I have to share something funny with you.  Our 6-month-old beagle/mutt mix, Jackson, was standing in the middle of the living room and began to bark as if a stranger were at the door.  I turned to look at him, but noticed he wasn't facing the front door, but the cardboard stand-up of Ernest P. Worrell (the "Hey Vern, Knowhatimean" guy) next to our computer desk.  Jackson continued barking at Ernest for several minutes, much to the delight and amusement of my daughter, son, and myself.  I guess he was being a good watchdog!!  Funny thing is, the stand-up as been in that spot even longer than we have had Jackson, but it is was like he just noticed it.  I was about a foot away from Ernest at the time, so maybe Jackson was protecting me.

Melanie