stories from sweetgrass farm

Hello........ Norton!!!!

2012-01-27T09:58:00.003-08:00

Well.. here he is... my "newest project"... service puppy in training ... Norton!!!! When we were at NEADS, Dave asked if I might be interested in working with a young Labradoodle. I had met him last month when his raiser, Lorna, joined our group. She was (has) done such a great job with him, but he is "a lot" of dog.. and she was saying that she was hoping to have a break. She is usually a short time raiser, so having him for so long was a bit more than she had planned.

I took him over for the session, and as you can see, he is so agreeable about everything. He came right along with me on the train and other than looking to see where Lorna was once in awhile, he worked beautifully for me. He does has a ton of energy, but it's all fun energy and I am looking forward to challenging him with work....

"poor" Lorna, she wasn't expecting that Norton would be heading out so soon... but as she said, (and we all agree) it's all about raising strong, confident puppies so they can go on and do the work that they are meant to do.....

When we arrived home, Norton came in, gave the house a once over and said "OK.. what's next"... he's pretty wonderful. Ed said it's going to take him a little time to think of "this bundle of curls" as a service dog.... but doodles can be great dogs, and their coats are suppose to be easier for anyone who might have allergies to typical dog hair...

Here we go again.... Hello....Norton!!!!

happy Birthday, Dave..

2012-01-27T09:58:00.001-08:00

If you have read the blog from Sunday... you know that we (the Maine puppy raisers) had a "birthday party for Dave"... that Dave wasn't invited to. Actually, what it was all about was, we wanted to get Dave a few lobsters as a birthday gift, but not getting to NEADS for our check in until late in the week, meant the lobsters would have be cooked and then kept. Keeping lobster meat isn't a good idea (unless you freeze it) and we wanted to have it as fresh as we could. So... the lobster bake on Sunday, picking our some lobsters for Dave, and (sadly) freezing the meat until today, when we could bring it to him. So, we arrived at NEADS, and you just know that we had to dress for the occasion. The gals from New York were there as well (hi Lee!!!) and they brought a cake....

And what Dave thought would be just a plain old "training check in day" turned out to be quite the party. We totally surprised him, which was our goal.....

Here's the cake that Lee brought......

Now, we didn't want Dave to miss his party from Sunday, so we took lots of pictures and put them in a small album so he could see what his party was like. I don't think he knows quite what to do with this group of ours!!!!! We're always surprising him.....

Nice new coffee cup... a trainer always needs coffee on hand.....

Kelli took the day off from work, and Ed joined us as well.....Sadly, Bernice, Linda and Randi couldn't make this trip with us.....

And because of "turn in" Maine is down to just two puppies - Otis and Stoney. Stoney had to see the vet for his "operation"... so brother Edgar joined the group today... they don't seem as excited about the birthday party as the humans do....

Now, I don't want you to think that we played all day.... we went over to the big hospital and to the train station... (that's me.. but that's also another story).....

And this is Vicki... she is with a nice lady who is puppy raising in Mass (but I forgot her name)... anywho, Vicki and her raiser will probably be joining us in the months ahead....

At the train station today, we "caught" a train just coming in... the really cool part was it was on a slight lay over and the conductor told us we could bring the puppies on board. That was a good training session, because the train continued to "run" while we walked up and down the isles, sat in the seats, etc.... Dave was pleased to have such a good experience.

The only other "better" thing, which I wished I had gotten a picture of... was us heading for home. Because there were "only" five of us going down this month, we all figured we could squeeze into one car. The trip down was actually a lot of fun.... it's nice to talk and laugh together... and the three dogs - Otis, Stoney and Edgar - all rode in the back. Coming home however, our dog count went from three to four!!! (next blog).... and we had 100 lbs of dog food to bring back... and it was snowing..... quite the trip to say the least, and probably looked like the circus coming to town. But, such a fun, fun day.... and Dave said it really made his birthday....

This is Lorna... and Norton...

it's also my next blog!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

lobsta, football or birthday????

2012-01-22T19:15:00.000-08:00

Well.... there was so much going on today, it was hard to even come up with a "title" for this blog.. so, I guess I might as well include everything. This coming Thursday is our monthly check in with Dave - and even though Kathleen, Bernice and I don't have puppies, we'll still go down.. not just because we always have a good time, but also.... it's Dave's birthday that day.

When we heard that last month, we all decided that we wanted to do something fun on his birthday. Now, we know that Dave loves lobster and never really has the chance to get it. So, Rick said he could get some lobsters for Dave from a fishing friend, and then I said, well, if we were getting lobsters for Dave, we should get some for all of us. So, today, the Maine puppy chapter got together for a lobster bake (in the middle of winter).

Rick arrived threw the door... more than ready to begin the party... or feast, which ever you want to call it.......

I guess their Mom's never told them NOT to play with their food!~!!!!!

Abbie still isn't quite so sure that these "things" are really meant to be eaten. But at least this time, she didn't run away in fear!!!!!

Now, it was also an important game for all the football fans. The Patriots are playing for the chance to head to the Super Bowl. I'm not a football fan - but several of the puppy raisers are, so, we had the game on, and our lobster bake/birthday party sort of became a Pre Super Bowl party as well... but, call it what you will.. it was still a fun get together....

"Hey Dave, THIS will be part of your birthday present come Thursday --- and you don't even know".....

The cooking crew had to bundle up well... I do have to say, I think lobster bakes are easier in the summer time....

but, Ed was happy to man the grill ( we had steak and chicken too - because some of "us" aren't lobster eaters!!! ) Can't imagine that......

Rick manned the lobsters......

Not so sure what was "that funny", but this is a great picture of my Ed and Kathleen.......

Oh boy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! let's get eating.......

Rick and Bernice are still trying to tell Abbie that "yes, you really can eat them!!!"

Funny how quiet it become when the food is ready......

and the football fans didn't stray too far from the TV......

So.. our lobster bake, football, birthday party was great fun, and very filling.... it was a good way to begin another winter week.

And Thursday, we bring some lobster meat to Dave, and have a training/birthday check-in at NEADS.

(oh ya... the Partriots did win and they're heading to the Super Bowl... another party????)

Happy Birthday!!!!!

2012-01-17T16:17:00.001-08:00

We had another birthday around here.... my dear Ed's. On Saturday we went to dinner, but on the actual date, you just have to have a little something as well.

I picked up a small cake (small being the word as Ed is really working on getting some weight off) and we let Abbie do the decorating. That is one thing about having a child in the house... everything is grand and exciting.. she reminds me of many things.

And the more candles the better... and what's with perfection... place them on the cake and celebrate!!!!!

After the decorating of the cake, she had to "dress for the party"... I'm not sure what's up with the Halloween frog costume, but she felt it was fitting!!! (and she looks so cute in it - might as well enjoy if before she outgrows it!!!)

Time to sing ... "happy birthday....."

Abbie and Papa.....life is grand.....

And another happy youngster in the house... our little foster puppy. I think he has missed Ginger so much but this week, we have a visitor. This is Chloe, she belongs to Linda our puppy raiser chapter leader. Some new snow, and two young dogs are having a great time.

Winter days... they're slipping by quickly.

one tuff bird...

2012-01-15T13:19:00.000-08:00

Bitter cold weather has set in. By this time of year, we should be used to it, but it's been so mild.. that it's all the talk right now. I always "worry" about the farm animals when we are in cold snaps like this. If I had my way "everyone" would be inside and cuddled next to the woodstove... but actually the farm animals do just fine in the cold. We make sure that there is plenty of water on hand, and extra feed.. that they can get shelter and everyone does just fine. Even the birds....

However, our little silky rooster has had quite the week... poor fellow......

I went down to do chores one morning last week, and found him stuck in the door of the chicken pen. I am thinking that he flew up to chase the other chickens away and somehow got his foot stuck in the chicken wire. Having five toes, silkies have big feet and his foot got caught, he was hanging upside down by his stuck foot. Because he was so still, I was pretty sure he was dead, and I called Ed down to give me a hand at untangling him. Well, when we went to move him, he was alive... and just had the good sense to hold still (thankfully the other birds did not attack him in this bad situation)....

but, he certainly was "hurt"... and I wasn't sure if the leg was broken, sprained or what. We decided to put him in a dog crate and just give him a few days to rest and see what happened. So far, it looks like he's going to pull threw.. he is beginning to stand on his leg and is eating and drinking. Before he is put back with the others, though, I want to be sure he is strong. One thing about chickens.. they're basically not nice and any sign of weakness in another bird.. makes them a victim for sure. I like this little chap, so I want to be certain he is back in control - or at least take it back when he is ready to join the rest. All I can say, he is one tough little guy....

thinking about a birthday...

2012-01-14T18:52:00.001-08:00

My hunny has a birthday this week... the 17th to be exact.. so tonite we did a last minute supper out with the "kids" and some friends. Any excuse to eat out and be together with the kids is great by me....

Since his procedure last November, things have gone really well. He is feeling absolutely great, is getting his energy back, and has lost 22 pounds... (just by eating a little more carefully and feeling good)... He's excited about the weight loss and is determined to keep this trend going....

Everyone is keeping him encouraged, and I think by the summer... it's going to be hard to keep up with him....

Happy "early" birthday wishes!!!!!

a snowy day....

2012-01-12T07:26:00.001-08:00

It's been a while since we have had a snowy day... funny, snow for Halloween, and now nothing, strange winter for sure. But today made up for that and we enjoyed a nice quiet snowy day at home. It was kind of fun.....our guest doggies enjoyed being out in it....

Puppies and kids know how to make the things that adults consider "a pain".. tons of fun. I just enjoyed watching them run and play....

Abbie couldn't wait to get out there.. she kept asking me "can we go now Baby??" I put her off for a little bit, because it was pretty cold and very windy... but just before lunch, Abbie, Papa and Baby all bundled up and headed out. She got a couple of new sleds for Christmas and Papa offered her a ride on one of them.

She had a pretty good time taking a ride up and down the driveway...

until the wind....... the snow started hitting her in the face (and being so close to the ground she really got it...) and she decided that this wasn't as much fun... she kept saying "make the snow stop"... so our outside adventure was short lived, but fun. We came in with rosey cheeks and had a nice lunch all together.

As the day progressed, it got colder and the wind really picked up. I am guessing that winter has found us again... as it should.

back to normal... projects around the farm

2012-01-04T08:58:00.001-08:00

I don't have any photos for this blog :( they're in the "other" computer... the other "sick" computer!!!! again!!! Ed bought a nice laptop maybe five years ago. At first he used it for his business and such, but then decided that a desk top computer really was better for the business... so, I got to take over the lap top. I love that lap top, because I can sit while he watches TV and watch and blog at the same time. But then, the little lap top got "sick".. so we took it to the doctor and he made it better.. and sort of said.. it was beginning to get old. Still we used it, and it went along well.. and then... it got sick again. And has been sick for a number of times... but this time.. I think it really has had it. Now, the folks that are living in the big camp this winter are computer geniuses.. and so we took the lap top to them to see if they could fix it.. and they did, but said it's probably time for a new one. I guess lap tops don't typically have long lives.

We decided to go and look at a new one... and found that if you don't want too many fancies (and I actually don't' want ANY) you can get a nice little lap top for a fairly reasonable price. So, we did..... the old lap top is back at the computer doctor (along with my photos) and the new one is up and running. I know... ever heard of "backing up" the things on the computer... well, yes... but it's one of those things that requires "doing it".. however, I promise, this time... back ups will be in order. Our friends believe they can save our photos, and if I can get them off the old computer, I'll be happy......

So... with Ginger off to college, it's time to get busy with other things. One big project involved Rick and his wood chipper again. We've been wanting to clear some of the wood behind the barn to make more room. Rick is (sadly) in a quiet time of his work, so he offered to come and work with Ed. They got a nice big area cleared, and all the pines either cut up for the furnace or made into chips. Now, I can move our manure pile out of sight and we're going to set up a tent building to house the wagons and sleighs, and they'll be undercover.

It's been a strange winter, even for New England... fairly mild and no snow... high 30's and bare ground in January is really odd.... I don't know if we'll slide threw like this or if it's going to sneak up on us and we'll get slammed with "winter" towards the end... time will tell.

I have opted to grab any extra days I can at the post office. I worked all last week and it looks like I'll be covering the next few Fridays. Might as well.. come good weather, the last place I will want to be is inside!!! I had hoped by working these few hours each week at the post would cover our hay bill, and it seems as though it has. So that's a nice feeling.

I feel as though there isn't too much exciting going on... just winter.. just normal... but all in all, normal is goodr

Ginger goes to college.....

2012-01-03T15:52:00.001-08:00

well.. here we are - "turn in day", and the second time that I have done this. Saying goodbye to this gal is going to be hard... very hard!!! I got to keep her longer than we did with Chester... she is a bit of a "softer" dog and so the extra time gave her the chance to grow up a little more and experience more things. I don't know if I actually spent "more time' on ginger than I did on Chester, but we certainly became very close. She is a great - great dog!!!

It was a pretty cold day, and I was hoping to run around the farm and take all kinds of photos of her here and there... but I wimped out, and settled for these few by the old hay cutter. She, of course was a good as could be and put up with all my foolishness.....

"where are we heading now, Mom?"

Along with Ginger, Leo and T turned in as well. How many times have these two goldens ridden together in the back of the truck??? countless.... and it was so much fun for Kathleen and I to have the chance to raise siblings together. Only one thing could be even better, to have them graduate together!!!! (that would be really cool)

Bernice and I traveled down together - Kathleen had a trip planned many months ago, so she left Leo with me to take in for her. I was happy the weather was good and the traveling was easy.... can't always count on that in January. Here Bernice and T head in.....

I pretty much cried the whole trip in... and then while we were there.... going over the final reports with Dave and just getting used to the idea... this is "IT"... We'll have the chance to meet up with the puppies again, but from here on in... they are no longer ours... this is "goodbye".....

T... looking regal and like he is ready to go to work.....

Ginger and Leo sharing a secret.....

and then.. it's time.. I speak her name and she turns that sweet face and asks "what can I do for you Mom"...

I give her that one last hug... that one last kiss... hand the leash to Dave, and walk out the door... my job is done..... Ginger's is just beginning....

I hang the vests by the door... once they were Chester's... then they belonged to Ginger...

and we wait for who's next....

because between the tears, I am all ready to do it again...........

saying goodbye

2012-01-01T16:29:00.001-08:00

Happy New Years... and I hope that my "title of the post" isn't too sad, but in a way, the new year does say goodbye to lots of things -- other than the old year. Saying goodbye isn't always bad, like when you loose some weight - you don't mind saying goodbye to those extra pounds.. or paying off a bill... things like that, but saying goodbye certainly can be sad.

Ginger certainly wasn't sad today!!! Kathleen is going to visit family, so she dropped Leo off with us.. to take care of and to return to NEADS on Tuesday. The "puppies" certainly had a grand time together....I let them right out into the dog yard and they got to racing, tugging with the toys and digging in the mud. They were a complete mess, but I'll deal with that tomorrow....

To say I'm going to miss this dog is an under statement. We have become very close and I truly love her.

The last night here with us, I took tons of pictures, especially with Abbie, because I doubt that Abbie will actually remember Ginger. We talk to her about Chester, and show her the pictures and will do the same with Ginger. I wonder what she will think as she gets older about this puppy thing that her grandmother does!!!

As sad as I do feel, I know I will continue to this puppy raising "thing" for a long time. My goal is to raise at least 10 dogs... and any interim - which do come along occasionally, like Edgar. So, we'll see.

Big hugs and kisses.................

"don't worry Ginger... it's going to be great, and you're going to be great".....

So, Tuesday's the day.... hold on dear reader, the next blog may be a bumpy one!!!!!

new year's eve day...

2011-12-31T04:00:00.001-08:00

New Year's Eve day... a bit like any other Saturday, in that I had to work. But that was OK.. it was a quiet steady, the morning went quick, and I was out by noon --- my usual time. The only glitch was, it was raining, and with the ground being so cool... everything turned to ice once it hit. Pretty, but dangerous. My mail truck was 30 minutes late... thankfully the mail volume was "small" so we quickly caught up, so glad that didn't happen during the Christmas rush.

We had been invited to Lauren's for a bon fire later that evening, but I backed out. Worried that the roads would be not fun on the ride home.

I felt sad to have done this, but we'll have to catch up with them on another day.

We did, last minute, decide to go to dinner with Kelli and Rick and catch a movie... so the evening wasn't without entertainment. And were home early... I'm not much of a party person ...and to me, New Year's feels more like the end of the holidays than the beginning...so, it was a good way to say goodbye to 2011......

photo opts

2011-12-30T13:34:00.001-08:00

Babies in the house!!! And though they are exactly "ours"... they are certainly a welcomed addition. Our friends, the Gamble family - asked if they might come one afternoon and do a family photo opt. This is a rare occasion for them, with one daughter, son-in-law and grandbaby living in the south, and the other daughter, son-in-law and grandbaby living in Germany.... it's hard for this family to be together... but they were over Christmas.

Julie, the photographer (and another friend) thought the farm would have many good places for photo opts... and so, it seemed it did.

It was fun to watch, and see the farm in the eyes of someone else. How many times do I walk past places and never "see" them... but then from behind the camera they become "a really cool place".....

Abbie was fascinated with the babies... she had a million questions for their Moms......

Pictures were taken both inside and out.... I felt so special and honored that they would choose to use our house for this special time together....

even the little sleigh was put to use, and with snow flakes gently falling......

Abbie wanted to go for a ride. "Once the snow comes back.... once the snow comes back"......

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T17:08:00.001-08:00

Christmas morning, and in the few quiet moments, with a warm cup of coffee.. I sit and look at the beautiful tree with it's bounty beneath and I remember how truly blessed I am. I say thank you to God, for sending His Son to save us and promise us a home forever in Heaven... and I say thank you for the amazing family that I have been blessed with and humbly think of all the blessings that surround me. And I pray too for those who don't know our Lord, and ask that they might come to understand the real meaning of Christmas.. and wish to all my "readers" blessings for this day and the new year that is ahead...

I think that this Christmas morning has been one of my favorites, other than when the girls were little. I loved waking up Christmas mornings to eager little girls who couldn't wait for the parents to roll out of bed. This year, we had Abbie for Christmas morning.. so Kass "gave up" her usual Christmas breakfast, and she and Nate traveled to the farm ... to have Christmas with us and let Abbie have her Christmas at home. While we waited for them to arrive... Sadie tried her hand at a new project... spinning. We were given this beautiful spinning wheel just a few days ago.. and since both Sadie and I have this on our "to learn" list... she jumped on the chance to take it. We kind of know how it works, and have been playing around with it.. but after Christmas, we plan to go and learn the correct way!!!

Abbie dug into her stocking... it kept her busy until Tee Tee and Krunkle could arrive. Hunter was most interested in what she found in that stocking as well......

And soon, "my" house was filled with kids... and for a Mom, there is nothing better in the world than that. (Thank you Kas and Nate....)

and then "it" all began....................

"Merry Christmas!!!!"

I could have watched Abbie all day long.......

and she became the expert at opening.. and gave advise to everyone on how it is done!!!!!!

The house is a mess and I love it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Here are our girls..............

Nate is a huge Lego fan... so I picked up a couple of little "projects" for him to "play with"

Abbie was pretty happy with her Legos... and loved playing with Krunkle and learning how they all go together......

Uncle Bill joined us as well... and after presents, we had a great family breakfast... then everyone was off... Kas and Nates' to Dave and Deb's... Abbie off to her Dad... Bill to friends and us to my folks....

but the morning is a treasure that I will always keep

We had a wonderful lunch, visit and more presents with my folks, sisters and their families. The day was relaxed and such fun. I love Christmas when it isn't rushed around....

My Mom, niece, and sisters......

Naomi got this cute little puppy and thought it looked just like Ginger... and so it does... and now, Auntie Sue has to make a cape and gentle leader so that Naomi can begin to work with "her service puppy".....

And then Christmas was over, and real life will creep back in... but we'll have these magical hours to keep forever.

Christmas Eve...

2011-12-24T20:08:00.001-08:00

Since Christmas Eve was on a Saturday this year, I had to spend my morning working at the post office. Saturdays are my usual day to work, but we're only open half the day (all the time).. so it really wasn't any big deal. Overall, it was pretty quiet at the post, everyone having done all the mailings the weeks before, but enough folks stopped in to make the time go quick.

We still had some of our snow from the other day... it's so pretty...

Our plans for Christmas Eve - going to Kass and Nate's church and then to their house (our old house) for a light dinner and the first of family get together's....

Kas and Nate's church is a large baptist church.. and they were expecting so many, that they set the evening service up in their gym. Good thing too, the place was packed (probably close to 600 people). We knew many folks there, it was old home week, and I even got to see my cousins. The service was very good, well organized and geared for families. I greatly enjoyed it, and couldn't help but think why our little church struggles so and this one is so up and going.....

The children were so cute, singing their songs and saying their little pieces....

After church, we headed over to Kas and Nate's... the whole ride over was pretty with Christmas lights everywhere. The old hometown was all dressed up........

Charlie had received one of his presents early... "think it's big enough Charlie, will there be enough to last threw Christmas"

We had a wonderful supper together... and then opened some gifts. Since Kas and Nate would be at Nate's family on Christmas, my parents brought their gifts down to them. My Mom gave Nate this "singing deer head" for his man cave. It was pretty funny and he was quite surprised.... oh and the gift that we gave him.... a jump out of an airplane!!!! (which will be it's own blog next summer when he does it... stay tuned!!!)

Abbie got to open some presents as well.. she will be at her Dad's on Christmas afternoon, so again, it was easier for my family to bring their gifts to her at Kass's

It's just so grand to spend Christmas in this house - our old house, and to see the family there together. I am just so grateful that Kas and Nate wanted it for themselves and kept it in the family. They are taking such good care of it, and making it over into their own..... it just makes me s happy.....

Abbie loves having time with Tee-Tee and cousin Naomi...... The evening flew by, Christmas is well on it's way.

"the stockings were hung by the chimney with care......

in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there"....

day before the "day before".....

2011-12-23T15:36:00.001-08:00

"there's no place like home"... "or I'll be home for Christmas"... or... maybe Abbie just liked these "ruby red shoes" for her Christmas dress, but either way.. they are the new favorite and she sports them everywhere she can - including bed. And so, the Christmas days are here and I have been stretching them out for a long as I possibly can. Last night, we had Kelli and Rick for dinner, and a chance to be together before we all get "too busy" with our families. We had a nice dinner and a visit...

And they brought a "few" things for Abbie to open. What is it about watching a child open presents at Christmas that make it one of the most wonderful blessings int he world. Abbie is beginning to put this all together, she wasn't quite so sure "why" a tree came into the house, and talks about "Santa paying a visit"... but she doesn't really get it, just yet.

After going threw her own things, she was more than happy to help the rest of us open gifts as well.

When we had opened all the gifts, and just the wrappings were left....

We discovered the best present of all.............

It sort of seemed like we were in for a green Christmas this year. Snow for Halloween and for Thanksgiving sort of made it seem "unfair" that we wouldn't have it for Christmas.....

But during the night.................. and on this "day before the day before"..... it all came together, the farm had a new winter coat.

These are my friends that I work with at the post office... Meg, Dan and Cynthia. I was invited into work for a "Christmas breakfast" and a chance to have a quick visit. We are all so busy during this season, that even when we work together, you can't "visit".. so it was nice to take a few moments out and do that. It was also another nice way to begin my "day before"...

The roads looked like this as I traveled home from the post. Kas and I had plans to meet up and "do something fun" on the "day before"...

Ed was loading the furnace....

and it felt as though Christmas had finally arrived. Kas and I met and poked around Portland, finding a few of those last minute gifts and just really enjoying the time.

And from all of us, here on Sweetgrass Farm... we hoping that everyone has the most wonderful Christmas filled with family and friends........

that's a service dog???

2011-12-22T14:51:00.001-08:00

It would seem that this winter is going to offer us the strangest of weather. First it's snowing and blowing... then it's mild and rain, and back to freezing once again. Typical New England, but I sort of wish "it would make up it's mind". And while I always appreciate the mild weather, it isn't without it's hazards....like soft ground... soft diggable ground!!! and doggies that like to dig.

And one afternoon, I look out to see this..... Ginger, "puppy" and Daphne all out having a grand time...

I called them over and this is the view I got... like little kids, they had a grand time in that new hole/mud puddle. Oh my!!!!

I asked Ginger if she thought this was appropriate for a service dog... and she didn't seem to think that anything was wrong. If ever people wonder "do those poor dogs ever get to be real dogs???" well, this should pretty much answer that question.....

All I can say is I am SO grateful that the fence yards leads into the basement of the house - (and also were the dog tub is).. because you can be sure THAT in NOT coming up into my house!!!!

After play time of course... and just for the record, I won't feel one bit bad to have the cold weather back... and some ground that is frozen!!!!

shortest day...

2011-12-21T18:36:00.001-08:00

Today is the shortest day of the year, well... light wise that is, with all that I wish to accomplish, it better not be any shorter time wise!!!! The Christmas cards are coming in on a daily basis... I love receiving cards... some think it's an out dated thing, with emails, facebook, blogs and all.. but I am happy to see that not all agree. I mailed cards this year.. I didn't last year, we were newly in the house, I didn't have a clue as to where my address book was, and for some reason, I didn't seem to have the time to do them. I missed not doing them, so this year, got onto it.

I know we don't get as many as we used to, but they still are making a nice "frame" around the dining room doors.

Our guest doggies are beginning to arrive for Christmas... we will have five staying with us. This is Daphne.. she is a six month old Great Dane and a real sweetie pie. Abbie was (is) quite taken with her. She thought Edgar was a big dog...

But Daphne has them beat for sure. And to think she is really just about half her size.... kind of like having a pony in the house!!!!

So, as this shortest day comes to a close.. and tomorrow the light begins to lengthen... we still have a lot of winter ahead of us. Guess that means, cuddle up by the stove and enjoy just being at home.

moving into winter mode...

2011-12-19T07:22:00.001-08:00

Mostly for the record, we moved into winter mode in the barn. All regular buckets were replaced with electric... water heater put in the big tank.. bird waterers were swtiched out. The cold weather has arrived and it's onto winter work.

a visit with Santa...

2011-12-18T17:48:00.000-08:00

Today was a fun day, Linda - our chapter leader - arranged a time for all the Maine service puppies to have their pictures taken with Santa. We met at Cabela's to see Santa and do some "store" work. It was pretty busy with Christmas being so close and the puppies got a lot of attention from both the employees and the shoppers....

All the dogs did well with Ol St. Nick... I keep calling them "puppies", but really they are quite grown up now. We have received the official work, and Leo, Ginger and Loyalty (T) will all be returning to NEADS the first week of the new year. Christmas will be bittersweet.....

Not only is this a fun opportunity, but good training as well. Service dogs often come across costumed people, and it's good to know that they are not frightened or upset by them. These guys all gave Santa and the Mrs. happy greetings.

Then we had Linda pose with all her puppies. She has been the Maine Chapter leader for 18 years, so she has seen many puppies go threw the program.......

Just as the puppies were finishing up with Santa, we heard a familiar voice and turned to see Dave and Sean!!! They were doing a bit of shopping at Cabela's... we talked Dave into "visiting with Santa" too.....

Next week is Christmas.... I have a feeling the week will fly by.....

another one????

2011-12-15T12:50:00.001-08:00

It doesn't seem possible that Ginger has been with us just over a year... a bit longer than Chester was here, but it's just the timing that has made this so. Because she has been here "this long", she needed to go to see the vet and get her shots updated.

Certainly much bigger than she was a year ago when she sat on the scale. She weighs in at 68 lbs.. "perfect" size for her breed, and a nice size for a service dog.

We know for a fact that just after the New Year, she will be heading back to NEADS for the next phase of her training. Down Maine Vet Clinic has been her sponsor all year long (outstanding people!!!) and Dr. Nikita has been the vet she has seen the most. (she likes her doctor!!)

So, I just wanted to get some photos of the two of them together before Ginger moves on. I will admit, when it's time for Ginger to go on, I will be very sad... I loved Chester the year that we had him, but our relationship was much different. Ginger and I are very close, she is a real "huggy" dog and has always liked to be very close to me... I'm going to miss that. However, I think Camille will be happy to have her "mommy" all to herself again!!!

And ... take a look at this!!! I had been looking for sleighs all fall, and never found one. Then, on Veteran's Day, we came across - and bought - our "first" sleigh... here's the second!!!!

I don't know if it's the time of year, and people are pulling them out - or what, but it seems like there are "sleighs everywhere" right now. Ed found this one on "e-bay"... placed a bid, and "won".....

This is a sweet little sleigh, it was built around 1820 in Vermont. The man that had it said he had another sleigh, and was approached by a man who thought that sleigh was one that he grandfather had owned. It turned out, he was right.. so he offered to trade another family sleigh for the one that had been his grandfather's, and this gentleman was happy to make the trade. He only used the sleighs as decorations, so it didn't matter to him which one he had.

This one has been restored around the turn of the century.. the floor boards had to be replaced, but the neat thing... the floor boards are boards that came from the farm where this sleigh had been used. The seats are adjustable as well... they have pegs in them, and you just set the pegs in the holes where ever you want the seats to be. The runners and metal work are in excellent condition, and all it needs... a set of shafts... so now Ed has two sets to make. But we thought it would be fun to have both sleighs out at the same time. I think this one will "fit" Tonka better and the other will be for Duke. I'm excited, and wanting a bit of snow after Christmas. I have it in my mind to have a nice Sunday afternoon, invite our friends, and have an afternoon of sleighing , bon fires, and good eats......

We have had some other exciting things going on as well. Abbie has a new friend!!!! This is Hugo, newly arrived from Korea. Our friend and "sort of" neighbor has adopted him. They have been waiting for the past year for Hugo to arrive in the states and he came two day after Thanksgiving.

What a dear little boy he is. And he and Abbie hit it off right away. They had the better part of a morning playing together and getting to know each other. Here Abbie shows off "her" turtle....

And we were pleased at the way they both shared the toys and enjoyed each other's company. Sadly, Abbie doesn't have too many folks her age, so I think she was truly happy

As seemed Hugo. So welcome sweet boy, I know your family is so happy to finally have you home and I am sure you are in for a very loved and happy life!!!!!

And then last (but not least) it was time for our annual Christmas gathering with the friends in my dog club....

We had a good turn out, as you can see, there are quite a few members!!!

The main event of the evening, other than eating tons of great food, is our mystery auction. We bring wrapped gifts with clues and then auction them off. The monies are either spent on "special projects" or used as donations... Abbie was more than happy to help Wayne decide which present would be auctioned next.

She thought it was all pretty exciting and had a great time at the party.....

I find this very hard to believe. This is me and my dear friend Pat.... we met when we both joined the dog club... in........... 1982, that means we have been members (this coming year) for 30 years!!!! I just can't even think that... 30 years a member of one club... plus our friendship of 30 years. We can name all the dogs we have had together, and all the shows we have done together... all great memories!!!! and yes, the time has flown by...... my goodness!!!!

oh my.....

2011-12-12T14:01:00.001-08:00

Do you remember that nice sturdy tree we got... that HEAVY tree we got.

well.... heavy trees should probably be tied to things (like big beams in a timber framed home)... because if not..................

You may find yourself with several broken things.

Fortunately, the dogs were outside when this happened and Abbie wasn't home. I was baking cookies and watched it go over (kind of like in slow motion)

It was easily re-stood, Ed got some nice tuff bailing twine and we tied it in place. The lights were re-arranged and the ornaments that survived were put back. But sadly, some were badly damaged.. and even sadder.. some were ornaments that Abbie had received as gifts. Oh well.. all replaceable.... but next time..

tree will be tied....

afternoon parade...

2011-12-11T18:29:00.001-08:00

The "trouble" with this time of year... too many good things to enjoy. And since I do love the Christmas season, you will find me.. cramming in everything possible....

And so, we find ourselves at another parade. This time it is to be a "part of" instead of "watching"... my local dog club has participated in this parade for more years that I can remember....

We met up with friends (this is Kelli with Otis and Edgar)..and brought along our farm hay wagon and a tractor....

We unloaded at the end of the parade route, and then rode down to the start of it... Ginger, Camille, Hunter and Trevor thought they were pretty special having a front row seat. (I think they would have ridden back as well..but we were there to walk)....

Some of our member couldn't walk such a long route (and that included Abbie).. so that is why the tractor and wagon came along. I would have loved to use the horses instead of the tractor..but we still have much training to do before we try something like parade.. though I will say.. there were a lot of horses there. Abbie had a grand time riding in the wagon and munching on snacks....she was so good and enjoyed waving to everyone.

and here's our group. We had a good turnout and the folks along the parade route seemed to really enjoy seeing all the dogs...

I wished I had taken more pictures than this. But between helping Ed with the "vehicles"... keeping an eye on an active two year old, and holding four dogs... I was quite busy in "other places". Still it was a grand afternoon, the weather was cold but bright, and just one of those wonderful events that makes Christmas so special.....

Abbie probably won't remember this day exactly, but I do want her to always think that her grandparents are up for having fun and finding neat things to do.... (and yes, she is eating again!!!!)

Christmastime cookout

2011-12-10T17:43:00.000-08:00

I would like to tell you that I knew this was always there, that I had seen it several times before, but the truth is... I had no idea it was there...

can you see it... in the beam???

Yes, it's a heart. It's on the beam that is just in front of the woodstove hearth. Our friend Rick noticed it the other evening when he was here for a visit (leave it to a logger to notice something like that). The saying that the "hearth is the heart of the house" must be true, given where this one is placed. So, I can say.. this house has a heart....

The Christmas decorations are all finding their place. Since this is only our second Christmas here in the house, I still don't kn0w where "everything belongs".. but things are finding their place... this is my collection of Breyer's Christmas horses.. Ed got me the first one in 2000, and has made a point of getting one each year... so far I have ten... trusting that number ten is coming this year!!!!!

Now, since Ed's procedure, and now that he is feeling so much better. His next goal is to get some weight off, and hopefully with that, get off some of the meds that he has to take. We have (in the family) a licensed dietitian... Miss Lauren, (Nates' sister). So, I asked Lauren if she would come and give us a lesson in better food choices. She came this afternoon and spent a couple of hours with us, setting up a "starter" game plan and helping us understand the labels on foods and such.

After our food planning time, Lauren stayed, and since neither she or new husband John had been to the farm, I invited them to dinner, along with John's parents, Dave and Deb and Rick and Kelli, and of course the "kids".

I asked the girls if they would get the tree decorated while I got things ready for our cookout... they had a fun time doing that.....and I enjoyed watching the "kids" decorating the tree once again...

Abbie really got "into it". We told her that she couldn't handle the "glass ones" and she would look into the ornament bucket and ask "is that glass??" It really didn't take her too long to figure out what "glass" was and she was good about choosing the proper ones to hang. Though she did tell me that the "tree bit her"....

We had a grand full moon, and as I said earlier, the meal was a real summer time cookout. In another week or so, we'll be having the traditional holiday foods, so I thought something different might be great fun.....

It was a cold night too, but Ed didn't seem to mind having the grill duties. That steak and chicken sure looked good cooking there.....

And as I have said several times before, I love having people in the house. I love the sound of it, and seeing folks enjoying themselves. It's a great house to entertain in, and I try to do it as much as I can.

Summer foods and winter decorations... why not....

Abbie thought the meal was great. She pretty much kept her mouth food of wonderful things.....

But was happy to give "baby" a big smile her front of "her" Christmas tree... how do you like the Lion King??? Her new favorite....

And she'll tell you... "this one not glass".... kids and Christmas.. does it get any better than that????

THE tree

2011-12-09T16:33:00.001-08:00

The time has come, it's Christmas tree finding time, and Ed and I headed out to find this year's perfect tree. We have a few Christmas tree farms very close by, so it's just a matter of picking which one to go to. We decided to go back to the farm that we went to last year, we found a beautiful tree last year and knew would we again this year. We were trying to find a time that Sadie and Abbie could go with us, but between all our schedules, that wasn't working... so we went ourselves.

I thought this was interesting sign and a neat bit of trivia.....

It's a beautiful place and you can tell that they put a "ton" of work into it. Lots of trees to choose from, I feared this could take hours!!!! (just ask any of my family how fussy I am when it comes to finding that perfect tree!!!) Fortunately, the day was grand weather wise, and we didn't have a time schedule, so if it took hours.. so be it....

However, we weren't even there 15 minutes and there was "my" tree, just standing there --- waiting for me. A beautiful blue spruce. Now, many people (including my family) don't like the blue spruces because they are so prickly and hard to decorate (when the needles are pricking you) but I especially like them. I love the blue color.. and I love how heavy and sturdy they are, because I have a lot of heavy ornaments that other trees sometimes can't hold up.... AND, I have never had one cat climb a blue spruce.. so, if I can find one.. that's my choice!!!

This was quite a mature tree, so it has (has) a thick trunk and is very heavy. I like the way this farm will send the tractor down to pick up your tree.. besides we had had some rain, and it was muddy on the pathways, our tree would have been a real mess if we had to drag it back to the truck.

We got it home, and in the house. It's so pretty on it's own that I wondered if we needed to add ornaments and lights... but of course we will.

And so, here it is.. our 2011 Christmas tree.. or as Abbie says... "MY Chrisssmass Tree, Baby!!!"

getting ready...

2011-12-06T09:21:00.001-08:00

In the hussle and bussle with Ed's surgery, Thanksgiving and the like.. I sort of forgot about the Fair Quilt. Each year, if you remember, they hand out a little patch of material and a theme... with that, you go home, come up with a quilt block of the "theme" and use the piece of material that was given to you. Well, here's the piece of material and the theme... "remembering the 60's". Now, I was born in the 60's but I don't remember them... so part of not doing my block sooner was a lack of an idea. The deadline for having your block in was Nov. 30th....

I mailed mine on December 2nd.. with hopes that it won't be considered "too late". Here's my block... I tried to go with the "peace, love, hope" idea... making the piece of material into "VW beetles" as I do know they were popular vehicles during that time frame. I hope people will "get it".. but I won't know that until the fair next August.......keep you posted on that one.....

I just had to post this photo... This is how we begin each day... a sweet little gal, with all her favorite things (the horse is new)... cuddled in Papa's chair.. watching the Lion King. Even after her "horrid" trip to the Rain Forest Cafe... she still loves her Lion King... I can almost say it word for word!!!!

Our old home town had it's annual Christmas parade. Ed has been feeling so good.. we packed up and headed down to see it. They line up on our old street......(and the parade is usually bigger than the parade route!!!) That's small town New England for ya!!!!

The family... (or part of it) waiting for the parade to begin....

Ginger and Camille came along... so did Charlie, Banjo, Hallie and Ollie...

After the parade, we went back to Kassy and Nate's for supper and goodies... and can officially say..

Christmas season has begun......

back to the city

2011-12-01T18:41:00.002-08:00

What a look on this precious little face. It used to be "my look" at the thought of traveling to a big city. Traveling "south over the bridge".. yup that was me... raising service puppies changed that... having to do that monthly check in in the big city!!! And actually this look on Abbie's face, was her expression with regards to the Rain Forest Cafe. But.. let me back this story up just a little....

Ed had his surgery done on Tues (11/29) trip one to the city. Then on Wednesday (11/30) it was back to pick him up... trip number two.

When Kas and I had walked the mall the day before, we found a Rain Forest Cafe. It's a pretty neat restaurant... and looks just like a rain forest (I guess, I have never been to a real one before) but it has vines, and trees, and "animals"... all kinds of neat things. So, when we had to go and bring Ed home from the hospital, I said to Sadie come with me and we'll take Abbie to lunch at the cafe.

I thought she would be thrilled to go. She loves animals... watches the Lion King on the TV daily.. and I thought she would be so happy to see all the jungle animals....

I thought wrong!!!!!! She was sacred to death!!!!

We told her none of the animals were "real" and it was all pretend...and we managed to get her somewhat close to the "animals"...

and told her eating under the trees was like a picnic....

But all she wanted was.... "let's go home"... so, we finished our lunch... went to get "Papa" and headed for home. After the past couple of days, I think we were all more than ready to be just at "home"....

However, my trips to the city weren't over yet. We had planned our puppy check- in for December 1st. I seriously thought of staying at home with Ed, but he was feeling so good, that he told me to go. Sadie and Abbie were home with him... so trip number three (all in the same week) back to the city.

We met at NEADS and then headed right out to do our work. The "puppies" are so big now that we can just get them going. Elevator ride... seven service dogs!!!!

Then we waited and went again in smaller groups. By now, this is old hat.. and even I am getting used to them.

Hard work... all this service dog training stuff....

We have alot of siblings in this group... here is T and his brother Honor... then Ginger, Leo and Clover are all litter mates... and Edgar and Otis...

Beside the hospital, we also played at the train station again. Luck was on our side... this huge freight train came thru just as we were needing a good distraction....

I'll never be a "big city" gal... but I am getting used to them (it)....

Otis and Edgar.....

I have to agree Edgar buddy... enough of this city stuff... three trips in one week, I need to get back to the country and to my Ed.....

surgery

2011-12-01T18:41:00.001-08:00

Oh.. my Ed. He is here at the Lahey Clinic in Mass.. getting ready for a procedure known as Cardiac Arrhythmia adjustment.. aka... get his heart beating in a normal rhythm again. For the past number of years, his heart would go in and out of a regular rhythm known as "a-fib". Lots of people live with this, and it won't "kill you per say".. but it's not the way your heart is suppose to work. At first, meds would help keep his heart in better rhythm but lately, even those have not done their job.

Some days, Ed has felt very tired, a bit short of breath and no energy... not good when you live on a farm and have a life style that is busy. He is also struggling with his weight and other medical issues, that this whole heart thing plays a big part of. After meeting with is doctor, they both decide that it's time to get things in order.

At first, the thought of him going to Lahey Clinic terrified me... a "big city hospital".. far from home, over night stay... but once we arrived there.. most of my fears were quickly put to rest. This place knows what they are doing and knows how to take care of people... they were (are) wonderful.

Kassy took the day off from work to come and keep me company. This "operation" was a six hour procedure... we sat in the waiting room for a bit and then decided to walk around a near by mall to pass the time. It was a nice mall, already for the holidays, and both of us commented that it was kind of sad to "find it" under this kind of situation. We said that we will go back sometime when we can really enjoy being there.

Ed came thru it like a trooper. He said that even just out of surgery, he actually "felt better"... such encouraging words after such a long day. We got him settled into his room, and wouldn't you know... the fire alarm goes off. An announcement comes over the hospital loud speaker, asking everyone to stay put, and look what parks just outside his hospital window....yup--leave it to Ed!!!

Kas and I headed for home.. Sadie and Abbie had everything taken care of on the farm, and even though Ed wasn't there, I was happy to get into my bed. It had been a long day. Tomorrow it will be another trip back to bring him home... a few days of rest, and he can pretty much get back to life...

Thanksgiving...

2011-11-24T05:43:00.000-08:00

Not that we haven't ever had "snowy" Thanksgiving, but when I got up this am to get the turkey in... the sunrise looked more like a Christmas morning than a Thanksgiving. Fortunately it wasn't that cold and this snow - like Halloween's- will probably be gone in a few days.

It was windy, and even though this snow was pretty wet and heavy, it still blew around some. The view from the barn doors looks so cold and winter like.

We had a pretty quiet Thanksgiving, just the kids. Abbie couldn't wait for Tee Tee to arrive and watched at the windows all morning long. We tired to get her to watch the "balloons" on the TV, but that only kept her interest a short time.. she wanted Tee Tee..and then we found out "why"... according to Abbie "Tee Tee play outside with Abbie"

It was good snow for snowman making... so that was the project at hand.

Abbie admiring their work.....

She had to re-arrange the eyes a little (and replace the carrot nose that Banjo took).... but all in all... her first little snowman, made on Thanksgiving day.

Time for dinner!!!It was so yummy and we are so blessed to be together.

Perfect time for a photo opt... course, getting everyone just right at the right time....

Takes a little practice... but well worth it. Happy Thanksgiving everyone, hoping your day went as happy as ours!!!!

two for two??

2011-11-23T16:15:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving is tomorrow.. and today, as I traveled out to meet a dog client - who's dog is staying with us over the holiday - THIS is what I followed along the road... Really??? Wasn't it "bad" enough that we had a "white Halloween"... does Thanksgiving have to copy???

I guess so. Since we woke up to about six inches of heavy wet snow. Sunday was in the high 50's and today... high 20's... so much for New England. However, you can deny the beauty of it... and I found several things to take pictures of.

Thinking that once this snow goes, I will need to get those fall decorations moved away from the old mower. It will be time for Christmas decorations anyways....

The dogs certainly enjoy the snow.. and since it's that time of year...

I might as well too.... (though now I wished I had chosen wood over horses last Sunday :) )

a country Sunday

2011-11-20T18:35:00.001-08:00

Goodness, it's Sunday again. Ginger and I went to church (alone) Ed was battling a pretty bad cold, Sadie was working and Abbie is with her Dad.. so,it was just Ginger and I. Such a nice service and a great way to begin the day --- and the week. As you can see, Ginger is a pro at church.. but unlike Chester, she lays quietly the whole service. Chester got so used to the "routine" at church that during the closing hymn.. he always sat up and said "it's time to go".. silly dog. Everyone so enjoys having Ginger there, and of course, always ask when she will be leaving us....

When we got home, the first thing I did was get a turkey out of the freezer. Thanksgiving is this week and if I don't get a bird unthawed... we may not have one. This is one of the smaller birds... just 24 lbs... we aren't having as many here for Thanksgiving as I had originally thought.. so I had to find a smaller bird.

It was the nicest afternoon, the temps were in the high 50's and this wood pile was starring me in the face. Even though all of it won't fit uncover... we need to be getting it inside... this weather we're having now is not going to last. But, somehow.. I just couldn't "waste" it on wood......

and went to the barn instead. Annabelle seems to think that I have disturbed her napping time.....

but there are a couple of horses that need to have some work done!!!!Ed helped me harness and we brought them out to the new hitching post. It worked great, and made getting the reigns on them so much easier. With the post I could do this alone..which is what I had in mind....

and then off we went. Even though there is no hunting in Maine on Sundays... I thought it would probably be wise to wear my vest. And since we also went out on the street, it does make it easier for the cars to spot us... though I don't know how you can miss these two....

I spent the afternoon ground driving... I need to work on my own driving skills with the team. I do well single.. but a team is different..though a few more afternoons like this, and I'll be in the wagon...

perfect Sunday.....

festival of trees...

2011-11-20T05:27:00.001-08:00

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!!! Well, not at our house.. just yet.. but certainly at the Festival of Trees which is an event put on by a local garden club. Actually this event happens every other year.. and this year, was the year.

Now in a sense, it is also a contest, where local clubs and businesses are encouraged to "enter" a tree with a theme. Almost since this event has been happening, my dog club has submitted a tree - dog theme - of course. It is usually a favorite, the public gets to vote for their favorite tree and many time we have come in second place. This year our design crew was determined to come up with a first place winner.... as of this blog, the tally is not in yet.. but I can tell you.. our tree was good enough that this photo appeared on the front page of the local newspaper.... we are anxiously awaiting for the results.

Our tree was just one of many wonderful displays.. and to be sure, it put you in the Christmas spirit. The weather was just perfect... a little cool, but not cold (we have gone some years where it was bitter....) The crowds were HUGE!!! and in fact, we didn't get to see one section, because - honestly - I didn't have the patience to wait in the line. But what we saw was just grand.

I decided to bring Ginger along.. knowing that the crowds would be big., and she did very well. Most people were respectful of her knowing she was "working" but there were a few that just came over and patted her without asking. Par of the course I guess

This is the "north pole" tree..... and there were just so many things. It was hard to get good photos, but these will at least give you an idea of what we saw.

So, with Thanksgiving this week... I guess I can officially say... Christmas is just around the corner....

graduation day...

2011-11-13T18:38:00.001-08:00

It would seem that Ginger sensed the day ahead was going to be a special one. When we arrived at the Four Points Sheraton for the NEADS fall graduation, she had this look on her face as I took her out of the car. I hate to think a year ahead... but chances are, next fall graduation will be all about Ginger... however, this year....

It's all about Mike and Chester!!!! And here they are, I haven't seen Chester since last April when we had the meet and greet at the NEADS campus and I got to meet Mike for the first time, and see "our" Chester once again. I have kept in touch with Mike via facebook, so I know that he and Chester have really hit it off... but to see in in "real life"... was just so wonderful.

And for the second time, I had the great pleasure of once again, seeing "my" graduating service dog and "my" service puppy in training together again. This is truly a rare moment, seldom do puppy raisers have the chance to see two of their puppies together. They really seemed to like each other.

Abbie came along with us - as well as Kass and Nate (Ed was there of course)... sadly Sadie had to work. Abbie was thrilled to see all the dogs, especially the ones that she knows well. She doesn't remember Chester.. but she sure did like him.

The first event of graduation... getting the photo. This is done by a professional and the pictures he captures are always great. I thought it was so fun watching how they "do it"... the NEADS trainers help set up the dogs...

and here is my "sneak" photo of the professionals. (That's Chester sitting in the middle of the top row)... And when you can get 21 dogs to all sit together and "smile" for the photo.. now that's a feat!!!!

Graduation is a "big deal" and even though I don't know him very well, I could tell that Mike was pretty nervous about all of this. He isn't the type that really likes crowds and a lot of fuss, and he knew that he would be going on stage in front of hundreds of people. He also shared with me that he had not been feeling well and had even had a couple of days at the hospital..so he wasn't up to his best. But Chester sensed all of this and did what he does best... cuddle and make you feel good... I remember well those moments!!! He would often do "lap" for me as well.

Abbie was such a good girl during all the speeches, Kass kept her well entertained. Here Abbie shares a book with "uncle Rick"... while waiting for the graduation to begin.

This is Gerry - the CEO of NEADS. He has just completed his first year, and from what we heard in the annual meeting, overall NEADS had a pretty good year. The economy hasn't been very helpful to anyone this year, but non profits have been hit quite hard. NEADS due to excellent guidance had come threw the year in a "not so bad" way. It's good to know that this organization that does so much, is doing "well"

If there is any question about "does Chester like being a service dog".. well all I can say is... you can see it in his face. This dog smiled the whole afternoon......

You can tell he is well loved and that Mike thinks the world of him

The first group of graduates where the combat veterans. Among them.. our friend Russ and his dog Joe..... (first ones in line)

Russ was pretty nervous getting up in front of everyone. But he gave a nice speech and was so proud to tell everyone about Joe and what a great summer they have had together. Russ and Joe were in the same training class that Mike and Chester were in... that's how we met....

Russ might have been nervous, but Joe took it all in stride. I guess being a service dog.. you're just used to all kinds of attention....

Service dogs were the next group on stage... that was Mike and Chester. Mike spoke a few words as well.... Chester looks like "so what else is new"... the calmness these dogs have are one of the greatest gifts to the owners.

This is a nice photo... Mike and Chester, and the pretty lady in red.. that's Karen, she was Chester's sponsor (and loved meeting me when we were at events) and the gentleman beside her, is her friend.. it was his dog who's name was Chester and she named "our Chester" after his beloved Chester... a good name carries on...

After all the ceremonies and speeches, there was some time for a few more photos (I can't even count how many I took). But I wanted to get one photo of Abbie with Chester, since she will be too little to remember when we had him, or this day, I wanted something that she would have to look at one day. I love how Chester is all cuddled beside Mike, he is definitely his dog. (and Ginger is cuddled in with me).....

One last kiss and hug, and it's goodbye. Not likely I will see Chester again-- and I was pretty thrilled that just after this photo, Chester reached up and gave me a big (wet) kiss. The chapter has come to a complete close.. Mike and Chester head off onto their lives together.. Ginger and I enjoy the last few weeks together.. and the service puppy raising continues....

"my very best wishes to my golden boy and Mike... I hope your days together are long and happy".....

11-11-11

2011-11-11T06:16:00.001-08:00

Today we celebrate Veteran's Day... I found this photo on the Internet and felt it was most appropriate for the day... Thank you to all who have served in the past, and to those who continue to protect our home....

Since it was a "holiday" I had said to Ed earlier in the week that I would like to take a day trip somewhere. I had thought of a few different places that might be fun to visit.. but wasn't too sure where we would end up. We really should have stayed home - been adults - and got some projects done around the farm.. but ya know.. sometimes, it's good to have a change of scenery. I was also talking with our friend Becky.. telling her that I have been on the watch for a sleigh. Just a nice little sleigh that we could play with around the farm, and maybe do a sleigh rally this winter.... upon saying that Becky was pretty sure that she knew of a sleigh for sale.

So, as it turned out... our day trip was up to see Becky and Butch on their farm. It's been a couple of years since I was there last - for a riding clinic - and I had forgotten how pretty the country side is in their neck of the state. When we arrived, I had to pay a visit to Dick... one of their original horses... for an old boy - 32 years!!! - he's in pretty good shape and seems to be enjoying life as a big pet. Both Becky and Butch are very fond of him and are giving him a great retirement.

We had a nice visit together... got some lunch...and so did the others on the farm...

And then we went over to check out the little sleigh that Becky had told me about. Actually these folks have a few horse drawn vehicles for sale... they have a real cute cutter.. but it would have been too small to put behind our guys...

and then they showed us this little gem. It was made around 1800... and is Canadian. The gentleman got it at an auction... he did a few minor repairs to it.. but it's pretty much just what you see here.

The runners are nice and solid and it can sit four, it's big enough that the drafts can fit in front and the price was well within my budget.....

We decided to bring it home......

With little effort, Butch and Ed got it up into the back of the truck.

I was excited to see how nicely it fit.. this means we can put it in the truck, hitch our trailer and bring horse and vehicle to somewhere and go. There are a number of sleigh rallies that go on during the winter and I am hoping we might be able to attend one or two this winter.....

Before we left, Butch took us to see the sleigh that he and Becky restored last winter. They have it in storage now near their home, but once the winter weather comes, they'll pull it out.

This is another little gem. They put quite a number of hours into the restoration of it, but Butch said it had good bones to work with.

The seat was one of the biggest part of the project, they re did it in red velvet and nipped and tucked all those buttons. Becky said their hands ached after that project.. but it came out perfect...

The craftsmanship and details that went into these little sleighs of the century is amazing... people took real pride in their work back in the day. This scalloped design on the back of the seat proves it. We need to bring these kinds of things back....

But anyways, I am looking forward to a fun new project for the winter.... I'm sure there will be blogs on this to come.

puppy night at the mall....

2011-11-08T07:05:00.001-08:00

The service puppies are looking more and more like service dogs these days. Now that the summer craziness is past, and before the holiday crazies begin, we are getting together to do our training. Last Saturday night we all met at the local mall to get the puppies out and about. I was really surprised at how busy it was... and to think it only gets more so as the holidays come close.

We met in the food court, had the puppies do their "unders" under the table while we had supper together and chatted about things that are going on. The pups did great and as long as we get a big enough table, we can put them all together. They know to be quiet and not fool around while they are all there together.

all total -- there were six dogs under the table. Most of the people around us didn't even have a clue that they were there.

I had forgotten how much the mall has to "offer"-- course the people - lots of people... food, elevators, kids, noises... the list goes on and on, it's a great place to "work".. especially when the weather turns off cold.

T and Ginger taking a little ride. This is beginning to be "old hat"

Ginger even got to work in the "bathroom" :) got to practice everywhere!!!!!

day around the farm

2011-11-08T06:36:00.001-08:00

Fall has returned!!!! our wonderful snow has gone, and we are again enjoying the last of the warm(ish) weather. Ed and I are crazy busy getting the outside work buttoned up, because that cold weather is certainly back on it's way. The big guys were snoozing in the sunshine....

as well as old Silver boy. He had a really good summer, and has some "fat" on him. He's going into the winter weather better than last year, so I feel less anxious about him. At this stage in his life, every day is an extra.

Since the weather was so good, I got brave and let the "baby" guinea hens out of their pen. It's just so hard to wrangle them in at night sometimes, that I sort of hate letting them out. But, we got them to "go out" and sometime you gotta let 'em loose.

We got the last of the new gates put in. Amazing what kind of help you can find when you are doing new projects....Tonka has to be the noisiest thing and he likes to know about everything that is going on. Pretty funny when a 1300 lbs horse is getting underfoot.

Course, Silver wanted to be part of the action as well.......

Annabelle was happy to supervise.....

and there is it!!! a COMPLETED project!!! all the gates are in place and we'll see how that works with the snow plowing....

remember our wood project... even that's coming along. We took a big chunk of it this weekend.. now throughout the week, I will get the split pile in the tent building.. and then we'll be back on the cutting pile. I'm not so sure this was a good idea, and we may change our plans for next year (Rick!!!!)

We think our tractor is "cat powered".....

and the last of the weekend projects.. our new hitching post. This is so I can hitch the team together when there aren't extra hands around. Can't wait to give it a try....

and another week begins on the farm... next weekend we go to NEADS graduation where we get to see Chester again.....

it is November

2011-11-05T09:41:00.001-07:00

Just HAD to put this on the blog!!!!!

one of those projects

2011-11-03T18:02:00.001-07:00

In a way.. this "freak" snow storm was a real blessing, because it showed us "what's to come" and still allows us a break to get it done. This lovely mound of snow is what came off the barn roof. With the lean to roof over the stall doors, it doesn't land directly in front of them, but each snow drop has to be moved so the horses can get out. Our "poor" rope fence just doesn't handle this so well, and all last year, Ed said, we needed to do something different. The pull on the fence and the risk of catching it in the snow blower.. makes it a real pain to deal with.

So, after this storm, we went and bought three gates to put in and back the fence away from the drop zone. Fortunately the ground is not one bit frozen, so Ed popped the post hole digger on the tractor so we can put new posts in.

and the rope fence won't be an issue this coming winter....

One gate that we already had was moved....(can you see the kick marks in our doors??? drafts!!!)

and the new gates, which are 12 feet wide - plenty of room to run the tractor threw... went on in the pasture.

Now, when the snow comes sliding off this big roof, it will hit the gates... Ed has them swinging so he can easily work the tractor around them. And this is one project that should make the winter work a bit easier....

course, we still have a long list of "other winter" projects to do.. hopefully the snow will stay away!!!!

Halloween....

2011-11-03T17:40:00.001-07:00

It was kind of hard to think "Halloween" between the snow and our company, but it came. In the "old home town" trick or treat is done on October 30th - we called it Beggar's night. Sadie had always planned on taking Abbie down for a bit of trick or treating... but due to the snow... Beggar's night was postponed until Halloween night. So, she met at Kassy's and the three of them went out to a few houses. I had to work,so I missed out on that fun, but I guess Abbie really "got into it" and would pound on the door and yell "trick or treat"....

Her costume this year.... a frog. We are still wondering where that came from. Sadie began to ask her back in September what she wanted to be for Halloween. Every single time the answer was the same... a frog.

All of us began to search high and low, and we weren't having much luck. One evening after we had been to dinner, I went into a local material/craft store and saw they had kids' costumes 60% off. Ed and I went thru each one, and we came across a dinosaur. I looked it over and thought that if I took off the teeth, I might be able to make it look "frog-like". Then I noticed on the floor a big pile of costumes.. so I began to dig threw them and would you know... there was ONE frog left, and it was Abbie's size!!!! Perfect!!!
(God wink) so, she got to be a frog!!!

Now Ginger was on her puppy swap and was spending Halloween with Linda. They were having a costume contest at Cabela's.. so nothing doing.. Linda dressed Ginger up as a hula gal. As you can see - from this photo- Ginger took it all in stride....

One thing that NEADS suggests is that we get the puppies around "costumed people".. Ginger certainly got that exposure this year!!!

She snuggled with everyone. As it turns out, there was a prize being offered for "best costume" and it was done by vote. Linda emailed me this evening... Ginger won!!!!

Halloween turned out to be rather fun this year.. we certainly got "tricked" by the weather and "treat" by the fun...

Happy Halloween everyone!!!

the rest of the weekend.

2011-11-03T07:39:00.001-07:00

Believe it or not, the first order of business Sunday morning was finding the TALL boots.. because the walk to the barn was going to be a snowy one for sure!!! After Saturday's night storm, we were left with at least a foot of snow... it's hard to think of this as Halloween weekend...

The barn looked warm and cozy as I approached, but right away - noticed the fence was down. With the snow being so wet and heavy, it slipped right off the roof and onto the fence. We have been meaning (all summer) to replace some of the fencing with gates that would (#1) stand up to the snow slides and (#2) be much easier to plow around. Guess we best get onto that project asap!!!

Becky and Butch's team spent the night in the ally way. This is Ben and Bill... they seemed pretty happy in their overnight accommodations....

But I don't think Tonka was so happy with the company... or maybe it was because he (and the others) were locked in all night, or maybe because Butch is here and he knows it will be a work day.... or maybe.. he's just grumpy!!!!

We spent the morning visiting with Becky and Butch and having a grand breakfast. It also gave the day a chance to warm up - the sun came out, and Butch was all for working our team. They (well - Tonka) has been giving us some trouble all summer, and needed to have a little one on one time with Butch. Since Sadie was at work, Abbie got to spend the day with us in the barn... and rule number one here --- you must wear your helmet when in the barn and around the horses. Fortunately, she thinks her "helmo" is pretty neat and doesn't mind keeping it on.

We got the boys harnessed, and right off Tonka began his tricks. Which actually pleased me, because Butch could see first hand what we had been complaining about. He and Tonka had a little discussion - and then Butch gave me some tips.....

And after that -- it was right to work. We did a bit of ground driving -- Duke was great, and seemed happy to see that Tonka was finally acting like a team mate.

Abbie and Papa followed in the gator, Ed wanted to see the lesson too, and this was an easy way to keep track of Abbie. She enjoyed watching the horses too... and kept telling me "good job, Baby"

We are so fortunate to have Butch and Becky as our friends, and so willing to come and give us a hand. I am feeling encouraged once again and anxious to keep the positive time on a roll.

We got the hooked to the wagon, and went out for a drive... it was nice for me to have Butch sitting beside me as I drove, encouraging me and correcting the things that I did wrong. It was a good ride...

and we even had passengers.......

a couple of tired horses at the end of the day....good thing, because they will be locked in for another night until we can get the fence put back up.

We fed, put the tack away and got the barn all tucked in. Abbie took care of the cross ties....

and then Butch and Becky, packed up and headed for home. They will be doing rides at LL Beans for the weekend before Christmas, so we plan on trekking up there to see them again...

in the meantime, the team and I have work to do.

what is this?????

2011-10-30T17:45:00.000-07:00

I feel like there are two stories from the weekend. One, visiting with Becky and Butch and working the team...

and two, the record breaking weather. Official reports put our snow fall between 14-16 inches.. at this point what does it matter... it looks more like January than October.

Good thing, it won't last, there is still plenty of fall season left... but the pictures will be fun to look at......

remember --- it's 10/30/11

Halloween hayride!!!

2011-10-29T21:27:00.001-07:00

All week long, I have been looking for to the weekend. I try not to do that, because I hate rushing time, but when such fun things wait ahead, it's hard not to. Our good friends, Becky and Butch were coming to do an annual Halloween hayride, and afterwards, coming to the farm for a visit and to work with our team. Last year, when we helped them with this ride, it turned out to be a cold and rainy night. I hoped we wouldn't repeat that weather this year, especially after having that bit of snow earlier in the week. The weather folks said something about a storm, but were pretty sure it would stay south... by the end of the week, that report all changed. And as the week went on, it changed more and more. By Saturday morning, they were predicting an other "nor easter" that was going to bring SNOW instead of rain. LOTS of snow.

Ed and I decided to take this forecast seriously and we did some picking up around the yard and made sure all was ready around the barn. Since the report said "wet and very heavy" snow, we got read for power outage... let's face it, here.. outage is common place. By the time we did everything, we got to Becky and Butch on the later side of their ride. The pictures will tell you what the weather was up to by then.

Bill and Ben looked more like a Christmas postcard than a Halloween hayride. The wind was really picking up and the snow was very wet... so when it hit you, it melted and you were very wet. Butch was about done and was watching the team closely for signs of chill...

Fortunately, the party folks had about all the rides they wanted, and told Becky and Butch to pack it up and head for "home"

The team seemed so happy to be unhitched and ending their evening. Ed and I did what we could to make the packing up quick. The roads were getting bad quick and the horses needed to be cared for.

They got on that trailer quickly and we headed back tot he farm. The drive home was "interesting" fortunately Ed, Butch and Becky are all good drivers. It took us about 20 minutes more than it should have, but the good news, we made it safe. The Belgians were brought into our barn, groomed up, fed and were warm and cozy when we headed to bed.

Outside, the night looked like January - not October. The wind howled and the snow mounted fast.

At bedtime, we already had this much.....

and it continues......................

first snow.............

2011-10-27T17:00:00.000-07:00

7:30 at night.. a little girl should be putting on pj's NOT boots. What??? well, for one thing, tonite "It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown" is on, and Abbie just HAS to watch that...

but heading out the door???? What is outside that would cause us to head out with Abbie???

How about the first snow of the season!!! It's really way too early for snow, even in New England.. but since it's here....

and Abbie really doesn't remember it from last year... it's time to celebrate!!!

It took some doing to get Abbie in from playing in the snow. She loves to be outside anyways.. but to go in the dark and when it's snowing.... made it double hard. However promise of the Great Pumpkin helped (even though she didn't know about that either)

She watched most of the show, I thought it was a riot to see her sitting on her birthday bike and watching the show. And just for the record, yes, she can ride that bike and the house has become a raceway!!!!

As we headed to bed, this is what is was like outside. We're sure to end up with at least a couple of inches.

Friday morning I had to work at the post, so I was up just before the sun. I must admit (and I still say it's too early - for snow)... the farm looked beautiful in it's new winter coat.

The view from the kitchen window... this will be common place before too long, but right now... it's all brand new!!!

OH... and for the record.. today is my Dad's birthday... so Happy, Happy to Dad!!!!

Ginger???

2011-10-27T16:40:00.001-07:00

Hey, wait a minute... this isn't Ginger?? What's going on here?? Well, actually Ginger is away on a puppy swap... I know, I only have a limited time with her and she is away!!! But, talking with Dave last Monday, and realizing she has some transitioning to do heading to "college"... we (Dave and I) thought that one more puppy swap might be a good idea for her. So, when we got home, Rick took Ginger with him and I got to have Otis. And since brother Edgar is still with us, not only was this a good puppy swap for Ginger... but for Otis as well.

Ed was in need of some new jeans, and I have been looking for some "winter type clogs".. so, we took an afternoon to do some shopping and brought Otis along. He was very good in the store, got lots of compliments and put in some work time. In the shoe department, I tried to put him under one of the small stools you sit on...

He tried to go, but we soon realized, he really was a little on the big side. Either way, he laid quietly and allowed me to shop for shoes... which I did find the perfect pair.

The store -- Cabala's... Otis had to pose with the moose!!!!

Shopping, it seems - is hard work. At least Otis thinks so and snored the whole way home. And Ginger.. well, after a few days with Rick, she is moving in with Linda -- because Linda really wanted her one more time, and a second transition will add to her training...

but we sure are missing her here!!!!

pumpkins or jack o laterns....

2011-10-26T16:23:00.000-07:00

With Halloween just a few days away, it was time to carve some pumpkins. While it is fun to do this tradition, I am more interested in getting those pumpkin seeds. I love roasted pumpkin seeds and look forward to having them each fall. So, when I am choosing pumpkins, I always look for those who might contain the most amount of seeds. These were the four that I picked for this year.

It's so fun to have Abbie at the age where things like this are beginning to make some sense to her. She has enjoyed seeing the pumpkins out on the stairs, but when we brought them in, she was quite excited knowing something was "up"

She watched every step carefully....

And was fascinated to discover "what's inside the pumpkin"

Lots of seeds in this first one.. this looks promising....

We showed her what to do and told her to save as many of the seeds as she could. I was so surprised that she really caught onto this and was very careful to pick the seeds out and put them on the cookie sheets for roasting.

Even better, this project went so well that we had very little mess to clean up. Abbie wanted to be sure she had the proper "cover" for each pumpkin.

Which now are jack-o-lanterns!!! from all of us here on Sweetgrass Farm...

Happy Halloween!!!

a day with Ginger..

2011-10-24T17:48:00.001-07:00

This month, we made the trip down to NEADS abit sooner than our usual Thursday. There had been some talk that it might be turn in day for both Ginger and Leo, and if so, we needed to get them there, so they could go on the next van headed to the prison. With that in mind, I thought it might be fun to have a playdate with all the service puppies... afterall, with this big fence - what could be better.

The brothers... Edgar and Otis got together right away. I don't think dogs know that they are related in a way, but I do think they understand they have a connection.. at least it seems that way to me when I see Ginger and Leo together and now these two....

My yard is full of retrievers... how did that happen --- I'm a spaniel person.....

After a couple hours of playtime, this is what the group looked like. Quite happy to chill while the humans warmed up with some treats and a good visit. If this isn't proof that a tired dog is a good dog... than I don't know what is.....

After playdate, we headed over to a favorite restaurant for dinner with Kelli and Rick (Ginger and Otis).. not only is the food good... but they make it very clear about the way they feel with regards to service dogs!!! Ya Poor People's Pub... you can bet we'll come and visit you.

So, the next day, we were up bright and early and on the road to NEADS. Ginger seemed to sense something and rode most of the way with her head over the seat, just to be close to me. Is it hard to give up a service puppy.... well, you tell me....

When we arrived at NEADS.. the first thing Dave said was "no turn in today"... there's a lot of planning, arranging, scheduling that goes into all this training "stuff".. and for this month, it did not all come together. Ginger and Leo are heading back for a little bit longer.

We had such a good time working at the train station, that we told Dave we wouldn't mind going back there again. There are so many great "things" to work with - plus things that you don't expect...and certainly different from being on the farm. Here we practice "under"... Dave is giving Stoney a little extra help with his....

By now, Ginger has this one down pack... she has done many (many) unders..

A time to do questions and answers.. go over where the puppies are in their training levels.. and just a moment to chat and enjoy being all together as friends and as puppy raisers...

We headed out to the loading platform hoping we might have the good luck of having a train pull in. We lucked out, and actually had a huge freight train come thru. At first it caught everyone's attention, but after the 20 (or so) car went by, all the dogs lost interest.

After the train station, we went over the hospital to do (ughhhh) the elevators. In case you didn't know.. I am NOT an elevator person, and would avoid them at all costs. So.. for me to ride one over and over and over again... is huge. I do it for "my dog"... but won't say I am exactly happy about it. From this photo, doesn't seem like it bothers Bernice or Kathleen!!!!

And then, the trip home usually looks like this.. hum - tired dog thing???

So, now we wait to get the official word from Dave with regards to turn in. I know it won't be much longer that Ginger is here with us... but while she's here, the days will be filled with enjoyment.

it's lit..................

2011-10-22T12:57:00.001-07:00

We've had a few chilly mornings, and some cool evenings, and the little stove has done a good job... but the past couple of days, there has been a major change in the air, and it's time for the big "stove". We're one day later lighting it this year than last (which Ed was quite pleased about)... so, a good clean out to make sure all is in order....

And here we go... (how many days until spring??)Actually it's very easy to work with, we (Ed) fills it twice a day (feed horses, feed stove) and when we get our pile all cut, split and put away.. the job isn't going to be so bad.

Last year we bought our wood cord by cord (poor Rick).. he would bring us a load, and then we either had a tarp over it, or tried to hussle it into the tent building - which we didn't get up until quite late in the season. But this year, we bought tree length and as we cut and split, I get it inside.

This pile still looks huge, but we are more than half done with it. The nice part is, what is done.. is done. I like it that way, keeps the yard picked up, gives us room to work, and the wood under cover has stayed nice and dry during some rainy days that we have already had....

Many of the leaves have already gone by.. it seems as though fall came and went and I didn't even see it.

So, what do I say here.. except "Welcome cold weather".. might as well get along with it, because it's here for awhile and plans on staying.......

Happy birthday #2...

2011-10-16T16:07:00.001-07:00

10/16/2009

10/16/2010

Hummmm... a special Mermaid cake... the request of a "two year old"... and I can hardly believe that we are celebrating two years already. "Tee-tee" (aka Kassy) made this cake for Abbie, and she was so excited to see it.

So here we are, "another" October 16th and it's birthday time again. Abbie really know "what" it's about this time around, and as the presents came thru the door, she could hardly contain herself. Usually there are "favorites" when it comes to gifts, but I can honestly say, Abbie thought all the gifts were her favorite... the kitchen was a big hit though (and she got Tee Tee to play with her right away)

and a new bike from Meme and Beepa..... (which didn't take her too long to figure out how to ride)
and so many more and wonderful gifts from family and friends...

She beamed when we sang "happy birthday" and (much to my sadness) she said "happy birthday to me" as clear as could be --- birthdays used to be called "happy cake"... now it's said for real...

Here's my family... it's so nice when we have the chance to be all together!!!!!!!!!!!!

and not only was Tee Tee's cake cute, but yummy as well....

I can only imagine what Christmas is going to look like. She's a very lucky little gal....

all the "kids" had fun playing with the toys, and it was a great way to end a wonderful day...

Happy #2 Abbie......

love visitors!!!

2011-10-15T18:41:00.001-07:00

One day last summer, one of the drivers at the post office, was telling me about his beautiful little daughter, and how much she loves animals. I told Darren that he just had to bring her to the farm for a visit, because animals... are things that we have. Every now again, when I was working and he brought the mail in... I would remind him that he had to bring her to the farm. Well.. today they came. They had spent the morning apple picking and knowing they were close by, popped over to say hello. His little girl was a sweet as they come, and so enjoyed meeting "everyone".. dogs, cats, birds.. and of course... horses....

Right away, she fell in love with Mocha. We are so lucky, because Mocha is absolutely child safe... I snapped a lead rope on her, and said... "have fun"... and the two of them were off.. walking all around the farm. (Love this photo... who has the longest pony tail???)

Mocha loved all the attention, and of course the opportunity to get a bit of green grass....

I hope they get the chance to come back again... I just love seeing folks enjoying our pets as much as we do.

so why.. since we have "cockers" did we need to put a fence that is six feet tall??? Because we have more than two legged visitors... we have many four footed ones as well.. and not all of them are cocker sized....

Great Dane anyone??? This is a client's five month old puppy who came to stay for the weekend. She had a grand time and it was so nice to see her out playing in the yard and not having any worries about her safety...

And more four footed... Mary came to Abbie's birthday party (next blog) and brought Banjo's sisters with her.

The Chessie's always enjoy a good run in the field.. and us...

we always love company!!!!!!!!!!!!!

picking apples...

2011-10-13T17:17:00.001-07:00

Today we took Miss Abbie (and miss Ginger) on their very first apple picking adventure. The apples this year are really good, though they do have small "bruises" from that horrid hail storm we had last August. But other than that, they are sweet, red and perfect. The gals at the apple orchard took a few moments to give Abbie directions in "apple picking".. she was very interested in trying it out.

We headed off into the orchard. What is it about these types of things... like picking out your Christmas tree, or picking apples... you (we) ended up walking by many trees all loaded with apples, thinking the next row might have something better??? Why don't you stop at the first tree (Ed asks every year in the Christmas tree hunt!!!)

It didn't take Abbie too long to get the hang of it...

This is SO her Mom's face!!!! Sadie does this all the time.....

Ginger was so interested in the whole process, especially when Abbie offered the apples that she had taken a bite out of....

Oh-oh... spillage!!!!! No harm done, just put them back in the bag.....

Question two.. and why do you need to pick the apple that are just out of reach... aren't the lower ones good enough????

Not too sure how many we brought home with little teeth marks in them... they'll make good apple sauce just the same....

Hugs for a job well done, and a happy day together.....

Happy fall everyone...

hope you are enjoying the warmth and the colors.. because you know what comes next.....

firemen, field trip and fair!!!!

2011-10-09T18:43:00.000-07:00

This week is "fire prevention week" and firefighters all over the country are making appearances in school, pre-schools and day cares, teaching children about "fire". Kass was looking for "someone" to come and talk at her pre-school, and (sadly) having no luck with her local department, she asked her Daddy to come and do the honors.

The children had been "studying" fire prevention all week, so they were pretty excited to have a real fire chief coming to visit.

(Ginger came too and acted as "fire dog")

Ed wasn't able to bring a fire truck, but he did bring all his gear and dressed up so the kids could see a fireman in "working attire". They talked about not being afraid of a fireman and (heaven forbid) if they were in a burning place, to look for the firemen and try to get to them, instead of hiding away from them.

The kids were pretty attentive (and loved each receiving their own little fire hats) Some had questions, but mostly they just listened and watched.

Afterwards, Ed encouraged the kids to try his gear on, and to touch it and play around with it. No one seemed that sure... so Miss Jessie tried the bunker pants on....

and then everyone got in on the game. Who knows, this little chap one day, might grow enough to fit into a pair of fire pants!!!!

Abbie was just delighted to go to "school" and see all the kids. And actually got to spend the rest of the day there, because Ed and I had other things that we needed (and wanted ) to do.

Fire safety.. it's a good thing for everyone to know.. hope you are up to date with your knowledge of it....

After Ed's talk, he had a doctor's appointment in the neighboring town., I brought ?Ginger along because the mall was close by and I thought we should do a bit of "mall work". With the days of her return ticking down, it's now or never.....

We poked around some stores, which are no longer a big deal to her.....

But the little critters in one of the pet shops did catch her attention. She is so gentle with little things (we have three guinea pigs) so she tends to just watch them quietly until you tell her to move along. She is such a good girl, and I feel that I have brought her along about as far as I can... it's time for college.

We then brought Ginger back home, gave all the other doggies a break outside, and it was back into the truck and out to the fair. This is one of the bigger fairs in our area and actually runs for a week. Going on one of the quiet days is a very good choice and the weather was just perfect.

I loved this sign... and thought - I guess my horse couldn't be on this end of the barn!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ah, yes... this is familiar!!!! I am so pleased we got to see this class.....

Handsome animal!!!!!!!!!!!

Now, anyone my age and local will know what this is!!! The original Cinderella's coach from Storyland. When I was little, this was drawn by two white ponies and it was my favorite ride when we visited. Some years later I was sad to see the coach was "motorized", and I had wondered where the original coach had gone.... well... here it is!!!!!And in very good condition....

A stone crusher powered by a tractor.....

and the animals. This is a huge agucultcure fair and the animals were just wonderful.....

prize winning cow and calf....

and the top winning bull. He was impressive, but I think I was more impressed by this little gal that handled him - and believe me, she could handle him...

It was a grand and very busy day... but fall days like this are to be treasured, as they don't happen often enough.....

Project... W.O.O.D

2011-10-09T14:17:00.000-07:00

It sounds all romantic and "country" like... cutting your own firewood, preparing for the cold winter days ahead.. enjoying that "nothing like it" wood heat and watching the fire flicker in the stove when the snow is falling and the winds are howling ... ahhhhh

However, at this very moment, all I can think is how tired I am... right down to the core, bone tired. Cutting, splitting and stacking wood is work, and not that I am afraid of work... never have been... but it is work just the same. I know that I am going to so appreciate watching the oil truck pass by our house (we don't even have an oil furnace in the house - we're strictly wood power).. and I must admit, I would rather put our "heating money" into the pocket of a real American logger than some mid east millionaire that I will never know..

but that just doesn't change the fact... I'm tired... Ed's tired ... we certainly have great respect for wood folk who do this day in and day out as a living. We're about half way thru this year's pile, and it does seem nice to see the big pile get smaller and the piles in the wood tent get bigger..... and tomorrow, after some good supper and a nights sleep.. we'll be back at it again.

"wood heat" - it warms you more than once!!!!

another HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

2011-10-01T12:06:00.001-07:00

It's a little hard to tell - from these photos - who's birthday this really is... but I guess that's the difference between being almost two and turning 26, the "almost two" wins out. And it's Kassy celebrating her birthday, with help from Abbie - (who will be two in just a couple of weeks). We told Kas that we would be happy to take her out for her birthday, but she said (and I agree) that it's hard to visit when you are in a restaurant. She also said, she had a turkey that she wanted to get out of the freezer, so she opted to cook her own birthday supper and asked us to come.

Abbie, of course, was delighted with the whole evening. Getting to be with her "Tee-tee", having Happy Cake and opening presents, she was quite certain the evening was for her.

I don't think that "tee-tee" minded so much...

and even if she didn't get to blow out her own candles, she knew that we wish her all the very best for the upcoming year. And we are so blessed that this beautiful young woman is a huge part of our lives...

Happy Birthday Peeka!!!!!!!!!!!!

"THE" fence!!!!!!

2011-09-30T17:55:00.001-07:00

Much excitement and anticipation around the farm these days... Cam and Tazzy watch from the window... they can't wait!!!

Hunter takes stock of the situation from the front door, watching all the activities.....

Ginger, checking out the progress .....

So, whats' all the fuss........... the fence is going in!!!! I feel like I have waited forever for this fence, it has been the main topic of my conversation for the past week (sorry friends).. but it's going to make "life with dogs" so much simpler...I am too excited.

True, we have many acres here on the farm, which often makes people ask, "why do you need to fence in an area?" Well, lots of reasons, one being the local wildlife. We have had our run ins with porcupines, skunks, fisher cats and the like, and loose doggies and those sorts of things don't go too well together. And secondly, my guest doggies... our little boarding kennel is turning out to be fairly popular, and I have to have a spot that is secure and fun for our "guests".

The last gate, I could hardly wait to open the door and let the doggies out!!!!

And once they were out, they hardly knew where to start...........

racing, running, enjoying the beautiful fall weather...

and all safely home with no worries for me....

Life is good!!!!!!!!!!!!

the latest check-in

2011-09-22T17:02:00.001-07:00

And here we are again... our check in at NEADS. I know, I'm always saying "didn't I just blog about this??" and here is another story. There is a chance that this will be our last official check in with Leo and Ginger.. Dave is in the process of working out where they will go next and the date. But either way, we won't have too many more city check in's with them :(

The main focus this trip was the train station. It turned out to be a great place to work, as it had so much to offer. Slippery floors, stairs that were "open", elevators... noise, people, the list went on and on. By now, the puppies are pretty well seasoned, and it seemed no matter what popped up around us, no one was bothered in the least. This is a good group we have going, and I expect that we'll have many success stories from them all.

As we were working along the platform, a train pulled in. People hurried to get off the train, rushing past us, pulling luggage and other things. The puppies seems sort of sad that no one really took the time to notice them. Dave saw that the train had a little lay over, so he asked if we might have the time to walk on and off the train a few times with the dogs. No troubles there. Actually I had the trouble, as there was a bit of a space between the train and the platform that you had to step over. (I was the only one that seem to see it)... but, once I managed to conquer that, it was fine --- Ginger didn't see what the fuss was about.

We waited until the train pulled away and then packed up... went back to NEADS for some supplies and a last minute chat with Dave, and it was homeward bound. Another fun day in the city (yes I said fun).. think I'm getting used to it...