[abbie's mom]

Because of the many tragic losses read about from YTers, we've been really working on our pooches concerning the front door. When someone comes in or goes out, the door is not closed and greetings cannot be exchanged until both dogs are lying DOWN. They may be squirming from excitement, but no one gets "hello"s until they are DOWN.

OK, so, this evening dh (Mike) came home from work, and I was in the den with Hannah. Mozart and Abbie were waiting in the hall to greet The Master <g>. Suddenly, I heard Michael laughing so hard. Then, he said: "Yes, I'm laughing at you-guys! You did good, Abbie! LOL"

Later, I learned that Abbie was sitting obediently, waiting for the door to close so she could get her hugs. But, Mozart was NOT! He kept prancing around, and wouldn't lie DOWN. Suddenly, she gets up, runs over and pokes him in the shoulders as if to say "Lie DOWN, so he can come in!" And, Mozart did! LOLOLOL She then retreated to her previous spot to assume the DOWN position!