Dear Santa!

Dearest, darling Santa,

How are you these days? I am fine and furthermore I am very good indeed. In the spirit of the season and to be perfectly honest I will list my good & bad behaviors over the course of 2009. You can be the judge as to whether my Christmas wishes--also listed below--will be fulfilled.

On the bad side: one or two infractions must be admitted, to wit: occasional paper eating, but it's really not my fault. Papa leaves his newsletters in tempting, easy-to-reach places. And sometimes Maman forgets to close the bathroom gate, thus permitting access to wonderful, marvelous toilet paper. What fun that is, to pull it round and round, draping it over carpets and furniture until the roll is finally all used up. But, I digress. And is it my fault if I assume that a chair pushed out at the dining table is meant for me to sit on? Finally, and perhaps worst, I'll admit to a couple (well, 3) tiny accidents indoors. But can something called an accident be considered "bad behavior?" I don't think so.

My Very Good Behavior: first I've followed your advice-- I don't shout, I don't cry, I don't pout. Ever. I'm not a picky eater. I go to bed on time. I defend the house, and Maman & Papa, vigorously. I allow Maman to put sweaters and coats and dresses on me no matter when or why. I behave graciously to guests, both dog and human. I share my toys. I have learned to follow some new commands. I always bring joy and love into the lives of Maman & Papa. I could proffer many other examples of my good behavior, both waking & sleeping, but I know you see me and frankly that you already know that I've been good, for goodness sake. So, now my list of Christmas gifts, best first, then in descending order.

For Mercury:

--Microsuede Cozy Cave in red

--a Crypton Throw pillow in papaya

--an ARFgyle bone, Christmas version

--a Pine o' Plenty interactive toy

--a Barker's Bounty Gift Bucket (small dog size)

--a 6" retro Santa toy which will remind me of you all year long

--a car seat (don't worry about this one, Santa; Maman insisted I include it on my list)

Because I am such a very very good doggie, I've agreed to include Papa's and Maman's lists too.

For Papa:

--a Mercedes (the bigger, the better and fully loaded) Please note that Papa asked for this last year to no avail. I attest on his behalf that his behavior could be catagorized as Exemplary.

--new shoes, both practical & stylish

--a custom tailored jacket and 2 custom fitted shirts

--a cashmere sweater

--a big box of gold-wrapped Christmas chocolates

For Maman:

--black cowboy boots with silver tips

--a camel hair coat

--a Burberry scarf

--Burberry perfume

--a $100 gifts certificate for iPhone apps



In conclusion, darling Santa, I love you so much. I tell everyone I know all about you, not only during the Christmas season, but all year long. I am your most faithful, loyal friend and fan. Do you read my blog during the year? I hope so. I will leave your favorite cookies & some milk on the coffee table in the living room; help yourself. And even though I know I'm supposed to be asleep when you come to our house, I will try to stay awake to welcome you to the Roushanzamir home.

I love you with all my heart, always your friend,
Mercury Murphy Roushanzamir

PS: I'd also like a new, bigger Christmas stocking. ;- D
Also, I found this delightful image of you at:

www.santaclaus.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=21...

Mercury's Breakfast

Now that I'm attending university, it's imperataive that I nourish both mind & body before embarking on my arduous day. I asked Maman to snap this shot as it exemplifies Every Morning.

Note first of all the coffee cup to my right. Maman presented it to me upon admission to school because she acquired it at a scholarly conference in New Orleans many years ago. In fact, it was a gift to her, a recognition of the value of her participation at that conference. Of course it's Papa who prepares the coffee. He uses a percolater which makes the coffee very strong and very hot. He also feeds me either buttered toast or crumpet with marmalade.

Then there're the morning papers. Because one needs to know, I first read the Athens Banner-Herald. While perhaps lacking in general news coverage and incisive editorial comment, the AB-H describes Athens happenings thoroughly indeed. The New York Times covers its deficiencies.

Luckily for me I've developed the skill of doing several things at once. For I also watch the national news on CNN and/or NBC. If you look carefully you can see the CNN logo in the background. And sometimes I choose to read a book or substitute a video (vintage Perry Mason?) for the news. You can see my dvd collection behind and to the right.

I sometimes wonder if you, my loyal fans and friends, enjoy an equally pleasurable morning each day. I can only hope that you do and that you'll take the opportunity a blog affords of sharing your experiences. Please click the Comments button below.

With my kindest regards, Mercury Murphy Roushanzamir

Mercury attends university

Friends and Fans, you may remember that I attended dog prep school some years ago. After a gap year (or two) I commited my time & energies to returning to school. I have chosen the University of Georgia-Athens and there I was welcomed with open arms as a University Fellow. University Fellows (and sisters?) are the creme de la creme of the student body. Seminar-size classes, visits from the famous and the infamous among American, European, Middle Eastern, African and Asian scholars, and trips abroad each year describe the arc of our educational experiences.

This term my courses are: film history, social psychology: dogs & man, European Intellectual history: mid to late 20th century, and medieval philosophy (part I). I hope to complete a major in modern European history with a concentration on British & French history.

I bought many books and have located others on the internet. My computer skills have certainly come in handy since so much of our coursework & research exploits the resources of the world wide web. (I must admit that the www has its distractions: youtube, blogging (!), social networking, to name only 3, etc.)

I have encountered a cadre of like-minded and like-aged students (broadening my circle away from the strictly home life) with whom I share after hours merriment. Perhaps I'll keep the specifics under wraps.

Finally I must thank Maman et Papa for funding my (re)entry into scholarship as well as the State of Georgia's Hope Scholarship and the University Fellows program.

Check back for more details & stories of my higher educational career.

Mercury debuts

I've long pursued an acting career, attending classes, studying methods, and watching actors whom I admire carefully and closely. But how could I anticipate that my debut film would win the Palme D'or at Cannes! True it may be, in part, Mama's delicate yet sophisticated direction & shooting. Papa, in the supporting role, quite ably represented his character's persona. But [and it is I in the starring role] the film's success turns on me and, the sheer power of my performance quite simply overwhelmed the distinguished judges. Presented here for the first time to a mass audience, I hope you enjoy my maiden film, Mercury at The Intermurals.

Happy Birthday

I would be remiss if I were to neglect noting that yesterday was my birthday. Birthdays can be moments of both celebration & reflection. At least such is the case for me.

I was born in the state of Idaho which is very far from my home in Athens, GA. I have forgotten my birth mom. Only my AKC registration provides a clue as to her existence [also naming my father, grandparents and great-grandparents]

My life here has its ups and downs. Papa feeds me treats at every turn, takes me out for a ride in the car every weekend, and spoils me rotten. Mama exercises and disciplines me and only afterwards does she shower me with affection. An example: the photograph pictures me in the new role Mama is trying to force on me, i.e. that of Helper Dog. [a Helper Dog is one who, contrary to all laws of dog and nature, lives to assist the chosen human, to work for her, to protect her, and etc. in exchange for which the human says "good dog."]

Despite what can only be called the "mixed bag" of living in the Roushanzamir household, my birthday was a day of rejoicing. Special care was lavished on me, special endearments, spoken. I felt truly loved, even adored [therefore not missing the cake with candles that should, rightfully, have appeared].

After Kelly: beauty & terror

Kelly (see her pictured above with Virgil) is the proprietor/master stylist of Doggie Styles, the posh salon selected by Maman et Papa for my every 6-weekly grooming. Kelly combines the qualities of a good friend --sympathy, loyalty, brains, humor-- with the finely honed skills of a beauty specialist.

Every visit to Doggie Styles comprises a wealth of experiences: bathing, trimming, manicure, comraderie with dogs & people, etc. It all sounds grand.

However: in all honesty I have admittedly mixed feelings about the 6-weekly visit to Doggie Styles. Yes, I meet old and new friends as each of us endure our cleansing rituals. Yes, I learn & continue to hone my dog socialization skills. Yes, I emerge a cleaner & prettier dog. Yes, Kelly is a wonderful woman amongst women.

But suffice to say that for at least 5 days following my visit to Doggie Styles, terror grips me. Post-salon visit & after each successive early morning walk, I rush to the Roushanzamir house door begging to be let in and begging not to be thrust into the car with Papa who might, just might, drop me at Doggie Styles on his way to work. (If it can happen once, it can happen repeatedly.)

Finally (and it may seem contrarily), let it be said that I recommend Doggie Styles (as does Maman). If you long for a superior bathe & style, call Kelly and tell her Mercury really loves her & recommends her highly.

Doggie Styles Inc

2021 S Milledge Ave
Athens, GA 30605

(706) 546-5393‎

Double Dog Darling

Here, a photograph of some of my favorite people: Sophie & Pam Kohn, grandmere Manijeh Kalantari, and my own Papa, Saeid Roushanzamir. Missing from this photo are my many Iranian relatives and (few) American relatives, Lily Kohn, and obviously my Maman who took the picture. I, of course, am at the Center.

People are frail and flawed creatures. Tender of heart, strict of practice (exercise, discipline, affection). And through it all, sanguine creatures who view optimisim as a virtue.

Perhaps because of these characteristics, Maman has created a new "pet name" for me: double dog darling.

It references a 1950s childhood practice: the double dog dare. The double dog dare is issued in an attempt to up the ante; it's not as commanding as the triple dog dare which (perhaps) exceeds the limits of polite behaviour.

In any case, calling me the double dog darling is Maman's meek attempt at humor. Yes, I'm a darling. Yes, I'm double the darlingness of most doggies. So I accept the nick-name even as I mock its origin. After all, does a dog with the name of Mercury Murphy Roushanzamir really need a pet name?

BTW, apologies to those of you await my entries eagerly and with baited breath. Writers block has held me within its viscious grip. But my thoughts are always with you (each & every one of you) as are my hopes that you're celebrating life and loving it.

Noo Ruz Goodies

My American friends & fans may not know that Noo Ruz is a time for giving gifts, especially to youngsters. I sincerely hope & trust that you will remember this next year. Gifts may include, but are not limited to, new clothing, toys, bones and other desirable objects.

Below I show off my Noo Ruz goodies which range across the spectrum of acceptable presents. For example, the newest addition to my wardrobe is this shocking pink collar. Accompanying it is a pastel pink 6-foot leash. Together their colors dazzle the eye and attract attention to, what Maman calls, "my stunning beauty." New toys are also a crucial part of the Noo Ruz celebration. Below view photos of my new ball, treat-in-the-toy, and bone.

I would call this Noo Ruz accumulation of presents a partial success. I was not given a red University of Georgia t-shirt. I only received 1 bone. True, I have a new ball, but I'd like a soccer ball as well. At least Maman did not buy me a car seat which she has been threatening to do!

So the season of spring time has been ushered in by the delightful holiday of Noo Ruz. See the photo below -- I chose to shoot the holiday flowers against the background of a world map. This is my way of proclaiming to the world: happy new year, may it bring you happiness & health, prosperity & peace.

Love to my faithful friends and fans, Mercury

Noo Ruz

Tomorrow is the Persian New Year called Noo Ruz, a happy holiday shared with friends & family. We will wear new clothes (in my case a new collar), watch the goldfish swim next to our plate of spouts, and we'll eat dill-lima bean rice & fish.

Perhaps in acknowledgment of Noo Ruz, the winds in Athens blow warmly, trees are in bloom and flowers are poking up from the ground. What a beautiful, wonderful way to celebrate the new year.

Check out other Noo Ruz ecards each of which portrays a beautiful aspect of this festival (click the link). Please check out the web site because aside from the pretty pictures you can select Persian music to accompany your ecard.

To all my fans & friends, Noo Ruz Mobarak!

The Gift

Marcel Mauss wrote The Gift, considered a classic among anthropological works, in which he studied the relation between forms of exchange and social structure. While I cannot hope to attain such privileged status, here I consider the exchange of Treats.

It's a generalization to claim that Treats are considered amongst dogs as one of the greatest items of desire. A treat is an unexpected (if longed-for) joy. When offered by Maman et Papa, I accept it in the spirit with which it is offered: love & the wish to please.

The exchange of pleasure that a Treat signifies is illustrated by the photo accompanying my entry. And, to be quite honest, the photo also illustrates a departure from Mauss' thesis. For in my life--as in the picture--, Maman et Papa offer me many Treats & I do not reciprocate. However, in the last instance, I give to my Maman et Papa a total & unconditional love, one that surpasses even the exchange of doggie Treats.