White Dog was thrilled when she heard that Steve did not have to go into work today (he worked Saturday) and dashed off to tell the rest of the White Dog Army. In no time, everyone was clustered around us discussing the possibility of heading up for a hike in the mountains where it is cooler. "Sounds good," Steve agreed, "a little get away mental health day!" There was an actual breeze created by the wagging tails.
Before leaving, I hopped on the computer to just do a quick scan and make sure I was missing nothing important. The world seemed to be turning without my help. Just as I was about to sign off something told me to check one last thing. Saturday on the way to the Opera, we could clearly see smoke from the continuing fires which still rage with only 30% containment. So I checked the Forest Service website then went out to ruin the day for both Steve and the WDA.
"Sorry, my loves, but the forest service, open spaces, and BLM lands have all been closed to visitors because of severe fire danger due to the drought and because of the fires. We cannot go hiking today." White Dog challenged me and Nuka yipped her support, but there was nothing that could be done.
The heat continues here (like in most of the country) and the air was muggy. Moving was an effort and water consumption helped, but did not refresh. The WDA panted and the humans dripped sweat. The idea of going anywhere in town, other than for ice cream was not very motivating...and ice cream eaten outdoors in the baking sun or in the car or under a stifling shade structure lost its excitement. So we pulled out chicken/pumpkin pupsicles from the freezer and had smoothies instead of lunch. Everyone listened to their inner dog, found a cool tile floor with a fan breeze and napped...AFTER looking at the building thunderheads and praying for enough rain to cool us down.
Quinn update: TOWD saw the vet for a followup to his abscess. it is healing well and quickly; although it is still pretty deep. Dr. Julia did a thorough cleaning and (horrors) shaved a bit more fur to increase the perimeter around the wound since our boy's beautiful flowing coat was getting in the way. He does not have to revisit unless there is an issue. So please understand if all his photos for a LONG while only show The Mighty Quinn's left side.