Snow Run

Last night with one ear to the TV I recall hearing the news weatherman mention snow. I usually dismiss this as hearsay as I understand the dynamics involved in making an accurate snow prediction in the Puget Sound are so complex that even I of little meteorological training could get it right 50% of the time. You're thinking dog's can't predict the weather. This may be true, but we are more in tune with the weather and nature than most of our human counterparts. The photo to the above is from the big snow earlier this winter. As you can see I was in my element.

I do have excellent training in run predicitons. Anytime I see Aaron grab a pair of shorts, socks and shoes I know it's go time. He likes to tell me that he's not going anywhere, but I know different and am usually right. Today we had a great run in the snow! We started from the house at a very slow pace, I kept pulling on the leash to get the big man moving, but he just plodded along like he had not run in years. I hope he gets back on track so that I don't have to do all the work. Once we hit the trail he set me free and I ran point for the rest of the run. The snow was perfect, only an inch deep but firm under paw and especially tasty. Some large trees were blocking the trail in spots but they were no match for my canine agility. Aaron mentioned a return trip with his chainsaw to do some trail work and promised I could come. Maybe later today! By the end of the 4.5 miles Aaron finally had picked up speed enough to keep things interesting, but I could tell he's still not where he should be.

Walk in the Freezing Fog

Murdoch finally got his point across. Morning walks are essential for the healthy development of a teenage dog. This morning was excellent. I thought it would be like most mornings, they let me out for a perimeter run, some barking to let the world know that Murdoch is on patrol then back in the house to lounge for the rest of the day. This was not an ordinary morning. From what I understand there's been a change in schedule as my truck has been sitting in the driveway since Sunday night. I'm only a dog so I've little experience with mechanical issues other than those associated with bicycles and high tech dog collars, however I'm pretty sure the fuel pump died. I'm sure my boss has ordered the parts to fix my truck so I'm not worried about future trips, I do know that this schedule change is great. So back to the walk. As an ordinary dog, my meteorology training is standard issue based on scents, temperature and tactile sensations absorbed through keeping my feet on the ground and my head down. This morning was strange. It was like someone lifted the earth up into the clouds then turned the temperature way down. Everything crunched under my paws and the road looked normal but was very slippery.

The other strange thing about this walk was Aaron's choice of shoes. I noticed he received a new pair of funny looking shoes when we had a strange tree in the house some time back. I read the box and saw they were called Vibram Five Fingers. I personally think they make him look like either a black footed dog or an ape. Either way I'm sure he just wants to be like me and at the same time get a better feel for his surroundings. He seems to walk much faster with these things. I'm sure I'll see them more often as he seemed to really like wearing them. I wonder if he'll wear them to work. Anyway I've got to get ready to load up in the car for work. Hopefully I get to go today.

Murdoch Enters Blogosphere Unscathed

Without much fanfare relatively speaking in comparison with today's Presidential Inaguration, "Murdoch Knows What's Up" was launched. Murdoch was hoping to hold off for at least a day or so to let the comotion pass prior to his entry into cyberspace but the people simply cannot wait. Murdoch's message must be heard by all mankind, animalkind, insectkind, and catkind (although if you ask him he'll tell you that cat's don't count for much in his book, however he still appreciates the support of a few local cats who know where he's been and understands where he's going). Through his blog Murdoch hopes to inspire others through his own action whether selfless, selfish, or mundane. Herein you will find a message of hope emerging through the story of relentless dedication to finding the glass half full. Murdoch drinks from this seemingly bottomless glass each day and hopes to share his half full outlook with the world. All things are good through the eyes of Murdoch. So without further adieu, and one puppy-sized flying leap...Murdoch Knows What's Up!