The snow seems like a distant memory now, but when it was here Buddy and Star had an encounter with a snowman. Just as they had got used to the field across the lane from us being covered in cold wet white stuff, the local children built a snowman. This was something new, an odd development in a usually flat area, and had to be carefully approached. It was interesting to watch their reactions.
They both noticed it as soon as we entered the field, and there was a slight stiffening in both their body language. At first they stared at it, and then kept a wary eye on it as we made our way down the field, through the snow. Star would have left it well enough alone, but Buddy is either braver or more curious, so he began to do a funny over excited run towards it. It looked as if it were a demonstration of his own playfulness and an invitation to play. When the snowman didn't respond, he suddenly halted, and stood stiff legged and tailed while he issued some short sharp barks. At that point Star ran over to him and joined in the barking.
This happened three or four times, the playful run followed by the stationary barking. When the snowman still declined to respond, they carefully tiptoed up to him, sniffing around his base thoroughly before giving it an inimitable doggy christening. Whatever it was, they seemed to be thinking, it was harmless, and what's more it was theirs. So they both cocked their legs up him, yes our Star is an assertive little soul, before running off to try to catch the scent of the rabbits that frequent the field among the trees.
So that was Buddy and Star's encounter with a snowman. I doubt that Raymond Briggs will use it as the basis for a sequel but it kept me amused on a cold winter's day.
Take care,
Julie xx