Christmas Party

Lady's class made gingerbread stables, then ate them. Lady brought hers home and shared. I love holidays!

My Stocking

My stocking was in the box that finally came from China. We don't have a chimney, or even a banister. In the case, you can see where we have received some Christmas cards from friends in America. Lady gets so excited whenever she gets a card! That's usually my role! I'm excited every time Lady walks in the door. Notice our new potted plant? A family moving to Thailand gave it to us! Thank you A & M!

It's a lot warmer here in India than it was in China. By now I was always wearing a sweater or a coat. Sometimes I even walked in the snow and wore my sweater AND a coat. It's chilly in the mornings and evenings, but very warm during the day.

We're both excited about our first Christmas in India. Lady has two Christmas functions tomorrow. She is having lunch with her Korean student's family, and then going to a church's Christmas dinner with Pastor Sam. Monday, her ESL class will be coming over for their Christmas party. I love Christmas parties! We're also planning our party for the tent kids. Every day they ask for food and clothing. Lady's students gave some candy to give them. We hope to give each family a blanket, a hot meal, and some provisions. Of course, I am planning the street dog party. I'll be giving out doggie cookies and flea spray. For Christmas Eve, Lady and I have been invited over to Auntie Beth's to spend the night! I'm taking my stocking! And my blankie, and my rug, and my Pooh coat, and my doggie dishes...

My Box Finally Came!

Our tree was a little bare, but yesterday, my box with all our Christmas ornaments and decorations arrived from China. We've been waiting for months! It had been opened but we think everything is there. Lady was most concerned about her handmade ornaments by her Gram. They are precious to her. She also has ornaments made by other family members, friends, and former students. Some of them Lady made. She also has ornaments from different parts of the world. She used to leave these packed in a box at my American grandma's home, but she decided to keep them with her and use them. The tree holds many memories that way. I have several ornaments on the tree. I have an apple with my name on it from my first Christmas with Lady. I have a stocking ornament with my picture in it! Speaking of stockings, that's what I was concerned about. Where would Santa put my presents? If you want to see photos from past Christmases, check my archives. Lady was glad to get some of her craft materials in the box. She had her class Christmas party today. I got to go after school to help Lady pack up. I got some of the gingerbread stable the kids made. Auntie Beth not only brought the gingerbread stables, she also brought candy canes. She told them the candy cane story. I already know that story. We used it in China last year to share the true meaning of Christmas. Lady and her friends gave out thousands of candy canes with the Christmas message. We had so many Christmas parties last year. So many of the Chinese wanted to know about how Americans celebrate Christmas. I think they just wanted Lady's cookies. Now that her cookie cutters have arrived, she will be baking some Christmas cookies! She makes a batch of doggie cookies just for me. I will share them with the street dogs.
Auntie Al left for America, but we don't know if she has arrived yet. We miss her.

I'm Helping

I'm helping pass out the new shoes! The kids came running when they saw Auntie Al and Lady bringing bags to their tents. Unfortunately, we didn't have shoes for the little bitty humans or the older kids. They kept following us and begging for shoes, but we didn't have any to give them. Pastor S had to yell at them and tell them to quit. We've told their parents that when we have things to give them, we will bring it to them. But they come to our gate and yell, "Auntie, Auntie, biscuit, Auntie, bate (clothes), Auntie..." Our landlady gets upset with Lady, and Lady gets annoyed. When we give them things, they always want more. Lady says we must do what we can and leave the rest to God. It is not our place to judge them. I was good. I didn't bite the boys who were grabby and following us. They just want some shoes. I don't know why. I don't wear any. It's not just the kids who come to our gate and beg. The street dogs come and whine! We have a rule: we never give out anything from our gate. It seems as soon as the kids learn the rules, they go back to their home village and new ones come! We have to start all over again. Some of our favorite kids have gone back to their home village. Their neighbors say they will come back in a month. Even when they are annoying, Lady and Auntie Al still love them, care about them, and want to help them. And so, every day, I walk Lady through the neighborhood, and we try to love on them a little bit.

New shoes!

New shoes! We brought the school kids here for Children's Day. They practiced their local language with the people. The students in Lady's school donated clothing for these poor kids. It's been cold, so she is very happy to have long sleeves and jeans.

These kids were so happy with their new shoes!

Giving

Today we went to the tent families to distribute shoes that Auntie Al's mom had sent, plus some Lady had bought. We saw them Sunday afternoon. This little one was sick because she was so cold, so Ladyand I went back and took them some more clothes. They like me. Lady and I walk by their village every day. They run out to see if Lady has any biscuits (cookies) to give them. While there I ate some poop and now I am not feeling well. Lady was furious with me. What can I say? I am a dog. Lady can tell I don't feel well because I didn't dance for Beggin' Bacon Strips (my favorite). I am droopy. I wanted to go unstairs and see our landlady but I didn't want to climb the stairs. Lady wouldn't carry me. I just stood therewaiting for her to come carry me, but she wouldn't. The other little one in the photo is wearing some clothes we brought her, and the new shoes. Pastor S. went with us to translate. He speaks several languages. Not all of the tent families speak the same language. Some speak Telagu or Tamil, or the local language. We are going to serve a meal to these families on Dec. 21st. It's a Muslim holiday so they won't be working, but they will work on Christmas. They do construction work and follow the work. They set up their tents near the construction site. While their, one of the moms used the pastor to translate for her. She had tried to tell Lady the other night that when we gave away gift bags on Children's Day, women from the other tent village snatched the bags from three of their kids. It may be true, it may not. Lady saw them with the bags. Sometimes they hide what we give them to try to get more. The children claim they didn't get any shoes when they have them behind their back. We have seen moms snatch gifts right out of the hands of little kids and give them to their own kids. Lady gets mad. She tries to give to all of them, and she knows who she has given to. Still, they will claim they didn't get anything. Sometimes it gets really cutthroat as they push and shove and even grab at Lady's bags. Lady says we have to remember that they are poor, and are just trying to do the best they can for their kids.

I share, too. I shared some of my Pedigree dogf ood with one of the street dogs. She had a litter of pups but they died. Our neighbor wanted to build up her strength. Now she's gone. I have donated to other mom dogs as well. Lady says I should share with the poor street dogs.

Christmastime is Coming!

How do you like my new tree? It's short like me. Lady still isn't used to the prices here. We had a much nicer tree in China, but I like this one just fine. My stocking is somewhere between China and here. I sure hope it gets here. All of our decorations are in that box, so we only have a few decorations right now. Lady wanted to decorate now because Auntie Al will be going home for Christmas soon. Auntie Al popped popcorn to string on the tree, but they ate it.
Well, I am all up to date on my rabies shots. Lady took me ot the White Coats here. I was hoping they didn't have White Coats in India. If you have been reading my blog, you know how I feel about going ot the White Coats. I thought we were out for a nice ride with friends. Millie, the cutest little wire-haired dachshund you have EVER laid eyes on, was also in the car. Well, as soon as we entered the building, I figured out where we were. White Coats hurt little dogs. They stick us with needles. This White Coat was no different, except he spoke English instead of Chinese. I was good. I didn't bite him. Millie cried. She also got her second rabies series, and had her nails done. I won't let them touch my nails, but she's a female. I can't wait until Friday! Millie is coming for a sleepover until Monday! Her humans are going out of town. I can't wait until she grows up! I will be sure and post some photos.
My human grandparents in Florida sent me two Christmas gifts! I have to wait. Auntie Susan in Florida sent me my favorite Beggin' Strips. Lady gave me some to help me feel better about getting stuck in the you-know-where.
It's cold in the mornings and evenings, at least it is for little dogs. I wear my Pooh coat. But, it is nowhere near as cold as China. You can check my archives and see photos of me walking in snow! It doesn't snow here. It's hot during the day.
You can write me at littledogmarley@hotmail.com

Counting My Blessings

It's Thanksgiving Day and Lady says I should count my blessings. As we took our walk this morning, I noticed the street dogs I usually try to ignore. They were sleeping in the streets, in dirty holes by the road, and in garbage piles. A mama dog Lady feeds (some of my dogfood) is already searching for food. Her ribs poke out of her skin. She looks so tired. I am so thankful I have a nice home, a huge bed, Lady to take care of me, filtered water, good food (even though Lady doesn't give me enough meat to suit my fancy), lots of friends, toys, a rug, my own chair, and coat to wear on cold mornings. I see the street dogs shivering in the cool air. They are scratching. I am thankful Lady puts that strong medicine on my back to keep the fleas from multiplying. I am thankful for my chair, from where I can survey the street and all who come and go, including the water buffalo. I am thankful for the medicine Lady shoves down my throat when I have a cold. I am already feeling better. I had a fever and I was sneezing. When the street dogs get sick, they die. Just last week the little white puppy got sick and died. Yes, I have many blessings. I know I will be fed and taken care of. I know where to find clean water. Lady is always telling me to be sweet to the street dogs and not bark at them. They can't help being poor. And when she gives some of my treats and food to the poor, I shouldn't try to snatch it back.
May God richly bless my readers this day, and may you count your blessings. It's hard to be grumpy when you're thankful!

Still Diwali Time

I can't believe there are even MORE fireworks tonight! They've been going on all day but the big stuff is tonight. Lady says she has only seen these kinds of fireworks done by professionals on the Fourth of July and at the theme parks - not in front of private homes! Huge fireworks burst into several colors high overhead. They also roll out yards of firecrackers and set them off. They take almost thirty minutes to finish popping! My landlord's son said there are 50, 000 crackers in them. Some have 10, 000 or 1,000 crackers. The people across the street are rich so they are setting off the expensive fireworks, and LOTS of them. The neighbor two doors down is also setting off the huge ones. They are so loud! Lady says it sounds like bombs going off. They are so close! They are being lit just 15 feet from our home.
I am glued to Lady and shaking like a leaf. Auntie Al went to church, but Lady wouldn't leave me. I am so glad. She already took me outside before all the loud stuff started, so I am in for the night!! There are NO dogs on the street now. Even cars have to wait for the huge strings of crackers to finish! What a night!

I hate India

Well, I hate India- today anyway. It's Diwali Festival time. You may remember that I am not fond of firecrackers and fireworks. I am a little afraid of them. Okay, they terrify me. Well, they began last night and went on ALL DAY today. Tonight is a really big night for firecrackers and bombs and other kinds of explosions. Festival of Lights? What's wrong with candles? The Indian schools were out today. Lady's kids jumped out of their skin whenever the bombs and crackers went off. Made for difficult learning. She doesn't know why on earth they had school today. The streets are littered with remnants of the fireworks. The street dogs are hiding. Even the water buffalo stayed home today. They didn't walk our street past the early morning. Lady stepped in evidence on her her way to school and tracked it into her classroom. She had to clean it up before the kids came in and noticed the awful smell. Her day didn't start off very well. Then, all day long, "BOOM! KaBOOM! BANG! BANG! BANG! POP! POP! POP! SIZZLE SIZZLE BOOM!" I was so happy to see Lady come home from school. She tried to take me for a walk but I didn't want to go. She had to drag me out the gate. We walked to the end of the street and turned around. I couldn't get back to my house fast enough. Last night I went as far as the bush outside my gate and wouldn't go any further! Inside, I stay glued to Lady's heels. While she is on the bed, I am UNDER the bed. It's safer. The landlord's van is right outside our window- inches from my chair. The car alarm has gone off three times in the last hour. I hate this day. Auntie Al felt sorry for me and gave me some of her hamburger for dinner. Lady gave me some leftover paneer masala. Lady has earplugs but I don't. They help a little but not much. You can't imagine how bad it is. When India won the cricket championships, we thought we were under attack! Well, this is WORSE. Lady says it is twenty times worse than their fourth of July celebrations. Well, this little dog is staying inside and under the bed.

Buying Flowers for Dewalli Festival

The marketplace was so crowded! Not a good place for short dogs.

A Few People

More Flowers

In the marketplace

Lady passed temples and mosques of all kinds.

Festival Time at the Market

Yesterday, Lady left me home and went with friends to the huge city market area. She said a little dog would get stepped on. Looking at her pictures, I agree. It is near festival time, so many people were out buying parafin lamps, firecrackers, and flowers. Lady went to the flower market and couldn't believe all the flowers!

Online at Last

The broadband man finally showed up on India time. It's almost as bad as China time. I've been having to write at Aunt K.'s on Sundays. Lady still isn't very happy because her phone isn't working right. She can't call her mommy. And we aren't going to Aunt K.s this Sunday. Lady's praying she can get the phone to work.
Well, I had a traumatic walk with Lady after school today. That big, black, bully with the stumpy tail attacked me again. Last time he left a small hole by my eye. Lady shouldn't see it until it formed a scab. He bit me again but she can't find a hole yet. I sneezed and pawed at my face afterwards, so she thinks he got me. She whacked him on the nose with a stick and he reluctantly backed off. His mommy came out and called him back, but didn't put him in the gate. Several tent children had been walking with us and they ran back. Just a bit up the road, five more small kids ran up to Lady and took her hand.She was walking along with them when she suddenly realized she didn't have her keys!!! Oh, no. Big problem. Did the other tent kids slip them out of her hands? Did she drop them during the melee with the bully-dog? I didn't know. Lady starts praying to God to help us find the keys as we turned around and dashed back up the street. Oh great. Back to the bully. We were looking everywhere and there they were, in the street where she had whacked that bully on his snout. She was so relieved, and started thanking God! Many people were around but no one had noticed the keys! Amazing! Lady says it was God.
I got extra attention because of my difficult time, but no meat. Oh, well.

Sunday Again

It's Sunday again. Technically, Lady can sleep in a bit longer because I go with her to church. But, I can't tell time. I wake her up about the same time everyday, school or not. When I find out it is raining, however, I return to the warm comforts of my bed. We've had quite a bit of rain lately, here at the tail end of the monsoon season. It's rather chilly for a short-haired dog.

Rain or shine, the buffalo wander by, leaving the evidence behind. I am not allowed to poop where anyone can step in it, but I guess the buffalo mommies aren't as strict as mine.

Lady, Auntie K. Auntie Al, and the whole school went on a neat field trip Friday. Little dogs couldn't go. The kids went to an environmental education center to learn more about God's world and how to take care of India's resources. Saturday, Lady, Auntie Al, Auntie K. and the others had a fun day welcoming new Americans to the city. Lady knows one family from China. They weren't in my city so I don't know them. Their two kids are going to Lady's school. She is so happy to have them in her same city again. Lady was going to take me but thought that I'd be too high maintenance with all the goings on. They had carnival activities for the kids, and sack races. There are a lot of street dogs around, but I met them when we lived out there. I don't know why she couldn't take me. I would have been a good boy (mostly). Milly got to go. Lady says she and Milly's mom have arranged a marriage for us when Milly grows up some more. That's the way they still do things here in India. Arranged marriages are common. Lady wanted me to be with my own kind. Milly is a black and tan wire-haired dachshund. I hear she is quite the looker, but I haven't met her yet. Her family fell in love with me when I went to visit their home, so they searched and searched for Milly. I can't wait! I can't wait! But Lady says I have to. She is only three months old.

Shopping

Auntie K. and Lady went shopping yesterday but didn't last long in this 'hood.

More Tent Kids

Tent Kids

Photos from the 'Hood

This is another one of the tent kids we pass most mornings and evenings.

In the 'Hood

This little guy runs out whenever we walk by. They live on the backside of our block. Lady took her camera out this morning, and all the kids wanted their photo taken. This little guy always cries out, "Auntie, bye! Auntie, bye!" over and over again. It rained and poured yesterday and last night. I didn't want to go out, so I peed on the landlord's car tire. Lady washes away the evidence. I woke Lady up very early again. Ha! She thought she would be able to sleep late during her week off! Well, this little dog needs to go take care of business whether it is vacation time or not. I know just how to get Lady to get up. I Stand on her chest, pull the covers off her face and lick her until she relents.
The humans here aren't used to little dogs like me. The street dogs are big, the dogs humans get are very big. So, they actually ask Lady if I am full grown! They ask how big I am going to get! Yeah, like I am going to grow long legs and become a doberman!
Lady loves me. I know because she bought ground chicken for me and cooked it for me!! She has a special pan for cooking meat, and a special spatula as well. I know she loves me because she gave me some cheese pizza from Domino's last night. Auntie Al and Lady were trying to make the most of the last days of their holiday. I am atAuntie K.'s now and will wait while they go to big church. Somebody's got to hold down the fort!

Holidays

Lady has the whole week off! Yipeee! She took a day trip to a nearby city to see a palace. She left very early in the morning and didn't take me. She did take me out to take care of business before she left. The Landlord's sons came down to take me out later in the morning. I hid. I am not supposed to leave my house without Lady. I love Sucil. She gives me chicken parts. So I followed her upstairs, hoping for some chicken. Every morning I run up the stairs in search of chicken. Some days I am rewarded and some days rejected. After a while of lounging around on the porch, I took the boys for a walk around the 'hood. They carried Lady's stick, that reminds the street dogs not to mess with me. We saw my friends Doe and Dino. And, of course i had ot dodge the buffalo piles. The are huge and very green!
Lady came home about 9:00 pm, so I took her out for a walk. The little tent children run and greet us and grab Lady's hands to walk with us. She sings songs with them as we walk. Children's Day is Nov. 14th. Lady's students are planning to do something for the tent kids. They are learning to speak the local language. So am I. I will learn whatever gets me meat. The students will sing some songsthey are learning. They are preparing gifts for the kids. Yesterday, Auntie Al, Lady, and a friend gave away some used clothing to the boys on the street. They were so happy to have Spiderman shirts, jeans, and plaid boxers. The girls got candy and stickers. Lady doesn't have enough clothes for all the girls yet. She is trying to collect some baby clothes because they either have on a shirt or nothing at all. The moms came out and begged for the tee shirts even though they swallowed the little boys. One of the older boys really wanted this hooded red jacket that was too small. He wanted ot try it on so Lady let him. He was convinced it fit him. He was so happy to have htat jacket! His mom was so happy she made a funny trilling sound. Lady felt bad she didn't have more clothes, but she is working on it. We see them every day and do what we can. I donate treats and dogfood, and flea treatment to my friends on the street. I try to set an example and not poop where humans can step in it, but the street dogs and the humans still need improvement in that area. Lady has paintings in our home painted by the kids on day - on Gandhi's birthday. The loved the watercolors and used up the whole palette! Lady bought them nice brushes but is not sure what they did with them. Now they come up to her and say, "Auntie, paint?" Or they say, "Auntie biscuit?" "Auntie, chocolate?" And most recently, "Auntie bate?" That means clothes. They need clothes.
Lady found out that a government school picks them up at 10:00 am and takes them to a school and feeds them. They come back at 2:00pm. Some of our neighbors are very kind to these poor kids, and give them leftover food, and cookies. The children sweep the driveway and get some treats for their work. Lady thinks the children are beautiful. She says God loves them so much. But they don't even know it.
I like having Lady home, but she stays busy. I go with her as much as possible. For some reason, I am not allowed to do my own shopping here as I was in China. I don't know why. Oh well. After all, I am just a little dog.

Update

Lady's been having internet issues, so I have not been able to update my blog. I've heard my friends are concerned about us. We're fine. Some things in India are about like things in China, such as trying to get anything done! We are on a long waiting list for our internet hook-up. We're told that paying a "facilitation fee" may speed things up. This is the kind of fee you get no receipt for. Anyway, we're at Aunt Kay's using her connection. While Kay and Lady were at church, I held down the fort. When they came back I seized the opportunity to rush out the gate after three cats who had been tauting me. Lady wasn't happy with me and made come back inside before I had a chance to catch one. Speaking of cats, I tried my best to get to the cats that crawled up inside our landlord's vehicle. Lady thought I was stuck, and crawled under the van to try to get me out. She was happy when she discovered I wasn't stuck at all, but just chasing another cat. But, she made me come in anyway. She WASN'T happy about getting down on all fours trying to get me.
We have been having torrential rainfalls. It makes walking difficult. The water in the streets comes up to my chest and i get covered in mud. It's hard to avoid the water buffalo patties when you can't see them. Lady was still at school working on Friday when it began to rain so hard. The playground turned into a lake. Rain blew in her windows and doors and soaked the floors. It comes so fast. I had to wait awhile before I could go out and teetee. I never go inside. I put on my raincoat and went out. It was only drizzling. Lady walked me for quite awhile because she was afraid it would rain again and we wouldn't be able to go outside again before bed. The tent children rush up to Lady and shout, "Auntie! Auntie!"
We ordered pizza from Domino's. I ate the garlic cheese bread and Lady's leftover crust. Aunt Al gave me dip.
I've had a lot of visitors lately. Lady and Auntie Al named the spayed female Doe, because she looks like a deer. Doe really likes me. She tries to climb through the gate. Sometimes she howls to get my attention. She manages to get our landlady's attention, however, and she shoos DOe away. When she wags her tail, it doesn't go side to side but around in a circle! My other regular friend is Dino. Lady says it's a he, but I get confused because some parts are missing. I think it's a girl, and I sniff her a lot. S/he doesn't seem to mind. Anyway, when Dino wags his tail his whole hind end wags. Lady gives them both treats.
So, we're both fine, just very busy. Lady had Open House at school last Thursday. It went very well. All of her students' parents showed up. The students sang some songs. Friday, they had an American picnic for their social studies unt. Lady made potato salad. They had KFC, and apple pie! I didn't get any though.
E-mail me and I will write back when I can. We sure will be happy when we get broadband!

Party!

I hosted a party for the local American ladies yesterday. Lady, Auntie Beth and Auntie Al made the food. I like the carrots with Ranch dressing dip. My friends Auntie K. ,Auntie A, and Auntie Tina all came. They played with me. I had to give up my chair for the occasion because we had sixteen ladies in our home. I was so busy greeting all my guests, making sure everyone felt at home, and cleaning up any food they dropped on the floor. After they left, Lady and I went for a short walk, then I took a nap. I think all had a good time.

Where Buffaloes Roam

Water buffaloes that is! They walk by our home every morning and evening, and by the school as well. They leave behind "evidence" that is difficult for a short little dog to avoid. But it dries up and cars run over and squish it. Then, the next day there's more fresh piles. It looks like a parade when they go by. I don't bark. What's the use. They don't bother me.

These are just the tail end of the babies. I'll get Lady to post some of the big guys that walk by.

PE Class

Lady helps teach PE classes. The kids were learning to do sit-ups.

Week's Over

This is Lady's class. Lady is so busy with school now, but not too busy for me. We've had lots of visitors, and of course, I meet so many people as we walk. Again this Sunday, I walked with Lady to Aunt K.'s so she could call my grandma and grandpa. I waited at Aunt K.'s while they went to church, then walked Lady home. Lady has a new Chinese goddaughter at the church. She's from Burma. She came to visit Friday and Saturday. I can understand her. She is so happy to have someone to speak Chinese with. They went shopping yesterday. Lady came home with new clothes. So did Aunt Al.

Playing in the Street

Here's another picture of the tent kids on our street playing with bubbles.

Chasing Bubbles

I like to chase bubbles (and cats, of course). These tent kids on our street had fun chasing bubbles Aunt Al blew for them. Aunt Al lives with us and helps the teachers at the school. These little humans belong to a low caste of construction workers. They follow the construction jobs and erect tents on any open spaces. We have three tent villages on our street. Lady gives them wheat milk biscuits and other stuff. She calls them "babies." They come run

ning when they see us coming, calling, "Auntie, Auntie! Biscuit? Biscuit?" They speak the state language. I am learning it. Lady hasn't had lessons yet, so she can't really say with words what she wants to say. But there are other ways to communicate. She can't understand what they say except for "Auntie" and "biscuit." They love me, of course, and call me by name. I am very patient, but I don't like so many hands on me all at once. Sometimes there are so many little tent kids out on the street when we come by!

First Day of School

Lady's school began today. Yesterday, I went with her to help get things ready. I checked on Aunt A.'s room for the 5th, 6th, and 7th grades, and I visited in Aunt K's room to see if she needed any help. Our new roommate, Aunt Al also worked all day at the school, preparing for the students. Lady took me home for lunch, and I stayed to take a nap. Lady and Aunt AL returned to school to make sure the rooms were as beautiful as possible, and that everything was ready. Lady prepared a reading room with soft mattresses and pillows. I really like that room. Baskets of books sit on the floor by the mattresses. Today, Lady read Flat Stanley to her class. The students liked the room. There's no doorknob on their door, so they have to lock it from the inside and go out the reading room door! The kids have to learn to tune out all the noises of the neighborhood. One of Lady's students wanted me to be the school mascot! But I think they might be called the buffaloes, because daily a herd of baby buffaloes walks by. I didn't go today. I'm homeschooled. Someone has to take care of things on the home front. I went up and visited the landlady who was faithful to give me some meat!
Lady, Aunt Al and i played with the tent kids today. Aunt Al is teaching them games. She took out a bubble machine yesterday. They squealed with delight. She taught them how to play duck duck goose. Lady left her camera at school so I'll have to post photos another day. We finally got dial-up, but are still waiting for broadband. I'mfinding out that India time is something like Chinese time -it's much longer than they say.

Scolded

I got in trouble again. Lady came home to find I had been rummaging in the trash. It wasn't the one with food scraps in it. She put a mop on top of that one so I couldn't get it open. I got in the one for paper and plastics. I littered the whole kitchen floor. Lady had come home with Aunt K., Aunt A., and the girls. Instead of getting to play with the girls, I got a scolding and time out. Lady follows the one minute per year time frame, so I was released after six minutes, but it seemed like forever. You'd think I'd learn. But this morning, I stayed at Aunt K.'s while they went to big church and guess what? Yep. I got into Aunt's trash. Scolded again.

Curious Neighbors

Curious neighbors of the school watched all the goings on. This little boy is made up to look like a girl to ward off evil spirits. We know it's a boy because he wasn't wearing any drawers! Most of the time, Lady can't tell if it really a girl, or just a boy with make up and a pony tail. We have lots of them on our street in the tent cities.

Playground?

This empty lot by the school was full of debris and large weeds last weekend. That was last Saturday's work project. I wasn't allowed to come due to the bulldozer. It might squish curious little black dogs. Some of the kids

are trying it out. It still needs a thick layer of sand, which is expensive right now due to the truck strike. They also need to buy some new play equipment. I wanted to play, too, but there's no fence to protect a little dog running loose.

Reading Space

The little humans worked hard sweeping the floors and getting the areas ready to move stuff in. This room next to Lady's can be used for a reading corner. Be sure to remove your shoes or clean your paws before getting on the rug.

Lady's Classroom

Some of the kids arranged the desks in Lady's classroom. I'm in the boys' row. She told them that they could arrange it however they wanted, but if they didn't pay attention, Lady would rearrange the desks!

The Dedication

These are some of those who came to the dedication of the school. I am the short one in the middle.

POOPED PUP

I am worn out! I went to the new school today to help out the humans, and for the dedication ceremony. You may remember me telling you that in China, any building construction or renovation calls for the killing of a chicken, and the splashing of it's blood on the corner. Here in India, the Hindu workers have some similar dedications, so it was important to the teachers and families to dedicate the school to the Most High God, and rid the building of other gods. They didn't use blood, but grape juice, as in the Lord's supper. I was a good, quiet boy. I know how to behave during such serious occasions.

New Baby

This is my living room with our new cushion covers. I really like my chair, but it is so high! After all, I'm just a little dog. Lady put my new blanket on it. Today, all the teachers went shopping for school supplies. Lady brought home a new baby for me! I really like it. I haven't torn it's head off yet, but there's time. We had to walk over to Aunt K.'s home to use the internet. We just got a landline today, but no internet yet. That phone man made me go in the bedroom or he wouldn't come in! Imagine.
Hey! I have news. We're getting a new room mate in our second bedroom. She's coming very soon, from Virginia. I am so excited. Maybe she will bring me a treat! We are getting ready for her!

Our Home

This is our new home -the whole house. Earlier, Lady posted a picture of only the ground floor. Now you can see the whole house. We live on the ground floor, the landlord's family on the first floor, and there are two small flats on the second floor. In one efficiency, a school volunteer "Aunt Al" will live. She's coming in about a week. Lady and I will watch out for her. Maybe I will even take her for walks. It is still challenging to walk in our 'hood. There are so many street dogs. They aren't very friendly. Lady's friends, T & T, walked with us Friday night and showed us how to keep the street dogs away from me. We have to establish a route, and carry a big stick. Lady has to yell, "hey!" This morning, Lady's stick was missing, so we had a harder time walking to church. I stayed at Aunt K.'s while they went to church. Later, I got to stare at that crazy cat. I love going to Aunt K.'s. I got into Aunt K.'s trash and put a n empty tuna can on her sofa. Busted. I guess i should have put it back. Aunt K. didn't even scold me but Lady sure wasn't happy. I am supposed to be a good boy while I am visiting. After all, I am just a little dog and that smell was so strong!

The other challenge to walking is the mud. I wore my raincoat this morning, so that helps me keep from getting totally muddy, but not much.

My New Door

I love my new door! I can see out! There's a

lso a thick wooden door with lots of locks on it, but when Lady's home, I can use this one! My first night was a long one. I heard ever sound, everytime the landlords went up or down, all the neighbors, all the dogs...And Lady was so conscious of me responding to all the new sounds that she didn't sleep much. My second night was better. I am more used to my surroundings. As soon as I got here, I checked EVERYTHING out. Then, I climbed thestairs and went in the landlord's home and checked every room. Then, I climbed the stairs and checked out the room on the top floor and the roof! I checked out everything I could. In the mornings, I climb the stairs to great the landlord's family. Of course, they like me. But, they haven't given me any meat. Lady bought me a new blankie, since she cut my apart to make it small enough to bring. I really like it. I have a new rug as well. We don't have internet yet so it may be awhile before we can post regularly. But, we're in our home now. Lady says we don't have to move again for a long time. I sure hope not. But for me, home is where my rugs, my blankie, my bowls, and my Lady are.

CRAZY CAT

Can you believe this guy? First, he has the nerve to lay outside Aunt K.'s gate and taunt me. Now, he actually comes inside the gate! I can't fit through the bars, or I would have been out of there and after that cat. But now that he is within reach, I am not sure what to do with him. He just strutted around, sniffed the door mat, and generally caused me grief. Finally, he sauntered on out the bars of the gate and meowed at me. Hah! I let him off easy!

Rainy Days and Mondays Never Get Me Down

I was sitting by the gate watching the world go by (and watching for that cat). Lady noticed that I was shivering. After all, I'm just a little dog and I get cold easily. So, Lady dug out my raincoat andput it on me. I was much more comfortable. Last night, I didn't have my coat on when i ran all the way up the stairs to the roof. Lady couldn't figure out how I got so wet. She followed me up the stairs and discovered the reason! I stopped off on the first floor (as the Europeans say) to see if the little humans would give me any meat. They didn't, so I returned to Aunt K.'s home and resigned myself to eat my dry dog food. Lady didn't want me eating any table food because I ate too much meat and gravy, and it upset my system. Today, I am right as rain! I don't really like the rain, but with my coat on, I can stay mostly dry. I am not good with umbrellas. Lady has to hold it for me. Lady says this is out last night at Aunt K's. I can't wait to see my new flat. Will there be as many street dogs as there are here? Will our landlord like me? Can I stay outside and look out the gate? I guess I will just have to wait until tomorrow.

Church

On Sunday, Lady went with Aunt K., Aunt A.,

Uncle S., and the three little humans to church at a nearby seminary. Lady loved it! I didn't go. She wasn't sure if little dogs could come. Now, I am allowed in house church, but usually not big church. I do know how to sit still and be quiet though. Anyway, Lady said these two students from the notheast sang a beautiful song. The pastor talked with Lady about teaching English at the school. She's not sure yet, but would really like to help. Lady wants to sponsor a student. She said that some of the students don't have the money to pay for the tuition. Some of the students came all the way from Myanmar to study. Lady even heard about a Burmese-Chinese girl who is just learning English. The Pastor's daughter wants Lady to meet her. I want to meet her, too, because I understand Chinese! She has only been in India two weeks. Lady says this seminary isn't too far from our new home. Maybe she'll walk me over there to meet the students! There are 33 students this year.

Out The Gate

I love looking out the gate at Aunt K.'s house. There's so much for a little dog to see! For example, I can see the local ladies gather to fill their water jugs. The water is available three days a week. Lady says it reminds her of some other ladies who went to the well to fill their water jugs. Across the way, I see Sweetie watching her mom do the wash. She makes the same motions with her hands, as her mom beats the laundry on the stones. Sometimes she waves to me and tries to say my name. Soon, four little orphans are walking to school with their care giver. They stopped and said hello to me. And I love to watch that cat! I hope I have a good watching place at our new place.

New Bed

This is our new bed. We still need a mattress, of course. Lady is glad to have a big bed. We have a single bed at Aunt K.'s house and Lady says I crowd her. She doesn't take up too much room, but I like to share her space! Usually, I sleep at the foot of the bed, but this morning she woke up to find my head on her pillow. I will be glad to finally get into my own place, but I am really having fun visiting people. I climb the stairs to Aunt A. and Uncle S's home and watch their fish tank. I can't seem to catch any! I love playing with their three little human girls. They like me, and often accompany us on walks. They gave me roast beast last night! They are American just like Lady. I haven't met any Chinese yet. I am still getting used ot the Indians. I bark at Indian men. After all, I am just a little dog.

Our New Flat

This the front of our new flat. Pastor S is helping spray for bugs before we move in. The walls are a lovely Pepto Bismol Pink! The kitchen and second bedroom are blue. Once the dead bugs are cleaned up, Lady can start moving us in. We live on the ground floor of a three story home.

Staying with Aunt K

Well, our flat isn't ready yet and we needed to be out of the guest flat, so we are staying with another teacher from the new school. Aunt A. gave me roast beef and gravy! Of course, Lady mixed it in with my Pedigree dog food to help my constitution. When possible, I pick out the meat and leave the dog food. But with gravy I just eat it all. Aunt A. and Aunt K's house has a huge carport with a gate. They let me stay outside and watch the cat across the street. Some stray dogs and an occasional cow or water buffalo wander by, but I chase them off with my big-dog bark. I'm not allowed ot play with strays. Walks here have been challenging as the strays come running. Last night a pack of ten big dogs came running toward us. It was scary. Lady scooped me up in her arms. Most people carry a big stick when they walk. Lady doesn't want to do that but, after all, I am just a little dog. Maybe dog cookies will work!

Bulah Home

Here's another photo Lady took at the children's home. Recently, they all received new shoes.

Sunday, Lady and some friends went to Bulah Home to visit the kids. Lady's friends go every month. Lady taught them a song, others told stories. Lady said maybe next month I can go visit as well.

Life in the Guest House

Well, my rug is here, my blankie (part of it at least) is here, my bowls are on the floor, so this must be home for now. Lady has piles and bags of stuff for our new home stacked against the walls. Two other human couples are staying in the same apartment here. They like me, of course. Mr B will be the new principal at Lady's school. Mrs Z will teach music and be the school secretary. They moved out today into their new flat near the school. The other couple from Ft. Worth, Texas are leaving tonight. We hope our flat will be ready soon.
Life so far is pretty much like in China. I sleep with Lady, take her out on daily walks, and introduce her to people. I clean up anything she drops on the floor in the kitchen, and let her know when someone is at the door. I sleep when she goes away. Many humans have come by to visit me. The little humans especially like me. They give me treats so I show off for them. They speak English. The Indians also speak English, but they are a little harder for me to understand, so I just dance, sit, down, and roll on my back until they give me the treat. I'm not sure what they said.
Every morning and evening, I take Lady out for a walk within the hospital compound, where we are living now. There are a lot of stray dogs around, but they pretty much leave me alone. Lady is glad because I am not allowed to play with uninnoculated dogs. And they have fleas. Lady spent a lot of money buying me Advantage flea treatment, and put it on me. A flea got on me but jumped onto Mr. B! He wasn't happy. Something bit my hiney and I chewed the hair off trying to scratch it. Lady doctored it so now it is better, but I have a bald spot. Every morning we meet lots of lovely young Indian girls going to nursing school. Their colorful clothing flows in the breeze. They smile and giggle when I go by. This neighborhood has guards, just like my old neighborhood. They say hello to me, too.
I sure don't get much meat here. There are more vegetarians, like Lady! Can you believe it? I guess I better make more American or Muslim friends if I am going to get my meat! After all, I am just a little dog, and I love meat!

My Trip to India

I did NOT like the sky carrier. Lady let me stay outside the box for as long as possible, and she put my favorite Pooh rug, part of my soft blankie, and a chew stick inside, but I still hated it. Linda, Goldie, and Claude took us to the airport and stayed with us until we checked in. Finally, Lady apologized and stuffed me in the box. I cried. All of a sudden I was moving on a conveyor belt. Someone picked me up and put me in a cart and off we went. This was my first plane ride. It was noisy, and the whole plane shook. After a few hours, we got to Bangkok and they took me into a building. I thought Lady would come get me, but she wasn't allowed. I waited and waited. I didn't know we weren't home yet. It took Lady over an hour to process my paperwork through customs in Bangkok, and she tried to see me, but they said it wasn't possible.
After awhile, another human came and got me and took me to another plane. Over three hours later, the noisy plane landed again. That was the scary part. I waited. They came and got me and took me into the terminal. FInally, I saw Lady! I wanted out of this box, but a man said Lady had to claim her other bags first. Three little girl humans, new friends of Lady's, came and kept me company until Lady had her bags. At last she let meout! I was quite vocal about being out and seeing my Lady. I cleaned her face good and jumped all around. When she got my collar and leash on, I just wanted to go outside and go home. I didn't look right or left, just headed for the door. Curious humans parted the way, and even took photos of me. I just kept my heading and went out the door, pulling Lady and all her luggage behind me.
My goodness! India has as many humans, cars, motorcycles, and buses as China does! A little dog has to be careful. Lady thought maybe I needed to water atree, so she took me to llok for a place while the others waited with our baggae for the driver. I saw a car door open and I tried to jump in. Lady said, "that's not our car." So, we walked on. Another car door opend, and I tried once again to jump in. Again Lady said, "that's not our car." All I wanted to do was get in a car and go home. Lady gave up and walked me back to the waiting spot. Soon our car came. The driver opened the door and I jumped in. I made myself comfortable and waited for them to load the car and get in.
After about 45 minutes, we arrived at the guest house where we will be staying until our "flat" is ready. I checked things out, found Lady's bed, and jumped in. I made it safely to my new home in India!

Lady's Coming Back!

Lady's coming back! Betty, the little human I live with, told me! I don't know why she stayed away so long. She has never left me this long before! But all that matters is that she is coming back. Betty is sad, but Lady is going to choose a little dog just for Betty. Betty says I am moving! We're leaving China and moving to India!! Where is India? I don't know, but I guess I will find out. We have to take two planes. I don't know what a plane is, but I've been on buses and in taxis. You can be sure I will tell you all about it. My world is about to change.