Talking Cardis

No longer so impressed

2011-09-23T21:11:00.000-07:00

Upon discovering that the balloon people didn't have cookies . . .

Excitement over the back fence

2011-09-23T20:27:00.000-07:00

The dogs rushed outside this evening, barking at the activity in the park. When we went out to see what was going on, we realized the annual balloon festival had begun.

My New Toy

2011-08-09T09:53:00.000-07:00

We have gone to a couple horse-type events this summer, one at a local rodeo. At the vendor booths, Kirk observed a nice wood saddle rack, commenting, "I could build you one of those."

A couple weeks later, lots of sawing and sanding going on in the garage. The result is a wonderful, new saddle rack, with both a fixed shelf and removable tray. I've been in tack cleaning mode and can vouch for its wonderful utility through three saddles and the many other parts and pieces that needed cleaning and oiling. Thanks, sweetie!

Limited Evidence

2011-08-09T09:48:00.000-07:00

Photo from aforementioned death-march. It was a great day and a very long trek. After this picture was taken, Kirk put the big camera in the car and we forgot to check that we had the little one, thus it is the only documentation of our adventure other than sore muscles.

Hike, AKA Death March!

2011-07-30T16:41:00.000-07:00

Truly, we went on a great hike today. Carson was today's trail dog and did very well. We went up a trail in Lamoille Canyon. Of course, forgot the camera and the wildflowers were amazing. However, we went up a little used trail, lost it about 2/3 of the way up and bush-whacked (literally) from there, over snow fields (very scary), through all sorts of scrub/shrubbery on high angle slopes, until we could cross the very much rushing stream. August is a couple days away, and this was like hiking at high run-off, very unusual.

My feet, knees and back (Kim K, you have my everlasting empathy) were screaming bloody murder with an hour yet to go; all down-hill, of course. For those who don't know, down is way worse than up.

Fortunately, Carson went on a little independent safari into the bushes just before we reached the car. He found the perfect gravelly spot in the stream, both for him to lay in and for me to wade in, shoes and socks still on. Heaven.

With any luck at all, wine and anti-inflammatories (yes, I know the inherent risks and really don't care) will cure my arthritic joints' noisy complaints. Carson is flat and happy, napping on the floor.

Poor Carson

2011-07-13T20:38:00.000-07:00

Carson has been the Velcro dog since Leidy left, following me closely everywhere I go. I think he expects me to produce Leidy out of my pocket, or open the door and let her in. When I went to the gym today, he didn't want to go outside, but insisted on laying under the dining room table, a reproachful look on his face. I feel very guilty, being as I am the one who sent her to Oregon and Huxley. Granted, it was for a good cause, but my Carson seems to be quite unhappy.

Blackfoot Show Pictures

2011-07-11T11:51:00.000-07:00

Well, I look like a goober, but Carson didn't turn out too bad, even naked. It was fun and great to be back in the show ring. Photo credit: Bob Kohler

But, there are no flowers . . .

2011-06-28T14:40:00.001-07:00

We took an early morning drive up Lamoille Canyon this morning, hoping for spring wildflowers. Though we had a heavy snow year, with June coming to a close I anticipated the flower show would be coming on. Boy, was I wrong. It was a good thing I had thrown in some jeans and my Gortex hiking boots. There was water everywhere and snow at the top in quantity. The trees barely had leaves and the melt water was making new streams all over the paths and trailhead parking area. The dogs had a ball playing in the snow and water, so they will have to serve as my "flowers" for this photo outing.

Summer, finally, and a win at the dog show

2011-06-28T14:26:00.000-07:00

While we were away at the Blackfoot show, where it was still winter, summer arrived in Elko.

It was a nice gift to come home to after a windy, cold, rainy five days in Blackfoot.

The good new is, Carson got a 3 point major while we were there, though he was very naked at the time. There's a picture coming in honor of his first points.

Snowshoeing in Lamoille Canyon

2010-12-27T10:42:00.001-08:00

We went for a winter hike on snow shoes, up Lamoille Canyon yesterday, 12/27. Greg and Jack came with us; fun was had by all, not to mention a great workout. Our destination was the stream coming down the mountain at Thomas Creek campground. We made it, as the pictures show. It was a long trek, though, and dusk was falling as we returned to the car. I was sorry not to be able to take the corgis, but the deep snow is beyond what their short legs can handle. Jack porpoised his way up the hills, having a good time, but was glad when we got back down to the road where some snowmobiles had come through.

Christmas Fun

2010-12-26T07:30:00.001-08:00

I've had a great time this Christmas holiday. We've gone to movies, shopped, cooked, decorated, and have a ski trip planned for this coming week. Here are a few photos from yesterday as we celebrated and generally enjoyed each other's company.Here we have the great cookie artists, preparing for their masterpiece.

The finished art work - the Fearsome Gingerbread Pirate of Elko. He's mostly fearsome because of his bad attitude, the result of finding we didn't have a decent sized lake, let alone an ocean.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Puppy Pictures

2010-12-26T06:41:00.001-08:00

Leidy had puppies this fall with Chase, of Elyan Cardigans. His momma, Penni, leased Leidy for the litter and we had four puppies. I went down to Albuquerque for the puppy party and had a wonderful time. Here are some shots of the kids.
First is Reba, now known as Nola, who will be staying with Penni.

Next is Smooch, turbo-charged spit-fire.

Then, we have Udi, a big lover-boy.

Last, but not least is Victor, the snuggliest one of the bunch.

All of the puppies were very consistent, social, and of course, ruthlessly cute.

Christmas Eve Adventures and Updates

2010-12-26T06:07:00.000-08:00

Updates first; we did move to town. As planned, Chanda and Herb wanted to rent my place in Spring Creek, so Whoopy has roommates and I have great horse caretakers for him. Three of the dogs are with me, Carson, Emma and Jack. Snickers, the Chihuahua, went to live with my friend, Cathy Lampo, to be the spoiled princess and supervise a very friendly, happy pit named Achilles.

Kirk's son, Greg, is here for the holiday. He, Kirk and Jack went snowshoeing Christmas eve and had a great adventure climbing a very steep hillside. Jack was thrilled. Alas, neither Carson nor Emma have the legs for such things, so they got to go for a more sedate walk through the neighborhood with me. Pictures from Jack's great adventure tell the story.

Triumph!

Changes, more, still, yet

2010-08-17T11:29:00.000-07:00

It's been tough to think about dog things since Bridger's exit, beyond holding them close and wishing for anything but what happened. Things are changing, however, and the hairy children have been working hard to fill the hole left by his passing. Leidy Lou will be providing "cousins," if things go well, so puppies are in the future. Thank you Penni and Carolyn.

The biggest change may occur in the next few weeks. I've met someone. Based on the picture, it is safe to assume it's fairly serious.

We, at least most of us, may move into town again in a few weeks. Some will go to Wyoming to hang out with Mark once he's less busy with some volunteer work for the local gun club.

Whoopy will likely stay out here in Spring Creek, taken care of by the friends from whom I purchased him, who want to rent my house. I'll come out to ride, take care of him, and visit. Things seem to be working out.

If all goes approximately as planned (assuming nothing, mind you), I may even get to go to some dog shows with Carson. He seems markedly unenthused, but I miss enjoying the company of other doggy folks and all of the waggy tails.

Whoopy and me

2010-01-02T19:23:00.000-08:00

We are not glamorous, but we are getting to know each other. As you may surmise from the photo, it was a very cold day, even in the arena. Whoopy was a very good boy. My friend, Carla, insisted we should have a picture, especially since I don't think I've ever had one of me riding.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T18:47:00.000-08:00

It was a fun Thanksgiving. We cooked and are now awaiting cooling pies (recipe circa 1959), not to mention stomach space for said pies.

There are two new family members at my house these days. First is Snickers, a long-haired Chihuahua I inherited from one of my students. Snickers had a tough time living in an apartment and was causing quite a bit of stress for her young owners, eating things like carpets and woodwork. Here, she gets to go outside all day, play with the corgis and cats, and do lots of appropriate canine activities. She had to learn to be a dog, but now that she has, she is on her way to ruling the roost.

The other new addition arrived today. His name is Whoopy, a silly but appropriate version of his registered name, Zhane's Last Hurrah. He is a 3/4 Arabian, 1/4 Quarter Horse gelding, a youngster of a mere three and a half years. However, he is a very mellow boy. We had a great first afternoon. I got my first horse kiss. In fact, Whoopy did a great imitation of a Laborador Retriever. I'm not entirely sure he is a horse, though the pictures seem to confirm it.

Whoopy was started this summer. He has a great, floaty trot and is a willing, if as yet inexperienced, riding partner. We will be taking a bunch of lessons and I am anticipating loads of work, but hopefully loads of fun to go with it.

We are a thankful bunch here and here's hoping everyone else's holiday was at least as blessed.

Company with coffee

2009-11-01T08:06:00.001-08:00

Opened the door to let a cat in, and saw these guys enjoying the beautiful morning.

It made for a nice bit of company with my "thank God daylight savings time is over" coffee.

Bridger 2/18/02 - 9/20/09

2009-09-21T11:48:00.000-07:00

There are no words for how it feels when they die in your arms. The logic of an end to suffering cannot touch the loss.

Rest in peace, my heart. If someday I look back and was half the person you were as a dog, it will have been a more worthy goal than any I could have come up with myself.

A morning smile . . .

2009-08-06T09:15:00.000-07:00

While reading a chat list, I came across this quote. People often ask if I have children, and seem suprised when I respond that I do not. Not sure if this is a comment on my apparent suitablility as a parent (not), my profession or my age.

"If I wanted to hear the pitter patter of little feet, I'd put shoes on my cat."

I'm sorely tempted to use it the next time the question is asked. Although at my place, all pitter-patters are noisy, accompanied by hair, and none of them, including the cats, are ever quiet unless someone is getting into trouble.

Stop Thief!

2009-07-29T19:52:00.000-07:00

The crew had chicken wings for dinner. It was Cesca's first raw meal. She figured it out pretty quick, but not before the kittens were hijacking whichever wing she wasn't working on and hauling off their prey for their own dinner! No pictures, I was too busy supervising and making sure Cesca didn't lose her dinner entirely. May have to read up on raw diets for kitties because they had no issues with knowing what to do.

The Mom

2009-07-24T22:31:00.000-07:00

Leidy is playing momma to my new venture into border collies. Cesca (pronounced Chesca) came to me from the local shelter, about 3.5 mos. old. Carson said bad words to her this evening. Leidy told her not to worry.

Miss Leidy is also mothering both Starr and the newest kitten, Frost. Both of them "nurse" in the evenings. Leidy is Not lactating, but both kitties latch on, purring madly, then all fall asleep. It's strange, Leidy won't let them do it during the day. But at night she must think they need comfort and security. The sucking noises are really odd when they all join me on the bed at night.

Ready for a dog show - finally!

2009-07-21T13:02:00.000-07:00

Now to round up some cash and pick a likely event. Washed everyone and they looked so good I was inspired.

Carson was not happy with the blow drying process, but he perked right up when it was time for treats. In fact, from the pictures you'd think he's quite impressed with himself.

Leidy - still looking very good, though she said it was too hot to be blow-dried.

Wax on, wax off!

2009-07-21T12:52:00.001-07:00

Detailed my truck and he looked so good! Well, except for the passenger side mirror and the dog blanket over the back seat. But still, it's been a while since I did a detail job and the shiny little red truck seemed to appreciate it.

Fuzzy Flier

2009-06-16T15:30:00.000-07:00

This was such a cool visitor on the fender of my horse trailer.

View down the road

2009-06-13T12:24:00.000-07:00

It's been a stressful year, what with Della and Bridger's issues, financial worries, starting the master's degree, burying some cats and an uncle, buying a truck, and becoming horse-satan (note to self: do not worm pissy mares, let the vet do it.).

The plan is to sell the horse for a more tractable, less hot, equine, if I can find anyone who wants a big, blue-blood AQHA ex-racer. Maybe even ditch the trailer, for now. However, at some point, I do want another horse and I'll keep working with the Flirt-monster until I find her a home.

With Della and Bridger clearly out of the show picture, Emma long retired since her back injury and Gannett becoming, as Julie so eloquently demonstrated, our "ancient one," I'm down to Leidy and Carson to take to the dog shows. May have to look for some pupsters in the near future. My retirees can raise them and show them the ropes (no, Leidy, you do not get to help!), and hopefully we'll avoid passing along criminal tendencies.

I'm thinking dog shows are a more laudable set of goals than a master's degree - too bad I can't get Federal funding for them. More later.

On a happier note . . .

2009-06-13T12:06:00.001-07:00

The crew is engaged in kitten-raising again. Leidy and Carson think it is their particular duty, though Leidy truly loves her job and her kitty.

Starr was due to go to the animal shelter to join the rest of her litter, when the folks who found them also discovered that their adult cats would not tolerate a kitten. Some of these folks included two of my students and they really twisted my arm (NOT) to take the kitty. Starr-girl came home with me two weeks before school ended, all of five weeks old. She has fit in well. Even my about to be neutered tom, Geo, has taken on kitty-care.

Della is the only completely unethusiastic member of the troupe, preferring the company of anyone but the kitty. I was almost done taking pictures when Starr tried to snuggle with Della. Della immediately decamped to the other sofa, where her mother could protect her.

Bridger - hoping for a better year

2009-06-13T11:52:00.001-07:00

Bridger has had a tough 12 months. After a deer trampling and an Airdale chomping, he started to get skinny, REALLY skinny. Many x-rays and vet consultations later, it was decided that we would x-ray with a barium trace. There was a shadow. Exploratory surgery found that the shadow was some cellophane and a handful of small, sharp pieces of plastic. They didn't pass, as they normally would have, due to a thickening of the small intestine. The vets took out around 18 inches and sent some of the thickened tissue off to a lab for microscopic examination. The news was not good - adenocarcinoma, inoperable.

After looking into treatment and finding that what was available gained only a month or two and had worse side effects than having cancer, we will just let it be. Bridger is feeling better now that he is eating again, chasing Gannett, the old man, around the living room and bossing everyone else around. We'll keep him a happy boy for as long as we can - he deserves the best.

Della

2008-12-28T21:20:00.000-08:00

My Dellie-Bellie, who has a very sore belly right now, wish there was a way for you to know how much I love you. All those supremely stupid human things mean nothing by comparison, and I will gladly sacrifice them all for you. Perhaps that is what they were for in the first place.
See you soon, my little hopper. We're coming.

New ventures

2008-12-06T20:58:00.000-08:00

Started on another long-time goal today. Had a significant conversation with University of Phoenix about starting one of the three master's degrees I'd like to have. If financial aid comes through, I could start classes as soon as the end of the month. While it's a big commitment, if I intend to teach for any length of time, it will contribute greatly to my earning capability. Wish I could say it would contribute to my teaching, but like most of education, education masters are still pretty mired in "romantic" and unsuccessful methods from the early 1900's. On the plus side, the more labels one has, the more credibility, so perhaps I can use the degree to contribute to some positive changes to both the program and teaching.

So, the application for admission and the application for financial aide are both finished. Fingers crossed it all works out. Watching PBS, Dr. Dyer says you can be inspired to cause something to manifest if you believe it passionately enough. Time to believe.

Strange things

2008-11-19T20:10:00.000-08:00

Had a bad dream yesterday, just before I woke up. It involved trapped corgi legs, that looked like white feet with red brindle tops, so I called the ex-Mark, and made sure the red brindle children were ok. All was well. The feeling intensified over the course of the day. Came home to a small, black kitten, who had pulled a folded up x-pen over on himself (it's been there more than a month, secure, no issues. What happened?). After who knows how many hours pinned to the cold, tile floor in the kitchen, he was both hypothermic and in shock, other injuries notwithstanding. Even with triage, he passed on to the island, hopefully to await me with Troll and Lucy, this morning.

Told the vet about this, as well as the three year waiting period on kitties before you can be sure of them, and he said I also started his day. He had three dogs in with broken legs, due to trapped appendages, today. Don't want to remember any more dreams.

Carson is very subdued - he loved his Digit. Though my kitty was secure this morning, warm and as comfortable as I could make him, Carson bathed him and nudged him further under the covers this morning while I was in the shower. I emerged from the bathroom to find Carson next to Digit, who had been carefully scooted across his blankie to a spot up against the pillows, just under the comforter. Carson apparently thought Digit would be warmer there, and laid next to him to be sure. I feel bad, both for little Digit's crummy ending, and for Carson, who obviously loved his little cat. Brother Geo, thought working manfully to stand in, is more reserved. We shall see if he can be Carson's friend as well.

Rest peacefully, little Digit. I miss you.

Rotten, cranky herbivore!

2008-11-04T17:51:00.000-08:00

Ok, she's a bitch in horse clothes. Obnoxious thing kicked me this evening; apparently pissed off that it's cold and snowy, or some such nonsense. Then she had the temerity to get all worried when I whacked her on the butt, yelled at her and chased her around the corral. Now, I realize that my horse and I are well matched, but it would be abuse if I left bruises on her chest. Be interesting to see what she has to say in the morning, the worthless hayburner. Bet she makes up so she gets her beet pulp and apples.

Picture of my Wing-nut?

2008-11-02T21:27:00.001-08:00

Well, you did ask!

You know it's a windy day when,

2008-11-02T21:15:00.000-08:00

The UPS delivery person puts rocks on your package to keep it from blowing away.

Yes, Kate . . .

2008-11-02T13:45:00.000-08:00

It's true, Kate said, "Post more, G**D*****!" so here goes.

In the past seven months, a few things have happened, more than I thought, actually. Guess I was too busy doing them.

First, spring came, and we were very happy. No more shovelling!! And, with the spring came the spring moult. For a day or so, we had a small population of tribbles in the front yard,

after helping some of the moulting canines shed their winter coats. A stiff wind sent them on to become warm bird nest quilts the following day.

Then, before we knew it, summer arrived and it was time to go to Alaska to visit my sister and her family. Twenty four hours of daylight during that time of year, it was wonderful! We had lots of fun, even though it rained quite a bit.

We hiked.

Visited an old gold mine,

at the top of Hatcher Pass. It was sunny up there, but cloudy down in the valley. We really enjoyed the change in the weather and soaked up those rays!

After a visit to the Iditarod museum, where we learned about the history of the race, we took a ride on the summer version of a dog sled.

You can't see if from these pictures, but the dogs really move out. If I could have let go of the sled long enough to take a picture without falling out, I would have. What a ride!

After I got back, it seemed like things went quickly. I finished up the requirements for my permanent certification and "highly qualified" status for teaching, installed a swamp cooler, watered lawns and dogs and cats and horses, rescued various and sundry wandering critters, and then school started.

I traded the van and bought a truck.

My friend Gwen brought her old horse, Bull, out to keep Flirt company. We bought lots of hay for the winter, and now I have really big hay stacks!

Bull is pretty skinny, so we feed and feed and feed him. He's happy here, and spends his days dozing in the sun, following Flirt around the horse pasture and generally keeping an eye on things.

Mom and Dad came for a visit and we did house projects, and dog projects and horse projects.

Sadly, the day they left, Troll passed away, apparently a victim of poison or strangulation, since he had no visible external trauma. Poor little guy made it all the way to the driveway, trying to get here when I called him for breakfast. He has a little pyramid now, where he can keep an eye on his dogs. I miss my cat-man bunches, as do the dogs, oddly enough. Carson looked for him for a week before giving up, checking the hay stack, the truck.

My friend, Janet, didn't want me to be without dog watchers, though, and brought me a couple likely sucessors, Geo and Digit. We'll see how it goes. Pictures to come later.

Emmie gets spayed next week. Bridger got tromped by a deer he got too close to and was was on the road to recovery, but now has an eye infection. Kittens get shots when Emm goes in for her surgery and I expect I'll just take Bridger with us. Pondering sending Carson in to keep everyone company, since all the rest will be there. Hmmm, rather a mean thing to do to the vet, though.

Snow is coming, creeping down the mountains. Fingers crossed for a light winter.

The Not-So-Fearsome Predators

2008-04-01T16:45:00.000-07:00

Emma surprised some deer in the yard this morning, whereupon Carson and Della rushed outside to help repel the threat. The three of them chased said deer across the driveway, into the sagebrush. At that point, Emm came back into the yard and left the intruders to the "kids."

It was then we discovered that neither Carson, nor Della, are considered credible threats by the local spring doe herd. In fact, the lead doe advanced on the both of them, chasing them back to the driveway. She stared them down, long enough they decided that discretion was the better part of corgi valor and with a departing bark, came back to the lawn with Emma.

Carson was quite frustrated with the disrespect dealt to him by the deer. He charged around the yard, barking at Emma, wrestling with and chasing Della and Troll. It was just too much for his male puppy ego to bear. In exasperation, he then charged out back to the pasture to raise as much ruckus as he could with the horse.

Flirt was lying down, snoozing in the dirt, ignoring all of the deer herding activity in the front yard. Enter Carson, barking and growling, obviously expecting her to get up and react as a terrified herbivore should. I'm pretty sure she opened her eyes, though until he had circled her a dozen times, barking madly the entire time, she didn't even pick up her head. Even then, she rested her chin on the ground and just watched him go round and round. By the time I went to get the camera again, Flirt decided to get up and inspect the remants of her breakfast, all the while paying no mind to the noisy and fierce sable hunter. Troll watched the entire process with great feline amusement.

It's fortunate that the term puppy-brain is an oxymoron, otherwise the poor child might get a complex. He did retire to the lawn after I pointed out that trying to herd the horse was not allowed, especially since she was obviously oblivious to his existence. Be interesting to see how he'd do in a herding test, though now I'm worred the sheep would hurt his little feelings!

Somehow I don't think it's going to last . . .

2008-01-28T07:16:00.000-08:00

Well, that prediction was at least accurate. So much blowing snow last night that the motion lights thought we were under seige. For a scant moment I thought about the lights annoying my nearest neighbors, then, when some semblance of sense returned realized that if I couldn't see their lights . . . yeah, how does that go? thoughts change every time the wind changes? Closed the door, went to bed. Two hour delay for school this morning. Driveway looks passable, but I'm not sure about my road. Think spring, please!

Severe Weather Warning

2008-01-27T15:43:00.000-08:00

The National Weather Service issued a severe weather warning for Elko and its surrounds, from 6:00 a.m. today, until some time tomorrow morning. I must admit, we have enjoyed our severe weather immensely. The dogs and I indulged in a couple mile walk this afternoon. Other than some wind, 40 degrees and sunny this time of year is a real treat. I especially enjoyed the sight of grass in the yard and gravel on some of the driveway - it's the little things, you know?

With any luck, all of you who are hoping for snow will be thrilled with what you get, and it will manage to skip Elko entirely. My fingers are crossed. I like being able to see the sidewalk and think about spring. Somehow, I don't think it's going to last.

Musical Seats

2008-01-20T20:10:00.000-08:00

I was happily grading papers at the corner of the couch, my usual spot. Dogs were up and down, back and forth, all over the place, also as usual. Got up to see if I had some additional batteries for my 30 year old calculator. Big mistake. All available space immediately disappears and previously awake canines are suddenly fast asleep in my seat. All eyes are squeezed tightly shut. Who's fooling who here?!

Our Blizzard

2008-01-05T08:02:00.000-08:00

We had all sorts of severe weather warnings for last night and look what the storm brought.

All told, the snow portion of the storm was only 6 - 7 inches, though the moisture content is quite high. My shoveling project today is not looking like too much fun, the snow is very heavy and wet. It's the desert; one wishes for powder.

While all that snowing and blowing was going on, Carson indulged his newly found passion, the couch.

Happy New Year

2007-12-31T20:20:00.000-08:00

It has been a year of changes, and now I'm hoping for a year of progress beyond those changes. Here's hoping all of you who visit my little site have a wonderful year, full of doggie blessings and human ones, too.

It is my privilege and honor to thank my friends for their love and support over the past year. Louise, you have been amazing every time we've spoken. The gift of Daisy was and is one of the best I've ever known. Jeri, as always, you have been there whenever I needed you. It is my hope to return the favor in any way I can. Carolyn, you have given me, more important Mark, Leidy, an amazing child in every way, a wonder that I haven't thanked you for enough. Kate, ever and always you are in my thoughts, with Gogo, and also with the idea of an off the track thoroughbred someday.

To all of you who love our dogs, Happy New Year. May it be filled with happy dogs, amazing health and love in all its glory.

Christmas at the "Ranch"

2007-12-29T08:30:00.000-08:00

Carson was not the only attraction over Christmas, just the only dedicated photo project. Santa arrived with the snow and brought all sorts of practical gifts this year. Interestingly, it was one of the best Christmas holidays I've had in a number of years. It's been difficult to decide on the best gift, since the programmable thermostat, new medicine cabinet/mirror and garage door opener were all much needed items and equally wonderful. Fingers crossed that the door opener installers show up next week, since with our week of nasty weather I'd much rather stay in the warm van than have to get out to open and close that big old door.

Troll, expressing all of our satisfaction with a happy holiday, spent with the ones we love. Here's hoping you had a lovely Christmas and best wishes for a great New Year.

The little red man is growing up

2007-12-25T14:15:00.000-08:00

Took some pictures of Carson this Christmas Day. My little boy is growing up. He wasn't too sure he was going to stand and complained accordingly. However, the advent of bribery changes his mind.

Dad took the pictures while I did puppy placement.

The more chicken jerky I produced, the more attractive Carson found the project. He got tired right at the end and decided after a big yawn that he needed a nap.

Carson - a life support system for his legs

2007-10-24T17:58:00.001-07:00

Carson is quite the little chunk, though right now, he's mostly these thick little legs. He's such a good puppy, everyone loves him, even the cats think he pretty nice.

Fall Arrives

2007-09-23T18:22:00.000-07:00

Seems that after a week of 80+ temperatures, homecoming at the high school has ushered fall into the area in no uncertain terms. After a blustery, rainy day, the clouds lifted and the first snow is on the Rubies. Not a bad evening view while I wonder where my Sorels are packed.

Great _______ Hunter?

2007-09-12T18:03:00.001-07:00

When I came home today, I noticed cute little Carson chewing on something that looked quite out of place in the dog kennel. Turns out it was some kind of black bird, and very dead. Said bird was not in the kennel this morning when I filled water dishes and policed the area.

It is probably a cowbird, though it's hard to tell given how many types of black birds we have in this area. Since rigor had not set in, and the bird was not mostly eaten, it must have happened late this afternoon.

I suspect Zumi is the bird hunter. Emma really doesn't care and couldn't move that fast if she did. Carson is far too uncoordinated and cautious at three months. Leidy would probably love to eat birds, but doesn't typically move or jump high enough to have a good chance. Zumi, on the other hand, chases birds all of the time. After I let everyone out of the kennel to dispose of the corpse, she even followed some high flying black birds down the drive way to see if they were going to land, just in case.

The cats are the other possibility. However, Willie is still recovering from his abscess and stitches. At this point, he doesn't even jump up on the shelf where his food is kept. Troll, a great bird hunter, was no where in evidence, and I can't see him leaving such a great kill to those "clumsy cats" as he obviously thinks of the dogs.

So, Zumi is the great tri-color hunter, leaving her "kill to nourish her new friend, Carson. I'm happy to report that very little bird was consumed, the raw diet notwithstanding.

New Child at the Rocking Corgi Ranch

2007-09-08T16:17:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to, and Emma, Leidy and Zumi grudgingly, announce, a new family member at the Rocking Corgi Ranch. Carson joined us Thursday, coming all the way from Canada.

Carson came to us from Shelley Camm, of Yasashiikuma Kennels, outside of Toronto, Canada. He is a Hunter x Rocky child and I am very excited to have him. I first met his father a number of years ago, then his mom at a Canadian National Specialty, where she was Best Puppy. Carson's registered name is Yasashiikuma RCR Sierra Nevada, in keeping with the litter theme of mountains. Since Carson City is the capital of Nevada, it seemed an appropriate call name. It also fits his laid back personality.

Kathy Schwabe was a wonderful foster momma to Carson, loving him for the two weeks while we arranged transportation on a domestic U.S. flight (less expensive than international from Canada) and for Carson's 3 month birthday (a requirement for air travel).

Carson settled right in, playing with both the dog and cat members of his new family. His social skills are excellent, even with Zumi and Willie, both of whom can be more than a bit temperamental. He went to school with me the morning after his arrival and was a model puppy. He patiently received petting and many oohs and aahs from my students, then slept until the next batch was ready. I can see a future in therapy for this handsome sable boy.

Carson has wonderful round bone, big expressive ears, a classic Cardigan temperament, and best of all, he's sable. Leidy thinks he's ok,for a puppy.

His feet are a little big compared to the rest of him right now, but he shows potential to be a beautiful boy as he grows into them. After a full two days, he did what any smart puppy does, and slept!

More School

2007-08-22T05:46:00.001-07:00

Well, it's started and the kids have arrived. I seem to have wonderful kids this year, with lots of returnees to keep me company. One who left school mid-semester last year is back and I am so thrilled; it was wonderful to see her again and she's in one of my classes, too. One of the Algebra I classes may be a bit noisy, but the group really seems like it will be a lot of fun. I'm taking some eggs to school today for a social activity, then the math begins.

On the home front, my folks are in town, puttering around the new house. So far, I've got hose reels mounted, a new work bench in the garage, the fridge leveled per the instructions, electric fence tuned up and yard raked of the detritus of the former residents. That leaves hanging pictures and general clean up for me. Still seems like quite a bit, but when the weather starts to change, most of the big stuff will be done.

School starts today,

2007-08-15T06:34:00.001-07:00

for teachers, on Monday for students. I am working feverishly to get the last of my "highly qualified" requirements finished. While I won't make the first day of school, my tests are September 8. Hope they don't fire me. We've got meetings and work time for the next three days, so I have my calculus books with me to review. Feel pretty good about everything else.

Worried about leaving the dogs (two in heat, one standing) in the corgi-border kennel, and worried about Flirt (the horse) since she's been thinking about colicing for the past 24 hours. Talking with the vet, but still worried. Darn animal children, I do love them.

I love my tools, but . . .

2007-08-09T14:51:00.000-07:00

I really don't want to see them again any time soon.

They were a big help in today's project, constructing the amazing corgi-border kennel. Measuring 10.5 feet wide in the front and 12 feet wide at the back, the length is approximately 42 feet. It includes dog house, patio area, dead grass potty area and a pool, to be installed in the next day or so.

Amenities, other than the pool, will include water bowls, dog beds, dog toys, shade cloth and possibly an outside border of railroad ties if escapes become a problem.

Hopefully, this will be a safe place for the horde to spend the day. I may install a dog door into the garage this fall, so the kids have a place to get out of the weather other than the dog house.

There are two fence posts that will need to be removed from the inside, but a post puller is not in my collection of manual labor torture devices. Unfortunately, they were just inside, rather than just outside, the fence line.

Now, a soak in the tub is in order, then maybe a cold beer, or maybe I'll live dangerously and have both at the same time.

Raw Diet

2007-07-20T09:25:00.001-07:00

We've started experimenting with raw diet for the dogs. After a couple days, I would have to report the results are a mixed bag. Emma loves it. The first thing she does is grab that chicken wing and crunch it down, the alpha-wolf, savaging and consuming the kill!

Leidy and Zumi are not so sure this is a good thing. Chicken is left until last and then they look at me as if to say, "Mom, are you sure you don't have some kibble we could eat?" When I've used the Canidae as a vitamin supplement with the dairy, they eat it first, then nose around the bowl, like they're looking for more, before bothering with the chicken.

All had a mixed veggie, egg, yogurt conglomeration last night with their chicken wing. Zumi threw up a 4:00 a.m. The other two seemed fine. Some one also threw up the first night, though I'm not sure if it was Leidy or Zumi since both were sleeping on the floor. I'm sure it wasn't Emma since she can't get back on the bed if she jumps off, and she was still snoring next to me when I woke up.

I'm thawing some small beef ribs and may also thaw the big soup bones for recreational chewing over the weekend. We'll see how that goes. It may be they prefer cow to bird. Emma, well, she'll eat almost anything.

Bridger's Championship Picture

2007-07-15T10:37:00.000-07:00

Here we are, warts and all, for Bridger's championship picture. I'm biased, but I think Bridger looks wonderful. Ty's pretty cute, too!

Also, we got a picture the first day Bridger was BOB. He's such a handsome boy and his personality is amazing.

Shots of the (hopefully) new house

2007-07-13T08:53:00.000-07:00

We went out to the new house yesterday to take some measurements for a refrigerator. While we were there, I got some pictures of the house and the views. It's fairly nice stuff for those of you who enjoy the desert, through probably too desolate for many.

The first couple are the view from the front windows, then one of the house, then some other shots to the sides and back.

The refrigerator is now ordered, the appraisal is in process. Inspections get ordered after the appraisal, which should be done by next week.

It's really big!

2007-07-02T08:27:00.001-07:00

For an apple tree, in fact, it's pretty huge. I didn't think much about it when we moved in, you know? So there's a big tree beside the house, and at some point in the recent past, it had been pruned down to pretty much the trunk. When you have large trees, with large limbs and a climate which generates wind, that's normal unless you want some of those limbs to demand entry through the roof during a storm.

Turns out the tree is some kind of apple, probably crab, based on the fruit. Truth is, I've always thought of apple trees as small to medium, you know, ornamental sized, or the smaller yet ones you see in orchards? Not here. This thing has to be a foot and a half in diameter and as tall as the house. Even money on that it's been here since the early nineteen hundreds when the original house was built. Must remember to keep it happy; it's big enough to consume unwary passers-by, dogs, small children, if it gets upset.

Advent of the Puffer Fish

2007-06-29T13:11:00.000-07:00

We had an interesting item appear in the yard today.

As you can see, it appears to be a rare species of rubber puffer fish. The kids weren't sure about it, until I tossed it in the pool. Apparently, once wet, strange items are safe. It was then merely a question of whose fish it would be.

Somehow I'm not surprised at the new owner.

Waiting . . . maybe moving . . . waiting . . . sigh

2007-06-27T17:57:00.000-07:00

Well, I have an accepted offer on the house. Now to get through the inspections. I've met one of the prospective purchasers and he is very nice, so I hope all goes well. I'd like to leave my little house with some one who wants to do all the things that are now beyond both my budget and carpentry skills.

Emmie is exhausted by the many showings and happy we may be seeing light at the end of the tunnel. She has refused to help with the moving.

On the plus side, the new little house has an amazing view and a huge yard, lacking only a fence to keep the smaller furry children from wandering. Horse girl will have her own run-in shed and large pasture, though I may have to get her a friend so she won't feel lonely.

Fingers crossed that all goes well, one appraisal comes in high and the other low. The bank has already said yes, so just need some concrete numbers and committed buyers.

A New, and First, Champion

2007-06-18T09:31:00.001-07:00

Bridger finished his championship while at the Blackfoot dog shows. He was very happy and worked hard for the junior handler helping us. Ty actually showed Bridger to his championship, as well as in group a couple times. Ty is a very promising young handler and does a wonderful job with his Juniors dog, Slugger, a beautiful blue rough collie. On the days I showed Bridger in group, it was because Ty was showing Slugger in group. We had a great time. I'll post our championship picture, with our new friend, Ty, when it arrives. In the meantime, here's Bridger with his championship medallion, and receiving congratulations from Ellen, one of his favorite persons.

Blackfoot adventure

2007-06-18T09:15:00.000-07:00

We went on a mini-vacation to the Blackfoot dog shows, beginning last Tuesday. First, we picked up Leidy, Della and Gannett at Mark's, in Etna, Wyoming. It was very late when we arrived at my good friend Ellen's house. The next morning, it was time for dog washing. Leidy was victim number two.

While drying Leidy, I noticed that the hummingbirds were not the least bit bothered either by the dryer, or by the large amounts of dog hair flying around. The next picture was taken while I was still working on Leidy,

as you can see from the reflection in the window, with the dryer running and said hair going everywhere. I was all of three feet from the feeder. Hummingbirds were buzzing us as we stood on the deck, determined not to be bothered by anything on their mission to breakfast.

Once dogs were clean, the motor home was loaded, we were showered, dog towels were laundered, we were ready to go. Between us, a total of twelve dogs and two humans were off to the show, at the breakneck speed of . . . well, a herd of turtles.

More painting . . .

2007-06-11T20:36:00.000-07:00

Well, the priming of the walls is finished. I have some work to do on the woodwork, but that can be done with furniture in the room. Hopefully, seeing a furnished room will do wonders for the sale of the place. The dogs are thrilled to have more space; mostly it's the additional couches and rugs that make them smile. Sending pictures to the Realtor so we can impress them on the MLS, too. Fingers crossed that the darn thing sells in a week or so.

Zumi's new enemy

2007-06-07T20:16:00.000-07:00

I took Zumi to the vet today, both for her rabies vaccination and to have her frequent reverse sneezing checked out. All was well until the vet took her temperature. He used a rectal thermometer. Dr. Finley was quite careful. Zumi was most offended. She growled and growled and growled at him, sat down and growled, then lay down and growled, until it was done.

Poor Dr. Finley. He's such a nice, mild mannered guy. I think he was quite surprised how quickly Zumi decided he was the "enemy," and she didn't forgive him. She growled; I got on her case to stop. She did. We proceeded to the next thing. Zumi growled again. Again, she got told, "no!"

In any event, the reverse sneezing is preliminarily diagnosed as a light allergy. We will wait it out before proceeding with any medical solution. She is now vaccinated and micro-chipped, neither of which elicited the reaction of the thermometer even though the needle for the microchip is HUGE. Zumi was grumpy until we got home, though now seems normal.

Painting . . . ugh!

2007-06-05T07:50:00.000-07:00

It took forever to get the sanding done and I was sure the painting would be much easier. I stand corrected. It's going to take more than one coat of primer. It's going to take more than one gallon for the first coat. Given the dimensions of the room, that's not encouraging, especially since the surface area ordinarily covered by a gallon far exceeds the surface area of the room, even for porous surfaces. Another adventure, no doubt a learning experience, in the mundane activities of life.

We're living in three rooms right now due to the above project. All of the dog toys seem to have migrated to my office-now also living and dining room. Strange, I'm sure that I had them all put away. Asked the dogs about it, and no one claims any responsibility, though Emma and Bridger stare pointedly at Zumi, who suddenly finds something interesting out the window.

2007-06-03T14:49:00.000-07:00

Introducing Zumi! We're pretty sure she's a border collie-aussie cross, though could be all border with a docked tail. Examination of said tail reveals that there's a bit of skin under the end fur, so could be a natural dock, and her head and rear feet remind me more of Aussie than Border. A life-long mystery, fortunately of no consequence. We're going to grow her and see if she's any good at agility.

The shelter was sure that she was dog-aggressive. As you can see, she's definitely a vicious killer. Bridger looks positively terrified.

Emma, though not entirely convinced that a long legged dog is something she wanted, is equally concerned. And Troll, well, you can see he's just beside himself.

The swimming pool, less than five minutes after clean water, in it's usual condition post Zumi and Emmie.

Sitting in the shade, watching the sprinkler in the back yard. The grass that never grew last year is making a comeback.

Musings on twenty years

2007-06-03T11:11:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, it will be three weeks since my divorce was final. It took three days from when we dropped off the documents at the courthouse for it to be set in stone in the legal world. Seems much too little time to end twenty years . . . half my life . . . perhaps in my next life, I'll audition for the part of an Aztec sacrifice. Same effect, but quicker completion.

Tuscarora Art Fair

2007-05-28T08:11:00.000-07:00

Bridger, Emma and I went to a little town outside of Elko, NV yesterday. Tuscarora had it's spring art fair, where the artists in residence open their studios to the public. There were a half dozen or so, including a pottery school, in a gathering of buildings that could have used some assistance standing in strong winds. It's a stretch to call the place a town, boasting only a post office as a regular, commercial use structure. My good friend, Gary Newman, came with us on our field trip. It was a nice way to spend a warm, breezy, Nevada afternoon. The pottery and jewelry were fine enough to successfully tempt me to a couple purchases. My new earrings are made from broken dishes, fittin g given the structural integrity of most of the buildings we visited.

Emm's hot water therapy

2007-05-28T08:02:00.000-07:00

Over spring break, Emm got quite a lot of hot water therapy. This involved more than a few baths soaking with me since she categorically refuses to tolerate such "abuse" without me. I haven't noticed large amounts of improvement in her condition, though the few impressions I note while watching her the day following a soak are all positive. The question is, are dog-hair baths good for the skin? You know, like mud baths?

Bridger and Leidy

2007-03-04T15:36:00.000-08:00

And, here's a few of Bridger.

2007-03-04T15:22:00.000-08:00

Here is Leidy this morning, post toenail grinding but pre-mud. She's close to being in standing heat and driving Bridger "nutty." She didn't particularly want to stand on the table after her manicure, but she was pretty cooperative all things considered.

Will also post some for Bridger.

More creatures of West Dakota

2007-03-03T12:07:00.000-08:00

Here's a few more shots of the critters, most of whom you've never seen before! They include Flirt (the horse), Troll and the fish. Willie is hiding, so none of him. Since he's black and likes to sleep on a black chair, we may never have a good photo of him, but perhaps I'll catch him out some time.

Starting today, a place to talk, think and see

2007-03-03T10:12:00.000-08:00

Here we are, on my new blog. Hopefully, I'll learn lots about publishing on the web without embarrassing myself too much. Fingers crossed.

Here are some pictures of Daisy at her new home. They were taken very early the morning of her first day. The lady there is Priscilla Marden, her new mom, along with Ebbet, Della's brother.

They had a great time playing and continue to do so, though Daisy has decided she's the princess. Poor Ebbet thought he was getting a new dog toy. What he really got was a bossy sister who hogs his toys, food and absolutely refuses to let him play with his cat. The cat, Budo, is not thrilled, but not sure what to do about Daisy, who was trained well by Troll and Willie (here) in the essential skills of cat management.

I miss my hairy little muffin very, very much. But, I know that her new family loves her dearly and will take great care of her.

More pictures soon as I scan and download from film and camera.