Eddie and I have Mister Tom ALL figured out. We are keen observers of human behavior.  It’s a good thing he doesn’t play poker because he has too many “tells” even we dogs can see. For example, there’s a good chance we’re going OUTSIDE when he puts on his rubber moccasins. Leather leash and training collars in his hands means we get to do our obedience workout. When Mister Tom is packing stuff in the car there’s a chance we all are going someplace fun. The smell from a freshly peeled banana means we get a special, tasty treat. We also know his different hiding places for all of our treats!  The sound of a plastic bag opening means there is the possibility of a treat. Heck, these human critters are way too easy to figure out.

We have Mister Tom pretty well trained, too. In the early evening we make sure to follow him wherever he goes and sometimes softly whimper.  If we do that he finally succumbs and feeds us our dinner. When we pace back-and-forth to the door he eventually takes us OUTSIDE. If we bring him a toy we can trick him into playing with us. And, if we lie down and roll on our side we are assured of some belly rubs.

EYES TO THE HEART (Copyright 2013 by Buster J. Brown)

I see his face and watch his eyes.
They tell me thoughts that underlie.

Both eyes fixed and intense,
His determination I can sense.

Stern looks and eyes scrunched,
Something wrong is my hunch.

A gaze of lazy contemplation,
Nothing happening in my estimation.

Open, smiling, eyebrows raised,
I sense approval and praise.

Telltale expressions do impart,
The true intentions of his heart.