The Adventures of Oscar and Alley

The baby gates have been removed, and Oscar is now left to fend for himself against our ridiculously playful and persistent puppy. He's been doing pretty well, and I would by lying if I didn't admit Oscar doesn't enjoy being chased a bit. Like any good older sibling, he does his fare share of instigating too.

Two weeks ago, we gave in to Oscar's demands that he be allowed to venture into the great outdoors, and fastened him into his harness and tie rope to prevent tree climbing or other heroic escape and instead enjoy Friday evening appetizers and cocktails in the backyard with Jon, Alley, and me.

We've started taking Alley hiking on Sqwauk Mountain, about 15 minutes drive from our home, on Saturday mornings. I get Starbucks in hand and we when nobody else is around, and it's pretty quiet, we let Alley run off leash. She does a great job staying close as long as she isn't distracted by people or other animals, and it's a great way to get her tuckered out. Jon and I can't really complain about the beautiful scenery either!
Last weekend, we spent Friday night learning to play Pinochle with our new friends from church, Rosemary and John, and on Saturday the Stefanski twins turned two! They had a crazy, over the top celebration as usual, and we were honored to be included.Tomorrow night we fly to Michigan to reunite with our family at a lake house. We're looking forward to seeing everyone, relaxing, and getting a much needed break from our menagerie.

Up next: Stories from our big trip home! Stay tuned!