A day in the life...

We are surrounded in our daily lives by creepie crawlies...some scary and some, not so much. My images show just a couple of the creepie crawlies that can be found in our yard on a daily basis. Above, the banana spider...or Golden Silk. they do bite, though the most that will happen is a welt...that I am aware of anyway. I make sure to walk the yard when we are out and about and if I run across a web that is anywhere the dogs will be...I remove it. Thus forcing the spider to move elsewhere.




Now, like many I am not crazy about snakes and would very much prefer if they understood boundaries....as in the fence is there to keep them out. They don't and here in FL there are several that are poisonous. The above....I am guessing to be a pygmy rattler...and yes...poisonous.
Hey....if I am wrong about the type of snake please do correct me.

Sadly...these snakes can hide pretty well...as this one did. While out with pooper scooper in hand I stepped over it, as did the dogs sniff it before realizing what it was. Dogs were told leave it....and inside. Now...I was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY and have never happened across a snake...so my knowledge of them is....well not enough.

I placed a dog toy near it (by tossing rather then walking up to it) so as I knew the exact location, then left it alone for I was not sure if alive or dead. Later on...it was gone. I am so much more of a "brave" individual with a camera in hand...and did manage this one pic.

the dogs and I were indeed very lucky. I recommend all those living in areas with snakes to be aware of First Aid for your dog...just in case....and of course teaching recall (here or come) and leave it until your dogs are proficient with these commands.

If like me you live in an area that has it's fair share of these scary creepie crawlies....be aware. Have a safety plan for your dogs to help keep them safe...or an emergency plan. Keep grass low, bushes trimmed...fencing to keep your "curious" dogs away from certain areas. Enjoy your space...just as we do (shown below)...just be aware of creepie crawlies and things that go bump in the night!


The pack enjoying a Beautiful Fall day!
For those interested in viewing the video...sorry...i usually do not add music to any videos added here....so, scroll down and turn off the site music otherwise it will be very annoying!

Creepie Crawlies...

Little Niki is a sweet little cocker mix that came into our lives years ago....funny how it seems like yesterday. The image above was taken in our yard this morning... a look of determination on her face...one of my favorite expressions.

Her oh so spirited ways, her determination is what saved her all those years ago when she was found in the creek...then a few years back when she injured her spine. Partially paralyzed...it did not stop her...barely even slowed her down.

Upon her arrival she cozied up to the Goldens that rescued her...soon after...the rest of us. It was perfectly clear early on she was to be a Daddy's Girl....she simply adores Mike. She adores me...however...just the mention that Mike is on his way and she will wait...listen...and wait... Upon his arrival home she can barely contain herself.

While she is always so very happy to see me...she knows when Mike is around she can do no wrong. Constant hugs, petting fests...non stop.
Spoiled...yes indeed.

Daddy's Girl...

When a loved one... two legged or four, becomes ill or suffers an injury the best thing we can do for them is help make their life a bit easier...if at all possible, make them more comfortable.
That is what I have been doing for Rocky for the past four weeks or so. He has been on daily dose of muscle relaxers and anti inflammatory for what the vet thinks is cervical disc disease.

He has had to be kept quiet with not much physical activity, not an easy task when dealing with a three year old Golden that is surrounded by a pack of dogs ranging in ages 1- six. After two weeks on the drugs he so wanted to jump, run play.....and then of course as I would place him in the crate to take the others out for a play....that look....an unforgettable look.... haunting eyes that are screaming out.....Don't Leave Me in Here....TAKE ME WITH YOU....I WANT TO PLAY TOOOOO!!!
Please know that I am not at all exaggerating ;-)

The New Year found me giving him his last pill....since then I have been waiting , watching....slowly allowing him his freedom. Still, not allowing the two Goldens to wrestle....their most favorite pass time.
The last couple of days I have watched Rocky pick up a toy and parade it around Bailey....enticing him to play. With such a grand invitation to play, well to see the look in Baileys eyes, just what he has waited for....I am pretty quick to put a stop to it before it gets started...a big disappointment for both of them.

Having been watching the pack for all of these weeks I was very tickled to see Gemma step in to help Bailey with his energy...and of course to have a little fun herself.
Rocky let it be known, as did I there would be none of that and pretty much Bailey has really not tried to initiate play with him.
Bailey for the most part has turned to Gemma, his toys and me for a release of energy.

After all these weeks Rocky is letting the pack know he is now ready for some action...
As he is not yet out of the woods I think he needs a couple more weeks to warm up slowly to a more active way of life. Rocky has never been the most active Golden....too many joint issues for that. He does so enjoy a good fetch fest once in a while....loves playing with Bailey...enjoys walks.

I have worked hard at keeping Rocky mentally stimulated....along with trying to help him to heal with supplementation along with his prescription medication and the occasional dose of Milk thistle. Massages...one of his very favorites and of course enough hugs, kisses to spoil any dog.

As I am not currently working I of course am so hoping healing has indeed taken place for
the cost of veterinarian care is so very expensive. Having relocated finding a good veterinarian clinic is a daunting and expensive task. The thought of surgery, not to mention his size... care ....well I do not even want to think about that....time will tell.



Recently I read a comment on FB stating anyone who would spend allot of money on a dog bed is basically an idiot. I had a pretty good chuckle for Mike had gone out looking for a comfy bed for Rocky's crate. Since he would be spending a good amount of time in it....keeping him comfortable was important to us.
Yes....one can just throw a pillow down for their dogs....they would indeed find it comfy and cozy. Before little Niki's back surgery several years ago old comforters were used in crates, on the floor. As an individual that suffers from RA and Lupus....well I know pain and discomfort...the importance of a good mattress can indeed make all the difference.

With that thought process....and the experience of having my fair share of senior dogs in my pack that suffered from arthritis the hunt was on for a more comfy...well made dog bed that wold fit into the crate.

Mike volunteered to look around for something more suitable...he happened across a bed that would be wonderful for Rocky's crate as he explained it to me via phone conversations...I then thought of Gemma who is now six and showing a few joint issues. Her crate is kept in my studio which in cold weather does not warm up as the other rooms in the house. I could easily move the crate, however this is the space she is most comfortable in. The bed is several inches thick (keeping her away from the drafts...enough support for those achy sore joints)....well lined, easy to care for.

Two were purchased...one for Rocky, one for Gemma. Bailey prefers to not have a bed in his crate...though when colder I do place a throw mat inside....Niki....hers was specially made for her....she is partially paralyzed and one must give pressure points a thought...along with those areas where there is little feeling....and of course it must be lined.




The beds....a great big hit.
I have opted to keep the fuzzy throw mats on top of the new bed...making it even more comfy...Goldens, they love a bolster to rest their head on, or hang their head off of it.
Bailey....he enjoys a little snooze in either Rocky's or Gemma's crate....as will you often find Niki in one of the crates with the new beds when unoccupied. Rocky....well his first time in the crate with his new bed there was little moving around trying to find a comfortable position...a big difference from before the bed was placed in the crate.. Yes....he likes it.

The comment was not made about me, nor directed at me in fact until now I had not made reference to the purchased beds. No offense was taken other then amusement. Most of us share our opinions based on our own life experiences...forgetting we each take a different path in life....forgetting that our experiences are different....so easy to do here in cyberspace.

Human Nature....we each will have moments of behaving like an idiot...each of us will not always be the brightest light on the tree...Searching out and purchasing a bed for my dogs that costs a good bit because it is well made (and made in the USA), durable and easy to care for....nope not even close on the stupid/idiot meter ;-)

So....while I no doubt each of us has indeed over indulged our children, furry friends and other loved ones....wondering, just what is the most expensive item you have purchased for one of your furry friends?
I am stepping up here to announce...other then the dog beds ;-) that when Phoenix was with us...he indeed was a wonderful, fun dog.....he also happened to be very hyper and always needed something to do....I went out and purchased agility equipment....not very good with my hands I could not make it.

I purchased solid, well built equipment....a bit pricey but with yearly maintenance it would last a lifetime. The best money I ever spent...and indeed, he was well worth it ;-) as was many other dogs...all benefited from the exercise, mental stimulation as was it the best way to bond...and for Niki....a wonderful....creative way to keep her from getting bored with her rehab.
I still have that equipment and remember well working along side Phoenix and passing what I learned along to others.


Spend time with your furry friends....take the time to better learn to communicate and understand them, teach them....they are so much more intelligent then we give them credit for... while I would love to write that sharing one's life with a furry friend will cost you little....it really depends on just what you can afford....it depends on your circumstances. There is nothing wrong with every once in a while splurging on our loved ones.



Remember...Your time....well it is the least expensive thing of all.

Idiot meter...

Several weeks ago I ran across a wonderful site called the East NY Project.
As I went through the site I could not help but smile...being familiar with so many of the locations, neighborhoods and recognizing a few of the names found throughout the site. Thought I would look through my belongings and see if I could find a few images that I could contribute. Easier said then done for my pictures are here, there and every where. I am at the moment scattered between two states.








Looking at the two school pictures one cannot help but wonder what happened to all of those faces. I remember having a little crush on one of those little boys, I remember one glorious fall day Sally and I (she lived on the corner of Ridgewood and Linwood) making piles of the fallen leaves and jumping in them....I remember not liking one of the little boys....he was mean...one day his home went on fire...they lost everything....I remember bringing cloths and canned goods to school for his family...I remember so many children bringing toys, cloths, food... I do not remember him ever being mean again.


I remember sitting out on the stoop with the elderly family next door sipping lemonade and listening to all of the wonderful stories they would share with me....I remember hot summer days, Nick the ice cream man pulling up in the little ice cream van...I remember what fun it was to run through the open hydrants...the monkey bars and swings in HP. I remember having lunch in the large cemetery...peaceful, green open space...I remember leaving little stones on the head stones of grave sites that appeared unvisited... I remember climbing the mail box and sitting high....I remember stick ball, stoop ball, double dutch and hop scotch. I remember block parties, soda fountains, chocolate cream soda...I remember the best pizza...ever!


I remember a skinny, odd little girl that was terribly shy...always wore a silly grin on her face....loved to visit the library and read...I know what became of her ;-)
Hopefully others will run across the East NY Project site and share their stories and pictures!









The video below is just another day in the neighborhood...
The dogs doing what they do best ;-)

I remember...

Ahhhhh...and the world is once again right!
I had gotten so very accustomed to the sound of the fountain that is in our little pond. Three weeks ago it just stopped working, I am told this is a pretty common problem with them. This afternoon while taking a break from grooming the puppies there was a man working on it. I did not at all envy his work...snakes, gators...bugs and of course four barking dogs at the fence.




The boys after their groom...not the best grooming but hey....I managed to get it done. Took forever, poor pups have been a bit neglected. As I type that I am smiling for they really were not that bad, considering. The hands held up...though very stiff at the moment. Progress...though very slow going!

The image below was taken while I was getting up...Bailey came over to Niki, stopped and they had a long moment...doggie stuff...licking each others faces. They are a nice little pack!

Dee's Fountain...

Twenty steps back...just how it goes with RA and Lupus.

Almost a week and a half ago I went to see a hand surgeon....two injections, one in each wrist (OUCH). Indeed, both hands look better...and feel a little better, though still painful. At least I can wash my hair without experiencing excruciating jolts of pain radiating from my hands up my forearm....improvements made.
Typing for too long, well not a good idea. The dogs, they have looked better....though I am sure they do not at all mind the fact that their daily grooming sessions have been on hold. All four are in need of pedicures...so the next few days I will be doing my best to get to each dog.

I so look forward to when I can again hold my camera with minimal to no pain....not to mention taking the dogs for a walk and our favorite....beach runs.
Poor Bailey...training with distractions must resume....at this point it is a do over. Starting over with training...most will be a refresher course for him, that is without distractions. Just in time for the cooler weather....good for both of us!
We are keeping our fingers and paws crossed, hoping we are starting our 10 steps forward...again!



The above ingredients was for a meal I prepared Friday evening. My sister was coming for a visit and during previous visits I had promised this meal to only have something come up causing a change of plans last minute.

So, the menu....Chicken and Dumplings and a cheese cake for desert (made with mascarpone cheese and chocolate wafer crust.
Comfort foods....delicious.
My experiment with the pressure cooker and cheese cake did not go well....it is a wonderful idea and I will continue experimenting with the time and temp til perfect!
It was not a big deal for I was prepared and had the oven on and ready just in case.

It cooked in the pressure cooker, then in a water bath in the oven for when it was removed from the pressure cooker it was very liquid still....then I removed it from the oven to cool and was going to place in the refrigerator over night. Well....I just was not paying attention and before placing in the frig I undid the spring pan....Never do that for it must chill in the pan!!!!

Still, I thought, ok, not a biggie I'll just pop it in the frig....as I turned, for whatever reason Niki came in the kitchen and was standing there...in my attempt to avoid stepping on her, tripping over her....bad hands, cheese cake out of the spring pan....well half of it slid onto the dog, then floor. Though not as pretty as it should have been, only half a cake....it was very good ;-)
Oh....and Niki gave the cake two paws up, Donna gave it two thumbs ;-)

10 Steps Forward...

"I Love My Dog " Paint Your Pet Contest...

Living with Lupus often at times is very challenging...my number one complaint is that it is just so very difficult to make plans. Then of course there is the pain and discomfort thing...nope, not at all fun.

As with most things in life I have found there is a balance to everything....so on a day where no plans were made, hands very sore...I took some anti- inflammatory, picked up my camera, put a few treats in my pocket and headed out side with the puppies.

One of the very first things I ran across was the above Hidden Treasure...I swear he actually posed for me.


My furry pack have learned to sense when things are a bit off with me....they usually give me a bit of time to work  through....find my balance if you will...find something that is a bit awe inspiring and so today...it was a tiny little lizard that, rather then run as they usually do...stuck around and allowed me to be in his space long to capture a lizard doing what lizards do when no one is around.

Then as I turned, there were my pups, rather then trying to get me to throw a ball or Frisbee, they went off on their own...the two females enjoying a moment in the sun....the Goldens a good roll and romp...doing what dogs do.



Hidden treasures are all around us...you need not go far from where you are to find them...just need to take a little time and actually look for them!

Hidden treasures...

"I hear the creaking of a floor board
And the squeak of a distant door
There's something coming down the hallway
But I can't say anymore
I fear that it might hear me
I can barely take a breath
My heart is beating wildly
And I'm scared half to death
I wonder what it could be
A Monster from under the bed
Or maybe it's nothing really
And just a Monster in my head"

If like you you are not fond of little creatures taking up residence in your home the above image will indeed freak you out. Taken a few days ago near Niki's crate.

It started out with one...not a biggie, then another...then another to as of last count a total of six scorpions found...and yes one was found under my bed, not really a monster but like the above children's poem...try going to sleep knowing there crawling under, maybe, just maybe....in the bed with you!

The good news, they are not poisonous. I did happen to read somewhere that if allergic to bee stings you could have adverse effects, though this is not at all common. The bad news....a sting HURTS....so I am told and I realllly do not want to find out.

So, since a family of scorpions is indeed taking up residence, what to do?? In my research I found there really is nothing you can do....you can of course spray your house, however unless spraying directly on to the scorpion it will not really help. Now, how the heck are they getting in....went around to all entry ways that have little gaps and placed a powder down. I also read that having a black light is very handy for scorpions will light up (glow) under the light. If you have a nest....I read to use your black light and go collecting at night for this is really the only way to get control of a large population around one's home.

Hmmmm, got me to thinking...

Sounds like a great game so the next few weeks I will be inviting several family members and Friends over....feed them....give them a few drinks once I notice that they are a bit.....impaired... send them out into the night with a black light, tweezers and jar....what fun!
Wanna come for dinner ???

The below clips are just some yard time this afternoon....the pups are loving the fenced yard and my poor hands and wrists are getting a much needed break...enjoy ;-)

There's a monster under my bed...

Our count down until the fence is installed is less then a week away. My poor hands can use a bit of a rest. Nike and Bailey's bladders must be the size of a pea ;-) For our outings throughout the day are many!
Their daily walks on leash will continue for it is a wonderful way for the pack to spend time together, and great exercise for all of us..especially me. I can paint, draw for hours often getting lost so they make me pay a little more attention rather then getting lost in the moment.
Yes, even though so hot and humid here in FL we still manage our daily walks. they say you get used to the humidity, I have been here a few months and so far when outside I appear to to melt....funny how I seem to be the only one.

The past few months have indeed been challenging in that the two goldens just have not been getting enough exercise. Having the fence will allow them to pick up speed without having me at the end of the leash correcting them. Off leash romps are so needed. Walks are wonderful but a few crazy eights sprinted throughout the yard, a good game of fetch and of course some agility no doubt will be such a wonderful release for them.
Once my hands get a little bit of a break.....and I am so hoping that improvements will be made and the pain and discomfort lessens.

Yesterday afternoon I headed out for a few errands...since moving into the House on my list of needed items has been a pooper scooper. I pick up after the dogs after each and every BM...just so easy to do it that way....I have been holding at times up to four retractable while attempting to bend and scoop with a plastic baggie. A couple of nights ago I made the mistake of falling asleep....around 2 am I awoke on the sofa realizing the dogs needed to do their final outing. Hook all up and out we go....one after the other they pee, poop...I reach into my pocket for the baggie....yawning, sleepy and tired, bad hands, I did not realize there was a hole in the end of the bag until I felt the warmth...well you get the picture.

With that fresh in my memory I did indeed remember to stop at the local pet shop to find they only had one type...yes, for those not in the know....there are several types of pooper scoopers. this model comes in two parts. The first part is long handled and you actually wrap a bio degradable baggie at the end, the other is also long handled and you use that to scoop the poop into the end with the baggie. Looked easy enough....that is until I got it home and stood there for what seemed like an eternity trying to attach the plastic baggie. My arthritic hands just took forever to get it....I was actually laughing at myself for I no doubt if someone was watching me rather then thinking something wrong with my hands....I think they would be under the impression I were a bit slow ;-) Indeed....that as well!



Last night, just as the sun was going down the boys and I left the house for our walk around the neighborhood. I reached out for my camera and realized...while I did indeed charge the battery, I also vacuumed and needed that out lit. Maybe it is age, or me being preoccupied, I never did re- plug the the battery charger in. thank goodness for our cell phones...in a pinch they do a great job.

It was one of those evenings when there actually seems to be a bit of a breeze...very refreshing. After our walk we just hung outside the house. Watched a few birds at the lake, scanned the water for any alligators :-) Life at the moment is good!!!

Pooper Scooper...

August 2008:
Yes....it is true. After all of these years I finally have the ability to admit that I am a Chocoholic.
My first meeting is this evening....wouldn't you know, first thing this morning the doorbell rang and when I opened the door, there in front of me was this large box marked GODIVA Chocolatier.....
I was shocked!
I wonder how they learned about the meeting....they must be watching me...
I grabbed the box very quickly and slammed the door shut. Ran to all of the windows and closed all of the blinds. I opened the box about two hours ago and my stomach is is so bloated and the pain is unbelievable. I must get rid of all of the evidence....I first tore the boxes in tiny shreds....now what to do with the chocolate....it was tough, but I managed to eat all of it...
I am too ill to attend the meeting this evening, maybe I'll make the next one.

August 2009:
I no longer attend any of the Chocoholic meetings...I knew one day I just may regret my decision.While personally, I do not ever think you can be "cured" I do believe the need, want and desire to have chocolates lessens with each passing day. I was almost leading a normal life in that I could actually open my blinds... leave my house, shop and visit friends and family homes without any fear of having an "episode" where I would do anything to get to a piece of chocolate. Hell, I would knock my own mother down to get just a sniff, taste of it!
I am so embarrassed to share that, but I know that for a fact for I
actually did it. Yes, I know the cravings and feeling of desperation all too well.

I almost made it...I was well on my way....that is until today...
Damn Godiva!
I am not at all sure how they learned of my progress, but they would do anything in their power to have me fall off the wagon...
At 1: 12 pm this afternoon, Wed. 8-5-09 there was a knock at the front door. I had this uncomfortable feeling in the pit of my stomach as I approached my front door and peeked out and saw the UPS truck in my driveway....the driver... was laughing hysterically while watching me...the hair on my neck and arms stood up as thoutgh electricity was surging through my body. As I opened the front door before looking down I noticed I was already salivating....I knew, I just knew... before actually seeing the box stamped with Godiva Choclatier....

So now....once again my house is dark, all windows and doors are locked....
the only evidence is the stickiness of my keyboard from my fingers...my tummy hurts for I have eaten all biscuits....as have I devoured every last morsel of the powdered hot chocolate....and still I crave more...god help me.

Thank You Donna...for the early Birthday present...it is yummy!!!
Godiva makes the best Biscuits and Hot Chocolate :-)

Chocoholics Anonymous...

Once locals learn that you will soon be a permanent resident of FL they cannot help but share the many tales of the local
wildlife....especially about the snakes and alligators. Of course the stories do have merit, just a few weeks ago one guy woke up and decided to do some gardening. He headed to the Walmart located off of US 1 to purchase some plants and supplies. He wandered around putting Items Into his cart, just as he was reaching for a plant....tucked behind the plant he was reaching for was a pygmy rattler and sadly for the man, he Indeed was bitten.

I listen to most of the stories and smile for I just may never encounter any of the poisonous snakes....however being surrounded by water....chances that the dogs and I actually run I\into something....well the odds that we do increase due to the fact we are surrounded by water.

When walking my neighborhood we pass a section that is very woodsy and has a sign that says "Natural Preserves"....meaning swamp land ;) As of yet the only creatures I have seen come out of this area is very large birds. It is not bad enough being told about the gators and snakes I have been told there are wild hogs, not seen any of those either....and would prefer not to for they can be very aggressive. I am not a national geographic photographer and while I love to photograph nature...getting that close and personal I can do without...this Is the reason I purchased a long lens ;-)

There are times when just taking the dogs for a quick pee has been challenging for they will spy, sense, smell something in the woods and appear frightened...more often then not I respect their senses...sometimes though, they are a little off...

Since moving Into the house, once night falls Rocky makes several trips to the door next to my studio, he growls, and growls. This has become a nightly activity....the first, second and sometimes third time he does this all the dogs take part by rushing the door, hackles up...barking ready to defend Rocky, territory, After a while, they do not bother, though Rocky continues to guard, scare away something only he sees.

The first few nights that this behavior first appeared I would put the outside lights on, look out to see what the fuss was about...never noticed anything. I have a sneaking suspicion he Is actually growling at his own reflection ;-)
Yesterday I finally got around to hanging something to cover the glass in the door...stays open during the day for I love the light coming through, however once dusk, I close it....worked like a charm for while he went to the door a couple of times he returned without a sound.

When we leave the house, before walking off the patio I do my best to survey If anything is in the grass....survey the woods out back....see nothing we all leave the covered patio where we risk getting bitten up by a horrible...sneaky and nasty critter, the mosquito. Some day's they are not a bother, other days they are
terrible....just like It was when we stayed at the beach house.

Bailey loves to roll around in the grass and every time he does this....even though before coming back inside I run my hands through his coat....attached to him Is usually a little lizard. That keeps me busy for I then must around trying to catch and release back In the yard.
On occasion a frog will also find his way inside....the tree frogs like to suction themselves on anything that does not move....especially the glass....around all windows and doors, lots of frog and lizard poop...even on the glass...frog art!






Two weeks ago...a lovely Sunday afternoon I took Niki out for a stroll around the yard...she got to play touch and kick ball...just as we were headed back to the patio I stopped for I thought I saw something in
the water. Now, I have Lupus and Rheumatoid Arthritis and inflammation can effect your vision, and it has In my case. Adding to the problem is the fact as we age we have a difficult time focusing...my vision at times is very blurry even with my glasses. so...on this lovely sunny, summer afternoon I was pretty certain I was watching an alligator lazily floating in the pond. I watched for a while and then retreated back in the house with Niki, got my camera and returned to watch and
photograph. Also....to get an estimate of size for I was told once they reach a certain length they can be moved elsewhere....of course while I have no fear in being a lizard and frog wrangler....I would call a professional for the gator ;-)




As I watched it appeared to sink down into the water a bit, to soon emerge enough to get a few photographs. I tracked him for a good part
of the afternoon....just snapping away certain that I got some awesome shots ;-)

Imagine my surprise when I got around to putting the card into the card reader on the Mac to see a log that through my eyes, on that sunny, summer afternoon oh so appeared to be an alligator, though it does closely resemble an alligator...don't you agree ;-)

Bad vision and over active imagination made for a pretty exciting day!

Gator sighting...

During a late dinner last night Michael and I sat at the dining room table discussing the days events as we both nibbled on our meal. Two golden's resting under the table, one eye open for you never know when a tasty morsel will tumble to the floor....Niki wandering about, Gemma napping without a care in the world.

Our conversation tuned to an interesting topic....talent. When I worked full time as a dog trainer most people would watch me work with their dog and they would say...wow....I was so "gifted" to have the ability to understand canines. The same with my camera.....then later with my painting....and now with writing a tale or two.
Talented/ Gifted are not words that I use....I remember so many years ago reading an article in a magazine about dog training...I gave it a try and could not believe how the relationship with my dog improved. I read every book on animal behavior...and with each dog that joined our pack....such wonderful teachers, they taught me well. Soon I was training other peoples dogs, teaching group classes....I worked hard....as did my dogs.

During group classes I started photographing students on graduation night....the camera just felt right in my hands. Soon flowers were my subjects....while I will photograph everything, anything if the lighting is wonderful... my true love is animals....domestic and wild.
Again...my own little pack taught me well....for there is a little secret to getting the best shot.... patience.
You cannot rush the moment...the light....it just happens naturally....if your patient. The same with painting...the life that you can create with your lines, color....scribbles....one must have the ability to look and see what is not so visible to most. My paintings are often time not the exact likeness of the subject....my interpretation....what I see.

I no doubt there are those that have chosen the very same journey as I and arrived so much faster, achieved so much more...I suppose.some do have an inner gift....but still their craft must be honed.
Along my journey my furry friends have been by my side every step of the way...as teachers, as my subjects...and as students....and it all started with one dog, a magazine article and a lot of hard work....still ;-)

You've got talent...

Finally a dry day...a bit overcast but oh how everything is green and lovely.

After several more days of rain...time for a nice long walk. Looking down at my hand and wondering if I should take the two Golden's together...a second later I have better judgment. Taking them one at a time is the best I can manage at the moment. My hand does not seem to be healing....as the weeks drag on I am amazed at the pain that it is still causing me. I know I should not be walking them at all for one pull can further damage it, but they must be walked, especially the pup.
I look over at them....clearly the most wild and hyper dog will be going first....Bailey. At this thought I smile....he is six months old today, gone are the puppy features...he was such an adorable puppy. Not yet full grown....short legged compared to his body.
His behavior....more like Dennis the Menace ;-)



He is so very inquisitive, enthusiastic....and yes....he loves to stir up excitement within his pack....and at this moment in time I am almost certain he believes his name to be No No Bad Dog!
There are moments of such sweetness....it's there...he has learned if he looks at you in such a way it will just melt your heart. if you have ever loved a Golden...you know the look...head cocked at a slight angle....looking directly up at you...wide eyes, slight, oh so very slight goofy upper lip curl...they have learned with that one look you will pet, hug them, regardless to what your doing at that moment!

Bailey still seeks out the comfort of being near Rocky....at this point in time I am still so enjoying their relationship. Rocky...enjoys Bailey...simple. The other day I was busy, preoccupied....fed bailey lunch and then forgot about him in the crate. Funny how they learn certain things....I no doubt he would have eventually whined to let me know he was forgotten.....but they know they must be quiet to gain freedom...so not a peep. Rocky on the other hand did all he could to get me to let Bailey out of the crate. The addition of Bailey to the pack has made Rocky such a happy Golden....someone to play with....and someone to annoy....non stop.
He has helped me to raise Bailey....in both good and bad ways ;-)



Funny how they know it is time for a walk....Bailey loves going out...even if you just take him to the mailbox, it's an adventure. I start our walks pretty much the same....with a purpose to burn off a little bit of energy...and a little bit of training. I am so saddened at the timing
with which my hand is bothering me....he is missing out on working around other dogs, people....being socialized....It annoys me to no end to have to admit I just cannot control him with the one hand. Oh....and they do so know when you are weak, both physically and mentally.
This in no way makes him a bad dog, just a normal six months old.

The beginning of our walk was normal....heel, sits, downs....a few stays....walking at a faster pace, then slower pace....once some energy was expelled we start walking the neighborhood, hoping to not encounter any loose dogs, and if so....that they are indeed friendly. I walk with a walking stick, and attached to my hip a can of citronella spray...both of which have been used in the past....I would prefer to not have the need to reach for either.
As we walk I can not help but chuckle for it has been a few days that we have had a good walk and everything....sights, sounds....smells,,,all seemed new to Bailey. Our pace is now slower as we were taking in our surroundings....there is a corner house in our neighborhood and there are multiple dogs always out in the yard, chain link fence. They bark and bark and today I notice Bailey's fur hackle up...give a look in their direction. I pause and make him pay attention to me....look in the direction of the other dogs....if they seemed agitated, or were growling and barking....running along the fence we would continue along our way so that we not cause any trouble within their pack. They were quieting down so I took the moment to work with Bailey....put him in a sit, down....and we then resumed our walk and once again my thoughts were on the fact he was six months old. Since the majority of dogs that have shared their lives with me were rescues....I did not know how old they were....guessing the age....not knowing a birth date. I will celebrate the fact he is six months, acknowledge, pay attention to his behavior for a six month of male Golden....whew so much energy....oh...and the trouble they can get into if your not paying attention....or for that matter acknowledge their age and the puppy development stages. So, at six months the hormones are kicking in....yes....for all those that are going to be concerned over the fact that Bailey is an intact puppy. He will indeed be neutered in time. At six months he is so very easily excited....I must say he does get easily over stimulated and while I would prefer for him to be a tad bit calmer we will work though this stage. It is the enthusiasm at this age that I so adore...and the fact that they are truly sponges soaking up all that goes on in their pack and in their environment. So yes, I will indeed acknowledge the fact he is six months old...we will celebrate with an extra game of fetch, just he and I...then play time with the pack...a pretty great six month old celebration ;-)

Celebrating...Six Months...

Hardly!
While the majority of folks dislike Monday mornings....I love them. Gone are the weekend warriors that get up so early to do their weekend chores. Gone are the sounds of the lawn mowers, chain saws and dare I say it....screaming children ;-) I can sit and have my cup of tea in total peace and quiet....just the sounds of the birds coming and going at the feeders.


With the much welcomed spring like weather in the Atlanta area this past weekend we found ourselves at one of the local lakes Sunday afternoon. Pretty crowded...lots of children running around, folks out and about walking their dogs. It was Baileys very first time at the lake....yes indeed, a bit too much over stimulation ;-) Neither he or Rocky showed much interest in the ducks....or water. They are indeed Golden Retrievers however they do not seem to have much drive in the retriever department....nor are they water dogs.

The ducks were indeed safe, they did not show much interest with them, however I would imagine if they actually thought they could catch up to one they would give it a go. As this was a public lake, and with Bailey not yet trained they remained on leash!

Monday Morning Blues...

Irish? No worries if your not, for on St. Patrick's Day we are all Irish for the day!
Drink your morning coffee in style, mugs and tee shirt sold on Zazzle.

Irish for the day...

March comes in like a Lion...

I am a dog person.
My home has never been without muddy paw prints, fur in unwanted places....dog toys, bones scattered about. The expression"My Life has gone to the dogs" is something I can relate to. Spending time with my furry friends is not a chore, but rather something to be enjoyed. Working as a team, learning to share our space with one another, working on Dog Obedience  and just hanging out, playing fetch or just simply taking in the sights sounds...all enjoyable. While I would be the very first one to tell you that I am the "Big Dog" (pack leader) it is give and take for clearly they have me so very well trained as well ;-)

So on this rainy afternoon in Atlanta the leashes and collars are set out and ready to be placed on the dogs, that is of course if there is a break in the rain.
The dogs are ready, willing and able, though if you walked into my home at this moment you would find four dogs napping. Just the slightest movement from me, any hint of a walk or play and you will see four dogs are up and on the move at lightening speed.
Of course, if the weather does not co-operate...no worries. A day of naps, relaxing and a few inside games (try hide n seek....I dare you), toys to chew, a dog or two groomed and life is good.
Content and happy in the moment...
Indeed, words to live by. If we all just sat back for a moment...made the time to spend with furry friends we could learn a thing or two ;-)

Share your rainy day dog activities with us!

Rainy day dog activities...

If you take a very close look you will see a pack of dirty dogs, especially the Goldens (look at the puppies neck....dog spit and red clay...our very first outing was a bit too much fun for the Goldens and they just had to wrestle, roll in the GA red clay. Now, when I had red dogs you would just brush the dirt out of their coats, the lighter Goldens, well they start to get a red hue...and unnatural red hue at that. Depending on our weather for the next few days all will be getting groomed and bathed.



Bailey is indeed growing into his paws...and yes indeed, almost five months old he woke up and has the attention span of a nat ;-) Since I am still recovering from being ill....while all received daily play and training ...after days of not leaving the house we are starting over. For the world out front is once again new to him....the birds, pine cones, soo much to see, sniff, taste....leash training and daily walks and training have resumed....at the beginning.

Just as all puppies should be....a bit of a brat....notice the toy below with the tag still on it....he just could not wait to have it. Please, do not worry....after showing off to all, he pranced over to me and the tag was removed.

Dirty Dogs...

On this very chilly morning I find myself sitting at my PC...coughing still. You probably have experienced such a cough, after days of coughing you dread just even the thought of coughing for your ribs, and internal organs hurt when you do so.

At a cool 28 degrees the pack and I were out side for our early morning play....well ok they played and I pretty much stood in place doing a little cold weather dance trying to keep warm...deciding on just one shot for todays post...and of course the two are playing tug. That poor stuffed toy does not stand a chance.

As I watched the pack do their thing I could not help but smile and have a daja vu moment....over the years I have stood, early... chilly morning...thinking of the warm cup of tea inside just waiting for me to wrap my cold hands around the cup...and take a few sip. The sounds of the birds, the dogs playing....it has been many years....and a few dogs....the memories of those dogs that shared their lives with me....oh what very special dogs each is...was!

Over the years I have read about those that have had one special dog. A dog that was so loved...and that loved so much....a Heart Dog. I have always smiled when reading such a thing....for I so understand the sentiment...

For a brief moment I stood trying to think to that one special dog and all I can tell you is that the faces that appear in my minds eye....all of my beloved furry friends. Bogie....oh my what a pain in the butt he could be...when he was sweet....he was oh so sweet. Lovely Jas, what wonderful soft, fuzzy fur....yes indeed....my heart dog for sure. Serious Montana....who at the sight of a ball would just light up with excitement and anticipation that you will indeed be tossing it for him to fetch. Bear, the white GS that stole our hearts and slept at the front door, protecting his pack....Tasha....beautiful blue eyed tash, so very independent but yet, put your hand under a blanket and move it around and just watch her, like a puppy try to get it. Mikey the Golden...what a funny sense of humor he had. Sparkie the Pit Bull....sweet funny Sparkie who could just melt my heart with just a look in my direction.... and of course My Phoenix....hyper, oh so very hyper Phoenix....the fun we shared together.

I look to the dogs I share my life with currently and indeed, those same feelings and emotions....I adore each one.

Each having a different personality, sense of humor...I love each for who they are. Bailey....now he has been with us the least amount of time....really everyone loves a puppy. I can think back during the short time he has been a pack member and recall the exact moment he became one of my Heart Dogs....I had him in my lap and he was nipping at my hands and I was "trying" to teach him to be gentle. He finally looked up at me and barked....yep, a Woof. I smiled and hugged him....now indeed not many would find it endearing...but at that moment I knew my heart was his.

So, No....I have not had one special Heart Dog...I have been so fortunate that I have had a pack of Heart Dogs ;-)

Pack of Heart Dogs...