Princess.

Winnie received a gift today. A gift from two dear friends of mine. The friends in question (come to think of it, they indeed *are* in question right about now) are bird hunters, outdoorsmen and fishermen. And they are bird dog people.

Well they were so proud of little Winnie's success in the show ring, that they sent us this lovely gift. A pink 'Princess' basket containing a glittery pink collar and a series of matching pink grapefruit grooming products: shampoo, a leave-in detangler and a freshen-up spritz. That's right, a pink grapefruit freshen-up spritz for dogs.

The motivation behind this not-so-subtle hint that Winnie get up to speed on the more manly pursuits - pointing birds, water retrieving, sleeping outside - is most likely jealousy. I think my buddies are afraid that, should we all be together on a hunting trip some day, Winnie will talk to their dogs. That she will tell them how she gets to hunt and swim and play, but also gets to get groomed nice and pretty and shown off to an appreciative audience. That she gets treats and ribbons and praise and to be called a Champion.

So, tease all you want. But when she points a bird for you, please admire her physique and coat. And as you pull the trigger and drop the bird, and she runs past you to retrieve your quarry, I hope you notice - mixed in with the smell of fresh gunpowder - just a hint of pink grapefruit.