Smoke on the Water

We had a great day at my aunt and uncle's camp on July 4th. The star of the show was their golden retriever, Smoke. He's named after Nascar driver Tony Stewart, whose nickname is Smoke. If by some bizarre happenstance you meet my aunt, never, ever mention the name Jeff Gordon or you will get the stink-eye. Anyway, Smoke had surgery on his hip last year, and at 110 pounds, it's painful for him to exercise. So my uncle bought him a life vest since water is buoyant and easier on his joints. This was Smoke's first day to try out the new gear. He wasn't too sure at first, but he eventually caught on and liked it.

Oh, I'm not sure about this!!

Oh, wait...I can have a drink while I'm here.

Dad, are you sure about this?

My uncle tossed a rubber chicken into the water several times to get him going.

Rubber chicken! Must retrieve!!

Got it!

Neighbor Maggie looks on with excitement.

The handle was used to help Smoke out of the water.

More to come about our July 4th adventures. Stay tuned!

Boat Bash!

Recently, my aunt and uncle invited us to a boat bash on Lake Maurepas (MAR-eh-PAW). It took about an hour to get there on my uncle's boat. Not knowing what to expect, I brought along my bff, Bertha (my camera). It was a beautiful, clear day. We listened to music playing from a platform as all types of boats and watercraft gathered 'round. They started off with classic rock, but as the day wore on, it changed to hip-hop. :( Surprisingly, there weren't any crazy shenanigans, just folks enjoying the weather and music. Something about floating on water is very relaxing, I must say.

Boat name: PARR-T

Blue men

Notice the "HOT" BOUDIN sign. Also, the people floating
under the stage is funny to me. Sorry about the big bag of trash,
but we've gotta keep our rivers clean!

Don't they look like they're posing? 

This is my aunt and uncle's dog, Smoke, enjoying a rawhide on their deck.
This is one of the sweetest dogs EVER! But most goldens are known for their good natures.

We only stayed a couple of hours because the air conditioner inside our boat wasn't working and being on deck was BRUTAL. Stories of brain eating amoebas killed any desire I might've had to cool off in the water. Have a safe and happy weekend, everyone!