Chloetry-Why do you smell like a horse?

I have to know, 

Where you go, 

It's what I fear, 

When you are not here, 

That you should have fun, 

Out in the sun.  

Without your favorite Chlo, 

Where do you go? 

Yesterday you came back, 

you had a small pack, 

Things that had a smell, 

I could tell, 

With one sniff with my nose, 

What you chose!

You came back with the smell of horse.

I was mad, of course.  

I know everyone loves the horse, 

What could be a greater force, 

but I know they could love Chlo, 

They just don't know, 

Take me to school instead, 

It will get me out of bed, 

Stop that horsing around, 

Bring me, the beautiful hound.  

Chlofused: What did I just do?

 I am so Chlofused I can't quite figure out what I am doing!  Yesterday started like every other day.  I went out and did some business.  While I was outside, I saw a terrible incident!  My mom's planter had fallen and spread all over the ground.  The flowers will never make it if the seeds are not in the soil!  I went straight into Sherlock Chlo mode and decided to do my own investigation.  As I was pondering the scene and marking the territory off, I caught a scent of something not so great.  It was most definitely not a smell from the grill.  As I followed the scent, I apprehended my first suspect:  a small garden snake.  I swear I was only going to question him, but Chlo the huntress came out.  I thought he would be the next great delicacy that would allow me to launch a new blog about food, but one lick and I knew it was no bunny.  The more I thought about the scenario, the more I truly believed that the snake was innocent.  I decided to close the case contributing the broken door to the large amount of rainfall we had over the last few days.  I hope my mom doesn't launch into Sherlock Kara mode and discover I am responsible for the end of our very dear snake friend.  I was so distraught I even did the slow motion guilty walk of shame into the house.  I believe my mom suspects something is up.   Hopefully she still loves me and give me my regular treatos.  I have a picture of our deceased friend, but I will spare you the agony.  

Know your role.

Biggest news ever!  My baseball card is here!  Chlo Klepp has been drafted to the cubs baseball team.  I wonder if Kevin Rizzo has a baseball card.  I will have to look that up!  I will admit I was surprised to be playing first base;  I thought Rizzo had it covered or at least would be training Kevin to take over that position.  He has small legs like I do.  I suspect they need more help in the bull pin which would be fine by me, because I heard they took up pickleball.  I know a lot about pickleball from my mom, so I think I would fit right in.  Who am I kidding of course I would fit in anywhere I went, because I am Chlo Klepp the superstar.  My mom thinks I am a little bossy, so she thinks I would be a good general manager to keep those players in line.  It is a lot of responsibility, and I don't know if they would want to cuddle their general manager.  But I live in the real world, I am not a pitcher or a general manager.  They hired me really for my bunny bounty hunter experience.  Wrigley field has to be kept free of vermin.  

Oh wait, I don't want to leave home without my mom.  Someone needs to supervise her in the backyard. This weekend we did a back yard beautification project.  I did a great job protecting the back yard especially when anyone or anything hit the back fence.  I put up a ruckus when my mom stepped onto the other side of our fence.  I think I have watched too many zombie shows, because I know when you leave the safety of the back yard, nothing good happens.  I really was expecting mom to be lost forever.  I had a lot to say as I watched her mow the backyard from my perch.  I sounded the alarm at every chance.  She is so lucky to have such a good lookout.  Good thing I have not signed my official contract with the cubs.  

 

Sherlock Chlo and the Case of the Missing Marigolds

Sherlock Chlo is back trying to solve two mysteries:  Where is spring? and Where are the Marigold seeds?  

The case of Spring:  I keep thinking the weather will wake up and smell the roses, so that things will warm up and we can plant our flowers.  They are taking up every inch of space in the house.  Who knew that I would even get tired of all the vegetation surrounding me.  The real issue is that mom can't cook much with all the flowers in the kitchen and I should remind you that I like to eat.  I also like hanging out in the back yard, but mom says it is too cold to go through the back yard beatification projects.  So where did spring go?  I have asked a few of my friends and they respond it is just Illinois.  So I guess mystery number 1 solved.      

The case of the Marigolds:  I convinced mom that she could plant seeds and they would be ok.  So, she went to plant the Marigolds that she harvested last year.  She went to the basement and they were not where she put them.  She found her other herb seed packets, but the Marigolds eluded her.  I used my sniffer to help, and determined that there were no Marigold seeds anywhere in the house.  Some dogs are trained to sniff out drugs, I am trained to sniff out Marigold seeds.  However, I am not very good at my job, because I didn't find any, but I do believe there was a memory in my brain that shows Christian cleaning out parts of the basement.  My theory is that Christian took the seeds and threw them in the garbage cans.  We called and interrogated him, but he pleads innocence.  I am now on the the mission to find some evidence.  This case has been very tricky.  My mom is distraught, and I need to get to the bottom of this.  

GMa and I on Mother's Day

PS.  I had a great mother's day with Mom and Gma

PSS  Happy Birthday Maggie!  I hope that Pearl is behaving for you. 

  

The morning WAKE up with Chlo Klepp

 

The morning wake up show with Chlo Klepp starts now.  Topics for today's discussion:  how many more days left of school, when is the warm up going to happen, what's on your plate, how to keep a busy agenda without midweek slumps, and finally what to tune into this weekend.  

First up:  Another morning wake up call.  Mom only has to do this 15 more times until summer break.  That is a good enough reason to be smiling this morning.  I know she is a little grumbly, but it is Friday and she got to wake up to me smiling.  

The warm up is still a few days out.  For this weekend, setting up the garden and planting flowers are possible, but the cold weather might stunt the growth.  There is rain in the forecast, so make sure to bring an umbrella and grab a sweater in the early morning.  I do not like feeling the chill.

Moving on to the next topic which is my favorite topic:  What's on your plate.  For mother's day, mom is bringing out the grill for porkchops.  My mom is also making a side of zucchini casserole.  Then for dessert, a Texas white cake which is the perfect addition to a mother's day celebration.  GMa will be impressed.  

Let's beat the midweek slump by getting up and taking your favorite dog outside for a walk.  The fresh air and sun does a body good.  After your walk, you can give your fur friends a belly rub.  Pets are a great answer to a happier day.  PS.  I accept all pets, belly rubs, and secret treats.  

Finally, what anthem are we listening to?  A little Lady Gaga:  Make sure to take time to love yourself and who you are, because Baby, you were born this way.  Even with my big ears, I am beautiful.  I couldn't agree more with Lady Gaga, I was most definitely born a superstar.  

My mama told me when I was young

We are all born superstars

She rolled my hair and put my lipstick on

In the glass of her boudoir

"There's nothing wrong with loving who you are"

She said, "'Cause he made you perfect, babe"

"So hold your head up girl and you'll go far,

Listen to me when I say"

I'm beautiful in my way

'Cause God makes no mistakes

I'm on the right track, baby

I was born this way

Don't hide yourself in regret

Just love yourself and you're set

I'm on the right track, baby

I was born this way

  

Chlo Love = Lasagna Love

 Mom is always trying to be a better person, so I thought I should try as well. I might have a lot of room for improvement.   Mom signed up to be a part of a group called Lasagna Love where we make Lasagna for people who either are working too hard to have a good meal, people who need extra support raising a family, or people who do not have enough to eat.  Mom says it helps build community.   Last night she got a request for a vegan lasagna.  Mom said she didn't know how to do this, so I examined four different recipes and here is what we came up with.

step 1:  boil the lasagna noodles.

step 2:  Use a food processor to chop up the carrots, celery, broccoli  (mom wouldn't let me use my teeth which is probably good because I might accidently swallow the vegetables)

step 3:  cut up the mushrooms and add spinach

step 4:  cook up the vegetables in the pan with onion and garlic

step 5:  add amino or soy sauce

Step 6: MY FAVORITE--- the layers.  

        a.  sauce

        b.  noodles

        c.  hummus

        d. vegetables

Repeat!

Step 7:  add the rest of the sauce

Step 8 top with roasted cashews (food processed with lemon and garlic)  

During these steps, I tried out a few vegetables.  I had a bite of broccoli and a bite of carrot.  Taste testing is an important part of the cooking process.  I did a very good job watching the lasagna cook in the oven.  The smells were quite good even though I was definitely missing the meat part.  I don't believe I was meant to be a vegan dog.  I will have to eat a few more vegan dishes to make my final decision, but in my dreams when my feet are running, I am dreaming about baby bunnies.  

Mom made a small portion for herself and she said it was deliciously nutty.  I am much happier when she calls the lasagna nutty and not me, but I am pretty sure Charlie is nutty.  He tends to guard the refrigerator and doesn't let people open the door very easily.  I keep telling him that we want the refrigerator door open to see what's cooking, but he is becoming more senile.  Silly Charlie.  I was feeling like a much better dog until I started making rude comments about Charlie.  I might need to make some more lasagna.  

Chlo-accessary- Much more than a dog

Mom is the most stylish person I know and she is making me an accessary to all of her best outfits.  I do believe that a black bag goes with everything especially when there is a cute me in that bag.  I can picture it now out on the town going shopping, out to dinner, a date, a movie, and so many other places all because of this bag!  The options are unlimited.  I do hope that we can go to the farmer's market next week!  That would be a great debut of the black bag.  I won't even have to walk which is especially important for long distance travel.  I am not lazy, but have very short legs.  Mom will carry me and I will be nestled so close.  I do want to make mom aware that this is a one dog bag, no room for Charlie.  I can only imagine how bad he smells and how often he would step on me.  I do hope that mom starts carrying this bag soon!  I did notice that she left without me again this morning.  I even offered to jump into the bag.  For sure I'll get to go next time!  The greatest accessory is a small bag full of love.  I promise not to make too much noise, but a girl can't help it getting excited for the adventure to come.   

Chlo: Name That Smell - Grilling Edition

 The weather is finally warming up even though a lot of the days are spent inside with the rain.  Windows are propped open letting those beautiful outdoor smells into the house.  This is by far the best time of the year.  Some say Christmas, I say the day the windows are opened.  With better weather, the best of all smells are found with warm weather grilling.  I can detect what's on a grill from at least a mile away!  Last night my mom did a grill!  I smelled that food cooking and started drooling.  I could tell from the moment that sweet smell hit my nose that chicken was for dinner.  I then identified onion, pepper, and tomato.  Most people think I am known for my ears, but I am also known for my nose, and my nose was able to also detect mushroom, and potato as well.  The tricky part of this particular grill was the marinade.  However, with time I came to the conclusion that it had to be Tuscan sun dried tomato marinade.  It looked so delicious when it came off the grill, but mom is a huge disappointment.  I only got a potato, because it went flying across the room while coming off the skewer.  Luckily my quick reflexes and eyesight got the rogue potato before Charlie, but it only made me miss the chicken more.  I will have to keep my nose sniffing for the next steak that is on the grill.  Maybe I can fine tune my tracking skills and invite myself over for dinner!  

  

Identity crisis: Little Lion or scaredy Chlo?

 I had a traumatic day on Friday.  I went to the dogtor for a check up.  Charlie went in first, and I was thrilled when he went inside.  I thought he finally found his forever family, but then he came back out with the biggest smile ever.  Then, the lady wanted me to go inside without my mom.  Charlie was happy, so I thought it would be fine to follow this nice lady inside.  I just found out this thing called secret treats and I was sure that this lady had them.  I WAS TRICKED BY CHARLIE.  I entered the room without my mom, and they did these checks to see how I was feeling.  Well if they just asked, I would have told them I felt just fine, but a little nervous without mom.  Then they wanted my blood.  I didn't know they were a bunch of vampires.  I like my blood inside my veins, so when they came towards me, I turned into a little lion.  Mom would be so proud that I didn't let them take even a drop of my blood.  The lady and dogtor were not amused, but Chlo the great came out on top.  They had enough of me, but I must admit I had enough of them and I really was a scaredy Chlo. I was panicking until my eyes found mom.  I did not get a secret treat or sticker, but instead they reported that Chlo the lion showed up and to come back again.  Mom and I have to have a conversation about this whole blood thing.  Mom did say I had to get my teeth cleaned, so I can give more kisses without people wanting to throw up.  I was rattled quite terribly and needed more love than normal, so I broke the rules to walk on the table and find comfort in the most unlikely places. 

Chlo the Lion

Chlo (e) and the Beast

Tale as old as time, 
Dog as old as rhyme, 
Chloe and the Beast

The beast and I were in our castle yesterday when mom came home and let us out of the dungeon.  She put us to work just like any other Disney movie.  Cleaning, moving, and vacuuming.  We all got really dirty reorganizing and putting away all of the items that Christian drug out to fix our castle.  I was really wishing my fairy godmother would show up and save me from this wretched spell my mom was under.  The cleaning process also wreaks havoc on my nose!  Give me the horse smelling poop my mom came home with from scooping poop over the scrubby bubbles that clean the tub.  I think she is trying to kill my sniffer or clean out my brain not sure which, but I wasn't thinking clearly by the end of our cleaning session.  Mom was on such a roll that she even thought the beast and I needed to be clean.  The horror of the bathtub was upon us.  Where is prince charming when I need him most to rescue me?  One thing I know for sure, the sorcerer who places spells on mom to clean should be put in shackles.   

Yours truly, 

The beauty

We'll Keep in Touch- Conquering Technology

 

I have been inspired to finally enter the 21st century by learning how to use a phone.  I usually enjoy spending all my energy enjoying hanging out with my mom, but now I think I want to keep in touch with Barnabus, Dalek, and Christian.  You would think that a blogger like me would have been on top of this technology, but I never had anyone I cared to call.  I also have never mastered how to dial with my paws or use voice commands with my barks.  I really thing they need to make phones more accessible to dogs, because what if there was an emergency and I needed a special treat.  I am still working on figuring out how to hold the phone with my paws, but until then, I am adjusting my head and ears so that I can hear well enough without getting blasted.  I do have big ears and sensitive hearing.  I am so overwhelmed when I hear voices that I forget to talk.  What can I say, I am a work in progress.

Other technology that I am learning to use is the Amazon Dot.  I was starting to get really jealous that my mom said Alexa way more than Chlo, but then I realized she was just asking it to do things.  I could hear most often the annoyance in her voice, but never the sweet, sweet voice she uses when calling my name, so I knew I had no competition from Alexa.  The same dot that plays the baseball games, and the music started playing my moms voice and she was calling out my name and laughing.  I couldn't find her, but the game was kinda fun while it lasted.  It is always nice to hear from my mom during the day.  I hope she calls me again soon until then I will be catching up on my snoozes.  

Big Legend- Big Chlo

Big Chlo has been studying the movie Big Legend.  It was  a suggestion from one of mom's students.  It was on our list of things to do for two years.  I was seriously inspired after I decided I wanted to be legendary.  I want to preface my movie review with this one fact.  I am much more beautiful than the Big Legend in the forest.  I believe the Big Legend was a bigfoot, but I didn't know the bigfoot had grey hair.  He had much more hair than I thought he would too.  It made him look even worse after he took out his own version of a bunny.  

So the movie was great.  It was suspenseful with a decent amount of action.  My favorite part was the growls coming from Big Legend.  I have been practicing those noises every since.  I was good at growling before the movie and now I am great at growling.  I can't wait to practice these noises on actual people and use them while hunting.  

Overall, the movie was a little gruesome and scary for my taste.  As much as I want to be big legend, I think I will do it only during the daylight hours and only if it is about 55 degrees.  I am sure at that temperature, I can be my best legendary self.  Until then, I will make sure to cuddle up in the arms of those I love as my other legendary self.  

I only have eyes for you mom... and maybe someone else

 

So, my obsession with my mom has been broken.  I have found a new replacement named Christian.  We are now on week 3 of our visit and he isn't so bad.  I have changed my routine and instead of hanging out and snuggling my mom before work, I run downstairs to see Christian, Dalek, and Barnabus.  I have even learned how to open the barn door into the bedroom.  It is a huge door, and I am a little dog, but if there is a will there is a way.  I hang out with Christian all day and he gives way more treats than Mom.  He also smells better than mom, because Christian and I are on the same shower schedule.  He plays more than mom and chases me around the backyard.  Sometimes I growl at him, because he doesn't know when to stop.  Best of all, Christian was supposed to be watching me and I did my very favorite thing.  I caught myself a bunny.  Christian really is the best.  Don't tell mom I said so!  

I also have a dog shout out to Pearl!  Everyone should welcome Pearl to the family.  I hope you are a cool cousin, but it is too early to tell.  She is still a tiny puppy that does a lot of chomps.  I can't wait to meet her!  

Chlo knows: The Delicacies from the great wild

 

The neighborhood is coming alive again with the wildlife.  Chlo the bunny hunter has been spying the different rabbits and waiting for my favorite delicacy baby rabbit.  I've been talking with my best friend Dalek and she agrees that nothing is better than a bunny brain.  Don't start judging!  Humans eat weird food such as frog legs, fish eggs, baby lambs, chicken gizzards, pickled pigs feet, spam, testicles, and Twinkies.  I just can't get over the texture of a Twinkie!  Compared to the human list, bunny brains seem almost normal and if I am really hungry I would eat other parts of the bunny too!  Dalek and I have scouted the area and tracked a nest of bunnies under  the deck.  I hope I can sneak past mom to try a few, but she has lost her mind the few times I brought the bunnies back to her.  Here are the top hunting trips to date.   

1)  Mom, Charlie, and I went to a 5 year old birthday party a few years ago.  Right away I caught the scent of my favorite appetizer and I was on my way.  Mom was distracted making sure Charlie didn't bite any kids and I was left to my own agenda.  I sniffed, snorted, and dug around and found the baby bunny.  The bunny only made one noise in protest.  For my big debut, I hopped out of the bushes to show everyone and of course to share!  In my horror, all the little kids started screaming and my mom was furious.  She took my bunny and put it in a bag.  I was kinda a messy eater and had a little bunny all over my face, so she took me immediately to the shower.  After that, she packed up and left!  We didn't even get to eat or have bday cake!

2)  My next encounter isn't as dramatic.  One evening, I caught my bunny friend and brought her to the house to share with mom.  Mom freaked out and stole her!  Maybe I shouldn't have brought her into the house.  She threw her in the trash.  I was so mad, mom was so mad, Charlie was clueless.  While mom was washing her hands, I remember that there were more bunnies!  I got another one and then decided not to share with mom.  I had a stomach full of bunny before mom caught me.  I slept good that night.  

Morale of the story.... Bunnies Are Tasty!!!! 

I regret none of it.  

Chlo the Bunny Hunter

On the Road Again: A few pictures from vacation

 

These are our happy faces.  Vacation means a new adventure to far away places.  Mom got out the dog hammock for our deluxe traveling pleasures.  It is like first class flying for dogs!  I actually cry a lot in the beginning, because I can't get to my mom, but then I curl up and enjoy the ride.  As you can see even Grandpa Charlie is a happy campy when we are leaving for an adventure.  Where are we going?  Let me tell you.  Over the river and through the woods to Christian's house we go.  We go to this place called Missouri where the sun is warm, and the armadillos play.  We did have a close encounter with some cayotes, but I did a howl and they were gone.  

When we are in Missouri, I have to expend a lot of energy.  The yard is bigger to protect which requires me to run around a lot more.  Barnabus and Dalek keep me on my toes.  Barnabus is a puppy and thinks that he has to play and attack at all times.  I think Christian is kinda shady and I have to protect my mom constantly.  Christian isn't allowed to make noise when my mom is sleeping in her bedroom.  I stay up all night just listening to those noises and making sure no one comes near.  During the day when my mom is reading, I have to catch up on my beauty sleep.  I prop my head up so I can watch mom, but then I let my eyes close.  The sun does wonders for a puppy's disposition.  Sometimes I have to sneak a nap in when the baby Barnabus is sleeping.  He is really cute when he isn't moving, eating, or have his eyes open.  When he is alert, I am just a growling thing.  He really does get on my nerves even though he looks incredibly sweet.  I do want you to take notice that I like him enough not to attack him for stealing my mom's lap.  I guess he really is growing on me.  

Take me out to the ball game

 

Baseball is back!  The cubbies are in action and mom and I are listening to all of the games.  I have been looking forward to this day all year.  It means sun, the radio, the back yard, and a happy Chlo!  Mom and Christian played a round of catch in honor of opening day.  I may have tried to catch the ball and it hit my side.  I am not meant to be a baseball player, but I can still love the game!  

Guess what!  Anthony Rizzo ( the 1st base cubs player)  has a dog that he loves.  His name is Kevin and he is a dachshund.  He went to support the cubs on spring training.  He is also the inspiration for Rizzo's cleats!  What a lucky dog that Kevin is.  Mom talks about how cute he is and I might just want to meet this Kevin.

Anyways, the cubs are doing well and have been winning.  They beat the Pirates 2 games to 1 in the opening series.  There were home runs, stolen bases, and some outstanding plays.  Cubs baseball signifies that spring is here and summer is around the corner.  We just need to have some cookouts and some family gatherings and I will be right as rain!  Tune in today at 6:40 to listen to the cubs play the Milwaukee Brewers at Miller Park!  I can hardly contain my excitement.    

The Great Escape

Charlie in his old age of 14 decided to go on an adventure.  He is blind and partially deaf, but he made the great escape through the gate.  I remained quiet in the back yard until I was sure he was gone forever.  Then I went to find mom.  Once I went inside, mom had a heart attack and asked me where Charlie was.  All I had was Charlie who?  She ran outside of the house.  I could hear her yelling Charlie's name.  She stopped and asked all the neighbors and even started a search party!  A man on a bicycle helped look for the old man.  Mom was texting and checking Facebook and apparently Charlie is famous and made the neighborhood website.  

Charlie's Facebook Mugshot

Mom ran to the house and scooped up that old man.  Charlie never had a larger smile on his face.  He thought his adventure was great even though he only made it a half a block from home before he found a new family.  Lucky for him, mom found him before animal control came.  He was about to spend the night in jail.  I'm happy Charlie is alive, but I would have been just fine if he would have stayed with the family he found.  I was so close to having my mom all to myself.    I guess I'll just snuggle in closer and enjoy my cuddles anyways.  

Chlo the Leprechaun

Chlo the Leprechaun

Today is St. Patrick's day, 

The day the leprechauns play, 

They dance and they sing, 

luck they all bring, 

Chlo the Leprechaun wants some luck, 

Corned beef and cabbage would be  better than duck, 

I hope that I get some gold, 

All the treats would be sold, 

To me and my Irish friends, 

Have fun until the end.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!!!

Chlo Reviews: Monday

This Monday review:  

I stick out my tongue at Monday.  I woke up an hour earlier to find out my mom has to go to work again!  When does summer break start?  This time last year she was home with me everyday!  The best few months ever.  Mom was also on the grouchy side.  She was running late and acting like a fool looking for a pair of pants.  I might have hid them from her to keep her from going to work. She found an old pair and decided they would work. She then made me go outside.  The outside world was windy, wet, and cold.  How dare the weather change back to winter after I got my new haircut.  I lost a good portion of insulation, but ears do look fabulous.  Charlie's hair cut was rescheduled and he still had his coat on.  No fair!

I will officially start a petition to end daylight savings time, going outside when the weather is cold, and making my mom leave the house.  I hope everyone will sign this in support.  

To keep me spirits up, I will have a countdown until spring break.  11 mom sleeps until spring break which is equivalent to 64 Chlo sleeps. 

Chlo Ears vs. Charlie Ears

Chlobra Kai

I have found my next calling.  This weekend mom and I were watching Cobra Kai.  It was my first experience seeing what it means to be a Karate Kid.  I believe that I could be the next Karate dog, but I know training must start immediately.  Mom took me for a walk to check out the little libraries, and I got to practice my jumps on and off the curb.  My challenges also included helping stack the sticks to learn balance.  Mom was cleaning up the yard and I helped the only way I knew how by getting in the way.  I am most definitely getting stronger.  However, mom makes me move my little legs so fast to keep up on the walks.  I hate doing this and I start my slow-mo Chlo walk.  She says I'm out of shape, but I think my hotdog shape is perfect.  Training must continue. 

Other than improving my endurance, I am ready to learn the kicks and growls.  I might even add a bite.  I have been yearning to use my chompers since it has been quite awhile since the great bunny hunt (I'll have to tell that story another day).  I will fight with honor unless someone is coming at my mom, and then it will be game over.  Chlobra Kai will come out with a series of growls, jumps, bites, and kicks.  The enemy will not know what hit them, but it will be a little blur of fur known only as Chlobra.  Now I need a headband to complete my ensemble.  

Contemplative Chlo

 Today, I have the weight of the world on my shoulder's.  I have so many questions without answers.  Why did the chicken cross the road?  What came first the chicken or the egg?  Which taste better chicken or worms?  Maybe for Easter, I need to get a pet chicken so I can make my observations and then find the answers to life.  I'm not sure if my mom would be ready for that commitment especially when I ate the chicken.  

Last summer she got very angry when I played with a bunny.  I just needed 1 taste to answer the question which tastes better a bunny or a sweet potato.  The answer was for sure the bunny.  However, my mom was unimpressed with my ability to be stealthy and become a huntress.  I need to find a new life mission other than Chlo the Bunny Hunter.  Why is life so hard?  Why can't mom be happy with the skills I bring to the household.  I was so kind I even brought the bunny to share.  Instead of a huge smile and thanks, it ended in a shriek and bad Chlo.  

Every Chlo has to have a goal in life:  What is mine?  Help me think of some career suggestions.  Maybe I will try them out and let you know how they go.  Contemplative Chlo needs a little guidance.  

Dream a little dream with me

Finally, the sun has come back out and my dreams have come true.  I had a little extra pep in my step and spent quite a bit more time outdoors.  I did some runs, jumps, chases, and growls.  It was great!  I might have also gotten my paws a little dirty, but that is a small sacrifice for the lovely time I had.  With all the extra activity I had to catch up on snoozes and they were filled with glorious dream.  

I also started thinking about Mom's spring break.  I need to start planning all of the vacationing I am going to do.  I need to book the trip, make travel plans, and start a list of what to bring on vacation.  I started thinking about all the places we could go.  Kayaking, boating, camping, or to outdoor food venues (I love food), but I think I want to see my friends Barnabus, Dalek, and Christian.  I will keep you updated about my spring break plans and of course I will come up with an itinerary.  Spring break Spring Break 2021 will be EPIC!!!!  Until then, here are a few pictures from past adventures!  

Summer 2018

June 2018

May 2018

The Chlo Ness Monster

 Monster's can be found in mysterious places.  I was reading Weird Illinois which included strange little creatures so close to home!  The most terrifying for me was for sure the Thunderbird.  The thoughts of being taken away from my mom with big huge talons was faint worthy. I also don't enjoy heights.  That wasn't even the worst part, but being picked to the bone during a feeding was seriously too much for my heart to take.  So I decided to be the monster instead of the victim.  After much research, I decided that the loch ness monster was fierce enough to keep me safe from the Thunderbird.  

Becoming the Chlo Ness Monster:

Step 1:  Learn to love the water or learn to channel the rage while in the water. 

Step 2:  Look larger than  you are.  

Step 3:  Become unrecognizable, indescribable, and unidentifiable.  

Step 4:  Be ferocious.  

So I most definitely become the Chlo Ness Monster, but the problem was I didn't really enjoy my mom laughing at me, because I didn't want to scare her even though I know I could.  I also decided it wasn't worth living in the bath tub.  So after much deliberation, I decided to dry out my hair and be the most regal looking Chlo anyone has ever saw!  I will hire body guards to make sure the Thunderbird never takes me away.  

Trauma and Recovery

 I am not sure if everyone knows that winter has officially hit my home.  Like not a little winter, but a full blown winter with snow, wind, and below 0 temperatures.  The positive parts of this weather is that mom stays home with me a lot more.  There really is no good reason to leave a nice warm house to venture out into this type of tundra.  

Unfortunately, the winter weather advisory did not include all types of warnings.  They talk about the dangers of driving in the snow and wind.  They talk about taking it slow as to not do any crashes.  The advisory usually mentions the temperature and the wind chill.  Talk about frost bite and how fast it can happen.  I took notes on all of the advisories.

1.  walk very slowly outside

2.  wear a coat

3.  stay outside for a short period of time

4.  stay out of the wind

I translate it into do your business fast.  

So here is the trauma part:  It is 5am.  Mom's school called to cancel, so we were awake and I had to go!  I convince her it is not too cold, just negative 20, but you know when you got to go you got to go!  I take three steps outside of the door and then let out a blood curdling scream.  Mom grabbed me quick and pulled me into her warmth (my hero), but there was blood all over my snout!  The winter weather advisory didn't say anything about tongue bite!  I got it stuck to a copper broiler that holds our firewood.  

The recovery process required mom to hold me for the next 4 hours, licking my lips, and getting treats.  I still am scared to go outside, but I keep my tongue in my mouth now!  

Be careful out there.  This weather is not something to mess around in!

Chloetry - The Valentine's Day Poem

 Love is in the air!  The temperature might be frigid, but my heart is so very warm.  With inspiration of all those I love, I bring you Chloetry which is Chlo's poetry.  I hope you enjoy this very special valentine's day!  
 

True Meaning of Love

What is the true meaning of love? 

Is it when two hearts fit like a glove? 

Someone who always cares, 

Even when you have crazy hairs. 

The person that gives you a home, 

And writes you a beautiful poem, 

Sings songs to make you happy, 

Acts all lovey dovey and sappy.  

The person who helps you heal, 

Cares about the way you feel, 

knows what is for the best, 

Even when you are a pest. 

The person who brings you treats, 

the way in which she greets, 

making sure I am always close, 

Letting me sit on her toes.  

The meaning of love is different for all, 

But for me the family is who I call, 

When I need to be complete, 

I seek the person I was destined to meet.  

PS.... I dedicate this poem to my best friend- Mom and to my other best friend Charlie.  

Sometimes You End Up in Strange Places

 Have you ever wondered how you get to places?  I wonder that all the time.  Sometimes you take trains, planes, and automobiles  or even a boat.  Sometimes you walk, run, or hop.  But this is not how this story goes.     

Some people set goals, make New Years Resolution (which mom is still exercising), and have a path.  People go to trade school, or college to gain more education and experience.  Sometimes  you meet people that inspire you to travel in different directions.  I asked  myself the question, who inspired you the most?   I am still contemplating life and that question, because right now, it is not my mom and this was not how this story goes either.  

Sometimes fun and adventure lead you to strange places.  A series of events in an evening can make you wonder how did this even happen.  Making a wrong turn where fate, and destiny changes your pathway into a memorable story.  One that is so funny and interesting that it is retold so many times.  Sometimes the new place becomes a tradition where you return to that place, because of the fun memories. I do not want to return to this place.  It was not fun.   

I guarantee you that none of these approaches brought me to my strange situation.  My mother was a little bored and decided to torment me.  She was talking to gma and gpa about crocks.  Gma wanted to buy a crock to put me in!  Mom said she didn't need a crock to put me in, because she had one already!  To show Gma, mom put me in the crock.  Luckily, it was a little comfortable, because it had clothes in it, but I was still a little worried.  I hope you don't find yourself in any sticky situations or strange places.  It was so unfair that I am going to start planning my revenge.  

We are all doing our part

It has been a weird world this year.  I personally have had the best year to date.  My mom has been home more than ever!  I loved seeing her everyday in March.  We went for daily walks, sat outside, listened to books, and sang to music.  I did my part by being the best companion while mom stayed home.  Jump forward a few months and mom had to go back to work.  She had to take care of those kids.  I used to go and visit them once in awhile, but I have been banned.  I'm still not over that, but mom says I can't pass the training that is now required.  I'm sorry if I can't sit and wait patiently for mom to call my name.  I know where I want to be and it is with her.  

Mom is doing her part.  She has been home and she cleans a lot.  I actually don't really care for all those smells, but we do our part.  This week she had to get her 2nd shot.  I personally scream bloody murder when I get my shots, but she said it only lasted a short second and it was fine.  She was very tired the day after and had to take naps.  I gave lots of cuddles while mom was recovering.  I didn't need any shots to take many naps.  

She said everyone gets to make their own decisions on getting vaccinated, but for her she felt it was the best thing.  However,  she is always telling me that people have the right to their own opinion.  So I will do my part in keeping her healthy, and she will do hers.  Hope everyone is feeling happy and healthy during this incredible time.  

It's all fun and games until someone gets hurt

My mom brought up a big ball.  Bigger than any I have ever seen.  I was trying to play with it, but I wasn't sure about how to go about it.  So I watched my mom.  She sat on it, laid on it, and did all sorts of fascinating tricks.  I decided I wanted to try.  I would sit on my mom's lap while she was on the ball, but then we would lose the balance and slide one way or another.  At one point,  I was standing on her back like a surf board.  This new game was interesting, but also a little terrifying.  There were a couple close calls where the ball almost rolled right over me.  It would have been the end of me.  Charlie was more cautious than I.  He acted like he had experience with this type of thing before, but I was dumbfounded.  As the video was coming to a close, mom lost her balance and hit her head on the coffee table.  I laughed a little until I saw tears in her eyes.  She started laughing too.  We then kicked the big ball down the steps.  Sometimes exercising is dangerous!

Saying goodbye to a friend

If I wasn't so brown, I would be blue today.  Yesterday, a family member went over the rainbow bridge.  I didn't know Uncle Fuzz well, but my mom told me about him.  She said he had a dog named Buddy that he would drive around town.  He would take these daily trips and slow down to visit all of his friends on the route.  When mom said he was one of the good ones, I can easily see why.  She said Uncle Fuzz lived a great life full of friends and family, so to be so fortunate is nothing to be sad about.   

Mom also said to put these people in our hearts and memories and to think about all past friends.  Aggie and Romi were my past friends.  I never knew Aggie well, but mom said he was the coolest dog even though he tinkled on her pillow.  I met Romi when she was old, so I can't say I played with her a lot or even enjoyed her that much.  She was like a zombie when I met her.  We called her Rombi the zombie.  It was kinda funny. My people were sad to see her go after having her around for 16 years!    She had a long life full of friends, family, and a master that loved her.  She actually taught my mom a lot about dogs, patience, and forgiveness.  Mom's nickname for her was growly Romi, and she even bit my mom a few times!  She might have trained my mom into being a good dog mom.  So thank you Rombi for the many years that you gave my family and for a glimpse of time I got to know you.  I hope you are chasing tennis balls and eating tomatoes with Aggie. 

Aggie and Romi

Younger mom and Romi

The dog pack