Little sister writes

Tosca here, checking in. Some of you have been worrying about me.

Well, don't. There's no need.

I might not have been too happy at first to get a big sister with enormous feet and a giant tongue, but it's really good fun now.

We have great walks, and I respond when she is called, so that I get to share the treats. I'm getting fitter, and I never need to be carried like Rachel thought I would.

I like to hang out with my sister. We love sunbathing.

Margery and the Lovely Son noticed right away that I was more confident with a big sister around. She wouldn't let big dogs bully me, but she knows that I am really the duchess in this house. She has respect for my age and position.

Rachel says a more doggy household suits me, and that I'm not just a form of oddly-disappointing cat any more. She can be rude, that Rachel. I may sleep in the cat beds, but that doesn't make me a cat.

Mind you, I've noticed that she's not coping very well with the extra mud and hair. Look: disgraceful!

 And this is what causes it all!

She says I am the best dog for not shedding hair or leaving large dirty pawprints everywhere. My big sister loves mud, and water, and sticks. She's not very dainty at all, unlike me.

I also have a new bed. I share it with my sister, even though she snores, because it's big enough for two.

Or maybe three....

So don't worry; I'm in charge, and everything is going well.