every once in a while i have to force myself to take a break from the client shoots and the post-production work, prepping orders and photo-book design, to snap a few of my wild boy merrick as he assimilates to the world around him.  over these past eight months since we got him out of his former “situation”, it’s been a joy to watch him come out of his shell, to blossom into a more confident, fun-loving, tail-wagging maniac, and learn how to be a real dog from his big sister, matea.

from his most excellent group walk with Waterloo Dog on Sunday, to a visit from a new little friend, and a few new toys, merrick’s had a most excellent week …

… although he’s still finessing the mid-air snatch …

also this week, besides refining his new trick “roll” …

… he picked up another new one  — “turn” — where he does a 360-degree spin.  of course, the “roll” and the “turn” are often done several times in rapid succession as we ramp up to a toss of the ball.  he’s getting really good at sequenced commands.

maybe one day we’ll even make a video.  for now though, merrick wishes every a most excellent weekend … in spite of the snow we saw coming down this morning.