Visiting the Family and the Adventures of Jake…

So the trip to Corpus Christi to see the parentals has been relaxing, interesting and slightly like stepping into fantasy land.

It all began Saturday when my little brother asked me to go to an Airsoft game with him. I had heard him talk about this before, but here is a rough definition from Wikipedia: Airsoft refers to a sport or recreational pastime in which players participate in the simulation of military- or law enforcement-style combat using smoothbore airsoft guns designed as replicas of real firearms.

So my little brother basically plays with replica guns for fun on the weekend. I wasn’t sure I agreed with the whole idea, but I will try anything once. We arrived at the abandoned warehouse they have gotten permission to use from the local police. I was expecting a rag-tag group of teenagers…but was surprised when middle-aged men and small children were the norm. We are talking 6 year olds that can handle a gun better than me!! However the weather was horrible so the gamers just shot glass out of the windows of the warehouse and my little bro and I left. An experience to say the least.

Fantasy Land

Enter the 12 Hallmark/Lifetime movies that were shown over the course of three days. My parents recently purchased a DVR and then consequently have been recording every crappy made-for-tv movie ever made. No wonder I grew up believing that all love needed was a little magic. That if you apologized after ruining some one’s life, they instantly forgave you and you fell in love. I’m kind of afraid that when I enter the real world tomorrow, I will take a bit of Hallmark and Lifetime with me. I guess that’s not such a bad thing…it could be worse!

Other than that seeing the family was nice…a good few days of relaxation. Much deserved!

The Adventures of Jake

I brought Jake along with me on this trip…and it was a learning experience. Jake is a 16 month old Rhodesian Ridgeback/Weimaraner mix.

This first picture is a drawing of a Weimaraner…notice the large ears and chest, Jake definitely has those.

Weimaraner Breed Standard
(From AKC.ORG)
Sporting Group

General Appearance
A medium-sized gray dog, with fine aristocratic features. He should present a picture of grace, speed, stamina, alertness and balance. Above all, the dog’s conformation must indicate the ability to work with great speed and endurance in the field.

The second picture is of a Rhodesian Ridgeback…notice the powerful stance and large paws, more of Jake’s attributes.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Breed Standard
(From AKC.ORG)
Hound Group

General Appearance
The Ridgeback represents a strong, muscular and active dog, symmetrical and balanced in outline. A mature Ridgeback is a handsome, upstanding and athletic dog, capable of great endurance with a fair (good) amount of speed. Of even, dignified temperament, the Ridgeback is devoted and affectionate to his master, reserved with strangers. The peculiarity of this breed is the ridge on the back. The ridge must be regarded as the characteristic feature of the breed.

I learned a few things about Jake this weekend. I have grown so used to him being glued to my side…he is very loyal and obedient…that I forgot that he can be in the way. My mom kept complaining about he likes to lay in the kitchen when she is cooking. Yes, as my roommates can attest, you become quite good at balancing hot pans while stepping over Jake.

He is also afraid of most men and that includes my little brother and my dad. Dad tried very hard to warm Jake up including taking him in walks, playing ball and even chasing him, but Jake was still weary.

Overall he is a great dog that I hand-trained and love with all my heart. He is my confidant, training partner, cuddler, and so much more. Plus I never have to drink alone! Here are some puppy pics and recent pics…Happy Holidays!