Weekend Update

Just a quick note before I'm off to a weekend at a flyball tournament.  If you want to try something new and get out of the cold, come and check it out!  Our Animal Inn team is hosting the event and it's held at TCOTC.  It runs from 7:30 a.m to about 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. 

The puppy news...girls are getting bigger!!!  The countdown is on.  Whitley is 6 days away...Bailey 9 days! Woo Hoo.   Maisy goes in for her 2nd ultrasound on Wednesday....checking out that little UNO baby.  Dr. Jim thought he "maybe" saw a second....I'm sure hoping.  She looks pretty even on her sides with a little bulge on each....or it may be wishful thinking.  :0)   X our fingers!

Gotta run....have a pawsitively great day!

Cookie Thief!

REMINDER TO SELF: 

Never leave a plate of fresh, warm, homemade chocolate chip cookies unattended on the kitchen counter. 

And, look, no one looks the least bit guilty or remorseful!  Hmmm, I'm thinking it's the tall one.   Reminder to dogs...chocolate can be toxic!  Don't be looking for sympathy if your belly hurts.  BAD DOG.

Wednesday - Hump Day

Okay, the typical use of "hump day" may not be the best descriptive word for the week when dealing with dogs.  But regardless, hump day it is in the calendar sense.

It's been a very typical week...that's a nice thing!  This weekend Bill finished putting up the shelves to my "walk-in" dog closet.  I love it!  So I've organized and moved everything to the closet and started taking inventory of the puppy supplies I will need for Bailey and Maisy puppies.  13 days and counting!!  I ordered a second bed for Bailey while she's here with me.  I'm thinking Maisy won't want to give hers up...she just loves that bed. 

We had more training this week.  Beginner obedience for Apple on Monday.  She is such a ham!  There's a few areas that we can work on for sure...impulse control being high on the list.  Her cup overfloweth with canine enthusiasm.  But that is what I love about her!  Henry had a great traning session yesterday...retrieving work and his regular obedience.  He begins a more advanced obedience class this Thursday so he'll get to add another day to his schedule.  He will be thrilled for the extra day to work.  He is happiest when he has a job to do.

So, an uneventful few days. I'll take that anytime!

Here's a peek at what the living room will look like soon....transformation to a puppy nursery.

A Big Day!

Otto and Apple are gearing up for the big game tonight.  Can't you see their excitement!!  Catching a few zzzz's while they can.  Me, I don't know if I can watch.  Memories of past disappoint looms large!

I'll have to take some relaxation tips from the bullies.  :-)

Go Vikes!

Puppy Heartbeat!

I got so excited today when Mom put on her jacket and got out my pink leash...yes!!  I thought, "Fantastic, a walk!!!"  However, she kind of dashed my hopes when she loaded me into the back of the SUV.  Darn, she spoiled my fun.   Well, sometimes I get to go really cool places so I was keeping an open mind.  But, then reality hit when I noticed the familiar surroundings.  Okay, the place is not TOO bad and there are super nice people who give me treats and lots of great scratches; but they also poke and prod.  That I can do without!

This time I didn't get any pokes...thank heavens!  Actually all I had to do was lay (lie?...I never have figured that grammar out) on my back and they rubbed something gently over my belly.  That was okay!  Plus, those nice ladies gave me lots of treats again.  I liked that!  So I didn't quite understand the whole thing...being on my back and all.  But Momma whispered in my ear later that I had one little bitty bully baby inside me that I needed to take good care of.  WTH!  One baby to go through all this hormone stuff that keeps me cranky and so, so tired!   I thought, "this better be one special baby!"  Momma thinks it will be as it's an Otto baby.  I agree, he is about the most wonderful bulldog I know.  So no worries, Mom, I'll do the best I can.  I do have a little experience in this area.

Stay tuned....  Maisy

One More Day

Eeeeekkkkk, tomorrow is the day!  Maisy goes in at 9 a.m. for her ultrasound.  I am confident she's pregnant, but I always get anxious.  Check back...............

Reflecting.

I'm reminded by blogs of others I know that life is full of some BIG heartbreaking stuff...especially the ravaging of cancer on one's body.  It sometimes feel as if my fun, light hearted sharing of my dog stories and their lives is inconsequential in the journey of life.  While I love them, cherish them, and delight in their companionship, it's important for me to remember the struggles, life threatening situations and challenges that so many people face.  Thank goodness we can share our lives with furry four paws that help lighten our load or just provide us some unconditional love.

So here's some kisses and hugs to my pooches (and my prayers and thoughts to those struggling with pain, illness, cancer and life obstacles.) Thank you for helping me keep my life in the correct perspective.

Okay, now that I've shared some of my introspective thoughts, I'll share some of the "lighter" things on the four paw side.

Went to visit Bailey last night!  She is just the SWEETEST thing and, yes, growing!  Bailey babies...can't wait!

And, Maisy's new Perla bed arrived yesterday.  OMG, she LOVES it!!  I think this will be a perfect everyday bed for her and a great bed for nursing those babies.

Bulldogs with Attitude!

Hi Everyone!

Momma said I finally get a chance to post.  Yahoo!  As most everything in life this gets me very excited.  You see I have a very HUGE zest for life!  Mom my calls it a little SPAZ or Dad calls me "his naughty girl," but not at all it's just total abandon to those things in life that I love.  That includes toys, treats, canine buddies, exploring, human people, jumping, Katy's feet, cuddles and shoes.  Oh yes!  Shoes are my obsession...especially moms.  I just can't help myself.  After all, if people aren't going to put them in the closet then I say it's fair game!  Mom may need to get a new wardrobe of shoes when I'm grown and honestly I think she might like this idea.  She likes shoes as much as me!

Now don't get me wrong--as energetic I am about everything, I can take that level of commitment 100% to other things such as hanging out in my favorite spot, being a cuddle bug, or a couch potato.  Once I get settled on a lap, or on my favorite recliner, I'll be there for hours!  I can go for 0 to 60 in a flash...or from 60 to 0.  Life is good!

Last night was my turn for obedience training.  Mom has been neglecting me a bit in that area.  For shame!  She seems to think Henry has the corner on the this.  Oh, will I show her!  She hasn't been giving me much training at home, but I have been watching.  I took to the my sit-stays, down-stays like we'd been practicing this forever.  And she always talks about Henry's focus and attention.  Ha!  He has nothing on me...I'll watch my momma which the same intensity.  After all I do love her...well, maybe more, those yummy treats!  In two short lessons I am heeling, making turns, recalls, fronts and finishes.  My mission...to show those skeptics that we bullies can do obedience with the best of them.  We are much smarter than we let on.  You know, we can't always show all our cards at once.   Gotta keep them guessing!

Here's my "attention" look.  Look at this face!  Aren't I just the cutest!....(Ok, I'm working on a bit of humble pie.)
.

Snapshot of canine mom and me...I love her....

And, my most favorite spot....this is the one that I can spend hours at a time.  Especially if there's a lap to cuddle up with.

Awww, me as a baby!  :-)

Have a pawsitively wonderful day and like me add a bit of "attitude!"  ~ apple

My New Favorite!

Thank you Nancy!   This was sent to me (from Nancy) in a text message today.  It's Bailey at just over 5 weeks pregnant.  OMG!!   Love the photo!!  And, oh my, she is most definitely showing.  Too cute for words!  XOXO to Bailey.

Go VIKINGS!!  All the way!

Three Bully Saturday

The bullies just hanging out while I am cleaning the house.  Checkin' out the neighborhood.  By now, everyone must know this is their most favorite spot!  Couch bullies.  Word of warning...best not to start such a habit!

Life in a Virtual World

I'm amazed by the portals of life the internet has opened up to me.  What was life like without it...I can hardly remember.  I enjoy reading the many posts from acquaintances, friends and family on Facebook.  (Thanks kids for getting me started on this social network...ugh.  Another fine way to avoid the chores of everyday life!)  And then there are emails, shutteryfly sites, the blog-osphere, the websites galore, wikipedia, and on and on. 

While it all provides a most wonderful distraction from life, it is a reminder to me of how fortunate I am to have such great friends and families.  It reminds how blessed I am for health and a comfortable life.  It reminds me that there are many others out their that are struggling with some very BIG time stuff.  It reminds me to be grateful for each day.  And most of all while many may think the computer has impersonalized our lives, it has connected me again with many wonderful people.  This connection may just be tiny snapshots of life, but those snapshots can be meaningful and powerful. 

So to all my PC friends, thank you for being in my life.  And please continue to share the joys, sorrows and challenges that face every one of us.

Blessings to all!

The Waiting Game

Waiting, waiting, waiting!  Grrrr....I'm not very good at this.  Here's a few waiting updates...

• Bailey reached her 5th week of pregnancy.  So only 4 more weeks to go for her and from here on out she will really be growing a puppy belly.  Yay!
• Maisy goes in next Friday for her ultrasound..I'd be SHOCKED if she's not pregnant. I ordered her a new bed for nursing.  I've heard some great things about the Perla beds so thought I'd give it a try.  Apple has pretty much given her current bed quite a chewing.
  
• Deb is getting the nursery set up at her house for Whitley's puppies.  It won't be much longer. 

So in the meantime, we just stay busy.  Henry and Apple in obedience.  Continued training for Henry in flyball.  Family time.  New TV shows.  And of course the usual daily grind.  Oh, how fun!   And a little day dreaming of warm tropical places away from all the cloudy, snowy, cold Minnesota days.

Here's our reality....way too much snow!  The dogs have figured out that there is a way to get to the BIG yard.  Through the snow and over the fence.

 
And, my day dreaming...visions of a tropical vacaation.  Sand, sun, beach chairs, a good book, and one of those fancy drinks with an umbrella.   Oh, how I wish!!

My favorite picture from a trip to Jamaica.  Ah, the memories!

Which would you choose?

I Wonder...

Okay, we don't know for sure, but Maisy is most definitely acting a little pregnant.  Poor baby...crabby, tired and looking a little fuller (and I haven't increased the food yet!)

"I just want to sit here, sleep...and keep everyone else away!"

Great Day!

It's definitely turning out to be a very nice day!  First, Henry received two legs towards his Rally Novice obedience title.  He did very well at the show this weekend.  He is such a delight...in every way!  Good job, Oh Henry!  We only need one more leg for his title.  Most likely we'll try for this in March, depends on puppy arrivals. ;)

And, speaking of puppies.  Bailey's mom, Nancy, felt puppy movement today!  She said it felt like butterflies in her hand.  Ah, how awesome is that!!!!  Bully babies!  :)

Then there's the Packer-Cardinal game.  Still a whole half to go...but go Arizona!!

Tonight is flyball night!!!  Yes, a very good day. 

A few photos of Henry from Saturday's show.  Thanks to our supporters who came and encouraged us on.  Thanks Jen for the photos.  Heather, hope you're feeling better...we missed you!  Oh, and Henry got to reunite with littermate, Vito, at the dog show.  Neat!

A Word From Your Mother

"Okay everyone...listen up."

Rule #1...."Momma's Make the Rules."

"If I want it..."

 

"I take it."

"It's just the way it is."

"Why? ...because I said so!"

1, 2, 3, 4....

5 !!!

Here's a quick news flash....only have a few minutes.  Bailey visited Dr. Jim today for her ultrasound this morning.  Beating hearts were found and the possibility of 5 bully babies!!  :)))  Keep up the prayers for healthy and strong puppies.  Due date February 9.  Way to go Bailey and Broggie!

Toller Training Buddies

Here's a follow-up photo (from today) to my other post below "Back in the Grove."  Thanks Deana!

Vermilion's Versatile Oh Henry! and Vermilion's XSP Dashing Ditka

"Henry and Ditka"  (how cute are they!? ..and so sweet!)

Back in the Groove

Yes!!  We are getting back into the training mode!  I love this.  Sometimes it's hard to get motivated like last night getting out in the absolutely bitter cold weather and again this morning...who knows what the single digit or subzero temp is today.  I'm afraid to look.

Apple had a grand time in the class yesterday evening.  She looks at everything as a great adventure.  I love that about her.  No fear, no boundaries.  Most of the night was spent listening to blah, blah, blah.  Ok, that's mean, it's all good stuff but I really just wanted to get out there with my dog and do some training.  Finally, after an hour of lecturing, we did get about 10 minutes of real training.  Apple is going to be a blast...she's definitely an open slate with a huge eagerness to learn.  Fun times ahead.

Today is Henry's turn.  He's been off his training schedule for several weeks.  He sooooo needs a job to do!  I'm ecstactic he can get back out there and work his brain and get some much needed exercise.  He's doing dual training today.  We are going early to the training center to do some flyball box work before our regular obedience class.  He was making huge strides in flyball and then with the holidays things kind of stalled.  But it's back to work today.  He'll be one happy boy!

This weekend is the Land O'Lakes Dog Show.  Apple will be one week shy of six months at the time of the show so she is still too young to take on the conformation show ring.  Some day soon though!  The fun part is, Henry is entered in the Rally obedience.  We are hoping to pick up two legs towards his first obedience title.  He is more than ready...it'll be on my shoulders to get the course right and read the signs appropriately.  In Rally Novice, which is what we are in, the obedience is pretty basic it's more the handler putting it all together for their dog.  Can't wait to get out there with Henry.  He is such an awesome dog!!

Well, we are off....hope everyone has a pawsitively great day!

A Perfect Ending

Ahhhh, Sunday night and enjoying a Viking's win.  Nice!  Had a busy day traveling in the car (more on that later)and listening to the game and then relaxed with Bill in the evening.  Doesn't get any better than a good cuddle with a bully...and when Apple is not being naughty she is the best snuggler!

And note....computer within reach, cell phone, beer and a fire.  Perfect!  :)

Enjoying 2010

All is pretty quiet at our house.  We are just trying to stay warm.  I should try to brave the cold and get everyone out for a walk today....brrrrrrr.

Here's Apple hanging out...almost 6 months old.  I just love this little girl! 

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

A new year!  Not that it feels much different than two days ago.  But, I am looking forward to the year 2010.

Yesterday was time to clear away the remnants from Christmas.  This year we had bought a $20 tree...$19.98 actually.  We decided we needed to go the budget route as the fresh trees are getting sooooo expensive.  Our tree had great shape and it was the perfect size, but the best part, it was the freshest tree I think we have ever had!  Nice to have found a great value!!  :))

But, the tree is down now....Apple helped me pack away the ornaments.  She had fun sniffing each and every ornament.  I think in all, for the Christmas season, we lost only 4 tree decorations to bully teeth.  Not bad!

HaPpY  NeW  YeAr!!