We enjoy a tv show called the “Dog Whisperer.” The star, Cesar Millan, says that it is important to mark the migration of the pack. He says to take long walks every day and to let the dogs sniff and smell and mark along the way. That way when they get to their new home everybody is adjusted and together.

Well, we are sniffing and marking all right! The main adjustment for them seems to be that they have never been to a motel before and the sounds from upstairs and around our room make them a little bit anxious.

Our car is WAY overloaded. Last night we decided (similar to the covered wagons coming west more than a century ago) to ditch a couple of boxes this morning and to rearrange things so more of the weight is forward. We’ll move Tiko the bird to the back. He gets out tomorrow anyway to stay with my best friend in San Francisco.

So, a little delay this morning in Medford as we repack the car and look for a Goodwill box to dump things in. Then we’re off to San Francisco to visit with my best friend and sister until we head out again Tuesday morning.

We’ve been listening to the new Harry Potter book in the car and have been enjoying the scenery in Central Oregon. This morning: California.