An Evening Stroll with the Dog

Sounds peaceful doesn't it? That's how I imagine it in my head. In fact, my imagination usually creates an image like this:

(Source)

Ah yes, so wonderful. A fresh blanket of snow on the ground, but not snowing because it's crappy walking in blowing, swirling snow. A perfectly planned walking outfit and straight, beautiful hair not whipping around my face. A happy dog keeping even pace without pulling on the leash. Pure dog-walking bliss.

Now, because my lack of extra hands and camera dexterity doesn't allow me to snap a photo of myself walking Flames, allow me to show you this very accurate, aerial view of what our walks look like:

Seriously. It's that bad. That doesn't stop me from enjoying every second of it, though. That pure doggy happiness on Flames' face as he's bounding around the pond is one of the best feelings in the world. Here are a few pictures, that let you into a bit of the daily routine for the wonder dog and I.

River Rock Pond: Can't beat that view!

Another view from further down the path.

 People walking on the frozen ice. Reminds me of Okoboji Winter Games!

 Flames licking his chops; he loves to eat snow!

Sniffing: Another dog? Poop? Better check!

Getting a bit annoyed with me constantly stopping to take pictures.

Pretty boy!

 Looking for birds down by the shore. Loves birds!

 Proof of the snow eating.

 Alllllll done! (Love that I caught his breath in this photo!)

 In this next series of photos, I realized my dog was camera-illiterate. This is his "look away."

 This is his "happy stoner."

 And this is his "squinty old man."



That's that! I can't wait for the weather to warm up so Flames and I can walk longer, in the daylight, without wearing a coat. He'll still be circling me like a helicopter blade, though. Watch out River Rock walkers!