Tag: fiction

Life with Emma in the Desert-Holidays Old Friends and New Beginnings

Holidays, Old Friends, and New Beginnings

by Emma the White Dog

We made it through the holiday season, and I have to say — it was a very good one. Christmas Eve day turned out to be especially special for my human, Bill, and for me too.

Some of Dad’s longtime friends from Colorado were visiting Tucson, and we met them for lunch on Christmas Eve. We hadn’t seen each other for several years, so there was a lot to catch up on — stories from the past, what life looks like now, and plenty of laughter in between. I stayed close, listened carefully (dogs are excellent listeners), and enjoyed being right in the middle of it all.

They were curious about my Ask Emma newspaper columns and my website and blog, and I was happy to hear Dad explain how I share a dog’s-eye view of life here in SaddleBrooke. It made my tail wag to know that something that started as a little idea has turned into a way to connect with so many people.

We were also taken such good care of by our server that day. Everything felt easy and unhurried — good food, good company, and the kind of conversation that reminds you how nice it is to reconnect. I posed politely for a photo and made sure to thank our server for helping make the afternoon feel festive and fun.

Emma and our friends, as Emma thanks our server for taking such good care of us.

After that, the holidays slowly settled down, as they tend to do. Decorations came down, routines returned, and things grew a little quieter — which is when I usually find myself thinking.

Sitting on the Rock, Thinking About What Comes Next

Over the holidays, I also spent some time sitting on a big rock near our community center, just watching the world go by. People were walking, golf carts were humming along, and the desert looked calm in that quiet way it gets when things slow down for a moment. I like sitting on rocks. They’re solid. They don’t rush you. They’re good places to think.

Emma on the big rock… thinking.

While I was there, I remembered something a friend had recently told my human, Bill. They said that 2025 was known in the Chinese calendar as the Year of the Snake — a time meant for shedding old layers and preparing for what comes next. I’ll admit it: calendars aren’t really my specialty. I mostly go by mealtimes and walks. But the idea stayed with me, because it felt true.

Last year, it seemed like a lot of us — humans and dogs alike — let go of things. Some people cleared out closets or garages. Some said goodbye to routines that no longer fit. Others had to let go of things they never wanted to lose at all. Dogs notice these changes. We notice when the house feels different, when hearts are heavier, when quiet lasts a little longer than usual. We don’t always understand the reasons, but we understand the feeling.

Whether anyone meant to or not, many of us came through 2025 a little lighter, a little changed, and maybe a little clearer about what matters. And now here we are — 2026 — standing at the beginning of something new.

Humans often talk about New Year’s resolutions, and I’ve noticed they usually sound very serious and a bit stressful. Big promises. Big plans. Dogs don’t really do resolutions. We wake up, stretch, sniff the air, and meet the day as it comes. If yesterday was hard, we try again today. If yesterday was good, we don’t assume tomorrow owes us anything — we just stay open.

Maybe that’s what a new year really needs. Not a long list or a perfect plan, but an open attitude. A willingness to try. A hope for more good days than bad ones, and the patience to accept that both will probably show up. Renewal doesn’t have to be dramatic. Sometimes it’s as simple as paying attention, being kind, or choosing not to carry everything forward just because you always have.

As I sat on my rock, I realized that beginnings don’t always arrive with fireworks or fanfare. Sometimes they arrive quietly — like stillness, reflection, or a small decision to step into the year with curiosity instead of fear.

So as 2026 unfolds, I hope you begin it paw-sitively. Open to what’s new. Gentle with what remains. Ready, when the time is right, to move forward.

With love and wagging optimism,

Emma 🐾

📬 Got a question for me?

Email me at emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!

To subscribe to Life with Emma in the Desert, enter your email below and click Subscribe so future posts arrive right in your inbox.

Life With Emma in the Desert — Busy Days, Kind Helpers & Holiday Joy

By Emma the White Dog 🐾

Hi friends — Emma here! 🐾

It’s a busy season, and I must say… I like it that way. Dad keeps me on the move, and I keep him on schedule. Maybe it’s the holidays that make everything feel more active, or maybe it’s just how we live — but I’ve learned that staying busy, meeting people, and getting things done makes life feel pretty wonderful.

And as always, wherever we go, we meet the nicest people.

A House Call for the Golf Cart

We started things off with a little concern about our golf cart. Dad wanted to be sure everything was running safely, so a very nice fellow came right to our house to check it out. He talked to Dad, patted me hello, and took the time to explain what he was seeing.

Emma with the golf cart technician at home

After a careful look, he gently explained that the cart really needed to go into the shop.

A Sad Ride… and a Happy Return

That was a tough moment for me. One day our cart was being carefully loaded onto a truck to head off for repairs, and I stood there watching, wondering when it would come home.

Emma watching the golf cart being loaded onto the truck

The good news? It didn’t take long at all. Just a few days later, our cart returned — running better than ever and ready for new adventures. I supervised the unloading, of course.

A Helpful Stop at the Hardware Store

Busy days continued when Dad had a little project that sent us to the hardware store. We were fortunate to meet a helpful fellow who listened carefully and came up with just the right solution. Dad was grateful — and so was I.

Emma thanking the helpful hardware store employee

I’ve learned that good ideas often come from kind people who take a moment to help.

Even Busy Dogs Need Rest

Now, as much as I enjoy staying active, even I know when it’s time to slow down. Every busy schedule needs a pause — a moment to rest, relax, and recharge.

Emma resting with her head near her green friend, the Grinch

A little quiet time makes the busy moments even better.

The Season of Good Will

This truly is the season of sharing and good will. One day, while Dad was dropping something into a big red pot outside the grocery store, I spent a moment with a cheerful bell ringer who was helping collect donations for those in need.

: Emma with the bell ringer outside the grocery store

It felt good to be part of something that helps others — especially at this time of year.

Cookies, Friends & a Parade to Remember

One of the highlights of the season was our big night at home before the annual SaddleBrooke Christmas Golf Cart Parade. Friends gathered for cookies, candies, breads, cider, and eggnog. The house was full of laughter, conversation, and holiday cheer.

Emma with friends in front of the Christmas tree

Later, we all settled into the driveway to watch the parade roll by. I had a front-row seat in my stroller — the best spot in the house.

Getting settled for the parade, Emma in her stroller

The carts came by one after another, all decorated with lights and music. Some rolled past slowly, glowing beautifully, while others zoomed by in a blur of colorful lights and holiday sound.

It was magical — and so much fun to share with friends.

A Holiday Goodbye for 2025

As this year comes to a close, this will be my last blog message for 2025. What a year it’s been! I’ve loved sharing our busy, happy, and sometimes surprising life here in the desert with all of you.

Thank you for reading, for smiling along with me, and for being part of my world. I can’t wait to continue this journey in 2026 — who knows what adventures the new year will bring?

Until then, I wish you a very happy holiday season and a joyful, healthy New Year.

With love and wagging optimism,

Emma 🐾

📬 Got a question for me? Email me at emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!

To subscribe to Life with Emma in the Desert, enter your email below and click Subscribe so future posts arrive in your inbox.

Life With Emma in the Desert — Busy Days, Nice People & Thanksgiving Wishes

By Emma the White Dog 🐾

Hi friends — Emma here! 🐾

We’ve been busy again… meeting people, getting things done, and finishing up one more round of our little moving project. Dad says life always feels better when you stay active and have a little fun — and after these last few days, I think he’s absolutely right. Every time we go out, I meet the nicest people… and they’re all so kind to me!

The U-Haul Adventure

To finish our moving project, Dad and I needed another U-Haul trailer.

A very nice lady helped us at U-Haul — she talked to me, smiled at me, and I even posed for a photo with her.

While Dad was loading everything into the trailer, he packed and stacked and wedged things in so tightly I wasn’t sure it would all fit. I kept looking at the pile and thinking, “Hmm… I don’t know about this, Dad.” But he kept loading… and stuffing… and pushing… and before long, the whole trailer was full! I supervised the whole operation, of course.

A Friendly Visitor From the City of Surprise

Just as Dad was tightening the last straps, a City of Surprise inspector stopped by to check on our new air conditioner installation. He said everything looked great, and he and I got along right away. I liked him so much that we took a picture together.

A Stop at the Bank

Earlier that day I also met the bank manager, who knew exactly where to scratch behind my ear. What a nice man! I sat proudly next to him for our photo.

Home Again in SaddleBrooke

Once we got back to SaddleBrooke, Dad unloaded the trailer — and I was his best cheerleader the whole time. I supervised… encouraged… and offered moral support (which is very important, as you know).

Finally, everything was done, and we took a photo with the trailer at home.

It feels wonderful to have all our important things together here in Saddlebrooke again. Now we can relax a bit more, settle in, and enjoy the good life we’re lucky to have.

November Arrives — and So Does Thanksgiving

Here we are in November, and you know what that means… the holidays are coming! And first up is Thanksgiving — a very special day for humans and dogs.

I even spent a little time with my friend Tom Turkey recently. I took him for a ride, now that Toonces has taught me how to drive. Tom has some strong opinions about November, by the way… he doesn’t quite see Thanksgiving the same way the rest of us do!

Emma’s Thanksgiving Message 🦃❤️🐾

Oh, Thanksgiving! Just saying the word makes my tail wag. From a dog’s perspective, it’s one of the most wonderful holidays of all — a day filled with delicious smells, friendly voices, and warm hearts.

Dogs may not understand the history behind it, but we do understand gratitude. We feel it every day — for a soft bed, a gentle pat, a shared walk, or a treat given with love. On Thanksgiving, the feeling fills the house. We can sense our humans slowing down, gathering together, and remembering what matters most.

Of course, we secretly hope for a little taste of turkey (plain, please — no onions, gravy, or stuffing for us!). But mostly, we’re thankful just to be near our people — curled up under the table, watching and listening as laughter and stories flow.

If I could give one Thanksgiving wish from all of us dogs, it would be this: take a moment to look into our eyes and know that we love you completely, without words. You’re our whole world — and that’s something to be thankful for every day.

With love and a grateful heart,

Emma 🐾

📬 Got a question for me? Email me at Emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!

To subscribe to Life with Emma in the Desert, enter your email below and click subscribe so future posts arrive in your inbox.

Life with Emma in the Desert-Fire Fighters Big Bertha and Autumn

Firefighters, Big Bertha, and Fall in the Desert

Hi friends — Emma here! 🐾

I’d love to share some of my latest adventures with you. One of them began in the middle of the night with a mysterious “chirp… chirp…” sound. Dad said, “Oops, a smoke detector battery must be low.” Luckily, it was one he could reach, so the chirping didn’t last long.

But that sound was our reminder — when one smoke detector needs a new battery, they all probably do. Most of ours are way up on the ceiling, far too high for Dad to reach safely. And between us, I really don’t think he should be climbing ladders anyway!

That’s where our wonderful Golder Ranch Fire Department came to the rescue. Did you know they’ll come to your house and change out smoke detector batteries if you supply the batteries? They sent a whole team of friendly firefighters, and I watched every move they made to be sure the job was done right.

They were so kind and professional, and it made me feel proud and safe. We’re lucky to have such dedicated people in our community who don’t just put out fires — they help keep homes like ours protected. Batteries should be replaced once each year, maybe on a schedule so you do not forget, like every New Years Day or even on your birthday, what better present is there than safety/protection.

A big thank you to all firefighters for your hard work, courage, and the many ways you help keep our neighborhoods safe. 🧯❤️🐾

Meet Big Bertha 🌵

After all the excitement with the smoke alarms, it was time for something new in the yard.

Dad decided to plant something special where a small palm tree used to be. Now we can see the mountains from our front courtyard so much better — and what better way to celebrate than with a desert beauty?

We visited a cactus nursery and found Big Bertha — a cactus that’s not all that big yet, but one day she’ll grow and bloom with large white flowers in the spring. Big Bertha is a type of night-blooming cereus, and when she flowers, it happens at night — the blooms are big, snowy white, and beautifully fragrant.

The gardeners planted Big Bertha in just the right spot. I was right there supervising, of course! I think she’s going to love it here.

Emma’s Autumn Poem 🍂🐾

We’re really into fall here in the desert now — the mornings are cooler, the breezes softer, and everything smells just a little different. I even wrote a poem about it.

Emma’s Autumn Poem
Cooler breezes touch my nose,
Summer’s heat begins to close.
Crunch of leaves beneath my paws,
Pumpkins waiting — I give paws applause! 🎃

Golden scents drift through the air,
Woodsmoke whispers everywhere.
Walks grow longer, mornings bright,
Evenings cozy, soft delight.

Humans smile, they love it too,
Fresh new trails, a sky so blue.
Sniff, explore, then cuddle near,
Fall’s the season dogs hold dear. 🍂🐾

Ask Emma 🐶✨

Question: Grooming and Brushing

Q: Dear Emma,
How often should I comb and brush my dog — and how often should I brush their teeth?
— Caring Owner in SaddleBrooke

A: Dear Caring Owner,

What a thoughtful question! Grooming isn’t just about looks — it’s about health, comfort, and bonding time. For dogs like me (a bichon-poodle mix), daily brushing or combing is best to keep tangles and mats away. For short-haired pups, a few times a week might do just fine. The key is to match the routine to your dog’s coat type — but honestly, we love the attention, so daily is a treat!

And teeth? Oh yes, dental care matters! Ideally, brushing your dog’s teeth every day is best (I know… easier said than done). But even a few times a week can help prevent tartar, gum disease, and bad breath. There are special dental chews — like my favorite Greenies (Yum Yum!) — and toys that help too.

So remember: brush the coat, brush the teeth, share the love — and enjoy all those extra snuggles!

Toothily yours,
Emma

📬 Got a question for me? Email me at Emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!

You can subscribe to Life With Emma in the Desert and have new posts delivered to your inbox by entering your email below and click Subscribe.

Life With Emma in the Desert-Starbucks Moving and Fall

Starbucks, Moving, and Here Comes Fall

Starbucks and a Sip of Water

Hi friends — Emma here! 🐾

We recently made a stop at Starbucks! Dad got his favorite Americano, and I settled in for some serious people-watching.

I have to say, Starbucks does have excellent water — crisp, cold, and just right for a desert pup like me. They even give me my very own cup! No lattes for me, but I’m perfectly happy with my fresh water and a nice place to rest while Dad enjoys his coffee. You might notice the REI sticker on my stroller that I talked about in an earlier post.

An Adventure in Moving

Of course, life isn’t just coffee breaks and lazy mornings — sometimes there’s work to do!

Recently we had to move a bit of furniture, which meant borrowing a U-Haul trailer.

I can’t really help lift furniture — no thumbs, you know — but I supervised everything very carefully. Dad says I’m a great helper because I kept him company and made sure he didn’t work too hard.

Once we got the trailer returned, I was more than ready for a big rest. 💤 You might say I’m the expert on recovery — cuddling up next to Dad afterward is my specialty.

Changing Seasons

It’s almost October now, and I can feel changes in the air. The mornings are cooler, and the evenings arrive earlier. There’s something exciting about the first hints of fall — a mix of playtime energy and cozy snuggles.

Fall — A Desert Dog’s Perspective

Oh, fall is such an exciting time for us pups! The air feels cooler on our noses, the ground doesn’t burn our paws anymore, and the breezes carry all sorts of new smells — dry leaves, pumpkins on porches, and even the hint of fireplaces starting to crackle at night. For desert dogs like me, it’s a welcome relief after those long, hot summer days.

We also notice that our humans get a little more energy too — longer walks, more time outside, and sometimes even trips to see the changing colors in other parts of the country. Some of us might romp through piles of leaves, while others (like me!) just enjoy the crunch-crunch under our paws on morning strolls.

But fall isn’t just about fun — it’s also a season of comfort. The days are shorter, so evenings are cozy, and we dogs love curling up next to our people as the air cools down. It’s a perfect mix of play and rest.

So yes, we notice the seasons changing, and most of us dogs think fall is pretty wonderful — a chance to explore, sniff, and snuggle, all in the same day. 🍂🐾

Ask Emma

Q: Dear Emma, my mom keeps scolding me for eating the seed pods on the golf course. Will I get sick from them, or is she just over-reacting? I just love how crunchy they are!
— Sincerely, Stanley the Black Lab

A: Hi Stanley!

Oh boy, you Labs do love a good snack, don’t you? I understand the appeal — those crunchy seed pods might seem like nature’s version of a dog treat. But here’s the thing: not everything we find on the golf course is safe for us pups to munch on. Some seed pods (like mesquite or palo verde) can cause tummy troubles, and others might even be harmful if eaten in big amounts.

Your mom is right to be cautious. Golf courses also use fertilizers, herbicides, and other chemicals that could cling to grass or seed pods. Even if one bite doesn’t make you sick, it’s always better to stick to treats your humans know are safe.

My advice? Keep the crunchy pods for the squirrels and deer, and let your mom reward you with something yummy from home when you leave the pods alone. That way, you still get a tasty crunch without the worry.

Stay happy, healthy, and maybe a little less “crunchy,” my friend!

📬 Got a question for me? Email me at Emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!
To subscribe to Life With Emma in the Desert, enter your email in the box below and click subscribe so future posts arrive in your inbox.

✈️ Life with Emma in the Desert: Flying to Minnesota!

Hi friends — Emma here! 🐾

Last time we left off, I was all buckled in on the airplane, ready for takeoff. Well, up we went, and before I knew it, we were flying high in the sky! The Delta flight attendants were so nice — one of them even posed for a picture with me while I was cozy in my travel case. They made sure my human and I were comfortable the whole way. Dogs can’t exactly order snacks and ginger ale, but I can tell you that friendly smiles make any trip better.

Flying can be a big deal for dogs — there are new smells, different noises, and all sorts of people bustling around. I think it helps when your human stays calm and keeps you feeling safe. A favorite blanket, a little water, and a reassuring word or two go a long way. ✈️🐶

“Friendly smiles at 30,000 feet!”

Before long, we landed in Minneapolis. While waiting for our rental car, we met a nice fellow named Will. My human’s name is Bill, so we had a little laugh about that. I stayed in my travel case, but I could tell Will was a dog person.

Once we had the car, my human pulled out a secret weapon — a flattened cardboard box he’d packed in his suitcase! In just a few minutes, it was transformed into my travel car seat, perched right on the console so I could ride shotgun like I do at home in Arizona. Best. Idea. Ever.

Riding shotgun, Minnesota-style!”

We headed to Northfield, Minnesota. Dad told me I was born not far from here and joined him and my mom Joanne when I was just nine weeks old. I wonder what I was like as a tiny puppy… maybe a bit wobbly, maybe a little shy, but probably very, very cute. I can imagine discovering everything for the first time — new smells, new sounds, new toys, and my very first bed in my forever home. Life as a puppy is full of “firsts” — first treats, first walks, first time figuring out that stairs are not scary after all. Looking back, I think I hit the jackpot finding my family so early. 🐾💖

Then came one of the highlights of the trip — Minnesota grass! Ohhh, the soft, cool, green grass here is something else. I couldn’t resist rolling in it, paws in the air, tail wagging like crazy. If you’ve never seen a happy dog in perfect grass… well, you’re missing out. 🌱💚

Click to see VIDEO: “Minnesota grass is the best!”

We got to see family and friends, too. There was Chrystine (my human’s daughter — so I guess that makes her my human sister?) and Joyce, my human’s sister (my human aunt?). We also saw my human’s golfing buddies, Jim Karl and Brad. There was a lot of talking, laughing, and walking — especially across the beautiful campuses of St. Olaf College and Carleton College.

Speaking of walking — I spotted a squirrel on one of those walks and took off after it. It ran up a tree faster than you can say “peanut butter biscuit.” Dogs and squirrels have a long history — they zig, we zag, they chatter from the branches, we stare up and dream of the day we might catch one. It’s never happened yet, but the chase is half the fun. 🐿️

“Almost had him!”

At the soccer fields, we met Steve and Wayne. They’ve written three books about PTSD and veterans, which they give to anyone who might need or want to read about it. They even posed for a photo with me! My human has talked to me about PTSD since reading a book about POWs in the South Pacific during World War II. It’s important — even dogs can experience it — so I’d like to share more about that in a future post when I have more time.

“Talking about something important.

Before we left Northfield, we visited the Cannon River. It winds gracefully through town, with scenic walks both above and below the dam. In downtown Northfield, you can stroll along the river’s edge and watch the water sparkle in the sunlight. Ducks paddle in the calmer stretches, and the sound of the rushing water near the dam makes for the perfect background music to a summer walk. I posed for a photo by the river, just to prove I was soaking in the scenery.

“Taking in the view.”

Busy traveling, aren’t we? But we still make time for our afternoon siestas. Here’s a photo of me on the hotel bed, ready for a nice nap before the next adventure.

“Siesta time before the next adventure.”

And that’s where we’ll pause for now… because next up, we’re off to Duluth, Minnesota. But that’s a story for another day. For now — siesta time. 💤

Until next time,
Emma 🌵🐶💖

📬 Got a question for me? Email me at Emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!

To subscribe to Life With Emma in the Desert just enter your email below and click subscribe and new posts will appear in your inbox.

Life With Emma in the Desert

Emma’s take on life, humans and the walk ahead

Emma’s Desert Dispatch: Toad Alerts, Deer Encounters, and Summer Secrets

Hi friends, it’s me, Emma! I’ve got all kinds of desert news to share, so let’s jump right in — paws first! 🐾✨

🐸 Desert Toad Alert!

My human asked me to tell all our desert neighbors — humans and dogs alike — that the poisonous Sonoran Desert toads are back! The monsoon rains have arrived, and so have these bumpy, dangerous visitors. Just yesterday, one sneaked into our garage (don’t worry, my human disposed of it before I saw).

Please be extra careful! These big toads can be deadly to pups like me if we lick or bite them. So:
✅ Stay on leash,
✅ Stay alert,
✅ No sniffing or licking mysterious things.
And hey, humans — maybe leave the frog kissing for fairy tales, okay? 💋🐸✨

🦌 Not Everything is Dangerous…

But it’s not all scary out here! For instance, just the other day, I met the most amazing creature — a Mule Deer! We had a little desert stare-down: me, a fluffy white pup, and her, all graceful with big ears.

Did you know Mule Deer get their name because their ears are as big as a mule’s? Around SaddleBrooke, they’re pretty common, especially at dawn or dusk. They’re shy but curious — just like me!

My human told me Mule Deer can jump high fences but often prefer to sneak under them. Hmm… maybe we should team up for backyard adventures?

A desert stare down….Emma and a Mule Deer.

Of course, life goes on even in the summer heat! We still have to run errands — boring stuff like returns at UPS and grocery shopping. I went along, of course, but let me tell you: what a bore! There’s a photo of me looking completely unimpressed while waiting… typical shopping trip vibes.

Waiting at UPS…

Shopping again….what a bore!

✈️ What’s With the Suitcases?

Lately, I’ve been noticing something… my human is on the phone a lot, saying things like “arrangements” and “certificates.” The big boxy things (suitcases, I think they’re called) have come out, and stuff is going in and out.

And here’s the real clue: every day, my human puts me in my little carry case and walks me around the house. It feels familiar — was I in this on an airplane once? Are we going somewhere? Should I pack extra treats?! Stay tuned, dear readers… adventure may be afoot!

🐾 Ask Emma: What Are the Dog Days of Summer?

Dear Emma,
I have heard of the Dog Days of Summer and always wanted to ask a dog what that means. Can you help me, Emma?
— Curious Sun-Lover in SaddleBrooke

Dear Curious,
Oh, I love this question — thank you for thinking to ask me! The “Dog Days of Summer” don’t actually come from us dogs lying in the shade with our tongues out (though that’s definitely part of summer style!). The phrase comes from ancient times, when people noticed that the hottest days of the year coincided with the rising of Sirius, the “Dog Star,” in the sky.

But let’s be honest — we dogs know a thing or two about summer! For us, the Dog Days mean taking it slow, finding cool spots, drinking plenty of water, and skipping the midday heat. It’s our time to practice the art of the siesta and remind our humans to relax a little, too.

So while the stars may have given the season its name, we pups have made it our own. Stay cool, my friend!

Sun-soaked and smiling,
Emma 🌞🐶

🌟 Stay tuned for the next post where I’ll reveal if I’m flying the friendly skies — and maybe share a few packing tips for fellow traveling pups!

📬 Got a question for me? Email me at Emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!

To subscribe to Life With Emma In the Desert, just enter your email below: