he Adventures of Dooley and Me Learning from the Past, To find the Good in America’s Future

“Mans inhumanity to Man

Makes countless thousands mourn”

-       Robert Burns, 1784

The Adventures of Dooley and Me

Learning from the Past, To find the Good in America’s Future

This past January, Dooley and I headed across the USA, in our yearly quest to learn, and get to know “America the Beautiful”.  I believe in America’s beauty, and I believe in America’s inhabitants.

Often current events are powered by fears, confusion, and passion. As they say “hindsight is 20/20” so let’s look into the past for some clarity.

First stop Jackson Mississippi … named for Andrew Jackson (President -1829 – 1837) He became famous as a winning general in the Battle of New Orleans, and numerous Indian battles. In 1830 Jackson signed the Indian Removal Act.  This act, displaced tens of thousands of Native Americans from their ancestral homelands east of the Mississippi River. It resulted in thousands of deaths in what has become known as the Trail of Tears.

A few months ago Dooley and I visited some Native American museums in and around Cherokee, NC., and learned a lot about the Trail of Tears. Dooley and I were intrigued that the United States government could be so cruel and dismissive to entire races of people.

Sound familiar?

Next stop (briefly) Vicksburg, Mississippi

On the way to Shreveport, we went through Vicksburg, MS, the site of a large Civil war battle. Over 100,000 soldiers battled for 47 days, over whether or not one man can own another. We’ve been eager to visit the Vicksburg National Military park, but it’s been closed for the past few years due to flooding or something. Maybe it’ll be open on our way home.

Interesting that half of our country could be so cruel and dismissive of the lives and freedom of entire races of the world.

Sound familiar?

Dooley and I found the Red River at Bally’s in Shreveport …  good to roulette players … and their dogs.

We follow the Red River to the Oklahoma/Texas line and decide to explore some Indian lands … and try to understand the mixed cultures and history of the Trail of Tears … Oklahoma is now home to 38 Native American Nations, … including the Choctaw, Chickasaw, Cherokee, Seminole, and Muskogee/Creek tribes from West Georgia/ East Alabama. (these 5 are known as the “civilized tribes”) I suspect they are called “civilized” because they had trade routes established with other tribes, a governing structure, plus an Indian nation with enough population to demand negotiation…  Even though, the United States failed to live up to many of its treaties with Native Americans …

Interesting that the United States of America could be so dismissive of the lives and freedom of entire races of people.

… sound familiar?

Dooley and I enjoy listening to Radio Classics on Sirius/XM. They play old radio shows from the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s. I enjoy listening to these shows. I also enjoy observing and studying the acceptable behavior between different races, nationalities, and religions through the years

I have heard a few shows about the Internment of Japanese/Americans during World War 2. The internment of Japanese Americans was initiated by Executive Order, signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on February 19, 1942. This order allowed the military to designate certain areas as exclusion zones, leading to the forced removal of Japanese Americans from the West Coast. The government justified these actions by claiming a potential security threat, despite a lack of evidence supporting the idea that Japanese Americans posed any danger.

Interesting that the United States of America could be so dismissive of the lives and freedom of entire races of people.

… sound familiar?

In my seventy years of observing, … generations, Humans and Humankind, … living, raising a family, watching us as humans take steps forward, and steps back. Watching us, … yes. … you and me,  … and how we treat our neighbors, and how we treat entire blocks of people, religions, colors and creeds, … I have always felt that The United States was trying to head in the right direction … I have had hope for our country and our search for Life, Liberty, and The Pursuit of Happiness, … NOT our search for Fame, … Fortune, … and the Pursuit of Power

Interesting that the United States of America could be so dismissive of the lives and freedom of entire races of people.

… sound familiar?

When are they coming for you?

“Mans inhumanity to Man

Makes countless thousands mourn”

-       Robert Burns, 1784

Searching for Peace

Searching for Peace, 19 Monks, and a Dog!

Dooley and I had an interesting day yesterday. We witnessed and felt something that has been rare in my lifetime. Something so good, so real and yet surreal, I’m having a hard time figuring out how to describe it.

Dooley and I took off for Lagrange, Georgia yesterday. We wanted to see a group of 19 Monks, and their Dog, Aloka, who have been walking for 63 days, heading from Fort Worth, Texas to Washington DC. A total of 120 days, 2,300 miles, “to raise awareness of peace, loving kindness, and compassion across America and the world. 🙏”

I figured if we could find highway 29 and head north, we would catch up with them … after all, they were walking! Plus I had 3 GPS’s. What could go wrong? … 😊 2 ½ hours later we finally found Western Heights Baptist Church, where The Walk for Peace was scheduled to stop and rest around lunch time, and there was no one there ☹

We stopped there so Dooley could take a break. Within a few minutes 3 other cars stopped to ask if we knew where the Monks were!? We all shared the information we had and agreed we would continue north on highway 29.

Picture this: Complete strangers, 2 ladies, a van full of teenagers and kids, a guy and his dog, somewhere in West Lagrange, Georgia. Searching for Peace, 19 Monks, and a Dog! …

Sure enough, maybe 5 miles down highway 29 … blue lights, about a hundred people, traffic jam, they had stopped at a church with a lawn about the size of a football field, there were guys in red robes, surrounded by people, and a Dog.

Dooley and I found a parking place, at one end of the field, along with others who had found them. There were people trying to get closer, some could hardly walk, some ran over to see what they could. But something I noticed, there was no pushing, or shoving, or “hurry up, get out of my way!” … There was a sense of consideration and respect in the air …

As Dooley and I proceeded across the field, we noticed a dog running towards us … from about 40 yards away, it was Aloka! (the Monks’ dog) Dooley wagged his tail … he was already a little nervous about all of the people around … Then Dooley froze … he didn’t move … he sensed it before I did. Aloka was NOT searching for Peace … he was protecting his humans from this strange dog! I’m pretty sure if Dooley had flinched or moved, it would have gotten really nasty.

I was trying to use a calming voice and keep animals calm … A few seconds after Aloka arrived with his bared teeth and vicious growl, someone arrived, chasing Aloka down, grabbed him and calmed him down, and apologized profusely… the dogs calmed down, sniffed each other, and parted peacefully. I decided to put Dooley back in the car. By the time I got back to the crowd, the Monks were walking again … Aloka leading the way … protecting his peaceful humans …

Dooley and I were a bit disappointed, so we decided to get ahead of Peace, 19 Monks and a Dog …

So we consulted the GPS’s, made a few wrong turns and found them at another intersection… I barely made it out of the car as they went through the intersection … I saw a few of them stop and talk to people as they disappeared down the road … Dooley and I were even more determined to get closer and find Peace, 19 Monks and a Dog …

By the time we reached the next major intersection … it was a MAJOR intersection … malls, big stores, Chic-fil-A, Waffle House, everything and everyone was there, hundreds of people, maybe thousands … Dooley and I found a good place to wait, with lots of grass and plenty of room for him to run around a little bit …

The longer we waited the more crowded it got. There were obnoxious teenagers with loud obnoxious stereos (and mufflers … or lack thereof) old people, young kids, dogs, cheerleaders on top of a van, people sharing food, people with beer, (and soft drinks) babies laughing, people laughing … Dooley, running around wagging his tail, making people smile. The longer we waited, the more people started talking and getting to know each other. It was kind of like tailgating at a football game … only we were all for the same team … 😊

Then, we saw blue lights, the people around me were giddy with excitement, dancing, and jumping up and down. Here they came, right by me and Dooley … Aloka gave Dooley “the man nod” (you know how men acknowledge each other, with a nod of their heads)

I was trying to get video of this when someone handed a Monk a piece of paper, he read it, hugged and bowed to the man. I started to tear up when the guy and girl next to me teared up and told them that they really appreciated what they were doing. All I could say was “God Bless Y’all. One monk reached out his hand to me; I shook his hand, we bowed to each other and I high-fived all the rest of them. (Including the guy who saved Dooley from Aloka) I was wearing a t-shirt that said “PEACE” on the front, we each repeated “Peace” as we touched.

For the past several years, I have tried to keep myself aware of the Goodness, Beauty, and Love that exists in the world. This Search and this Awareness gives me hope, and I believe that sharing that Hope, will make our world, and our experiences in it, richer, more meaningful, and well, more worth living through.

The lesson here? … You tell Me … maybe Peace won’t just fall in your lap … maybe you have to look for it … and … maybe … it’s looking for you …

In the Days and Years to come … May you all find some Peace, 19 Monks, and a Dog …

The Mountain Top

The Adventures of Dooley and Me

The Mountain Top …

Dooley and I took a trip up to the Blackrock Mountain Overlook to soak in the View and the Sun on a beautiful Saturday Afternoon. On a really clear day you can see Atlanta and everything in between. The view was beautiful …and so were the people …

She was so cute! I don’t know how old she was … I’m going to guess 5 or 6 and had a teddy bear backpack … I’ll call her Cutie Pie … She was fascinated by a little beagle puppy. He was cute too. He was 3 months old and getting love from everyone. So much so that Dooley was getting jealous! …

There was a couple getting pictures taken by a professional photographer … They were smiling, happy … they danced for the camera … He twirled her around … and caught her when she almost fell in her high heels … They were dressed nicely, … not nice enough for a wedding … probably an engagement announcement. Since he took a knee for several pics …

A family of probably 15 people aged from Great grandmother to 12-year-old … most of the family, took turns helping Great grandmother get around … It can be tough on the side of a mountain …  I can’t tell you where they were from … I couldn’t recognize the language …

A young family with a 5-year-old boy and 2-year-old girl … mom carried her … when the 2-year-old saw Dooley she started screaming and crying … I think she was scared of Dooley … he was scared of her! … Mom tried to soothe her … pointed out how cute he was with his wagging tail … She finally had to take her away to get her to stop screaming …

There were couples holding hands and kissing … There was one couple that I wanted to tell: “Get-A-Room” … but I didn’t … I’m guessing they were in their 80’s!

The lady in charge of the little beagle puppy was trying to take pictures of the view … the puppy was getting so much attention she was having a hard time … some people happily volunteered to take care of the dog while she snapped some pictures of the view …

Cutie Pie’s dad asked if he could take a picture of his daughter with the beagle … they were very cute together … (Dooley was still jealous) … she would laugh and giggle and sat down on a big rock … the dog would climb all over her … it was fun to watch…

Then the beagle moved on … Cutie Pie decided to dance and skip around … and was very busy being cute ... Dad called her to come back so they could get a picture of her with Mom and Dad … she stopped dancing, turned around to face them, crossed her arms and stood up as tall as she could … and yelled … “NOT INTERESTED!” … stomped a few steps farther away … as mom and dad pleaded, “awe come on” …  she turned and again yelled …  ”NOT INTERESTED!” … and resumed cuteness … dancing and skipping, … celebrating her defiance and independence …  😊

Some of us need help … some of us need to assert some independence … sometimes both … but we all need each other … Life is better that way …

Life Happens y’all … everywhere … All the time … Don’t miss out …

Do the Waggy Dance!

Do the Waggy Dance! …

I was going to do a story about all of the different people in Walmart, and how all of these people made America, “America”. Then I woke up this morning and two of my favorite writers have done stories about people at Walmart. You have to admit, there’s a lot of inspiration there.

Last year about this time I did a story about different people Dooley and I met hiking around Tallulah Gorge.

https://www.joesongsmusic.com/read/2024/7/4/july-4th

It’s easy to meet people when I’m with Dooley. He loves people, always wagging his tail, and straining on his leash to greet a friendly face. Kids especially love Dooley. His soft fur and happy face cause instant “Oooh’s” and “Awe’s”. “Is it okay to touch him?” I tell them “Yes, he loves everybody with a smile on their  face.” They smile really big as they reach out to him, Dooley wags and they both do a happy waggy dance, sometimes they clap their hands, and dance around him. It’s so beautiful watching kids and dogs do the waggy dance …Whether you’re hiking a mountain trail or in Walmart … Maybe we should be more like kids and dogs. Just do your waggy dance and smile!

Happy Independence Day Y’all!  😊

Spring Break - Kids and Dooley

Spring Break – Kids and Dooley

Spring break at a tourist town is different. It’s different from other parts of tourist season, as well as different from town to town, state to state, and type of tourist attraction. I generally start with two categories, family attractions, … and teen/college student attractions. In my experience, beaches attract more of the latter. Also because of my experience, … I prefer family-friendly places.

Spring break in Telluride is probably like other ski towns. As of last weekend, there’s been a flood of families. Skating, skiing, sledding, shopping, and spending money!

Dooley gets lots of love from most kids (and parents). I should charge to let them pet him 😊 But he gives Love as much as he gets …Something we should all consider …

I saw something last night I hadn’t seen in a while, (since my kids were children) … two young brothers, (probably 4 or 5) obviously tired from a day in the snow, trying to stay awake in a restaurant. Their parents working diligently to get them to eat something. One of the brothers fell asleep with his eyes open for a good ten minutes, … his brother’s head only hit his plate once …

They had no problem staying awake … or eating when the ice cream arrived!

Another phenomenon I’ve seen often is the child meltdown, which is most usually reserved for younger children, but I’ve seen a few teenagers with their own special brand of meltdown. I generally just try to give the parents a reassuring smile, and move on …

I was on a ski lift with a dad and his daughter, they were discussing why she didn’t want to go skiing with a potential boyfriend and 5 of his male friends. Apparently, her dad thought it would be a good way to get to know him …

Before I go any further, let me just say that ski lift rides are generally 6 to 12 minutes long, too short a time to really get all of the facts, or get to really get to know anyone. Plus, … you’ll probably never see them again…

I was feeling nosey that day, and I couldn’t resist, I stuck my nose right in their business … I told her, (and him) that I didn’t know how old she was, but from what I know, (After dealing with young teenager and college age males, mostly as a guide on outdoor adventures, … Boy scouts, church groups, etc.) That more than three of them together can develop a pack mentality, … not dangerous or anything , but not fun for one female. And that she should trust her instincts on that one… Dad seemed to understand my advice … end of lift ride, and conversation.

My favorites … I call them Charlie’s Angels, there was 3 of them, Blond, Brunette, and Redhead. They prissy-ed in, took a seat at the bar, … and captivated everyone in the room. They were decked out in the latest skiing gear, mostly pink with sequins and Boa’s … and without hesitation, ordered up 3 strong Shirley Temples! … Yes, I’m guessing their ages … 6-10 years. Their mom took what had to be a great picture at the bar. I wanted to do the same but this time I was afraid I’d be sticking my nose where it didn’t belong. I’ve had some unfriendly reactions when asking people if I could take a picture of their kids. I just watched from a sensible distance. If only Dooley had been with me. … he’s a charmer …

The Adventures of Dooley and Me Part 18 - Tupelo, Dooley and Elvis!

Tupelo, Dooley, and Elvis,

August 16, 1977 …  I had just moved out of my parents house into my new apartment, I had a job and my new found freedom, my mom cried when I left the house, 3 minutes away from where I’d lived the past 22 years of my life, (except for in and out during college.) Someone was knocking on my door, persistently. I opened the door and met my across the hall neighbor, he was very close to crying, watery eyes, head down …

 “Are you okay?” I asked.

“Naw, man, I can’t believe it! …  Elvis is dead!”

“What … how?”

“They found him dead at Graceland, that’s all I know”

“Sorry dude, … here … let’s drink a beer for Elvis …”

“Naw … no … I’ve got to call my Mom, this is gonna break her heart …”

That’s how I got the news about Elvis. He was supposed to play in concert in Columbus about two weeks after that. Instead we played a live album of his on the radio the night  of the now canceled concert … Complete with  Scott Miller adding his impersonation of Elvis saying “Thank ya, thank ya Colum-mus”.

As we were passing through Tupelo Mississippi on our way out west, we decided to visit the Birthplace of the King himself. Apparently, after Elvis had become a gazillionaire, He purchased the two-room house on the wrong side of the tracks,  and most of the land around it to make a nice park for the folks who lived there. Now there’s his house, a nice park, and a museum. Plus plenty of parking for tour buses and tourists.

We learned a lot about Elvis’ childhood and his life. I didn’t know Elvis had a twin brother who died at birth, or that he came in fifth in a song contest when he was ten years old. He stood in a chair to reach the microphone.

Spending a few hours in the presence of Elvis’ costumes, posters, sunglasses, life size cardboard stand ups, t-shirts, jewelry, coasters, key rings, socks, shoes, music, can be intoxicating. I wanted one of each! Dooley was particularly interested in Nipper, the RCA dog. He wanted some Elvis treats, and I developed  a strong craving for a Jelly Donut!  😊

The Adventures of Dooley and Me Part 17

The Adventures of Dooley and Me Part 17 - On the Road in The US of A!

September 18, 2024  /  Joe McClure  /  Source

The adventures of Dooley and Me – Part 17

Life on the road in the US of A!

As Dooley and I get ready to head out west again, we’re packing and planning our route!

Last year we took a more northern route across the country as we were headed initially to Boise, Idaho.

We headed across the US of A in my new Jeep Grand Wagoneer. Dooley had a new foldable crate which made it much easier to set him up with a nice comfy, familiar bed as we traveled the 2500 miles to Boise, then down to Telluride Colorado for a couple of weeks, and then a couple weeks heading down to the Texas Hill country and the Kerrville Welcome Home Festival.

We took a north-ish route up through Memphis, St Louis, Kansas City, Southern Nebraska, Southern Wyoming, Northern Utah to Boise. We spent a lot of time on Interstate 80 traveling west, almost a thousand miles traveling through what could easily be called the middle of nowhere. Southern Nebraska and Wyoming provide a different, rugged country, … at times scenic for its rugged beauty.  I’ve learned to appreciate some country that’s has no or little vegetation. It could be said …  it’s SO NOT PRETTY that it’s uniquely beautiful.

A thousand miles worth of unique beauty and very few exits can make a long trip…  at least this time I didn’t run out of gas … (Lesson learned a few years ago, In Wyoming, Nebraska, Dakota’s, …  NEVER pass up a gas station if you have less than 2/3 a tank of gas 😊)

However, 2500 miles in four or five days takes it’s toll. And is bound to have its share of ups and downs. For instance … Rawlins, Wyoming … one thousand miles from Boise on I-80 … Two hotel/motels, a gas station, and a Walmart. What else could we need? …  An HDMI cable to stream something on the TV, since there was no cable tv at the hotel. (but there was cell service)

 So I took my brand new Grand Wagoneer (with about 2,000 miles on it) to get some gas and go to Walmart and grab an HDMI cable … Remember those big YELLOW cement bases Walmart puts around the base of their light poles in the parking lot? You know, they’re just low enough so that you might not see them if you’re in a big car next to them … They do a great job protecting the light pole … they’re not so good for your car … (and yes, lots of yellow paint on my car, … looked like I had hit a school bus!)

Labor Day weekend in Rawlins, Wyoming … not much going on … impossible to find a body shop or mechanic … I managed to crowbar my fender out from my wheel and limp the last thousand miles into Boise.  The dealership there said it would be a 3 month wait before they could even start on it ….Hmmm …

Then I noticed a brand-new Grand Wagoneer in the parking lot. It was pretty much my only option if I was going to finish the rest of our trip, and yes, the dealership knew that … We finally agreed on a deal … (I paid their price) ☹

So now It’s that time of year again! Time to head west to find cooler altitudes, attitudes, and adventures! We’re going to take I-40 out this time. More population, gas stations, Walmarts, construction, traffic jams … and adventures!

Next: Tupelo, Dooley, and Elvis! (and Nipper?)

The Adventures of Dooley and Me - Part 16 - July 4th

The Adventures of Dooley and Me - Part 16 - July 4th

July 04, 2024  /  Joe McClure

The 4th

Happy 4th of July everyone! Dooley and I had a good hike around Tallulah Gorge this morning. We noticed lots of different breeds of dogs also walking with their humans. Little ones, big ones, long hairs, short hairs, Pugs, poodles, and doodles. German shepards, Irish setters, English bulldogs, Rottweilers, Coonhounds, all happy to be alive, wagging their rear ends, sniffing, drinking water, peeing and pooping. Living life and enjoying the day.

I began to notice, … the same was true of the humans being led by their canines. They’re all different shapes, sizes, colors, long hairs and no hairs. Instead of wagging tails, (although there were a few of those) there were smiling faces, families, singles and doubles. And yes, peeing and pooping! (Long line at the bathrooms  :)

There was the Mom from Florida, with four kids including one teenage boy who kept insisting that they go down and up the 1,099 stairs into the heart of the gorge. I had stopped and given them directions earlier in the day, so the Mom looked to me for advice. I told her that it was definitely strenuous, take your time, rest a lot. (I have done it several times, it’s definitely not easy) She said “I’m from Florida, I’m not used to all this up and Down!”

A group of teenage girls, who were laughing and giggling and looking at their phones. I couldn’t tell what they were saying, as I got closer, I realized they were speaking a language I couldn’t even identify. Which is probably true for me listening to most teenage girls these days …

Grandpas and grandmas taking grandkids hiking, showing them this amazing place trying to keep them away from the edge, the kids exclaiming “whooooa” in amazement.

What a Great Day! People and puppies of all different nationalities, backgrounds, religions, colors, celebrating Independence Day in the United States of America!

From California, to Texas, to Florida, Massachusetts to Oregon. Regardless of our differences, Let’s all be grateful, to live in such a great place. A place where our differences, can also be our strengths…

The Adventures of Dooley and Me - Part 15 Dooley goes to Camp!

The Adventures of Dooley and Me Part 15

August 29, 2023  /  Joe McClure

The Adventures of Dooley and Me Part 15

Dooley goes to Camp!

Remember how you used to go away for summer camp for a couple of weeks every summer? We decided to fly out to Colorado for a couple of weeks, and flying means we couldn’t take Dooley ☹  So we did what our parents used to do , We sent Dooley to summer camp for a couple of weeks! I wonder if my parents missed me as much as I missed Dooley?  … . . . Somehow I doubt it :}  Dooley loves summer camp, and he loves his camp counselor, Miss Caroline too. He gets to learn new tricks, play with other dogs, and cats, get some good training and socialization from the experience. I get to spend a couple of weeks without worrying about Dooley eating my socks and underwear! (If you know… you know)

Dooley’s new trick from this trip was to learn to jump in the car without having to be lifted into the car! (Believe me, this is a GREAT trick! My back appreciates it!) The only problem is, now every time I open the door, Dooley wants to jump in. 

As you may know (from previous blogs) Telluride is a very dog friendly place, everywhere I turn I see another Doodle of some kind, and many almost exact duplicates of my sweet boy Dooley. Instead of walking around showing people pictures of my grandkids, I’ve been showing off pictures of Dooley. (Don’t worry, I have pictures of the grands as well!)

Here’s an update on my friend Bruno, the maitre’d from Italy, who was about to get his United States citizenship. (See: Adventures of Dooley and Me Part 11) I asked him if he had been home to Italy yet, to see his parents. He said: “Yes! And I have never been so proud as when I landed back in the U.S. at LaGuardia airport; showed my passport to the Customs official, and he said “WELCOME HOME!”. I was proud to be HOME, in The United States of America!”

Wow, what a refreshing statement!

Dooley and Me will be driving across The Good ol’ USA again very soon! See you there!

DAY OF THE DEAD?

Day of the Dead?

November 05, 2023  /  Joe McClure

The Day of the Dead?

I know, I promised to give you some more Adventures of Dooley and Me. We finally got home a few days ago, and I’ve had plenty to catch up on, and I’ll get to that soon. But my question today is: What’s this with the Day of the Dead? How have I gone 67 years and never heard of this phenomenon, er… day?  It’s apparently on a lot of people’s minds this year.

This time of year has been pretty weird for me for the past 4 years. The Irony of having open heart surgery on Halloween has never been lost on me. The bleeding out internally, having my heart stop, for some period of time, and being in a coma for 3 days, (apparently during The Day of the Dead) wasn’t part of the plan. Well… it wasn’t part of MY plan!

Well, this isn’t about me, as my sweet buddy Dooley nuzzles my hand for some love, today I’m thinking about, and remembering companionship from my furry friends throughout the years.

My very first pet was given to me by my Gramps. He was a sweet little Beagle puppy named Sam. My parents were NOT happy about this gift. Sam wanted lots of attention and was quite vocal about that… I came home from school one day and Sam was gone. I was told he escaped through a hole in the fence. I rode my bicycle around my neighborhood for a year calling Sam’s name. (the neighbors loved that!) I never found him.

Other pets early on involved cats, I had several as a child. There was Zero and P-40, a brother and sister who were constantly chasing each other around the house. Linus, an orange tabby, who ruled the house, (including my brother’s dog). Poco Skeekrah, which actually means “Little Voice” in two separate languages! And later there was, Smokey, Spooky, Shadow, Trixie, Mr. Rogers, Downy, Jinx, and Bill. (Bill was a sickly little fellow, in a litter of Kittens, his name was a result of all the Vet bills we paid.)

Then there were our dogs. The first one’s name was Valentine, a mostly black mutt who would stand out in the rain and bark, … constantly. We had to find Valentine a different home. The kids were scared of him. Then our neighbor brought over a beautiful Springer Spaniel we named Jesse. Jesse and Cotton the Cat got along very well and Jesse was everyone’s pet. They both lived happy long pet lives, we miss them.

Then there’s Boo. We met Boo on Halloween. He was calm, sweet, and loving at a party with 50 people in a crowded small room. His original name was Boogie, but we thought Boo was appropriate. Boo was great, you can read more about him at A Wagging Tail — Joe Songs Music   And there’s Dooley, he has his own blog.

I’ve had a few people wish me “Happy Resurrection Day” on Halloween and even now, The Day of the Dead. It seems a little blasphemous to call it that. But I know God was guiding all of those doctors, nurses, family, friends, and furry friends. I owe them every day I have left. I thank you for your love and support. And I’m wishing all of you going through your own Day of the Dead, remember them and smile through those tears…

Dooley at Jesse and Cotton’s resting place…

The Adventures of Dooley and Me - Part 14 - To Home

The Adventures of Dooley and Me Part 14- To Home

April 28, 2023  /  Joe McClure

The Adventures of Dooley and Me Part 14

Telluride To Home …

1,750 miles, a long way to go … but I like this way of traveling, seeing old friends and making new ones along the way. When you’re heading out it’s an adventure! The whole strange excitement of not knowing what’s coming, but knowing it will be new, challenging, stunningly beautiful at times, and sometimes not so much. But when you head home there’s a yearning, an almost magnetic pulling of your mind and soul. You’re looking forward to the familiar, the comfortable, the known.

Dooley and I encountered just about every kind of weather you could think of, as we put over 6,000 miles on our hearts, minds, bodies, and the car, crossing the country. Gentle, silent falling snow, blizzards, white outs you couldn’t see through, Blow-your-car-off-the-road winds, Dust storms you couldn’t see through, gentle rain, Rain storms you couldn’t see through, very cold cold, very hot heat, and crystal clear skies, all make for some great adventures!

Basically, we went the same way home, I’ve mentioned Albuquerque (see Adventures of Dooley Part 13) Lubbock was incredibly windy. I was told that that was not unusual. We had to find a place out of the wind for Dooley to do his business. (You don’t want that to be blowing everywhere.)

Austin is one of my favorite cities, there’s always something going on … I have a lot of friends there … good times … great music … We went to see my friend Judy Painter sing in a songwriter round, she was the Folk Singer in the group. There were a couple of honky tonk music singers as well … I prefer folk music ... Judy’s fantastic. Check her out at Judy Painter Music - YouTube , “Salvation Thru the Rear view Mirror” or on facebook Judy Painter Music | Facebook

Lake Charles was again, fun casinos, and great food at Pat’s of Henderson. This time I got to know Nick better. (The owner of Pat’s) He took me to his office, to check out his new guitar, and we agreed to jam next time I came through…

On to Mobile … Lee Baby’s doing good, and Wintzell’s Oyster House is still awesome. Next time we’re going to meet up with some other old friends in the area…

From Telluride … back to, Georgia, where the air is heavy humid and hot, Dinglewood hot dogs, Dogwoods, and pollen, … Dooley loves running through his favorite pasture … drinking from his pond … sniffing out the geese, ducks, and deer, raccoons, rabbits, and armadillos, … … and whatever lives in that hole …

From Telluride … back to, Georgia, where the air is heavy humid and hot, Dinglewood hot dogs, Dogwoods, and pollen, … Dooley loves running through his favorite pasture … drinking from his pond … sniffing out the geese, ducks, and deer, raccoons, rabbits, and armadillos, … … and whatever lives in that hole …

Then there’s that feeling when you walk into a restaurant, and know half of the people in there … or go listen to a local musician, and know almost everybody … getting your hair cut by the same person who’s been cutting it for 40+ years … enjoying spring weather in Georgia …

We’re still having adventures … Every day… is an adventure, as well as a blessing … not knowing what’s coming, but knowing it will be new, challenging, stunningly beautiful at times, and sometimes not so much … Stay tuned … Thanks for reading … And check out my song, ‘Going back to Georgia’ at Life Happens — Joe Songs Music

The Adventures of Dooley and Me - Part 13 Albuquerque

The Adventures of Dooley and Me Part 13

April 25, 2023  /  Joe McClure

The Adventures of Dooley and Me Part 13

The trip home… Packing, People, Places, Peaks, Personalities, … Albuquerque 

There comes a time when you gotta go home … that’s true in so many ways … I can think of several different metaphors to drift into … (maybe there’s a song in there!) Dooley and I packed for several days … it’s amazing how much junk you can accumulate in 3 months' time; dog toys, treats and stuff, gloves, warm clothes, long underwear and long hair that you won’t need after you get to New Mexico, but you have to wear until then …

One thing Dooley and I have noticed … This is one beautiful country.  It's amazing how different and beautiful each state, city, and region is. Every place is beautiful in its own way, but still as different as night and day. It’s no wonder that different parts of the country attract and grow different kinds of people. Dooley and I found that people, … just like the land, … have their own beauty. Sometimes you have to look for it, but often it just surprises you, even when you’re not looking for it or expecting it.

Albuquerque is particularly beautiful in its own way. While we were there you could see for miles and miles. You could watch a snowstorm on a mountain 75 miles away to the north, while a rainbow was forming in a rainstorm, in the desert 100 miles south. I highly recommend the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa in Barnallilo, New Mexico. It’s located on the Rio Grande River just north of Albuquerque, with beautiful views of the Sandia Crest Mountain. (also called The Sacred Mountain by the Tamayan Indians)

The scenery is not the only thing Dooley and I discovered in Albuquerque. I met some nice people in Albuquerque, Thanks to a friend I met in Kerrville several years ago. Her name is Anne Benjamin. She is one of those people that light up the room, club, song circle, world … just by arriving… She has just finished a new album called “Night Bird’. It’s awesome! You can check it out here. https://anniebenjamin.bandcamp.com/album/night-bird 

She took me to an open mic, hosted by David Peters with the Albuquerque Songwriters’ Cooperative in Albuquerque. Lots of great music and good fun meeting some very talented people, … in Albuquerque! ... who knew?  …

The Adventures of Dooley and Me - Part 12

The Adventures of Dooley and Me - Part 12

April 21, 2023  /  Joe McClure

The Adventures of Dooley and Me Part 12

Grands, Dogs, and Boise …

Before we headed home, we needed just a little more road trip. We were only 750 miles away from the Grandkids (and Grand dogs), So we took off for Boise, via Moab, (Arches National Park) Green River, (We always listen to CCR whenever we go through Green River) Soldiers Summit, (a beautiful mountain pass, through the mountains) to Salt Lake City, Ogden, and Snowville, Utah. (One of the most appropriately named places I have ever been through, Snowville. The actual definition of “The middle of nowhere”.) Then up through the grasslands of Southern Idaho. To Boise, Capitol of Idaho, home of The World Center for Birds of Prey, Lucky Peak, Treasure valley, Bogus Basin, Boise State University, and The McClures, formerly of Columbus, Georgia, now of Boise, Idaho.

Dooley met the Grandkids during a Christmas visit, and they were all very happy to see each other again. The grand dogs might have been another story, but after lots of sniffing, and checking each other out, Dooley, Hamilton, and Jonas became buddies, and enjoyed each other's company. Jonas is a blue healer. Blue Healers are herders by nature. He needed a little training so he would stop herding the grandkids. Hamilton is 50% Australian Cattle dog, and 50% mutt who’s learning to quit barking so much. Dooley is a Golden doodle who is (slowly) learning not to get so excited when he meets someone new.

Grandson Jack (7) is an expert on all things Star Wars. We went to a Star Wars “Fans Strike Back” exhibition at the Discovery Center in Boise. Jack was our (and several other tourists) tour guide through the entire exhibit. He knew every character and where they were from, and who they were related to, and every light saber, (there are several different kinds) and who used it, every spaceship, who flew it, good guys, bad guys, and which Star Wars movie they were in. (Who knew there were so many? ...)

I have many friends who are now grandparents, who seem to think they get to pick what their Grandkids will call them.  They haven’t met Dorothy. When Dorothy was learning to talk, I would enter the room and yell … “Dorothy, it’s “Granpa!” Dorothy would yell back … “PeePa!” Nobody knows where the name Peepa came from, but it stuck. Dorothy (now 12) and Dooley are solid buddies too. (but she calls him Dooley!) You may remember Dorothy from my last CD release Party. She sang “Today” with me. You can listen here. Life Happens II — Joe Songs Music  She’s gonna be a star someday!

 Boise is a great place to live, there’s plenty to do, a great music scene (I met Lyle Lovett at a breakfast spot downtown) and lots of outdoor things to do. (I highly recommend the World Center for Birds of Prey) I like Boise, but I sure wish I could talk the McClures into moving back home…

The Adventures of Dooley and Me - Part 11

The Adventures of Dooley and Me - Part 11

April 17, 2023  /  Joe McClure

The Adventures of Dooley and Me - Part 11 

Children, Dogs, Grumpy Old Men, and Home … 

Why does the smallest dog bark the loudest? Why are some dogs friendly and some aren’t? Why do some bite and growl while some just want to be loved and petted? Why are some people the same way? 

Sweet dogs, Tired children, and Grumpy Old men. The world is full of all of them. And you could swap the adjectives around any way you want, it’s really all the same, Dogs can be tired, children can be sweet, and Lord knows we all can be Grumpy. There are all kinds out there in the world. But something Dooley and Me are learning, People in the world have good days and bad, regardless of where you are or what you’re doing. Some days I feel sociable and some days I don’t. Here are some people I met on my more sociable days.  

There’s Bruno, Maitre'd at the La Piazza del Villagio restaurant, from the “heel” part of Italy. He’s getting his United States citizenship in 4 days. He’s been in Telluride for 23 years. I asked him why now?  

He replied: “Cause my Mama and Papa are getting old, and for the last ten years I’ve had a Green card, and they’ve been changing the laws and now I’m afraid if I leave, they won’t let me come back. So, I join America, so I can travel safely and see my Mama and Papa.” 

He continued: “I found my American Dream here, but I haven’t been home for 43 years. I need to see my Mama and Papa. I came to the US with a sleeping bag around my waist and 500 dollars. I went everywhere looking for a job, times were tough then.” 

When you look at Bruno, (He’s tall, strong, handsome) you can’t help but think “Goodfellas”, but he’s got a heart of gold... and he wants to go home … 

Then there’s Julia, from Uzbekistan. She's making money with her recipe website. She makes up recipes and puts them on the internet. She has dual citizenship with the US and Uzbekistan but hasn’t been home for 20 years. They keep changing the laws and if she goes home, she can’t come back... she wants to go home ... 

A family from College Station Texas. The kids are VERY excited. The little girl can’t wait to go to Kids Club. Grandma is from Sweden. They were too busy with the excited kids to tell me anymore... 

Couple from New York. Teaching their kids to Ice skate. Patience ... and Love …. beautiful ... 

And a Dad from Atlanta, with his daughters on a Gondola ride. One daughter is in the Navy. So was Dad. The other daughter is still in school. It’s always nice to talk to folks from Georgia... It reminds me of home ...  

It was time for Dooley and Me to go Home …  

I hope they don’t change the laws … 

The Adventures of Dooley and Me - Part 10

Dooley and Me- Part 10 - Locals

February 27, 2023  /  Joe McClure

This is Dooley, and his new best friend, Gibbs. Gibbs is a local. He lives here with his human, Heather. They’ve been showing Dooley all the cool places to hang out. The best off-leash trails, the places where you can run and run and run and run …, meet other locals, find the best treats, and who has them … get stuck in several feet of snow, dig your way out … the kind of places locals used to take me skiing! (Yup, until I rode back to town in a sled) He’s also learned some good safety tips, like avoiding ice between the pads of his feet, … that can be painful, but Dooley can be like a lot of children I know, gloves, boots and sweaters are just too much trouble!

I have met many locals since I’ve been here. Most have been good folks you can trust, some not so much, but you can learn something from everyone you meet and everywhere you go. I would recommend that you keep your wits about you and not just take off down a trail,  into the woods, (or a bar, or a pool hall ….) because it looks like fun! It may be more than you handle … (I’m speaking metaphorically of course …… maybe)

Here’s a picture of some of my buds … sometimes they follow me … sometimes I follow them!

The Adventures of Dooley and Me - Part 9

Dooley and Me PART 9 - People and Dogs

February 23, 2023  /  Joe McClure

So, Dooley and I made it to Telluride. Dooley has done a great job adapting to throngs of people adoring him. There are people here from literally all over the world, even Columbus Georgia! Some I can spot from their accent, and some not. I love to hear a southern accent, It reminds me of home and good people, I tend to gravitate towards the sound, strike up a conversation …. Usually I know their mom, in-laws, or neighborhood … it’s a Big world, but not that big …

Good people aren’t defined just by their accents. You can meet good people at the Bar, the restaurant, the sidewalk, the elevator, the ski lift, the gondola, the airport, picking up pizza, walking your dog, minding your own business, or minding someone else’s!

There’s Blain from Louisiana. Blain’s daughter is graduating from Nursing School. He’s very proud of her. She’s been studying OB/Gyn stuff. She delivered her first baby at the hospital as a nurse a few days before, asked the parents what the Baby’s name was , … they told her … “Blain” … Karma? … Love …   Blain is a … “lineman for the county”… (they really do exist!)

Nick is from just north of NYC, He’s got kids who love to play Jazz. He loves to go hiking and camping in below freezing weather, …  3 or 4 feet of snow… Brrrr … He likes it here! …and there …

There’s Laura, who doesn’t like sushi, and her friend from Kentucky. Her dog is an Aussie Doodle named Moonshine! He and Dooley were fast friends… common names and lineage, I guess …

There’s Jonathan from Dahlonega, GA, we know a lot of the same people. I overheard him talking about B-25’s. My Dad flew B-25s in WWII.

Jared, formerly from Boone, NC, His wife is from Macon, GA. They’re moving to New York City to start their own business … If they can make it there …

Those girls from Mobile, AL … “Say snow -mobile” … they threatened to take my dog with them … I told them they should meet my friend Lee Baby! … He’s from Mobile … and he’s really sweet …

So … Dooley is teaching me to socialize, to come out of my shell, to realize that ... there are good people from all over, regardless of where they’re from, … or even how they act … Just greet them with a smile and a sweet puppy sniff! Some will growl back, and some will ignore you … but some are dealing with stuff you’ll never know, and some will appreciate the smile and the Good Will, and I will try to love and appreciate them … though I may not hang around them very long …

The Adventures of Dooley and Me - Part 8

February 09, 2023  /  Joe McClure

The Adventures of Dooley and Me – Part 8 To Hell you Ride! At Last

Travel, while it is an adventure, by the obvious nature of it, requires change, the coming and going of the beautiful people you meet, the people you miss by leaving, and the people who leave us.

They say the only constant in this world is change.

Most of us (come on admit it) don't like change. Change in our world, change in our daily routine, change in our perspectives, change in our friends, change in our circumstances. Changes, changes, changes. If we don't change, if we don't grow, we die. Period. It's a law of nature. If we aren't growing, we are dying.

The change weighing on my heart the past few days is losing Loved ones. No, it’s not just people dying, it’s people leaving, moving away, moving on with their lives. Good people who continue to grow and Live their lives, even when it means facing change, People who enrich my life, whether they are next door or 3,000 miles away. 

For the past 13 years, I’ve been spending several months a year in and around Telluride, Colorado. I have been blessed to make real true friends here and meet some fascinating people. I’ve been told the average time for people who live in/or own property in Telluride is 3-5 years. I’m finding that to be pretty accurate. Of course there are those who come here and never leave, but they seem to be the exception.

Last night Dooley got to witness his first poker game, yep, a bunch of guys, sitting around being guys. Dooley is my good luck charm BTW. I cleaned up! (So did Dooley, when he snuck that piece of pizza off the counter.)

But it was also a see – ya - later party for another person moving on in the world. I’ll miss you Jonah. Thanks for being patient in teaching me how to play Texas Hold’em … Even though I took all your money!

I have good friends in this town, and all over this country. … I hope that never changes …

 …

The Adventures of Dooley and Me - Part 7

The Adventures of Dooley and Me - Part 7 Durango

February 08, 2023  /  Joe McClure

The Adventures of Dooley and Me Part 7 - Durango

Picking up Poop/ and Snow!

Cleaning up after your dog is just simply not fun. It’s something I have rarely done in my previous dog ownership experience. I’m not talking about cleaning up the carpet or an “accident” in the playroom. I’m talking about picking up freshly deposited poop from a commonly used outdoor location.

Dooley and I are learning… At home we’re used to me opening the door and letting him go where he wants. It’s simple, easy, relatively clean, and I’ve been perfectly happy with that plan for 30+ years of pet ownership. The world is changing, and changing locales, weather conditions, local mores, and rules, require adaptation, from owners and pets. Dooley has lived his life thus far, looking for, and enjoying grass, pine straw, leaves and dirt, as his depository locations. As we traveled through Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, these “normal” locations were fairly easy to find, although the cleanup was becoming more and more necessary, as well as required.

Durango, Colorado was Dooleys first contact with snow. It was quite exciting for both of us. We had to stop in Durango because a snow storm had closed Lizard Head Pass over the mountain to Telluride. Getting out of the car onto the icy, snowy parking lot must have been great to watch, a careful step here, a careful step there, a moderate slide… It felt very comical with Dooley pulling me across the ice, both of us slipping and sliding!

A quick look around the parking lot revealed 3 and 4 foot piles of snow where there should be grass and dirt. Hmmm … where could Dooley go? We went around the hotel to a sidewalk along the Animas river that had been plowed clear and found a very small patch of dirt next to a small tree … Bingo! Dooley was happy, I cleaned it up, all was good so far. Dooley was now ready to explore. He quickly found snow drifts to disappear into and leap out of. He loved it!

In the next 24 hours, Dooley learned how to make yellow snow, and pretend it was grass, and I learned to clean poop out of the snow. (The trick is to get to it before it melts down into the snow)

Living and Learning Y’all, … Life is Good!

Next Stop: Telluride …

The Adventures of Dooley and Me - Part 6

The Adventures of Dooley and Me - Part 6 Texas/Lubbock

February 06, 2023  /  Joe McClure

The Adventures of Dooley and Me Part 6 - Lubbock

There’s something about certain Texas towns. I’m sure it’s because of what must be the world’s largest per capita cow population in the WORLD! But now I can understand certain people’s concerns about methane gas and global warming! I would rank Lubbock 3rd in my travels across the country, as far as the prevalence of cow produced methane smells… (Since you asked… Amarillo is number 1, Clovis, New Mexico is 2nd.)  At least in Lubbock it depends on which way the wind blows…

Georgia boy, and his dog visit Twin Peaks! … Huh?

So we check into a “pet friendly” hotel in Lubbock, fortunately, upwind from the cattle yards. I ask the front desk if there’s a “pet friendly” restaurant nearby. He says right across the parking lot, a place called Twin Peaks. I told him thanks for the tip as I look out at a sign with two mountains in the logo and thought to myself: “Mountains? In Lubbock? Ain’t no mountains around here".  

Me and Dooley walk into a pretty nice, rustic sort of bar/ restaurant with lots of TVs and dead animal heads on the wall. Dooley didn’t know what to think about the creatures staring down at him. I didn’t’ know what to think about the creatures walking around with short shorts and … well, … Twin Peaks took on a whole new meaning! As well as the term “pet friendly”!  

Yep, Dooley’s a chick magnet!

Next up: Durango, Colorado : Snow and poop!

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The Adventures of Dooley and Me - Part 5

The Adventures of Dooley and Me Part 5 - Texas/Austin

February 05, 2023  /  Joe McClure

The Adventures of Dooley and Me Part 5 – Texas/ Austin

Keep Austin Weird -Please!

I don’t know where to start about Austin and middle Texas. So many good people, great music, and weird things to do. Just imagine; There’s Gruene Hall, Luckenbach, Hippie Church, The Snake Farm, Wine Country, Esther’s Follies, Fredericksburg,  Austin “The live music Capitol of the world” (the best music can be found around a campfire in somebody’s back yard!)

Dooley likes it too, (well, except for the snake farm) There are water bowls, treats and dog lovers at every door step. And Dooley loves dog lovers!

A few words about some of these:

Gruene Hall: I saw Ray Wylie Hubbard there, plus several other cool people.

Luckenbach: bucket list spot for people all over the world, I’ve played in their song circle a few times. Good folks there. If you haven’t heard of Luckenbach, Look up, Waylon, Willie and the Boys…

Wine Country: Well, at least the music’s good!

The Snake Farm: Just ask Ray Wylie about it!

Next up: Lubbock: A country boy, and his dog… can survive!