Got a moment, well, let me tell ya about the day that was plus the evening that beats it all. I have started on a bottle of CAW(cheap ass whine or wine-depending on the day) and if all goes as the rest of the day has, I think I might just finish it too.
I'm sick. As in some sort of throat infection that has my glands the size of shooter marbles. My voice is mostly okay but I can't swallow, can't cough, anything hurts. Drinking is okay, eating-as long as it's something soft. I've been in a rotten mood for a few days now and it's not improving. Add in this is the last day of the month. I work in accounting, that means closing out the month, today. I didn't get my last property done till 2pm and that wasn't the last official one as two I have to keep open and two can't close until I get the word. So why so long with four not to do? College kids. That's all I have to say on the subject and August will be even more fun.
So no billings done yet, no rents deposited yet. Way behind! Did I mention that it's only a four day work week too? I leave work early as this is the last night I have to teach 4-H classes. Get home and start letting dogs out. Seems one dog decided to come in season early-good and bad. I was getting her spayed but that will now have to wait. Meredith was showing her at fair, that too will have to be passed on. But a friend needs a teaser dog for an AI collection, so she's picking her up tomorrow. But that also means letting out dogs seperately and in more then one shift.
I get Moose and Clairee ready to head to class. Now to preface this, yesterday David left early before I had a chance to get all my stuff out of his truck from errands on Sunday. My office and car keys were in the truck. I got the spares, went to work and then David brought me the other set later on so I could get in my desk. Back up a little further and my grooming box with a spare door key is in the tahoe as I haven't cleaned it out since the fun match. Following me here? So my keys are on the console between the seats. Moose and Claire in the back of the tahoe. I put a few dogs in, walk through the garage, come to the car and Moose is standing on the console---got it yet?? I have one of those nifty auto door lock gadgets. Yeap, click and the doors are locked, with all three sets of keys in the tahoe.
My phone is in my pocket, to which I start calling people--my dad first as he's a car dealer and must have some secret to get the keys out. No answer. David-where in the f are you??? Be home in 10 mins. Alec-nope, home in 45 mins. My mother-who calls my dad-duh, no answer. Calls my brother the deputy and he goes looking for dad's jimmy set. No go. Did I mention two dogs in the car, a bag of pretzels, I can see my keys, and I have to be at class in 10 mins??? By this time I started swearing and cussing and stomping around. Dogs retreated to the back seat and just watched in awe.
David gets home, we try everything. Clothes hangers, pry the door, check each door, thinking of coures we missed one. I crawl all around on the ground looking under the tahoe, thinking someone else has been in this situation before and now hides a key. Nope. We bribe Moose into the front seat. I work on my target cues-yeah he targets on the finger I'm pointing at him-need to work on that a little more later. And yes he does step on the keys and yes he does make them click-but ends up relocking the doors at least 4 more times. Again, something I seriously need to work on later.
45 mins into this insanity and my dear, lovely husband, sticks his hands in his pockets and thinks, hum, I wonder..... he has a chevy truck, few years older then the tahoe. Sticks in the truck key to the tahoe door lock and yeap, you guessed it, opens the door.
Now, at this point he figures he needs a reward. To which I say, hey Einstein, why didn't you think of this 45 mins ago!!!!!! So I hop in the tahoe, zoom off to class and am there late, super late.
We do a rally course and then play on agility equipment the rest of the night. But it only gets better.
I call Alec, hey, feed the puppies, will ya. Sure he says. 2 mins later I get a call, what's Dr Joe's number I need to ask him a turkey question. A turkey question at this time of night?? Seems that one turkey that likes to fly up at you when you feed them, is seriously the stupidest turkey around. Hello! look around you, surrounded by carnivores! Yes you guessed it, either TD(turkey dinner) or TJ(turkey jerky) landed in the middle of 5 cardigans and one large GSD. They thought it was Christmas.
It's got lacerations to it's thigh, it's neck, wings and one leg. From what I am getting out of the story, it just laid in a pile in the yard and it's eyes swiveled around. Alec thought, let's just put it out of it's misery now. David can't find the hatchet so goes and gets the trusty shot gun. For those unaware of the past events with David and his trust shotgun, he's only allowed to have turkey shot in it-very appropriate for right now. But as they look at it, they decide to give it a few minutes. David offers it some food, which it tries to take off his hand. Yeap it's good. So after a call to Dr Joe, the wounds are cleaned out with chlorehixidine, it's now residing in one of the indoor dog runs in the garage with its pal, the othe turkey. It's eating and drinking and moving around. Will clean out the wounds twice a day and watch for infection. What I won't do for a turkey dinner.
Want one more event??? How about the mallards that decided to join the domestic ducks for dinner tonight??? Yes indeed, as the other ducks were being fed, two mallards flew by, then dropped in for a snack. Ate, wandered around a little then flew down to the creek.
Okay, let's recap-sick, truck, keys, dogs, class, turkeys, ducks and just waiting for the other shoe to drop........
Later gators....
C
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
I hate technology
Ugh, old servers are the worst. Never know when you can get on or not, what will post and what won't. Could do a darn thing but read email yesterday. Couldn't even send some emails till late yesterday.
I am happy to report that yes, Kim did survive the concert with the kids on Sunday night. Nick and Meredith went to see Taylor Swift and Keith Urban. Actually they went to see Taylor Swift, left when Keith came on stage. Now nothing against Keith, but both kids are crazy Taylor Swift fans. After a good long sleep, they went to the park with Ella yesterday(see Ella's post on Kim's blog) and as I type Kim is in the boat with a sweatshirt on while Nick and Meredith are out on the tube, running down the mighty Mississippi. Goodness they have to be cold, but alas, they are young also.
On our way down to Kim's on Saturday we kind of ran into what is becoming typical for any of our road trips-bad weather. Any of you in eastern Iowa or Western IL that experienced the storms late Saturday will know exactly what I am talking about. We drove to it, through it and then out of it, with just enough time to turn south and get hit once again by 70-80 mph winds, rain, hail and I couldn't see the road. Thank God for bluffs. That section of open road on 67 just past the Wapsi was white knuckle. I wasn't sure we would make it! Nick met us at the drive, telling us that the sirens had just gone off too. Yippee. Funny part was 45 mins earlier I called Kim to tell us where we were at, to which she commented it's sunny and bright here at Princeton Beach, and I said, not for long. They had a heck of a ride back to beat the storm, luckily they did, just as the hail followed them down the river.
For those curious about puppies-they are eating more gruel, have the run of the house at night and Eddie's in heaven with someone to play with. I will try to get more pictures up tomorrow night.
Last but not least, Alec had the pleasure of helping finish Bear's championship this weekend. That's #2 champion for our Margie!! Frank shouldn't be far behind needing that one little point and Dove will be hitting the ring again in August. Rogue should be back out later this summer also. The shock of the weekend was Alec getting a 3pt major on Merlot. I still don't believe it but won't go further on that either. I guess she was in prime form and even with the tent rocking due to the wind, she and Krissy ignored it and rough housed all over. It was a pleasant and quiet weekend without her at home. Seriously, my ears and voice needed a break. We all just love yelling-"Merlot-stop that" or "I swear, I'll debark you myself in about 10 seconds if you don't SHUT UP!" She is full of it, all the time and sometimes, ya just need a break. The collies have gotten to the point of sitting on her when she gets to be too much ;0) But you know, she tolerates every thing you throw at her and is one of the most willing obedience dogs I have. Now to find the time between training Moose, Lace and Frankie, to fit her training in.
Later gators....
C
I am happy to report that yes, Kim did survive the concert with the kids on Sunday night. Nick and Meredith went to see Taylor Swift and Keith Urban. Actually they went to see Taylor Swift, left when Keith came on stage. Now nothing against Keith, but both kids are crazy Taylor Swift fans. After a good long sleep, they went to the park with Ella yesterday(see Ella's post on Kim's blog) and as I type Kim is in the boat with a sweatshirt on while Nick and Meredith are out on the tube, running down the mighty Mississippi. Goodness they have to be cold, but alas, they are young also.
On our way down to Kim's on Saturday we kind of ran into what is becoming typical for any of our road trips-bad weather. Any of you in eastern Iowa or Western IL that experienced the storms late Saturday will know exactly what I am talking about. We drove to it, through it and then out of it, with just enough time to turn south and get hit once again by 70-80 mph winds, rain, hail and I couldn't see the road. Thank God for bluffs. That section of open road on 67 just past the Wapsi was white knuckle. I wasn't sure we would make it! Nick met us at the drive, telling us that the sirens had just gone off too. Yippee. Funny part was 45 mins earlier I called Kim to tell us where we were at, to which she commented it's sunny and bright here at Princeton Beach, and I said, not for long. They had a heck of a ride back to beat the storm, luckily they did, just as the hail followed them down the river.
For those curious about puppies-they are eating more gruel, have the run of the house at night and Eddie's in heaven with someone to play with. I will try to get more pictures up tomorrow night.
Last but not least, Alec had the pleasure of helping finish Bear's championship this weekend. That's #2 champion for our Margie!! Frank shouldn't be far behind needing that one little point and Dove will be hitting the ring again in August. Rogue should be back out later this summer also. The shock of the weekend was Alec getting a 3pt major on Merlot. I still don't believe it but won't go further on that either. I guess she was in prime form and even with the tent rocking due to the wind, she and Krissy ignored it and rough housed all over. It was a pleasant and quiet weekend without her at home. Seriously, my ears and voice needed a break. We all just love yelling-"Merlot-stop that" or "I swear, I'll debark you myself in about 10 seconds if you don't SHUT UP!" She is full of it, all the time and sometimes, ya just need a break. The collies have gotten to the point of sitting on her when she gets to be too much ;0) But you know, she tolerates every thing you throw at her and is one of the most willing obedience dogs I have. Now to find the time between training Moose, Lace and Frankie, to fit her training in.
Later gators....
C
Friday, June 26, 2009
Flower power
Yeah!!! The daylilies are starting to bloom now! Here's a shot of one of the early varieties and one side of the row. We have about 20 different kinds and the goal is to add a row behind the original row, each year. Eventually the area to the right of the drive and in front of the fence will be full of daylilies. We have some that have awesome fragrances as well as some doubles, huge singles and small dwarfs. I don't the really common Stella D'Oro's as I honestly don't like them.
Oh and a photo of one of the pansy pots.
Later gators....
C
Dinner time
Last night was the first official solid food for the prisioners. They have been trying to climb in Shooter's food dish-hung high on the side of the xpen and drinking out of her water bucket-much to her dismay. So out came the gruel.
I start them out with baby rice cereal and goat's milk. Make a loose paste and let them have at it. In a few days I will make it a little thicker and start adding protein-usually finally ground turkey or chicken or if time is essential, baby food chicken. By the end of next week we will start adding soaked and mashed puppy food. With cardigans, I use the Pro Plan large breed puppy and by 8-9 weeks have graduated them to the Adult Chicken and Rice.
And on that subject, Purina loose a lot of my trust and business with their shredded food fiasco this last year. Thank GOD they brought the tried and true good formula back, just in time for this litter. But it was a bad 9 mos for the rest of the dogs as I tried to find a food that would keep weight on, hold coat and that they would eat. My only HUGE complaint is that you can only find the C&R in a few stores now and that the price has gone up almost $9 a bag. Around here at Petsmart it's $41 a bag-ugh. Believe it or not, it's more expensive then the Professional formula, which I don't get at all. I worked in the feed business for 10 years and know that a lower protein formula is cheaper to make. Also add in that they only do one size now-no biggy for me, but that also cuts costs.
So here's puppies first dinner....
Later gators....
C
Thursday, June 25, 2009
speaking,talking, reading, writing
I must admit that the inventor of spell check needs to be sainted. I don't know where I would be without it. I have a super duper version of it on my work computer and I will say that I am just a tad bit spoiled. I do miss-spell, mostly when I am typing fast or of course when my hands are on the keyboard wrong. But what I don't understand is why people don't use the tools given to them. I read so many blogs or surf websites and see horrible spelling, red neck grammar and just simple unprofessional comments.
Now think about this, usually how people write is just how they talk or talking=writing. One of my favorites is the use of "don'ts do" something. And yes, I can honestly say that I have heard someone talk just like that. I feel it's caused not by a lack of education, but lack of self awareness or even a lack of care.
In order to present a professional image, especially when you have a public website or blog, people, people, people, watch what you type! This is now a media where face to face interaction sometimes never happens. Business is transacted with email, tweeter, text or facebook. What a person reads or sees on the Internet, forms the very first impression that they have of you--good or bad. How do you expect someone to take you seriously if you don't act in a business like manner? Grammar and spelling but also what your site says. Sayings, words, comments will either turn someone off or even worse, make them think you have hidden agendas, personal vendettas or in all reality, not a clue about the world around you. Does that make them want to trust you? More then likely not. And many times it just reinforces what they have heard about you.
Boys and girls, time to go back to grade school! First impressions can make or break you-listen to what you say, read what you write, and speak knowing the world is listening.
Oh and yes, I did run spell check before posting this. ;0)
Later gators.....
C
Now think about this, usually how people write is just how they talk or talking=writing. One of my favorites is the use of "don'ts do" something. And yes, I can honestly say that I have heard someone talk just like that. I feel it's caused not by a lack of education, but lack of self awareness or even a lack of care.
In order to present a professional image, especially when you have a public website or blog, people, people, people, watch what you type! This is now a media where face to face interaction sometimes never happens. Business is transacted with email, tweeter, text or facebook. What a person reads or sees on the Internet, forms the very first impression that they have of you--good or bad. How do you expect someone to take you seriously if you don't act in a business like manner? Grammar and spelling but also what your site says. Sayings, words, comments will either turn someone off or even worse, make them think you have hidden agendas, personal vendettas or in all reality, not a clue about the world around you. Does that make them want to trust you? More then likely not. And many times it just reinforces what they have heard about you.
Boys and girls, time to go back to grade school! First impressions can make or break you-listen to what you say, read what you write, and speak knowing the world is listening.
Oh and yes, I did run spell check before posting this. ;0)
Later gators.....
C
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Panic attack
A mother's work is never done, seriously. Even as they are old enough to fly the coop or at least make their own life decisions, you stand by to help if needed. Just ask Margie. Down at the MO shows a few weeks ago, Mama Marg made it her mission to whip the kids back in shape. At one point she had all the kids-Russ, Ella, Shaker, even Frankie, cornered under the chair at the front of the RV. Yes indeed, she stomped her foot and they all went-Yes Ma'am!
So driving into work today, I have a panic attack. Just down the highway, next road(Austin Rd-one of the other routes I take to the Hwy) is an accident. I slow down, get in the left lane and as I slowly drive by, look at a car, a red car that had some how managed to flip over. Wish I knew how they did it, as the only thing I can think of is it hit the bridge. But red car. Alec drives a red car, had left about a 1/2 hour before and drives the same route to work. PANIC ATTACK! As I try to see the type of car, while still driving, finding my cell phone and not get in accident myself, I dial his number. Pick up, Pick up, Pick up. And yes, he did and yes he did make it into work and yes, he did drive past the accident. Thanks, have a great day, see you tonight. Hang up phone and have shaking hands grip steering wheel.
A mother's work is just never done. Always worry about them, look after them and thank God for them each and every day.
Later gators.....
C
So driving into work today, I have a panic attack. Just down the highway, next road(Austin Rd-one of the other routes I take to the Hwy) is an accident. I slow down, get in the left lane and as I slowly drive by, look at a car, a red car that had some how managed to flip over. Wish I knew how they did it, as the only thing I can think of is it hit the bridge. But red car. Alec drives a red car, had left about a 1/2 hour before and drives the same route to work. PANIC ATTACK! As I try to see the type of car, while still driving, finding my cell phone and not get in accident myself, I dial his number. Pick up, Pick up, Pick up. And yes, he did and yes he did make it into work and yes, he did drive past the accident. Thanks, have a great day, see you tonight. Hang up phone and have shaking hands grip steering wheel.
A mother's work is just never done. Always worry about them, look after them and thank God for them each and every day.
Later gators.....
C
Monday, June 22, 2009
Outside for a change?
You just can't go outside this week as the humidity and heat will get you in no time flat. Heat Advisory in store for tomorrow. So about the only time we can go out without breaking a sweat is in the late evening. Just a few shots of the garden tonight. My heirloom lettuce-been having some awesome salads and I really like that speckled variety. Then Meredith's challenge crop-not much of a challenge if you ask me-broccoli. It's coming along well.
Later gators....
C
C
A Turner around story
You know how sometimes dogs come into your lives and you don't understand why until much later? I've had a few-Jack, Carly and now Turner.
Turner is a beautiful blue merle smooth collie with the ability to love to no end, and a heart of a chicken. There is no doubt in my mind that had some of the events of his life been different, he would be a totally different dog. Something when he was young and not with me, caused him to doubt, yes I think that is a good word, doubt the trustworthiness of people. It's a shame that he had that happen and it really changed the way I trust people and who I let deal with my dogs. Sad part is it's still happening to other dogs.
Turner doesn't go out a lot unless I can really concentrate on working with him and spend lots of my attention on him. In public he is nervous, but very reliable in obedience. He tolerates the attention he gets but looks at me with a panic in his eyes that says when can we leave---NOW??!! All too typical flight dog. When we have company, he usually ends up in his crate in the bedroom with the door shut, otherwise you have to deal with the pacing and the panic that he thinks someone might touch him. But this weekend was an OMG moment!
As you know, we had dinner up here with our good friends-The Gibsons and Mummes, on Saturday night. Kathy spent some time outside with the dogs and Turner did his usual bark and observe a ten or twenty foot perimeter between him and any person. Well, he was within 5 feet of her all the time-but still had the don't touch me look. So he came inside when the game got a little too much for him-ie, chase the collie, followed by 20 some corgis hot on his tail. AND AND AND......within 5 minutes he was laying down in the middle of everyone. Kim got to pet him, then he got all googly and wanted everyone to scratch his butt. I was about in tears--he had finally decided to trust someone else other then the four of us!!!!! What a milestone for my Turner Burner! He was great all the rest of the evening with everyone in the house. No freak and runs, super pacing or omg moments.
Makes me feel as though time is what he needs and that's what he will get. Hoping that at some point he can find a home of his own, but until then, he's my best bud and making huge strides.
Later gators....
C
C
Pupdates
Hoping to be able to have more regular installments of this feature but man, it's been busy around here.
For those eager for news, the prisoners caused a jail break on Sunday morning as I was getting ready to go to the Iowa City show. So it's time to release them to general population. I move them to the study, which for those of you that know my house, the south side is an open floor plan, with the door to the back yard on the study end. Lots and lots of noise, dishes and pots banging, blenders, vacuums, doors slamming, dogs barking. You name it, they get exposed to it.
Also by this age, they regulate their body temperature on their own. Which is funny because the a/c vent is right by the xpen. The way the weather has been here, we definately appreciate central air. And so do the pupplets. They tend to lay right by the vent. Smart puppies.
No formal photos this week, so some candids to post. They are also on the website under week 4.
Later gators....
C
The one point club
What a weekend! Good friends, good food and great conversation. Wait, I think that was last weekend too? At least this weekend it wasn't the Beverly Hillbillies look alike contest. Though we did seem to have the same amount of rain.
Friday night Alec went down, met up with Bekka and Sherilyn, set up and then he and Bekka brought 1/2 the Winjammin crew to our house for the weekend. Duchess is not impressed with our back yard and the hooligans that inhabit it. She's certain she's supposed to be in the front yard but to keep the peace, she had no choice but backyarding it. On the other hand, Dreamy was just in heaven with her current crush-Moose. Those two were inseperable all weekend. Wrong colors but oh well, they can play for now.
Saturday was hot, humid with the chances of bad weather looming. I think we were all melting, at 9am in the morning! It was Ella's first show and she did very well, though Kim thought she forgot all that she had learned in class and at home. She was in the same class with her sister Sterling. Kim F and Grace went on to win WB, with Cindy and Tana RWB. In the boys, Frankie was 1st in BBE, Bear 2nd. Dougal went on to take a much needed major WD, Frankie took Reserve. Mary's lovely black boy Raider was BOB.
We hung around to watch a few other breeds, cheer on Tammy in pems(didn't help though-let's not even get into that judging.) then it was get the heck out of Dodge and go home where it's cool!
Everyone came up that evening for dinner and to squeeze puppies. As it would happen, Saturday morning as I was doing my makeup, I looked over to see puppies with their feet up on the side of the pool, then plunk, over they went. Jail break at the worst time but it also meant it was time to relocate the criminals to the study. They weren't to upset, their mother was though. Heehee, I locked her in the xpen with them, which in turn meant she had no means of escape. She's not happy right now.
So everyone picks out the same puppy-Connie. I see a fight going on over her. Should be interesting but overall, they are all nice and coming along well.
Alec and Bekka left for a movie, Rus and Sherilyn, David and I sat and watched a DVD while the dogs--all of them, romped in the front yard. They lounged in the pool, barked at the ducks, played tag and were tired doggies at the end of the night. Everyone slept well.
Sunday dawns with an ugly four lettered word-Rain. Ugh. It rained off and on all weekend. Which meant carrying dogs to and from the grooming to the building. Someone gave me heck for carrying Frankie-thank God he isn't heavier-to which I said, he's heavy enough. At least we were in the main building where the lighting was better and the floors were dry. Connie had gone to Karen Johnson's funeral so Kim F had brought all but her BBE dog. I got to show the super cute Sterling. We won our class! and she was a very well behaved puppy. The judge even looked at our class and shook her head-now isn't this going to be a fun class. After our first go around, she said 1st one up on the table, the rest of you relax and go play in the corner-too funny. Frankie came away with WD/BOW for his second major, officially entering him in the One Point Club. And as it usually happens, it might be forever for him to get that one point. Bear was RWD. Cindy and Tana got their 2nd major with WB. Sulley was pulled out of mothballs and was BOB. Doggone old dogs anyway.
And it rained. And rained and the pems and GSD's were in an outside ring. And it rained. Alec showed Sheryl's french for WB/BOW and I think BOS. Taffy is a super cute little girl and fiesty. Looks like Alec might be picking up another dog to handle this summer too-just what I need in the house, a Frenchie. I helped with Ibizian hounds and took BOB with DB. And it rained. And it was hot and humid and sticky and it rained. Pems were outside. Much better judging today-Tammy was BOB with her open bitch. The comment of the weekend was too perfect--someone asked Tammy why her dog wasn't as muddy as the rest, to which she replied, maybe it's because mine moves better then the rest. We all rolled at that one--good one Tammy.
Tammy and Sunny went on to a Group 3 and Sunny is now in the 2pt club. As the heat just got worse, we all broke camp, headed home and well, waited for it to rain again. Went around us, go figure. But the temps are in the 90's this week with heat indexes in the 100-105 rang. YUCK!
We are now off for many weekends as it's county fair time. Then it's just a few weeks to defrag the brain and get ready for the fall shows. Fall already?? It just turned to Summer yesterday!
Small plug here---the CRKA/Linn Cty 4-H fun match is this upcoming weekend-----if anyone would like to help out with judging or just helping out, please contact me!!!! The weather and health issues have wiped out many people who usually help us.
I'm also looking for someone to judge obedience at the Linn Cty Fair--anyone??? It's a paying gig too!!!
Later gators....
C
Friday night Alec went down, met up with Bekka and Sherilyn, set up and then he and Bekka brought 1/2 the Winjammin crew to our house for the weekend. Duchess is not impressed with our back yard and the hooligans that inhabit it. She's certain she's supposed to be in the front yard but to keep the peace, she had no choice but backyarding it. On the other hand, Dreamy was just in heaven with her current crush-Moose. Those two were inseperable all weekend. Wrong colors but oh well, they can play for now.
Saturday was hot, humid with the chances of bad weather looming. I think we were all melting, at 9am in the morning! It was Ella's first show and she did very well, though Kim thought she forgot all that she had learned in class and at home. She was in the same class with her sister Sterling. Kim F and Grace went on to win WB, with Cindy and Tana RWB. In the boys, Frankie was 1st in BBE, Bear 2nd. Dougal went on to take a much needed major WD, Frankie took Reserve. Mary's lovely black boy Raider was BOB.
We hung around to watch a few other breeds, cheer on Tammy in pems(didn't help though-let's not even get into that judging.) then it was get the heck out of Dodge and go home where it's cool!
Everyone came up that evening for dinner and to squeeze puppies. As it would happen, Saturday morning as I was doing my makeup, I looked over to see puppies with their feet up on the side of the pool, then plunk, over they went. Jail break at the worst time but it also meant it was time to relocate the criminals to the study. They weren't to upset, their mother was though. Heehee, I locked her in the xpen with them, which in turn meant she had no means of escape. She's not happy right now.
So everyone picks out the same puppy-Connie. I see a fight going on over her. Should be interesting but overall, they are all nice and coming along well.
Alec and Bekka left for a movie, Rus and Sherilyn, David and I sat and watched a DVD while the dogs--all of them, romped in the front yard. They lounged in the pool, barked at the ducks, played tag and were tired doggies at the end of the night. Everyone slept well.
Sunday dawns with an ugly four lettered word-Rain. Ugh. It rained off and on all weekend. Which meant carrying dogs to and from the grooming to the building. Someone gave me heck for carrying Frankie-thank God he isn't heavier-to which I said, he's heavy enough. At least we were in the main building where the lighting was better and the floors were dry. Connie had gone to Karen Johnson's funeral so Kim F had brought all but her BBE dog. I got to show the super cute Sterling. We won our class! and she was a very well behaved puppy. The judge even looked at our class and shook her head-now isn't this going to be a fun class. After our first go around, she said 1st one up on the table, the rest of you relax and go play in the corner-too funny. Frankie came away with WD/BOW for his second major, officially entering him in the One Point Club. And as it usually happens, it might be forever for him to get that one point. Bear was RWD. Cindy and Tana got their 2nd major with WB. Sulley was pulled out of mothballs and was BOB. Doggone old dogs anyway.
And it rained. And rained and the pems and GSD's were in an outside ring. And it rained. Alec showed Sheryl's french for WB/BOW and I think BOS. Taffy is a super cute little girl and fiesty. Looks like Alec might be picking up another dog to handle this summer too-just what I need in the house, a Frenchie. I helped with Ibizian hounds and took BOB with DB. And it rained. And it was hot and humid and sticky and it rained. Pems were outside. Much better judging today-Tammy was BOB with her open bitch. The comment of the weekend was too perfect--someone asked Tammy why her dog wasn't as muddy as the rest, to which she replied, maybe it's because mine moves better then the rest. We all rolled at that one--good one Tammy.
Tammy and Sunny went on to a Group 3 and Sunny is now in the 2pt club. As the heat just got worse, we all broke camp, headed home and well, waited for it to rain again. Went around us, go figure. But the temps are in the 90's this week with heat indexes in the 100-105 rang. YUCK!
We are now off for many weekends as it's county fair time. Then it's just a few weeks to defrag the brain and get ready for the fall shows. Fall already?? It just turned to Summer yesterday!
Small plug here---the CRKA/Linn Cty 4-H fun match is this upcoming weekend-----if anyone would like to help out with judging or just helping out, please contact me!!!! The weather and health issues have wiped out many people who usually help us.
I'm also looking for someone to judge obedience at the Linn Cty Fair--anyone??? It's a paying gig too!!!
Later gators....
C
Sunday, June 14, 2009
What a weekend!
Okay, it started out a little crappy--rain, rain, rain, rain and well, more rain. Ever set up a tent in the rain? Not me ;0) The other hooligans did. We had gone to the Fort Dodge Shows this weekend and well, it seems like a trend. The last time we were there, we drove through a severe thunderstorm/tornado.
So it's wet, the rain did stop but not till later in the evening. Make for soggy show grounds the next day. Bekka and Kim were prepared though with super cute mud boots. After straigtening out the chaos from the night before, it was time to groom. The one perfect thing about this weekend was that we had 12:30ish ring times. Oh to sleep in, not rush and enjoy the day. The other unfortunate effect of the rain was that Meredith and David had stayed home to go to a horse show but 1" of rain in the arena canceled it. Bummer, she's been working really hard to get ready for it too.
So back to the dog show. We weren't sure after the chaos was rearranged if we were looking more like professional handlers with our string of dogs or the Beverly Hill Billies. More on what we decided later. Grooming was attended to and off we go, too many dogs and not enough hands. Alec enlisted Sheryl from frenchie fame and handed her the infamous Russ. Frankie, Justin, Krissy, Merlot and Boo also towed along behind. Now Alec is showing a new dog, Justin. I love him to pieces and he's really coming along, but he's blowing coat! Hair is every where on every one and every other dog. What a mess. But in the end it was a good first weekend for him. Frankie and I took WD/BOW, our good friend Cindy and her girl Tanna took WB and Russ was BOB.
Now let's talk about Russ a little. He's a character and we feel has multiple personalities at times. Somedays it's the inner puppy he's channeling and goes by the name Ruff Ruff. Other times it's the horribly evil teenage dog called Rosario and then there's the newest persona-Hugh Ruffner---hot stuff extrodinare. Let's say he's figured out what girls are and he's not above flirting with each and everyone of them-two or four legged! Just ask Bekka, he's in love with her. The call for the weekend was the Hugh Ruffner was in the building and he was strutten his stuff--all the way to a group 3!!!! I don't think it hurt that Kim had cooked Rib Eye for him either-Alec and Russ were well feed.
So back to the RV to chill, eat, drink and be merry. Kim's a great cook and the best pet owner I could ever ask for. We had pork plus tons of other food to keep us full all night long. Rus, Sherilyn, Kim, Kathy, Nick and I kept eating and drinking around the fire while Alec and Bekka took off to dinner and movie. Being in the company of good friends beat the rain any day.
Sunday dawns with rain clouds in the distance. Once again, Thank You ONOFRIO, for the 12:30 ring time but I only ask that in the next few shows that if you could, schedule Novice B obedience at a time other then when cardigans and pems show-yeap, once again I had to ditch Moose's CD work to show Frankie. Oh well, one of these days.... It did start raining again, but we all got under the awning and enjoyed a lazy Sunday morning-including Kim's Sunday paper. Groom, go and show-same as the day before but the LS puppy-Merlot took RWB, considering this time she decided it was time to play show dog, not obedience dog, and stood nice, gave ears and it was almost impossible to keep up with her on the go rounds-that girl can move!! Frankie is WD/BOW-now just needing a major to finish. Bekka was once again a good luck charm and Russ took BOB. Nothing in group, it was all big hairy dogs this time around. But congrats to Leslie, Marla and Paul on their wins this weekend! Again, great group of friends.
Now back to the decision on what we really are. Yeap, Beverly Hill Billies seems to fit better then anything else. Kim had brought out a frying pan and spoon and was using it to make noise to distract the barking dogs( bottle of NO was not working by then), then the chaos of tarps and tents didn't help matters much. We promised to work on being more professional the next time around and should be easier as we now know what not to do--as in set up in the rain!
Thanks guys--I know I missed even more fun last weekend and promise to not miss too many more in the future. Now it's back home, dogs are super happy as they can get muddy and wet for awhile and not have to be show dogs. Frank is already brown not red ;0)
Hope everyone else had a great weekend---summer is here!!!
Later gators...
C
So it's wet, the rain did stop but not till later in the evening. Make for soggy show grounds the next day. Bekka and Kim were prepared though with super cute mud boots. After straigtening out the chaos from the night before, it was time to groom. The one perfect thing about this weekend was that we had 12:30ish ring times. Oh to sleep in, not rush and enjoy the day. The other unfortunate effect of the rain was that Meredith and David had stayed home to go to a horse show but 1" of rain in the arena canceled it. Bummer, she's been working really hard to get ready for it too.
So back to the dog show. We weren't sure after the chaos was rearranged if we were looking more like professional handlers with our string of dogs or the Beverly Hill Billies. More on what we decided later. Grooming was attended to and off we go, too many dogs and not enough hands. Alec enlisted Sheryl from frenchie fame and handed her the infamous Russ. Frankie, Justin, Krissy, Merlot and Boo also towed along behind. Now Alec is showing a new dog, Justin. I love him to pieces and he's really coming along, but he's blowing coat! Hair is every where on every one and every other dog. What a mess. But in the end it was a good first weekend for him. Frankie and I took WD/BOW, our good friend Cindy and her girl Tanna took WB and Russ was BOB.
Now let's talk about Russ a little. He's a character and we feel has multiple personalities at times. Somedays it's the inner puppy he's channeling and goes by the name Ruff Ruff. Other times it's the horribly evil teenage dog called Rosario and then there's the newest persona-Hugh Ruffner---hot stuff extrodinare. Let's say he's figured out what girls are and he's not above flirting with each and everyone of them-two or four legged! Just ask Bekka, he's in love with her. The call for the weekend was the Hugh Ruffner was in the building and he was strutten his stuff--all the way to a group 3!!!! I don't think it hurt that Kim had cooked Rib Eye for him either-Alec and Russ were well feed.
So back to the RV to chill, eat, drink and be merry. Kim's a great cook and the best pet owner I could ever ask for. We had pork plus tons of other food to keep us full all night long. Rus, Sherilyn, Kim, Kathy, Nick and I kept eating and drinking around the fire while Alec and Bekka took off to dinner and movie. Being in the company of good friends beat the rain any day.
Sunday dawns with rain clouds in the distance. Once again, Thank You ONOFRIO, for the 12:30 ring time but I only ask that in the next few shows that if you could, schedule Novice B obedience at a time other then when cardigans and pems show-yeap, once again I had to ditch Moose's CD work to show Frankie. Oh well, one of these days.... It did start raining again, but we all got under the awning and enjoyed a lazy Sunday morning-including Kim's Sunday paper. Groom, go and show-same as the day before but the LS puppy-Merlot took RWB, considering this time she decided it was time to play show dog, not obedience dog, and stood nice, gave ears and it was almost impossible to keep up with her on the go rounds-that girl can move!! Frankie is WD/BOW-now just needing a major to finish. Bekka was once again a good luck charm and Russ took BOB. Nothing in group, it was all big hairy dogs this time around. But congrats to Leslie, Marla and Paul on their wins this weekend! Again, great group of friends.
Now back to the decision on what we really are. Yeap, Beverly Hill Billies seems to fit better then anything else. Kim had brought out a frying pan and spoon and was using it to make noise to distract the barking dogs( bottle of NO was not working by then), then the chaos of tarps and tents didn't help matters much. We promised to work on being more professional the next time around and should be easier as we now know what not to do--as in set up in the rain!
Thanks guys--I know I missed even more fun last weekend and promise to not miss too many more in the future. Now it's back home, dogs are super happy as they can get muddy and wet for awhile and not have to be show dogs. Frank is already brown not red ;0)
Hope everyone else had a great weekend---summer is here!!!
Later gators...
C
Thursday, June 11, 2009
New residents
Okay, so the picture is a little red but look who's arrived, finally! Part of the reason for the late arrival is that these are the show ducks, not the plain old ducks that they hatch out early in the season.
Later gators....
C
The Museum
Right across from Greene Square Park is the Museum of Art. It's in the old Carniege Library building and was effected by the flood-wait for more photos tomorrow to show just how far away from the river it is! Anyway, they have an awesome collection of Grant Wood and Marvin Cone. One of my lunch time destinations. This photo is of the addition to the main building on the west.
Later gators....
C
C
Walk downtown
Promised myself that I would start taking a camera with me as I walk around during lunch. So for the first of the photos. I'm going to try to get some of the flood recovery, then the eateries(some great food down here), the sculptures and of course, the people!
The City of Cedar Rapids is holding events this week to mark the flood of 08. Happened for 6 days last year from June 6th to the 12th when the water crested. I'll mark some of the water levels tomorrow. Anyway, in Greene Square Park is a musical event they are calling FloodStock 09, with proceeds to go to the flood recovery. They hired a sand artist to do this huge sculpture in the park and he's been working on it all week long.We have been taking walks during the day down the block to watch the artist at work. He's awesome to watch. We especially loved his singing catfish - notice the detail and well, how well endowed the one is:0)
Yeah, she's got a tough job
Caught in the act of loafing-silly girl. And yes, the goal is to get new pics up on the website tonight-between washing three dogs, packing and cleaning house. Their eyes are all open but yet to have the first bark at me when I walk in the door. I bet it happens to David while I am gone this weekend.
Later gators..
C
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
It's official!
Summer is hear. Talking with Kim this last weekend and hearing that Rosario was eating lightening bugs-ewww, I kept watching out the window to see some up here. Last night about 11ish, I saw my first one buzz by the bedroom window! Add to that the following plant is now in full flower(one of my all time favorite plants) and yes it's officiall summer in Iowa. Granted, it's a little chilly but hey, no need for wadders.
Later gators...
C
Monday, June 8, 2009
A year ago
It's hard to imagine that not only a year ago we had new puppies in the house, but that my community was in a state of emergency, like we have never seen before. Yes that's right, just a year ago the Flood of 08 hit Cedar Rapids and surrounding communities. The entire downtown was under water. 500 year flood plains were memories as the water went above and beyond them.
My current office had not only a full basement of water and lost thousands of real estate records covering decades in the town, but there was 2 1/2 feet of water on the first floor. At the time I worked about 20 blocks from the down town at another company, but we were still affected. Our off site tech company went down, we lost power on our grid for a day or so, water was rationed as the city, though under flood waters, had only one pump providing water for the city and that was only working at 65% capacity. The city of Marion had pumper trucks from the fire dept, directing water from Marion to CR via the fire hydrants.
I had some time off so went and worked at the emergency animal shelter. I helped coordinate with our kennel association's president, the AKC and other agencies response to the flooding in both Cedar Rapids and Iowa City.
The Gazette has some really good stories, photos and reflections at the following link:
http://www.gazetteonline.com/section/flood
What does amaze me is the commitment that so many people have to keeping Cedar Rapids their home. I live in the county, always have but for 7 years-learned city life is not for me. Grew up a farm girl, but still consider Cedar Rapids and Marion my home. Many people just up and left, absolutely no want to stay or even to help build. I actually feel sorry for many of them as they might feel that they lost all but don't realize that they also lost a community when they abandoned their homes. Then there are those that are staying and fighting. There are a couple kids that I teach in 4-H that have been majorly affected. It still amazes me at their resilence. I think it made them better kids and they will be stronger for it. Though I wouldn't honestly wish it on anyone.
There are tons of photos out there, I'm still looking for the link that shows what the Island looked like before, during and after. That for sure will make you go WOW. As I reflect, the moments that I remember most as seeing the Czech Museum with it's lovely red roof-and that's all you see above the flood waters. That just means that behind it, all of Czech Village is under water. Or the gas tanks floating down river-yes underground storage tanks that popped out of the ground! Then there's the fire dept water rescue boats going up and down the streets of the down town, where people and cars should be.
Afterwards it's the piles of debris-belongings, trash and just plain crap that litter the streets, in the businesses, houses, parks, you name it. When you drove downtown the force of the water pulled up the asphalt, the bricks on the sidewalks and moved huge cement planters. In the residental neighborhoods, houses were off their foundations, feet of toxic muck covered everything and waterlines showed you daily just how high the water was.
A year later, many have rebuilt, many more have left. Some houses look brand new, some are slated for demolition. Boarded up buinesses sit next to others that proudly display their "We're Back" banners. It's amazing what has changed, but what has stayed the same.
Not something I wish on anyone but if it had to happen, it did so in the right community. It was commented in emails that unlike many other natural disasters, the communities in Iowa didn't sit and wait, complain about the lack of national help, Iowans just pulled up their boots and started rebuilding on their own. The amount of governmental disaster aid is much less then other disasters, though the end cost is much higher. We didn't sit on our hands waiting for handouts, but got right back to work. It is said that it will take 10 years to get back to normal, what ever that is now. But it only took a few days for the real Cedar Rapids to show itself, with people committed to returning.
That's why I love Iowa-we are just that, committed and proud of who we are.
Later gators...
C
My current office had not only a full basement of water and lost thousands of real estate records covering decades in the town, but there was 2 1/2 feet of water on the first floor. At the time I worked about 20 blocks from the down town at another company, but we were still affected. Our off site tech company went down, we lost power on our grid for a day or so, water was rationed as the city, though under flood waters, had only one pump providing water for the city and that was only working at 65% capacity. The city of Marion had pumper trucks from the fire dept, directing water from Marion to CR via the fire hydrants.
I had some time off so went and worked at the emergency animal shelter. I helped coordinate with our kennel association's president, the AKC and other agencies response to the flooding in both Cedar Rapids and Iowa City.
The Gazette has some really good stories, photos and reflections at the following link:
http://www.gazetteonline.com/section/flood
What does amaze me is the commitment that so many people have to keeping Cedar Rapids their home. I live in the county, always have but for 7 years-learned city life is not for me. Grew up a farm girl, but still consider Cedar Rapids and Marion my home. Many people just up and left, absolutely no want to stay or even to help build. I actually feel sorry for many of them as they might feel that they lost all but don't realize that they also lost a community when they abandoned their homes. Then there are those that are staying and fighting. There are a couple kids that I teach in 4-H that have been majorly affected. It still amazes me at their resilence. I think it made them better kids and they will be stronger for it. Though I wouldn't honestly wish it on anyone.
There are tons of photos out there, I'm still looking for the link that shows what the Island looked like before, during and after. That for sure will make you go WOW. As I reflect, the moments that I remember most as seeing the Czech Museum with it's lovely red roof-and that's all you see above the flood waters. That just means that behind it, all of Czech Village is under water. Or the gas tanks floating down river-yes underground storage tanks that popped out of the ground! Then there's the fire dept water rescue boats going up and down the streets of the down town, where people and cars should be.
Afterwards it's the piles of debris-belongings, trash and just plain crap that litter the streets, in the businesses, houses, parks, you name it. When you drove downtown the force of the water pulled up the asphalt, the bricks on the sidewalks and moved huge cement planters. In the residental neighborhoods, houses were off their foundations, feet of toxic muck covered everything and waterlines showed you daily just how high the water was.
A year later, many have rebuilt, many more have left. Some houses look brand new, some are slated for demolition. Boarded up buinesses sit next to others that proudly display their "We're Back" banners. It's amazing what has changed, but what has stayed the same.
Not something I wish on anyone but if it had to happen, it did so in the right community. It was commented in emails that unlike many other natural disasters, the communities in Iowa didn't sit and wait, complain about the lack of national help, Iowans just pulled up their boots and started rebuilding on their own. The amount of governmental disaster aid is much less then other disasters, though the end cost is much higher. We didn't sit on our hands waiting for handouts, but got right back to work. It is said that it will take 10 years to get back to normal, what ever that is now. But it only took a few days for the real Cedar Rapids to show itself, with people committed to returning.
That's why I love Iowa-we are just that, committed and proud of who we are.
Later gators...
C
Happy Birthday!
Seems the Buffett litter turned 1 year old yesterday. Gosh was the 2:30 in the morning c-section that long ago? Because Doc seems to remember it as yesterday and I still get crap about it every time I walk in the office!
Happy Birthday to Harry, Bear, Frankie Baby, Dovey, Rogue, Shaker, Arlo, and Cody!!! Looks like Harry had way too much fun at his party.
Later gators...
C
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Groups
Just an update, to the right is the link to the yahoo group that I encourage all of those who have one of my dogs, have bred to one of my dogs or might own a dog with related bloodlines, to join. I must add to due the lurker nature of some rude and inconsiderate people who want to gain information to malign people, it is not an open list. Sorry, but to protect the privacy of others, I need to keep it that way. But feel free to join and get to know the rest of the Foggy Bottom family.
Later gators....
C
Later gators....
C
Puppyitis
For those of you following the kids in the whelping box, we have eyes opening today!! And the first one is the little runt girl. Go figure. All are over a pound in weight and my poor husband. When I told him that they were opening their eyes, he goes, ears are next and he just can't wait to walk into the bathroom this week and get barked at. Scares the beegeebers out of him the first time it happens. Because after the first one barks then it's a chorus.
More photos will be up on the website later this evening and hoping to get some good candids too.
Later gators.....
C
More photos will be up on the website later this evening and hoping to get some good candids too.
Later gators.....
C
Little rambling
Been doing a lot of talking to friends this weekend, especially since they are playing at the shows while I stay home. Happy to report that Ruff Ruff took breed yesterday down in MO and then CM got a Group 3! Nothing else other then Rosario was in the house and his mother got banned from ringside this morning. To which I must congratulate the winners today-Nancy and her open bitch took BOB over the specials. She is a very nice bitch but I do have to make a comment and this is in no way a bash on Nancy's dog, but on something that most people know I have an issue with overall in the breed-size.
Let's get one thing out in the open-this is my blog, my right to have an opinion, just as much as everyone else has a right to voice their own-I do believe that's called freedom of speech.
Now to the thorn in my side. The cardigan standard! It states in the AKC standard-"General Impression-A handsome, powerful, small dog, capable of both speed and endurance, intelligent, sturdily built but not coarse. " Ideally, dogs should be from 30 to 38 pounds; bitches from 25 to 34 pounds. Lack of overall balance, oversized or undersized are serious faults. "
Here's where I have the issue-a small dog, 30-38lbs? I will be honest, I have two large dogs in my house. Moose is 41lbs and 13inches, his sister Abbey is roughly the same. BUT when I walked Moose out into the BOB ring at the National Specialty, he looked normal!!! I don't showing him as a special often as it goes against my interpetation of the standard, but did so this time to prove a point. Will I never use him or Abbey in breeding, no, but will only breed to a more moderate dog or bitch and only keep them ore moderate offspring.
My poor Russ is 36lbs, little over 11 inches, well within the standard and constantly penalized as not being big enough or having enough bone. Poor Music is at the bottom end of the bitches and even though being more correct then most out there, never gets a second look. If we are going to point fingers at the coats of some dogs, the heads, and the bone, which all have serious faults associated with them, why are we not doing the same with size?? Shame on you who feel bigger is always better then correctness. Shame on those "responsible" breeders who brag about testing and what not, yet show oversized dogs!
And on that note, before I leave to teach a class, here's my take on another thing going on in the world of dogs. Responsiblity.
A responsible breeder fputs aside personal agendas and for the sake of the dogs they produce, keep all parties fully informed of the health of their dogs. This is not posting it on a blog or hiding it deep in a website, but calling, emailing or writting a snail mail letter to those concerned.
This goes for those that use those breeder's stud dogs, or lease a bitch from them or that might use an outside stud dog in their breeding program. If you produce or even own a dog, you need to keep the lines of communication open.
How responsible are you if you let your personal agendas get in the way? How responsible and what good is all the broohahah about testing do, if you keep those with your bloodlines in the dark about the simplest thing, that in fact has a great deal of impact on them and the choices them make for the dogs they love?
Full disclosure is the only responsible way. Ever play the game telephone? Word of mouth is more damaging and misleading then getting the full story direct from the source.
Shame on those breeders who taunt being responsilbe, who post about their testing but can't put aside a personal agenda, feeling more of the need to hurt others and the dogs they love, by not being open and honest and not going direct to those that could be affected most.
For me-I have a yahoo group for any one who owns a dog I bred, owns a dog I once owned or owns a dog that comes from my bloodlines. You are invited to join and we all have a place to share information. I email, I call, I write everyone when I can and more importantly, if there is something that comes up that might affect you or decisions you make with your dogs in anyway, I let you know, regardless of what kind of relationship we might have-good, bad or ugly.
So off my rambling and on to bigger and better things-teaching some kids about the wonderful world of dog ownership and training!
Later gators...
C
Let's get one thing out in the open-this is my blog, my right to have an opinion, just as much as everyone else has a right to voice their own-I do believe that's called freedom of speech.
Now to the thorn in my side. The cardigan standard! It states in the AKC standard-"General Impression-A handsome, powerful, small dog, capable of both speed and endurance, intelligent, sturdily built but not coarse. " Ideally, dogs should be from 30 to 38 pounds; bitches from 25 to 34 pounds. Lack of overall balance, oversized or undersized are serious faults. "
Here's where I have the issue-a small dog, 30-38lbs? I will be honest, I have two large dogs in my house. Moose is 41lbs and 13inches, his sister Abbey is roughly the same. BUT when I walked Moose out into the BOB ring at the National Specialty, he looked normal!!! I don't showing him as a special often as it goes against my interpetation of the standard, but did so this time to prove a point. Will I never use him or Abbey in breeding, no, but will only breed to a more moderate dog or bitch and only keep them ore moderate offspring.
My poor Russ is 36lbs, little over 11 inches, well within the standard and constantly penalized as not being big enough or having enough bone. Poor Music is at the bottom end of the bitches and even though being more correct then most out there, never gets a second look. If we are going to point fingers at the coats of some dogs, the heads, and the bone, which all have serious faults associated with them, why are we not doing the same with size?? Shame on you who feel bigger is always better then correctness. Shame on those "responsible" breeders who brag about testing and what not, yet show oversized dogs!
And on that note, before I leave to teach a class, here's my take on another thing going on in the world of dogs. Responsiblity.
A responsible breeder fputs aside personal agendas and for the sake of the dogs they produce, keep all parties fully informed of the health of their dogs. This is not posting it on a blog or hiding it deep in a website, but calling, emailing or writting a snail mail letter to those concerned.
This goes for those that use those breeder's stud dogs, or lease a bitch from them or that might use an outside stud dog in their breeding program. If you produce or even own a dog, you need to keep the lines of communication open.
How responsible are you if you let your personal agendas get in the way? How responsible and what good is all the broohahah about testing do, if you keep those with your bloodlines in the dark about the simplest thing, that in fact has a great deal of impact on them and the choices them make for the dogs they love?
Full disclosure is the only responsible way. Ever play the game telephone? Word of mouth is more damaging and misleading then getting the full story direct from the source.
Shame on those breeders who taunt being responsilbe, who post about their testing but can't put aside a personal agenda, feeling more of the need to hurt others and the dogs they love, by not being open and honest and not going direct to those that could be affected most.
For me-I have a yahoo group for any one who owns a dog I bred, owns a dog I once owned or owns a dog that comes from my bloodlines. You are invited to join and we all have a place to share information. I email, I call, I write everyone when I can and more importantly, if there is something that comes up that might affect you or decisions you make with your dogs in anyway, I let you know, regardless of what kind of relationship we might have-good, bad or ugly.
So off my rambling and on to bigger and better things-teaching some kids about the wonderful world of dog ownership and training!
Later gators...
C
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Put the pressure on me, why don't ya!
After a day of obedience classes, running errands(Meredith seems to have outgrown not only her show clothes but her horse show clothes too), then the rain and well, I didn't get the painting done and dropped into the easy chair. As I drifted off to take a nap, I realized I still had some day light to take a few photos. So here ya go!
Turkeys and their partners the Pekins. Then some photos of the rest of the group. Sarah is sitting on about 10 eggs, so hoping that they are fertile and we get ducklings-she's been pretty good about brooding them. Last but not least for those with puppyitis, some of the crew. A big puppy pile because Mom just left to go out and as their bellies attest to, they can't waddle very far. The puppy on his back is the brindle male. We are lovingly calling him Grandpa as he has the same laid back personality as his Grandpa Fred. Enjoy!!
Later gators....
C
Friday, June 5, 2009
One of those days??
Ever have one of "those" mornings? Usually followed by one of "those" days?
Yeap, woke up with a headache-gotta be some sort of front moving in, after two aleve, still not kicking it. So the morning starts with a headache and goes from there.
I get out of bed and find my clothes.
I get my slacks, find socks-cool orangey peachy ones and go looking for the shirt that kind of matches.
Stop, watch puppies.
Oops, gotta get paperwork for Alec for this weekend.
Back to bathroom, now what was I doing, as I stop and watch puppies again. Oh yeah, shirt.
Downstairs to the laundry that I haven't put away or folded(still catching up on the whole broken dryer from last week). Start looking and realize that shirt was in the washer.
Okay, plan B-green shirt and cardigan denim shirt.
Back upstairs, plug in curling iron and stare at puppies some more.
Go pick up puppies for some cuddling.
Wait, what time is it?? Ugh, late!!!
Curl hair while watching puppies.
Now, where were those socks??
Look at clock, big UGH!
Out to the kitchen, start tea pot.
Back to bathroom, shut off curling iron, lights, look at puppies one more time.
Go get socks and realize that orangey socks, khakis, green shirt and denim shirt, really don't go together.
Look at clock one more time and oh well, feet are under the desk most of the day, no one will notice.
Make tea, drip it out of no spill cup as I go out the door.
Get to truck, sit, no keys.......
I managed to make it into work on time, though construction on the Hwy, reminder to self, take back roads home.
Unfortunately, I think the day has a lot of improving to do if I'm going to survive!
Hope everyone has a great weekend if I don't make it to post before the end of the day. Alec's going dog showing without me and I have a new obedience class starting up tomorrow, then holding a clinic for a neighboring county. Inbetween, painting, cleaning, weeding and if the rain holds off, riding a little.
Oh and looking at puppies ;0)
Later gators....
C
Yeap, woke up with a headache-gotta be some sort of front moving in, after two aleve, still not kicking it. So the morning starts with a headache and goes from there.
I get out of bed and find my clothes.
I get my slacks, find socks-cool orangey peachy ones and go looking for the shirt that kind of matches.
Stop, watch puppies.
Oops, gotta get paperwork for Alec for this weekend.
Back to bathroom, now what was I doing, as I stop and watch puppies again. Oh yeah, shirt.
Downstairs to the laundry that I haven't put away or folded(still catching up on the whole broken dryer from last week). Start looking and realize that shirt was in the washer.
Okay, plan B-green shirt and cardigan denim shirt.
Back upstairs, plug in curling iron and stare at puppies some more.
Go pick up puppies for some cuddling.
Wait, what time is it?? Ugh, late!!!
Curl hair while watching puppies.
Now, where were those socks??
Look at clock, big UGH!
Out to the kitchen, start tea pot.
Back to bathroom, shut off curling iron, lights, look at puppies one more time.
Go get socks and realize that orangey socks, khakis, green shirt and denim shirt, really don't go together.
Look at clock one more time and oh well, feet are under the desk most of the day, no one will notice.
Make tea, drip it out of no spill cup as I go out the door.
Get to truck, sit, no keys.......
I managed to make it into work on time, though construction on the Hwy, reminder to self, take back roads home.
Unfortunately, I think the day has a lot of improving to do if I'm going to survive!
Hope everyone has a great weekend if I don't make it to post before the end of the day. Alec's going dog showing without me and I have a new obedience class starting up tomorrow, then holding a clinic for a neighboring county. Inbetween, painting, cleaning, weeding and if the rain holds off, riding a little.
Oh and looking at puppies ;0)
Later gators....
C
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Imprinting
I promise photos added tonight but had to relate this very cute story about some really stupid birds.
As you know, Alec got two turkeys for his state fair project. They are bronze or American Broad Breasted Bronze. Goes along with our whole heritage theme as these were the first commerical type turkeys produced back in the 1930's from the original (unimproved) bronze birds that came in with settlers. But I digress.
Remember those photos of what the heck are these back in April? The two poults brooded down in his room/basement for about 4 weeks before being moved to the larger brooder in the garage. This happened when he was cleaning the cage one day and turned around to see one of them sitting on the top of the waterer, looking around the basement. If they can get up there and over the sides of the brooder, they were big enough to go out in the garage. Joining them a few days later were the pekins we took in from the school.
At this point they are very easy to handle but honestly, stupid stupid birds. They ran into the walls, each other, the waterer and yes, they started acting like ducks and play in the water.
Weather got nice the first part of May and they went outside in a smaller pen in the large duck yard. Once the adult ducks got used to them, we let the pekins and turkeys loose with the adults. No biggy right, well the dog yard is adjacent to the duck yard and the dogs love nothing more then harassing the ducks and Commander Cody loves nothing more then tempting fate and harassing the dogs. The noise is unreal at times.
We go out in the yard and the turkeys are the first up to us, you literally step on them as they are underfoot, pecking at your jeans, legs, shoes, or if you happen to be crouched down or bent over, yes your butt. They are known to jump in the wading pool and splash around-at midnight. But the best is yet to come.
As noted above, the backyard dog yard is only seperated from the duck yard by wire. We are adding some solid fencing this summer to solve the next issue. Yes the turkeys are imprinted on us--not a bad idea as they will be easier to handle at the shows, but now, they are imprinted on the dogs. A good way to risk getting eaten by a dog if I do say so. The dogs run the fence barking and the turkeys run the fence. Dogs stop, turkeys stop. Dogs move, turkeys move. Dogs rest, turkeys rest on the other side of the fence. It's unreal! I take Moose out to move ducks and turkeys come right up to him - he of course looks at me like what the hell??? They have no fear of the dogs and seem to think the whole barking and running thing is what turkeys do-well not the barking but they do talk a lot to the dogs.
Photos tonight if I get home and there's a enough light. It's our entertainment each evening-we are easily amused at times. Now it's a betting game--which turkey will be stupid enough to get too close to the fence or even stick their head through? Forgot, we did name them, I know, a no no, but fitting names none the less--Thanksgiving and Turkey Jerky! Befitting considering their fate this fall ;0)
Later gator......
C
As you know, Alec got two turkeys for his state fair project. They are bronze or American Broad Breasted Bronze. Goes along with our whole heritage theme as these were the first commerical type turkeys produced back in the 1930's from the original (unimproved) bronze birds that came in with settlers. But I digress.
Remember those photos of what the heck are these back in April? The two poults brooded down in his room/basement for about 4 weeks before being moved to the larger brooder in the garage. This happened when he was cleaning the cage one day and turned around to see one of them sitting on the top of the waterer, looking around the basement. If they can get up there and over the sides of the brooder, they were big enough to go out in the garage. Joining them a few days later were the pekins we took in from the school.
At this point they are very easy to handle but honestly, stupid stupid birds. They ran into the walls, each other, the waterer and yes, they started acting like ducks and play in the water.
Weather got nice the first part of May and they went outside in a smaller pen in the large duck yard. Once the adult ducks got used to them, we let the pekins and turkeys loose with the adults. No biggy right, well the dog yard is adjacent to the duck yard and the dogs love nothing more then harassing the ducks and Commander Cody loves nothing more then tempting fate and harassing the dogs. The noise is unreal at times.
We go out in the yard and the turkeys are the first up to us, you literally step on them as they are underfoot, pecking at your jeans, legs, shoes, or if you happen to be crouched down or bent over, yes your butt. They are known to jump in the wading pool and splash around-at midnight. But the best is yet to come.
As noted above, the backyard dog yard is only seperated from the duck yard by wire. We are adding some solid fencing this summer to solve the next issue. Yes the turkeys are imprinted on us--not a bad idea as they will be easier to handle at the shows, but now, they are imprinted on the dogs. A good way to risk getting eaten by a dog if I do say so. The dogs run the fence barking and the turkeys run the fence. Dogs stop, turkeys stop. Dogs move, turkeys move. Dogs rest, turkeys rest on the other side of the fence. It's unreal! I take Moose out to move ducks and turkeys come right up to him - he of course looks at me like what the hell??? They have no fear of the dogs and seem to think the whole barking and running thing is what turkeys do-well not the barking but they do talk a lot to the dogs.
Photos tonight if I get home and there's a enough light. It's our entertainment each evening-we are easily amused at times. Now it's a betting game--which turkey will be stupid enough to get too close to the fence or even stick their head through? Forgot, we did name them, I know, a no no, but fitting names none the less--Thanksgiving and Turkey Jerky! Befitting considering their fate this fall ;0)
Later gator......
C
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
plans
Taking a note from Dawn over at Daybreake, I'm going to start writing down my goals for my dogs. I seem to remember this as something I learned in 4-H, way too many moons ago. Every year at the beginning of our project we are supposed to write down our goals for the year. Every year, I did them at the end of the year when I was finishing my record book and turning it in for awards ;0) Wasn't until I started doing my FFA records during high school that I really buckled down and did it in ernst.
So here it is:
Moose-get his CD and CDX by the end of the year. What do I need to do right now? He's perfecting his on leash heel as his off leash is now awesome. Gotten slack on the on leash stuff. Little more work on recalls as we have been working on drops at class and need to go back to straight recalls. Dumbbell work is progressing-now need to work on the go out. Jumps-once he quits being lazy and dropping his tail, he's doing great on both. Hum, what else? Figure 8's are awesome after learning a new game to play while training with that exercise. Attainable? Yeap, just gotta buckle down and do it! I also need to find the shows to do it at. That might make is a little harder to get done.
Frankie-get his RN by February. CH first, then RN. He's got is sitter back-it was busted for awhile, but his downer is good. Now we need a stay-not there yet.
Eddie-I don't even want to think about that one yet, but yes, looking at his CD-short and simple, working on off leash attention. Then worry about everything else. I don't see that happening till late next year-he's always a work in progress and we do a lot of back tracking. Remember, everyone calls him the s l o w blue dog and there are days I agree.
Abbey-RN. She's got a good down, but stay and sit are far from ready. That's the biggest thing we need to work on, but I might put Alec to work on that one.
Lots of work to do and if I can quit watching those cute little puppies for a little bit each night, then it might happen. But writing it down helps me to remember what to do.
Oh, bugger---forgot the horses! Phoenix needs some major rail time as well as Glory. The goal with the big horse is to have her ready for the riding class at the Draft Show at State Fair in August. This should be interesting ;0)
Later gators....
C
So here it is:
Moose-get his CD and CDX by the end of the year. What do I need to do right now? He's perfecting his on leash heel as his off leash is now awesome. Gotten slack on the on leash stuff. Little more work on recalls as we have been working on drops at class and need to go back to straight recalls. Dumbbell work is progressing-now need to work on the go out. Jumps-once he quits being lazy and dropping his tail, he's doing great on both. Hum, what else? Figure 8's are awesome after learning a new game to play while training with that exercise. Attainable? Yeap, just gotta buckle down and do it! I also need to find the shows to do it at. That might make is a little harder to get done.
Frankie-get his RN by February. CH first, then RN. He's got is sitter back-it was busted for awhile, but his downer is good. Now we need a stay-not there yet.
Eddie-I don't even want to think about that one yet, but yes, looking at his CD-short and simple, working on off leash attention. Then worry about everything else. I don't see that happening till late next year-he's always a work in progress and we do a lot of back tracking. Remember, everyone calls him the s l o w blue dog and there are days I agree.
Abbey-RN. She's got a good down, but stay and sit are far from ready. That's the biggest thing we need to work on, but I might put Alec to work on that one.
Lots of work to do and if I can quit watching those cute little puppies for a little bit each night, then it might happen. But writing it down helps me to remember what to do.
Oh, bugger---forgot the horses! Phoenix needs some major rail time as well as Glory. The goal with the big horse is to have her ready for the riding class at the Draft Show at State Fair in August. This should be interesting ;0)
Later gators....
C
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
What a pain
I've been battling AKC and Onofrio for about 3 weeks now as results as posted, for the last show are incorrect in juniors. Thank goodness for honest kind people. The mom of one of the other juniors that did not win, called me yesterday and said did you know....? After a long conversation to which she said she had contacted both the AKC and Onofrio, she said she's helping out as it's the right thing to do. I didn't even contact her about this!
So my rant and rave about honesty, common courtesy and manners, I guess there are genuine people still out there. She had said, you know, my kid didn't win that day but it's not fair that they can't get it correct to show that your daughter did win. Two years ago I did the same thing. One of the kids in the class was excused when her nasty dog turned and attacked another dog in the ring. The dog that was attacked--was marked excused and he actually got 2nd in the class. That only took 2 weeks to get resolved. This time, I've about had it.
Seems the book was marked kind of wonky and now the judge is not returning correspondence from both the AKC or Onofrio on this matter. They(AKC and Onofrio) have to talk to her now to get confirmation on the results. So now I have a picture of the ribbon and dog to forward. Wouldn't you know that this was the one show where the Ms said-I'm tired, skip the photo, let's go home. Next step is pulling in the show chair and talking to them, then the AKC rep at the show. One of the other juniors has been contacted and they are helping out now too.
Why can't things be simple?? But at least I can vouche for genuinely honest people who know right from wrong and are willing to step up to a task with out being asked. Thank you!!!!
Later gators....
C
So my rant and rave about honesty, common courtesy and manners, I guess there are genuine people still out there. She had said, you know, my kid didn't win that day but it's not fair that they can't get it correct to show that your daughter did win. Two years ago I did the same thing. One of the kids in the class was excused when her nasty dog turned and attacked another dog in the ring. The dog that was attacked--was marked excused and he actually got 2nd in the class. That only took 2 weeks to get resolved. This time, I've about had it.
Seems the book was marked kind of wonky and now the judge is not returning correspondence from both the AKC or Onofrio on this matter. They(AKC and Onofrio) have to talk to her now to get confirmation on the results. So now I have a picture of the ribbon and dog to forward. Wouldn't you know that this was the one show where the Ms said-I'm tired, skip the photo, let's go home. Next step is pulling in the show chair and talking to them, then the AKC rep at the show. One of the other juniors has been contacted and they are helping out now too.
Why can't things be simple?? But at least I can vouche for genuinely honest people who know right from wrong and are willing to step up to a task with out being asked. Thank you!!!!
Later gators....
C
Monday, June 1, 2009
Thanks Laura!!! This blog award was sent from Laura over at Cooper Creek Cardigans and My Favorite People Are Dogs blog. She's had a little bit of a hard time the last couple of weeks and it's great to see her smile. Rule is: forward this on to ten other people/blogs--as in spread the happiness! And since Laura hit everyone on her blog which is most of the people on mine, well I only have a few others to add----
Annie's Blog http://annielul.blogspot.com/
Russ and Crew http://cardicorgicapers.blogspot.com/
Murphy, Porter & Colleen http://portermurphy.blogspot.com/
Winjammin' http://winjammin.blogspot.com/
Garrett http://ebonwald.blogspot.com/ or http://ramsayfarms.blogspot.com/
Dawn http://daybreakedogs.blogspot.com/
Ferris & Joann http://beaguile.blogspot.com/
Almost have ten there but like I said, Laura hit her whole blog list, so most everyone's already got one.
Hugs for the day--it's only Monday and I forsee a long long week-ugh.
Later gators.....
C
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