Meet My Neighbor, Jules

This is my neighbor, Jules. She is a sweetheart despite her size and has the calmest demeanor I have ever seen in a dog. Jules is a St. Bernard and was rescued from the pound a couple years ago after she was abandoned by her original owner. Today she lives in my apartment building with her new owner and is loved by everyone who meets her on the street.

Here is another photo of Jules. You will appreciate her size from this photo.

Jules and my other neighbor Spike never fail to make me smile every time I see them even if I had bad day. I don't know what it is but they always make me go goo-goo-gaa-gaa over them. My voice rises and I start to make weird noises and say unintelligible words to them. Most importantly, my worries miraculously disappear...for at least a couple of minutes or so.

What or who makes you smile every time you see it/him/her?

Close Encounter of the Third Kind

I saw this horseshoe crab at the fish market last week. It was still alive even though it has been sitting on ice for hours on the display case. I have never seen one up close before so I was totally intrigued.

Horseshoe crabs, despite the name, are more closely related to scorpions and spiders than regular crabs. They have remained almost unchanged since 500 million BC and are therefore, considered living fossils. One reason these animals are so resilient is their ability to prevent bacteria infection in their bodies. Scientists are currently studying their immunity system to find ways to understand and hopefully, one day replicate its mechanism for human use.

Pigeon Nesting on the C

As I was walking home from work, I saw a young boy sitting on his father's shoulder looking intently at the top of a pharmacy store. He started pointing at something excitedly and his father smiled.

I looked at the direction where the boy was gesturing and saw a pigeon nesting on the cradle of C in the P-H-A-R-M-A-C-Y sign. If you look closely, you can see two eggs sitting precariously on the edge of the nest. According to Wikipedia, pigeons lay just two eggs per season so these two eggs are probably the only eggs in the nest.

If you love nature photos, you should check out Brookville Daily Photo by Abe Lincoln. He has some of the most beautiful nature photos I have ever seen. And most of them are taken in his backyard.

So what is in your backyard?

Sea Gull @ Hell's Gate

Here is another photo taken at Hell's Gate in Astoria. The sea gull in this photo is used to having humans around it. It shifted its body a few times to show some discomfort but at no time did it try to fly away as I approached it with my camera. In fact, after shooting a half dozen or so frames, I walked by it and the bird completely ignored me.

I was quite offended!! Apparently, this human isn't threatening enough.

Chow Chow

This is a Chow Chow, a breed of dog that originated from Mongolia and Northern China. Chow Chows are believed to the original inspiration behind the traditional Chinese Foo Dogs that are commonly found in front of stately mansions and palaces in Asia. DNA research has found that they are one of the first primitive breeds to evolve from wolves.

Distinct characteristics of the Chow Chows are the poofy manes and black/purple tongues. They are especially independent and loyal to the family but are not very sociable to strangers or other dogs. Their behaviors are commonly characterized as similar to those of cats than dogs.

This photo was taken outside a Starbucks in Astoria. I was there to take some photos of the bridges and stopped at a Starbucks for some Chai Latte to warm my chilled bones when I saw this gorgeous dog outside the store. I ran out and asked the owner if I could take some photos. The dog was not very cooperative but I managed to get a couple good shots of it.

Do you have a favorite breed of dog OR a favorite drink at Starbucks?

How Many Dogs Do You See??

On my way home from work earlier this week, I bumped into this professional dog walker in my neighborhood. His job was to take these dogs out for their daily walk so they can "do their business" and get some exercise and fresh air.

Dog walking is a professional job in New York City, believe it or not. Some dog walkers do make quite a handsome wage. After doing some research on Craig's List, I found out that the going rate for dog walking is $15/day/dog for two 15-minute walks a day. Some higher end professionals charge up to $500/week/dog although they tend to limit the number to two to three dogs per walk.

The person in this photo has quite a number of dogs with him. Can you count how many dogs he is walking?

Looking For Love

Hi everyone, I am single and I am looking for someone special to share my life. I have beautiful blue eyes, salt & pepper hair, and a smile that can melt a thousand hearts.

I enjoy holding hands, taking long walks in the park, cuddling at night and even a belly rub once in awhile. I promise to listen to all your problems, laugh at your jokes, and cheer you up when you are down. I will no judge you if you did something wrong or complain about your cooking even if it is bad. I will always be happy to see you when you get home from work. And if you like, I will give you lots and lots of kisses.

My friends say I am loyal, smart, easy-going, and fun to be around. I will be the perfect companion for you. If you have children, I have to admit I love kids. And kids love me too.

Don't be shy! I know you are out there. Come on, write me an e-mail at CutiePetudie@SinglePerson.Com. I promise to respond to every e-mail.