Ralph, Walter, Marley, and the rest of the dog pack

While most of us still probably haven't even purchased our turkey and trimmings for Thanksgiving Day, myself included, the cooler weather and arrival of new holiday books has me humming "It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas."

October through December has to be my favorite time of year! As any of my co-workers can tell you I absolutely welcome the cold weather. I know, I know...I am probably in the minority, but to me Autumn and early Winter always meant boots, turtlenecks, and long wool skirts. I love the nip in the air, the crunch of dried leaves under my feet, and hot apple cider. Ahh, sweet memories!

Anyway, while enjoying the Wednesday off I finally got the chance to begin my holiday reading. Angus (the very spoiled Schnauzer/Terrier mix) and I cuddled up on the couch together to read "The Christmas Dog" by Melody Carlson. While many of you have enjoyed reading about Marley and the infamous Walters (both Barry's and Kotzwinkle's) I would suggest you take a quiet afternoon to get acquainted with Ralph.

Although Ralph may be your ordinary stray dog, Carlson's heartwarming story reminds us of the extraordinary companionship between humans and their canine counterparts. This story is the perfect way to spend a few hours tucked under the covers of a wool blanket for a chilly November afternoon. I love Ralph and I'm sure Angus would enjoy sharing a biscuit or two with him as well. Carlson has delivered yet another classic Christmas story with enough cheer and good will to tide you over while you and your dog await Santa's visit.

Angus has some recommendations for other animal stories, plus you don't have to go barking mad waiting for a copy of these:

"Favorite Dog Stories" by James Herriot
"Rex and the City: A Memoir of a Woman, a Man, and a Dysfunctional Dog" by Lee Harrington
"Merle's Door: Lessons from a Freethinking Dog" by Ted Kerasote
"It's Okay to Miss the Bed on the First Jump: And Other Life Lessons I Learned from Dogs" by John O' Hurley
"Living a Dog's Life: Jazzy, Juicy, and Me" by Cindy Adams

-Kim