r3K9s

Happy 5th Gotcha Day Miss Maddie!!!

2011-07-26T08:35:00.000-06:00

WW - Who Would Have Thought....

2011-05-04T09:47:00.001-06:00

WW - Innocent Until Proven Guilty

2011-04-27T09:29:00.002-06:00

WW - Purpose of a Human's Lap

2011-04-20T08:57:00.005-06:00

Miss Maddie working!

2011-03-29T09:08:00.003-06:00

So here is a little taste of Intro to Odor held at Calling All Dogs. This search was odor with food.

The next video isn't so much about the search. It's about the schnauzer in the back ground. Maddie looks a few times, but doesn't react or lunge that way. While working, she doesn't even try to sneak over there. What work ethic!!!! You have come a long way Maddie XXOO

She did have a very difficult time on Odor only searches. At once point, she got so frustrated she starting throwing out tricks right and left. So, we walked away and a piece of food was placed by the odor. we came back and she hit it .

I'll be working this week on odor only and a few with food so it isn't too hard for her and she ends up not liking the searches.

WW - Happy 8th Birthday to the Dog that Started it all

2011-03-23T08:00:00.006-06:00

SUCCESS!

2011-03-22T08:39:00.015-06:00

Still high from last night! I am going to blog about it because I wanna remember the moments that made last night so fantastic. Plus, when we have a less than stellar night in class, I can go back and read this :-)

Maddie and I started our Intro to Odor class last night. We take our class at Calling All Dogs with an amazing trainer, Anna.

I was nervous, not because I don't have faith in Maddie, but because I don't have faith in myself to be diligent and aware 110% of the time. If I lose focus for just one second, I may set her up to fail.

We train in B room - which has large rectangular windows on two sides that face the parking lot. This made me nervous a little (ok really what doesn't make me nervous?). Cars/people/dogs come and go. The crate area is pretty limited in this room/class , so I decided to keep her in crate in car. Actually, I think this option is much better for both of us. I can watch other dogs and hear everything Anna is saying in class.

So we started back on boxes with birch odor and food. I brought Maddie in for first round. Of course she is super duper excited - butt wiggles and play bows galore, excited to see Anna etc. Last class, most of the students sat when Maddie came out as not to have too much distraction, so no one really got to "see" her work ( everyone in current class was in last class) But, this time, they were all watching. I hid the box, while Anna keeps her occupied with different commands. It's fun to hear Anna laugh at Maddie and to see Maddie respond to Anna's requests. The windows didn't take her off task, the new room didn't freak her out and either did the people watching. Her first round was successful, she was in work mode. Fast, searching from get go, and finding the box. I was stoked! When I got back to area, the other students complimented her. "wow she is fast. she is So smart. WOW she is amazing".

Next round she comes out, again ready to search. Hangs with Anna, this time more in work mode. She keeps pulling to go search. Next search goes really well (one she was slow on as it was a little harder, regular box on top of odor box, but she got it). But once search stands out. The odor box was about three boxes in. So Anna gives Maddie her search command and away she goes. She is blazing thru course, passes odor box, but in mid stride after box, she whips around mid air and dives into odor box. It was SO cool to watch. She caught scent mid air! More compliments from students "Look at how smart she is and all the commands she did with Anna". Also, compliments from Anna about how she isn't distracted by windows, people, etc. Very comfortable. She said something to affect that she was totally in work mode; very focused on the task.

Third and last round. Difficult searches. This time, Anna hid odor box and Maddie was with me. First search begins and she hit it so fast. I hear another student comment, "And that was the hard search??!! Holy cow!" Second search was a box upside down on top of the odor box. She passed it once, and then caught it. Pawed at box until she moved it and got to treats. SUCCESS! I was so stoked for her! Of course, after each round, I had to bait her with treats back to the car. She doesn't want to leave!

It is SO amazing to watch her work. I have heard the breed has amazing work ethic, and it's not like I haven't seen it before with her. But this isn't one on one with mom. And it isn't in our friends back yard, where she is pretty comfortable at too. This is in a different setting, with distractions galore. Watching her work ethic is almost like watching a miracle take place.

I will admit she is somewhat of a "bull in a china shop" when searching - LOL. She goes so fast (and she needs to slow down IMHO), if no scent from the box, she kind of jumps, or steps on it and runs to the next. Plus she is on lead, so sometimes the lead is hitting the boxes. I like her on a lead, as during trials the dogs are on leads.

I think the highlight for me really was hearing compliments from Anna and the students. Especially, people who really don't really know her except as the dog who has issues (one person asked me at beginning of class last night - " so she doesn't like dogs or people???"). It's great to hear compliments, but also hard to swallow - not sure if that makes sense? I am kind of biased when it comes to my dogs. Sure I think Maddie is smart, fast, has good work ethic, but that is at home in her comfort. But out in the big scary world , she isn't too comfortable. But when she is - when she is the dog out in the world that she is at home, and then to hear compliments. It really makes me glow! Plus, what if this is the only time these students actually get to see an APBT close up? What if they have a negative stereotype of the breed? Maybe they might not understand the breed, or the difference between HA or DA - BUT they get to see the work ethic, the smarts and the love this breed has.

Needless to say she got so many hugs when we got home and I couldn't stop smiling. But all Maddie wanted to do was go to sleep. LOL "enough hugs Mom!"

It was a good night. I hope for more, but we will have nights she doesn't do too well. Gotta keep my expectations in check. Plus, I need to remain humble with her. I don't want to be like "she is all that and a bag of chips", because a) that isn't true and b) I set us up for failure. Plus, no dog is really "all that and a bag of chips", at least in my house. There is ALWAYS more work to do, more to learn. I want to rejoice in the good times and be driven to do better/work harder when things don't go as well.

WW - Never far away from her girl

2011-03-16T08:41:00.001-06:00

Heavy Heart

2011-03-04T13:21:00.009-07:00

Today, our flyball team lost one of our core dogs.

Little Lucie went to the bridge.

Jake and I started at the tail end of Lucie's career . Still, we weren't too late to be able to run a year or two with her. She was a spitfire! You could not notice how awesome - how much love she had for the game .

After Billy met her, I got harped on getting a JRT just like her. But, there is only 1 Lucie.

Lucie and her family are very special to us. And my heart breaks for them and all the original UTB members.

She was a fighter up until the end.

RIP Lucie. Go find the flyball game in the sky. For they have now gained UTB's most valuable height dog.

Our team captain put this video together as a tribute to Lucie.

WW - Smothered in Bully kisses

2011-03-02T13:00:00.001-07:00

WW - Years in the Making

2011-02-16T07:57:00.001-07:00

WW - Amazing Week for the Two Terrors - opps Terriers

2011-01-12T09:18:00.003-07:00

WW - 2010 in review

2010-12-21T13:05:00.013-07:00

First Snow Oct 27th 2010

2010-10-28T16:51:00.002-06:00

WW - GOTCHA!

2010-07-28T08:30:00.002-06:00

WW - The Borador and the Seal

2010-07-07T08:50:00.000-06:00

WW - Where is the DAMN SQUEEKY??!!!!

2010-06-30T08:44:00.002-06:00

WW - Team Work

2010-06-23T08:55:00.001-06:00

Letting Go

2010-06-21T13:58:00.010-06:00

These past few weeks, the lesson seems to be "let go".

All kittens are gone, well Via is being fostered and still looking for a home. Even Java found a new home. Java left yesterday and this morning I missed her meow and her morning greetings. I miss the kittens too but for some reason, Java was really hard for me to release. Maybe because she was the last one to go. She has been hanging out in our neighborhood for over year - and she was always in my garage in the morning. Now, she is gone (which seems to represent everything else going away in my life) but I know she is going to go enjoy her new home. Plus, Jinga was there to greet me in the morning.

That is just one example of my letting go lesson. It seems everywhere I turn, I am having to relase someone/something. I don't do this lesson very well - and I sometimes leave claw marks all over what I am suppose to be letting go of. I need to remember letting go is a process. I am walking thru it -some days better than others and always without a lot of grace.

I have to remember, nothing absolutly nothing, happens in God's world by mistake. And whatever i am letting go of is so that God/Universe can replace it with something more wonderful.

And no post would be complete with out photos of the dogs. And they deserve it - they have kept a bit of my spirit alive this past month and keep me busy. It could be a run in the park, roll on the blades, a swim in the lake,Maddie's snuggles , bath zoomies , when Maddie brings me her jolly or just a nudge with a paw or nose. thanks pups - xx00 Mom lady

WW - Kung Fu Kittens!

2010-06-01T12:10:00.002-06:00

WW - How Pike Feels about a Camera.....

2010-05-26T07:50:00.003-06:00

WW - Hello World It's me Via!

2010-05-19T09:04:00.002-06:00

Java's Crew New Home

2010-05-13T11:25:00.005-06:00

The Java crew is almost 6 weeks old.

This week I had to move them into their new home. Pike and Kona thought jumping out of the pool was fun. The tower was a wee too small so I hooked up an old/broken Dog crate.

They are eating the kitten food I have in there and even using a litter box. At first they thought the litter box was a jungle jim - silly kitties. When I come out - they all meow and try to run up to the door. Billy took Pike in to meet Maddie. They were face to face and my little Maddie just sniffed . Maybe Maddie knew it was a baby - maybe she didn't. But she didn't go into prey mode or chase. Maybe it was Billy's presence that kept her acting a fool.

Java really isn't happy being in her new house. I am sure she isn't. She did often jump out of the pool - to go relax away from the babies. She is feral after all - so putting her in a cage - she almost seems depressed. I put her shelf and hammock up high, thinking she might be smart enough to know she can go up there. Hopefully, she will snap out of it soon.

Another Mother's Day Come and Gone

2010-05-13T11:11:00.006-06:00

Well, another Mother's day has come and gone.

I pretty much ignored it - I am good at ignoring my feelings. Denial is a river in Egypt, I say. I turned the radio to a different station when a commercial came on. I did the same thing on the sappy TV commercials. Heck, if I even sniffed the word "mother" on a FB post, my eyes darted to the next. I avoided all card isles and gifts for the day.

And then came Sunday. I had to run to Barbara's and drop off some stuff she needed me to pick up at Sam's. On Mother's day, the dogs always get their Grammy something. So, I needed to stop and get her a card and a gift. I pulled into Walgreen's -didn't think much of it - I thought most of the Mother cards would be gone - plus I am good at diversions. In and Out I thought. I walked down the card isle looking for "grandmother" tabs. Then I saw a card - a card my eyes were drawn too. On auto pilot I picked it up. It read; " The connection you have with a daughter - it's not always simple or perfect ever day or without a wish for a do-over or two. But it's alwways love, always a check mark in the blessings column, and always, always one of the best joys in life". Hence, I lost it - in the middle of Walgreens..I never learn do I?

I bought the card. Not sure why. I thought maybe I would write a letter to Mom and put it in my "God Can". But the more I thought about it - a little seed inside of me thought maybe it was a little message from her. I really don't believe in those things - but something - some hope or light inside- put that thought into my head. Maybe I was just looking for a message subconsciously. Maybe I am forcing the message. I don't know. But I am going to hold onto the seed and believe for a little while..

WW - Java's Crew Up Close

2010-05-12T07:53:00.002-06:00

WW - Java Crew One Month Old!

2010-05-05T08:51:00.002-06:00

Time to breath!

2010-04-30T14:00:00.016-06:00

It has been a crazy week.

Got back from playing flyball at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway - yea baby - on Monday.
Spent Tuesday morning at the dealership.
Since then, I have been working 12-13 hours days. Body/Mind is paying for it and now I can almost breath.

So let me update...
Yep, that is where the tournament was. Fly'N Aces put on their very first tournament. The way it ran, the amazing job they did, it was like they had been doing it forever! It was in a building right in the middle of the track. But that fact wasn't even the highlight...
Maybe this was it...
Or this... Fran belonging to Tracy and Leslie from Mad Dogs
Or Jake's smile at flyball (photo courtesy of Nicole Hrustyk)
Or was it seeing Blink run a new personal best?
Or River and Jana running a 3.976 - the first UTB dog EVER to run under 4 seconds?
Or taking 1st place in Division 3, which was full of heavy hitting teams (meaning really fast/competitive teams - still think they added wrong - LOL)
Or was it seeing good friends from Cali, making new friends, seeing teams we usually don't get to see run, hanging out with a great bunch of flyball peeps?
Or was it the support UTB got from all the various teams when we needed help?
Or seeing Touch N Go break their world record not once but TWICE! simply amazing

Plus - no toys as a prize! (hehe Jake isn't a toy dog - they always go home to the girls). This is what they awarded instead - pretty awesome!

I don't think I can pinpoint one thing as the highlight. It was just a great weekend full of all the above awesome things plus more... To me, the weekend flowed...

This is why I love flyball; what it is about to me. Good times, lots of laughs, great peeps, watching the dogs do what they love to do, seeing dogs/teams reach goals, everyone in sync together, everything/everyone falling into place.......

Ahhh - so when do we get to do it again?

WW - No; It should read "It's that 'GO-GO' Gal"

2010-04-21T08:04:00.001-06:00

Growing Fast....

2010-04-18T07:16:00.007-06:00

Kittens are growing so fast.
As of yesterday, everyone had their eyes open. They actually hear too!
When I talk they kind of move their heads in my directions.

To me, the orange are the strongest and most healthy. They seemed to advance first.
There is one black one that is crawling ALL over and if I make sounds - crawls to me. He is the only one that doesn't squeak when I pick them up.

I can't tell which are male or female. Billy said he can and rambled them all off to me. But at the same time, some he said were male looked just like the ones he said were female. I am going to keep looking and comparing to photos on line.

We cleaned up the area since Java has been so friendly. Since all the kittens are moving, and some faster than others, I was worried they would start to get lost. So, we bought a little baby pool yesterday and put them in.
I'm a sucker for the orange ones
And a sucker for the black ones
Heck - just I am just a sucker for all of them!

Billy really wants to keep one. Financially, we can't. If he wants to pay for food, litter, shots etc. - we can keep one. But, I have heard that story before and that isn't how it happens.

I made the mistake of telling Hadley about the kittens - who in turned told Dad about the kittens. He gave me a stern lecture last night before I went to bed. Funny, how even at 40, a harsh lecture from my dad can make me feel small and question/doubt decisions I make. How I feel after a conversation/lecture - well, no one can make you feel anything. I have to remember feelings aren't facts. I tossed and turned most of the night (not to mention getting whacked by Maddie's "cone of shame" every so often). So, I woke up feeling like someone hit me over the head with a hammer and really angry. Oh well, this too shall pass.

On the dog front, Maddie's spring time allergies returned - oh joy! So, she is in her lamp shade for the past week. I have been letting her sleep on bed with me (I know - bad bad bad) but she can't fit comfortably in the crate with it on. If I put her in there, she just cries and cries - which sends Jake and Sneek into a tizzy fit. Sleeping/Snuggling with Maddie is a lot different than the labs - she is always next to me and smothers me with bully kisses during the night.
Here is a pic of her in her cone and can't you just hear her saying "B*tch get this thing off me!"

One week

2010-04-13T09:07:00.006-06:00

One Week old

Day 5
Day 4
Yesterday, was day 7 . Trying to get her to move the babies to a clean blanket. It's not happening. Billy is able to get close without her running away, and so am I. I sit out in the garage and watch the kittens - sometimes travel from one side of her to the other. Or watch her try and get comfortable so they each have a nipple. We watched a black one and the orange one fight for a nipple the other night. Their paws are so cute. I watched the lighter orange one try and get her nail out of the blanket to crawl over Java - squealing the whole time.

I am trying to figure out how to contain them once they are able to really move. Too many hiding spaces in the garage. I thought about an xpen - but I know Java will jump it - but maybe I can put a tarp on the top. I don't think a dog crate will be large enough for her, the litter box etc.

I feel bad Jinga has been vanished from the garage, especially with the heavy rain we had. We set up a crate on the front step with a tarp over it - but I don't think she is using it. I miss seeing her in the am and am worried she isn't eating properly, not that she can't stand to loss a few pounds. I see the neighbors cat at the porch food bowl more than I see Jinga.

I can't tell the difference between the 3 black ones. The orange kittens - one is darker and one is lighter so that is easy. The orange kittens seem much more active than the black; and talk much more. I am kind of smitten with them.

Watching them is actually very interesting to me - a wonder of life I have never seen. Billy is still a kid in a candy store with them - reading everything he can. He comes in telling me the latest info he finds via the net - suggestions, changes we will see, etc. Glad he is taking some responsibility raising them. With all that is going on, I am glad to have him help.

Java Crew Day 2 & 3

2010-04-09T08:33:00.007-06:00

Java and Crew Day 2

Crew day 3

Day 3
Well, here we are at day 4. I am getting a little out of hand with the photos. But I can't help it. Sitting in garage and watching her amazes me. When one is out of the fold or on the opposite side of her nipples, they wiggle their way back; sometimes climbing over her back to get to the right side..

The orange ones are always squeaking - and I find it irresistible! They are little piggies - always looking for her nipple.

She doesn't run when I am out there. Unfortunately, she bolts whenever Billy comes out. i know it hurts him and he is trying to gain her trust. But, Java isn't there with him yet.
I have yet to touch the crew. Billy has handled the kittens. I try and tell him not to - but well, he is going to do what he is going to do. He is ultimately a cat person and is like a little kid in the candy store with the kittens. This is the man who saves baby birds and builds them boxes in trees and feeds them worms.

We are both a little obsessed with the little ones, and i think probably being too watchful. Java isn't eating her kibble so we are loading her up on wet food. Grammy and Grampy gave us some wet food their cats won't eat. So now we are just trying to find out a flavor she likes so I don't over buy on one she won't eat.

I put a clean blanket out in the garage, hoping she moves them but she hasn't yet. Good news is that she is using the litter box. I also put a box and a dog crate just in case she wants to move them.

So, that is the short version of what is going on.

More photos to come as they start to grow.

Words for a Wednesday...

2010-04-07T09:40:00.006-06:00

"Talk doesn't cook rice'' (Chinese Proverb)

Surprise!

2010-04-06T13:32:00.007-06:00

As part of my morning ritual, I visit the two cats that we feed in the garage, Jinga and Java .
Java didn't run this am - and as I looked closer - well this is what I saw once my eyes focused;
She later moved and I got a closer look;

Wonderful, I thought. I ran in to call Billy. We have tried to catch this little girl for the longest time. She is so skiddish and completely feral.

Neither of us have ever seen or taken care of newborn kittens. In speaking with friends, we will let Java do her job and try not to interfere. We won't be using the garage for a while, to hopefully keep her and her kittens safe.

I will try and blog the journey of Java and her kittens. I guess I should think of names while I am at it. Since mama is Java, guess the kids need coffee names. So far I have Verona, Sumatra, (don't like that one), Espresso, Pike, and Via. Hoping by time I come home, I won't need to find any more names ;-)

Flyball Weekend

2010-03-30T12:15:00.004-06:00

We attended a flyball tournament this past weekend. We went down to sunny and warm Saint George.

I had to pull Jake Sunday on the last run. Instead of one stride between jumps, he was doing 2-3. I noticed it on his last run the heat before. He had a good hour sleep between the next heat. Plus, we needed him for Lucie's TFP title. First run good - second run - again 2-3 strides. It scared me. Thank goodness Ross had Tripp on the side line and she came in for Jake. Took him immediatly over to Anita. She palpated his muscles pretty good - and he didn't wince. And as of today, no swelling anywhere. So I am thinking he just ran out of gas. And that is my fault. He isn't in the greatest shape after the winter.

I have also noticed something else in my handsome boy. His vision is starting to go. Last few months when we play chuck it - he misses on catches he use to catch all the time.
Then this weekend, anytime my hands may have flown in front of his face, he flintched. Those of you that know me, know I would NEVER hit Jake, on purpose. In talking with a friend about it, she said maybe his vision is going and he is flinching because of shadows.

So I am a little worried. Going to keep my eye on his vision. I am not going to try and run him this week until at least Thursday. Give his body time to recover. I'll take him out to run and make sure he is ok. We won't be having practice for a few weeks. So, if there is something going on, rest will help.

On a "oh.my.gosh." note - I actually got a .001 start with Jake in singles. It wasn't anything I did - as I think Jake pulled off. Still it was cool for me!

Jake received his Top Flight Premier-Level I. So now only about 8000 more points until Top Flight Expert; which would be a plaque to recognize his flyball career. That is my plan for him.

I know I know...Some of you are thinking - who cares about titles! Well, I do. And this poem explains my feeling about titles;

What Is A Title Really?
Not just a brag, not just a stepping stone to a higher Title, not just an adjunct to competitive scores.
A Title is a tribute to the dog that bears it, a way to honour the dog, an ultimate memorial. It will remain in the record and in the memory for about as long as anything in this world can remain. Few humans will do as well or better in that regard.
And though the dog himself doesn't know or care that his achievements have been noted, a Title says many things in the world of humans, where such things count.
A Title says your dog was intelligent, and adaptable, and good-natured.
It says that your dog loved you enough to do the things that please you, however crazy they may have sometimes seemed.
And a Title says that you loved your dog, that you loved to spend time with him because he was a good dog, and that you believed in him enough to give him yet another chance when he failed, and that in the end your faith was justified.
A Title proves that your dog inspired you to have the special relationship enjoyed by so few; that in a world of disposable creatures, this dog with a Title was greatly loved, and loved greatly in return.
And when that dear short life is over, the Title remains as a memorial of the finest kind, the best you can give to a deserving friend, volumes of praise in one small set of initials before or after the name.
A Title is nothing less than love and respect, given and received permanently.
Author Sandy Mowrey

WW - Belated Birthday Wishes to My Black Pack

2010-03-24T08:35:00.002-06:00

Zoey - 6 y/o 2/23/10
Jake - 7 y/o 3/23/10
Sneekers - 2 y/o 1/21/10
(not real birth days, but a guesstimate)

WW - Treat for Me??

2010-03-10T08:35:00.001-07:00

White Gift

2010-03-05T08:53:00.005-07:00

Sneek and Zoe early a.m. snow romp

We woke up to a few inches of snow this morning.
I was actually happy to see it. We haven't had much valley snow this year, at least at my house. It seems the past few years, the valley has more spring snow storms than winter snow storms.

The snow brings out a certain "wild side" of the dogs. They act like someone lit a fire cracker under their butt; even in the early morning. Zoom Zoom Zoom they go.

Unfortunately, it was 5:30 am, and Maddie tends to bark as she zooms. So, I couldn't let her out to play with the the others . Sorry baby girl. :-( She did get to go out with me - but after the third time of letting her out, I had to have her settle in her crate.

Glad they got to have a little run time this morning. I hope it isn't melted by time I get off work. They deserve more play time in the snow.

What's going on?

2010-02-19T13:53:00.007-07:00

WOW - my last writing was July of 09.

Here is an update on the pack.

Cats -
We lost Gizzy in July. A Necropsy was completed and she had cardiomyopathy. I miss her sweetness and the quite times we spent together when i groomed her. She "talked" often, especially at wet food time.

Tiger - I noticed she was losing weight. Off to the vet and her blood test results showed feline Leukemia. She has been indoors since she was a kitten. We aren't sure how she got the disease. Sometimes, we think the blood tests are wrong; at least that is what we tell ourselves. She is literally wasting away before our eyes. We are concerned for the other cats in the home - but at this point no one is showing signs.

Tom - Ol' man turned 18 in December. He is as grumpy as ever - taking charge of his herum..

We bought a new tower for the cats for Christmas. We had to put some steps next to it so fat @ss Dharma could get up there. I mostly find her and Holly up in the tree.

Socks - the fifth dog in the house is a total PITA - and would rather be with the dogs than with the cats.

Dogs
Well, it is winter and we really haven't done much. I get home late from work and it's dark already. I can sometimes fit in a training or session or two, but usually we are in bed by 8. So, basically they are all, including me, out of shape. It's almost like we are in hibernation.

Jake - We did a few flyball tournaments in St George and Vegas. It is what Jake loves and I like to take advantage of the opportunities for him to play. He has slowed down - and i expected that as he will soon be 7. But, I am just grateful, knock on wood, he is healthy for 7.

Zoe - She has become so lazy - hmmmm sounds like her human. She eats breakfast and then back to sleep. She and Sneek have become close - and they play often. Once in a while I catch her trying to get Maddie to play outside, but those times are far and few in between.

Maddie - Miss Maddie My snuggle bug. She has really calmed down this past year (knock on wood). Around Christmas she went on a hunger strike - not eating for almost 3 days. It was Christmas so most vets were closed. But, I got her thru the holiday by giving her Zantac and home made chicken soup (yes, I cooked). It took her a good week of chicken soup to recover. None of the other dogs got ill, so not sure what she got into to - but I am just glad she recovered and we didn't need to go to the vet.

Sneek - I don't think I can spend the next hour writing about her. I will just sum it up in one work"challenge". She has attended day care, on and off. We stopped going there because the girls she loves no longer worked there. The new staff doesn't understand Sneek's needs (or her desire to jump the 6 foot fence when left unattended). She is just about crate trained - just about is a vague term. She can stay in for 4-6 hours - although we have had to clip it shut otherwise she can escape. But still, progress has been made as we no longer come home to bloody paws or chipped teeth. We are still working on her flyball training. At this point I am not sure when or if she will ever make a debut. We did get her DNA results back. Her primary was blank, secondary was Boxer, and in the mix was Boston Terrier. So now I get even stranger looks when asked what kind of dog she is...

And - I turned 40. I just keep telling myself it's just a number - but then the aches and pains remind me I am not a young chic anymore. The last while leading up to the 40 - I have started to re-examine some things in my life. Let's just say I am now in the awareness stage :-)
I went home for my birthday and had a GRAND time. It was so great to see my Dad and sister. I so enjoyed my time with them and Hadley's mom and my brother in law. I want to go back more often, but at $350 a pop, well trips are far and few in between. I have some pics, which I might post later. It was nice to be home; almost too nice and too peaceful. It was comforting going back to my roots - remembering who I am, where I came from, why I am the way I am (see told you I am re-examining some things - sometimes I get to deep and freak out!)

That is the short update. I need to return to writing on the blog . I am missing moments here - and moments make up lifetimes and memories.

WW - Someone Save Me!

2010-01-27T09:11:00.001-07:00

WW - Love

2010-01-06T05:45:00.001-07:00

WW - Happy Festivus!!!!!!

2009-12-23T06:05:00.003-07:00

WW - Please Santa! I have been SO SO GOOD!

2009-12-16T06:20:00.001-07:00

WW - Sleeps while Sitting Up.

2009-12-09T07:04:00.001-07:00

WW - Flyball - No Scars; No Stories

2009-12-02T06:09:00.002-07:00

WW - Maddie says...

2009-11-25T09:39:00.000-07:00

WW - WOOF WOOF for Snow!

2009-11-18T05:44:00.001-07:00

WW - Almost There!

2009-11-11T08:42:00.000-07:00

WW - GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-11-04T10:37:00.003-07:00

WW - The Wait is TOOOOOOO Long...Take the Photo!

2009-10-28T08:26:00.004-06:00

WW - Fly Dumbo Fly

2009-10-14T11:36:00.002-06:00

WW - You talking to me???

2009-10-07T10:16:00.003-06:00

WW - YUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-09-30T08:30:00.003-06:00

WW - Yes - I am a sun goddess..............

2009-09-23T07:37:00.001-06:00

WW - She's Got Legs.....

2009-09-16T09:04:00.003-06:00

WW - A Handler in Prayer.....

2009-09-09T08:00:00.001-06:00

WW - Fly like an Eagle

2009-09-02T08:31:00.002-06:00

WW - Soulful Eyes

2009-08-26T12:45:00.004-06:00

WW - Video says it All

2009-08-19T09:13:00.002-06:00

WW -Crust for Us, Dad???

2009-08-12T07:58:00.002-06:00

WW - Morning Ritual with the Black Dog Pack

2009-08-05T07:52:00.003-06:00

WW - Ann or Lori???

2009-07-29T10:11:00.003-06:00

WW - Run Hard and Healthy at the Bridge,,,,,

2009-07-22T08:41:00.002-06:00

Ok Universe - Had Enough!

2009-07-14T09:30:00.006-06:00

I hate drama. I feel like I am swirling around in it these past few weeks.. I seem to think I have created it...I hate talking about it and sharing about things we walk thru (difficult stuff). I don't really share most of it with the www but some I do - like about the animals. It's probably not drama - more just - life stuff - that is coming in full force...What I do with it depends on if it becomes drama or not....

First - the whole issue with Zoe and her ear. The results of the culture are in and she has three separate bacterial infections in the ear. During the culture, they find out what antibiotic will work at killing the bacteria They found one - to the tune of $134...Oh VEY! So, more meds, more ear cleanings and they want to see her in three weeks.

Second Gizzie - She couldn't' walk straight yesterday and doesn't seem like herself. I had to take her to the vet yesterday. Three separate meds for her - and trying to get her to take the tablet is like trying to well - imagine something extremely difficult...I am not really convinced it is an ear infection - but we will give it a whirl and see if she is better in a week.

Third - I woke up with a horrible cough Monday and burning chest. I couldn't hardley even talk and the burn in my chest, after the cough, made me double over. I haven't felt well these past few weeks - but I ignored it - just thinking it was stress. So, yesterday I went to the doctor. Pneumonia, he said. I go go go go - and I think when I do that my body (or God) says - SLOW DOWN ANN. But as I sit here - trying to rest - I think of all the things I need to do - dishes, vacuum, wash the rugs, mow the lawn, dust, clean cat boxes, oil change, register car, get Zoe her meds, get Zoe's stitches removed, - the list goes on. What suxs is that I can't do ANY OF IT! I know if I attempt to try to do something - I will just push my recovery out and now get better...

I need to get back to basics - do what is in front of me and not worry so much about things I can't control or past situations that are done and over with. No amount of "b*tching" will change the fact the animals and I got ill. The solution is to give them their meds (take mine too) and to take care of them, and myself, the best I can...

So, Universe, I know you never give more than a person can handle - but could you not trust me so much? I think my plate is full.....

BTW - would it be wrong of my to stuff some benadryl down a few dogs to get them to relax so I can get some rest ?? ;-)

WW - From Neko to Sneek

2009-07-08T07:57:00.004-06:00

October 2008 - 10 months old

June 2009 - 18 months old

Zoe and her Babushka.....

2009-07-06T19:50:00.008-06:00

Poor Zoe...
You never want any of your dogs in pain - but Zoe is my "special" gal. She doesn't cause trouble - mostly lays around and wants to be loved. She is the neutral dog in our pack - gets along with other dogs. She loves all people. Her only downfall - she will lick you to death......

She has a severe staph/yeast infection in her ear - even her middle ear. Vet said it was one of the worst he has seen. Not sure if that is true - but anyway.

Lots of cleaning solution and lots of cream (antibiotic cream). Once we find out from the lab what type of staph we are dealing with, we can then talk more about a plan of attack.

He is worried about her shaking her head too much, so he put this wrap on her. If she shakes it too much, and damages her cartilage, she could end up with a hematoma.

She does look cute with her babushka on, doesn't she?

WW - Iz Veryz Happyz!

2009-07-01T08:50:00.003-06:00

Zoe and her Maternal Instinct

2009-06-26T11:48:00.008-06:00

A post on FB, had me thinking about Zoe this morning... Her maternal instinct comes into play with Sneek. It's a beautiful thing to watch.

Walking in the gully, Sneek's terrier(? maybe terrier) side is in full force. She snifs every little nook and cranny looking for varmints. Sometimes, she gets up on the hill side, alone. Zoe consistently looks for Sneek if she isn't with the pack. If Sneek falls behind, Zoe goes to her and shows her the way to Jake and I.

We were on the bridge last night and Sneek wasn't - she was down by the water, on the wrong trail. Sneek still won't cross thru the water. The look on Sneek's face was almost panic - she couldn't' figure out how to get to us - without getting in the water. We were all the way thru the bridge and Zoe ran all the way back, to get Sneek. She got Sneek to follow her onto the right path...I was simply amazed at how Zoe knew what to do...

Good girl Zoe..

WW - What I want to plant in my backyard

2009-06-24T01:01:00.001-06:00

Weekend of w00ts!

2009-06-15T21:40:00.016-06:00

What a fun filled, goal meeting weekend we had! We went to St George to attend a flyball tournament. I took Jake, Sneek and Zoe with me.

Jake started off really really rough; not sure what it was about. After his lack of stellar performance during the first heat, I took him to see Anita -who is on site. He was a warm on his left front leg. So, she worked on him and I iced him a little afterward. Needless to say, whatever it was - it went away. He seemed to run better after that. So, Sunday I had her massage him prior to racing again. She said the front left leg wasn't warm at all. Whatever the issue was on Saturday, it had gone away. Maybe he stepped on something or bumped it or twisted it - heck I don't know....

So many amazing things happened this weekend for our flyball team. ...Our dogs ROCKED. Lots of personal bests for our dogs....Seriously, we did so well and met the two goals we had going down - ok 4; tailwind to take first place in their division both days (met), HR not break out (met), not run faster than 18 seconds (met) and to qualify for the U-FLI Championship (met).

I was blessed to run not one, but two dogs this weekend. I got to run Hannah B - which is so much fun!! She is an amazing flyball dog - and so darn fast!!! She is just a spitball of fire and such a sweet girl who has come so far...
Jake also earned his Top Flight Premier title. For those unfamiliar with titles - every race a dog completes, they earn points. At certain point levels, you earn titles. So Jake had enough points for the TFP title..Our next title goal is Top Flight Expert - which is a milestone plaque. He needs a total of 20,000 points for that big title. So only 10,500 more points to go...Average 500 points a race day - so that is only 11 more tournaments, give or take a day.. So, that would be in about 3 years :) That is if, God willing, he will still be racing then....

We also had tons and tons of fun, starting with a good dinner on Friday evening. We were all pretty darn goofy Sunday - lack of sleep or just too much sugar - I am not really sure.. Just really good times - with lots of laughs, some silly string and way too much junk food! There are some crazy photos of us out there - including some of me - but I will save those for a later WW post...I just love my flyball team mates!!!

Everything was done and over with around 7:30 Sunday. I I had decided earlier that I was going to stay in Saint George Sunday evening. I had Monday off, and well - why not stay in St George and relax... Plus, our teammates mentioned a reservoir right down the road. I thought it would be kind of cool to take the dogs swimming. So we met Zoey, River, and Bailey to swim. Some people and pups from Phoenix Fuzion came over too.

Here are Jake and Zoe - I know it is difficult to see the dogs in the photo, but the scenery is just beautiful. As tired as Jake was - he was still swimming non stop!

Zoe loved it!Sneek got pretty far out chasing the ball - but still she did not swim. She was so funny - she kept running up to all the humans to throw a ball for her.
It was hard for me to turn north on the hwy instead of south. I really wanted to stay in Saint George or travel a little more to another place for the dogs to swim and play. One day - I will take the week off after a tournament. I can stay in St George to play, drive to Lake Mead, and then onto California - to the beach... One can dream right?

ps thanks Heidi for taking that awesome shot of Jake and I...

WW - Hump Day

2009-06-10T08:23:00.001-06:00

Catching Up

2009-06-07T07:57:00.013-06:00

I haven't been updating the blog recently. It has been crazy, busy at work and well, I am kind of addicted to Face Book! LOL I can update my page straight from the crackberry. But I realized, it would be good to take time and update my blog. This blog is for me - yep I am selfish. I want to be able to look back and see the things the dogs and I have done so far. Sure, I can do that on FB but it is a little harder. To me the blog is more a diary of the fun, the accomplishments, and the struggles the dogs and I walk thru life....

So, here are some updates...

Maddie - Her rash came back a little over a week ago, but this time under her front leg shoulders. We got some more cream from our vet and i loaded her up on benadryl. Happy to say it has now gone away. But I wonder as to what is causing this? It has to be some weed in the yard. Right now she has the zoomies, and is doing her Pitty cry to go outside.....

Zoe - Zoe has returned to flyball. It is good for her to have a job - good exercise for her. She isn't fast - and that is ok. When she learns the game, she can just run singles or doubles. I am concerned with her back legs - but if we take it easy she should be ok. Zoe also attended Splash Dogs this past weekend. She actually jumped off the dock; not far but she jumped two out of the three rounds I took her up to the big pool. I was excited for her. Not sure why she wouldn't jump the last round. A friend suggested she might be tired - that is no excuse - LOL

Jake - Participated in the annual SYM where we did a flyball demo and Course A Lure. At SYM, Jake was the third fastest dog out of almost 350 sets of paws running the course. I was excited for him. He was beat by Sneek and our fellow flyball team mate, Zoey. He did well at the flyball demo. You can see a video of my dogs and fellow teammates running CAL, and the flyball demo here. Our fellow flyball team mate made an amazing video of the day. I love not only how he captured a little bit of everything - but the team work that went into the day. He and his wife are amazing asset to UTB. Jake also attended Splash Dogs and CAL this weekend. On Friday, he ran a 14.02 at CAL (again beat by his sister, Sneek, who ran 13.96). He swam tons in the practice pool and off the ramp in big pool,but for some reason - he just won't jump off the dock. I was disappointed but well, have to accept Jake for who he is...

Sneek - She is attending a beginning agility class on Tuesday's. This past week she completed the pinwheel jumps on her first try.. She also completed her first sequence - 3 jumps and the tunnel. (side note - first CAL runs - she wouldn't go in the tunnel - agility has helped her now complete the tunnel at CAL). She really loves to run and take the obstacles at agility.
She too participated at CAL at SYM - 2nd fastest dog - woot! She also participated in CAL this past weekend, beating her brother with a 13.96 run. She lived up to her name, by figuring out how to open the side door on the crate. SNEEK! I tried to get her to swim in the practice pool - no go. She was so fixated on CAL - the minute she heard the sound of the pully her focus was on the course. So, no Splash Dogs for Sneek.
So, that is a short update on the pack and our doings....In between the big events, we Rollerblade, flyball, work on our box turns, housework, make meetings, eat, sleep, potty, work, lol. We have some full days in our house. Heck, I even forgot to grocery shop last week. Nothing like Atkin shakes, apples and cheese for lunch!

I swear I need three of me just to keep up with our busy schedule! But, life is meant to be lived to the fullest - and I believe I am trying to do that. I want to be able to look back when I am 90 and know that I gave my dogs, and me, the chance to engage in life....After all - isn't life what you make it????

WW - Mom, Please Take Us With You!!!!

2009-06-03T08:26:00.003-06:00

Good Times!

2009-05-31T07:28:00.009-06:00

WOW - what an amazing Saturday.

Sneek, Jake, and I attend the annual Strut your Mutt event in Salt Lake City. We did not strut, per say - but participated in CAL and a flyball demo.

We had way too much fun! The day went fast and the dogs ran well. Most of the day we hung out with our flyball team mates and other good dog friends helping at Course A Lure. I always enjoy watching different dogs run the course. We even got to see our good friend and favorite trainer, Anna, from Puppenschnoodles.

We participated in a flyball demo. It was so darn hot - Jake kept sneaking off the field to find water after his run. I felt so bad for him. It's hard to be a black dog in the hot blazing sun. Thank goodness we do indoor tournaments.

I wish we had more Saturday's like yesterday. I enjoy the company of dog friends, team mates, my pups, and the other dogs in our life.

Sorry, no pics in this post - way too flipping busy to play with the crackberry - LOL

But, out of around 350 dogs who ran the Course A Lure, Sneek was the 2nd fastest! I am sure Jake was in the top 10, but will have to wait to verify. Our good dog friend Zoey, from our flyball team, was the FASTEST dog at CAL on Saturday! w00t! Edit: Jake placed third!!!!

Gearing up for the next event; Wild Outdoors Festival, next weekend at Thanksgiving Point. There will be Splash Dogs and Course a Lure. I decided to use some of the 180 hours of vacation I have and take Friday off. The dogs will swim in the practice pool at Splash Dogs, and run their paws thru CAL. FUN FUN FUN!

WW - Another Blast from the Past

2009-05-27T07:56:00.003-06:00

St. Thomas the Apostle girls soccer team - sometime in the '70's.

Black Pack Walk

2009-05-26T08:09:00.007-06:00

I decided to take the dogs down to the Sandy Gully yesterday. What a beautiful walk!! The water was FLOWING!!
Sneek was very unsure of the cold water..
But once we got to the end, I got in and she followed.
Then she saw the water falls
A little scary at first....

But she then decided it was a huge sprinkler...So, she decided it was really COOL!She was so brave.

Good times for us

Vick Story Continues

2009-05-22T13:35:00.007-06:00

The details that got to me then and stay with me today involve the swimming pool that was used to kill some of the dogs. Jumper cables were clipped onto the ears of underperforming dogs, then, just like with a car, the cables were connected to the terminals of car batteries before lifting and tossing the shamed dogs into the water....."

"I can't shake my minds-eye image of a little black dog splashing frantically ... screaming in pain and terror ... brown eyes saucer wide and tiny black white-toed feet clawing at anything, desperate to get ahold. This death did not come quickly...."
Donna from BAD RAP

This week Vick was released from prison. I haven't blogged about it. Vick is working out a deal to be a spokesperson for HSU. Makes me ill. Of course, HSU wants me to get rid of my breakstick and my treadmill - signs of a dog fighter they say....That is a whole different topic

Someone asked BAD RAP's their thoughts on if Vick is sincerely remorseful.. After reading the response on their recent post, and feeling the tears streaming down my cheek, I had to share. There is too much emotion for me not too.

Here is the link to the blog post.

Again, RIP dogs...

WW - Are They Serving Ice Water in Hell?????

2009-05-20T06:19:00.003-06:00

Houston, We Have a Problem

2009-05-18T20:44:00.004-06:00

Great - now she thinks the ledge is a trampoline.

Notice in the below photo there are no feet on the ledge...

No wonder she is tired when I get home from work.

Jake says "Watch out... Here I come!"

2009-05-13T23:07:00.004-06:00

Ever since the rimadyl incident, I don't like to post about where we might be going this weekend. I am afraid to talk about it .So i won't tell you all - but will let the photos tell the story.

Yea - his ,off the box, isn't anything to write home about - but Jake gives it all he has. He gives Flyball every ounce of energy and every single beat of his heart. I couldn't ask for a better dog...Love you Jake! Let's Line UP!

WW - She made a liar out of me!

2009-05-13T07:42:00.002-06:00

Two for Tuesday...

2009-05-12T07:24:00.011-06:00

Sneek and I have a busy evening planned. We have two classes tonight; one at 6:00 and one at 8:30.

We are completing our Reliable Recall class this evening. We are sad because we have LOVED this class . I would take the class again if I could! The Really Reliable Recall class followed the protocol of Leslie Nelson's DVD. I have really enjoyed the class leader, Leslie D. We have played many games, - name game,1-2-3 game, hide and seek, and recalls - dog by self and side by side. That is just the tip of the iceberg on the things we have learned. I love that Leslie uses Susan Garrett's philosophy during her teaching. She also emphasizes the bond you need to create with your dog.

So, since we have enjoyed her class so much, we decided to take another one! We will be starting basic agility tonight. I am not planning on doing agility with Sneek. I have just so enjoyed Leslie's teaching style, and the one on one bond time with Sneek, I decided to take another class. We are taking this class just for fun and for additional knowledge. She will touch on toy drive in her class - and that is right up Sneek's alley. I am sure many things she will teach in class can be used in our flyball training and continue to increase Sneek's work ethic.

A busy, but fun evening planned for the little angel below. Doesn't she look just so innocent in the below photo? More like the cat who swallowed the canary :)

Is Jake a star?

2009-05-08T08:04:00.007-06:00

Last summer, at one of the Course A Lure events, a team came out to make a new video for CAL.

The video is now posted on You Tube and the Course A Lure website.

Below is the video. WOW! I wonder who that handsome, fast, adorable, with the green collar, black lab featured in the beginning, middle, and end of the video is?? - hehe

Looking So Much Better

2009-05-07T08:07:00.006-06:00

I took the above photo this morning after 3 days of medication, no licking and ointment (which is on her belly when I took this shot).

It is looking so much better than before, but she still has some of the red blisters. I am concerned that they are still there, but I figure I need to give the meds and ointment some time to work.

She is still coming to work with me because she enjoys fighting the evil cone - and she usually wins. But, if she is in her crate, then there is no way for her to combat the cone. Unfortunately, this makes her a very hyper, high strung dog by time I get home.

On a side note, Sneek is a little put off by the cone. This morning, she was trying to check the cone out. Of course, Maddie wasn't too happy and started to chase her. But, score one for Sneek when she started to bat at the cone with her paw and then run away. I let her do it a few times, because - well it was funny - but I then ended the game. She, once again, lived up to her name; "Sneek Attack".

WW - Now I can see!

2009-05-06T01:46:00.001-06:00

WTH is this???

2009-05-04T08:13:00.008-06:00

Thursday, I noticed Maddie had a small sore on her belly. I was sure it was from her long line rubbing on her. Put some Vitamin E on it - thinking it would help
I came home last night, and this is what I saw. WTH is that?

Off to the vet

Update

Vet said she is having an allergic reaction in combo with a sever bacterial infection.
So, benadryl, cream for her belly, antibiotics, and , Maddie's favorite, a cone. She is with me at work hanging out in her crate in the car. Lord knows, if I left her at home, the cone would be in 50 pieces.

My Little Hot Head

2009-04-30T12:45:00.005-06:00

While working on Jake, the holistic vet took photos of Sneek's head while she was sitting pretty in the chair .

They are pretty darn cute . Love to get one on a t-shirt.
Her blue nose cracks me up!

WW - Where's the Party??!!

2009-04-29T04:36:00.003-06:00

Sneek Attack!!!!!!!

2009-04-26T17:49:00.014-06:00

At the last minute, I decided to go to Course A Lure to watch a friends dogs run , see Jake's fellow flyball team mates, and visit with human friends . The rain had stopped, the sun was peaking thru, and my meds were kicking in. I changed out of my PJ's and jumped into the E. I decided to take Sneek with me. I really questioned if she would have any interest in CAL.

Does the below photo answer the " interest"question?

That is right folks; first time at Course A Lure and little PITA Sneek, won a gold medal for her fastest course time of 11.6. I couldn't flipping believe it! She took to the course like a fish takes to water. I was full of wonder and amazement watching her run. She just kept getting faster and faster...I have a feeling, Sneek is going to give Jake some stiff competition on the CAL field. I can't wait until the next CAL and the battle between Jake and Sneek for the fastest dog in the house!

Sneek,
Congrats on your very first award! I was full of pride and joy placing the ribbon around your neck. It was a special moment for me, Sneek; a very special moment for us.
love, the mom lady

Iz Sore Mom!

2009-04-25T06:12:00.007-06:00

Don't you wish your animals could verbally tell you when they are in pain? I guess in a way they can but they also tell you a lot about pain thru body language - but you need to be able to read your dogs body language to see they are. Something I am not very good at. But the longer you have your dog, the more attune you become to normal and abnormal.

Jake's right hind leg has been off. When we saw our holistic vet yesterday, I told her that. But it wasn't his right, it was his left rear leg. She said I probably thought it was his right because he was over compensating on his right rear for the left being sore. On the thermo scan, his left rear was very hot. She also said his left rear was extremely tight and sore . So, she did an adjustment and then we did some acupuncture - which Jake just about fell asleep during - lol. She suggested 48 hours of rest (no CAL for you Jake - sorry) and lots of stretching. So glad we were able to get him in prior to a month of flyball tournaments.

Sneek made her debut at the office. I wanted to get a reading on her and an adjustment, especially after all the wall turns we have been doing. The doc was very very smitten with Sneek; and Sneek smitten with the vet. It was so darn cute! Sneek was an angel sitting in the chair as Jake was adjusted. Watching Sneek, we both agreed she if very observant - and very good at problem solving. We also discussed what breeds she might be. We spoke about Sneek's known history; which concerned the vet as she assumed Sneek's muscle system would be very out of whack and the toxins that could be in her system. The doc ran the thermo and it was clean - normal spots were there but nothing out of the ordinary! We were both very happy. The vet did say that because of her muscle structure, especially the size of the muscles in her back legs, if she has a strain or a pull, it will be a doozie. We have to make sure she is warmed up, stretched, and cooled down to prevent that from happening. She also gave Sneek a high does of Nux Vomice to help rid her body of the toxins. By the end of the visit, she was sure that Sneek's body and ears were that of a Whippet and she may have some Staffshire Terrier or Boxer in there.

I am so grateful to have the opportunity and the funds to be able to take my dogs to this vet. In the long run, I believe the benefits they receive from the visit and the knowledge she shares with me, is well worth the drive to Park City and the money I spend. But, as you might of assumed, I would drive to the ends of the earth and sell everything I have to make sure they are healthy and happy....

Event filled weekend

2009-04-23T08:44:00.009-06:00

There are many dog events this weekend in the Salt Lake City Area.

So, if you are in SLC, here are the events!

APA All Breed Weight Pull in American Fork -Yep, it is here!
Friday and Saturday 4/24 and 4/25 click above to read specific information.
This is a very cool event and hosted by a new all breed weight pull club in Utah County. One of the guys putting on the show, is a visitor at my store. They are so nice! Here is a photo of his Rosie: They practice on Saturday at 1:00.So if you are interested, check out the weight pull event and get more practice info from them. Again, the guys that run this club are awesome and very responsible breeders. Their dogs all come from Championship lines, health tested and they follow the Breeders Code of Ethics
Agility Trial 4/25 and 4/26 at the South Jordan Equestrian Center. I am hoping to go watch some of my favorite BC's and ACD's run..

And last, but not least, Course A Lure is at the HS of Utah Saturday 4/25 and Sunday 4/26 starting at 10:00 am each day. Jake is very excited, and well so am I. I would love to try Sneek on the course. Lord knows, she has prey drive. It became very apparent, when I fell on my @ss in the back yard and almost lost my arm, while she whipped into prey drive chasing one of the outdoor cats (stop laughing!) Thank God for my leather leash and prior gymnastic training on the proper way to fall - lol

WW - My Other Splurge

2009-04-22T10:30:00.003-06:00

What isn't a wall?????

2009-04-20T08:49:00.006-06:00

So Sneek is doing very well on her wall turns. I am working on making them tighter and with more lunge.

But, now I have created a monster! No seriously, she is now doing the wall turn on anything she can - chair, couch, window ledge, and the front window...Yep, I said it - the front window...I came home and saw her do it . I thought maybe I was wrong; and I told Billy what I saw. He said - oh yea she does it when she is really excited. It's usually the window ledge, but sometimes I see her have all four feet on the front window....

WTH??!! Praying she doesn't hurt herself. Glad she enjoys her new trick so much. Hopefully, it will transfer to the box.

Sneek gets the Evil Green Snake

2009-04-17T08:41:00.011-06:00

Sneek got to play with the evil snake last night. We wondered if she would like water or not.

She looked like a wet rat by time her play was done.
Billy loves to egg her and Maddie on.....(check out her muscles in her back legs on this photo...BABY GOT BACK!)
The ability to swim is yet to be seen. I can't wait until it warms up so I can see if she can actually swim...

Jake and Zoe were out there too. They just watched her like she was absolutely crazy and saying to themselves, "You terrier's are NUTS".

WW - We're just waiting on a birdie....

2009-04-15T06:26:00.008-06:00

I have buds!

2009-04-13T07:51:00.004-06:00

I planted lilac and snowball bushes last year. I was a little worried that they would not bloom this year. I don't exactly have a green thumb...But to my pleasant surprise, my lilac bushes have buds. I was so excited when I saw them yesterday.

I love the smell of the lilac. Growing up, we had a huge huge lilac bush by the drive way. I loved smelling the lilacs when I would come home and open the car door. My mother loved it also. My father did too, except when it got so big and crowded the garage door. He did get in trouble a few times for cutting it too short. Imagine that - I can remember those arguments!

I think that is part of the reason I planted so many lilac bushes - not only the smell, but as a way to remember home, a way to honor our Mom...

Changes for Bust Dog Survivors

2009-04-11T07:03:00.003-06:00

The HSUS and pro pit bull groups met in Vegas earlier this month to discuss Bust Dog Survivors. This was such a necessary Summit, especially after what happened to the Westside Kennel dogs.

To read about the outcome, please visit this post on the Bad Rap Blog.

It is good news!

Thanks to all the groups who went to bat for the dogs confiscated during fight bust raids.

I splurged!

2009-04-09T10:55:00.008-06:00

So, I was able to get out of my contract with Qwest wireless with no charge - finally. And since I did not want to switch to Verizon, who is now the carrier for Qwest wireless, I canceled my contract.

I decided to go with T-mobile so Billy and I can do the family plan. Monday, I went to get a phone and, oh boy, did I splurge. I am now a member of the crackberry club!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I purchased a Blackberry Curve 8900. I can't stop playing with with my new toy! I am able to check all my email accounts, FB, twitter, blogs, forums, etc right from the phone. I also downloaded Vlingo. I can just talk into the phone and it will type whatever I am saying to whatever application I choose (text, email, google maps, etc). I can also sycronize my contacts, tasks, and calender from my microsoft outlook to my crackberry. How useful is that??!!

So, I am now having way too much fun. The camera on the BB isn't the best, but it is so much better than I had before...

WW - Wonderwall

2009-04-08T06:02:00.002-06:00

note to self: move the TV!

Iz Get You - Evilz Greez Znake

2009-04-06T17:52:00.012-06:00

Maddie will save her Daddy from the green monster! Leave my Daddy's truck alone!

As a side note, after 3 years with no tail issues - this morning Maddie had her first bloody Happy Tail incident. It's not too bad - just scared me when I saw blood all over the kitchen pantry door. Her and her Daddy were playing a little too ruff this morning..