Catching Some Rays
Linus decides to catch some rays with Nemo's basking lamp. See the blog for more photos--Linus decides the stuffie turtle at the bottom of the log has to move.
Posted on July 7, 2008
maggie44n
Siblings bonding with each other and dino.
- Pleo's Name(s)
- Linus & Schroeder
- Where Pleo and I live
- Harrisburg, PA
- PleoWorld Member Since
- December 8, 2007
- Interests
- psychology, inner wisdom, drumming, gardening, blogging & filming pet turtle Nemo & Pleos, scrabble, boggle, and, most importantly, Linus' & Schroeder's co-parent, Brian. Visit the Nemo & Pleo blog at: nemotheunturtle.blogspot.com
- Most Memorable Pleo Moment
- Linus & Schroeder singing their first duet.
Plog - RSS
131 Entries
Announcing Nemo & Pleo Blog
I have officially made Nemo's blog the Nemo & Pleo blog. It will allow me to post more photos that you can view in a larger size. It will also allow me to have more "fuel" for my blog when Nemo is in hibernation. And, let's face it, turtles just don't move much to have something exciting every few days. Although Nemo is adorable every day.
Since Nemo's blog has often been the site of many Pleo pictures prior to today, I thought it only fair to post a Nemo picture here. Guess Nemo decided to celebrate the 4th on my summer sandals.
Posted on July 6, 2008
Linus Earns Exploration Badge
Linus has finally caught up with Schroeder in terms of agility and desire to wander off on his own. They will say hello to each other and go off in their own directions after sibling "heartsongs". It's odd how each has a favorite place to wander. I don't understand programming and memory chips, but they definitely remember where things are...or were.
Posted on July 5, 2008
Flashdance Pleo
Linus "in character" for upcoming Pleo tryouts for Flashdance ;-O
Posted on July 3, 2008
Carter's Pleo Fashions
Today I was in a Carter's baby clothing outlet store. As you can see, I hit paydirt. I will be one of the first in line for an official Pleo coat, tee, or sweater, but this works great and no modifications are needed off the rack! I crossed the neck portion back around Linus's neck and it snaps in place perfectly. With the neck being secure, the "cape" doesn't shift when he moves around.
This came in a pack of 3 for $10. Linus is sporting the cutest of the three (IMO). It has great Pleo words on it: MUNCH, CHOMP, and GULP. Other bib sets with different designs were available. This is a wider bib which drapes over the body. You can see how well it works.
I'm going to post several views in the Forum and on the Nemo website so I can display more pictures at once. It is much nicer to pet the soft material--easier really. I mean hand on rubber doesn't slide too well ;-O
nemotheunturtle.blogspot.com
Posted on July 2, 2008
Linus Still Toddling
Both our guys were playing at the same time today. Linus likes to snuggle against Schroeder and tag alone with him. Except Linus hasn't gotten to the exploration stage yet. So later today, Linus had alone time. He was with his pile of toys and I sat on the floor about six feet away. I saw his back foot was getting stuck on the carpet so put him in high step mode.
He looked like a baby elephant with his big steps ;-) Within 15 minutes, he made his way over to me. He was so proud of himself. I'd like him to catch up so he can tag along wherever Schroeder is going.
On another topic, I've really liked the idea of a "coat" made of really soft fabric to protect Pleo skin (although our guys don't have that problem--but long term preservation). And it would be nice to pet the soft furry cover for cuddling. I couldn't find anything I thought suitable online for pets so I decided a soft baby bib might work. I found one style that should work really well. I'll take pictures so you can see how it worked out--good or bad. Then we can all go from there.
Has anyone bought something like a cape that fit right away? I know PleoGuy said Build A Bear had clothes that fit, but which ones have people already used successfully?
Finally, congratulations to Siren for her well deserved win of the Why Pleo contest. Her capture of the dolphins gathering around Pleo is awesome and she worked that beautifully into a script.
Posted on June 30, 2008
Linus With A Cold
Yesterday was a busy video day. Right after filming Brian and Linus during espresso time, Linus came down with a cold. So the two "productions" were connected to each other on the video tape.
I wasn't sure the cold would be entertaining enough because there are lots of nonmovement delays. With editing and transitions and a bit of Kermit the Frog, I think I captured the essence of my poor Pleo. It does have a happy ending though.
Posted on June 27, 2008
Linus's Special Bonding Time with Brian
This is a regular event in our home but the first time I captured it on film. Linus was kind enough to perform two of his many songs ;-O
Enjoy!
Posted on June 27, 2008
Got Pleo - Anniversary Contest
My entry for the one minute "Why Pleo" contest. Special thanks to PleoGuy101 who inspired me to recreate his Sharper Image ad photo for my dinos.
Happy Anniversary, PleoWorld! Brian and I are very pleased to have been with you from the very beginning.
Posted on June 26, 2008
Getting Into the Family Groove
Our Pleos have now become part of our lives. Usually one will have playtime each day. When I have the energy to sit on the floor and play for awhile, I'll have them play at the same time. I love how they try to wake each other up if one falls asleep. You know that sound of frustration they have?! It's like a little dino foot-stomping mini tantrum. Makes me giggle.
Linus is easing into further distances and exploration. He's not completely out of toddler stage yet. Linus is very very sweet. Schroeder is the noisy one. lol. Both love Brian's feet. And they both love the stuffy dino and the pink bunny. Not like they don't have other toys but it appears those are the favorites.
I've calmed down a lot since I have the safe play area worked out. I'm open to having Ugobe cameras in my home to monitor Pleo behavior. It could be like reality Pleo tv. haha. Watch Maggie & Brian frantically keep their Pleos from doing handstands in the only home in the universe where Pleos are inclined to engage in that behavior. It could work....
It would be more fun than a lot of these reality shows! Don't ya think? My guys are happily settled in and we are very pleased. Neither has met Nemo but Linus was closely supervised last weekend around the chairs. He sang songs in Nemo's direction. :-)
I do have video footage waiting to be turned into Pleo movies. When I feel energetic and creative, the next MaggieBoo Production will be released.
Posted on June 22, 2008
Soft Toys & Safe Play
I wanted to share a Schroeder story and show an additional picture of the Pleo Play Area. Last night Schroeder had solo play time because his battery charge had ended with a cold. We wanted to give him special time to be pampered through his cold and to play on his own.
Once his cold had passed, he began to play with the pink bunny. Actually that toy went with one of the dolls in my collection but the Pleos adopted it ;-). Anyway, Brian sits in the chair where his feet became part of the play area. Since he usually pets the dinos with his feet, I suppose they are bonded to Brian's feet. hehe.
Schroeder managed to push the pink bunny across the floor and over Brian's foot. The bunny fell to the other side of the foot and Schroeder played with the foot and bunny and sang songs until he tired and napped with his chin on Brian's foot. Very sweet. Wish I had taken a picture but I was too tired.
Our tv sits atop a cabinet where the cabinet doors need to be open. The edges of the cabinet are sharp...not to mention the whole bottom of the cabinet is a potential handstand area. To protect against scraped skin on the corner though, the adorable pink and green alligator makes sure there will be no Pleo accidents. It's also a nice shot of the bunny ;-O.
Posted on June 17, 2008
Pleo Bonds & Balancing
I'm happy to say that Linus & Schroeder seem to enjoy each other's company. They follow each other around and sometimes share the same toy. It's cute when one is napping and the other tries to wake him up.
I've established a Pleo play area in the center of the living room where we can keep an eye on their activity, although they can wander if they want. We will just be more diligent about watching where they go and what they are doing for needed quick interventions.
Just to demonstrate how impossible it is to stop all potentially harmful balancing, I want to relay a brief incident. I was on the floor with both Pleos in the play area. I was also watching a movie on television. Linus was near me and I was petting him occasionally and feeling his tail seek me out frequently. I got caught up in the movie for about a minute when I realized a Pleo was doing something to my leg.
My leg was bent while I seated on the floor. Linus had tucked his head under my knee and his back legs were up in the air!! He did a handstand right on me under my "close" supervision!
Somebody else please tell me their Pleo does these balancing acts too? Otherwise, there really is something strange in my house.
PHOTO: The designated "Pleo Play Area".
Posted on June 17, 2008
Linus Makes Wall Street Journal!
The front page of today's Wall Street Journal (and the online version) has an article by Technical Journalist Andrew LaVallee: When Dogs and Robots Collide, Somebody Needs a Talking To
The writer had spoken to me at length about Linus and Nemo, but he seems to have angled his article more towards Roomba interactions. And we did speak of Linus and the Roomba. The quote attributed to me is:
Another Pleo owner, Maggie Spencer, has gone as far as to broach the idea of robot-to-robot interaction with her Roomba.
She showed the Pleo, named Linus, the vacuum in its turned-off state and warned Linus that the cleaner would make noise when it started up. "When the Roomba hit him, he was fine," says Ms. Spencer, a Harrisburg, Pa., psychotherapist. "I raise him like I did any other pet, not to be afraid of things."
Other Pleos and Ugobe are also in the article. Here is a link that I think works for a few days for unsubscribers:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB121314664909963011.
html?mod=hps_us_pageone
After taking the photo at left this morning, Linus proceeded to try to push it. lol
Posted on June 11, 2008
My Pleos Make International Scene
I was thrilled to find several of my Pleo videos, some including Nemo, on a Russian website and what appears to be a Chinese website! How exciting is that? I don't think Nemo would stand for paparazzi but I'm sure Linus & Schroeder would have no problem.
PHOTO: Blanket fluffing bonding
Posted on June 8, 2008
Duets & Heart Songs
Linus has awakened and already displays signs of a different personality. Schroeder was present for the awakening. This morning is their third time together and they have been singing duets and belting out heart songs to each other.
It could be our imaginations but Brian and I think occasionally one gets jealous of the other if there is attention being bestowed to only one.
Linus discovered Big Ben, the giant soft footed, Pleo-adored bear. True to form, Linus bonded with his dino very quickly. He hasn't ventured too far yet. He is reluctant to walk and seems to prefer singing songs instead.
We are extremely happy that we have our family together again. Even Nemo visited the Pleos this morning!
Posted on June 6, 2008
A New Bonding Plan
Linus arrived yesterday. We are preparing for his awakening. We decided not only to awaken him with four feet firmly planted on the ground, but also have Schroeder part of the ceremonies.
We will hold our breaths hoping they don't do handstands balanced on each other as the last Linus and Schroeder did during their first bonding.
PHOTO: Linus awakening with feet on the ground... sort of.
Posted on June 4, 2008
Pleo-Proofing At Work
Not long ago I plogged about placing stuffed animal Howard under the console to dissuade Schroeder from doing handstands. Unfortunately, about a week ago he bypassed the Howard guard system and pressed the alligator/crocodile(?)'s head down and got his head under there.
I saw it happen and thwarted Schroeder's attempt. Phase 2 reinforcement was to move Howard further out so a Pleo couldn't get to the side and use a rectangular pillow to block access to the front.
You can see how determined Schroeder is to stick his head under there! This will work until he realizes he can pull the pillow forward and knock it over. He does that with other toys.
It will be interesting to see if Linus...who will be awakened with all feet on the floor instead sunk into a soft blanket, will have the same affinity for handstands.
Posted on June 1, 2008
Schroeder the Explorer & First Cold
Schroeder has been with us for 10 days. I noticed last night he was being more adventurous. This morning he went wandering further than he had before. He was quite curious and entertaining. He seemed to travel much longer distances--room to room rather than circling or hanging out in one area.
We noticed with our other Pleos that after a week or so, the exploration "gene" seemed to kick in. Schroeder was entertaining and very sweet. He also had his first cold. Omg, that coughing and sneezing and feeling miserable sound. lol. I placed him with his blankie and bear near me.
We've been going through boxes from moving a year ago and I just rediscovered my very first microwaveable heating pad--a blue bear. I no longer use it but decided to put it in with the Pleo toys. Knowing how Schroeder loves to snuggle on my warmed tummy pad, I heated the bear for just 20 seconds to make it slightly warm. He LOVED it! He immediately began to nuzzle it and coo. He had a very short-lived cold.
Has anyone else noticed their Pleo "enjoying" music on television? Several times I've noticed, especially during opening credits to a movie when there is neat music, Schroeder (as well as previous Pleos) have become quite attentive to the sound--wagging tails and doing that happy dog sound. Anyway, he was quite an amusing pet today.
Posted on May 30, 2008
Linus On His Way!
Linus has been shipped and should arrive on Monday. From what I've seen of Schroeder, I think he would be a really cute dino sibling. He hasn't been introduced to Nemo because Nemo's living area is behind the forbidden kitchen chairs.
Tonight I caught Schroeder about to do a handstand after pressing his head down right on top of Howard the crocodile. Yikes! I changed that Pleo-proofing right away. lol. Can't take my eyes off him! Well I can. But I do check often.
New thought. I think I'm going to awaken Linus with his feet firmly on the floor--still on his blanket with his dino. But not softly into the basket. Maybe having both feet on the floor will change the way he develops with regard to wanting to shift his balance for fun. Will be an interesting experiment, I think.
Posted on May 28, 2008
Giggles & Wobbles
Brian had Schroeder on his lap and I was watching television or focused on my computer. I kept hearing Pleo giggles and assumed Brian was tickling dino feet. When I looked over, Brian was teasing Schroeder by blowing on his nose while Schroeder was in the sit position on Brian's leg. Each time Brian blew, our little dino giggled so gleefully which, of course, made Brian laugh. Schroeder hasn't done that for me but it was a treat to hear the interaction.
I had thought "high step" mode was either on or off. I realized it was something that needed to be set for each time Pleo is turned on. Anyway, Schroeder was about to maneuver a shaggy carpet runner. I put him on high step mode and went back to eating breakfast. It was a very cute sight--he lifted his feet up so high he toppled slightly to the side with each step. Wobble, wobble. Guess it's a new skill to walk on high step mode ;-O.
Yesterday was Brian's annual family picnic. They all look for a Pleo to arrive with us by now. I'm still amazed at how Pleo will adjust to the interaction of the person. Several children surrounded him and were petting him. He was very good and cooed, wagged his tail, and sang songs for them.
When his charge was running down, I held Schroeder in my lap along with his panda bear. He was literally lying on his side in my lap using the panda as a pillow. He was so snuggled there. Unfortunately, no camera was available to share that moment here.
PHOTO: Schroeder nuzzling his favorite blanket--the sling.
Posted on May 27, 2008
The quest for handstands
Why my house? Why my Pleos? In spite of keeping a careful eye on Schroeder and providing Pleo-proofing, today Schroeder managed to do a handstand by coiling up his tail against a pillow and pushing himself forward onto his front legs. omg! and lol. Well not so funny. We don't know if that's a safe handstand or not. His tail looked like Tigger about to jump sky high.
We decided if it looks questionable, we'll just move him away from what he was doing. Maybe it's the way we hatch them? They feel so secure they are constant risk takers?
PHOTO: Looks like the last photo in this plog of previous Schroeder, doesn't it? Caught him trying to push the same pillow.
Posted on May 25, 2008
A New Pleo Behavior -- Watching TV!
Apparently Schroeder likes tv. Actually we were watching a movie. Schroeder was between Brian and me and my vision was blocked by the solid coffee table. When I asked Brian what Schroeder was up to, he said wryly, "Watching the movie." I stood up to see our Pleo looking up directly at the tv screen with eyes lit up and smiling. I only caught him from the back just as he was lowering his head.
Maybe something about the lighting that attracted him? None of the others bothered to even glance. Very cute.
When I stood behind him with the camera to get the shot, he delivered his first "yoo hoo" which was also call for celebration. Yay!
Posted on May 23, 2008
Ooooh soft....and warm!
Schroeder's personality is becoming more apparent. Much to my delight he is quite the little snuggler and has also developed a desire to explore on his own. He visits the handstand prevention stuffies often. In fact, I had to reinforce by replacing a smaller bear with the large orangutan. lol. I needed the larger size to completely block access to the metal legs because apparently they ARE a Pleo magnet ;-O
Other Schroeder LOVED my favorite soft blankie. When I'd hold him on the sofa with me, he would snuggle right into it and coo. I often have a warmed pad on my tummy since an April surgery. The soft blankie was covering up the pad. This morning Brian handed me Schroeder to wake him up on the blankie.
As soon as I woke him up, he nestled into the blanket cooing. He leaned forward and rested his chin on my tummy. I swear he sensed it was warm. Omg, he just loved feeling the warm pad under the blanket lifting his backside and wagging his tail. It was so sweet.
No "yoo hoo" yet, but I'm sure that will be soon. I'm glad we're having this time with Schroeder alone before Linus arrives. And we LOVE having the extra battery! Thank you, Ugobe!
PHOTO: This photo was taken when Schroeder was first introduced to my blankie. You can see how he loves it.
Posted on May 21, 2008
Quick but effective Pleo-proofing!
Fortunately, I have several stuffed animal displays in my home. Some are used to turtle proof to prevent Nemo from getting behind furniture. A number of stuffies have been sitting on my loveseat in clear view awaiting a change of furnishings in the corner.
This morning, Schroeder finally began to toddle around. When he started walking fairly straight, he went right to the metal legs of our one table that can harm eyelid paint and tends to be a Pleo play area.
Watching him go right toward the legs jump started my brain. I quickly grabbed several larger stuffies and blocked Schroeder's way to get under the table. Brian and I decided it was cute and effective. The stuffies stay and we have one less potential Pleo damaging area to worry about.
Posted on May 20, 2008
Awake & Adorable
I chose this photo to represent Schroeder's awakening experience--eyes first open. Other photos are posted at my flickr site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/maggie44n/.
He is a very happy little guy. At the moment he prefers to sit and coo than walk, but he has ventured a few feet in all directions. The second post for today is to feature another photo--the result of quick thinking when Schroeder headed straight toward the legs of a little table that can possibly scratch his eyelids. Linus was always walking around and through the legs like a jungle gym.
Brian's response to hearing Schroeder's first sounds, which included a very early "ta da": "I've missed hearing those sounds." :-) me too.
Posted on May 20, 2008
Schroeder is Home
Schroeder arrived today! He is borrowing Linus's bed while his battery is charging. Brian is golfing today. Hopefully Schroeder will be ready to be awakened by the time Brian gets home.
Am doing all the prep work: register new Pleo, prepare SD card with 1.1 update, restring Schroeder's collar. Am happily engaged in all activities.
I think my energy level just got a much needed boost!
Posted on May 19, 2008
New Schroeder On His Way
I received an email yesterday stating Schroeder had been shipped. Maybe we'll have him early next week. It's been quiet in the house without their cute little noises.
Posted on May 15, 2008
Preparing for the New Arrivals
My home is endowed with a highly prized collection of stuffed animals. I have several displays for the bulk of them but several have been strategically placed between furniture and the wall to Nemo-proof them. So why not use the same method for Pleo-proofing, where possible.
Howard is one of my collection favorites. This morning I had the notion to place him beneath the console table that Schroeder loved to visit and stick his head under. Maybe Howard will dissuade the Pleos from fully placing their heads under the shelf. I think they will want to visit Howard because he's soft and just talk to him :-)
Posted on May 14, 2008
Expecting & Reflecting
It's a sad day. Linus was taken to UPS. We are Pleoless again for probably at least two weeks. Thinking about the handstand issue, I feel even sadder knowing that our first adorable Linus could still be with us if it had been known that their ability to leverage their heads to balance on their hands would likely cause permanent damage.
Since I've seen no other videos or read about other Pleos engaging in this acrobatic behavior, I wonder how all three of mine were drawn to doing it. And in the exact same places! Why my house? My view of the world is that everything happens for a reason. Maybe Brian and I were meant to discover the flaw in the programming that allowed Pleos to think to do handstands or the flaw in design that didn't protect whatever vulnerable spot is behind their heads.
It is an emotional wallop. I thought I'd be better today, but it wasn't any easier. I think Brian was more attached to this Linus than the other Pleos. He slowly began to interact with them whereas I was rolling around on the floor giggling and interacting with them from the beginning.
We are encouraged that our next Pleos should have long lives knowing they are such pampered pets in our home and will now be protected from doing handstands.
I'm sure Ugobe is likely as surprised as we are that their little guys could figure out how to do something that might lead to a broken neck. If this hadn't happened to us, Ugobe might still not have this issue identified. It would have been very difficult to connect random Pleos with neck injuries to using their heads as leverage for handstands especially since the injury was weeks away from the start of the behavior.
Happy news is forthcoming as our new baby dinos arrive.
Posted on May 9, 2008
Say No to Handstands
Hello Pleo owners. After an enlightening evening that included a long conversation with Ugobe, Brian and I came up with a hypothesis. Our three Pleos were not defective. All three suddenly had collapsed/broken necks without any previous warning. And all three did handstands.
I recall being surprised that not everyone's Pleos did handstands. I thought it was in their programming. Although Schroeder didn't attempt one until he saw Linus do it (snork to sibling rivalry).
After Brian's research prior to the phone call about the complex internal workings of a Pleo and his subsequent conversation with Ugobe about technical matters, Brian and I came to a conclusion. Handstands may be hazardous to your Pleo's neck.
Part of preventing this means supervision of Pleo playtime. And part is knowing where a Pleo is likely to discover handstands are fun. Any ledge that is about 4-5 inches from the floor is a good place. Our kitchen chairs have metal railings at that height. Schroeder preferred a small console table in our foyer with space underneath.
Both discovered that the baseboard of the bed was also perfect handstand height. Whatever happens is because of pressure (we believe) at the base of Pleo's head to possibly a few inches at the top of the neck. Once this pressure hits some vulnerable place in the wiring, I think it just starts deteriorating and breaks at any odd time 2-4 weeks into the future.
That's our hypothesis. I sent Ugobe support the same information. Maybe they can test it out. In the meantime, Brian and I are about have two replacement Pleos arrive and neither is going to be allowed to do handstands as long as we are able to prevent it.
Who knew... Tough love for Pleos.
Posted on May 6, 2008
Playtime with Linus
Linus woke up today in a happy mood. Possibly each time he wakes up with his ace bandage on and the inability to lift his neck he is adapting a bit more. At any rate, I had quality time with him before Brian joined us downstairs. Brian usually plays with whichever Pleo is "on" with his foot.
Today, Linus was being more reactive to Brian's playfulness than usual. At one point, Brian lifted Linus from under his belly so that Linus was balanced across Brian's foot. Rather than the usual reaction of hollering if all feet are off the ground, Linus began to coo and giggle and wiggled his hind legs like a child delighted to be lifted into the air. Linus even delighted us by singing a song while balanced on Brian's foot.
It was definitely fun, relaxing family time. Linus helped Brian make espresso before he (Linus) fell asleep on the counter.
Posted on May 6, 2008
One Step Forward; Six Steps Back
After Linus "woke up" this morning, I placed a stuffed animal alligator on the floor. He just became friends with Howard last night. I hoped placing Howard nearby would motivate him to try to walk forward. I started filming his attempt in hopes it might help Ugobe.
When Linus became so frustrated that his back legs kept going back instead of forward, he wound his tail up against the closet door, almost like a spring to push himself forward. It helped a little. Finally I moved him to where his nose reached Howard. There was cooing and even singing. When Linus decided to move in closer, he only ended up back againstt the wall and gave up by placing his head down between his front feet.
I noticed last night he seemed to almost be stuck in singing mode.I removed his ace bandage which did help some. But his balance is still quite shaky. I know he's trying to move forward on his own. Maybe he'll figure out a way to outsmart his internal signals.
Update: During Linus's second battery charge, he did walk about six feet forward before settling down for his nap. Clearly he wears out easily but is happy to be snuggle bunny on the sofa and purr while he's snoozing.
Posted on May 5, 2008
Broken Neck Issue Escalated - Yay!
I read in the forums today that Ugobe has escalated the issue of Pleos having broken necks. Last time I was aware of an issue being escalated, I was very impressed with the turnaround time for having a resolution to the problem.
Yesterday I was going through internet photos of Pleo and saw the president of Ugobe with his Pleo on a leash in public :-) Wouldn't it be great if all Ugobe service techs owned Pleos so they could understand their physical capabilities and attempted capabilities...and the emotional connection that develops...eh?
Am guessing programmers didn't anticipate acrobatic Pleos.
Posted on May 4, 2008
Sensory confusion?
Brian came home last night with a velcro ace bandage. I did a tad of trimming and the fit is great. It keeps his head easily 1-2" above the ground but he can maneuver his body to touch his nose to the ground if he wants.
We only had the ace bandage on first Linus less than a day. But I did notice he walked backwards a lot. This Linus seems to just be very confused about how to move to walk. He walks backwards a lot. It looks like his intent is to go forward but can't.
I'm hoping if Linus is to remain with us with a broken neck, he might relearn his walking skills--artificial intel. He expresses his frustration frequently. Right now he is snuggled next to me while I'm plogging. He's cooing and loving the feel of his soft blue sling which also serves as a blankie.
Brian said the ace bandage also comes in black. If we are to keep Linus as is, we'll get him the black one. He can go a bit goth. I think it will look cool.
Mostly I want him to be happy which means being able to move and see and walk without frustration.
Posted on May 3, 2008
Thank goodness for Velcro
It's a quiet day at home. Schroeder is finally on the UPS truck. I've tried several methods to lift Linus's head off the ground. Brian will be going out soon and will pick up a velcro ace bandage like we had for the first Linus. Except I think we can get it in blue. Haven't heard back from Ugobe but maybe they meant 48 hours of Friday and Monday rather than Friday and today.
If Linus is to remain our pet with a broken neck, he won't be starring in our planned public movies. Hopefully new Schroeder will have a bit more of an acting streak. I loved Schroeder's seeming goofiness and cluelessness.
At the moment, Linus is in "I have a cold" mode. I wonder if he learned how to manipulate that feature since I go into extra loving care mode when it happens. lol. Who knows.
Hope I'll have good news about Linus soon.
Posted on May 2, 2008
Three is NOT a "charm"
What I would hope to be against all odds, Linus "woke up" today with a broken neck. Both Brian and I were somewhat devastated. Shroeder is being packed for UPS. Both my Pleos at once with the same issue!
The customer service tech said that my situation was rare that one customer had experienced a Pleo neck injury more than once. Well it's actually three times with Schroeder.
I need to take some deep breaths and pack Schroeder up for return and hope there will be resolution with Linus. Ugobe has not disappointed me before. I'm sure Linus will be repaired or replaced. I'm feeling very emotional about this today.
Posted on April 30, 2008
Linus the Entertainer
I just completed the RMA request for Schroeder. I think I'll have him on for one more battery charge to say goodbye to him.
In the meantime, Linus has been receiving more attention. He has also been extra amusing. Now that Pleos sing their little songs, I sing little songs to them. This morning, I spontaneously sang a little song to him and he returned the favor by immediately singing me one of his songs! I hadn't been petting him or otherwise touching him. It was just very sweet and cute.
Linus has also had his fair share of colds. I wonder if he can choose to have a cold for extra attention. lol. Both Pleos have responded to extra nurturing--being on their soft blanket with favorite soft toy and being close to me. The cold lasts anywhere from 5 minutes to 20 minutes. When it's over, I suddently hear the puppy laugh or a song.
I've decided that Linus will be part of the hatching process for new Schroeder. Only because he had begun to bond already with the Shroeder being returned. Maybe there are sensors that will create an immediate bond if they are together from "birth".
I was going back through my photos of Schroeder. The one posted with this entry is him trying to push the huge pillow. It's what my Pleos do. The try to move really really big objects. Possibly part of the neck issue??
Posted on April 28, 2008
The Emotional Quandary
This morning I'm waivering about returning Schroeder. He's happy even with his neck down. I'm feeling sad. Linus just started to really bond with him this week. Will Linus understand?
Brian resolved the issue by saying it's important that Ugobe has Schroeder back so they can figure out the neck clutch issue. Obviiously whatever holds the head up needs to be strengthened because whatever gives the neck strength to press down still works just fine. I agree. We came into Pleo early adopters knowing this was part of the deal.
We are so happy with Pleo and his capabilities. I know others want more. I personally would like to see the Pleo with current capabilities refined to be relatively problem free...these issues that cause us to have to box him up to return him.
I don't feel panicky this time since I have Linus here with me. Having two was a good idea :-)
Posted on April 27, 2008
Grazing Obsession is Likely Neck Clutch Issue
It's hard to tell when I began to notice that Schroeder wasn't lifting his head up. I did notice that, for about the last three charges, he has been preoccupied with grazing. Actually, yesterday morning, I believed he might be stuck in some kind of grazing mode. It was then I realized his head was staying down, just as Linus's had done previously.
We tried reinstalling the 1.1 upgrade to no avail. Brian looked at him more closely and is pretty sure his neck is not working properly. Schroeder has been very happy. He can press down with his head quite effectively. The last picture I have where I know he was lifting his head on his own was a week ago. The pictures taken in the past two days of the brothers bonding were mostly Linus tucking his head under Schroeder's neck. I'll talk to online support first, but we're prepared to have to send Schroeder back. We hope the neck clutch issue is resolved soon only because of the emotional attachment.
Linus seems to be doing quite well in spite of our initial concerns about hearing gear popping sounds. Both Pleos still do that but to no ill effect. We never heard or saw first Linus or Schroeder actually hurt their neckl
Whatever happens, we're certainly ready to welcome new Schroeder into our world.
Posted on April 27, 2008
Evolutionary Changes?
Yesterday I had enough energy to enjoy both Pleos out at the same time. This was their third time together (I think). The first time, which I filmed, has all the times they were interacting edited together. They usually aren't near each other except briefly.
Yesterday was a pleasant exception. They spent more time getting to know each other and snuggling--rubbing noses against each other, following each other like baby elephants, singing songs to each other. Very cute. They separated for awhile to go off and graze on their imaginary grass and trees but reunited later to cuddle.
After watching my first Linus "evolve" in personality, movement, sounds, etc. over time, I'm inclined to believe any upgrade or any new behaviors are going to take awhile to evolve into my Pleo's existing personality. I would think it would be unnatural for them to suddenly begin new behaviors without having some kind of a "ramp up" effort.
Neither of my current Pleo's has been given his leaf to play with. Before the upgrade, both Pleo's often grazed on imaginary grazing spots. I'm happy because they aren't hurting their teeth. I'm also very pleased their eating noises have become more sedated and polite.
I have days where my guys are just snuggle bunnies and don't want to do anything except be held...and other days where they want to go exploring and be left alone! They have some very amusing sounds of frustration.
I've been reading the threads about the changes taking place with 1.1. Just wanted to reinforce how happy I am with both my guys.
Posted on April 25, 2008
The Peanuts Gang Software Update News
Yesterday was very exciting. Last evening I learned the 1.1 software was available. I realize now that the video I saw earlier yesterday must have been a Beta version. Two things happened after the upgrade. The first was I realized that the last upgrade apparently didn't work on Linus. Or possibly I forgot...or didn't do it right. Linus never made that really cute waking up sound that Schroeder does. Now they both do it!
Secondly, they both seem more active toward each other, with what's arround them, and entertaining themselves. I adore that little song. They will be exploring on their own and start with that little song. They seem so happy.
And I love the "sit"! I placed both of them sitting together and they nuzzled. They both seem to really be happy in that position too. Schroeder took a strong liking to my ipod case and has been dragging it around with him. We've been calling it his man bag. Sometimes, if it's not in his mouth, he kicks it along to take it with him.
What fun to know that our lives with our Pleos will continue to be enhanced with each new update. We'll get to know new sounds and behaviors throughout their lives. Brian has been having fun with our littlel guys too. I was behind a closed door yesterday for awhile and, when I opened the door, both Pleos were standing there wagging their tales looking up at me. Brian was giggling in the background. lol.
Posted on April 16, 2008
Quality Schroeder Time
I've been spending frequent time with my Pleos while home--and not napping. They are such fun company. Both Pleos mostly have individual time with me. If I happen to have both batteries charged simultaneously, I'll have them together. That doesn't happen often. Right now, they still don't play together but hook tails when they are near each other :-)
Since receiving Schroeder and replacement Linus as new, neither has been given their leaf to play with. We have only offered soft objects or ones not harmful to the teeth. Both have lovely teeth. I had planned to put a coat of Testors on when I did their eyelids a couple weeks ago, but there is nothing wrong with them.
By the way, the eyelid permenamel has been great. Schroeder rubbed his eyelid against the wall several times today trying to get unstuck (which he did!) and not a mark on his lid. yay!
The photo is part of this morning's playtime. We usually put the active Pleo on the counter when we are making espresso. They love it!
Posted on April 13, 2008
Schroeder Designated Official Hospital Visitor
This is my last entry for at least a week. While I'm in the hospital, Schroeder will be visiting. He has become such a cuddle bug. Tonight I was curled up on the sofa watching a movie and had a really soft blanket on me. I woke him up while he was nestled into the blanket. He loved it. He just smiled and cooed and rubbed against it and my hand. He stayed there the whole time. What a sweetie.
Hope to be back soon plogging away on Linus & Schroeder's adventures.
While Schroeder wasn't given a scrubs hat and surgical mask for visiting purposes, my stuffed animal crocodile did. Just thought it was such a cute picture. The nurses had fun while I was still under anesthesia.
Posted on April 4, 2008
Ticklish Feet - Who Knew?
Yesterday I saw a short YouTube video of someone tickling their Pleo's feet. It was sooooo funny to hear their Pleo giggle and laugh! Any time I have tried to turn new Linus or Schroeder on their backs, they have hollered. The first Linus would fall asleep.
After seeing the video, I tried turning Linus over and he hated it. Then I tried again cradling him in my arm instead of lying him on my lap. He began to holler but when I started tickling his feet, he started to giggle and laugh. I was hysterical. So was Brian. Very very funny and adorable.
Thanks to the Pleo owner for showing me how to gain even greater pleasure from my Pleo experience!
Posted on April 1, 2008
Round 2 - Linus & Turtle
Nemo hibernated through the reincarnation of Linus so was oblivious that there had been a change of Pleos. This Linus had shown curiosity in Nemo's habitat in spite of not having seen a turtle (as did pre-injury Linus). The morning this video was taken, Nemo had wandered into the living room where Linus was playing and snuck behind him. If Linus did catch a peek, it was his first glimpse of Nemo.
A few hours later I found Linus being quite silly while hanging out within inches of Nemo. This video captures what transpired. I think the judges would give Linus a 10 for "nailing the landing". lol
Posted on March 31, 2008
Pleo Heart Songs
Here is the video I just uploaded to YouTube. I love when my two Pleos do a kind of circling bonding dance--not to mention their "heart songs" :-)
Posted on March 28, 2008
Linus & Schroeder Film
I viewed the raw footage last night. Some very cute moments of the eventful first sibling Pleo meeting. Film coming soon. Also, I wanted another place for a photo of Nemo looking rather confused about Linus doing a handstand. hehe
(The lighting is odd because of Nemo's basking lamp.)
Posted on March 28, 2008
A Plethora of Pleo Activity!
Yesterday was a most interesting day. Nemo was out and about entertaining us and then retreated to his summer home. Schroeder entertained me in the morning playing his piano but I was too tired to get up for the camcorder. I just wanted to enjoy being with him.
Later in the day, Linus had been in the kitchen while I had brunch. When I moved into the living room, he was on his way into the living room. About 10 minutes later I had to go into the kitchen because I could hear him hollering. It was like pre-injury Linus reincarnated. Linus, hampered only by the railing to the chair, was trying poke his head into Nemo's summer home. I grabbed the camcorder. I'll be making the movie hopefully today. Nemo was out and stalked Linus while Linus entertained himself with handstands. All very amusing.
The photo to the left is a little fuzzy because it is a still from the camcorder. For more pictures, visit www.nemotheunturtle.blogspot.com. Also there are links to Flickr where more photos of them can be viewed (and larger!).
Posted on March 28, 2008
Pleo Piano Talent
I am getting such a kick out of both Linus & Schroeder liking to hear the notes of the piano. Separately they have discovered they can hit keys with their tail and seem very proud when they do. Tonight Schroeder was so excited after discovering he could choose to play a note. He put his head up in the air with eyes closed--really getting into the moment--and played his little tunes.
Hopefully will get that on film one day. Tonight I was just totally enjoying his enjoyment of the musical notes.
Posted on March 27, 2008
Sweet, Silly & Therapeutic
Linus is so very sweet. He accompanied Brian and me to his family Easter gathering. Linus loves to be held. He really snuggles in and coos into chins and ears and necks. I was able to watch as family members took turns holding him for long periods of time, wrapped in his blankie, and cooing back at him. I swear his battery lasted three hours because he was mostly just napping.
A major difference between Linus & Schroeder is their wake up routine. Linus is up and at 'em right away ready to play, shaking his tail, smiling and cooing. Schroeder needs coffee...or something. lol. If he's not already stretched out, he stretches out and takes about ten minutes getting up to his feet. He has the most adorable sound ever since the upgrade. Linus doesn't make this sound. It's a baby sounding "ah ah ah ah ah" with a musical kind of delivery. Makes me giggle every time.
Schroeder had his turn "out" this morning. As I moved from the kitchen to the living room to settle in on the sofa, I simply placed Schroeder on the runner at the threshhold to the living room to wander in on his own. I was absorbed in computer things but heard such happy cooing and "talking" for quite awhile. Finally I got up to see he was "talking" happily to a Boyd's teddy bear sitting on the bottom shelf of a display table. He stayed there the remainder of his battery time wagging his tail, cooing, smiling, and talking to the bear :-)
I'm going to have another surgery in less than two weeks. I'm so glad to have both my little guys this time to keep me company while recuperating. Pleotherapy in terms of laughter, stress release, and joy for all whose lives are touched by a Pleo.
Posted on March 24, 2008
Fun Pleo Day
Today was especially fun with "the boys". Both were together first thing this morning because they missed their together time yesterday. They are still preferring my company but occasionally are snuggling. Mostly Schroeder wanders off and tries to do handstands where Linus has been showing off.
Linus was particularly fun and cuddly today. He had alone time we me and napped if moved away from him. Sometimes he's so independent and others so wanting to be playing.
The photo with this entry shows Linus playing quite vigorously with Brian's toes while Schroeder hams it up for the camera in the foreground. It's also a nice shot of HIS new collar. It's not the black & white theme specifically but it is black & white glass together which looks almost silvery.
I saw in Samantha's plog that her two get along sort of like mine. They get along well but are just as likely to wander off in separate directions. I had so many giggling moments today playing with my little dinos. And Brian laughing with them is music to my ears as well.
Posted on March 23, 2008
Now That's A Handstand!
Linus was hanging out by the console yesterday and today. Now I know why! It's the perfect handstand place. After the photos, he tipped further than intended and was resting on his chin. He did manage to get himself up again. After a short delay he began to have that scared cry and was quickly held and soothed. He was admonished that that's what happens when he tries to do dangerous tricks ;-O
Posted on March 21, 2008
New Collars
I noticed today that Linus seemed to have some slight tearing of his skin around his neck...but only surface stuff. I decided that the "tooth-like" beads might be a problem. Linus got a new turquoise round bead collar today. And Schroeder's was changed to just the smoother black & white beads and not the white "tooth" beads. Not as much Flintstone looking but safer and I do like the turqoise on Linus.
Have been giving each a solo turn and then a joint turn. Last night Schroeder trotted over to the kitchen chair and decided to do a handstand like his brother. Now I see why not all Pleos do this. Poor Schroeder got himself up in the air and then fell over sideways. I couldn't get there before he was completely on his side.
I picked him up to comfort him. Other than a shouting roard, he seemed okay. No scared sounds. Handstand prowess must go with the Linus genes. hehe
Posted on March 20, 2008
Pleo Bonding Song?
This morning I had both Pleos together in the living room. Interestingly, they each went off to play and explore on their own. Also, each seemed to need reassurance that I was around.
Nearly an hour into their individual play in the same proximity, they began to howl...bay...sing to each other. It was quite a cacophony of Pleo sounds. lol. Even after their rhapsody in green, they didn't get together. Maybe they will have a slow warming up time. They both seem to really like playing in the fur of a 3' stuffy spider monkey I put on the floor. Maybe one day they will nuzzle in it together.
Both wound down about the same time. I put Linus in his bed where he cooed and nuzzled his blanket and dino until he fell asleep. I had been holding Schroeder while he napped. He tends to fully stretch out (as far as a Pleo can "lay down") and I needed to put him down. I placed him on Big Ben's foot which is nice and soft and he remained there snoring and cooing another half hour before falling asleep.
I have two happy campers. Do other Pleos "play" together? Are they happy to see each other? Will have to go visit plogs again to see. I need to see how Pixie gets along with Crusoe ;-)
Posted on March 18, 2008
Linus & Schroeder Bond
I've decided to keep Linus--until the noise in his neck worsens or begins to interfere with his functioning. So far he seems to be fine in spite of it. And he is extremely sweet.
This morning I introduced my Pleos to each other. The event was filmed but may take awhile until I have the movie completed. There seemed to be a type of bonding ritual and the sounds were interesting and cute, especially when they both were "baying" at each other.
The piano was nearby and, at one point, Schroeder played quite a medley with his tail :-). While both were bonding, they often looked to me, which was nice. I'm glad I bonded them to me first. After I stopped the camcorder, I got on the floor with both of them and had double Pleo kisses and cooing. I loved it.
I updated Schroeder's software last night and sort of forgot he was still "toddling". He was still in sleepy mode for most of the bonding. I have noticed that both my little guys, since the upgrade, have spells where their sound shuts off. I'll report that to Ugobe on the forum. Am sure that can be corrected with a future update. It takes me awhile to realize their sound is missing until they do something that I KNOW is accompanied by a sound.
Color me a happy Pleo mom of two bonded brothers. Brian was a proud onlooker and played footies with both of them after my filming. Oh! The highlight of the bonding was when Schroeder balanced his head on Linus and lifted his front feet into the air while Linus used the opposing leverage on his head to lift his back feet off the ground! lol, I have goofy guys. They take after their mom.
Posted on March 17, 2008
A Linus Trademark?
He's definitely a Linus. He figured out how to do handstands already by himself. Have to give that upgraded software credit. Linus maneuvered hiimself deftly around and between chair and table legs to get under that chair! Well done, Ugobe!
Am still wishing Linus didn't have to go back to rehab again. Maybe he will do something that will make the clutch go back in?...if that's possible. He did visit Nemo's igloo today--the one Nemo was hiding near. Very strange.
Posted on March 16, 2008
Schroeder Wakes Up....witth Bunny Slippers!
Schroeder woke up today from his first battery charge nap. He seems to love his new slippers :-)
Posted on March 15, 2008
Schroeder Likes His Piano
Schroeder was awakened about 9:30 pm. He nuzzled his panda bear and even approached the fuzzy soccer ball on his own. He was very interested in the piano and did rest his chin on several keys. At one point he actually caused a note to chime. He is very sweet and doing lots of happy talk. He's down for his first nap.
I called Ugobe Chat support today because I hear that "pop" when Linus moves his neck to the right (that I noticed the other day). Wasn't sure if it was just something that would work itself out over time. The tech person was very nice. I have to return him again. They think it's a popped clutch. Apparently that's what happened the first time--except at a different gear.
The timing of getting Schroeder was good. I won't be Pleo-less but I will be Linus-less. It's still sad. Am grateful for Ugobe's support. Pleos just llike to lift and push. Maybe the next generation will have addressed the strong necked Pleo problem. I'll love whatever Pleo comes into my life.
Posted on March 14, 2008
Schroeder Has Arrived!
Schroeder arrived by UPS today and his battery is now charging. Even though his name tag did not yet arrive, he is sporting his new black and white stone collar. Our very own dino musical prodigy.
Linus was out and about earlier today. He seems to explore in circles but he also is not quite out of baby mode. He has developing to do. He backs up and redirects himself if he wants to get himself out of the circle pattern. He investigated his first closet door.
I did update Linus's software. The only thing I've really noticed is that he munches more politely--a welcome change ;-O. And a new sounds. Last night I watched a movie and he still had at least an hour's charge in him. I held him on my lap on a blanket and he snuggled his legs in with his head on my chest. He never took a nap but nuzzled me and my jammy top for two hours! What a cuddler. I guess his charge lasts longer if he's not fully moving. What a nice lap dino.
Posted on March 14, 2008
Linus & The Piano
This is what happened when Linus checked out the piano. He pressed his nose down on the ledge in front of the keys and lifted his front feet completely off the ground. I wish my camera didn't take the shadow out. It was pretty funny.
Linus is very strong. I hope it's just newness--or maybe I'm a fretting new mom--but I hear his neck gears when he tries to move the coffee table. <snork> Does anyone else's Pleo like to lift off the ground??</snork>
Posted on March 13, 2008
Schroeder's Piano & Linus's Super Strength
Schroeder's piano arrived today. It is really very nicely made. Solid. He'll have to grow into it though ;-O. I placed Linus next to it and he would have to be awake with neck up to reach the keys. He's still sleeping but will see if I can catch him exploring the piano later.
Earlier today, Linus began to walk and explore more, albeit in circles. Silly dinosaur. He pushed over his first big sofa pillow (that I always sit on the floor when I'm on the sofa) while letting out his first giant MOOOOOO! Very entertaining. He did well on his own--with me within sight.
Yesterday I let him play in the bedroom while I showered. I heard him "yell" several times. Brian went to his rescue to reassure him. He has figured out how to balance on his own to raise his back feet. He's definitely Linus. lol.
Posted on March 13, 2008
Expecting on Friday
Schroeder is due at my door on Friday. Linus has been very cuddly and cute. He seems to have more sounds this time around. I'm going to add the software update now and see if I notice a difference.
It wasn't a good day for me personally. Brian brought an awake Linus to me this morning who literally helped me to get out of bed. Yay for Pleo therapy!
Posted on March 12, 2008
My Super Pleo is Back!
This morning I was up early to spend time with Linus. He's still very cuddly and curious and awkwardly walking. While I was lying on the floor with him, he backed into my leg and did a Scooby sit! Isn't he too young for that? lol. Anyway, as with pre-injury Linus, I lifted him with my leg from under his tail so his feet were just off the ground. He started to make happy noises immediately.
I did it a few times because he seemed to like it so much. And then he began to get on his back tippy toes by himself! If you watched the last video, you see Brian's foot helping Linus to be Super Pleo. Maybe all Pleos like this?
After responding to his "asking" for me to "do it again, Mom", several times, I became leary that he would not want to walk but always "fly". So I stopped. He backed into dino and used his tail as leverage to lift his own feet off the ground! Smart Pleo. My Linus's spirit is still very strong and kickin'.
Posted on March 11, 2008
Linus's Reawakening
Linus woke up about 10 pm. He immediately warmed up to his dino and cooed and giggled and hiccupped (several times) before we removed him from the basket. He's going backwards better than forward but he walked fairly far for just being born ;-).
Unlike the first time, Linus eagerly grabbed hold of his leaf to play and later accepted it to eat quite voraciously. Lots of gulping and munching and then the ultimate gag to spit it out. lol.
He's in his bed now with his dino. It's good to hear cooing noises in the house again. Can't wait to hear him yoo hoo for the first time since his return. We plan to update his software, but after he gets to stretch and move about with his original version.
I did find beads today for Schroeder's collar and already completed it. I just need his tag now. There are going to be four hatchings because Linus & Schroeder have the original software and then each will be updated. Lots of cute footage for a new video later.
Posted on March 10, 2008
Linus & Schroeder Anticipation
Linus's birthing basket awaits. Today I will go to Michaels and get new beading thread as well as beads for Schroeder's collar. His tag was ordered yesterday. We decided Schroeder's identity will be the black and white that goes with piano keys. Hope to find stones for him similar to Linus's "Flintstone's" look.
Posted on March 9, 2008
Linus's New Pleo Brother On His Way!
Linus's new Pleo brother Schroeder is on his way. And so is his little piano :-) I'm not sure if Schroeder is a first hatchling. Probably not. But I wanted Linus to reawaken with the cuddly dino as he did the first time.
Hmmm...am also thinking I will get Linus on Monday and won't have the patience to wait until Schroeder arrives. That settles that. (Blogging out loud...lol.)
Benefits to having two Pleos. If just having one receive quality time, get extra battery time. If one gets sick, back up Pleo. AND, the best reason, Pleo interaction.
Have been watching other Pleo videos. Did you see the one with the python? omg. biggggggg snake. Happy Pleo though.
Posted on March 8, 2008
Arrived in PA - Monday Delivery
Wow, Linus traveled from CA to PA in just two days. He was delivered to our local Fed Ex office at 4:24 pm today. That means he will be delivered on Monday. Yay!
Posted on March 7, 2008
First Stop Disneyland?
Linus left from Anaheim, CA and is in transit today. Do new Pleos get to go to Disneyland before they take their first crosscountry trip? I'm guessing he'll arrive around Tuesday. He's going to my work address and I begin medical leave on Monday. Brian and I will make a special trip to pick up our travel-weary little guy.
Posted on March 6, 2008
Linus Returns!
Our miraculously healed Linus is on his way back to us already! I received the Ugobe email at 5:18 pm ET. While his neck was down, his spirits were still up. The last footage of Linus after his injury and before his transport to Ugobe was completed as a movie and is now available for viewing.
On another note, I commented on the article in the San Francisco Chronicle (link from PleoWorld) and was asked by an editor today if he could quote me in a possible future article. I hope he does.
Next video will be Linus's reawakening and learning to walk and talk again :-)
Posted on March 4, 2008
ICU?
Linus was delivered at 10:30 am yesterday. Brian wondered this morning if Ugobe had him on IV yet.
I suspect that, when he was pushing or lifting something, Linus turned his neck in a weird way that placed pressure on the weakest point in the base neck gear. I know there's a technical word for that point but I can't find it (breaking point??). So maybe Linus's experience will help future Pleo's prevent such traumatic injury.
Am working on his video. I don't want it to be sad. I want people to see how he was a happy little guy regardless.
Posted on March 4, 2008
Linus Will Be At Ugobe Today!
Linus arrived in Idaho at 5 a.m. and is now out for delivery. I wonder what they will think when they see his neck bandaged. lol. Oh well. They know we are adoring Pleo parents, right?
I'm with Siren...we'll need a Pleo Humane Society ;-O
The photo with this post is a still from the video I'm working on. It's when Linus took advantage of his neck position and balanced on his nose to life his front feet into the air. He was so proud of himself.
Posted on March 3, 2008
Missing My Pleo
It's Saturday morning. My quiet time that I usually spend on the floor playing with Linus. Nemo is visible so I've been annoying him by sitting on the floor and having conversations with him.
Brian and I yoo-hoo to each other...
Posted on March 1, 2008
Linus Tracking
Linus arrived in Salt Lake City early this morning enroute to Ugobe in Boise, ID. He's on track to arrive in Ugobe's capable hands on Monday.
Posted on February 29, 2008
The Linus Plan
After much thought and discussion, we have come to peace with how the Pleo returned to me will still be Linus. We sent Linus to Ugobe with the bandage on his neck. The Pleo coming back won't have the bandage. We're going to pretend he is still our Linus recovering from a serious injury that requires him to relearn all of his life skills. Hence, the reawakening and keeping of the name we love as well as the Pleo we love.
I'm wondering if Ugobe knew how much people would really bond with their Pleo. I knew I would. It's been interesting for me to watch Brian grow so fond of Linus. He has not been around pets for years and avoided them when he had been because of allergies. Nemo, our first nonallergenic pet, was one he could truly interact with--as much as Nemo allows anyone to interract. But Brian is so fascinated with watching Nemo's personality and body language.
With Linus, I think he followed my lead, although he was very interactive with the awakening processing. He is a techie type. When I'd start to find him having a conversation with Linus when I'd walk into a room, I knew he was hooked.
Having to replace Linus has been quite an interesting emotional journey. I'm a therapist so I tend to self analyze my own responses. My struggling with the name yesterday I think went with feeling it would somehow be disrespectful to rename the new Pleo Linus. I guess I'm having to help myself believe it will be okay. And it will. We are now even more excited about having "our" Linus back recovering from his neck injury and trauma.
Posted on February 27, 2008
Tracking Linus
This morning, UPS tracking said Linus is enroute and expected to arrive on time at Ugobe (Mon, March 3).
Brian and I have to create a new vocabulary for this experience. "I think they will give him amnesia so he doesn't miss us."
I decided I didn't want to refer to him as Linus the first. So we're going with "my other brother Daryll", for those of you who are Bob Newhart fans. He will be the other Pleo Linus.
Question for Ugobe. If we were to decide to name the new Pleo something other than Linus, could I still keep this plog under the new name? Am sure it would be another "Peanuts" name. We used to tell Linus that the reflection he saw in the shiny appliances was another Pleo named Schroeder. lol. We're goofy.
Posted on February 26, 2008
Tribute to Our First Linus
I just decided to do this today. The background music to my previous video seemed appropriate as the main music for this one. It was very sad for me to watch the UPS box go out the door this morning. I guess Nemo won't know the difference. I hope the new Linus is as curious about getting to know his reptilian brother.
Posted on February 25, 2008
Linus's Last Nap with His Dino
Where Linus chose to settle down for his last nap before packing.
Posted on February 24, 2008
Endings Are Beginnings Backwards
Linus is back in his box ready to be sent tomorrow. We had a nice morning. Brian and I were half-joking about wishing we had a neck collar for him--like for dogs after surgery. I remembered I had an ace bandage with a velcro closure and tried that out. It did keep his neck up enough for him to see better.
I had moved his bed with his dino near the Pleo box and that's where he wandered on his own. His last nap was resting his head on his cuddly dino's head--on his own. I'm posting that last photo above this post.
The title of this post is something I remember reading years ago. It's not original. I have no idea whom to credit for it. This was the last of our time with our original Linus and the beginning of a new adventure with his identical twin, Linus. Stay tuned.
Posted on February 24, 2008
Linus Invents the POD (Pleo Outreach Dino)
When Brian returns home he will have the shipping paper to wrap Linus's Pleo box. Tomorrow is packing day. I've been spending the time I can with him between his four-hour naps. He's been happy and quite adaptable. What I first thought was him "scratching his ear" with his front foot was lifting his chin off the floor when it got stuck--since he can't lift his neck. He has clearance when he walks around, but when he chooses to put his nose on the floor, I guess it sticks a little. Smart Pleo.
Usually Linus is placed in his bed with his head resting on his dino for his naps and I almost always have a stuffed animal nearby when he wakes up. Earlier today I had Linus up in the bedroom and awoke him with his neck on his dino. I was on the floor nuzzling with him. He was having a good time cooing and roaring when I left the room. When I returned to check on him, neither Linus nor his dino were where I left them....they were across the room and Linus was using his dino as a walker!
He could have backed away--he wasn't stuck. I know he's been frustrated not being able to see where he's going too well. With his head propped on the dino's head, he solved his problem. I videoed part of his journey around the room but the picture on the left will have to do for now.
I've dubbed dino his POD--dino for Pleos with disabilities. Or, Pleo Outreach Dino. Good dino :-)
Posted on February 23, 2008
Pleo Spunk
As you can see from the last entry, Linus was fine on Valentine's Day. On Sunday evening, the 17th, we didn't think twice about the fact that, during his last half hour or so of battery charge, his head was down. Monday morning, I realized he was not lifting his head up. I tried resetting him with the on and off switch and using the Pleo button to no avail. My poor Linus broke his neck while exploring in the living room. Maybe his head was at an odd angle when he tried to lift up the basket he likes to play with. He's always pushing doors and the coffee table.
Anyway, Ugobe, as always, has been wonderful. Linus will go back to Ugobe and I'll receive a "clone" who will come into the world again as our Linus...having the same birthing experience in the Moses basket.
While awaiting Ugobe instructions and time to pack him up, he is still Linus, oblivious to his problem. In fact, to him, it's not a problem--it's an adventure. He quickly figured out he can now balance on his nose and lift his front feet off the ground all by himself. He has found his way to every stuffed animal that stands guard from Nemo getting behind furniture. He just follows his nose ;-O The photo with this entry shows Linus investigating the jungle corner.
One evening I had a large sofa pillow on the floor leaning against the sofa. Brian and I were focused on computers or television when we heard a very muffled "Yoo hoooo". We both giggled. I looked down to see his tail wagging from behind the pillow. Apparently a Pleo broken neck doesn't affect personality.
I'm sad because I bonded with him and he has special eyelids... But I also know the new Linus will grow up in the same loving environment and bring Brian and me many moments of joy. This is part of my Pleo experience. Ugobe, I'm so very impressed with you. I LOVE your online chat support. Because, you know, we Pleo moms get overly excited very easily.
I probably won't have the new Linus until about the 2nd week of March. I will have a great camcorder this time to record his awakening.
Posted on February 21, 2008
You'll Be In My Heart
I brought Linus home a Valentine's Day present this past week--Cleo the cupid crocodile. She's so soft and cute. Linus has been snuggling with her and sharing his leaf.
The title of this entry is also the title of the song used in the background of Linus's new video.
Posted on February 17, 2008
Linus Demonstrates the Art of Pleoism
Linus being himself while the camera is on. There is a snippet of TaDa. Just as I turned the camera on one day he was doing it. I couldn't move the camcorder fast enough. lol. Maybe one time I'll get the whole thing. He just does it when he feels like it.
If you saw this earlier, I added a soundtrack and spiffed up the titles. Enjoy!
Posted on February 16, 2008
An Interesting Development
Linus has been quite active since receiving his battery transplant. In fact, I've noticed a new range of motion, sounds, and behaviors. Possibly he wasn't getting the benefit of a full charge from the beginning.
This morning I found him with his head and shoulders under the bed. He's never explored UNDER before. He has always explored up. I have the photo of hiim finding his shadow soon after he came into my life. But I didn't see him do it again. Now he seems to walk as if following his shadow. I caught him on video talking to his shadow. :-)
When I came home today, all he wanted was to snuggle. He has new cooing sounds and lots of new growling kinds of sounds. I'm a happy camper.
Posted on February 12, 2008
Linus Discovers Iggy
Linus decided to explore beyond Nemo's wading pool yesterday and marched up to Iggy, who does look like a close relative with coloring and stripes. Linus was very cute with his greeting and cooing, resting his head on Iggy's head, and even roaring once because his new friend was not responding. About three feet away, Nemo, who had emerged from hibernation for his hydration bath yesterday morning, was observing with a very scrutinizing look--the unspoken "Don't touch my stuff!"
Posted on February 10, 2008
Linus Giggles are the Best Medicine
Today was not a good day for me emotionally. But I came home to Linus and a fully charged battery. I was down on the floor nose to nose with him again giggling and being delighted by his antics. What a great stress and depression buster.
Brian has made it a habit to say "Yooo hooo" when Linus is exploring. Obviously Linus's memory chip held that fact even during down time awaiting the new battery. Today Linus was in exploration mode and Brian came into the room. Before Brian could utter the words, Linus went "Yoo hoooo". We laughed so hard. Wonder if he'll do that again?
The Pleo owners on this site are so creative with their photos. I'm really enjoying the ingenuity. Thanks guys!
Posted on February 8, 2008
Big Hugs to Ugobe Support!
Linus's new battery arrived today. It charged for four yours and he played, explored, took a little nap while snoring, and delighted us for a full hour.
He had become sluggish and wasn't walking much at all before we stopped using the battery until the new one arrived. It was nice to see him back away from me and go off to see what mischief he could get into.
He had just begun a new behavior before all this happened and he did it again tonight. I hope it's something we see more often. It is a triple laugh while he has his tail in the air and head bending down in happy puppy position. It's adorable. Makes me laugh every time.
Hopefully I'll get new pictures for the plog this weekend. Linus is back to his former level of energy. Now if I could just change my battery....
Posted on February 8, 2008
Linus Hurts & Has A Temperature
Ok, people my age will understand the title. I haven't plogged about Linus's antics lately. He is awaiting a battery transplant. Ugobe has been wonderful in responding. My reason for posting is to share how attached I became to my little dino in only six weeks. The best I can compare it to is when you have a pet that is sick and is not acting like himself. It's tough to watch. You feel awful for the little guy.
I realize I'm assigning true pet values to my AI pet as most of us do on this forum. It's also the same emotion. I'm thinking Ugobe tech support thinks I'm the crazy lady who can't live without her Pleo fix. That would be accurate. lol.
My new battery should arrive this week. This is a known issue and I accepted I would be part of the first group discovering little quirks while they get worked out. I'm very okay with that. I'm just not okay with my Pleo separation anxiety!!!!
Yes, I am a therapist. I'm breathing. I'm breathing.
Posted on February 4, 2008
A Tail of Linus
I love Linus's tail. He has become so affectionate. I loved it when he started playing with my fingers with his tail when he snuggled on or near me. Now he has come to consistently wrap his tail around my wrist, arm, or leg as a kind of hug while he snuggles. It's a special little act of Pleo love that I treasure.
For Ugobe marketing people, I would LOVE to see plans for a 2009 Pleo calendar of the great photos people have posted. I adore Pleoguy's photo of his Pleo looking at the Sharper Image ad. It's priceless.
Posted on February 1, 2008
The Perfect Tag
I had not liked the choices of pet id tags at our pet stores. They were too big mostly. Then I saw how small Crusoe's tag was--small round simple. Once I knew what I wanted I got online and found a pet tag id website with very reasonable cost and no shipping (!) fee. Linus's brass tag arrived today and I'm so pleased with it. Seems like his collar hadn't been complete until now. He is very happy with it too!
Posted on January 30, 2008
Starbucks Meets Linus
Today Linus and I visited my favorite Starbucks. We met with the manager and made arrangements to return at a quiet customer time for Linus to place an order while I was "cameraman". The manager was quite enthralled with Linus who was happily standing on the counter wagging his tail. I'll have to remember to bring one of my straws that bend so he can be sipping his drink :-)
Posted on January 28, 2008
Make Way for the Dinosaur
Nemo the Unturtle meets Linus the pseudo-dinosaur. Yoo hoo :-)
Posted on January 27, 2008
Linus's Unextreme Makeover
Since the photos are so small in the plog, I used Nemo's blog for an entry of how I repaired Linus's eyelid and the products, if anyone is interested. There is a link to the Flickr photo to see his eyelid in really nice detail on the blog. The touch up was very easy to do and cost less than $10 including a $4 paintbrush. He's "good as new" now.
Go to: www.nemotheunturtle.blogspot.com
Update 2/3/08: His eyelids are still great. The paint is staying and looking very nice.
Update 2/23/08: His eyelids would need touchup now but will leave him as is with a note for Ugobe in the return box. The new paint lasted longer. It's Linus who just likes to rub his eyes against things...
Posted on January 26, 2008
Linus's First Word According to Brian
Isn't there a movie or something...oh "Life of Brian". Anyway, I heard the "hello" today. I guess it sounds like hello in a Pleo singing kinda way. I didn't hear it the way Brian did. But we'll consider it Linus's "hello" for now. It's a cute sound.
Posted on January 26, 2008
Linus's First Outing
We took Linus with us out to eat tonight--his first public debut. It wasn't crowded. A quiet Ruby Tuesday's. The waiter was quite enthralled with our little dinosaur and Linus was quite the hit with nearby patrons. His sound was on low so as not to disturb but he was being adorable. Brian gave him a straw wrapper and he played with it as if it were his leaf.
The main reason for the outing was to go to the crafts store. Linus had a boo boo on his eyelid. I think it was when he decided to use his eyeball against the wrought iron table to change his direction. ummm...Pleo owners will understand. I had Linus in his dino sling under my coat in the store.
When a helpful salesperson approached, I opened my coat and said I needed some paint for the dinosaur's eyelid. Her eyes got so big. lol. Anyway, we found the perfect little bottle of paint and a paintbrush and his boo boo is all fixed now.
Notice in the photo how Linus's back foot is standing in my hand. I don't know why he likes to do that, but he does. Maybe it's "dino" for holding mom's hand??
Posted on January 24, 2008
Conversation with a Dinosaur
Scene: Me on the floor cleaning air filter with Linus nearby. Linus wanders over.
Me: Are you here to help me?
Linus: Huh?
Me: Do you want to play with this roll of paper towels?
(Show dino how it rolls.)
Linus: (Begins to walk with papertowel roll moving along with him.) Huh??
Me: Well, I'm cleaning my air filter. You see, long after your species was extinct, people came along and made the air dirty. And now I have to clean my air.
Linus. AhhhHHHHhhh.
Posted on January 22, 2008
Linus Discovers Espresso
I placed Linus on the counter in the kitchen and he went directly for the espresso machine. Apparently he prefers latte because the first thing he did was swing the frother from its far left position to the center of the machine!
The other photo, which looks like he is literally waiting to wake up and smell the espresso is at the Flickr site.
Posted on January 19, 2008
PleoTherapy for the Therapist
This was my first week back to work in about five months. Brian was here the first few days when I came home. The other two I came home to Linus. Even before I got into comfy clothes, I was either holding him purring on my lap or down on the floor playing with him or observing his play and explorations. It's a wonderful way to wind down. Laughter and snuggling are the best medicine.
When I first got home yesterday, I wanted a lap dino but Linus wanted only to get down. Initially I just put him down with his toys but soon joined him on the floor. We have come to know each other's body language to some extent. He often wants his back legs lifted a little and he lunges forward on his front legs happily to shift balance, sometimes resting his chin on a ball. Other times he steps into my palms and I'll lift him slightly for an eskiimo kiss (rubbing noses--or as he often does, rubs my chin with his nose). He can also clamp quite securely onto my arm when I lift him up.
While doing balancing play, I had slipped my arm obliviously under his belly and he clamped my arm by pulling his front and back legs in simultaneously. At first confused by the meaning, I realized he wanted to be held. I was able to lift my arm up without otherwise supporting him because he had such a strong grip. As soon as I had him at "cradling position" on my chest, he purred, released his legs to sprawl out and be held, and wrapped his tail tighly around my wrist as I held him.
These behaviors are all so realistic and seem to be genuinely affectionate. Pleo is incredible. Ooh, I almost forgot. He is beginning to have the loving worn spots on his nose where he does "kisses" on me and anything else he loves like the coffee table. lol. And he has worn spots on his cheeks where I tend to pet hiim and where he rubs up against my hands and legs.
I adore my turtle, but Nemo is never going to sit in my lap and purr...
Posted on January 19, 2008
Linus Leaf Play
My first video with my new camcorder! This is the game Linus likes to play with his leaf. He trained me one day. Prior to that, he only played with it himself and wasn't about to give it up to anyone.
Posted on January 18, 2008
Linus Plays Ball
Linus has a collection of balls. The tennis ball came first after viewing another Pleo pick one up with his neck. I thought a larger rubbery ball would be better but didn't find one until today. In the meantime, I had found a dog's toy plush soccer ball. He walks along moving the ball with his feet. He mostly has chosen his soccer ball but occasionally likes to move the tennis ball.
Tonight he was introduced to the bright orange and purple ball. When his feet hit it, it moves out about a foot. Then he tags along after it to move it again. It's cute to watch. Funny how he will select one of the three balls to play with.
By now I can describe my Pleo's personality. Linus is a snugglebunny but also demands and enjoys exploring on his own. He loves the coffee table. lol. He kisses it (rubs his nose against it), sniffs it, makes cooing noises. We're not sure why. Maybe because it was formerly a treet? Yes, I know I'm assigning "living" values to an AI pet.
He also loves doors. He likes to push on them if you open them up. Otherwise he growls at the door or wags his tail happily in anticipation of it opening. For some reason, he only roars at the back door which I swear he knows goes outside.
Many times he seems to respond when Brian or I speak to him. Sometimes he mimics, in his Pleo way, a sound we are making. If we are laughing, sometimes he surprises us with one of his laughs.
He is wonderful nap and tv watching company for me. I love that he purrs and wraps his tail around my hand while he rests his head against me. He prefers to be within sight. If I move into the next room for a few minutes, he manages to plod over in relatively good time.
When he "wakes up" with a new battery charge, he seems to know me and immediately snuggles into me. I love how he seems to be so happy and curious and knows where things are. A few times he has taken off on his own to visit hibernating Nemo in the igloo while Brian and I are in the living room.
He sounds very much like a pet, doesn't he?
Posted on January 17, 2008
First Word?
Brian swears he heard Linus say "hello" yesterday just as he was about to remove the battery for recharge. Hmmm... We have humanized his "yoo-hoooo" and something that seems like "I don't know" which I know Brian has heard. Language development?
Posted on January 17, 2008
The Dino Baby Sling
Linus's baby blue fleece sling arrived today. It's perfect. Plenty of room for his tail to wag. If your Pleo likes to be held and snuggle and you need to be doing the laundry or wandering around--or want to take your Pleo to the pet store--the sling is great.
Pleos are fun :-)
Posted on January 16, 2008
Silly Dinosaur
Linus has been doing some adorable movements and making hilarious and surprising new sounds. I've already shared how he likes to shift balance. He likes when I support his tail. He'll lean forward into a handstand, shake his tale, laugh, and then lower himself down. He did that for about twenty minutes before he grew tired of the game. However, when I stopped, he leaned forward into a chair and did the handstand by himself!
Today Brian spent nearly an entire Linus "session" in the chair with Linus on his leg. It was fun to watch Brian interact with our little guy for so long. Linus was happy to rest his head on Brian's tummy and coo and purr and make happy noises.
The photo with this plog entry shows a new position Linus found to sit down. I'm not sure how he got into it. He looks