Mixed Messages

I like to be kept up-to-date on what is going on here, and am constantly looking for signs. When dad puts on his walking shoes I get all waggy and happy, but then he may disappoint me by going out to paint the fence instead of talking me for a walk. If mom changes into different clothes and comes downstairs with her handbag, I think we are going out for a drive, but then she goes away on her own to meet her book group. Most of the time, however, I get it right. I pick up essential words from their conversation, such as “take her” or “take Tess” or “going in the car” or just “go” and I jump up and run around them in circles, and wag not just my tail, but my whole body.