he wandered up the sidewalk.  “What are you doing?”
   Midge was pacing back and forth, side stepping and running around and around on the porch.  Jake thought she was throwing a fit or something.
   “Midge!” called Jake again. “What in the world is wrong with you? Are you okay?”
   “Oh, hi Jake,” said Midge.  “I am just fine.”
   “You don’t look fine,” said Jake. “I have never seen you acing so weird before.  Why are you so jumpy?”

Monday, June 13, 2011

Booker-T Meets Evil

   “Jake!” called Midge as she came strolling up the sidewalk to the front porch where she found Jake laying in the sun.
   “Hi Midge,” said Jake. “What are you doing this morning?”
   “Have you seen Booker-T this morning?” asked Midge.
   “He ran past here a little while ago,” replied Jake. “He was moving so fast, you would have thought that something evil had a hold of his tail.”

Booker-T and the Ghost

   “Hey Jake!” called Booker-T as he came running around the corner and slid on he sidewalk as he came through the gate.
   “Slow down Booker-T,” said Jake.  “What is the hurry?”
   “Did you know that there is a ghost haunting that house on the corner over there by Sam’s Café?” asked Booker-T.
    “What are you talking about?” asked Jake.  “There is no ghost in the house over there.”
    “How do you know that Jake?” asked Booker-T.

Sunday, June 12, 2011

Booker-T and the Haunted House

   Booker-T wanted to enter the big brown building next to Sadie’s Café. The windows had been boarded up about a week now and Booker-T figured he might find some mice in the place.  All he could think about was chasing them and catching a nice big gray mouse for dinner.  The thought pulled him closer and closer to the scary looking place.  It looked so deserted and dark and he had heard the kids in the neighborhood talking about how the place was haunted.  He wanted to go in, but was afraid of running into a ghost.  He sure didn’t want to run into one of those spooky creatures.  No, not Booker-T.   He was a big chicken when it came to those things.
   “Hey there Booker-T!”  called Jake as he and Midge walked up. 
   “What are you two up to this morning?” asked Booker-T.
   “We thought we would take a walk and wander over this way.  You have talked so much about this haunted house over here and we wanted to see it.  It doesn’t look like it is haunted,” said Midge.
   “How can you tell that from here?” asked Booker-T.
   “Well, it just doesn’t look scary from here.  Do you want to go in?” asked Jake. 
   “I don’t know,” answered Booker-T.  “I keep looking at it and pacing back and forth trying to get the courage up to go into the place.  Do you want to go in  with me?”
   “Not really,” answered Midge staring at the house as if she was waiting for something to move.
   “Are you scared?” asked Booker-T. 
   “No, I’m not scared,” said Midge
   “Well then, why don’t you come in with me?” asked Booker-T.  “I dare you to come in with me.”
   “Will you come in with me Jake?” asked Midge.
   “Are you sure you really want to go in there?” asked Jake.
   “No, I’m not sure,” said Midge. “But you know Booker-T. If I don’t go in with him, I will never hear the end of it.  He will call me scaredy cat for the rest of my life.”
  “Yeah, but don’t you think it is dangerous going in there?” asked Jake.  “We don’t know what dangers lurk behind those boarded windows.”
   “Oh, come on you two,” said Booker-T.  “We will be safe if we stay together in there.”
   The three inched closer and closer to the steps of the house.  Slowly they climbed the four steps to the door as their breathing got deeper and faster.  They each could feel their hearts beating inside.  A lump formed in their throats as they reached for the door.  With paws shaking, Jake pushed the door open.  It was dark inside and they could barely see into the darkness. 
   “Come on, lets go in,” said Booker-T.
   They hesitated at the door a moment and then stepped into the dark room.  At the end of the hall, they could see a faint light from under a door.  They slowly moved to the center of the room, staying close to each other. They were so close to each other, that they could feel the beating of each other’s heart.  Inch by inch they crossed the room. 
  “Something smells awful in here Jake,” said Midge.
   “I know it. I wonder what it is?” asked Jake.
   Booker-T walked to the hall and started toward the door at the end of the hall where the light was coming from. 
   “It stinks down there Booker-T.  Are you sure you want to go down there?” asked Midge.
  He ignored the smell and Midge’s talking.  But once he got down the hall, he was ankle-deep in yucky green goo, so he began to rethink his desire to know what was behind the closed door.  He ran back to where Jake and Midge stood waiting for him.
   “Don’t you want to go in with me?” asked Booker-T.
   “No!” said Jake and Midge in unison.  “We are fine right here.  What is that green goo all over your legs?”
   “I don’t know. It is sticky too,” said Booker-T as he stood there shaking each paw one at a time.
   Suddenly a howling noise was heard from behind the closed door and the three ran for the front door so fast that they were stumbling over each other trying to be first out the door. At the sidewalk, they turned to stare at the house.
   “Yep, it’s haunted,” said Booker-T.
   “ I think you are right,” said Midge. “Lets get out of here.”

Booker-T is Shaken

    Booker-T rushed up the sidewalk and jumped on the porch barely touching the steps on the way up.  He ran behind the chair and crouched down shivering.
   “What is wrong with you?” asked Jake.
   “I faced death!  I knew one day I would have to face death, but not now!  Not now!” screamed Booker-T.
  “What are you talking about?”  asked Jake.  “Where in the world did you face death and when?”
   “I was at the park.  Death often slips into one’s life like a thief or crashes into it like a drunk, but never did it walk in the door and shake one’s hand, until today,” said Booker-T. 
   “What are you ranting about?” asked Jake.  “When did death shake your paw?”
   “This morning!  This morning Jake!” screamed Booker-T.  “Are you not listening to me?  Right before I came over here.  It was there.  It was big as life in front of me.”
   “Hey you guys,” called Midge.  “What is wrong with Booker-T?”
   “He is losing it,” said Jake.  “Something about shaking the hand of death. I can’t make any sense of what he is ranting about.”
   “Booker-T, are you okay?” asked Midge.  “Why don’t you sit down and I’ll get some water and you tell me all about it.”
   “I’m okay, just a bit rattled,” said Booker-T.  “Have you ever shook the hand of death before?  No, don’t answer that. You probably haven’t.  I shook the hand of death this morning. He walked right up to me and grabbed me around the collar and yanked me down on the rear end.”
   “You were probably dreaming  Booker-T,” said Midge.  “Death wouldn’t walk up and grab you by the collar and set you down.”
   “Jake, come over here,” said Midge nudging him to come aside with her away from Booker-T where he couldn’t hear her.
  “What are we going to do with him Midge?” asked Jake. “He really seems rattled by whatever it was that happened in the park.  Do you think that Gabby might know?  He is always around in the trees somewhere hanging out.”
   “What are you two doing over there?” asked Booker-T.  “Aren’t you the least bit worried that my time might be up soon?  I probably don’t have much time left on this earth and you are over there whispering.  Death will be coming for me soon.  I just know it.”
   “Will you calm down Booker-T,” said Midge.  “No one is coming after you soon!  Now settle down and take a deep breath and then tell us what you saw.”
   “Well, I left the house and wandered to the  park like I do almost every morning,” stated Booker-T.  “The park was quiet and I walked over to the pond looking for Snappy.  He usually tries to help me catch a fish in the morning for my breakfast.  I was sitting by the pond waiting for him when in the water, that is where I saw it.  It was really big!”
    Midge leaned closer to Booker-T.  “What was really big?”
    “Him! Death! The one who took my hand,” said Booker-T Shaking.
    “You saw his reflection in the water?” asked Jake.
    “That’s where I saw him.  He was scary with the hollow face with the black eyes and the big cape over his head.  Black cape and carrying some kind of weird thing that looked like a big curved knife.  I just knew he was going to get me and drag me dead away,” said booker-T.
    From above the house, Jake could hear someone laughing. Suddenly Gabby appeared and came rolling off the roof and hit the ground in front of the porch.  He was rolling around laughing so hard that he caught the hiccups.
   “What are you doing up there Gabby?” asked Midge stomping her foot at him.
   “You fell for it,” laughed Gabby as he pointed at Booker-T.
    “Fell for what?” asked Jake.
   “Booker-T has been feeding you a line. He was really laying it on and you were really starting to believe him. I can’t believe he got you back big time and you fell for it Midge,” laughed Gabby.
   “You are mean, Booker-T.  You scared me!” screamed Midge as she kicked him in the rear and booted him off the porch into the rose bush.
    “Ouch!” screamed Booker-T rubbing his rear end.
    Jake and Gabby laughed at Booker-T sitting in the rose bush rubbing his rear end. 

Saturday, June 11, 2011

Eric and Being Dead

   “Jake! Jake!” screamed Eric as he ran up the sidewalk and skidded in the puddle, and slid into the tree.
   “Eric, what in the world are you doing?” asked Jake.  “Trying to kill yourself?”
   “Oh, no!  I might be dead, I might be dead!” said Eric. 
   “What are you talking about?  You aren’t dead,” said Jake.  “I can see you.”
   “I might be.  How do you know for sure?” asked Eric.  “Do you really know that I’m not dead?” asked Eric

The Scary Movie

   “Hey Jake, what are you doing?” asked Midge as she strolled up the front porch steps.
   “My mistress left the TV out here on the porch and I’m watching this weird program.”said Jake.
   “A movie?” asked Midge.
  “I don’t know.  Not sure,” said Jake.  “It was on when I came out here.” 
  “Why did your mistress put the TV out here?” asked Midge.

Friday, June 10, 2011

Midge and the Neighbors

    Jake walked over to see what Midge was doing this morning. He was up early and thought he would go to her place this time.  He found her rolling in the grass laughing.
   “What are you laughing about Midge?”  asked Jake as he approached her.
   “Oh, Jake, it is just too funny.  Too funny,” said Midge.
   “What is so funny?” asked Jake.  “It must be really good.”
   “Oh it is. You just wouldn’t believe it,” said Midge.  “Do you remember Jim and Shirley?”

What Happened to Jorge

   “Hey Jake!” called Booker-T as he rounded the corner of the house.
   “What are you doing this morning?” asked Jake.
   “I was out chasing down mice again. Found a couple out by the old wood pile behind the garage,” answered Booker-T.
   “Did you get them?” asked Jake.
   “Sure did,” answered Booker-T.
   “Hey Jake!” called Midge as she came scurrying up the sidewalk.
   “We are back here in the back yard Midge,” called Jake.
   “Hi you two. Did you hear the news?” asked Midge.

Thursday, June 9, 2011

Midge Sings

  “Heavenly shades of night are falling, it’s twilight time.  Out of the mist your voice is calling, it’s twilight time,” sang Midge as she danced across the front porch.  “When purple colored curtains mark the end of the day, I hear you my dear at twilight time.”
  “What are you singing Midge?” asked Jake as he approached the porch.
   “Hi rhere Jake.  I’m singing Twilight Time. Do you like it?” asked Midge.
   “You sure sound pretty Midge,” said Jake.
   “I’m glad you like it,” said Midge.
  “I didn’t know you could sing,” said Jake.

Booker-T the Hunter

   “Jake!  Midge!” called Booker-T as he turned the corner and ran up the sidewalk to the front porch where he found Midge and Jake napping.  “Wake up you two!”
   “What is going on Booker-T?” asked Jake. 
   “Hi Booker-T,” said Midge. “Where are you going?”
   “I’m on my way to the park to do some hunting,” said Booker-T. “You know me, Booker-T the hunter.”

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Midge Wants to Learn About Direction

   Jake and Midge were out walking along the sidewalk on the warm Saturday morning when Gabby swooped down at them.
   “Hey you two, where are you going?” asked Gabby.  “Are you going to the park?”
   “Yes, we are,” said Midge.
   “Aren’t you going in the wrong direction?” asked Gabby.  “The park is the other direction over that way.”

Jake and Midge Meet Lindsey

   Lindsey was a little poodle that lived on the big street on the other side of the park from Jake and Midge.  She moved in with her master a week earlier, so she was new to the neighborhood.  She would sit on the big swing on her front porch and watch all the kids playing in the park and the cars going back and forth on the street.  She looked a little sad as she watched the world going by.  She didn’t know anyone in the area yet.  Jake and Midge were at the pond chasing fish with snappy when Gabby flew down and started chirping at them and jumping up and down on the lower limb of the oak tree. 
   “Gabby, what is your problem this morning?” asked Snappy.

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Midge and Puzzles

   Midge strolled up the sidewalk to Jake’s place and found him sitting on the porch watching the neighborhood boys who were sitting at a table that his mistress had set up on the porch. 
   “Hey Jake, what are you doing?” asked Midge as she climbed the steps and sat next to Jake.
   “Hi Midge,” said Jake.  “I’m watching them put together a puzzle.”
   “What is a puzzle?” asked Midge.  “I’ve never heard of a puzzle before.”

Midge Wonders About the Sea

    Midge ran down the sidewalk as she headed to Jake’s so they could take their morning stroll through he park with Snappy. She got to the front gate of the house and it was shut and locked.  This is unusal,’ thought Midge.  ‘Jake always is home waiting for me to come by so we can go to the park.’  
    “Jake!” called Midge from the sidewalk. “Oh Jake!  I’m here. Where are you?” 

Monday, June 6, 2011

Midge and the Lace

   Midge came strolling along the sidewalk and passed by the open gate to Jake’s front yard.  She noticed Jake laying on the porch but didn’t say a word to him as she passed the gate. She walked to the next house and then turned and strolled back past the open gate.  Again she didn’t glance his way.
  “Hey Midge!” called Jake.  “What are you doing?”
  “Oh, hi Jake,” said Midge as she came through the gate and slowly sauntered up the walkway to the front porch. “I didn’t see you laying up there.”

Jake and Midge

Jake and Midge
Jake and Midge with Booker-T