We've verified recently that Berners remain puppies for about two years. That means that we have roughly 14 months to go. I guess we didn't really realize this during our "research period." Now, most of our neighbors remind us that, "oh, sure, a lot of the larger breeds are slow to mature," suggesting that this was common knowledge. Why didn't they speak up earlier, during the "research period?"
Anyway, we've learned a few things over the past couple months. First, Bali is a natural climber. His humongous paws and pads negotiate even the most splintered and unsteady of woodpiles. This one is nothing . . .
We've learned that he's a consummate goofball (actually, we already knew that). Here he rests his oversized head on his nose, causing his front teeth to be exposed and causing about the most ridiculous look you can imagine.
We've learned that he's a natural camper (which is what we had hoped)! We set up camp in the back yard and Bali took it all in stride. He slept in the tent and didn't destroy anything.
Of course, he's a natural hiker . . .
Here Bali attempts to "hunt" squirrels.
But, we've learned that he's most adept at catching plastic bottles.
And here is evidence of Bali learning "place."
This was a bad day. He consumed part of a remote AND Kel's glasses.
This was our Saturday routine all summer. After school, we head to Muth's Farm for our CSA veggies. This is Bali's friend, Pushkin (he's the small dog). Notice the hot wheels in the background (the '70 Mustang, not the '04 Element).
But it's good enough for him . .
We've learned that he has no natural fear of 22-ton hydraulic wood splitters.
More exhibits . . .
He wants to help, the poor kid just doesn't know how to . . .
No thanks to him . . .
