Since I have no kiddies, you’ll have to indulge me in a birthday post about my pup.  At least I don’t go crazy like some people; you know, dressing him up, buying him a cake.  A cake? I don’t even get cake on my birthday.  He’s a dog, and very happy with a nice cookie.  Just another reason I love him so…he’s easy to please. It’s hard to believe that Mr. Riley is five years old today!  We honestly can’t remember what life was like before him. He’s not our pet; he’s our family and we love, love, love him.  Ok, so he’s probably the most obstinate dog I’ve ever met, or as he probably prefers, “strong-willed,” and he has discovered that barking occasionally garners attention. This sweet, lovable boy always wants to be by people, if not underfoot than no more than four feet away.  And some days he has to stop and say hi to everyone we meet during walks…and I mean everyone.  He loves attention from strangers and is obsessed with baby strollers, especially if they are empty.  He finds them intoxicating.  Things we can look back and laugh about now:  nearly throwing up on Tracey on the long ride to his new home from his breeder, falling in the water at Discovery Park because he thought the stagnate green water was a path, eating the wreath, and digging a hole in the backyard deep enough for his whole body.  His all-time favorite thing?  The grey blanket he’s had since he was a puppy.  He drags it around like Linus.  Here are some of my favorite pics of the little guy.  Happy birthday, my furry friend!