Anamchara

"All That's Old is New Again"

2012-01-02T12:22:00.002-05:00

The beginnings of a brand new year, full of promise and stories yet to be told, memories in the making, out of sight for now. A time for reflection and for resolutions, that kind of in between time, when we recall our highs and lows over the past 12 months, and look ahead to the next with self-assurances of doing better.

I am thankful for 2011. It was a very good year in so many ways. My family continued to be happy and healthy, and we even added one! I had a lot of fun at dogs shows this year and some very memorable wins that I was able to share with good friends. I had some beautiful puppies, and made some new friends through the pets I let go to loving homes. Generally, it was a year of balance and harmony, with a few thrilling peaks and not many valleys.

Looking toward 2012, I hope to build on the high points of last year and move past the low ones, which thankfully were few and far between. I am excited to see what surprises are in store, will try to make the most of opportunities that come my way, and be wise enough let go of that which I can't control. I hope that a year from now, 2012 will look as good in the rear view mirror as 2011 does now.

Finally, Winter

2011-12-28T22:07:00.004-05:00

Our first snowfall of the season started yesterday and continued in fits and starts for most of today. I believe this is a record, or close to it, for us to not have any amount of snow so far into December. No white Christmas, but it did make for much easier getting around.

In typical sheltie fashion, 9 month old Rush (sable) and one year old Kendall could hardly be coaxed inside. All the old games must seem fresh and new again once the first snow comes; puts a whole new complexion on things!! :)

The Last to Go ...

2011-11-27T19:53:00.002-05:00

This is almost 9 week old Quinn, the last puppy from our last litter. His brother and four sisters have already left for their new homes. He'll be leaving tomorrow, and I thought that I should at least spotlight this adorable little guy, as I just didn't get around to taking "growing up" photos of the others.

Waking up from his nap ...

Wrestling with his favourite toy ... almost as big as he!!

Pups at 3 Weeks

2011-10-17T21:15:00.002-04:00

Jolie's pups will be 3 weeks old tomorrow, but I did these photos yesterday when I had the chance. The two boys were pretty easy. It's not *that* difficult to get two puppies facing a similar direction at the same time. Still, one would invariably be facing north while the other preferred south. Persistence and patience are absolute requirements for shooting puppies!!

But if I thought getting the two males to cooperate was a test, that wasn't anything compared to the four girls. I finally gave up trying to get them at all organized by myself, and enlisted Chelsea's help. Things went much better, but did fall apart from time to time :).

Even Rustle had to get his two cents in ... :).

Maternity Shoot

2011-10-12T20:41:00.002-04:00

My niece Taylor is pregnant with their first baby, due in mid-November, and our entire family is quite ecstatic. We haven't had a baby since our own kids, and this one is apparently a boy, which we also haven't had in 30 years! I was really pleased to do a maternity shoot for Taylor and Bill, something I hadn't done before. I've posted a few of the photos here. Now I'm anxious to meet "the bump", and will hopefully be on hand to capture his first introductions to his new family. We can hardly wait!

Five Days Old

2011-10-02T21:36:00.003-04:00

We welcomed our second litter of the year last Tuesday ... Am/Can Ch Shaydeechase Girl Interrupted - "Jolie" - gave birth to 4 girls and 2 boys by Westar's Roulette - "Jaxson". At five days old today, everyone is doing well, and Jolie is mom extraordinaire!

Group shot (the boys are the second and third from the left).

The girls ...

And the boys ...

Naturally, the "yawning puppy" shot for extra cuteness :).

Updates on Our Hopefuls

2011-09-20T22:23:00.005-04:00

This past weekend was the Shetland Sheepdog Club of Greater Detroit Specialty show, one that I rarely miss but don't often have an entry. I was delighted when Michelle Rogowski (Cassbar Shelties) decided to bring our co-owned youngster, MBPIG Ch Anamchara Prototype - "Kane" (also co-owned with Cynthia Charbonneau, Cynchar Shelties)for the show. I had entered his 9 month old sister "Kendall", BPIS Ch Anamchara Jacquard and our newly pointed 7 month old Anamchara Animal House, "Rush", so it promised to be a fun weekend. The youngsters all did very well, taking first or second in their respective classes, and being pulled for Winners, so it was a very successful weekend. The show is always a lot of fun, and the club does an outstanding job. I'm already looking forward to next year!

Thanks to Michelle, we were able to get some updated photos of the kids.

"Kane", MBPIG Ch Anamchara Prototype (GrCh Rosmoor Protocol X Ch Chelson's Satin Image).

"Kendall", BPIS Ch Anamchara Jacquard.

"Rush", Anamchara Animal House (Am/Can Ch GrandGables The Frat Boy X Am/Can Ch Shaydeechase Girl Interrupted).

Nature Walk

2011-09-11T22:31:00.002-04:00

Best Puppy in Show!

2011-09-06T21:19:00.004-04:00

I headed up to Ottawa the last weekend in August to not only visit my best friend Kim, but also to show my 8 month old tri girl, Kendall. Kim was showing her stunning, multiple Best Puppy in Show winning youngster, Rehannah (MBPIS Ch Laureate Immortality), so the weekend was full of promise for lots of fun. Kendall already had 4 points in two weekends of showing, and I was hoping to gain a little more ground toward her Canadian championship.

The weather was beautiful, warm like you would expect in August, but with a breeze, and Long Sault Conservation Area is a gorgeous park, a perfect setting for this very large dog show, annually hosted by the Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry Dog Association. I did not know really anything about the gentleman who was judging us at the breed and group levels, Mr. Rafael de Santiago, but I was so proud of my girl, that walking into the ring for our Junior Puppy bitch class, I truly felt that I really did have the best puppy there! I could not have been more thrilled when Mr. de Santiago first chose Kendall to win her class, then awarded her Winners Bitch, and if that wasn't exciting enough, to then go on and win Best of Breed! In the group 7 ring, we even walked out with 3rd place win, and then went back in for the group 7 puppies. I didn't think the day could possibly be any better when we were awarded Best Puppy in Group ... but it did!!!

Best in show followed soon after the group judging, and first the mainly adult dogs were judged. Then it was our turn, under judge Roberto Velez-Pico, to compete with the other puppy group winners.

Kendall being examined on the table by Mr. Velez-Pico.

Going away from the judge and then back toward him ...

The judge taking a final look at his lineup.

"The best puppy today is the sheltie!"

Preparing for the official show photo ... what a memorable day!!

Thank you so much, Kim, for taking all these fantastic pictures ... you helped make this day so much more special!

P.S. The following day, Kendall finished her championship, going Winners Bitch under Col. Joe Purkhiser ... now BPIS Ch Anamchara Jacquard!

Pawlooza!!

2011-08-22T20:43:00.003-04:00

This year's Pawloozawas a raving success. Bigger and better than ever, just when you thought that last year's had offered everything possible for the dog and dog lover, the organizers totally outdid themselves. Both in quality and quantity of exhibits, vendors, demonstrations and animal advocacy groups, there was nothing missed in this festival for dogs and animal lovers. "Pawlooza" covers a wide range of interests, and many of them are interactive for both you and your dog. Whether it's agility, dock diving, a psychic reading or tearing loose in the leash-free Fun Zone, the choices are endless. Want to compete in a frozen yogurt eating contest? Beauty contest? Learn new tricks? Or have your (doggy) DNA tested, and really find out who's your daddy ... it's a fun filled day. I took my youngsters Rush and Kendall and in hindsight wish we had participated in more activities, but it was very hot, and we were all thankful for the many water and pool stations!

Pawlooza is held on the private Plunkett estate just on the outskirts of London. This is truly an amazing venue, and we're extremely fortunate to have this event offered on such a gorgeous property.

A photo from one of the entrances; doesn't even come close to showing the expanse of the festival.

One of the many dogs in their best festival attire.

A St. Bernard cooling off ...

And a nearly matched pair of Danes.

This was an odd-looking game sponsored by a spay/neuter advocacy group. I didn't see anyone really "play" it, so can only guess at the object. It was a tad awkward, to be honest, but I did see a number of male dogs lifting their legs in what I can only imagine was their quiet but indisputable comment on the whole thing.

Two Chinese Crested of the hairless variety, one more "normal" sized, the other was quite large. They made quite a comical pair, but Rush and Kendall were happy to meet them. The little one was a total clown ... he just never stopped, and could have kept my camera busy for quite a long time!

\

These two Japanese Chin were looking for somewhere to cool off!

And this older Newfoundland and younger companion headed straight for one of the ponds to do just that. No one standing nearby minded getting a little wet in the least!

The dock diving dogs knew exactly what to do! Well, maybe not all ...

Now this dog made it look easy!

Dog and Pony (and More ) Show - Part II

2011-08-15T21:32:00.004-04:00

The annual Exeter Dodge Rodeo is one I try not to miss. There's just something about the tuned up horses, wild eyed with anticipation, the bravado and swagger of next to real-life cowboys, and the power and unpredictability of the bulls that acts like a magnet upon my "closet" C&W self. Having loved horses all of my life, and fortunate enough to have owned and shown some very nice ones, I'm now happy enough to live the western life style from the sidelines.

The afternoon started with the saddle bronc competition. These are big, strong horses, and mostly bred for this particular talent. They are very good at their jobs :).

Next were the steer wrestling and roping classes.

Sometimes you wonder just who is winning, the cowboy or the steer!

A popular, and what can be very profitable, event is the polebending.

Out of the gate!

Another ladies' event is the barrel racing, which also has the potential to yield significant dividends on the rodeo circuit.

Total concentration ...

Holding her breath ... will it stay up or not??

Finally to close the show, the bull riding. Today, we definitely got our money's worth!

Dog and Pony (and More ) Show - Part I

2011-08-09T21:25:00.006-04:00

This past weekend we were entered at the Kilbride dog show in Milton, Ontario. I was showing my nearly 8 month old tri girl, Kendall - "Anamchara Jacquard". This was Kendall's third outing, and particularly considering the heat, I think she showed beautifully. She won 2 points on Saturday and another 3 on Monday. After one weekend, she's half way to her Canadian championship.

A Doberman in the setup next to us.

Part of the lineup for Group 7 in one of the shows.

The Best in Show competition on another day. It's easy to tell from some of the dogs' expressions just how hot it was!

The pointer standing for examination.

The Boxer, poised and regal.

And a young boxer outside the ring, maybe a future Best in Show winner!

The Pomeranian looking like a winner.

The Bulldog checking with it's handler.

The Pekingese ...

A young Afghan in the Best Puppy in Show competition.

Another puppy, a Portugese Water dog.

I took a break from the dog show on Sunday, and went to the Dodge rodeo in Exeter, an annual event and one of the largest rodeos in southern Ontario. Those photos will be posted in Part II, but here's a sample ...

Long Weekend

2011-08-03T21:48:00.006-04:00

This past long weekend we celebrated my two sisters' birthdays as well as my daughter Chelsea's. My sister Janice was generous enough to host our get-together, and we all pitched in with food and drink, and Mother Nature supplied the picture (and pool!!) perfect weather.

My sister's dog is constantly puzzled and a little unraveled by people in the pool. She just doesn't know what to make of it.

Chels preparing to "throw" Mackenzie ...

My niece and her husband, expecting their first baby in November.

Make a wish!

Looks good enough to eat!

The following day we were off downtown to the Ribfest. In it's 25th year, London's the home of the first Canadian BBQ rib competition, and it's quite the party, drawing bigger crowds, more rides, more bands and more vendors every year.

Family, friends, fun and food ... add made-to-order weather, a guaranteed perfect weekend!

Getting the Job Done

2011-07-10T19:14:00.003-04:00

I went to a local Trillium horse show on Saturday, and even though it was incredibly hot, the competition was just as fierce. I wanted to get some shots showing the intensity of both horse and rider, even if that meant less than picture perfect execution.

What a handsome fella!

This big bay's power was impressive right from the start.

Sneaking a peek at the timer ...

The next jump.

New Champion Multi BPIG Anamchara Prototype!

2011-07-04T10:29:00.003-04:00

Here's the new champion photo of "Kane", with his "co-mom" Michelle Rogowski (Cassbar Shelties) finishing with another Best Puppy in Group under respected breeder judge Mark Houston McMillan, at the tender age of 6 months and two weeks. I'm thrilled with how well Kane has been received, and of course with the fabulous care and presentation by Michelle. Sister Kendall is just starting out, so we hope to make another Canadian champion for Am GrCh Rosmoor Protocol ROM before too long!!

Thanks again to Kane's third "mom", Cynthia Charbonneau (Cynchar Shelties) for allowing me to lease Ch Chelson Satin Image (Keva) for this litter.

(It was a very hot, sunny day :))

Dog Show Catch Up

2011-06-21T22:09:00.002-04:00

I've had a lot of fun at dog shows the last two weekends. First, our "Kendall" - "Anamchara Jacquard" - made her debut at the Western New York specialty show. I was very proud of my exactly 6 month old girl, and received some lovely compliments on her. Here are some candid ring side photos taken by Pete Culumovic of our 6 to 9 month old Puppy Bitch class under judge Lloyd Graser. I think she is fulfilling her early promise very nicely :).

Then this past weekend, Kendall's litter mate "Anamchara Prototype" - "Kane" - was piloted to his first 5 pts. in the expert hands of co-owner Michelle Rogowski at the Kenora, Ontario show. Kane is also co-owned by myself and Cynthia Charbonneau. We're so excited about how well this youngster was received at his very first shows! While Kendall was RWB at the Monarch KC show in Dorchester, the weekend was topped by finishing our "Jolie" son, new champion Anamchara A Step Ahead. "Oliver" is owned by Victoria and Debbie Brewster, and I'm so glad that they had enough faith in their boy to let me show him for his last points after a winter hiatus. Pictures coming soon!

Beach Afternoon

2011-06-01T22:52:00.003-04:00

I closed out my week off work by taking advantage of the sun and warm enough temps that we were finally able to enjoy on Sunday. Still not tropical by a long shot, it was good enough for me!

There were a lot of hearty souls who not only were sunbathing, but were swimming as well. Water sports were in full gear already!

This boxer-type dog and it's two young Dobe buddies had a lot of fun, although none went into the water.

A couple of young guys came to play frisbee, and to give their pet duck a quick swim. When it was time to leave, the duck had other ideas!!

Not a perfect beachy day, but darned close ... it was a great way to spend my last day off!

A 10 Day Long Weekend

2011-05-25T20:08:00.003-04:00

Saturday was an absolutely stellar day. Besides being near perfect weather-wise, warm, sunny, and no rain for a change, it was also the beginning of a long holiday weekend, and the first day of a week's holiday for me. I had originally considered going somewhere hot and tropical for a few days, but when I looked around at everything around home, inside and out, that normally needs to be done at this time of year, and would then have to be left for evenings after work (yuk) or weekends instead of doing something recreational (double yuk), I decided to save my money for other things this summer (like dog shows!) and have a semi-working "stay-cation" instead. Having resolved the what and where, now I needed to get into a festive long weekend frame of mind.

Out with the dogs early Saturday morning, the lilac bush had sprouted a bumper crop of blooms since I had last noticed. It's my favourite signal that spring has definitely arrived.

Having done a few outdoor chores, it was time to head out for groceries and stock up on some "first long weekend of the summer" type of goodies. Almost as important, time to try out my new shoes!!

Aren't they different?? I love them!

The dogs weren't too sure ...

Off to the market for good bread, fruits and veggies. Lots of potted annuals on display ...

Checking out ...

Next, Loblaws. Predictably, the hot dog and sausage vendors in full force, all for a good cause.

A view of what I didn't buy ...

But I'm only human, and a helpless victim of good marketing. Between the tantalizing smell of the grilled sausages out front, and weasely clever marketing skills, I just had to try those adorable little polish sausages and equally cute-as-could-be mini ciabatta buns. They seemed perfect for a holiday weekend barbecue. It's not like I had bought a whole lot of frivolous, not-so-healthy items, right??

Except that I just couldn't resist these new ice cream sandwiches ... after all, I had passed by that whole freezer full of ice cream. I deserved this!! :)

Time to cook up those little sausages, and some peppers and onions to top them off.

Add some fresh corn on the cob ... dinner is served!

A perfect dessert!

Pups on a Rope

2011-05-15T21:21:00.003-04:00

Forecast this weekend was for rain most of Saturday, including thunder storms, and Sunday as well. It hardly rained at all on Saturday, which was a very pleasant surprise, just enough that I couldn't cut the back lawn but not so much that the youngsters couldn't be out a good part of the day. It never takes long after one of them starts dragging around one of the rope toys, that they all want a piece of the action!

Kendall, our 5 month old tri Protocol daughter is usually the ring leader, with Benjamin (Laureate Bonaventure)next into the mix, although in these photos he's pretty much in the background. The two 3 1/2 month olds, Rush and Becca, don't back down from anything. They're a fun group to watch!

Becca taking a break. She is available to a proven, small show home, pedigree on our Hopefuls page.

And Rush taking time out, too.

Reflecting on the National

2011-05-06T21:00:00.004-04:00

I didn't make it to last year's ASSA Nationals, so with the last minute decision to go, I was really looking forward to the trip, seeing all the dogs, and of course new and old friends alike. The National traditionally rotates around the U.S., and this year was held at the Event Center at Purina Farms in Gray Summit, Missouri. It was a spectacular location, on more than 300 square miles of rolling landscape, with the event center itself set at its highest point. It was an impressive facility, and I believe unique in it's dedication and purpose to being as congenial as possible to dogs and dog lovers alike.

Here's the main entrance to the building, hard to miss from the main grounds below.

This poodle topiary stood in welcome at the entrance.

This was the view from one end of the main room toward the partition which encompassed the large grooming area and on the other side, the very ample show ring and seating. There was also another large room for grooming on the other side of the centralized cafeteria.

There were a number of vendors with a variety of goods, from fine jewellery to dog food. Keeping watch in this booth is "Pinta", Diane Troese' lovely bitch "Ch Emprise Silver Lining" (4th place in the very tough 9-12 Years Veteran Bitches class).

On the other side of the partition, things were run pretty much the same as most other dog shows. This is a small sampling of one of the males-only cuts in the Best of Breed competition. Mark McMillan is centred with Am/Can Ch Grandgables The Frat Boy, who went on to garner an Award of Merit (and also happens to be the sire of our two youngest hopefuls ).

The show ring wasn't all about serious competition. This is local handler Cheryl Pike with "Shelamo Flash Forward" from the Lynch's in Smiths Falls, Ontario in the 6-9 month sable Puppy Bitch class. There was a 60's dress competition, the fun garb lightening the mood for the opening classes of the week long show.

Always time for hugs for your best guy ... Jennie Hynes and GrCh Rosmoor Protocol ROMC, in the Best of Breed competition.

Can you ever have too much fun? Susie Beacham and "Ticker", AOM winner "Am Ch Dan Dee One from the Heart".

This boy must have inherited the "fun gene" from his maternal grandsire Ticker! Susie Beacham and her 6 to 9 month old sable class winner, by Am/Can Ch Braeleen Let Freedom Ring, "Wistwin Shalamar Coeur d'Alene" - "Lane". His dam, Wistwin Tickertape, won the Brood Bitch class.

I was fortunate to have the chance to do some photos of Lane and his brother Quinn. These youngsters and their equally handsome brother Sunny were bred by Dianne Hawes (Wistwin). After the more traditional portrait shots were done, the boys just had to unwind!

"Rush" and "Becca"

2011-04-18T06:47:00.009-04:00

At nine and a half weeks, our two youngest show hopefuls (Jolie X Frat Boy) continue to look very promising. They are a pair of look-alikes with nearly identical temperaments as well. The weather just did not cooperate to get the body shots I was hoping for, but at least we were able to dash out in between the blizzard and downpours to get these updates. It's going to be a lot of fun to see how they grow up!

"Rush" - "Anamchara Animal House"

And sister "Becca" - "Anamchara Sorority Life"

At this time, we are offering "Becca" on a co-ownership with a small, proven show home.

Website Updates

2011-04-10T22:03:00.002-04:00

I finally got around to making some much needed updates to my website. Next up, looking at a design "facelift" ... one of these days :).

Pupdates

2011-04-05T22:54:00.008-04:00

We are quite delighted with our Brother (Am/Can Ch GrandGables The Frat Boy) and Jolie (Am/Can Shaydeechase Girl Interrupted) litter of 3 girls and 1 boy. They will be 8 weeks old tomorrow. One larger girl will be going to her new home this weekend, and the smaller girl, pictured here on my website is also looking for her new family. She's such a doll face ... who could resist? :)

We finally got a break in the weather to take some photos of the two puppies that will be staying for now. They are so enjoyable together, it's almost hard to imagine one without the other. Here's the girl, who will be "Anamchara Sorority Life" - "Becca".

Sorry I kind of cut you off at the ears :( ...

Looking for another smidge of peanut butter on Chelsea's finger ...

And here is the boy, "Anamchara Animal House" - "Rush". We think he's a very promising youngster ... time will tell!!

Puppies Growing Up

2011-02-27T19:39:00.004-05:00

The puppies in Jolie's litter all have their eyes open now and are starting to be wobbly explorers. They will be 3 weeks old this coming Wednesday and are finding their voices as well as their legs.

I just love this girl's expression already ...

The next in size, the darker girl.

The larger red girl ...

And the boy ...

... getting in the last word.

Snow Play

2011-02-17T20:57:00.004-05:00

We had a break in the temps last weekend, and it actually was quite sunny and pleasant for a good part of the weekend. Today, we're edging into a major thaw, and the yard doesn't look even this white, and will likely be more of a mud pit by tomorrow ... it's just that time of year. The blue boy, Kane, will be leaving soon for his new home at Cassbar Shelties (co-owned by Michelle Rogowski, myself and Cynthia Charbonneau,Cynchar Shelties) and I know Kendall will miss her brother, but in the meantime, they certainly know how to have fun!

Game on!

A New Family

2011-02-13T11:37:00.003-05:00

Last Wednesday, our beautiful Jolie - Am/Can Ch Shaydeechase Girl Interrupted - presented us with a much anticipated litter by the stunning Am/Can Ch GrandGables The Frat Boy. Pictured at 3 days old, we have 3 lovely ladies and 1 handsome fella. All are doing well, and once again, Jolie is proving to be "mom extraordinaire"!

Group shot ...

The girls ...

Close up of the smaller girl. She looks just like her mom!

More of the girls ...

And the boy ...

Keva's Kids at 7 Weeks

2011-02-02T21:26:00.005-05:00

Bathed, brushed and fluffed, ears up and a minor trim (these are the hairiest puppies!!), we marked the puppies' 7 week birthday with some head shots. The [only] girl is the tri, and I'm calling her "Kendall"; she'll be staying here and I'm still working on a registered name. We'll be watching one or two of the boys over the next couple of weeks in the hopes that at least one will be kept as a show/breeding prospect. We're extremely pleased with the consistent look of these puppies, and their temperaments are the best! This has been one of the easiest litters ever ... a few lucky families are getting some wonderful puppies!

First born puppy, this fellow's a bi blue.

And the other bi blue, puppy #2.

Here is the third boy, a show hopeful if he can manage to not grow too much over the next few weeks.

And the last boy, another blue merle with white and tan, like #3.

Finally, this is "Kendall". I love her feisty personality, her neat little body and her sweet, feminine expression. I'm excited to watch her grow up!

Two New Faces

2011-01-09T22:49:00.003-05:00

We are delighted to welcome into the world two new little girls. Born yesterday, and in the middle of the afternoon, no less, we have two very flashy sable females, out of our guest Shalamar Miss Congeniality (Connie), who is an Am/Can Ch Hill View's Patriot Games ROM (Brodi) daughter and is out of Sharokee Sarasoda,(double grdtr of Ch. Westar's Dynasty and dam of 2010 ASSA Best in Futurity), bred to Am/Can Ch Braeleen Let Freedom Ring (Johnny), who's also a Brodi kid. This is a power packed pedigree, and we have high hopes for these two young ladies. Thank you co-breeder Dianne Hawes (Wistwin) for making this happen and allowing Connie to visit!

T

A La Carte

2011-01-06T21:33:00.003-05:00

We started Keva's pups on lapping from a bowl this week. Most litters really go for the slightly diluted goat's milk, but some are a little more hesitant. These youngsters, now 3 1/2 weeks old, attacked their first "stand alone" meal with gusto, and were all really serious about getting as much into themselves as possible. No time for chit chat at the dinner table, it was all business.

"I can't believe I ate the whole thing ..."

"Here, just hold still a minute ..."

"I said, just hold still ..."

Play time!

Happy Birthday, Cady!!

2011-01-03T09:13:00.003-05:00

Today is my Cady's 12th birthday, and I am so blessed to have her in my life. Outside of some "selective" hearing, and a little more nap time, she is aging at a rate that I can only envy. Still wildly exuberant about anything resembling food, still my protector and sidekick, Cady remains the highlight of my life. She is also featured in the above banner. Happy Birthday, Baby Girl!!

"Ch Laureate Cadence", shortly after I brought her home from Kim and Pete's (Laureate), at 11 weeks old.

Photos taken by Chris Lynch in 2003 after Cady placed a close 2nd place in the Novice Bitch class at the ASSA National in Michigan.

Relaxing ...

One of the few non-show photos I have of Cady and I together ... sure, she doesn't look thrilled, but I love it!

Thank You, 2010!!

2010-12-31T23:01:00.004-05:00

This past year was a pretty fair one, with typical ups and downs, and I think, overall, things have ended quite balanced. I have been able to share some wonderful moments with friends and family, and have a whole other year's worth of memories to hold dear and to fall back on if 2011 doesn't quite deliver. I have been fortunate to be able to show some very nice dogs this year, although didn't have as much success in the whelping box ... balance.

I looked through all of the photos that I blogged this year, and decided that this was my favourite. To me, it represents the efforts of the past, the joy of the present, and the hope of the future. 2011, you have a lot to live up to!

Happy New Year!!

First Christmas

2010-12-26T23:25:00.004-05:00

Our Keva and Kenshe litter turned two weeks old today. We have four and a half pairs of eyes open; the girl is only winking so far :). Now that we can get an idea of expressions, we can see the consistency in their "look" even more clearly. These babies are already getting around like crazy, and a couple are taking turns sneaking out of the box. We're enjoying them immensely!

This is male #1.

And boy #2; I'm pretty sure he's a bi blue.

This is the tri girl. She seems to be warming up to me a bit, and has been the first one to try her baby bark :).

And boy #3 ...

And last but not least, male #4. He's the smallest, and is just a doll!

Puppies at One Week

2010-12-20T20:17:00.003-05:00

This is a bad time of year to try and stay on top of all the things that demand attention. I have been delinquent in posting anything about Keva's new family, and let's not even talk about all the pumped up activity that goes hand in hand with the celebrations of the Christmas season. I love Christmas, really, but if it had wanted to come a little later this year, that would have been fine, too!

We are extremely fortunate to have Keva - "Ch Chelson Satin Image" - here for a second litter. I just recently placed her daughter from her first litter, a lovely tri girl who unfortunately did go "slightly" over size, so this breeding to Am Ch Rosmoor Protocol ROM - "Kenshe" -
bore a multitude of high hopes. Very early last Sunday morning Keva had four blue males (yes, 4!!) and one lone girl, a tri colour. To say that this little lady has all of my attention would not be an overstatement. The boys ... well, yes, the boys seem very nice, but in my eyes, this female is just special. As luck would have it, she has not the slightest interest in returning my affection. In fact, she's very indignant about being picked up and admired, don't even try to cuddle her, and is loud and squirmy about the whole thing. Never mind, I can bribe her into seeing things my way ... eventually :).

I'm pretty sure this boy is a bi blue. I can't see any tan anywhere. He's my favourite little man of the four (and no, his eyes aren't open, it's just the light).

Still 16 days Left of Autumn!

2010-12-05T18:51:00.002-05:00

Okay, for most of us looking outside this weekend, it doesn't look much like fall any more. Winter has arrived, at least for the moment,with enough fierce intensity that we have every reason to believe it just might stay. I had taken these photos over a couple of occasions a few weeks ago. Now seems like a good time to bring them out, as they almost look tropical by comparison to what's outside my window!

Fun Weekend for Oliver!

2010-11-21T19:14:00.002-05:00

A lovely puppy that I placed from our last litter, born almost a full year ago, went to live with a wonderful family who agreed to let "Oliver" be a part-time show dog when he was ready. We took him out last summer, and at his first show, was Best of Winners and Best Puppy in Group. I had other showing commitments at the time, so we let Oliver stay home and just grow up. We decided to enter him at the London Canine dog show in Tillsonburg, but that was his first indoor show, and he didn't know quite what to make of things, although behaved very well nonetheless. I took advantage of the day and shot these photos.

This weekend we entered Oliver at the Kent Kennel Klub shows in Chatham. On Saturday, judge Kristen Francis awarded him Reserve Winners Dog, Best Puppy in Breed, then Best Puppy in Group. Today, Oliver was Best of Winners under judge Mrs. S. Alexander. He's more than halfway to his championship in just 3 outings, and owners Victoria and Debbie Brewster are very pleased with their puppy! I think they gave him the right "start" with the name they chose for him - "Anamchara A Step Ahead".

Oliver is out of our Am/Can Ch Shaydeechase Girl Interrupted (Jolie) and is by Ch Lynphil Mirror Mask. On Saturday, the club sponsored a "Be in the Pink" fund raiser for breast cancer, and the flower I'm wearing was in support of that. There was pink everywhere!

Not Just A Lotta Bull ...

2010-10-19T21:17:00.002-04:00

To finish off my post about the International Plowing Match, here are some photos of the broncs and bulls. Yeeehaw!!

Horsing Around at the Plowing Match

2010-10-10T21:25:00.004-04:00

The Dodge Rodeo made an appearance at the International Plowing Match as well, a welcomed surprise as I had missed it earlier this year in Exeter. I was late arriving and missed some of the timed events but did catch the barrel racing and team roping (or was it heading and heeling? now I'm not sure ...), plus the bronc and bull riding, which I'll post separately.

International Plowing Match

2010-10-08T21:42:00.002-04:00

Two weeks ago, the 98th annual International Plowing Match was held on the grounds of the St. Thomas, Ontario airport. By all accounts, it was a stupendous event, with more than 80,000 visitors and spread over 1000 acres. The Plowing Match resembles a huge county fair, but minus many of the commercial and carnival-type vendors, rides and displays. There were hundreds of booths and tents hosting an expansive variety of retail and wholesale wares, as well as crafts, of course food and even religion. Most of the vendors were definitely geared toward the farming industry and country living in general, and frankly it was refreshing and reassuring to see that our rural roots are indeed thriving, at least at the Plowing Match!

Plowing matches have been part of our agricultural history in Ontario for well over a century. History records that in 1846 when the first provincial exhibition was held in the city of Toronto, a special feature of the event was a plowing match. These matches not only gave farmers an opportunity to display their skill in the handling of a walking plow, but to show off their fine teams of horses, mostly Percherons and Belgians, many of which were imported or were from imported stock. Today's plowing match still highlights the skill of the single-row plow, plus a host of other competitions, activities and demonstrations.

The parking for the plowing match was very far from the actual activity, but there were volunteers helping us out. Once leaving the vehicle, we were directed to walk up to the road, where tractors pulling different types of wagons were waiting, like a nonstop assembly line. Yes, it did feel a little like cattle going to market!

The grounds of the match seemed to go on forever. Getting closer in the shuttle wagon, it was more and more difficult to imagine getting around and seeing everything in just one afternoon.

Once you made it through the gate, you could pick up a map and plan the sights and exhibitions that you wanted to see first. I just started walking ... there was so much to see!

One of the most amazing and hilarious displays was the tractor square dance. There were 8 couples on identical tractors, all "dancing" to the square dance caller. The funniest thing was that although there were distinct couples, each "female" partner was a man, complete with dresses with padded tops and long hair wigs. They put on quite the show!

There was also a rodeo at the plowing match, which I hope to upload in the next few days.

... In the Morning ... Part 3

2010-10-01T21:51:00.006-04:00

On the Saturday of my visit, we met Linda Nicholas (Solange Shelties)at a fabulous restaurant/bakery/kitchen supply-and-more place called "A Southern Season" in Chapel Hill. We had a wonderful lunch and then did some browsing, aisle upon aisle of every sort of kitchen and cooking accessory, teas and coffees. I bought a Santoku knife (green ceramic!) and a combination garlic slicer/chopper ... oh sure, I can get those items up here, but now I have some terrific souvenirs!

After lunch we went back to Linda's for tea and to visit her lovely shelties. I think Linda must have three hummingbird feeders (maybe more) and I was able to get some fairly decent photos (certainly not all of the same bird!). This one butterfly was hanging around a lot, putting on quite the performance. I don't know what kind it is, but it put on a very impressive show!

... than to be in Carolina ... Part 2

2010-09-23T23:01:00.003-04:00

After our visit to Old Salem, we set out for the Blue Ridge Parkway, which stretches almost 500 miles along the crest of the Blue Ridge mountains. Starting in North Carolina and continuing up through Virginia, it encompasses some of the oldest settlements of both pre-historic and early European settlements. There are many mileposts along the way, which designate look outs, hiking and biking trails, historical landmarks and even a few restaurants and a lodge. Our goal was to get as high up and to see as much as we could in the few hours we would have before dusk. Dianne was a great tour guide!

There are a number of old European settlements that have been preserved, and the Brinegar homestead is just one of them. Occupied for over 60 years, this 19th-century log cabin illustrates the isolated existence of mountain residents.

On our way back down the mountain to head home, we stopped briefly at one of the campgrounds. Before we even got out of the van, I spied a young fawn just beyond the clearing.

We had just finished our walkabout and were turning to leave, when we saw a doe we could only presume was the mother. It was a great finish to wonderful excursion!

Nothin' Could be Finer ... Part 1

2010-09-18T21:09:00.007-04:00

The song is so true ... North Carolina in the morning is just pure soul food, especially when the summer's sun has started to wane above the 49th parallel. I spent 4 lovely days last week visiting my very good friend Dianne Hawes (Wistwin Shelties) near Raleigh, and it was wonderful to revisit summer weather again. Upon my arrival on Thursday, Dianne gave me an early Christmas present - a beautifully handpainted dish of my heart girl, Cady (Ch Laureate Cadence". It's an exquisite replica, and is one of the most thoughtful gifts I have ever received.

My second day there, we planned a drive to the Blue Ridge mountains, approximately 2 1/2 hours away, and decided to take a side trip to Old Salem on our way. It was an absolutely delightful step back in time, carefully preserved and recreated.

From the tourist information, "Salem was founded in 1766 by the Moravians – a Protestant group of people that began in what is now known as the Czech Republic. The Moravians were missionaries who established an earlier settlement in Bethlehem, PA before beginning "Wachovia" in the North Carolina backcountry in 1753. Old Salem Museums & Gardens is a unique community of original museum buildings, authentic craftsmen practicing their trade, fascinating collections of rare antiques, and one-of-a-kind retail shopping opportunities. The stories and activities experienced by visitors in the museums convey a much larger aspect of early America than just the Moravians who settled in Salem, NC. The experiences are a reflection of the evolving economy and diversity of lifestyles that made up the early South." Local citizens dress in the garb of the day and work in the shops and gardens. It is a town steeped in history and arrested in time, a small oasis in the midst of the modern world.

From where we parked, this grand and original building gave an idea of the exquisite architecture in the village.

There are many artifacts on display as well as fully functioning implements or machines true to the late 1700's. It made perfect sense that an industrial-size hand water pump would be available within easy reach of the oven used for baking bricks!

Making our way up to the main street, you couldn't help but admire the beautiful stone work at the base of this building.

Although there is a guided tour with an admission price to many of the buildings, there are a number of shops that charge nothing, but have an amazing selection of wares on display and to buy. Ownership of the buildings and land is currently divided among Old Salem, Inc., Wachovia Historical Society, Salem Academy and College, and Moravian representatives. Many of the homes in the town are also privately owned, with the facades blending in with the rest of the village. One of the first businesses we entered was the bakery (no surprise! :)). It was heavenly!

The plant boxes on the fences or windows held some species that I didn't recognize, including this kind of berry-flower plant. And I don't think I had ever seen a fig growing on a fig bush before.

We also visited a hat maker's shop, where the hats were mostly for display, but many other items were for sale.

There were so many shops and buildings just on the main street alone, that we could have easily spent the day there. But we finished our stroll, took a few last looks, and then headed to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Part 2 of my blog for this delightful trip!

Little Falls

2010-08-23T21:25:00.004-04:00

The weather this past Sunday was quite unsettled ... was it going to be rain or sun? The skies couldn't decide, so rather than head for the beach and possibly get rained out, I decided to visit St. Mary's, a small, historic and delightful town about 1/2 hour away. St. Mary's is known for being home to the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame, boasts of Timothy Eaton's first retail store, and is the burial place of Arthur Meighen, Canada's 9th Prime Minister. In the park that marks it's founding, there is an interesting set of falls fed by the Thames River, and lent the town it's nickname, "Little Falls". Although perhaps not large by Niagara standards, it still moves along at an imposing speed with plenty of froth and spray, and of course, water fowl.

Contemplating ...

Takeoff!

Mid-Week Holiday

2010-08-12T20:55:00.008-04:00

I've been on vacation part of last week and all of this one, and didn't have anything in particular planned for the most part other than catching up on yard work and trying to head to the beach, maybe even get in some fishing. But the highlight was all set up sometime ago, an overnight trip to Toronto for some shopping with Kim and then John Mayer at the Molson Amphitheatre in the evening. In between the stores and the concert, we were treated to a promotional meet and greet at our hotel, the Fairmont Royal York, with an a cappella group "Naturally 7", who have been opening for Michael Buble and would be doing so that same evening at the Air Canada Centre. With just enough time for a quick bite, we went to this very polished Japanese restaurant, "Ki", for a wonderful sushi meal, easily the best I've ever had! Then on to the concert for Kim and I, while Pete headed back to the hotel. Pete had arranged an upgrade to a suite with an adjoining separate room, and it was positively luxurious, definitely the topper to a marvelous mini-holiday!

Exiting the train station and on my way to cross the street to the Royal York ... I heard this voice, amazingly over all the street noise, and there was Kim hanging out the window!

Just inside the entrance, Kim and Pete's suite to the right, my adjoining room to the left.

On our way out on the town!

A quick shot of my trip's souvenirs ...

The Amphitheatre is a partly covered, acoustically-engineered dome-type structure, with the main stage being down in the "bowl" and the seats fanning up and out from there, including thousands of "seats" available on the expansive lawn. It's down at the shore of Lake Ontario, and last night was just perfect for an outdoor event. Not being a Mayer expert, but certainly an admirer, I gained a whole new perspective of him as a performer, just as much for his guitar skills as his obvious appreciation of his fans. He's an engaging and talented artist, and pretty darn cute, too! It was a stellar performance and a sensational evening.

A You Tube video of "Naturally 7" opening for Michael Buble that same night, just down the road from the Amphitheatre.

And a fan's posting of one of John Mayer's numbers from last night ...

Happy Birthday, Chelsea!

2010-08-04T20:36:00.004-04:00

My daughter's birthday (won't say which number :)) was this past weekend. On Saturday, we had family over for what has become our tradition, an ice cream cake from Dairy Queen. Seems to really hit the spot every year for the only mid-summer birthday! At the guest of honour's request, we featured a Batman theme.

Naturally, Rustle had to help supervise blowing out the candles.

The next day we headed to the Build A Bear for the second part of our celebration. So many choices, not just bears, but dogs, horses and cats in a variety of colours and styles.

Chels with her choice, an adorable but pretty much flat and two dimensional fuzzy bear.

Next step, transforming this bear into a more huggable state. Frankly, it looked more like he was getting a medical procedure ...

After the stuffing, comes the fluffing and a bit of brushing out ...

All ready to get dressed ... so many choices ...

New clothes picked out, now to try them on.

And into the box, ready to go home.

From the Inside - Part 2

2010-07-20T20:39:00.004-04:00

Rounding out the show, these are mainly from the Working and Non-sporting groups, although I did sneak in a few others.

A stunning female Boxer waiting to be examined.

And an equally lovely Doberman bitch ...

A Great Dane ...

An Irish Setter ...

The multiple Working Group winner, Giant Schnauzer CH Skansen's Sir August Brigs.

The easily recognizable St. Bernard ...

And the Neapolitan Mastiff ...

Standard Poodle Ch Jaset's Satisfaction, who has multiple all breed Best in Show credits, made an impressive run as the Non-Sporting group winner.

But it was the Number One rated dog in the U.S., Smooth Fox Terrier GCh Ch J'Cobe Kemosabe Vigilante Justice - "Dodger" - who took top prize today.

From the Inside ... Part 1

2010-07-15T20:24:00.004-04:00

This group of photos are generally in alphabetic order by breed within the Herding group, Group 7. Shelties are a part of this group, but I did not capture the Sheltie Best of Breed today, I just couldn't get a good shot, but I think I did grab some interesting moments of some of the other competitors.

The Bearded Collie was awarded the top prize in the Herding Group, allowing him to move on to Best in Show.

This next set represents the Toy Group. They may be smaller in stature than a lot of the other dogs, but they command the ring just as decisively as any other dog there!

And of course I couldn't overlook the Chihuahua ... what a little show dog this fellow was!!

On the Outside Looking In

2010-07-12T22:24:00.003-04:00

I took Keva (Ch Chelson Satin Image) to Monroe, Michigan this past weekend for the Ann Arbor Kennel Club shows. This is a huge dog show, exceeding 1700 entries, including 26 separate supported entries (or "boosters" for specific individual breeds), 16 rings and 35 judges. While some of the breeds were fortunate enough to be judged in the air conditioned building, most were outside. By all accounts, it was another steamy weekend, but thankfully there was enough breeze to make it bearable, and the free movie-style popcorn and lemonade didn't hurt!

There was lots of time on Saturday after the shelties were judged to enjoy the bulk of the show, and I took a number of candid photos outside of the show ring of dogs who had just been judged or were waiting their turn.

This little bulldog puppy was sporting the latest in "keeping cool" wear, a cooling jacket, very lightweight with a cool interior but dry exterior. Next Top Model, for sure!

There were plenty of wading pools and fresh running water set up for drinking or for cooling off. This German Shorthair Pointer puppy knew exactly how to use his pool!

Remember that free popcorn? Doesn't that mean for Mastiff puppies, too?

Two youngsters making new friends ...

A pair of Scotties, looking like they are old friends ...

Inside the air conditioned building, a group of Maltese get ready for the ring.

This dachshund doesn't appear to be feeling the heat too badly.

And this doxie is really travelling in style.

A well deserved rest back at the motel for Keva, who earlier that day took her first American points!

I'm still working on Part 2, mostly photos of dogs inside the ring. It was a great day, and the competition was inspiring.

First Show, First Points!

2010-07-08T21:29:00.003-04:00

One of Jolie's puppies (Am/Can Ch Shaydeechase Girl Interrupted)from her winter litter by Ch Lynphil Mirror Mask was lucky enough to find his way into the heart and home of a fabulous young lady, Victoria Brewster and her mom Debbie. They were extremely agreeable about letting me show "Oliver", and his debut was just last week, Friday and Saturday in Sarnia, Ontario. Although Friday was a little unsteady, he did really well for his first time in a totally strange situation, and at the tender age of just 6 1/2 months. By the next day, he was starting to figure things out, and we were all absolutely delighted when Oliver took Winners Dog, then Best in Winners and on to Best Puppy in Group for his very first points, at his very first show. "Anamchara A Step Ahead", aptly named by Victoria, is off and running!

Left to right, judge Robert Whitney, myself, Victoria and Deb, and of course Oliver

Canada Day

2010-07-02T09:49:00.002-04:00

Just a few candid shots of the Canada Day festivities downtown ... it was a beautiful day, and the celebrations offered a variety of tributes to our wonderful country.

Yard Work (and Play)

2010-06-28T21:53:00.003-04:00

I enjoy working outside ... a lot. I'm not talking about ditch-digging, rivers of sweat type of work. I just like to be outdoors and puttering, any excuse to just not be inside. It doesn't have to be perfect weather, or a particularly big job, or even a job with a plan. It's simply good therapy for the soul, messing around in the dirt, and the gratification that only comes with any kind of physical labour. Saturday was a good day to be outside, so while I was working away in the front, the dogs were ... well ... not working in the back.

Mother and daughter, playing bitey-face ... Keva (the mom) is the blue girl, and her daughter Meena is 11 months old.

Good thing they were keeping things quiet ... Rustle the fun police was watching!

Deer Hunter

2010-06-08T22:00:00.002-04:00

Finally, after many, many evenings last year visiting the bog in hopes of catching sight of one of the many deer that I know live there, I found my "quarry" at last. Luckily this doe was quite cooperative, although I certainly wasn't close and obviously no threat, forced to stick to the boardwalk path, while she was on higher ground slightly above the mucky swamp. With any luck, I'll go back in a few months and find some of her juvenile cousins!

Jon & Kate "Gosling" Plus 8, Plus 3

2010-05-31T22:21:00.006-04:00

When Chelsea and I were out for ice cream on Saturday, we spied two separate goose families in the park by the Dairy Queen. One family had only one, older gosling. The other we dubbed "Kate and Jon plus 8", and those youngsters were maybe a week junior to the "singleton". Although sharing the same pond, the same grazing grounds, the separation between the two families was very distinct. They were fun to watch, and just so adorable. Even though the babies were curious about us, their parents let them (and us) know there was to be no close contact of any sort. We were happy to finish our cones and just watch.

Monday Musing

2010-05-17T21:19:00.003-04:00

"I wish I was a glow worm, a glow worm's never glum. Cuz how can you be grumpy when the sun shines out your bum!"

Doing the Happy Dance!

2010-05-09T21:41:00.003-04:00

Kim sent me this photo last night, taken by Pete right after being awarded Winners Bitch at the same show as posted below. Lots of reasons to be dancing in the aisles ... even Keva looks like she knows we did well!

Thanks for the photo, guys!

Shining in Saskatoon!

2010-05-06T20:52:00.003-04:00

Our national breed show was held last week in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. The city's, and the show's, motto was "Saskatoon Shines". Well, maybe in June or July, but in the last days of April, the only shining was the silver being awarded at the dog show. The weather was cold, rainy and windy, and very inhospitable. Luckily the spirit of the show, and any native Saskatooners(?) that I came in contact with, did shine indeed, and were lovely, warm people.

My friend Cynthia Charbonneau (Cynchar Shelties), asked if I would show her lovely blue bitch "Keva", who I had leased for a litter last year (see her daughter "Meena" a few posts down) and I was more than happy to do so. After winning our very competitive Open Blue bitch class, Keva was then awarded Winners Bitch, and then the most exciting moment the next day when judge Judy Kelsey chose us for Best of Winners. Cynthia handily finished Keva's Canadian championship over the 3 day weekend, taking a Group 1st in style. It was wonderful to share the fun with my friend, and I'm thankful that I could help out.

There were some truly lovely dogs competing, and the overall feel of the show was so positive and uplifting ... it was just plain fun! One of the Awards of Merit was handed to good friends Kim and Pete for their darling, showy sable girl "Ch Laureate Jivara". "Cocoa" is such a crowd pleaser, and simply a joy to watch.

Here's the photo of Keva's terrific win. Judge Judy Kelsey is far left, then me, Cynthia, and Cathy Reid, president of the national club. And of course, the star front and centre, new Canadian Champion Chelson Satin Image!!

Spring Buds

2010-04-27T21:10:00.002-04:00

The plant life is still pretty sleepy around here. I wonder just how much impact the less-than-normal snow plus our dry spring has had on the slow appearance of local flora. I took a few photos on the weekend of some of the almost timidly awakening plant life.

Lilac buds from the large bush in the back ... so fragrant when mature ...

The crabapple tree, which year after year yields just bitter fruit, but that doesn't stop the dogs from sampling, just as reliably.

One of the earliest flowering perennials, I think it's a lung wort.

I can't stay on top of the relentless buds from these pretty yellow flowers all over my lawn. I waffle between wanting to obliterate them and embracing them, their numbers seem so overpowering at times. Thankfully, they stick around only a relatively short period.

On Friday, I brought home a lovely miniature rose bush that my boss had given me. It was over-run with flowers in all stages, tiny little green budlings to fully open blooms. You can only see a couple in this picture.

While I was working in the yard on Sunday, I took it outside to get some direct sun; the temps are still too risky to plant it. I left it in a protected corner on the bench that runs the border of the deck. A few of the dogs were out, and minding their own business with a rope or some other toy.

Or so I thought ...

I went out a bit later, didn't see the potted rose bush where I had left it, but did see some dirt scattered. I had thought "somebody" must have knocked it over. I only wish ...

When I picked up my little rose bush, there wasn't a single flower left. Not one solitary bloom. Neat as can be, each flower had been sharply cropped from it's stem. Each and every one. I could only stand there with the pot in my hands, and looking around for who could have done such a thing. It didn't take long before I spied the two buds who looked the guiltiest. And they didn't say a word in their defence.

Don't Worry, Be Happ(ier) (Part II)

2010-04-14T20:51:00.003-04:00

The resort we stayed at was Breezes in Runaway Bay, quite the hedonistic experience, and it didn't take long to discover that "all inclusive" really means just that. It was complete, marvelous indulgence.

With the relatively steady tropical climate that Runaway Bay enjoys, there are no doors or windows on any of the buildings, and you can hardly call them that. Two of the restaurants are completely in the open with just a canopy of palm trees overhead. At night, the affect is quite stunning.

Chels in the lobby.

Trying out the bed ...

The view from our balcony.

The terrace is where the buffet meals were served - breakfast, lunch, dinner - and where the nightly entertainment took place. Beautiful view of the ocean ...

Chels in front of the Japanese restaurant, or "Black-anese", as the Jamaican chefs called it :). It was a lot of fun, and they were pretty good with those knives.

The beach was endlessly exquisite, perfect for burying your toes in, or strolling, or just watching the waves, and dreaming ...

One view of this particular pool. There were two main ones, and the other pool had a slight waterfall to divide the depths.

Chels ... self-portrait.

Yah mon ...

Our visit was over Easter weekend, widely and wildly celebrated in Jamaica. I have to think this cute bunny was done purely for the benefit of the tourists.

"Carnival" is an annual celebration normally held for a week around Easter, and includes parades, themed costume competitions, and lots of music, food and drink. The entertainment folks at the resort recruited some of the guests and formed three "teams" for our own Carnival celebration. It was a blast!!

A friend snapped this ... we'll be back soon!

Don't Worry, Be Happy (Part I)

2010-04-09T20:50:00.008-04:00

My daughter Chelsea and I spent a fabulous long Easter weekend in Jamaica. It was far too short a trip, we were home before we knew it, but at the time, many things considered, it sounded about right. If we had the slightest inkling that we would both fall head over heels in love with this incredible Caribbean island, we would have gone for much longer. Much, much longer :). We are planning a lengthier return visit later this year.

I've travelled quite a bit in Canada and the U.S., but this was my first tropical venture. This was Chelsea's first trip really anywhere, first plane ride, so we were discovering the Caribbean together. We were instantly charmed by the jagged mountain face contrasting the lush tropical greenery, the warm and genuine people, and of course the soft-as-silk beaches and delightful cuisine. We brought back some jerk fixin's and so far agree that most everything tastes better jerked!

Inside the Montego Bay airport, there is a reception area for most of the resort chains where you check in and wait for a ride. It was wonderful just to be there, after a long wait in the Toronto airport for the delayed flight and no real sleep, and it was a big relief to see how organized they were for tourists.

This really neat bar right outside the airport does a booming business for thirsty travellers and regulars alike. Bob Marley is indeed King, and his music was the first we heard upon landing, continued through our stay, and was the last we heard in the airport when we left. We never tired of it.

We had a speedy and occasionally hairy hour and a half drive from the Montego Bay airport to Runaway Bay. We were the only two passengers in the "shuttle", and learned that Jamaican drivers use their horns a lot, often in place of brakes. Although our driver did his best to provide some commentary along the way, we just couldn't grasp the Patois nuances, a language unique to this island. Most of the staff at the resort spoke English as well as the native dialects. We saw a number of stray, generic houndish-looking dogs and wild goats who apparently are plentiful and desirable, both for their grazing skills as much as their contribution to the cuisine. We didn't ask a lot of questions about that. I did a bit of research at home, and apparently there are no dogs or cats allowed into Jamaica at all that do not come from another "rabies free" country, such as the U.K.. There is a Jamaica Kennel Club that registers both purebred and cross bred dogs, and they do hold conformation and obedience shows. The breeders that I found online seem to have multiple small breeds (Poms, Papillons,Chihuahuas), and offer both purebreds and crosses for sale or trade.

The Spanish were the first conquerors of this island under Christopher Colombus and ruled for approximately 150 years, after totally erasing the indigent Arawaks, who had no defence for the diseases that the Spanish brought with them, as well as the heavy toll of slavery. The British overtook the Spanish in mid 1600's, beginning a 300 year rule centralized around importing Africans for slave labour on the huge sugar plantations. Even today, the Spanish architectural influence is everywhere, while the British way of driving on the "wrong" side and right side steering wheels are just two examples of their enduring imprint. Many of the houses and buildings were in this state of not-quite-finished, but had been left this way for years. In a country where the climate is relatively steady and friendly year round, I suppose shelter as we know it here is not a vital necessity. Contrasted with villa type properties that were charming and rustic, as well as shop fronts that at this time of day were almost deserted, our drive to the resort was fascinating.

(I should mention that the photos of our trip on this post and the next part are ones that I took with my own camera and ones that Chels took on her Canon Sure Shot. She got some great pics!)

Rainy Day Reminiscing

2010-03-14T11:43:00.004-04:00

Windy, rainy weekend ... seemed like it would be time well spent getting together what I need for my income tax return. Luckily, I came across some old photos instead :). This sorrel Quarter Horse gelding, Leo Mano, was my first "serious" horse, and we did everything together. I got him when he was about 7 years old, I think, and I was in my early twenties. He was a direct grandson of the famous "Leo", and had been used at stud himself before he became available as a riding horse. I think he did his ancestor proud. Leo had a fabulous disposition, never refused what I asked of him, and was competitive enough on the horse show circuit to be a lot of fun; I continued to show for many years. He certainly inherited his speed from his famous grandfather, and left many challengers watching him from behind. Because he had been left as a stud for so long, Leo had all the musculature normally associated with stallions, the heavy neck, fore and hindquarters, but was always a gentleman. I owned a number of horses after we parted ways, but I never had another horse that meant as much to me. He was a great friend, and a great horse.

Although primarily ridden and shown under Western tack, Leo could extend his gaits and moved just as well going English.

The branded "4" on his shoulder was still common practice on the bigger ranches in states like Texas.

Meena, Growing Up

2010-03-09T21:33:00.003-05:00

I took my 7 month old hopeful - "Anamchara Aminata" - to her first show this past weekend, a Sheltie Specialty just north of Toronto. I did not expect anything more than to have a good time, and to make Meena's first show experience a really good one. I think it was a success, we both had a lot of fun, and it's always great to see fellow breeders and admire their dogs. I will now likely wait until she grows up a little more before taking her out again. I believe she will be well worth waiting for!

More [G]Nash

2010-03-03T21:31:00.005-05:00

For different reasons, I hadn't been able to get out much lately to do any shooting, and of course Sunday came along and was picture perfect, the moon and stars were all aligned, but **THE** hockey game was starting at 3:00, so I didn't want to stray too far. The dogs were feeling the benefits of such a lovely day, too, and it didn't take very long before they forgot about me and the big black thing sticking out from my face and turned to some serious fun. Dogs being dogs, sometimes the most fun comes from simple things, like chewing on a stick, or on a plastic table leg, or a little game of tooth-to-tooth combat.

Here's Rustle gnashing away on a stick.

And Nash doing the same on an upturned piece of deck furniture ...

He stopped long enough that I could get this prettier photo of him.

Rustle giving Meena the evil eye ...

... and gnashing it up with his two best buds.

Taking a break inside, Meena and Nash continue their pretend fighting games ...

Rustle ... all this gnashing fun has made me sleepy ... time for a break.

New Man in the House

2010-02-21T19:07:00.003-05:00

This is "Nash", the puppy we're keeping from our litter born early December. He's our newest hopeful, and is the most darling puppy to live with; we think he's quite the cutie! The head-only picture was taken last weekend, and we did the body shots on Saturday. Nash was a very wriggly fellow, and we never did get just one good photo. Chelsea is my right-hand everything, and we've been doing photos together for a long time. It has not been the easiest dog/puppy-related thing that we do. My instructions from the "taking" side of the camera are, apparently, not always clear ("My left, not your left ...!!") and can sometimes result in very animated differences of opinion. We decided to try things another way, and agreed that it worked out really well. We didn't get the exact pictures that I was aiming for, but it was a very acceptable attempt with Chelsea behind the camera and me positioning the puppy. And I have to remind myself from time to time, this blog is supposed to be FUN, and not necessarily perfect; in fact, imperfections are something we can all identify with, and are part of what make us interesting and different. I'm pleased that Chels has discovered a fun side to the picture taking, and I'm glad for the chance to share another interest with my daughter ... as long as I don't take it too seriously :)

Day at the Beach

2010-02-18T20:37:00.004-05:00

We are really fortunate to be living within a couple of hours of three of the five Great Lakes. One favourite spot on Lake Erie is Port Stanley, which boasted "in the day" a famous night club, The Stork Club, and a booming fishing industry. The Stork Club was destroyed by fire in early 1979, and the fishing boats are nearly extinct. But the beach is still there, and is a thriving attraction, not only during the summer months, but as I discovered, even year round.

This view is just one portion of a huge oil container of some sort, I don't know the right word for it, but the fence in front is a good 10 or 12 feet high, and the trees to the right look dwarfed. Some of the other structures are just black and ugly, but the two that are on the beach have this much more attractive art work.

Continuing to the right of the oil storage tank, in a line directly toward the lake, is a break wall that extends at least 100 feet past the shore. In the past, it was a favourite stroll, when the weather allowed, but despite posted warnings and various safeguards, a few accidental drownings and near-drownings did occur, and so now the wall is totally off limits.

This couple is not actually on the break wall, but on the snow and ice that is banked there.

The shore line is totally obstructed by the mounds of snow and ice. There were still a number of people who were on the beach, or more likely standing on the iced-over lake, and some intrepid younger souls still attempted to build castles, of a sort. The jagged ice and frozen snow were quite unforgiving, and no one stayed too long at it.

It was a very pleasant surprise to find that the beachfront restaurant and Port Stanley landmark, "Mackie's", was open even in the off season. Mackie's orangeade is practically world famous, well, at least to those of in this part of the world!

Merry Christmas! (???)

2010-01-30T21:28:00.002-05:00

Some time before Christmas, I had ordered a special gift for Chelsea. I took one of her favourite photos of her and Rustle, and ordered a fleece throw from Black's with the photo screened onto it. I've never done this before, but hoped it would turn out and that it would arrive for Christmas, as promised. Well, it didn't get here until just a couple of weeks ago! Such a disappointment, and to say that wishing my daughter a Merry Christmas with her "special" gift almost a month late was anticlimatic, to say the least. I'm so glad it was VERY well received, and Chels really loves it ... I think it meets Rustle's approval, too!

Here's the original photo ...

And here is the blanket, thrown over the love seat ...

Rustle isn't sure what to think ...

I love Chelsea's new look!

Bath Day

2010-01-20T20:25:00.003-05:00

We gave the puppies their first baths on the weekend. Puppies are kind of unpredictable as to how they're going to react when "under the suds" for the first time. Some puppies try to scramble out with all their might, some are just frozen in place, not daring to move, and some just take it all in stride after the initial shock of having warm water gently hosed over them. Often the actual bathing is not as traumatic as the drying. We have a really good system; I bath and Chelsea dries. If it's not outdoor weather, then she parks in the kitchen with the hair dryer, on low of course, and towel dries first then uses the blower to finish the job. Sheltie puppies can be very dramatic, and some do protest loudly, but Chels turns up the TV and before you know it, the job is done, the puppy is back with it's litter mates, and it's on to the next one.

Of course no sooner do four clean feet hit the floor, and they're off and running again, like nothing ever happened.

After all that play, naturally they've worked up an appetite.

All right, a warm bath, a little play time, then a full tummy ... bet you know what comes next! :)

Belated Birthday Wishes!

2010-01-17T16:37:00.004-05:00

Since I'm still playing catch up, I have to wish my most special girl a Happy 11th Birthday!! My Cady (Ch Laureate Cadence) turned 11 years old two weeks ago today, and I still can't believe how quickly the time has gone! She's still such a puppy in so many ways; she still loves to show, and has more energy than most dogs half her age. She was born to steal my heart, and she knows it.

Thank you Kim, for my Cady and for your wonderful friendship over the last 11 years!

A Late Start to the New Year

2010-01-13T21:34:00.004-05:00

This doesn't feel very much like it should be my first blog of the New Year ... January is almost half over! I have some catching up to do, and only posted a few photos here to get going again and up to date. Besides just the seasonal hustle of Christmas, my computer was victimized by a serious virus, requiring three house calls and about two weeks of down time, so that definitely hindered any computer activity. All is well now, and I hope to make up for lost time :).

Here is a group photo of the pups at 3 weeks. The female is in the middle. They will be 5 weeks old this Friday and I hope to get new photos done on the weekend.

Rustle ringing in the New Year ...

After a lovely New Year's Eve dinner out, thanks to my daughter, she went her way to a house party and I added some sensible clothes and went to the park downtown which hosted the "official" London party. It was fun, but got cold fast. The skaters didn't seem to notice.

I hope I'm not jinxing myself. Not *too* much snow, please!

'Twas the Night Before ...

2009-12-24T14:08:00.003-05:00

... well, you know the rest! And even though we don't have any mice "stirring", our puppies are becoming more active all the time, even starting to interact with each other. I expect eyes will start to open any day now, as Christmas Day is their two week birthday. I doubt they have sugarplums dancing in their heads, but they are certainly content little babies.

We've decorated the house, dressed the tree (real, of course :)), gifts are wrapped and bowed, and the table is festive and ready for Santa. I never get tired of Christmas morning!

Puppies Have Arrived!

2009-12-14T21:50:00.005-05:00

We're extremely pleased to announce the arrival of our latest litter. We have 4 males and 1 female (the one with the most white in these photos). Quite the range in size at birth, from 5.2 oz to 9.2, but all are doing wonderfully, and Jolie (Am/Can Ch Shaydeechase Girl Interrupted) is an outstanding mother. Sire is the handsome Ch Lynphil Mirror Mask.

A little camera shy ...

It's very tiring trying to sleep during your first photo shoot ...

Starting to Look a Lot Like ...

2009-12-07T22:16:00.003-05:00

I never do my Christmas lights the same way twice, so it's a bit of a Cracker Jack box every year. I had taken a stab at it a week ago, but found some excuse to put off finishing. This past Sunday was bright, sunny, and not a blizzard, which is what we are usually battling to hang our lights. I got home in good time from a terrific dog show weekend with my very good friend Kim (Laureate) and was in a festive frame of mind, so even though I was going solo, and am not the best on a ladder, decided I really had to take advantage and finish the job. Unfortunately, it was not a task that would be accomplished in that bright, uplifting sunshine. I ended up crawling around in the dark (mind you, it was only 5:30!!) trying to find extension cords whose plugs were compatible. It should have been easy, but apparently not all plugs are made the same. Go figure.

The end result, although satisfactory, is really anti-climatic without that first gentle layer of snow (emphasis on "gentle"), which nicely softens the entire affect and makes the whole thing Christmas-y instead of just cold winter lighting. But from most angles, the lights didn't look half bad.

Rain Delay

2009-11-30T22:51:00.006-05:00

On Sunday I had popped my 4 month old show hopeful "Meena" into the van with my camera gear and clothes for the weather to explore another large conservation area, just down at the end of the major thoroughfare one street over. It was darkening as the afternoon grew late, but I had high hopes the rain might hold off for us, just for maybe an hour. It didn't. This was the view looking into the entrance to the park when we arrived.

Same view, after the wipers had made a pass.

We did get brave enough to see if it really was raining as hard as it looked. It was.

That was all right, I had wanted to get a start on my dinner anyway, as it was something I came up with on the fly and a little more exotic than my usual fare. I had acquired some moose sausage a week or so ago, and although I've had it before, it has been awhile and I forget how I had cooked it. I settled on a kind of moose ragout, sausages braised in chopped tomatoes and root vegetables with mushrooms on wild brown rice. It ended up looking very rustic, and smelled wonderful! I'm glad there was plenty for leftovers :).

Fall Frisbee

2009-11-24T20:10:00.004-05:00

Not only are the golf courses still busy, but this unseasonably long and temperate autumn has extended even the frisbee season. Ordinarily by this time of year the neighbourhood streets and school parking lots would be ringing with the sound of pucks or balls being slapped by hockey sticks. Perhaps this isn't beach weather, but definitely still mild enough for a beach-type sport!

Gull Spotting

2009-11-19T20:00:00.004-05:00

As pleased as I was to find some surprises at the pond, I still was hoping to track down some Canada geese, in flight or landing in that majestic formation. I headed to a spot I felt sure would yield all kinds of goosey photo ops ... surely I wouldn't end the day without at least one fabulous shot of my quarry?

Of course I was doomed to not see a single Canada goose all day. I did find a large flock of gulls that I had not expected at all, and ducks that I knew and a few I didn't. I was caught by the striking difference in venues, leaving the pond that was all soft and puffy and muted, coming to this river bank, stoney and harsh, even the birds were edgier and steely. A no less enjoyable place to be, very different from where I had just come, and again, unfolding some unexpected treasure.

Hunter or Hunted?

2009-11-16T21:54:00.005-05:00

Geese and ducks of all sorts are pretty much peaking right now in their migration activity. At any given time, you can first hear the trumpeting up above, then the characteristic V-shaped body passes overhead, sometimes only a few geese, sometimes so many that you can't count, and then they're gone. I've been trying to capture that moment of take off, or at least a close enough shot of them in flight, but I don't seem to be in the right place at the right time. I'm going to keep trying, at least until it snows. They may be elusive, and sure, they can fly, but I'm stubborn :).

I came across a man-made pond this weekend, behind a school and right in the middle of a suburb. I had seen geese in that general area before, but didn't realize the size of this pond. It was surprisingly big, down in a crater-type depression, and well hidden on 3 sides with weeds and grasses. Although it was nippy and breezier than it has been, I was dressed for it, and ready to wait as long as I had to. I took the few ducks paddling around as a good omen. So I waited. And I waited. I took photos rather aimlessly, deleting most on the spot, then realized my surroundings were really far more interesting that I had first thought. In fact, the longer I was there, and the colder I got, the more downright fascinating it was. By the time a handful of geese finally did make their arrival, I was quite happily wrapped up in my little "macro world".

These two ducks persisted in remaining close enough and long enough that I did oblige and took a couple of pictures anyway. I didn't want to hurt their feelings by letting on it was really the geese I was hunting ... they seemed satisfied after a few shots, and swam away.

While I was busy entertaining myself, I got the feeling, fleeting at first, then stronger, that I was being watched, and watched very carefully. After looking around a little more closely, this is what I found in the bushes. A day of unexpected surprises!

Sunday at the Park

2009-10-29T20:50:00.007-04:00

Inspiration, the sudden urge to pick up my camera and get "that shot", comes out of the blue more often than when it's planned. On Sunday afternoon, I was caught by the way the sun lit this flower arrangement on my table, and took a number of pictures just playing with the colours and composition and how close could I get (not as close as I would like :)).

That's all the excuse I needed ... my planned-for drudgeries at home suddenly evaporated, I changed from yard clothes to public duds, grabbed my camera bag and headed for Springbank Park, a large and well-known spot, sure to be busting with photo-op potential.

The park was full of maples and other trees in varying degrees of colour and defrocking. This striking yellow-leaved maple stood near the riverbank, and it's reflection looked like molten amber.

The carousel that would normally have line ups of children waiting to climb aboard these obedient steeds was nearly riderless.

The stairs led to the park's train depot and the pool area. Not a lot of foot traffic here now!

Even the swings are still and silenced, just one lone child, bundled and scarved, taking what might be the last turn of the year.

No reservations needed here ... not till next year ...

Day Tripping

2009-10-25T20:43:00.004-04:00

My friend Laurel was visiting this weekend from Ottawa, and when I asked if there was anything in particular she'd like to do, she suggested going to Bayfield on Saturday to visit her friend's art gallery. Basically a summer tourist attraction, I haven't been there in years, although it's only about an hour away right on Lake Huron. Like many villages and towns that dot the lakeshore, Bayfield is filled with charm and history. The main street is lined with small shops of all kinds, eateries and inns. The weather started out miserable, rainy and windy, but by the time we got there and enjoyed a marvelous lunch at the Red Pump Inn, the skies had cleared somewhat and was just fine for a walkabout.

A sampling of some of the local sights ...

Pinecroft

2009-10-21T21:19:00.003-04:00

There's a charming retreat of sorts just outside of London called "Pinecroft", nestled back from the road on a woodland piece of property, and offering a variety of attractions. Most widely known for it's tea room and pottery making, Pinecroft also hosts a bed and breakfast, a large pond with a small beach on one side and a picturesque waterfall on the other. There's also a number of small cottages, each one dedicated to one of many spa-type treatments. The trees are so tall that you truly feel embraced under their majestic canopy. It's a place that's good for the body and soul!

Here's one angle looking at the front of the tea room, the main building.

A view of the waterfall ...

This stone frog is a permanent resident, and has some history behind it. Of course you have to pet it ... it might bring you good luck!

This swan was very obliging, and looked so serene against the backdrop of fall colours.

I'm looking forward to going back again soon; I hear they have a heck of a bluegrass jam session on Sunday afternoons!

Pups at 10 Weeks

2009-10-14T22:05:00.003-04:00

Here's a group shot of the pups at 10 weeks. Unfortunately, the boy (on right) will almost certainly be too large for the show ring, so he and his blue sister will be looking for new homes. The tri-coloured girl will be staying, and I have fingers tightly crossed that she turns out as nicely as I hope. Time will tell.

Cavies & KISS

2009-10-08T21:21:00.005-04:00

We had a very full schedule last week, and were even busier this week, so I'm a little tardy posting these photos.

The one really nice thing about raising and showing Shetland Sheepdogs is the nice people you meet. It's pretty much a given that in most sheltie litters, the majority of the puppies will end up going to homes as beloved pets. In this current litter (hopefully up to date pictures coming this weekend) there was one tiny tri coloured female who found her perfect match with a lovely 9 year old girl, Summer, who had saved her Christmas and birthday money for two years for her very own sheltie puppy. They will be coming to pick up "Angel" this Monday, as the family was going away on a bit of a holiday. When they visited to meet the puppy the first time, we heard all about their guinea pigs and the occasional litter they have. It turns out that Pipi (their female GP) was due to have her own babies right before they were leaving, and Summer's mom was a little concerned about finding the right people to look after the mama piggy and her new brood. I guess I don't have to tell you; of course we took Pipi and her three 2 day old babies! I didn't realize that guinea pigs, or cavies, are born totally haired, eyes open and running around, ready to go. They are just the cutest little things ... we're such suckers for critters!:)

When I had agreed for Pipi to come stay with her babies until Angel's new family could come for her, Chelsea and I were looking forward to keeping two of the babies, but only of the same gender. So now we have two new male family members. The first picture is Pipi with her family. The girl's head is in front, pointing to the left. Then there's Rustle meeting Wilbur (Chelsea's), and my new piggy, who I named Steve. We hope we were interpreting the "how to sex your guinea pig" instructions correctly. I guess time will tell.

That same week, KISS came here in London to the John Labatt Centre. It was an absolutely fabulous show. I had never seen them before, and it was well worth the wait. The band is incredibly tight, the hardest working rock group I've ever seen, from beginning to end, and put on a huge show. Chelsea took some pics with her Blackberry, but they didn't turn out very well. Nonetheless, we're very happy to have the pictures. Makes the band members kind of look like little toy figures, don't you think? :).

Super Weekend

2009-09-28T21:32:00.002-04:00

I was at a dog show in Monroe, Michigan this past weekend with a lovely female I have recently purchased, and who was only 1 point shy of her American championship. "Jolie" acquired her Canadian championship some time ago, and then spent a number of months around the Carolinas and neighbouring states being shown with the hopes of completing her AKC championship as well, but just fell short by the time she came back up here to Canada. I promised my friend when Jolie came to live with me in April that I would get that last point on her, to give him his first homebred American champion. So off we went this weekend, with her coat ready to go into a full body shed, and also giving signs to any and all takers that she's likely coming into season before too long, to compete in one of the largest shows around. No mere 6 or 8 rings ... a full 18 rings, all full at any given moment, on a piece of property that you can't see one end from another. The weather was fabulous, downright hot at times, very fitting for what might be the last outdoor show of the season.

We showed well on Saturday, but not quite well enough, and took 2nd in our class. That was all right. When I showed Jolie for the first time, we were 4th of four, and then at the next show, an indoor specialty, we were 3rd, and now today, 2nd. Well, at least we're moving in the right direction! Sunday came, and it was one of those no pressure days. Our ring was in the far corner of the fairgrounds, with some shade trees and lots of grass, that by now was pretty much vacated. I took a big towel over to some shade and a long leash with a toy, after Jolie was all groomed up and ready to go in the ring, and with time to spare, we played and relaxed and enjoyed just being there, ready for our last shot for this year at her championship.

I knew we were "on" from the beginning. I was ecstatic when the judge pointed her finger to us and awarded us Winners Female. And I think my feet left the ground for a moment when she then gave us Best in Breed. That was all Jolie needed for her championship ... now she was finished! But the icing on the cake was in the very competitive group ring, where we were awarded 4th place in the group ... a delightful finish to a super weekend, and well-deserved recognition of a lovely Sheltie ... new American/Canadian Champion Shaydeechase Girl Interrupted.

I took this photo at the Detroit Specialty earlier this month. What a cutie!

Off to the Fair!

2009-09-23T21:16:00.005-04:00

We went to the Western Fair over the weekend, something we don't do every year, but always have a good time when we do. The weather was phenomenal, the best in many years, and the crowds were still going strong by the time we were there on Saturday night, the second last night of it's ten day run.

While we were munching away on fair food (poutine and elephant ears), I took a couple of photos while it was still light out.

This ride was called "Super Shot", but I think it should have been called "Death Drop" :).

The ever-popular Tilt-A-Whirl.

We moved inside to the agricultural exhibits, watched a lot of the horse show, then of course visited all the farm critters. We saw a couple of very newborn lambs, chicks hatching on the spot, and even met a cow that didn't mind giving kisses. How special is that ? :)

This little black pony was very persistently flirting with this shiny beige "horse". I don't know if the pony ever realized that the object of it's affection was actually fiberglass, but it didn't seem to care.

And here's what the rest of the fake horse looked like! This guy was hilarious, great entertainment!

Here's Chelsea hamming it up with one of her very favourite characters, SpongeBob Squarepants. He was looking a little shabby and not very frightening, but made a perfect photo-op nonetheless.

Back out to the midway, and night had fallen when we weren't looking! I love the fair at night, the colours are brighter, the music's louder, the games are more fun to play, the rides are wilder ...

I forget what this ride is called, but there are people standing up along the whole inside. There was a huge lineup for this ride ... not my cup of tea!

These glow sticks and other glowy things were selling like crazy. They looked great, bobbing along in the distance.

And my favourite ride, the Himalayan ... first you go forward, faster and faster, and there's a bit of a dip and rise on each side. The music's hard and loud, the carnie's urging you to scream louder, and everything outside the ride is a teary blur. Then just when it slows down practically to a stop, and you figure you're safe, you've made it, the ride's over, it starts up all over again, but this time in reverse!! It's awesome!!

Quackers

2009-09-19T12:26:00.003-04:00

I had gone down to the Thames River to fish the other night, and although I didn't catch anything (I did "liberate" a few worms), there were a number of ducks and geese that I thought would make a fun photo shoot. Chelsea loves to feed birds (animals of any sort, really) so she and I went back to that spot last evening with the better part of a bag of bread and Rustle and had a great time.

Are we feeding the ducks or singing with them? :)

Incoming!

And then these really funky geese came along, just the 3 of them ... didn't ask what party they had come from or were going to, but it must have been a good one!!

Till next time ...

Summer Reflection

2009-09-14T19:59:00.003-04:00

As summer draws to a close, I wanted to relive my garden through some of the photos I took at different times over the last three or four months. Although certainly not finished yet, none of the plants are looking particularly fresh or young, and if you look closely, the blooms are pretty tired and even downright wilted. Stems are brown and broken, and some plants have all but folded up, already gone until next year. It's time to think about spring-flowering bulbs, autumn mums and falling leaves. But I'm glad that tomorrow, I'll cut the lawn one more time ...

Field of Dreams

2009-09-09T22:13:00.003-04:00

I spent the last couple of days having a wonderful visit with my good friends Kim and Pete (Laureate Shelties) near Ottawa. Of course it was shelties that we first shared years ago, but when Bunny came into the Laureate household last fall, the first time I met her, I was smitten!! And then along came Barbie, Bunny's half-sister, this year, and now it's just poodle heaven! Oh, the shelties are pretty darn nice, too!!:)

Here are the two sisters starting to rip across the field.

It didn't take long before Barbie started to look like a little mud hen, racing in and out of the ditch.

Bunny takes a moment to check out the field behind her.

Gabi, the matriarch, looking on at the mayhem around her.

The Bog Revisited

2009-09-04T18:39:00.005-04:00

I took some photos while visiting the bog in the spring. It doesn't ever seem to change very much, but this time I was less interested in the flora and much more interested in the fauna. I know there's a lot of deer in there ... somewhere ... and a friend had told me how they'll come out to drink at the pond most evenings. That was good enough for me ... off on safari!

There is a boardwalk that takes you through the bog in one direction, and a dirt path in another. I took the boardwalk this time; I don't know if the dirt path takes you very directly to the pond. It's kind of eery; the sun doesn't get through in any strength, as you can tell from the heavy algae layer and the dense moss growth.

At the end of the boardwalk is a platform with a railing around it. It's a great vantage point to see the whole pond (almost a small lake), and the wooded area beyond. While I was waiting for what I was sure would be herds and herds of my intended photo subjects, I was watching these goldfish pecking at something they thought was edible. Apparently people opt to come and dispose of their unwanted fish in this pond rather than flushing them, but they are so abundant, the bog caretakers need to purge them from time to time. Like the deer, no natural adversaries to help keep their numbers down.

I'm not a turtle expert, but this fellow didn't seem interested in the goldfish at all, so perhaps he's strictly a vegetarian-type. He was only mildly curious about me.

And here is one view of the furthest point of the pond. I'm quite sure there were many pairs of doe eyes just waiting for me to leave so they could come out and get their evening's drink. I left them to it ... this time :)

Polo, Anyone?

2009-08-27T22:41:00.002-04:00

Polo has always been one horse sport that seemed too distant, beyond the reach of most horse people that I knew. Recently, I've been very fortunate to meet a few members of a local polo club that totally erased that dated thinking, and spent a terrific evening with them this week trying to get the hang of this dynamic sport. I'm looking forward to going out to another one of their practices, now that I have an idea of how the game actually works.

The polo ponies themselves are exceptional animals, extremely athletic and the valued ones are very "into" the game. The rules are basically written to protect the horses, and it's exciting to know that this type of horse sport seems to be growing in popularity and finding it's own place among grass roots horsemen.

Puppy Pawlooza!

2009-08-23T22:18:00.005-04:00

Yesterday was the first annual Puppy Pawlooza, London's Festival for Dogs. I've never seen so many displays, vendors, interactive opportunities and contests for dogs, and then so many dogs, in one place! The day offered such events as agility demos, a pet psychic, canine first aid, and quick lessons in cute tricks, obedience, nutrition and safety with children. There were lots of samples to give away, and the events were free. It was a fabulous day and I hope this was the first of many Pawloozas to come!

This dog's owner was giving a jumping demonstration. Yes, it really was the dog who was supposed to be jumping, but watching this owner (and others) who decided that this was the way to teach their dog how to jump was really far more entertaining!

A pair of young Sharpei.

And two stunning Harlequin great danes.

Here's Rustle, just too sexy for his new hoody!!

One of the highlight events was the dock diving. All kinds of dogs participated. The real water dogs who knew exactly what they were supposed to do, the wanna-be water dogs who were all gungho until the toy was actually tossed into the water and no amount of barking would beckon it back, and those that just plain barked at every one else. That would be the Shelties :).

Another very popular event was the frozen doggy yogurt eating contest. Three prizes were awarded: the fastest, the most polite and the cutest. Can you guess who won the cutest prize??

I was laughing so hard, I almost couldn't take this picture!! The victors in the "cutest" category ... and who would argue? :)

Dragon Boat Races

2009-08-20T20:40:00.002-04:00

Since 1993, the London Dragon Boat Race Festival has held this exciting community event with not only the races, but great food, interesting cultural displays and different arts and crafts.

For the first time, this year the London Dragon Boat Race Festival partnered with the Rowbust Breast Cancer Survivor Dragon Boat Racing Team. The London Festival events and community racing were held as always on the Saturday, but as an added bonus, Rowbust marked their 10th Anniversary, racing on Saturday and Sunday with teams coming from across Canada and the US. I'm sure there were at least 12 or 15 Rowbust teams, plus the many commercial teams competing. Proceeds for this event went to Children's Hospital London Health Sciences Centre.

A close up of the ferocious dragon figureheads on each boat.

Six boats competed per heat, advancing along through the weekend.

The winning team in this heat crosses the finish line.

Celebrating by splashing the drummer who keeps the beat for the rowers in each boat, more than welcomed on this very hot day!

To keep the races going, the next group of boats is already heading down to the other end of the "race track" before the finishing teams have come in to the docks.

Two of the heads that are worn in a traditional Lion Dance as part of the ceremonies.

One of the groups comprising the Rowbust Breast Cancer Survivor Dragon Boat Racing Team.

Puppy Pics

2009-08-16T10:07:00.003-04:00

Here's a group photo of Keva's puppies at 12 days old. I've waited a bit before posting their pictures, as the one little tri girl was less than half the size of her siblings, only 3 oz at birth, but now she's catching up and doing fabulously. She hasn't seen a scrawny day yet, but it's been a lot of work keeping her tummy full :). The other girl is also a tri colour, not a bi black as I had thought up until a day or two ago, and then there's a blue girl and a blue boy. The male is on the far right. I've included a picture of mom "Keva" - "Chelson Satin Image" - as well, and you can see dad "Jasper" - "Lynphil Timeless Piece" on the Lynphil Shelties website. I just love these puppies!

Rodeo Drive: Part 2 - The Cowboys

2009-08-10T21:35:00.004-04:00

These are the guys' events. The first one is the steer wrestling. It was a fun challenge to follow the horses as well as the cattle and try to anticipate where they would all end up :).

Calf roping wasn't nearly as one-sided as you might think. The calves did win a few times!

And the final event that everyone waits for, the bull riding ...

Rodeo Drive: Part 1 - The Cowgirls

2009-08-10T12:05:00.003-04:00

The third last event in the Dodge Rodeo Tour in Ontario was held in Exeter this past weekend, and what a show! In spite of the heat and humidity, there was a breeze and enough clouding over that the afternoon's fun could still be enjoyed. It's been more than a few years since I've been to a rodeo, and this is world class competition. They're back again in September at the Western Fair just before the final championship event in Mississauga. I can hardly wait! I took a slew of photos, so I'm posting in two parts, first, the ladies' events and then the guys' in the next day or so. Yee haw!!! :)

These ladies were competing in the barrel race, the fastest timed rodeo event. The winning time was just under 20 seconds, which is excellent time.

First and second barrels done, heading for number three ...

Coming around the third barrel ...

And heading for home!

These were two synchronized teams for the musical ride.

Another high speed and tremendously athletic event, polebending.

Bits & Pieces

2009-08-07T23:58:00.009-04:00

I've collected some photos of various events and occasions over the last few weeks, not enough for an entire post, I thought, but interesting or different enough to share at some point, so here they are (newest to oldest).

Last weekend a few streets in downtown London were closed to accomodate the Imadon Street Painting Festival, a large group of chalk artists including a separate group that dedicated itself solely to the re-creation of the Sistine chapel. It was amazing!

That same weekend we celebrated my daughter Chelsea's birthday. We enjoy "theme parties", and this year it was all about Hannah Montana. Here's Chels and Rustle blowing out her candles.

Two pictures of my entire vegetable garden, one fancy tomato and one cherry tomato plant. I planted them some time ago, and had hoped to be harvesting them any time now. I'm still waiting.

At another festival in mid July, this fellow was making molds of peoples' hands as a fund raiser for an arts project which would contribute funds toward making artificial limbs for war victims in Asia. It was kind of eery to see all these fake but very real looking hands strewn about.

And the ever popular rope game. That's Jolie leading Kelly and Keva on a merry chase. A moment later, they ran into something and it was game over, for a minute anyway.

Keva giving fair warning ...

And of course here's Rustle giving Kelly the evil eye. It was a draw :).

Rein Delay

2009-07-27T21:05:00.004-04:00

I went to a large Quarter Horse show this weekend and had hoped to capture some of the performance events, like pole bending and barrel racing. Unfortunately, like so much of the month of July, the rain caused more than a few delays in the show schedule. This was what a lot of the horses and riders did for the afternoon.

Waiting ... and more waiting ...

Play Ball!

2009-07-20T20:51:00.003-04:00

We went to an Intercounty Baseball League game on the weekend at Labatt Memorial Park here in London, Ontario. Labatt Park is the "oldest continually operating baseball grounds in the world", with a history dating back to 1877. It's a great place for a baseball game, right downtown, but you really don't feel that it's that close to the city's core.
These few photos tell a little about the intensity of play, and the big-on-family atmosphere the club promotes.
Oh, the London Majors (in white) did win over the Kitchener Panthers, 8-7.

I had to look twice at the catcher's mitt to see the ball neatly caught tight in his glove.

As part of the family theme, every couple of innings there would be some kind of little competition, candy toss or relay. This was a base running race, where a slew of kids started off between home plate and first, and ran all the way around the outside of the diamond, back to where they started.Somebody did pick out a winner, although I'm not sure how! But they all had fun ...

Air Rustle

2009-07-14T21:22:00.002-04:00

Going deep ....

Ooooof ... rough landing ... how undignified ...

Gotitgotitgotit ...

Ahhhhhh ... my reward ...

Agility ... for Fun!

2009-07-12T22:54:00.005-04:00

This was just a casual group of agility enthusiasts giving a bit of a demo today. Although I've "played at" agility (and loved it!), I've never shot it before, and really just wanted to capture some of the fun from the dogs' perspectives.

In typical high drive border collie fashion, this fellow could hardly contain himself at the start line.

He barely stopped barking for his entire run and every time that he ran, too!

These two shelties were senior citizens also, but you'd never know it from their enthusiasm.

And this is Dexter, a 10 year old cocker, just having the time of his life. What a grin!!

Puppy Play

2009-07-07T20:36:00.006-04:00

At 7 weeks and a bit, the puppies are outside a lot and loving it!

"Should I or shouldn't I? Hmmmmm ... maybe not ..."

"Uncle! Uncle! Uncle!"

"I said, GET OFF!! ... and I really mean it!"!

Still friends.

Until tomorrow ...

A New Friend

2009-07-01T21:53:00.007-04:00

"Hey kid, you sneaking up on me?"

"You want a what?"

"Well ... all right ... I guess you're not so bad ... "

Canadian, Please

2009-07-01T21:38:00.002-04:00

This is great ... and done by two local (London) people. Happy Canada Day!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mWQf13B8epw

Pool Party!

2009-06-30T20:41:00.004-04:00