Petey said he felt a little sad when he realized we had moved as he really liked our old home but he knew we had to do it as Mom and Dad aren't as young as they used to be and it was a big place to look after. He told me he was relieved too as he knew it was hard for Mom to do everything on her own, especially looking after that darn big fish pond and those fish which had been so gigantic the last time he saw them. He said Benjie and Kacey really liked the new place because it was so sunny where their cage was now. He told me he was really happy at how well I was looking after everyone for him and asked me to give Mom and Dad a kiss for him. 

It seems the busy season means that they had to come early to see me and make sure I would be on top of things around here as they were going to be really busy helping Santa and the elves get everything ready for the BIG night. They are giving me a break this year because its been so crazy around here with the move and Dad being sick so they haven't given me any big project to handle. I am kinda disappointed actually. I like helping Petey and know he always took really good care of everything around here. Maybe I'll just plan a small party and surprise him just to show him I haven't forgotten everything he taught me before he left to work with Santa and Chris full time. They'll both be with Santa when he visits on Christmas Eve so I will get everything ready so they can take a break and refuel with goodies before they take off for the rest of their trip.

I've made a couple of new friends here. Right next door there is the coolest little tiny poodle named Tallulah. She has a brother named Slate who is always around too but she is just beautiful and  between you and me she kinda makes my heart beat faster every time I see her. We've had a few play dates but no where near enough to suit me. Mom teases me and tells me its what they call "puppy love". Maybe she's right but it sure feels good when Tallulah is around. That darn fence is a bit of a pain though. Thank goodness Tallulah's Dad takes pity on me and lets her visit my yard when he can.

Mom isn't too thrilled though when we are all out at the same time. Because of the fence we have to communicate through it and Slate, being a boy too, is always ready for an argument which I can't help joining in with. We do make quite a racket but so far the neighbours haven't got together to complain.  Maybe when I have my Christmas party I'll invite Talullah and Slate too and Slate and I can sort out our differences. Maybe Santa can tell him I'm not his enemy and want to be friends. Or maybe Chris could do it better as he isn't as big as Santa and Slate is only a little guy. I'll ask Chris if he will do it when he and Petey do their final check up around here before Christmas Eve.

 I did get good news the other day Racqui Racoon is coming by because he wants to see Petey  and Dusty is coming to visit as well ! This party may end up being bigger than I was planning. Petey sure has a lot of friends who all seem to show up this time of year. Even Joey sent word that he and his family will be passing through around Christmas on their way to see family who live up here and he may be able to come by for a short visit. He says he loves the snow we get as in New Orleans they hardly ever see even a single snow flake. Can you imagine that ? No snow for Christmas ! Joey sure sounds happy these days. Its really neat that Petey and Chris were able to help him find his family again. Of course most of these guys were before my time but Petey filled me in about all of them so I feel as if they are all old friends of mine too. 

Petey sure left me big shoes to fill and if I am going to get this party set I guess I better stop talking and get busy, First I have to make sure that Mom has lots of treats around and isn't too surprised to see them all when they start showing up. This party is looking as if its going to be a lot bigger than I was planning. Goodness knows who else will show up but I do know one thing. If I am able to find myself even half as many friends as Petey has I will be a very lucky guy. 

 OK .. I'm going to get busy and if you are in the neighbourhood Christmas Eve .. stop by .., I know Santa, Chris and Petey would love it  and I promise I'll have the best party ready that I can manage. I'm older this year and I can do it . I know I can. There isn't anything we can't do if we set our minds to it and making sure others have a good time always does make me really happy.

I sure do hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and I just know Santa is going to be good to all of you.  You have all been good haven't you ? I'll be sure and go through Santa's book with him when he comes by to be sure he has you all on the good list. In fact I'll ask Chris to bring the book when he and Petey make their pre Christmas visit just to be sure Santa hasn't missed anyone, but I'll still do a last minute check with Santa as well. After all, I need to feel as if I am a part of this big night like Petey is and that's one way I can do it.  And remember one thing .. this has been a tough year for Santa as well as your Mommy and Daddy so if the presents are smaller or not exactly what you wanted don't feel bad.. it's the thought that matters most and they will all come filled with love. That's the very best present of all you know.