Charlie’s Corner

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of the Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This month, Charlie continues to search for luck, and goes for a ramble down research and fun-facts lane.   “Winnie still loves me! Either the powers that be who control the luck o’ the Irish are smiling favorably upon me or I really am the dashing, debonair doggie that I always thought I was.  Whatever it is, it’s working, and we are having so much fun together. I’m so happy it’s spring and officially warm here; it’s so pleasant to spend more time outside with Winnie. But I admit that all of this luck o’ the Irish from last month has got me more curious about Irish folklore and myth.  For example— the four leaf clover. I personally have never seen one, but I hear that they’re supposed to bring luck. There are clover patches all over Myrtle Beach since there’s so much fluffy green grass about, but I’ve never seen so much as a hint of a stem of clover with anything other than three leaves.  From my investigating, I’ve discovered that clover is actually a type of pea. Cows like to eat it; bees like its nectar; dogs like to roll in it; and humans like to walk barefoot in it.  One should be so lucky to be loved by so many diverse life forms! Maybe it’s all that appreciation that makes it so lucky and imbues its holder with a portion of good fortune.  The plant is good at pulling nitrogen from the air and transferring it into the ground for other plants to eat.  So it gives back to the flora and fauna community too. This plant is positively stealing my heart— if Winnie hadn’t already won it, that is.  At any rate, one of the best types of clover for the soil, (the one that shares so much nutrition and love with its neighbors) produces a fourth leaf on occasion when a suppressed gene fails to be repressed.  Maybe it happens when the plant is bursting with so much love it just can’t help but sprout another leaf! According to my esteemed source, the internet, the chances of finding a four-leaf clover are 1 in 10,000. That’s maybe not surprising since it’s actually a mistake of nature.  I guess it’s rather like a dog with five legs instead of four; kind of interesting if you think about it— that we come to associate the extra leaf with luck but an extra leg or two, an inconvenience. I don’t think that poor dog with an extra leg would consider himself very lucky, or that people would be running to rub his belly for some extra luck, do you?  Anyhow, in ancient times, the Celtic peoples revered four-leaf clovers and carried them around in case they met an evil spirit. Apparently, evil spirits were as freaked out by the extra leaf on a stalk of clover as I would be by having an extra leg, and they stayed far away from any who carried one.  The belief stuck around throughout the middle ages, when it was discovered, at some time, in some way, that fairies felt the same as the evil spirits; consequently, children would meander about in fairy territory without much of a care, as long as they had the requisite four-leaf clover with them.  Examples of poetry amongst ancient literature reveal another meaning for the four-leaf clover: each leaf represents fame, wealth, health, and faithful love, respectively. I like that!  Now for that patch of clover… Until next time, 

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of the Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This month, Charlie shares about his date with Winnie and takes stock of his luck.   My Valentine’s Day date with my girl-dog-friend Winnie was just as perfect as she is (sigh). Megan helped me bake dog biscuits in the shape of a heart, and I surprised her with them at just the right moment.  We were strolling through the Bark Parc in the Market Common. I had visited earlier that day and dug a hole right by my favorite tree and buried the treats. Then as we were meandering along, I took her to the spot, and told her that the earth was blooming with love and I would prove it.  I scrambled in the dirt, and sure enough, luck was on my side, as no other amorous canines attempting to woo their lady-loves, or mischievous squirrels had yet visited the spot.  Winnie was delighted, all the more so because of the presentation. I definitely earned points for ingenuity. We spent a delightful rest of the day romping in the grass, playing in the sunshine, and admiring another one of her hats.  Now I just need to keep luck on my side. Good thing that St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner. I’ll borrow a bit of the luck’o the Irish to stay on the up-and-up with Winnie.  I wonder how I get Irish luck. Is it free? Does it come with the day even if you’re not Irish? My pedigree— maltipoo poodle thank you very much— is not Irish. Not even British.  It’s a toss up if the poodle is of French or German origin, and maltipoo’s are a 100% American breed. But, there were a lot of Irish immigrants to America back in the day, so maybe being an American breed makes me inadvertently Irish in some way.  Or maybe the powers-that-be that control all that Irish luck would be a little lenient with me in borrowing some so I can continue to impress Winnie. After all, I am changing my wayward stripes and that’s gotta count for something positive, right?  Well, it’s worth looking into anyway. There’s definitely plenty of grass around, and clover usually is found in the grass, so I’m certain of finding some luck there. It’s time for me to put on Charlie’s-research cap so I can get to the root of the luck’o the Irish.  Hmmm… Apparently the word luck is of Middle Dutch origin (still not German, French or American, but okay, let’s keep going). It may be a shortening of the word, ‘luc’ or ‘gheluc’ which means good fortune. And the phrase luck of the Irish actually didn’t start in Ireland at all, but came to refer to the Irish immigrants to America who searched for gold during the gold rush, and found it.  Apparently, the Irish had a propensity for finding more gold than others, and people began to apply the phrase to their good fortune.  Well that’s good news for me! Since the term was birthed on American soil, maybe all that magic luck will overlook my birth (of which I’m very proud, by the way).  I’ll just have to cross my paws and hope for the best this month. Wish me… luck.  Until next time, 

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of the Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This February, Charlie gets warm and fuzzy feelings in his heart, and makes plans for Valentine’s Day with his new love interest.  It’s the season of love— better known as Valentine’s Day. And this year, rather than being paired up with a rather unlikely partner (my loyal fans, you know what I’m talking about— for everyone else, read the archives here), I’m pleased to say I have a girlfriend with whom to share this special day.  Her name is Winnie. And she is not a squirrel or a figment of my imagination— she is a dog, just like me. Of the maltipoo, or Bichon variety, I believe— but what’s in a classification anyway?  She’s perfect. I could just go on and on about how great she is.  We first met at one of the local festivals here in the Market Common some months back. I really liked her style. I mean, she’s a maltipoo/Bichon, and everyone knows how adorable they are.  But what drew me to her was her unique style—she has this certain je ne sais quoi if you know what I mean. (Secret aside: I need to brush up on my French as I think it is a more romantic language than English, so I am practicing now so as to impress la mi amore later this month. I think that was maybe a bit of Italian, but I’m not sure. I hope she won’t know either, and will just be impressed. I’ll just smile a lot and be my charming self. That usually does the trick. Okay, enough of this aside, it became longer than I anticipated.)  We kept bumping into one another since we’re both Market Common doggies, and run with the same circles. Every time I see her, she’s wearing a different hat. She has them custom-made down in Surfside.  Now that’s classy. I was so impressed, I got one of my own. Maybe she knew how much I admired her, because now she comes to visit me often to show me her new outfit for the day.  She is my one and only. This ladies man is retiring, to be a one-Winnie-doggie for life. We have so much in common in addition to both loving her outfits. We both like living that uptown, downtown Market Common life. She comes to the office to visit me pretty frequently, and I think she’s impressed by my journalism skills.  Every time she walks in the room, I just know it’s her. And I feel my little doggie heart go pitter patter. I’m trying to decide where to take her on our Valentine’s Day date. Perhaps my cherished tree in the dog park. Maybe I should keep it more urban though— perhaps underneath my special bench in the Market Common? I will probably bring her my favorite doggie biscuit, as I know she has a soft spot for treats.  She’s just that sweet. Maybe she would enjoy a viewing of Lady and the Tramp and playing with my collection of prized chew toys. Now that’s an idea! Stay tuned and I’ll tell you all about it next month.  Until next time, 

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of the Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This January, Charlie celebrates the New Year by embarking on his first snow adventure and turns a bit “abominable” in the process.   I have some great doggie pen pal friends. Over Christmas they invited me to join them in the mountains of Colorado where they live so we could play in person and I could see my first snow. They couldn’t believe it when I told them I had never seen snow before.  Rolf, is a St. Bernard and Tim, a Giant Alaskan Malamute, so they really dig the cold temperatures. Plus they know that I have my very own column where I write about my adventures on a monthly basis, and they wanted to provide me with some fodder for it as well as fun.  (I think secretly, they also wanted to laugh at me a bit seeing as I’m the kind of guy who’s more inclined to loll about on plush sofas being snuggled rather than hiking up rugged snow-covered mountains, but whatever.)  So Rolf wrote me:  Dear Charlie,  Can you come and play before the New Year? There’s snow. Tim will be here too. Ask Jim.    Rolf So I asked Jim if I could go for a sleepover, and he said yes, and luckily Megan was heading that direction anyway, and agreed to drop me at my friend’s house. I donned a little green and black plaid wool jacket to protect me from the cold (it also matches my Insider hat that I sport frequently, goodie!), and I was off. When our plane landed and we arrived at Rolf’s house, Megan rang the bell, and I met my friend Rolf for the first time. Boy was he huge! But oh so friendly.  We frolicked and played as dogs do in way of greeting, and Rolf accidentally drooled on me, but it was all good. Hey, friends are forgiving.   Then I met Tim too (also huge, also friendly, luckily no drool) and after a quick bowl of water, we headed into Rolf’s backyard where there was a foot of snow. I saw it when we first arrived in Colorado, but this wasn’t shoveled.  It was fluffy, light and pristine. I have never seen anything so white before in my life, excepting the luscious coat of yours truly. And when I touched my paw to it, I sank right up to my belly, and brrrrrrrrrr, was it cold. But I loved the softness and delicateness of it.  Rolf and Tim went bounding and rolling immediately, while I stayed tentatively behind, warming up to this new element. As I stepped and struggled, the snow became stuck between my paws until it was like I was walking with attached snow paddles.  Then it was time for a snowball fight— we all frolicked and rolled and romped, and exhausted from all the fun, I waddle-paddled back to the door to be let in. But as I approached, I saw standing in front of me a giant snow monster!  It had black eyes, and was entirely made of snow. ARRRGGGG I screamed, leaping two feet in the air. But when I leapt, so did the monster, and airborne, my snow-paddle feet crumbled, as well as the monster in front of me, which was just…. my reflection.  Tim and Rolf were rolling on the ground howling with laughter. But I’ll tell you, much as I enjoyed my first romp in the snow, I sure was glad to get back inside and onto the couch in front of a warm fire, where Rolf’s mom obligingly gave me a belly rub.  It’s good to try new things, but some of my favorites will always remain just that— favorites.  Until next time, 

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of the Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This December, Charlie snuggles under the Christmas tree and revels in the old-fashioned holiday tradition of branches and boughs. Oh boy the holiday season is here! I wonder if I’ll get a visit from any magical creatures this year like I did in years past. (You’ll have to visit the archives to keep up with me.)  I’m looking forward to parties, twinkling lights, and cozying up under warm blankets this time of year. But I’m even more excited about our Christmas tree. Jim just brought one home yesterday. I am very well trained, thank you very much, and so my excitement over a tree ensconced in our living room for the next month or so has nothing to do with my bathroom habits, just to be clear. There’s something so magical about a little fir tree inside the home all decked out in lights and ornaments. And the smell is simply magnificent. I wonder who came up with this tradition? And why we put decorations on it? Because I just love ferreting out facts as much as I love making new friends, let me put on my doggie spectacles and investigate the origins of this tradition. … For centuries humans have been using fir trees to celebrate festivals in the winter. Some cultures brought branches into their homes to stay hopeful during the cold, dark. and dreary winter days (they must not have lived in Myrtle Beach because it’s really not that bad here, although these were the days before indoor heating so maybe it was that bad).  The live trees and branches they collected reminded them of the impermanence of winter and the promise of spring and the abundance of life that comes with it. One source mentions that people used to hang trees upside down with chains from their ceiling.  Mmmm. That seems very complicated to me. I wonder how many people it would take to accomplish that? What are the chains attached to? I’ll bet it’s a really interesting visual though. But, this is also interesting: the first record we have of a tree being used around this time of year occurred in Latvia. Wow, neat! I’ve never been there. Two separate cities, Tallinn and Riga, claim to have been the first to have trees— and they stake that claim almost a century apart.  The custom began as a communal venture— the trees were erected in the town center, and everyone participated in singing and dancing around them, enjoying them collectively.  Over time, the custom spread throughout the Baltic region, with each locale creating their own particular ways of making merry with the tree— some lit it on fire at the conclusion of the party; others decorated it with fruits, nuts and paper flowers. The tree became a symbol that differing cultures projected onto, in order to strengthen their beliefs and create solidarity with their neighbors.  The tradition took root most strongly in Germany, where artisans blew glass to create ornaments, and fashioned pieces from pure gold. They also put edible treats on the trees. This was a time when food was more basic than the myriad of options we have today. And sweet treats and fruit really were a treat— something not that common. So while you’re decorating your tree this year to represent whatever it means to you, you can think about the people (and pets) before us doing just the same. I know I will.  Until next time, 

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This month, Charlie recounts his escape from Hurricane Florence and has a travel adventure too. Along the way there are many unexpected surprises… “Last month, when we got wind that the hurricane was coming, my Grammy, Jo­anne and I decided that the best recourse was to avoid delay, and to get out of town while the getting was good! City officials were about to sound the alarm we thought, and we wanted to beat the traffic, so we left well before there was any evacuation mandate. That left us a little more leisure time to plan where we wanted go and what we would do there. I just love riding in the car so I voted for a road trip. Luckily, Jo­anne was up for that idea, and so we decided to go to Washington D.C. to visit her brother, which would make him my grand-un­cle.  As a big family guy, I just love discovering I have new relatives. I’m not positive that he’s really my grand-uncle though, I’ll have to check on the lineage later. So I bid all my squirrel and duck friends goodbye, and took a last visit to all my favorite trees in Grand Park too. Then I grabbed a few of my chewiest chew toys, my blanket, and I was off. We listened to music on the way up, and I looked out the window at every­one and everything, which just never gets old. Washington was so different from Myrtle Beach. For starters, there aren’t any palm trees. And there’s a lot, and I mean a lot of traffic. The buildings are huge, and real­ly close together in a lot of areas. It feels very expansive and spread out, which I like. I was so excited to meet my newest family member. But when he opened the door, oh me or my! Nobody told me but he has a mal­tipoo too! Her name is Cuddles and she’s my new best friend.  We spent the next few days having all kinds of fun— playing a friendly tug of war with our collective chew toys, chasing one another around my grand-uncle’s living room, and curling up on the sofa to watch TV. We even shared the same dog dish. It was a glorious few days of connecting deeper with my malti­poo roots as reflected back to me in the eyes of my newest friend.  Soon, though, it was time to be on our way, and we promised to stay in touch as pen pals. She was very impressed that I have my own col­umn, and was excited to be men­tioned in it. When the hurricane struck it brought with it so much rain that there were many road closures. We realized that we couldn’t drive straight to Myrtle Beach, and the trip would take us twenty hours. Now I love car rides, but that is a lot for even me. So Joanne decid­ed we would fly, and she got me a seat right next to her— first class too! I admit I am a pampered pooch. She gave me a Benadryl just in case I had anxiety which made me sleepy. I was a relaxed doggie by the time we landed. My first ever flight. What an amazing journey. Now that’s one way to go through a hurricane.”  Until next time,    P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram@charlieparkerscorner.  

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This October, Charlie tunes into the wisdom of the fall season and gets identity closure. “Well, it’s certainly been a whirlwind of a few months for me as far as my identity is concerned. It all started back in the August edition when I had a DNA test done with Dr. Hardee in the Market Common to determine what breed of dashing doggie I am.  But then I got played for a fool by some rogue squirrels in the park, who told me that my loving family had told them I was part pit bull and part St. Bernard. Ah I was so duped! (You can read all about my previous mis-adventures in the September and August editions.) I cleared up the mystery finally when I went to Megan and confessed that I thought I was a part pit bull part St. Bernard for the past two months, and asked her what I really was please.  She laughed so hard at my admission that she started to cry, and I was worried she might hurt herself. But all was well. And eventually she recovered her breath to tell me that I am…Are you ready…?  Part Maltipoo and part poodle. There you have it— me! And wow when I heard that did it feel right in my doggie bones from the tip of my nose to the tip of my fluffy tail. It just goes to show that being yourself should feel both good, natural, and easy. So now I’m hard at work learning all about my particular heritage. Let’s begin with the Maltipoo. Well, first things first, people— shameless self-flattery. A quick Google search revealed images of unprecedented cuteness, which, let’s be frank, with my dashing good looks and adorable charm, really isn’t surprising. But I just mention it here because cuteness should always be celebrated whenever possible. A Maltipoo is itself a hybrid designation resulting from breeding a Maltese with a miniature poodle. Possessing a fun-loving and affectionate nature (ah shucks! Ain’t that the truth), and adaptable in terms of environment— house, apartment, yellow school bus, tent— and we can get along with practically anyone, young, old, or anywhere in between. I don’t do well alone or in the cold, but I could have told you that one, and very important for the reclamation of my self respect— we decidedly DO NOT drool. Mhmm. Non-drooler, right here. That’s right people. Record that one in the annals.  I am also very intelligent. Well, of course. What other dog do you know of that writes his own column? Well, that all made me feel warm and fuzzy on the inside in addition to being so warm and fuzzy on the outside.  I’ll save any further research for next month. And in keeping with the spirit of the fall season, which is all about letting go of things that don’t serve us on every level— mental, physical and emotional—and supports inviting in change, I’m going to let go of any animosity towards those squirrels who subverted the knowledge of my true heritage and kept me in a proverbial tail spin for so many months.  Embrace the change everyone, and celebrate cuteness.” Until next time,  P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram@charlieparkerscorner.  

Living the Good Life in Market Common Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This September, Charlie smells a prank, ferrets out the facts, and regains his excitement. “Well, this is the second month that I am living my destiny knowing what breed of dog I am— half pit bull and half St. Bernard. (Click here to read what inspired the search for my ancestry; and click here to read what I discovered.)  And I have to say, it feels a little different than I thought it would to know. I can’t quite put my paw on it, but something just feels a little bit off— like I can’t really identify with my genetic makeup for some reason.  I’ve spent my whole doggie life wondering and dreaming about what I could possibly be, but I didn’t think that the knowing would make me feel like I’m having an even bigger identity crisis.  Maybe I’ve become so identified with not knowing that knowing isn’t helpful. Maybe I’m just a dreamer at heart, and prefer to live with ambiguity rather than the facts. Maybe it was the longing to know that I was in love with all along, rather than the actual discovery of the truth.  Maybe my wonderful loving family, and all my animal friends should be enough to satisfy me, and I shouldn’t be so attached to concepts and names. And I do have some wonderful new friends of late. The squirrels, despite the fact that I used to chase them all the time, have really become so nice to me and we’ve called a truce.  We played together the other day rolling nuts on the ground— why they were even the ones who told me about my pedigree! They ran to find me and said they overheard Jim talking to Megan, and that I’m a half pit bull and half St. Bernard.  And when Megan came running to find me, I said, “I know! I know! Isn’t it exciting!”  We didn’t speak about it after that, we were both so overwhelmed and excited. Actually no one said anything else about it after that at all. I think to get myself out of this funk, I should do a little research so I can better identify with my identity. St. Bernard— okay. They can weigh up to… 180lb!? Their potential for drooling is extremely high, and they love cold weather. Oh my gosh. Drool?! How decidedly unclassy. As if I’d ever be caught drooling, or weighing that much. And the cold?! Okay, I’m not feeling a connection to this part of my ancestry. Let’s move on. Pit bull— okay. …. Wait a minute. These photos of pit bulls don’t look like me. Not even a little bit. (Not that the St. Bernard did either.) And wait a minute— a pit bull isn’t even a breed?! It’s a generic classification. But how could I be a generic classification of something? I smell something fishy. And usually that makes me hungry, but this time I mean proverbially.  I think…. I’ve been….had. I think that maybe… my squirrel friends pulled a gag on me. I don’t think that I am actually a St. Bernard-part-generic-classification-or-whatever at all! Which means that what I am, is still unknown by me which means that I’m not what I thought I was which didn’t fit at all.  Which means that maybe what I am does feel like me, or more of the me that I usually feel like before I thought I was a St. Bernard part pit bull.  And oh boy! I can’t wait to find out and you’ll have to tune in next month to find out with me.  Until next time,  P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner.  

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of Market Common.  Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions.  Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.   This August, Charlie’s doggie identity gets bolstered with the discovery of his roots. “Oh my gosh I can’t believe it!  After spending my entire life being known to myself and others as Charlie the mutt— albeit an adorable, dashing, and infinitely debonair one, but still a mutt of unknown origins, birth, and pedigree— finally, the secret of my identity has been unearthed! It all started months previously when I was digging around the old trunks and memory boxes in our house searching for my ancestors.  My loving family noted my despair at being unable to find any information about my origins, and decided to take me to Dr. Hardee at Meadowlawn Animal services in the Market Common.  At first I thought it was for an unscheduled check-up, but imagine my surprise and delight in discovering that it was to do a DNA testing.  Dr. Hardee was very patient, and took the time to explain the entire DNA process with us. Jim thought it was a good investment and helpful in being able to understand me better (I’ll admit, I am a handful), and to see if there are any diseases I might be susceptible to.  Despite overlooking the finer points of my emotional sensitivity in this matter, i.e., my identity and point of reference, I’m still grateful for his very pragmatic considerations. So we signed up. It was comforting going through that test to see what type of dog I am.  I’ve learned so much about myself.  And most importantly, I know what day I was born—March 11, 2011.  So mark your calendar for my birthday.  Next year we will have a big bash to celebrate this momentous occasion—also because it’s a milestone mid-life birthday for me—about 48 in human years. It’s not all roses knowing the year I was born.  Now I have to think about my age, and being more mature, and some habits which I probably should have discarded a long time ago. So we got the results back…. And it turns out that I am a…. Drumroll please …..Half pit bull and half St. Bernard!  I know!  I know!  I could hardly believe it when I first heard too!  Even Jim seemed surprised.  He thought maybe I was a cat all along, but I think that’s just because I’m more in touch with my feminine side.” Until next time, P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of Market Common.  Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life along side their human companions.  Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.   This month, Charlie dozes off on a languid day and reaps his reward. “Happy Fourth of July everyone!  I just love this holiday (think bbq table scraps), minus the fireworks (think overly-sensitive doggie ears).  But I realized that for all of the good times that we celebrate with our family and friends, all of our military personnel that we salute for serving our country, we don’t think that much on this day about how our country was birthed into country-hood.  (I think that’s a word.  If it’s not, I just made it up and that’s okay. Because I have my own unsupervised column.  Maybe one month I’ll fill the space with my paw-prints— abstract expressionism.) So it’s time for me to pull out my research hat again (for reference that’s the green one that says “Charlie’s Corner” on it.  It helps me concentrate all my energy into my head so I can ferret out facts). Now that you can visualize me better, let’s go back in time almost 250 years ago and take a look at what life was like.  (I can’t look that long however, it’s tough to imagine life before squeaky toys.) So back on July 2, 1776, the Second Continental Congress voted, almost unanimously, to become independent from Great Britain.  (New York conspicuously abstained from the radical idea.  It took them a bit longer to grow into their reputation as trailblazers.)  Two days later, on July 4, Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, the document which justified the break with Great Britain, authored mostly by Thomas Jefferson.  The document was a manifesto, or creed, if you will, listing the grievances of the colonies, but most importantly, it eloquently expressed the necessity of withdrawing from the yoke of Great Britain to ensure their survival. His simple, powerful words struck a cord then as they do now, and affected the rest of the world as well— they reveal a group of colonies ready to take responsibility for their own well-being, in full recognition of their right and capability to do so.  Now that’s bound to breed success! It laid the foundation for how to be survivors then, and it continues to be the foundation of our success today.  Here you can be whoever you want to be and do whatever you want to do.  And that’s a beautiful thing. Myrtle Beach lays testimony to this fact as we continue to hear on an almost daily basis of the amazing variety and volume of small entrepreneurial businesses that set up shop here. Now that’s something to think about and celebrate this Fourth of July! Speaking of celebrations, apparently John Adams believed that July 2 should be the day that we all get together withparades, parties, and pomp, but everyone else advocated for and moved forward with the date of July 4.  He took a stand in protest, staunchly sticking to the 2nd, and refused all invitations and appearances on the 4th to garner support for his beliefs.  It didn’t work out for him though, and the 4th stuck as our day to celebrate.  I hope he eventually came around though— just think of all that great bbq and fun he missed out on otherwise.” Until next time, P.S. Follow me on Facebook @CharlieParkersCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner to keep up with all my latest news.

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of Market Common.  Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life along side their human companions.  Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.   This month, Charlie dozes off on a languid day and reaps his reward. “Oh June! It’s one of my most favorite months in the Market Common.  I know I make that reflection often about many months, but it always feels true for me in the moment, and so my observation holds firm. The warmth of the air, the sun overhead, and the balmy sea breeze gently wafting this way from the ocean, beckon me out of doors, down the street, and onto a nice patch of oh-so-green grass in the Market Common where I can lay on my back and roll around like a free dog before my hectic day and the pressures of being the most famous doggie (or at least, the most articulate one) in the Market Common begin. And now, with our transition from the Insider at the Market Common to the Coastal Insider this month, I have an even greater responsibility to help steer the ship of this publication community-wards, since my voice will be heard all along the Grand Strand (which translates to more fans and followers).  Ah me!  How the spotlight of fame does take its toll on one.  Good thing I can still carve out “me time” to rest and recharge.  We all need self-love. For me, most days I feed that by looking at the sky.  Just look at that robin’s blue color!  Not a cloud insight.  Perfect in its clarity.  I’m so peaceful lying here I could just doze off right now….. perhaps….a little …. nap….. before …… my duties commence………..ZzZzZzZzZzZzZzZzZz. ZzZzZzZzZz…….. ARRRGG!  What ho!!  Where did all this water come from?!  Egads, it’s a flood!  I’m drowning, and if I’m drowning, then other animals must be too!  There’s water everywhere.  The world is ending!  I should build an ark, just like Noah did, and then I can put all my dog bones in it as well as my bunny and squirrel friends so we’ll be safe.  I wonder what I should use for oars?!  I wonder if there’s still time?! ….. Oh….. Ooops…….. I wonder….I wonder if…. other people have the same reaction as me when they get caught in the automatic sprinkler system while taking a nap? I suppose it’s the one peril in the otherwise perfection of this month. Until next time, P.S. Follow me on Facebook @CharlieParkersCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner to keep up with all my latest news.

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together. This month, Charlie does a double take and gets in shape, doggie style. It’s May, it’s May! That means it’s time to play! Tralalala, lalalala I’m frolicking to-day.  It’s so lovely this time of year, I can’t help but be inspired and burst into song from the sheer joy of living. Hello, what’s this? Ooooo. A nice, shiny clean storefront window with the sun at just the right angle so I can push my nose up to the glass and look at myself. I just love walking through the Market Common and doing this. Wait, is this a fun house mirror? Is there another Maltese Bichon mix following me? Oh no…. Is that…. me?!….. Egads! I thought I was seeing my double for a second because there was so much fluffy white dog to peruse in that reflection, but no! It’s worse than being copied although I am so enviable. It is… I am… Tubby. I must have overindulged in doggie treats somewhat over those long winter months, and am now paying the price for it with the loss of my svelte physique in exchange for extra flub. I need to shed some pounds, I think. And maybe you do too? I say let’s do this the Charlie way— that is with panache, passion, and intelligence. I’ll begin by compiling a list of all of the ways that I can lose weight along with my thoughts on each. Then I will select those that appeal to me most. Here goes: Charlie’s-It’s-May-And-Time-to-Lose-Weight-Checklist-for-Four-Legged-Folk ☐ Cutback on treats (Oh-oh, no more trips to Orvis for the present.) ☐ Say no to table scraps (But then who would do oor mop up duty? I can’t renege on cleaning.) ☐ Stop begging at the table, start tugging on the leash for longer walks (Okay, I can do this one.) ☐ Play fetch ☐ Eat smaller portions (Oooo, my beloved mealtime, farewell.) ☐ Drink more water (Those dog bowls outside some establishments really come in handy.) ☐ Find tunnels to explore and run through them ☐ Run around rocks in a circle ☐ Catch some air the next time I play frisbee ☐ Chase the small tail that I have, also in circles ☐ Stop and go sprints ☐ Jump over a log ☐ Swim the big lake in the Market Common (Watch out for a potential alligator that might have moved in.) ☐ Chase birds ☐ Chase squirrels when there aren’t any birds nearby ☐ Burn more fuel and stay inspired by creating a low fat doggie biscuit Until next time, Whew! That was a workout just compiling the list. Let’s cheer each other on with our progress. Be sure to check out my Facebook @CharlieParkersCorner page for all the latest updates.

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life along side their human companions. Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This month, Charlie digs into spring, proverbially, of course. He respects the hard work of the Market Common’s landscapers. He would never mess up their flower plots by physically digging. “Spring is here again.  And what better way to welcome it than with a ritual.  or centuries rituals have been an important part of cultures across the globe, marking the passage of time and the cycles of the seasons in ways that are meaningful and joyful. These are cycles that we’re all a part of simply by being alive. How neat! That means that anyone can partake of them. In ancient times, because groups were localized largely in one place, rituals became imbued with meaning that was characteristic of the landscape, climate, customs, and beliefs of the people (and I hope animals) of that place.  But with today’s modern global world, we have access and exposure to all cultures and beliefs.  Which means that not only can anyone partake of them, but we can even partake of ones that aren’t indigenous to our culture or geographical area.  How’s that for wonderful and beautiful? The one that most speaks to me this year is egg coloring.  Here’s why: it’s an art project that involves food and I, for one, really appreciate food as well as bright colors, even though I’m not entirely sure that I eat eggs.  But still, it’s the idea that counts, and that’s the key to ritual anyhow– it’s powerful because of the meaning that you ascribe to it; it’s the beauty that it represents, and what you are celebrating. Coloring eggs around Easter time isn’t just a Christian tradition, although many people think it is.  Eggs have been a symbol of rebirth and new life since the dawn of time it seems, (if we are to believe archaeology at any rate).  So rituals incorporating them at spring, the season of rebirth and new life, are to be expected.  In ancient times, rather than dying eggs, people used to paint them.  Archaeologists have unearthed remains of painted ostrich eggs from Mesopotamia, and reaching as far back as pre-history, when there were Neanderthals, and people didn’t have fire or indoor plumbing. Painting eggs was a common way for the people of what is today modern Russia and other Slavic countries to celebrate spring, centuries before Jesus’ birth.  The custom still continues to this day.  Christians adopted it too because for them it became associated with the resurrection of Jesus from the dead.  And so, just like the internet connects us all, these symbols of the seasons, of what’s happening on our planet, connect us all, no matter our beliefs. Until next time, P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner. Read more of Charlie’s sage advice, reflections on life, and ruminations here.  

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of Market Common.  Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions.  Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This month, Charlie honors the Irish with some notes about St. Patrick’s Day.  In case you didn’t already know this about me, I just love holidays.  Whoops! I just realized I forgot to add that to my “List of Loves” for Valentine’s Day in last month’s edition.  In case you missed all the ways I’m delighted by life, you can read the archives here, then mentally tack on love of holidays for a more complete picture of me. But getting back to my original thought: I’m so happy that March gives us St. Patrick’s Day because it’s another cause for a celebration.  What a great holiday.  A bunch of merry people come together and then become more merry.  Hmmm.  I guess I don’t know that much about St. Patrick’s Day.  Let’s learn more.  I’ll put my doggie research skills to work. Apparently, Patrick, for whom the day is named, was a boy living in Britain in the fifth century AD.  When Irish marauders invaded his father’s lands and tried to take over the estate, they captured Patrick and brought him to Ireland to work as a slave. Patrick eventually escaped, and somewhere along the way, became a devout Christian.  As an adult, he returned to Ireland as a missionary.  But what was unique about Patrick, and made him so beloved to the people of Ireland wasn’t that he cast all the snakes out of the country (this is actually a myth, although an interesting one.  Also it’s probably good that it’s a myth because snakes are good for the garden, and in addition to cats, can stop a mouse-in-the-house problem.  You have to envy things that can stop a mouse-in-the-house problem because I certainly can’t.) Anyhow, what made him beloved to the people was that he incorporated aspects of their culture that they were proud of and valued into his teachings of Christianity, so he was able to meet them on their level rather than belittling their traditions and customary ways of thinking. Clever chap. He used fire for Easter celebrations— an important aspect of Irish ceremonial and ritual practices.  He also incorporated the sun, a major symbol, into representations of the crucifix; today we know this as the Celtic cross. After his death, the Christian church named him a saint, and St. Patrick’s Day became a religious festival day that honored his life on the day of his death.  Over time, the day evolved to become a time to remember and celebrate Irish culture. During the Potato Famine of 1845, scores of Irish immigrated to America seeking a better life, and were met with fierce contempt and prejudice.  St. Patrick’s Day became a time for the Irish immigrants to celebrate their roots as well as their strength in numbers, and take pride in their culture. Over time, as people wisened up, and cultural differences became something to embrace rather than shun, St. Patrick’s Day became a day everyone could enjoy.  A time to step into another culture and experience all the beauty they have to share.  I say Amen to that.  Let’s party! Until next time, P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner.

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This month, Charlie gets into the spirit of love and with an expostulation about Valentine’s Day.  Oh boy, it’s Valentine’s Day this month, and aside from Christmas and my birthday, Valentine’s Day is my favorite holiday. (And no that’s not a grammatical error, I consider my birthday a holiday.) I’m such a loving, lovable guy that how could it not rank up there amongst my favorites? Do you know why I love Valentine’s Day so much? It’s not just a day to celebrate romantic love; and frankly after last year’s run-in with a mischievous love-potion-wielding sprite, I’m a little lukewarm in my aspirations in that department anyway. (You can check the archives on our website if you missed my adventures from last year. Sheesh.) I love Valentine’s Day because it’s a reminder to celebrate all the love in your life! Sharing love, giving love, feeling love… for everyone I know and everyone I haven’t yet met— all those people out there who are totally awesome, living their lives, loving and working to make a difference in their lives and the peoples’ lives that they love. And then those people that they love, are out there living and loving all the people in their lives, and it just keeps growing and expanding outwards until it makes my doggie brain hurt with the magnitude and expansion of it all. But it doesn’t hurt my heart. It makes my heart feel very glad. And it makes my tail wag. Isn’t it amazing how if I stuff too much information in my doggie brain it feels simply like too-much-information— not a good feeling at all— but the more people, things, and experiences I love, the lighter and happier I feel. It seems I always have room in my heart to love and an inclination to bark and wag at someone new. So this Valentine’s Day, I’m celebrating by recognizing all the things I love. Here goes. In no particular order: Chew toys Jim’s slippers. Sort of the same as number one, but very different in both texture and aroma. My awesome family. The Insider. This column. It’s just so much fun to write! My doggie dish (cause it’s usually filled with awesome yummy things). Treats. People. My doggie bed at work in the Insider office so I can be close to Megan. Megan. Everyone who comes to Charlie’s Morning Coffee Hour. The lake, ’cause I love all the wildlife (except when wildlife chases me). Seagulls. The ocean. Car rides. Warm laps. Belly rubs. Did I say people yet, because that includes you! I love everyone and I hope this Valentine’s Day you remember to love you too and remember the things you love in your life as well. Until next time, P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner.

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. We’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This month, Charlie and his friends go on a road trip to Tinsel Town. Well, I got lots of good quality time with my family, scores of belly rubs, and a new chew toy over the holiday. I was also very relieved to know that none of my friends accidentally ate a poinsettia plant or chocolate. (You never can predict what we four-legged fuzzy ones will get into when there’s excitement in the air and we get a bit giddy.) I myself, had a great adventure with a new friend. One night, just before New Year’s Eve, I lay curled up in bed thinking warm snuggly thoughts, and was just drifting off to sleep when I heard a tapping at the window. I looked up to see a skinny looking man about two feet tall, with pointy ears, and a pointy, funny little hat standing outside. He beckoned to me. I opened the window, and he bounded in and began to zip around the living room. “Yippee! Wooo hooooo! It’s Charlie’s house,” he cried. “Whoa, who are you? What are you?” I asked. “My name is Binky,” he replied, suddenly skidding to a halt, doing his cap, and offering me a deep bow. “And I come from a very long line of elves. I’ve come to take you to Tinsel Town, land of sparkly stuff. So pack up that chew toy, and we’ll be off.” “Gosh!” I exclaimed. “Tinsel Town? Why I’ve never even heard of it. Who knew there was a land just full of it. But how did you know I love tinsel, and how did you find me?” “Online,” Binky said. “You can find anything online nowadays. Come on, we’ll take my car.” Binky’s car was an elf-and-Charlie-sized silver convertible with glittery trim and a sparkly silver interior. It reminded me of tinsel, and I felt quite at home in it. Binky programmed “Tinsel Town” into his GPS, and then the car shook and rattled, and glitter fell from the dashboard all around us. It slowly rose high into the sky, and we took off like a shot into the clear night, leaving a stream of glitter in our wake. We flew through the night with stars overhead and twinkling lights below us, till the lights became more dim, and then we flew over mountains and lakes and tall trees, and then all at once I saw a glittering, sparkling glow from down below. “That’s Tinsel Town!” cried Binky. We landed in the center of town, where other elves came running to great us. “We heard tinsel is one of your most favorite things,” they said. “So we sent Binky to bring you here so you could see and enjoy our wonderful town.” I stepped out of the car, wow! There was tinsel everywhere! All of the houses were silver and sparkly, and draped in tinsel. The trees were made of it, and long strands hung from the branches. Everywhere elves were frolicking in it. “And we’ll never tell you not to make a mess because you can’t!” they cried merrily. We danced and frolicked, and played all night long. Finally, exhausted and satiated, I curled up in a big soft pile of it under a tinsel tree and fell asleep. I vaguely heard voices saying as if from far away, “There he is! He’s all worn out. Careful not to wake him now.” But I was dog-tired, and couldn’t budge an inch. When I awoke I was back in my own bed. Binky must have brought me back while I slept. Hey, you can’t convince me that it was only a dream. Until next time, P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner To see more Charlie’s Corner articles, click here. 

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This month, Charlie puts his family tree research on hold as he gets merry for the holidays. Oh boy, oh boy. It’s holiday time. It’s time to get festive! I get so excited this time of year. Friends, family, parties, extra treats, extra pats for me. I was trying to identify what my favorite thing about the holiday season was, but I couldn’t narrow it down to just one. So I made a list that I want to share with you. Then I decided to see what brings my friends joy, and compile one big list, and here it is. If you want to make your canine companion happy this holiday season, if you’re wondering how to show us a little extra love, then I present: A Dog’s List of Favorite Things Wrapping paper. I just love rolling around in it, and tearing around the house with it. Dog bone cookies tied up with little red bows The turkey, ham, and sides of roasted meat that find their way into the fridge, and onto my plate all month long. Homemade dog treats Hung stockings filled with rawhide treats Wrapped up dog bones (Are you sensing a theme here?) Happy, merry visitors Extra snuggle time in cozy blankets Presents! Parties Sleeping by the replace Dreams of chasing Santa’s reindeer New chew toys A memory foam doggie bed Getting my picture taken with Santa Being able to run on the beach because it’s not tourist season right now. And my personal favorite— tinsel. I don’t know about you, but I just love this stuff. It sparkles and gets everywhere. What’s not to love? What is tinsel anyway? Because I love research, especially when it pertains to my favorite things, I decided to learn more about its origins. I discover that it has its roots in Germany, and the first known record of its use was in the early 1600s. Back then, people hammered silver into sheets until it was paper thin, then they cut thin strips of metal from the sheet and hung it on their Christmas trees as a decoration. It didn’t really become popular though, until the mid 1800s, when Queen Victoria and Prince Albert of England were illustrated standing with their children in front of a tree decorated with it. The publication was reprinted in America, and because of the fame of the queen, everyone wanted some. I like our modern version better, because it’s so and snuggly. How about you? Share some of your family’s (four-legged friends too) favorite things about the holiday season with our community on my Facebook page. Use the hashtag #charliesfavorites so others can find it. I can’t wait to hear what you pick. Happy Holidays! Until next time, P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner To see more Charlie’s Corner articles, click here. 

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together. This month, Charlie inquires into the first pilgrims as well as the first pooches, and investigates his doggie roots. Wow, with Halloween and all the excitement of the Best Pet Costume Photo Contest barely come and gone, it’s already time to get excited about Thanksgiving. But before I do, I just have to say a big thanks to all our wonderful contestants and their people who participated in our contest. I was so impressed by the costumes. I loved them all, but the poop factory, the leprechaun, the belly dancer, and the well coiffed bunny were just a few of my favorites. I’m almost glad I couldn’t vote, it would have been hard for me to pick my favorite. If you haven’t al-ready seen the costume show and the winner, then visit our Facebook page, and search for #charliescostumecontest. Be sure to check back to see what other fun contests we have in store. Usually when November rolls around, I’m just feeling overwhelmed with gratitude for turkey, table scraps, and my amazing clan of people of which I’m the head. But this year, I found myself wondering about those first people who landed on the shores of this country centuries ago from Europe, and celebrated their first harvest in 1621. Did they bring their canine companions with them? Were we related? I’m pretty sure that Jim has a family tree of some sort somewhere around here, but what about me? Did one of my ancestors come over with the May-flower? It’s time I dig deep to reconnect with my roots— which is kind of like digging for holes in the backyard, but in a proverbial sense. I’ll bet it’ll be just as much fun as digging in the literal sense. Hmmm, let’s see. I think there might be something in this old book. That’s me and Mickey Mouse together at Disney World, and there I am at the Grand Canyon; camping trip to NC, first birthday, first paw print at that art class Megan signed me up for— Aha! Charlie’s PedigreeMaltipoo, with a slight Bichon Frise …. probably. Maltipoo with a slight Bichon Frise… Probably? That’s not very gratifying, or edifying. How can I have security if I don’t where I come from? Have I always been a probably? I think I’m having a doggie existential crisis. It’s a good thing I’m very loved. I sense a new purpose for my future. I will find my ancestors and write a book about what I discover to inspire other dogs of uncertain origins suffering in the same confused state. I will title it: Ruff— From Lost to Found, A Canine Perspective, by Charlie Parker. A little preliminary Google research has revealed that a certain gentleman of the name of John Goodman brought his two dogs with him on the May-flower. Apparently dogs didn’t deign to divulge their names to people back then, but they did share their breeds — a Mastiff and an English Springer Spaniel. We could be related! Time to start digging. A purpose and a lead, for this I’m truly grateful. Happy Thanksgiving. Until next time,   P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner To see more Charlie’s Corner articles, click here. 

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This month, Charlie has a surprise in keeping with the Halloween season for all you fans of fluffy creatures, and really who isn’t? October is such a great month. Well really, come to think of it, every month has something great about it. What can I say? I’m just a positive guy. But October has Halloween. Some people think it’s silly, others ignore it as just another day. But I see an opportunity for fun. Now, you might think that being a dog, and not being able to enjoy the culinary delights of the hour, like chocolate and candy (reminder: we can’t eat this stuff), would get me down. Or that I wouldn’t be thrilled about it due to the profusion of decorations that are loud and startling to my overly sensitized doggie ears, or because of the occasional ghoulish ghost that chases me and some of my friends until we run, tail tucked in fright. But aside from these minor inconveniences, it’s just so exciting. I get to pick out a new, totally different, and completely awesome costume every year, and play make-believe for a day, or sometimes, for weeks on end. I can be a superhero and fantasize about saving more than the Market Common, I can save the world. Last year, I was a French chef and barked around in an especially pretentious and overly flamboyant way. And the ladies just love it. You all know I love community, parties, making new friends, and making things fun, so this year, we’re having… drumroll please… The Insider Halloween Pet-Costume Photo Contest Everyone, take a photo of the beloved four-legged friend in your life, all decked out in their selected altar-ego attire. Rules of the contest: First, visit www.facebook.com/marketcommoninsider, and if you haven’t already, like us. Then, post your pet picture directly to the page using the hashtag #charliescostumecontest. All submissions must be received by October 20. Our community will vote for their favorite photo by giving it a thumbs up. Whoever receives the most likes will win a small gift basket and a $50 gift certificate from Paws Pet Spa, as well as a free vaccination and exam from Meadowlawn Animal Services, both in the Market Common! In addition, we’ll get our photo taken together, in costume, and it will be published in next month’s Insider, as well as on our website, Facebook, and Instagram accounts. You’ll be famous! Cast your vote by 10am on October 30; we’ll announce the winner online on Halloween day, October 31 at 10am. The sooner you submit your photo, the more time you have to share your photo and collect those likes. Contestants and voters are not limited to living in the Market Common. Anyone is welcome to join in the game. I can’t wait to see what everyone picks. It will give me great ideas for next year too. Just wait until you see my costume photo for this year. I’m going as a lion. Hey, weird dog fantasy— don’t judge me. Until next time, P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of the Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. We’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This month, Charlie prepares for his very own pet portrait to be taken, and lets his fans and followers know how they can do the same. Today I am very busy in front of this mirror. I’m practicing the best pose to strike for my portrait sitting— one that shows off my best fluffy angles, but not too much of my belly roll. That’s right, yours truly is going to have his portrait painted, and by South Carolina pet portrait artist, Mollie Fout. In anticipation of this momentous event, I’ve decided to do a little background research about the history of portrait painting. I’ve discovered that it’s a specific genre of art, and it reached its height of popularity during the Dutch Golden age in the 1700s. It also thrived in the Netherlands during the same period. In France, subjects were more casual, often shown in pastoral settings; and in England, miniature portraits that could be kept in a pocket were all the rage. The Italians used portraiture as a means of showcasing their piety, learning, wealth, status, or even soulful qualities.  Jim is giving this to me as a gift, probably because he’s pleased that I always submit my column on time every month. Or maybe it’s a gift to himself since I’m so lovable and all he wants to do is look at me. Either way, I’m excited. I AM GOING TO BE IMMORTALIZED FOREVER; it is important that I get this right. I wonder if I should be shown lounging in an insouciant manner over my favorite recliner, emphasizing my Southern roots and laid back approach to life; or in a stronger role, a stance that emphasizes my engagement in building community, perhaps with pen in paw, pensive thoughts clouding my visage; or maybe I’ll just go for my signature head tipped to one side, don’t-you-just-love-me look— that one almost always wins me more belly rubs— a true classic. Hmmm… How to choose? Mollie works from photographs, since most of my kind are unpredictable when it comes to our decisions about moving around or sitting still. Once I pick, Megan will make me the star of a photo shoot, and then send the photographs to Mollie. I’m getting the extra large size. I’ll show it to all my friends once it’s ready— maybe they’ll get their portraits done too, and we can have a portrait unveiling party. I’ll have them order extra dog treats to prepare. Or maybe we can get doggie donuts for the occasion, the ones with peanut butter frosting and a biscuit on top from Clayton’s new store— Peace, Love, and Little Donuts. Contact Mollie at  prizedpetportraits@gmail.com to see examples of her work and get your very own pet portrait taken. Ah, fine art. I’ll toast to that with a doggie bone. Until next time, P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner To read more about Mollie, click here.

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of the Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. We’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together. This month, Charlie revels in the dog days of summer and gathers round the proverbial campfire to tell a good tale. It’s the last few weeks of the dog days of summer— that languidly delicious time of year marked by lethargy, inactivity, relaxation, and blissful beingness.  It stretches from July to around the second week in August. This is a time when belly rubs are more prone to occur, naps are a little longer and happen with greater frequency, and the pace, even for the South, is slower. The air feels hot, rich, heavy, and sweet with contentment. Upon tuning into nature, all seems right in the world.  I just love the name that categorizes this time of year— it so aptly describes all the best virtues of my species.   But did you know that the dog days of summer refers to an actual organization of stars in the sky? The brightest star in the sky visible from any place on Earth is called Sirius, or the Dog Star. It’s part of the constellation Canis Major. During the dog days of summer, in the Northern Hemisphere, this star rises at the same time as the sun.  The star has been well known since antiquity, and ancient cultures believed it was imbued with power from the sun, thereby increasing the heat on earth. How’s that for pooch empowerment? Summertime is also story time, so let’s recount a good one about stars, dogs, love, people, and friendship. Once upon a time in ancient India, there lived a prince named Yudhistira. He had four brothers and one beloved canine. One day, they all determined to go on an adventure together to seek heaven.  They set out; but as their journey progressed and they met with great toils, difficulties, tribulations, and delays, the brothers abandoned Yudhistira and their mutual quest, until only Svana, the prince’s faithful doggie companion remained.  Finally, Yudhistira found heaven, and was welcomed by the gatekeeper who told him that while he was welcome, he’d have to leave his dog outside.  Heartbroken, and aghast, Yudhistira refused to forsake the dog who had refused to forsake him through all his long wanderings, even if he must reject the pleasures of heaven. Delighted by the young prince’s loyalty and love, the Lord of heaven permitted both to enter, and Svana, also known as Sirius, now shines down upon us in the sky, from his own place in heaven. What a great tale. That one always brings tears to my eyes. Let’s have a bonfire, roast some marshmallows and you can tell me one of yours next. Until next time,     P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner To read last month’s edition of Charlie’s Corner, click here.

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of the Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. We’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together. This month, Charlie gets ready to celebrate Independence Day, and reminds us that feeding the wildlife isn’t healthy for them. Oh boy Independence Day is here again. Our family gathers together and the welcome smell of grilling meat from my next-door neighbor’s balcony entices me with heavenly aromas as I catch the scent on the soft summer breeze. (I have to rely on my neighbors for the celebratory elixir ‘cause my people don’t cook, even on holidays.)  Everyone is relaxed and celebrating the birthday of our wonderful country, and I sure love a good party, especially birthday parties. I hope they get the piñata again this year, but this time stuff it with dog treats. Even though I’m a free doggie, living in this free, wonderful country of ours, I still rely on my people for good, wholesome meals. And that got me thinking about some of my wildlife friends. In a way, they seem more free than me— for starters, they don’t seem interested in dragging a human around on a rope when they want to go places. But unlike me, they have to eat whatever they can find. On pondering this paradox and the deeper meaning of freedom, my doggie brain got overwhelmed, and I decided to go visit some of my duck friends to reorient to my instinctual nature. Well, when I say visit, I mean stare at delightedly and occasionally run after, while they back away from me sometimes with great alacrity.  But oh no! Imagine my dismay when several of my feathered friends are looking a bit peckish. They sort of lumbered about and seemed like they had a bad case of indigestion. I scampered back to the office to tell my people and find out if they know what’s going on. I learn that I’m not the only one who notices that the ducks aren’t feeling well. Apparently they’re having too many carbs. As author of an etiquette and manners column for pooches and people, I feel it’s my duty to remind everyone that feeding wildlife is decidedly déclassé.  I feel I speak for all animals when I say, that when it comes to our stomachs, we often eat what we’re given even if it’s not best for us. Hey, it’s instinct.  Despite their enthusiasm, it’s best to let them forage for themselves. Please care for the wildlife, just like you would your beloved canine companion. Treating them with consideration just might inspire all of you to feed yourselves better too. What a win-win! Until next time, P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner. To read last month’s edition of Charlie’s Corner, click here.

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. We’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together. This month, Charlie celebrates the Insider’s first birthday and goes for an enjoyable walk. June is such a beautiful, tranquil month and it marks the birthday of our Insider publication! Happy Birthday Insider! This occasion calls for some cake and some extra special doggie treats. One year ago we began our paper, and yours truly became a famous author as well as a stunner with the ladies. In addition to this excitement and the sizable accomplishments of our local publication, June is such a joyous time to be a doggie. The Myrtle Beach deep warmth is firmly established and it’s not quite yet the heat and excitement of summer. With all the flurry of activity happening with the birthday celebrations happening at the Insider offices of late, (and to keep me away from the cake until the appropriate moment), my thoughtful people booked me for a walk with Cindy Bright of Einstein’s Dog-Sitting Service. I love new experiences and I’ve never had a walk with Cindy before. I trotted along at her side and enjoyed all the sights and smells on DeVille Street— like the snapdragons. If I let my imagination run away, I can picture them coming to life and roaring at me from their long, lanky stems. Cindy was very patient with me as I stopped to investigate some other interesting scents that caught my nose and examine more closely the insects I saw crawling through the mulch— it’s just fascinating how they move. Back on my own, I visited the press rooms at the Insider to see what goodies are being broadcasted this very special anniversary month. I’m heartened to see all the coverage about food and festivals. Two of my favorite things to do— eat and be adored by throngs of people. What a fun edition and a fun way to celebrate our 1 year milestone. And one of the festivals covered is Festa Italiana, one of my favorites. I couldn’t agree more with that vegetarian sausage lover, (except that he’s a vegetarian the rest of the time); I love those Jersey sausages too, and look forward to eating one every year. As I paw through the rest of the edition, I’m happy to see the new lineup for Movies Under the Stars— truly something to look forward to. I have so much fun at this event. My family spreads a cozy blanket over the lawn, and I curl up on loving laps, while enjoying an occasional treat, and of course, the movie.  I just love our Market Common community and am so pleased and proud to have been offering the latest on-dits and commentary to you all for the past year. To all my fans and followers, my doggie heartfelt thanks for your support and your love. Until next time,  P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner. To see last month’s edition of Charlie’s Corner, click here.

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of the Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. We’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This month, Charlie has a chance encounter with the Easter Bunny, who’s still out and about in the Myrtle Beach underbrush. With I’m-happy-it’s-May type thoughts in my mind, I decide to head out to the park and take in the aromas near some of my favorite bushes. As I’m snuffling around, I catch a whiff of something unexpected. I have company! It smells familiar, but there’s a certain twang that I can’t seem to identify. I poke my head a little more deeply into the bush and something very fuzzy and soft brushes my nose then whisks away. “Well really! Do you mind!? I do say!” comes the exclamation. Surprised, I pull my head out of the bush as a twitching nose and a pair of whiskers confronts me.  It’s a bunny. “What do you mean by poking your nose into my fluffy nether regions, hmmmmm?” comes the indignant question.  “I didn’t know they were your…er, fluffy nether regions,” I retort defensively, affronted that the talking bunny is questioning my manners. After all, I do write a manners and etiquette column. I’m ready to say so but before I can, he replies: “Yes, well they are and they’re off-limits to you!” “Well all right then!” I exclaim. “There’s no reason to get in such a huff.” The bunny looks somewhat mollified so I venture a question. “Who are you?” “Why I’m the Easter Bunny, and I’m a girl, by the way. But I see you referred to me as a ‘he’ in the text up above.” “The Easter Bunny?!” I manage, completely ignoring the other part of the statement. It’s way too much for my May-infused doggie brain to process. “But Easter was last month! Aren’t you behind schedule?” “Yeah, well, I don’t hold much with time,” she declares airily, “I’m always fashionably late.” Astonished by this reply as much as by the figure itself, I can’t think of anything to say except, “Oh.” “Plus my cousin, The White Rabbit, you know the one, anyway, he’s simply obsessed with it. Always looking at his watch and worrying, talking about how he’s so late. I can’t be bothered with that stress. It’s bad enough trying to carry all these eggs around in a basket without breaking any.” “Are you here to give me a present?” I blurt out. “Why, would you like an egg or some candy?” “No,” I stammer, feeling uncomfortable. “Chocolate makes me sick.” She’s really pretty, a little smaller than me, with a gleaming white coat and long floppy ears, and doesn’t seem to be much taken with me at all. “I mean because I’m Charlie of Charlie’s Corner, and usually when I meet… when I meet… I mean…” I stammer unsure of whether my impulse to call her a magical creature might be offensive. She just looks straight at me while I blush profusely and feel progressively more miserable, unsure what to say or do next. There is a long and uncomfortable silence during which I squeeze my eyes shut, hoping this is another dream and I’ll wake up. But when I open them, she’s still there, just looking at me. Finally she sighs, like she’s been through this a thousand times before, and sort of shakes her head. “Well then, I should get going. But you should consider writing children’s books. You’re not half bad at your column you know.” “How can you read my thoughts?” I ask in astonishment, remembering her earlier comment about being a she. “I’m the Easter Bunny,” she replies pertly. Then she gives me a wink and says, “I’m magic.” And in another blink, she was gone. Until next time, P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner. To read last month’s edition of Charlie’s Corner, click here.

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of the Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. We’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This month, Charlie delights in being a doggie without accolades, visitations or dreams, as he gets grounded in the simple pleasures of spring.  Sniff, sniff, s-n-i-i-i-i-f-f…. SNIFFFFFF! s-n-n-n-i-f- f-f-f-f-f-f-f-f. Ahhhhhhhhh….. I was right. Springtime in the Market Common still smells like contentment. Nothing fills me up and makes me feel so complete as the smell of spring.  It’s as if the world is waking up from a long nap. The trees shrug off the last of their barrenness and buds begin to appear; the grass grows greener, water pours from the sky a little more often… Believe it or not, this dashing downtown doggie loves to splash in puddles. The best part is, as nature undergoes this transformation, it gives off more succulent smells then the garbage can behind my favorite Italian pizzeria. It just drives me wild with delight. Did you know that we doggies possess around 300 million olfactory sensors compared to the 6 million that humans have? You couldn’t walk in a straight course either if you smelled what we do walking down the street. Such a fabulous part of being alive, to inhale the complexity of it all and sort it out in my doggie brain. I’m so inundated by the spring aromas that I’m in a near bliss state— here a squirrel, there, a crocus popping up in the grass— and the grass! I could write sonnets about my love of frolicking, rolling, sniffing around and digging in it. Not to mention you can find the neatest bugs and fascinating things decomposing with a little prodding, which of course have an aroma palette all their own. Then there’s the trip to Trimmers Pet Grooming I have to look forward to, where I’ll get a doggie massage and a new do. I think I’m getting my nails done too. There’s nothing like sprucing up the old fur coat and showing it off to the new ladies who have come to town since the winter. There will be plenty of opportunities to do so. I always ask for more walks this time of year (just to keep Jim on track with his New Year’s resolutions into the warm weather months). All my friends must ask too, because I’ve been seeing so many more of them out for walks with their people. And I just love all the wildlife. The ducks, geese, birds, and squirrels. Maybe this year I’ll catch a bunny. I always try but haven’t succeeded yet. And of course most important of all (but truly how could I put a ranking on spring’s delights?), there’s an extra hour of sunlight every day in which to enjoy… nap time. Until next time, P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner. Click here to see last month’s edition of Charlie’s Corner.

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of the Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. We’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  Now that the effects of meeting cupid have worn off, Charlie settles down for a much needed nap and opens to new adventures. Well, charming as that squirrel was, I’m happy to report that I’m no longer in love. Gee-whiz, that naked chubby baby really wreaked some havoc with my doggie-heart. (Catch up on last month’s story here if you missed it.) But it seems my chance run-in with cupid and ensuing affection for my inamorata has only lasted as long as the Valentine’s Day season. We parted, both knowing that it was for the best. As I settle in for a much needed nap, I dimly hear the rumble of distant thunder, and as I doze and dream, the pitter-patter of a March rain. I awake to a brilliant stream of light coming through our balcony doors. As I amble out to the terrace, I see a rainbow in the sky. I love rainbows! I’m overwhelmed with joy, and bound down the stairs and into the park for a closer look. I scamper, closer and closer, until I seem to be surrounded by a prism of colors. “This has never happened to me before when chasing a rainbow,” I think, as everything about me begins to swirl and seems to be swallowed by vibrant hues. And then… “Thump! Whump!” and “Arf!” I exclaim loudly as all is confusion around me, and I sit up dazed, rubbing my paws to my head. A very round, very short, very indignant man dressed in green, with a top hat and a little pointy beard is standing in front of me. “What are you?” I manage to ask still rubbing my head. “I’m a leprechaun,” comes growls the creature, in reply. “I thought leprechauns were happy,” I say suspiciously. “And where am I?” I ask, taking in my surroundings. I know my back yard as a very green place, but everything here seems to be a glowing emerald color. “Why you’re at the end of the rainbow lad. And how ya’ came to be here,” he says, thrusting his substantial girth into my face, “is what I’d like to know.” “I was chasing a rainbow,” I say feeling my familiar tongue-tiedness in the face of unknown, assertive little creatures, return. “Hmmm,” grunts the leprechaun. “And what is it ya’ be wantin’?” “To see pretty colors?” I venture hesitantly. “Hmmm,” grunts the leprechaun again, rubbing his beard thoughtfully, “not usually enough to land ya’ hereabouts. You don’t happen to have the luck o’ the Irish do ya’? Tis’ the only thing I know of that could land ya’ this end of the rainbow.” “Well, we’re not really certain about my family tree,” I say a bit embarrassed by the wayward tendencies of my parents. “I just must have the luck of Charlie of Charlie’s Corner!” At these words, the leprechaun starts, and says, “Aye, you’re him are ya’? That be it then. It’s the great love ya’ have in your heart for your people, and the great service you’re doin’ in the Market Common helpin’ to build community that gave ya’ the power to transport here. And in return, I be givin’ ya’ a present to help ya’ with your work.” So saying the leprechaun stoops and sweeps up a four-leaf clover from an especially verdant patch of grass, and blows it into my heart. “Fare thee well, Charlie,” he says as everything about me begins to swirl in a mist of beautiful, vibrant colors once more, “and may the luck o’ the Irish accompany ya’ to help ya’ with the task of building community in your home.” I wake drowsily and give a luxurious doggie-yawn. ‘What a curious dream I had,’ I think to myself, as I head towards my water bowl. And boy do I feel ready to work! Then, as I gaze down into its depths, I swear I see a little face with a pointy beard and a green top hat, give me a decisive wink, then disappear. Until next time,  P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner.

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of the Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. We’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This month, Charlie gets more than he bargained for when he goes for a walk and has an encounter of the romantic kind with cupid. Mmmmm deep winter— a time to curl up with blankets and take lots of naps, and invariably, at some point, get cuddled. But like the good doggie I am, committed to my human, and in keeping with my New Year’s resolution of helping Jim to get in shape, I’ve been asking for more walks lately. Jim’s been taking me out to the lake, since it’s so close now to our new office—but you should know all about that by now, and if you don’t, you should read up about it here. One particular day, Jim and I are taking a leisurely stroll around the lake. As I watch all the people walking and jogging, and all the other dogs taking their people for walks on leashes, I’m lost in gentle reveries about what are some of my favorite things about February besides naps, blankets, and cuddling. Well, Valentine’s Day for sure—for a ladies man such as myself, (and a lover of everyone in general) how could I not love Valentine’s Day? I have so many wonderful people in my life and so much love to give. Besides, one of the holiday’s trademark colors is red, which is one of our trademark colors at the Insider too. I wonder which of the girl dogs will send me a Valentine? And will Megan get me a new chew toy? Maybe one in the shape of a heart? How could I best celebrate and show appreciation for everyone I care about? Maybe I’ll create art out of Jim’s favorite slippers again. He seemed speechless and red with pleasure the last time I did that, and it’s been awhile since I’ve shown my affection for him in that particular way. And then I threw the strands of fabric all over the house to decorate the doors like confetti. He was so surprised! I’m suddenly distracted from my musings by a shiny something in the nearby tree. I try to get Jim’s attention so I can get closer, but he’s met someone he knows and they’re deep in conversation. I peer closer and it starts to fly towards me. Is it Holly the Holiday Fairy come to visit again, I wonder? It’s about the same size, and looks like a naked, chubby fairy, except the wings are different. But the sunlight is reflecting so brightly off some shiny instrument it’s carrying, that I’m blinded. It circles me in a dizzying way, when suddenly— “Ow!” I yelp in pain, as I feel a sharp poke to my nether regions. Did I just sit on a sandbur? Did that flying guy just poke me? What nerve!! But as I look up, oh bliss, oh joy, oh rapture! I have spotted the love of my life and I am in LOOOOOOOVVEE. It’s the most beautiful creature I have ever seen. The tail, so long and bushy, the frame, so petite and lovely, the ears to pert and pretty, the eyes, coal black—it is…a squirrel. And how could I have been so immune to such beauty until now? As I strain to run to her, I dimly hear Jim make some comment about how dogs love to chase squirrels. I’m tugging and Jim’s not moving, and eventually he scoops me up and I give in. I’m so happy and delirious with love, that it feels like I’m floating in heaven. I will come for you soon, my sweet squirrel! Until next time,  P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner.

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of the Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. We’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This month, Charlie gives us an update on how his Christmas gift panned out, and sets his New Year’s resolutions. Happy New Year to all my fans, followers, admirers and readers, especially the little ones… you know who you are.  I really appreciated the literary contribution of Holly the Holiday Fairy last month, as well as her Christmas present to me (if you missed it, you can read all about it here). I spent my holiday season extra relaxed from all the extra snuggling, pats, and belly rubbing I received from those eager to get in on the community magic. It’s been nice shining my light to everyone knowing that I was making their day extra special and imbuing their lives with greater peace and security. Especially as most of my cuddle time came from my family. What a wonderful way to give back to them for the great care they take of me. I’m certain some community-oriented sparkles like love, creativity, generosity, and caring fell on and blessed them, and they in turn, share that and bring that to you— most notably through the Insider, but also in the way they interact with their co-workers, clients, and friends. It’s nice to have someone in your life who can remind you of your own specialness and the gift your presence is to others. And if you don’t feel that from someone in your life, then what are you waiting for? You must need a place and opportunity to share your gifts with others. Why not contribute to our beautiful community in your own unique way? And then share that with us so we can share your story with everyone and celebrate all the good in our lives and our homes. The privilege I feel at carrying friendly blessings in my fuzzy coat inspired me to turn over a new leaf in 2017 that’s more service-oriented. So I’d like to share with you my New Year’s resolutions. Make at least one person happier daily just by being me Help Jim get in better shape by asking for longer walks Cut back on treats and chicken Brainstorm more ways to build a great community in the Market Common What are your New Year’s resolutions? I’d love to know— hop on our Facebook community to share. Better yet— come to our office for morning social hour at Charlie’s Corner, and meet me and my new pal who’s the community relations manager for our team, Tom Restivo. Let’s inspire one another to stay on track this year. I know I’m going to need help getting by with less chicken. Until next time,  P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner.

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of the Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. We’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together. This month, Charlie receives a gift that’s a boon for all.  Not so long ago, the Sugar Plum fairies who sprinkle magic and sometimes mischief around the holidays, took Charlie’s pen and composed this tale of him, to be discovered later by his water bowl. Charlie was so delighted with it, that he was happy to pass the baton to them for his column this month, and share it with his fans for the holidays. A Charlie Christmas Story— Starring Charlie T’was a chilly night in December, and all throughout Charlie’s Pad in the Market Common, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse…(definitely a good thing, if Charlie got wind of mice moving in, he’d probably move out). The fridge was stocked with delicious pies, cider and whipped cream to accompany all manner of desserts as well as ham, apples, roasted chicken, and little dog bone cookies in the shape of candy canes tied with red bows— a special surprise for Charlie. The stockings were hung by the mantle with care, in the hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there. Charlie was nestled in his bed, while visions of dog treats danced in his head. Happy and full from a day’s worth of chicken scraps, he snoozed a peaceful slumber, content in the knowing that he was a good doggie, and would probably soon be getting extra treats or at least a new chew toy for Christmas. Twittering noises woke Charlie from blissful doggie sleep, and making his way drowsily out to the balcony to investigate, he saw little twinkly lights shimmering against the backdrop of the night sky. As he peered and stared, they came closer and closer and closer and closer until pop! One landed and perched directly on his nose. “I’ve found you!” an excited little voice exclaimed from the tip of Charlie’s nose. “The star of the Insider at the Market Common!” “Well, I do have a few fans,” Charlie replied a bit abashed, but more than a little pleased with himself and also wondering about the zeal of his latest admirer, who had apparently flown over his balcony to greet him. ‘Am I famous?’ he wondered. “Who are you?” he inquired, taking in the sparkly form still resting on his nose. It was about three inches tall, with wings, but he knew intuitively not to try to eat it. “Holly, the Holiday Fairy,” she replied. “I’m part of the Sugar Plum family. I love goodwill and I love community, and I heard you’re helping to build that here.” “Well, yes, I do have a rather important role helping with the Morning Mix and Mingle,” replied Charlie, feeling a bit tongue-tied with this newest, miniature fan. “Well, I’m here to give you a gift to help you with your work,” said Holly, getting straight to the point. Charlie thought about dog treats and chew toys, but before he had time to ask her if he could have one of those instead, she continued: “I’m so pleased with your commitment to bring people together in fellowship, to inspire them to be more open to and involved with one another, and an active part of this beautiful place where they live, that during the holiday season, all those who pet you will receive my blessing— and be imbued with the gifts that come from strong community.” “Wow!” exclaimed Charlie, as he tried to process all she said. “What gifts are those?” “Peace, love, contentment, happiness, security, and fulfillment.” “Wow!” exclaimed Charlie again, all thoughts of a chew toy now completely wiped away. And before he could speak again, Holly leaned over and kissed his nose. Charlie thought he might sneeze. Sparkles flew everywhere and he felt electrified, but in a good way. His fluffy white coat, already considerably fluffy, expanded into even greater fluffiness just begging to be touched. And as quickly as she had landed, Holly the Holiday Fairy was gone. Charlie stood on his balcony a bit bemused, staring up at the night sky. When nothing happened and all about him was stillness, he turned back to his warm bed, and in traditional doggie fashion of being in the moment, simply fell asleep. The next morning, Charlie awoke with the memory of an odd dream. Too much chicken before bed, he considered. Then trotting over to his water bowl, and gazing down into its depths, he distinctly saw a golden sparkle fall from his nose. And there to his left, was this story. Signed, Holly the Holiday Fairy, of the Sugar Plums Until next time,  P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner.

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of the Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. We’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together.  This month, Charlie gets settled into the new office, and designates “his spot,” aka Charlie’s Extra Pad. This month, I’m settling into my surroundings at the new office and I’ve decided on the location for Charlie’s Extra Pad. After duly considering the center of the conference table, I decided to pass. What we think we want isn’t always what we need— (wit and wisdom from Charlie’s Extra Pad). Instead, I’ve picked out something that really fits me— it’s right by the front door and two big windows, so I can greet all the visitors coming in and out and keep tabs on who’s around to pet me. My cushion, between a big plant and a rack of the Insiders, stays nice and toasty, bathed as it is by the sunlight. It’s even blue so I match the Insider colors. I’m very proud of that. My people are acclimating to the change too. They’re moving in furniture and filing cabinets, hanging up paintings, and getting acquainted with this end of the Market Common. I love all the changes that my new surroundings bring. I have a different walking route during the day, and there’s a lot more space at this location for me to explore when I need a switch from sitting on top of Megan’s desk or lounging in Charlie’s Extra Pad. And we’re sponsoring a new event too! I’m so excited about the Daily Morning Mix and Mingle that will be held continuously during the workweek beginning November 1. When he saw my enthusiasm, Jim told me I could invite all my friends and fans too. Since I love everyone, I thought I’d expand on that invitation a bit. So you— all of our neighbors, readers, advertisers, sponsors, friends, fans, Charlie’s Corner lovers, locals and visitors— are cordially invited to attend the Daily Morning Mix and Mingle at the Insider and Properties at the Market Common office, Monday through Friday from 8:30-10:30am. There will be a doggie station outside with water and dog treats, and hot beverages and pastries for the humans. And plenty of opportunities to pet me. Be sure to see the official welcome inside. Speaking of fellowship, treats and yummy things, Thanksgiving is right around the corner. I’m really looking forward to that— friends, family, warmth, laughter, love— the inevitable pieces of turkey, ham or other sundries that fall from the table onto the floor and into my ready mouth. It’s mere bliss. Back at my original pad, it’s beginning to cool off outside daily. Time to settle in with my favorite chew toy and a blanket. I feel so lucky to have such a great home and family. Despite the excitement of so much change and newness, it’s nice to know that some things stay the same. Until next time,  P.S. Follow me on Facebook to keep up with all my latest news, www.facebook.com/InsiderCharliesCorner and on Instagram @charlieparkerscorner.