Saturday at the Herding Trial

Lowri - The judge said I was AWESOME!  TM did too!  I was much more controlled and was a very good dog.  I did annoy the big wether, who started stomping at me and turning to face me and shaking his head.  TM said I caused it (by being too pushy), so I could fix it.  I did <VBG>  I would charge up at him and demand that he MOVE.  He did <G>  I did a hold at the exhaust pen and then moved the sheep into the pen.  TM said I was awesome.  Man, did that sound good!

Chase - I got my very first HX leg!  TM did a lot of yelling, but she said I did listen to her where it counted.  I have to admit that I lifted my leg in the arena - twice.  TM was NOT happy about that!  Ohhhh, she yelled at me!  What can I say, I swear there was a girl there that wanted me.  What was I supposed to do?

I also have to say that today I beat Kearney on sheep!  That doesn't happen often, but I Q'ed and he didn't.  I was the good dog!

Kearney - I would have qualified except TM didn't need me too.  I had the high score in Advanced from my duck run.  That gave me my second 1st place win and four more points.  When I get four more, I will be a dual champion.

I was awesome on ducks.  I worked hard for TM and actually got a cross drive.   I was also the only one to get the ducks up the middle and around the cone.

Tomorrow is another day.  We will try hard again.  Well, Lowri won't, she was only entered today.  But, I will say that the brat did a very nice job on her sheep!

Herding Trials This Weekend

Kearney - We will be leaving tomorrow afternoon (Friday) for the herding trials in Georgia.  I am going to work sheep and ducks...

Lowri - TM said I was AWESOME on ducks today!  She said I am turning into a really good duck dog.  I had a lot of fun.  I listened when she told me to steady.  I stopped when TM told me to.  I was very good.

Kearney - May I continue?

Lowri - Oh, sure.  No problem.

Kearney - Chase is going to work on Advanced sheep, and Lowri will get to work in PT again.

Lowri - PT???  I already have that title!  What was TM thinking?  I thought I would be going at the trial level.  Are you sure, Kear?

Kearney - Yes, I'm sure.  TM wants you to have some more ring experience before we get ready for Nationals.  She wants to see if you will stay off the stock and actually stop when she asks you too.  She says you have been progressing really well.  This is just an opportunity for you to show off what you know.

Anyway, we leave tomorrow afternoon, as soon as TM is done with work.  She has packed up and is ready to go.  I can't wait!  I am going to try really hard to get more Herding Championship points.  TM is counting on me.

Like Father, Like Daughter

TM - Too fun!  Cheryl caught both at almost exactly the same stride.  Top is Daddy Chase.  Bottom is
little Lowri.

Day After Christmas

Kearney - We had a great day today.  I got to help TM load four lambs.  Two went home with MC and two went to the butcher.  I had to work hard to make them come with TM.  It was fun <G>.

TM also loaded up the bull to go to the butcher.  Couldn't happen to a better cow.  Wouldn't hurt my feelings if the cow had been loaded up too.  One down, one to go.

Chase got to herd out in the big field.  TM has been doing stuff with him to make him think about what he is doing.  She hopes he will still be thinking at the trials this next weekend.

My sister, Treasure, got to herd in the round pen.  She was working the three young wethers/rams.  She was very excited.  It was funny to hear her high pitched yip every time her front feet hit the ground.  TM told her she was EXCELLENT.

Lowri - I didn't get to herd as I had had a bath on Christmas.  TM didn't want me to get all muddy.  Kearney had a bath too and HE got to get in the mud up to his elbows!  He was pretty solid mud on his lower half.  I wanted to get muddy too!

Instead, TM and MC took pictures of me.  While I love having my picture taken, I REALLY love getting muddy.  Anyway, here are two pictures they took.

New Game!

Lowri - I had the BEST time today!!  We went to MC's house for Christmas.  MC had a new camera.  It can take LOTS of pictures every second.  We went across the street to the manicured field belonging to MC's neighbor.  It was the most amazing place.  The grass grew liver treats!  TM walked me over and then put on my new harness.  She kept saying new words, "Do you want to track?"  Well, how would I know, I had never done it before.

Wow!!  It was amazing.  We got to this place where TM had stood.  I could tell, because it smelled just like her.  I dropped my nose to check it out, and LIVER sprouted!  After I picked up a couple of pieces, I started forward, smelling where TM had gone.  More liver!  TM just stood there and let me go ahead.  I LIKE this new game!  Then I found where TM dropped her phone.  I knew she was clumsy, but I didn't realize she was losing things.  I will start paying attention, so I can help her.  Both TM and MC heaped praise on me.  Food and praise, I LOVE this new game.

Kearney - I didn't get to play the new game this time, but I did get to help TM catch and load the ram lamb.  When he didn't move, I grabbed him and told him to go.  Boy, did he <VBG>  TM had a halter on the lamb.  It was a good thing.  She was able to control his head while he leaped up in the air and tried to run.  I helped TM a lot!  MC also helped.

When TM was ready to leave, she discovered she had a flat tire.  MC was a big help.  They changed the tire to the baby spare tire and then MC took TM to WalMart to get a new one.  Poor TM, she didn't have road hazard coverage.  When they got back, MC helped her change the tire again to put on the new one.  TM finally got to leave for PR's place.  She got there while it was still light.  I got to help her put the lamb in the round pen.  He is going to market on Monday!

TM - Merry Christmas!  I hope your day is blessed.

Dora Video

Kearney - TM had so much fun making Lowri's movie, that she went ahead and made one in Dora's memory.  Of course, it was a no-brainer as to the music. She had to share it as it was so upbeat.




Dora's stats are: RWB at the 2005 CWCCA Nationals, Group placing, TM's first Herding Excellent dog, the first (and currently only) Herding Champion Cardigan bitch, ditto for Dual Champion Cardigan bitch. All by the time she was six, when TM tragically lost her to lymphoma. Bred by Kathy Harper of Kollage Cardigans.

Lowri - I guess I have my work cut out for me!  I have a lot to accomplish.  Dora had LOTS of letters!

Herding - We got to go Herding!

Kearney - TM had a few minutes tonight, so she took us herding.  I got to get the ducks out.  I did a VERY good job of that, requiring little to no commands from TM.  Then I took them around and across the yard several times.  TM threw her hands in the air and said "That'll do."  She was very happy with me.

Lowri - Then I got to work the ducks.  I am very fast and I tried to make them move like the sheep.  That didn't work well, so TM started telling me what to do.  She likes me to "stop."  That isn't much fun, but then I can run to get around the ducks.  I drove them around the yard too.  It was great.

Tomorrow, TM is taking us to Mama Cheryl's place.  We are going to exchange Christmas gifts.  Then TM is loading up the ram lamb and taking him to Papa Ron's place.  I hope I get to help, but I suspect it will be Kearney.  TM has promised to get some pictures of us dressed up in the gift Mama Penni sent us.  I can't wait.  I hear there will be cookies involved!

Rain and Roofs

Kearney - TM is still struggling with the respiratory flu.  She is working this week, but doesn't have lots of energy other than that.  Take today, for instance.  TM had several hours in the morning that she could have used productively.  I could have gone herding!  But, no, she sat around and didn't do much of anything.  We get fed, some scritches but that is it.  Doesn't she realize that the herding trial is just 10 days from now?

Lowri - TM gave me a bath the other day so she and MC could take some good pictures of me.  Then it rained.  What can I say, Kearney and I HAD to play "Roll Lowri in the Mud."  TM looked at me this morning and just sighed.  I don't get it, she leaves us outside to entertain ourselves, and then is disappointed when I come in muddy.  All I can say is that I had FUN getting this way <G>

Kearney - The insurance company decided TM's roof was damaged by the spring storms.  That is really good news.  It means that TM doesn't have to spend all my trialing money on the roof.  She can spend it on us!  Now TM just has to get the guys out here to replace the roof when she isn't working - and when it isn't raining!   Since it is going to rain all the time between now and June, I am not sure how she is going to do that.

Lowri - I saw TM on the computer today.  She was looking at dogs show for me to go to.  I am going to really enjoy myself this next year!  She and MC say I am special.  I knew that <G>

Feeling Better, Finally

Kearney - TM has been sick for over a week.

Lowri - While we like it that she lost her voice for three whole days <vbg>, we are exhausted from taking care of her.

Kearney - Tonight, PR is coming over to take over.  We should finally get some sleep!

Movie Star - For Real

Lowri - Once again, I am a movie star!  I would like to thank Miss Betty Moore Smith for helping TM - a LOT - in getting this video to play.

Movie Star

Lowri - I am a movie star!  I have my own video, complete with music and credits.

I must thank Tommy's mom, Betty Moore Smith, for being TM's inspiration!  Without her, TM would have never tried to put this together.  I would also like to thank MP for letting me come to live with TM; MC for her fabulous photography skills; PR for the scritches; Nicky for the marvelous suggestions for being a scamp; and, of course, G'ma Janet for initiating everything.

Kearney - Oh, geez...

TM - Well, I obviously screwed it up.  Sorry - no video.

Change of Plans

Kearney - TM packed up last night and was ready to jump in the car this morning for the drive.  Her head started hurting and she was very stuffy.  After she went to bed she realized that she just had to be smart about it.  She cancelled the trip.  Since she has to work for a living, she knew she needed to rest up and just get better.  I guess we will be herding at PR's place tomorrow.

Lowri - I still get to go see MC and the baybees.  I just don't get to stay there.  TM wants some more pictures of me.  Only, I have to get a bath first.  Boo!  It has been raining and Kear and I have been playing Roll Lowri in the Mud.  It is still the BEST game <G>

Food Friday

Kearney - TM is finally feeling better.  She actually worked on a couple of clients, had an eye exam and...

Lowri - MADE US SOME FOOD!  Because it is raining out, we got to stay in the house, under TM's feet.  I was drooling cause it smelled so good.  I was very good and tried to not bother TM, but when she was scraping the bottom of the bowl, I KNEW it was time for me to help clean up.  I hovered!  Sure enough, TM put the bowl on the floor for me to clean up.  Kear tried to help, but there wasn't room for two of us in the bowl.  TM gave him some other stuff to clean.  I did a very good job on my stuff.

Kearney - TM actually just gave me some of the food in my bowl <G>  She didn't want me to feel left out.

Tomorrow, we are going to Georgia to practice herding.

Lowri - I am not going, Kear.  I am going to MC's to start training my siblings.  I am going to teach them all sorts of good things!  It is a very important job.  I LOVE them.

Kearney - As I was saying, Chase and I are going to Georgia for herding lessons.  Chase is going to have to work hard.  TM is taking him so he will learn that when we go to a new place, he still has to work.  It isn't all fun and games.  He thinks he can get away with stuff at a trial, but she is going to try and fix that idea for him.  I get to go, so I can explore the arena and the people.  Once I do that, I am not nearly as big a chicken.

TM talked to the motel people and because we are coming back in two weeks, he isn't even going to charge her for bringing two dogs.  That was very nice of him! <whispering> Lowri is actually staying with MC to keep the motel people happy with us.  Don't tell her that.  It is important that she thinks she is special!

Misses Kathy and Ann Are Journeying Home

Kearney - Miss Kathy and Miss Ann just stopped in to visit with us on their way back to Albuquerque, NM.  They have spent this week sight-seeing in the Washington D.C. area.  Today, they picked up their Rottie girl - the main reason for the trip.

Lowri - Holy Cow!  Miss Luna is this big, coal black dog.  Miss Kathy speaks to her in a sweet voice and suddenly all you see is teeth.  Miss Kathy says that Luna is grinning.  I tried to get close to see the teeth, but no one would let me get that close.  I snuck in behind her a couple of times, but Miss Luna errrr'ed at me.  I got LOCKED in my crate!  It is MY house, and I got locked up!  She didn't errrr at Kear.  Maybe because he wasn't sneaking up on her?

Kearney - Miss Luna was visiting in Virginia for the past eight months.  She didn't settle on her first breeding, so they waited until she was bred again, and then they went to get her.   Miss Kathy came on the trip because she missed her girl.  Miss Ann is going to whelp out Luna and then return her to Miss Kathy.

Lowri - All I can say is "What big teeth you have, Miss Luna!"

Kearney - Miss Luna's name is actually GCH CH Baar's Luna De Miel V Woodrott CD RA HT.  She is a VERY pretty girl.

Lowri - Oh no!  She has more letters than me, too.  I NEED more letters!  Maybe if I tried showing all my teeth in a "grin", I could get more letters?

Kearney - <snicker>  You want to hear about letters, Lowri?  Miss Kathy sent TM Miss Luna's name and her other Rottie's name.  They are:
 
"Gabriel" Multi V1, AKC DC, UKC/UCI Int'l CH, Can OTCH BAAR's Heaven Sent, UDX, ASCA/UKC CDX, RAE, Can RE, ASCA RAX, HSAc, HXAds, HSBd, STDs, OTDcd, CI, CGC, TT, VX, 2009 ARC National Herding High in Trial, ARC Bronze Producer 
"Luna" 2009 & 2011 ARC Select, BISS, Am/Can BOSS, Am/Can CH, GCH BAAR's Luna de Miel v Woodrott, AKC/CKC/ASCA CD, RA, ASCA RAX, Can RN, HT, CGC 

 Lowri - <grumble>  Can you say "overachievers?"

Wednesday - Not Thursday

Kearney - Poor TM.  She has been really sick.  I have never seen her this bad, but I am only 2 1/2.  She has been sitting on the sofa in the sitting room since Monday.  All she does is cough and blow her nose.  She has cancelled four days of clients.  I am not sure she has EVER done that before.

Lowri - I cuddled with her on the sofa all night last night.  Kear was laying at her feet.  She had a rough night.  She couldn't take more medicine until 3:00 AM.  She had to wait until 4:00 AM to take the cough stuff .  She has been pretty sorry.

Kearney - TM is feeling a little better today.  She even took a shower this morning.

Lowri - Thank God! 

Kearney - Lowri! 

Lowri - I'm just saying...

My sister, Sally, and my Mama, Scout, are in Orlando.  TM waited and waited to hear how they did this morning.  Finally, G'ma Janet reported that she didn't make it over in time to watch the Cardis show (Mick won BOB and Libby went BOS).  TM finally realized that today was only Wednesday.  Sally doesn't show until tomorrow.

Birthday!

Lowri - It's my birthday!   I am ONE YEAR OLD today.  I am planning on getting cake and ice cream and cookies and presents!  I am so excited!  Oh yes, I have to say Happy Birthday to Abby and Ally and Nicky and David and Tommy and Ginger and Sally!  If you want to come over, I will share my ice cream with you.

Kearney - Yeah, right.  She won't even share with me!

I am seven weeks old.  TM fell in love with me.

Lowri - But Kear, it isn't your birthday.  It is mine.  Mine, mine mine.  It is all about ME!!!  Here are some pictures of me growing up. 

I am three months old and I am making the sheepies mind!

These are bad duckies - or maybe it is me that is bad.

At the Nationals.  Everyone tried to steal me.

My first dog show

I can move.

PUPPIES!

In order the pups are Cuba, Congo, Chile, Cammie, and China

Lowri - I FINALLY got to see my siblings!  MC brought them up to PR's place yesterday so TM's sister, Miss Kathy, could temperament test them.  Kear and I got to romp with them before Miss Kathy and her friend, Miss Ann, drove in.  They came from Albookerkey, New Mexico.  That is where my Daddy is from.  Miss Kathy flew there from Denver so she could drive out with Miss Ann.

Popping wheelies

Anyway, my siblings and I had the best time.  Kearney was playing with them too.  Miss Daisy, the Peeking knees, thought they were aliens, so she stayed upstairs.  MC took several pictures of us playing.  We had the BEST time!

Afterwards, everyone had supper - well all the humans did.  I didn't get a single bite!  I am sure Miss Ann could have been conned into feeding me, but TM was watching like a hawk.  After supper, we got locked up in jail and MC brought in the puppies one at a time.  Miss Kathy tested them and determined that they all have temperament.  I am not sure how that works, but TM and MC tested my litter for G'ma Janet when we were seven weeks old.  Apparently, the tester does a bunch of things and decides if we will be good dogs or not.  The Fab Five will all be good dogs as long as their people don't mess too much with their minds. 

Kearney - I had a long talk with Chile.  Her real name will be Glitter.  It will actually be Bluefox's Liquid Gold, but everyone will call her Glitter.  I told her she was going to be in a great home with MC.  She might even get to herd.

TM had her eyes fixed

Kearney - TM had her eyes fixed yesterday.  We had to stay outside in the kennel.  PR finally came and rescued us.  TM just sat like a lump in her chair with her eyes closed - all afternoon and evening.  She didn't want any of us on her lap - we were dusty.  She is doing better today. The doctor checked her out and said she was very good.  Because she followed directions exactly, her eyeballs look really good.  She is even legal to drive.

Lowri - I was very disappointed that TM didn't look like a pirate.  No eye patches!  She has to wear dark glasses inside and out for two days and then outside for a week.  At night she has to wear eye shields that are taped on.  They aren't pirate patches either as they are clear plastic.  Boo.  No fun teasing her at all.

I did want to sit on her lap last night, but she wouldn't let me.  She said I was too dirty.  Daisy, the peeking knees, got to sit on her.  Double BOO!

Oh well, I am glad she is feeling better.  And, MC, I didn't get to do anything bad, cause PR was watching me.  I think TM told him to watch out for my sneaky self.

A New TM

Kearney - TM is going under the knife tomorrow.  When she comes home, she will look different.

Lowri - She is going to look like a pirate - if pirates wear TWO eye patches <giggle-snort>

Kearney - TM is having Lasik surgery in the morning.  By early afternoon, she should be able to see without glasses.  Of course, she has to wear the eye patches for the first day or so.  I have never seen her without glasses.  She use to wear contacts, but that was several years ago.   The only bad part is we don't get to go herding this weekend.

Lowri - WHAT!  No herding?  We get a pirate, and don't get to herd???  I don't think this is that a good a trade.

Best of Days

Lowri - We had the best day yesterday!  It was great.  First, Cardi Claus came and we got new treats and a new toy each - even if the Grinch only gave us ONE crumpet each.  We had a great time chewing on the toys.  The nylabone Kong has knobbies all over it.  That feels great in my mouth.

Then, to finish the BEST DAY EVER, TM made us dogfood!  I was the champion cleaner-upper.  YUM!  She made about 25 containers of food for us, plus two FULL containers of ground up mix for the next time.  Because there was still leftover stuff, Kearney got that.  I let him have it to himself, because I was still cleaning up the big pot.  TM says I am the best cleaner-upper ever!

Today, TM split a cow tail between us.  She says it looks a lot like ox tail that you would put in soup.  It was great.  Man, was I stuffed afterwards!

Cardi Claus Arrived!

Kearney - Norman, Diamond and their human, Carol Richardson, were our Cardi Claus.  WOW!  They are AWESOME!  We got treats and Corgi Crumpets and two nylabone toys.  TM got a silly Beagle ornament of someone called Snoopy.  He has a bird friend, Woodstock.  TM LOVES it.  Snoopy is one of her all time favorites.  A BEAGLE???  Oh well, no accounting for taste.  She says it is a Hallmark keepsake.  I say, sooo?  It's a beagle, for crying out loud.

TM got another ornament that she got all sniffly over.  It is a white star with a picture of me and Lowri on it.  TM doesn't know how Miss Carol did that, but she LOVES it.  At least it isn't another beagle!

Lowri - The one measly Corgi Crumpet that TM let us have was REALLY good.  I licked my bowl clean of all the crumbs.  Cardi Claus needs to talk to TM about being such a grinch!  TM did give us the nylabones.  They are AWESOME!  We are such lucky dogs!!!  Thank you, Norman, Diamond and Miss Carol!!!  (Didn't I meet Norman a loooong time ago at the puppy party when I was a baby?  He was very handsome then.)

Sunday Herding

Lowri - Whoo-hoo!  We got to go herding today.  MC came up and brought Miss Treasure with her.  TM used both Kearney and my Daddy to bring in four of the big mamas for me and Miss Treasure.  My Daddy got to work first.  He was walking the big mamas around the round pen.  TM was having him be quiet and steady.  Then MC drove up.  My Daddy wouldn't herd at all.  He knew the sound of that car, and he knew MC was here to get him.  FINALLY, TM got him to work again.  He was very distracted, but eventually got his head back in the game.  When they were done, TM had him do an outrun to get the lambs.  He did a beautiful wide outrun.  TM was very pleased with him.

Miss Treasure got to go next.  It had been about eight weeks since she got to work sheep.  She had babies in the mean time.  I didn't want to mention it to her, but she looked a little gross with all those dangly things.  She  went out and did a FABULOUS job.  MC and TM were very proud of her.  She was actually better than she was before the break.  TM is going to have her in Started at the Nationals.  Miss Treasure is doing a good job.

FINALLY, it was my turn.  TM took me into the round pen with the big mamas.  I held them to TM and kept them moving for her.  When I would push them a little too hard, TM would stop.  That reminded me that I had to go up front and stop the sheep.  TM then started walking straight across the round pen.  I had to keep the big mamas right with her.  It was great fun!  MC told TM that it was a hoot to watch me.  I would bounce to move the sheep and bounce to stop them.  I even got to put them back in the field with the cows.  I love my job!

Kearney - I got to work last.  I did a beautiful outrun and brought the lambs over to TM.  As I went around her, I realized someone else was in the field with us.  I didn't want to go near them, but TM made me.  She stopped me right next to the person and had them speak to me.  I was SO embarrassed when I realized it was MC!  I mean, really, you would have thought I would have figured that out.  TM had me move the lambs all over the field.  I kept one ear on MC as she moved around taking pictures.  At least I didn't embarrass myself again.

TM got Chase back out to put the big mamas back into the big field.  I was very grateful she didn't use me.  The cows are just SO big!

We got put into our crates while TM and PR did some more fence work.  They planted six posts and cemented them in.  TM moved some fence panels and created a pen.  They are going to use it to catch and load the bull to take him to the butcher.  I can't wait!  Not only will he be GONE, but he will be tasty too <G>

Puppies and Herding

Lowri - We went to MC's place last night to see the puppies.  TM didn't even let us go in the house.  We didn't get to see the puppies.  That is so wrong!  TM said the puppies are very, very cute!  SHE got to play with them, but I didn't even get to come in the house.  So not fair!  We got even though, we did the vacuum cleaner nose on TM's clothes when we got to PR's.  TM hates that <G>   I still want to see the puppies.  I want to play with them.

Kearney - While TM was at MC's she got Chase.  He came home with us to PR's.  Turned out that was a good thing.  This morning while TM was setting up stock to herd, Chase got to move the sheep through the cow field.  TM got me out first.  I was scared I was going to have to do it, so I jumped back in my crate.  Note to self - that does NOT make TM happy.  She came back and got me and expressed her displeasure at me ignoring her.  We went out to the big field and brought the big mama sheep into the cow field.  Then, to my surprise, TM took me out around the cow field.  For once, I was GLAD to have Chase do my job. 

Chase went out into the cow field and picked up the big mamas and brought them into the round pen.  Then he helped TM sort them.  He drove the ones TM didn't want back out to the big field.  Chase also worked the crazy lambs.  TM had him walking the lambs around the field.  He did a pretty good job with them.

Lowri - I got to work the big mamas in the round pen.  TM wanted me to start with them and just take the edge off them because they haven't been worked in a while.  I was a very good girl!

When TM was done herding, we got locked up.  She and PR went out and dug some post holes.  Then they drove to town and bought some stuff to build a shelter over the sheep feeder.  They also bought a BUNCH of gizzards and hearts for us.  Yum!

Cardi Claus and PRA

Lowri - We shipped out our Cardi Claus gift today!  I tried to help TM pick out the toys to send, but she didn't want my slobber on the gift.  AS IF I SLOBBER!  I'm a delicate girl puppy.  We do NOT slobber.  We drool, mouth, and lick <G>   Anyway, TM got the gift all wrapped.  The little ornament was very cute.  Each dog in our Cardi Claus family got a toy.  I hope they like them.  I wanted to give them a test play, but TM was being bossy.

Kearney - In TM's e- mail today, she got a good gift.  VetNostic Laboratories sent word that Lowri is PRA Clear.  She also got a copy of the certificate.  We knew Lowri was line-cleared, but TM wanted her tested too.  So, Lowri now has another set of letters.  They don't go with her name, but are in her file.

Lowri - LETTERS?  I have more LETTERS???  What are they?

Kearney - You're PRA (clear).  That means you won't go blind and neither will any of your puppies - at least not from PRA.

Lowri - I have more letters, I have more letters!  Do I have more letters than you, Kear?  Do you have these new letters too?

Kearney - I have those letters too.  And, No, you don't have more letters than me.  I have lots and lots of herding letters  <snicker> You're going to have to work really, really hard to catch up.

Lowri is Growing Up

Kearney - Our little Lowri is growing up.  I would say that with fondness except she is channeling her inner bitch.  She has started doing dominance moves and our play fighting has taken on a more serious tone of voice.  I don't care, I am a happy, easy going boy, but sheesh!  She is taking this queen bitch role seriously.  Fortunately for her, she hasn't tried to challenge TM.  That would not work out well for our little Lowri.

Lowri - I am just making sure you know that when we play the new food game, that it is MINE!  All MINE!  TM may lock me in a crate, but it is still MINE.

I had the best time playing with the game tonight.  I am starting to get how to work it.  TM has been putting in the little knobs and the whole toy has treats hidden everywhere.  I LOVE this game.  TM gives me hints, but I know if I keep working at it, I will get all the treats.  MC really got us a good present!



TM put in this picture of me and my Daddy at the Nationals in Houston.  She is starting to get excited about going to Ohio - and that is still MONTHS away.  (Those are MC's toes <giggle>)

Sad Stuff

Kearney - TM just found out that Miss Laura's Star has lymphoma.  She has been hoping and praying that it wouldn't be that.  It just isn't fair that some people, like TM and Miss Laura, have to go through this TWICE!!!  On top of that, Miss Laura's German Shepherd, Maggie, is not doing well.  Maggie is 12.  Miss Laura shouldn't have to bear this much all at once.  TM has been crying for her.

Lowri -  Miss Laura has been snuggling with Star and Maggie.  I know they feel her love!  We may be dogs, but we can tell when our people love us.  It is our hope that Miss Laura can feel the love and caring from all her friends - I am not sure if humans can feel long distance love.  I know Star and Maggie do. 

New Tires and herding

Kearney - Well, we had some excitement on the way back to TM's place.  TM was supposed to meet with MC to do the hand off with Chase.  TM was 16 miles from the meeting place, when all of a sudden there was bad shaking and THUMP, THUMP, THUMP.  TM safely navigated to the side of the interstate.  She got out and, sure enough, we had a flat tire.  TM sent up some thanks to God, because the car was mostly empty.  She could get to all the tools she needed.  If it had happened on the way to PR's, I am sure she would have said some different words <G>

She got the spare out and was pleased that it had lots of air in it.  Then she got the book out to tell her where to put the jack.  Right then, a VERY nice family stopped and lent us their daddy to finish the job for TM.  She asked if she could pay him and he said "No Thanks."  He handed her a little booklet talking about God.  TM thanked him and thought it was very nice that he knew her Father too.  Just as they drove off, MC showed up.  TM had called her to tell her she had problems.   MC kindly came clear up to meet her.  They were VERY, VERY careful when they moved Chase to MC's car.   This morning TM went and bought new tires.

Yesterday morning we got to go herding.  Chase went first.  We worked in the pen with the crazy lambs.  Funny how they aren't very crazy any more.  TM worked with Chase on being quiet and patient.  She also let him work fast a few times just to keep his speed there.  She told Chaseman that he was a VERY GOOD BOY.  He liked that a lot. 

Then I got to work.  The cows were nearby in the other field, but I pretty much ignored them.  That made TM very happy.  I walked the lambs around and around the field.  TM likes how I have been working.  She still wishes I wasn't a chicken, but really!  Have you see the SIZE of those cows!!!

Lowri - I got to go last, because I am best of all.

Kearney - (actually, she went last because the rain was threatening and Lowri could skip a workout if necessary).

Lowri - AS I SAID, I got to go last, because I am the best of all!  TM let me work the crazy lambs too.  They are a lot crazier when I am in the field.  I am sure it is because they know I am very fast and can keep bringing them back to TM.  Anyway, TM let me work them.  For some reason, they kept splitting up.  That's fun (I call it "bowling for lambs").  TM finally got after me because I did a little too much bowling.  We worked more on TM just walking around and me making the lambs stay right with her.  That is boring, but still, I can cause some splits.  TM told me I was a good boy - and then realized I was a good GIRL!  I got some scritches.

Birthdays and Herding

Kearney - Today is TM's birthday.  She is 8 years old or in hexadecimal she is 38 (TM was a software engineer before I met her).  MP sent TM a book on Tracking.  I can't wait until we get started on that!  Gee, for TM's birthday, Lowri and I really lucked out - a food toy from MC and a tracking book from MP.  TM bought herself an Australian Duster to wear at the herding trials.

We have had a really good day.  While she slept in, PR let us out and then fed.  When she got up, she and PR made room for the new freezer.  They are going to put the bull in it.  I say it couldn't happen to a better cow! We herded and then PR fixed steaks for dinner.  We didn't get any of the yummy stuff - Aidan gets the leftovers for breakfast.

When we were herding, Chase went first.  TM opened up the gate between the lambs field and the field with the obstacles.  As long as Chase did what TM asked for, the lambs stayed in the little field.  When he was wrong, the lambs went into the big field.  TM kept things slow and quiet.  Once Chase had lost the lambs a couple of times, he got much better at working further out from the lambs.

TM called MP to let her know how Chase did.  They talked long enough for the lambs to rest up.  Then I got to work.  TM made me work in the small field.  I kept the lambs from escaping to the big field, but TM made me work near the stupid cows.  I did outruns near them and TM made me hold stops near them.  I held myself together and TM said I did a really good job.

Lowri - Then it was MY turn!  I had a wonderful time <G>  TM left the gate open and I lost the lambs into the big field - a bunch of times.  I raced out after them and brought them back.  I ran very, very fast!  After I did it a couple of times, it occurred to me that if I listened to TM, I wouldn't have to work quite so hard.  I started listening, and then everything worked much better.  We did a lot of trips around the field with TM just walking while I held the lambs to her.  It was fun!

Thanksgiving - The Day After

Kearney - Well, we went to Papa Ron's for Thanksgiving.  His son came to join us for dinner.  Adam said I was VERY well behaved.  I wasn't jumping on him like others I could mention (Lowri, Aidan and Daisy)!  Oops, I did mention...

TM took us out and we got to herd.  I started to avoid the outrun (TM said "NO. Bad Dog").  She called me back and sent me again.  When I did it right, she called after me that I was a very good boy.  I like making TM happy.  I drove the crazy lambs at a walk completely around the field and back.  TM was watching me to make sure I didn't hurry forward to stop their progress.  I had a good time.

Lowri - We got GIBLETS for breakfast, lots and lots of gizzards and hearts.  TM loves us!  YUMMY!!!  Thor is with us in town today.  TM brought him so he could get his rabies shot.  She gave him some giblets too.  I was able to snatch some away from him.  It was yummy <G>  I tried to grab some of Kearney's too, but TM caught me and carried me into the house.  I can't help it if they eat slower than I do!


Kearney - Lowri, tell about your herding.

Lowri - yum, Thanksgiving food sure is good.

Kearney - TM took Lowri out herding on the big mamas.  TM wanted to check them out to see if any are going to lamb soon.  Lowri got to be the stock dog.  TM worked on patience with Lowri.  And lots of stops.  Lets just say that after the last trial with a near relative of Lowri's, TM remembered she really, really wanted good stops on Lowri.  It didn't look like any of the big mamas were imminent.  TM is going to keep a good eye on them.

Lowri - Kear - do you think we will score anymore Thanksgiving food?

New Food Game

Kearney - MC gave TM this great new game for her birthday.  The best part of it is that it is for us!  It is called Dog Domino.  It is on a wood base.  There are four black "dominos" that move right or left.  Underneath them are five little cubby holes for treats.  Once we have this part of the game figured out, TM will make it harder by setting five little knobs to the side of the dominos.  We will have to move the slides to free the knobs.  There are treats put into the bottom of the knobs.

I am very bright because I figured out how to move the slides.  TM took a video of me getting the treats.  I confess it took me a couple of minutes to get all the treats, but it won't be long before I fly through it.  TM says she is going to let Aidan and Daisy play it too.  Lowri still needs help.  I think she is training TM on how to slide the dominos so Lowri can get the treats.  Maybe she is brighter than me after all!

Lowri - I am a baby!  I get extra tries to figure it out. 

It's Good to be Home

Lowri - I have had a great day!  I got to play in the rain and the mud with Kearney.  We romped and played all day long.  I have missed my Kear.  Tonight we went to PR's place.  I have been snoozing in TM's lap almost all evening.  When I was not, I played with Aidan, Daisy and Kearney. 

I had a great time at MC's place.  I got to sit with her a lot.  I played with Miss Monroe - when she was willing to play.  I got to try to steal her food - of course that only happened when MC wasn't looking.  With everything I got to do, there was one thing I missed.  I NEVER got to see the puppies!  They are MY half sibs.  You would think I could sneak a peek.  I tried and tried, but MC caught me every time.  I guess I have to wait until they are just a little older.

I'm Home

Lowri - After FIVE weeks, I am finally home.  I have been visiting with MC.  She is a lot of fun and I got to play with Miss Monroe and Miss Treasure, but I am happy to be home with Kearney and TM.  Here is a picture of me that TM took today.  MC had me fluffed and buffed.  She also tempted me with really good cookies.

When we got home, TM let me play with the new gift MC gave her.  It is a tricky dog toy.  TM hides cookies in various recesses.  I have to move slides around to release the treats.  I am mostly getting them by luck now, but I am going to keep at it until I understand how to win!

Kearney - I got to play with the new toy too.  It is fun.  TM has promised to get some pictures of it so y'all can see what it looks like.

I had some brilliant moments on ducks at the herding trial today.  Unfortunately, in that same run, TM screwed some stuff up.  I ended up with a fourth place.  Chase and I both messed up on sheep.  I would have gotten through the course, but TM chose to help educate me on some of the finer points.  She left the post, so I NQ'ed.   Chase was out to rodeo, so TM left the post just kept him from getting wilder.

Saturday at Miss Libbye's

Kearney - I started out really early this morning on ducks.  All I can say is that the stock handler looked at me, she was wearing a hat, the ducks were shiny black, the wind was blowing, the field was bigger, TM was wearing sun glasses.  Okay, I admit, I just didn't do my job right.  I spooked at the stock handler.  She is a very nice lady, but she might have moved when I turned my back.  I eventually lifted the stock and brought them to TM.  She did give me a wrong command, which I followed!  I lost the ducks clear back to the exhaust gate.  TM told me to go-bye.  OKAY, I HAD A BRAIN FART.  Are you happy now???  TM came down to help me.  She got me straightened out and had me fetch the ducks a bit.  Then she called my run!  I had just started to work!  I mean, really!!!  She looked at the judge and said "Thank you".  Then she made me LEAVE!  I hate it when that happens.

So then much later, TM came and got Chase.  The wind was still blowing, and he was pretty ramped up.  All in all, he did a pretty nice job.  TM thought he qualified.  Much to her surprise, the judge didn't agree.  Poor Chase.  He tried to work with TM, but just isn't quite secure enough in his job yet.  He did manage to do the outrun with only two redirects.  He needs a lot more miles.

Then TM came and got me.  I had to redeem myself.  Unfortunately, I forgot what I was doing on the outrun and needed to be redirected.  The sheep saw me coming down and left the feed pan.  I was clear out at the fence.  I moved them back to Miss Libbye, who was our stock handler.  I screwed around a bit, because I thought Miss Libbye might move.  TM yelled at me and I settled down to work.  I was the ONLY dog to get ALL the sheep through ALL the obstacles.  Unfortunately, I screwed around enough at the start and finish that I only managed to go fourth in the class.  TM said I did really well because only six dogs Q'ed, me and 5 Border Collies.  TM says I will do better tomorrow.  I really hope so! TM says I need a lot of miles too.

Friday at Miss Libbye's

Kearney - Today we were at Miss Libbye's place in Central Kentucky.  I was the only one who got to herd and I only got to herd once.  That sure wasn't much fun.  I really like it when I get to herd multiple times.  Today was A course Ducks and B course Sheep - that is why Chase didn't herd and I only worked once.

It was really chilly this morning.  Makes me a bit sorry that I am in the midst of a big shed right now!  We got to the trial at 7:00 o'clock.  It was just getting light.  TM got Chase and me out and let us potty.  I wanted her to get the show on the road, but I guess it wasn't quite time for my turn.

When it was time, TM got me out of the van.  She clipped on the leather leash.  I was VERY excited as I know she only does that when we are going to herd.  We walked out to the cone and TM sent me.  When I got to the right spot, the duck wrangler lifted the wire circle and let the ducks out.  I almost fell over in shock!  These ducks weren't like anything I had ever seen before!  They were big and black - pure black!  With an iridescent green sheen to them.  I didn't want to get near them.  I didn't realize that they were ducks at first.  Once they moved a bit, and quacked a bit, I figured it out and went to work.  I did a pretty good job with them.  At the repen area, TM told me to HOLD them.  I told them to freeze.  One of them ignored me - TWICE!  I couldn't allow that.  The second time, I grabbed it by its wing and swung it around.  TM squeaked!  I let it go and TM opened the gate. 

Even though I punished the duck, the judge let me qualify.  I ended up in second place.  TM says I am almost halfway to my Dual Championship.  All I can say is "bring on the trials."  I LOVE my job!!

Ready to Go

Kearney - The car is packed.  I'm ready to go. I'm standing here beside the door. I hate to say good bye - oh wait, I Love to go.  I am ready to go.  When do we leave???


TM and I just did my last chance workout.  I did the outrun and lift just right all three times.  My fetch is just a little too fast.  TM says were as ready as we can be at this time.  Herding trials, here we come!

Last night when TM went to bed, it was still raining.  It has been raining for two days!  Just before she turned the lights out, she happened to be looking at the ceiling.  She looked at it for a minute and then got out of bed to touch it.  Sure enough, water on the ceiling.  TM needs a new roof.  PR called his guy for her.  They are going to get it done as soon as they can.  Poor TM - literally - POOR TM. 

Pumped and Ready

Kearney - I got to work sheep (with no stinkin' cows nearby) yesterday and ducks today.  I am ready to go!!!  I love my job.  I get to help TM with the livestock all the time.  Sometimes I think she makes up work, but I get to go out and have a really good time doing it!

Chase - I brought my brain to work yesterday.  I did a beautiful outrun and moved the sheep quietly around the field.  We were working the crazy lambs again, so it is always interesting.  I get to cut them off when they try to escape.  Of course, I am the one who causes the escape in the first place <G>

TM says we are going to herding trials this weekend.  Kearney will get to work sheep and ducks.  I will only be working sheep (they finally got the clue about me not liking the stinkin' ducks).  I don't have a problem with cows.  I think they would be interesting to work, but both TM and my mama, Penni, said a resounding NO.  Anyway, I can't wait to go to the trials (I get to lose half of my mind and it is expected <G>).

Miles and Miles to Go

Kearney - TM took me out with the seven wild lambs today.  I worked at moving them around the field at a walk (them, not necessarily me).  The cows were out in their field next to the lamb field.  I had to go over near them to bring the lambs back a couple of times.  I STILL don't like that!  TM just kept working me quietly and having me walk the lambs along.  She said I was a VERY good boy.

Chase - I worked the lambs in the field too.  They don't like to walk when I am around.  I have POWER <G>  I like it too!  TM had me doing outruns and walking the lambs around the field.  That is harder than you might think when you have power to burn!  TM told me a lot of times what a good boy I was.  I wish she thought that when I made the lambs hurry, cause that is a LOT more fun.  I did get to do a couple of times of lifting the lambs off the fence.  I get to hurry then.  TM says I need lots of miles now.  I have the general idea, I just need to be right a lot now. 

Kinda Weird

Kearney - It has been kinda weird this last week.  We had two fabulous weekends in a row with Chase and me cleaning up at the herding trials and then Lowri cleaning up at the Knoxville shows.  TM was feeling almost guilty about our successes.  I tried to tell her that with Chase and me, she has worked really, really hard and earned all the rewards, but it took one of TM's clients to ask how this year balances with last year. 

This is a picture of Miss Dora earning her Dual Championship.  You can see she is shaved from all the testing that was done to determine she had lymphoma and to start treating her.  We lost her in March, 2010.  She was six years old.  (Don't tell TM, but while I liked Miss Dora a lot, she could really be a bitch.  I guess it is cause she got sick right after I came to live with TM.)

This is my brother, Angus.  He was in the kitchen (you can see Miss Dora's head behind him).  TM had them locked up while she was cleaning.  My brother always had his head resting on something. 

He was working towards his Dual Championship when he got sick.  TM lost him in June, 2010.  He had only shown symptoms for 9 days before she lost him.  He was four years old.

Fortunately, TM had me, PR and MC.  We were able give her lots of love.  Then Lowri joined us in February. 

I think it is kinda weird that really big successes can suddenly make you sad.  People are strange.  It is much better to be a dog.  We enjoy life and stay happy.

This is Lowri and me from earlier this year.  Looking at us makes TM smile. 

More Training

Kearney - I miss Lowri.  I wish she were here to play with me.  This afternoon, TM let me and Chase out together.  Chase took off and started a romp.  All of a sudden, he realized it was me he was playing with.  We both got sort of stiff and walked off pretending we hadn't just started to play.

TM let me work ducks again.  I know all about the cord pulling things behind me.  I don't really like it, but I am not jumping all over the place anymore.  TM had me work the ducks.  We pretended we had a course set up.  I did a pretty good job - except I am too fast and get too close when I am fetching them.  TM says we only have a couple more tries to fix that.

Chase and I are going to get to work sheep for the next three days.  TM says it will be our last big weekend before the trial.  We are going to Central KY next weekend for trials.  We are going to Miss Libbye's place.  My brother, Angus, always liked to go there.  He said Miss Libbye is really nice.  I am happy I am finally going to see her place. 

Gmpft, Gmpft, Snort

Kearney - Last night I was sitting in TM's lap.  She was warm and relaxed because I was watching over her.  Before too long, she drifted off to sleep.  Pretty soon, there was this weird noise.  I looked up and it was coming from TM.  I sat up to get a better look.  She was going gmpft, gmpft, snort.  When I moved to get a better look, she woke up and opened her eyes.  I don't know who was more embarrassed, me for getting caught staring at her mouth or TM for gmpft'ing.  All I know is that she was careful not to go back to sleep in the chair.

This morning, we went out to herd ducks.  TM attached a long line to a tarp.  At the other end of the 50-foot line, she tied the duck release wire circle.  When I moved the ducks past either one of these, she would pull on the rope and make it move from behind me.  I figured it out pretty quickly and quit startling from the movement behind me.

TM had talked to her sister last night.  Miss Kathy suggested she do something like this so I wouldn't be scared at stuff moving behind me.  Miss Kathy goes as far as setting up a scarecrow type of thing so the dogs get use to the idea of strange looking people being in the herding arena near the set out pan.  Miss Kathy is pretty smart.

Keeping TM Company

Kearney - Since Lowri has been gone - and will be gone for almost two more weeks - I have decided I need to keep TM company.  So, even though I have not done this at any point in my life, I have taken to sitting on TM's lap in the evening.  I curl up with my head in her lap and go to sleep.  She keeps a hand on me, or runs a finger along my soft hair between my eyes.   It feels great.

When she gets up, I follow her wherever she goes.  I make sure there are no sewer monsters in the bathroom.  I sit and wait for her when she closes a door between us.  I sleep at her feet when she is on the computer.   I even have been sneaking into the bedroom so I can watch over her while she sleeps.  I curl up next to the bed and snooze lightly.   I am doing my best to take care of her while Lowri is gone.

It is tough being a responsible dog.

What a Weekend!

Kearney - So my little sister spent four days at the dog shows in Knoxville.  She finished her championship on Saturday.  She did it a little faster than I did.  I got mine at almost two years of age, Lowri isn't quite 11 months old.  Oh well, I guess I will just have to put up with her big head.  Actually, I am very proud of her.  She is such a sweetheart.  This is what she accomplished over the weekend.

Thursday - BOB over three specials.  Thanks to Michele Billings
Friday - BOS over two specials to finish.  Best Puppy, Puppy Group 1.  Thank you, David Anthony!
Saturday - BOS over two specials.  BOS Group 3.  Thanks to Dr. Gary Sparschu
Sunday - Select over a special.  Thanks to Charles Olvis

MC is taking the haul of ribbons in to show her boss (so he knows why she takes time off).

I got to go herding on Saturday and Sunday.  TM made me work near the cows.  That was really scary.  I don't like it at all.  By late on Sunday, I was going down near them and taking my commands like TM wanted me to.  She told me I was a very good dog.  She is also teaching me to take an "away" for the crossline drive.  I am trying hard to figure out how to do that.  TM says I will get it - hopefully by the time I need it for the next trial.

Chase - My daughter is beautiful.  I am so proud of her and all my other children.  I hear my son, Tommy, is going to try to finish his championship this coming weekend.  I will have my paws crossed for him.

I got to herd on Saturday and Sunday as well.  TM worked me on outruns and escapes.  She seems to think the principles are pretty similar for my going down to get the sheep.  She wants me to go fast and stay out wide.  I get behind the sheep and bring them back.  It is a lot of fun - except when I go in too tight.  TM isn't amused by that.  She is working hard so I can qualify my next time out. 

I will be staying with TM for the next two weeks so she will have lots of time to work with me.  Of course, that means that Lowri will stay with MC.  That doesn't thrill TM, but she is going to just suck it up and be brave.

Little Sister with a BIG head!

Kearney - TM just got back from the show and...

Lowri - I HAVE L E T T E R S!  AT BOTH ENDS OF MY NAME!  I am a CHAMPION!  I had the BEST time today!!!  I got to meet new fans.  Lots of people cheered for me.  I WON!  I am SO EXCITED!  I just can't STAND it!  I WON, I WON!!!  MC is going to take me back to the shows on Saturday and Sunday and I get to show in the Best of Breed class.  I am a CHAMPION!  I am, I am, I am exhausted.  I am going to sleep now.

Kearney - Whew.  Glad she is down for the count.  So, as I was saying, TM just got back from the show.  She said Lowri was beautiful and that everyone was commenting on her.  The judge, Mr. David Anthony, wanted to take her home with him.  Fortunately, TM got there in time and made sure she went home with MC.  

TM - I can't thank Penni enough for agreeing way back in February when I said "you already have a Chase puppy.  If Lauri is still available for our pick, why don't you send her home with me."  Penni fell for it!  When we got to Janet's, and I found out Lauri was still available, I picked her up and never set her down.  She came home with me and became Lowri.  Now she has letters <G>

Little Sister

Kearney - Yesterday, little Lowri went to the dog show with MC.  She had a fabulous time and got to meet lots of new people.  The judge, Michelle Billings, thought she was lovely and gave her Winners Bitch, Best of Winners and Best of Breed.  There were three champions there!  She got to go play at the group place.  He judge at that place didn't think she was the best dog there - silly judge.  MC says Lowri did her best and showed her heart out.  I am very proud of her.

She will be showing all weekend.  If she continues to do well, Lowri will be a well-balanced dog.  She will have letters in front and in back of her name.  I am keeping my paws crossed for her.

On another note, TM is getting ready to get rid of one of the new ducks.  She does NOT want her teaching the other ducks to yell like she does.  TM thinks she has given this duck plenty of time to settle down.  Stupid duck!

New Ducks

Kearney - TM brought two new ducks home from the trial.  While they are the same size and look just like the other four, they are very LOUD!!!  TM says if they don't settle in pretty soon, she is going to have duck soup!  I am really enjoying herding the six ducks.  The new two are always trying to break away from the four.  I am having the best time keeping all six together.  It makes everything a bit more interesting.  TM and I generally have different ideas on which group I should move to the other, but I listen to her when she wants me to move them one way or the other.  We make a very good team.

On another note, I understand I am getting Lowri back this weekend!  I can't wait.  I miss the brat.  TM says she will be going to the dog shows this weekend to cheer her on.  Then Sunday, she will come home with us.  Of course, the other side of that is that Chase goes back to MC's place.  He has been pretty good for these last couple of weeks.  He understands that this is MY home.  He is welcome to share it, but he doesn't get to decide who gets to live here.

Wether to Market

Kearney - Last night we went to PR's place.  TM picked up the little trailer and put the sheep carrier on it.  Chase and I did different jobs in getting the wether into the correct field so TM could load him up in this morning.  Then we went up to the house and got cozy for the evening.  I got to play with Daisy and Aiden.  Chase spent a good part of the evening on TM's lap.

This morning, I helped TM load the wether on the trailer.  She got him into the barn and caught him.  I then made sure he kept moving as we went through the gate, up four steps and around to the trailer.  The wether was pretty good, and I didn't have to help very much.  Too bad.

TM hauled him to market and then brought Chase, me and the trailer to her house.  We waited patiently for her to get through the gates and into the back yard where she parked the trailer.  Then we got fed.

TM is busy hanging scary stuff like bags and tarps around the yard.  She is going to be working me hard on not being such a chicken.  We she was done, I got to work the ducks around the scary bags.  They were more scared than I was.  I made them go close to the tarp.  I was so good <G>

Sunday Results

Chase - Well, MY results from today won't be posted for about 61 days <G>  I got to start my day with the HOT girl!  This weekend was a brief interlude, but whoo - was it fun!

In herding, I got moved up to Advanced.  I am embarrassed to say, I totally lost my mind on the outrun.  TM told me a couple of times what to do, and then came down to help me get it right.  I got my head back in the game and did a really nice job through the rest of the course.  TM says I would have beaten Kearney if I hadn't totally blown the outrun, lift and fetch.  I could have lost six points on it and still have beaten Kearney.  That will be my goal for the next time we go trialing.

Kearney - I am embarrassed to say that if TM had had HER head in the game, I would have done better than third in Intermediate B course Ducks.  She gave me some really slow commands and told me to do something that was just wrong.  I told her it wouldn't work, but she just looked at me so I did it.  She says I did a very good job.

My Advanced sheep run wasn't good enough to get any points, but I did place fifth.  TM didn't even lose the leash.

My Advanced duck run was quite nice.  TM took some NoDoz at lunch to try and get her head back in the game.  By the time I ran ducks she was doing pretty well.  I spooked when the stock handler moved and messed up the fetch, but the rest of the run was pretty nice.  I WON the class and a four-point major towards my DC.  I also managed to get RHIT.

TM said the long drive home wasn't bad at all.  Neither Chase nor I would know, we slept the whole way back.

Saturday Results

Kearney - We had a big day at the herding trials.  TM got us up at 5:30 AM.  I definitely wanted more sleep!!  We got to the trial site and TM got us out to walk.  It was burr-nippy.  There was frost all over the ground.  I was feeling very perky <G>.

I went out and did a very good job on Started Ducks on B course.  TM told me I was awesome.  I was bouncing up and down and all around.  The judge said I would have had a better score if TM hadn't make a couple of handler errors.  They are even marked as "HE" on the score sheet <G>   I still qualified and won the class.  TM said that I now have my HSBd title.

When B course was done, I went right over to the sheep arena.  I worked hard with the Advanced Sheep.  I don't think they were advanced - maybe a bit retarded.  They didn't do everything I told them to.  At one point, I was supposed to go near this blue tarp that was making a racket.  There were some strange people there wearing hats.  I was pretty scared and didn't want to go near that area.  The retarded sheep figured that out and stayed really close to that area.  TM wouldn't come down and help me, she just stayed up by the exam pen.  I finally got my nerve up and charged through there.  The sheep hurried over to the "4" marker and then straight over to the "5"  (well, sort of straight).  TM put the sheep away and we went to the gate to leave.  That is when TM realized she had lost my leash.  She needed it to leave the arena with me.  She walked all over trying to find it.  I went with her and finally we found it.  TM took a lot of good-natured ribbing over that.  I did good enough to take a third place with that run.


Chase - I got to go next for my Intermediate Sheep run.  I told TM as we went in that I was going to make her work.  I made the sheep go around the course, but TM had to use her very stern voice a couple of times.  I had a good time <G>  I managed to hold things together and succeeded in winning my class.  Since that is my third Intermediate Sheep leg, I now have my HIAs title.  Because I got that, I also qualify for my CWCCA VCX title.  TM says that all titles are pending AKC or CWCCA approval.

Kearney - I finally got to make my last run of the day.  I did a good enough job to qualify and get a fifth place ribbon in Advanced Ducks.  With my Advanced "Q's" on ducks and sheep, I finished my HXAsd titles.  I was a very good dog.  I also managed to go High in Trial with my Started B course duck run.  TM was VERY happy with me. 

I got moved up to Intermediate B course and Chase got moved up to Advanced Sheep on A course.  I will try my best to qualify.  Chase is planning on having fun.  He isn't as serious as I am about herding.

Chase - I also got to meet a really HOT girl here at the trials.  Whew, she is a beauty!  I am totally in love.  This weekend has been totally great! 

Herding Trials This Weekend

Kearney - Tomorrow we leave at about 3:00 to head out to Hazel, KY for herding trials.  I am pumped!  I will get to herd three times each day.  Ducks, sheep and ducks again.  I am planning on having such a good time.  I will be sleeping with TM.

Chase - This is shaping up to be the PERFECT weekend!  Not only do I get to herd sheep both days - I don't have to go near the stinkin' ducks.  THEN on top of that, I think I heard that I am going to meet with a hot girl!  I mean really, how much more perfect can a weekend get? 

TM went to see the Puppies

Kearney - TM went to see the new puppies tonight.  I didn't get to go see them.  TM said they were very nice puppies, vigorous, healthy and fairly uniform in size.   She can't wait to see them grow on.  I can't wait to see them.  I will be a very good uncle!  MC took some new pictures of the Fab Five.  They are on the Bluefox blog.

TM got to see Lowri.  Sadly for TM, Lowri takes after her daddy.  It is that whole "Love the one you're with" thing.  Lowri was busy jumping on MC and trying to see if she would get fed.  She did sit on TM's lap for her pedicure.  After she had sat there for a while, she remembered that she loves to sit in the recliner with TM.   Lowri said she is doing very well at MC's place.  She tries to sleep on the bed and tries to sneak food from Miss Monroe.  When she starts sliding close to Miss Monroe's food dish, she gets warned away very clearly.  She tries to pretend she really had no interest in Miss Monroe's food - really.

I did get to work ducks today.  TM took me out and worked on a few of my problem areas.  She said I was a wonderful boy.  I had the best time.  I got to "hold" them - even though that is NOT one of my problem areas <G>  I am excited about the trials this weekend.  We are going to have the best time!

Puppies

Kearney - Puppies!  We have puppies!!!  My sister, Treasure, has five beautiful puppies.  There are two red boys (everyone needs a red boy - although TM has enough of them - ME!), two red girls and a brindle girl.  MC is exhausted after spending the night at the ER vet's office.  The puppies were born by c-section.  Treasure is doing well - if a bit sore.  Check out MC's blog (Bluefox) to see the first pictures of the baybees.  I am an uncle - whoa, since Treasure isn't married, I had better get a job to help take care of the baybees!

Chase - I am a daddy again!  I can't wait to see the kids.  I love babies.  I am trying to populate the earth with them <G>

Dog Food

Kearney - Don't anyone tell Lowri, but TM made dog food for us today.  In less than an hour, she had ground up liver, heart, tongue, kidneys, blueberries and summer squash: mixed it together, cut up 15 pounds of chicken hindquarters and measured it all out for us; and cleaned up the mess!   She is getting pretty good at this.  Poor Lowri had to miss the cleanup <smacking lips>  It has a delightful bouquet.

We aren't going to get to herd today.  My sister, Treasure, appears to be having her pups sometime soon.  She is panting away in the whelping box.  TM signs on to watch her over the web.  Technology is great!  She is on call to help MC if she needs any support.

I am going to have nieces and nephews!

Last Chance Workout

Chase - We had our last chance workout today.  I got to go first and help TM gate-cut the sheep she wanted us to work.  Since I got to do that yesterday, I had a pretty good idea of what needed to be done.  TM didn't have to give me a lot of direction as I moved the sheep back and forth so she could open the gate and let out those she didn't want.

Then I got to do an Advanced run.  I still have some problems lifting the sheep out of the exam pen, so we worked extra on that.  We also did a lot of work on walking up.  I got lots of scritches cause I was so awesome!

Kearney - I am still having confidence issues.  I worry about the cows escaping from the round pen and coming after me.  Because I worry, the sheep aren't very respectful.  That makes me worry some more.  I did a good job even so.  TM says I will get confidence.   She had me "hit" the bad sheep.  That is always fun.  I walk off the field feeling pumped!

Next week we go to the herding trials.  We are ready - as long as the sheep aren't too ugly toward us.

Saturday Training

Kearney - MC put up her blog today!  Now we will be able to see lots of pictures of my sister, Treasure, and her puppies that are due this coming week.  You can see her blog at bluefoxtn.blogspot.com.

TM and PR went and bought four big round bales of hay this morning.  Then they sanded down the stock trailer.  PR went out and mowed the fields, while TM took Chase and me out to herd.

Chase - I got to go first.  TM had me do an Advanced course and then I got to work on the areas I have trouble with. TM had me practice walk ups.  I need to remember to walk straight at the sheep.  The key words are straight and walk.  I will keep practicing on these.  I am doing pretty well over all.  TM says I was awesome.

Kearney - TM FINALLY figured out that I am having problems with the "Z".  It has been building for quite a while.  It started when the cows were on the other side of the fence.  I didn't want to go near the "Z" because that was a little too close to the cows.  I think I forgot that was why I have problems with the "Z".  Now the cows are at the other end of the field, but I still am having trouble.  Today we worked and worked on the "Z".  Then we worked at lifting the sheep for the cross-drive.  I worked hard.  I am awesome too!

Finally Friday!

Lowri - It's finally Friday!  I get to go stay with Mama Cheryl for the next two weeks.  I am so excited.  MC has all kinds of treats.  She is making special food for Miss Treasure.  Maybe I can get in on that.  I will get to hang out and play with Miss Monroe and MAYBE I'll get to see my brand new siblings!  Just before I go home, I get to go to four dog shows.  I am on vacation!

Kearney - Oh goody, I lose Lowri and gain Chase.  Not sure that is a good trade.  Maybe I should talk to TM and MC about this.  Oh well, at least TM will open up the whole yard again.  Right now we just have the little side yard because it has 6-foot fences.

TM says we will be busy training for our next herding trials.  They are in a week.  I am entered in A course Sheep and Ducks and B course ducks.  I will be busy.  Chase is entered in Intermediate Sheep on the A course.  In the middle of November, we will be at another herding trial.

Wednesday Stuff

Kearney - We came back from PR's place this morning.  TM didn't even stop at home, we got to go with her to her appointment.  She had to have a mam...mama...mammagraph...annual test for cancer.  We are glad she takes care of herself.  It proves she loves us.  Even though it has been six years since she had cancer, she gets that test done every year. 

When we got home, we got to play outside for just a little bit.  It was pretty chilly and rainy all day.  It quit raining for a bit right after TM got done with work.  We got to dash out and work the ducks.  TM just practices with me on some of the stuff I don't quite get.  She and I work through it and I try to remember it for the next time.

Lowri - I got to work ducks too.  It makes Kearney CRAZY when I get to hold them.  He thinks that is his job, but I am learning it too.  TM says I am a VERY GOOD girl!

I have to say that I am very TIRED of being the pretty pantie girl!  TM either puts me in the crate or makes me wear panties.  I even have to wear them if I am in the xpen at PR's place.  When will this be over!!

Duck work

Kearney - We didn't think we would be able to work today, but TM had a client cancel.  Both Lowri and I got to work the ducks.  I got to go first.  TM kept her voice quiet and had me lift the ducks and fetch them to her.  Then I drove the ducks around the yard.  I worked on some outruns and  also lifting them off the fence to do the crossdrive.  TM said I was a very good boy.

Lowri - I got to move the ducks around the yard with TM.  She says I bounce too much.  I think it is fun <G>  The ducks run faster if I bounce at them.  I was able to lift them off the fence in both directions.  It isn't as hard as I remember it being.  I did have a bit of trouble because I would go too far, but TM talked me through it.  I sort of understand it now.  I got to fetch the ducks, drive them around the yard, do a crossdrive and lift them off the fence.  I was awesome!

I just found out that I am going to MC's house for TWO weeks!  I am so excited!  I will be there when my new siblings are born.  I am going to be such a good big sister.  I will snuggle them and clean them and kiss them.... WHAT?  I don't get to see them?  At all??  What is this?  SO NOT FAIR!

TM - Since Lowri will be in standing heat this weekend, she is going to MC's while I have Chase.  Then the following weekend, Chase, Kearney and I are going to a herding trial.  The Thursday - Sunday after that are dog shows in Knoxville.  Rather than trade back and forth while Treasure is having puppies, we are just going to leave Lowri with Cheryl and Chase with me.  I will try to be brave without my puppy!

And more work

Kearney - TM is just too busy right now!  Yesterday, she did some massage work, had a trailer hitch installed on her Dodge Grand Caravan, and made us some dog food - lots and lots of dog food!  I got to work ducks for a few minutes, but that was all.  Today, she is swamped with clients, so no ducks for us.

Lowri - On top of all that, TM isn't letting me out into the big yard.  She says I have to stay in the little yard so I am behind a six-foot fence.  No playing?  No running through the yard at top speed?  Not for two weeks???  I don't think I like this being in heat stuff!

Lots of Work

Kearney - We had a mostly boring day because TM and PR were working on the stock trailer.  They were using wire brush power tools to remove the rust.  They spent all day working on it.  PR is going to paint it after some more work.  We finally got to go out and do some herding late in the day.  TM let Lowri go first.

Lowri - I got to go out into the big field again.  I am not sure if TM realizes how much work it is to go running up those hills.  I wasn't nearly as fast today!  I paid more attention and worked smarter.  Once I brought the sheep too TM, she walked around for a bit.  I held the sheep to her.  I did allow them run away once.  TM says I was pushing them too hard.  I am not going to do that again!  That hill is really steep.

When we were done with those sheep, TM took me into the small field and had me work the 11 sheep there.  Seven of them were the wild lambs.  I stayed back to keep them from running.  TM was very proud of me.  Then I got to hold them in a corner while TM checked each of them out.  I LIKE holding them!!

Kearney got to go next.  He got to work those lambs too.  TM had him practice his outruns, flanks and he got to hold the sheep while TM wasn't anywhere near.  He was a very good dog too!

When MC got there, my Daddy got to work.  He helped TM gate sort the four older sheep from the wild lambs.  That looks really interesting.  You move the sheep back and forth in front of the gate, until the one TM wants is in the right position.  When it is, she opens the gate so that particular sheep can escape.

Then my Daddy got to go work those four sheep.  TM had him run an Advanced course.  He did it!  TM said he was AWESOME!  He even did a blind outrun (he didn't know where the sheep were, he just trusted that TM knew what she was doing).  His second time he wasn't awesome, but TM had him practice some things that he needs to learn.  He still needs more work on "walk up" and "stop".  Between you and me, I think he is ALWAYS going to need work on "stop".  TM says he needs a LOT of miles now.  He is working with her pretty well.  I love my Daddy!

Fun, Fun, Fun

Kearney - TM took us all out to the big field.  There were six sheep (and NO cows!).  TM saw the brindle bullet streaking toward the sheep as they disappeared over the hill.  She yelled at Chase to come back.  From nearby, he turned to look at her.  It was Lowri in hot pursuit <G>  TM didn't yell any more as she knew the sheep would be back pretty quick.  Sure enough, here they came.  Lowri was still in hot pursuit.

TM took Chase and me up the hill to some shade and tied us up (she didn't want to go up and down the hill any more than she had too).  We were tied so we couldn't get together, nor could we get hung up in the leashes.  She had Lowri work the sheep some more.

There were a couple more fast trips around the field.  It is about three or four acres and has some steep hills.  Lowri never quit, but her tongue was hanging out pretty far.  TM told her to stop and Lowri did - immediately.  She asked Lowri to make some wide outruns and Lowri did.  I think TM brought us out there on purpose to teach Lowri some lessons in stock handling.

Chase got to work in the big field too.  TM was working him on widening out his outrun when he gets behind the sheep.  He did a pretty good job.

I got to work a bit with the lambs.  TM and PR had finished putting in the electric fence at the new field this morning.  She said they made it hot.  It didn't look too bad to me, but I stayed away from it.  I made the lambs move out into the new field.  This was before we went and worked on the hill.  I guess I did a good enough job, as TM didn't let me work the sheep in the big field.

Lowri - After we came down from the big field, TM took my Daddy out to work the lambs for just a bit.  They had come back into their old field and TM wanted to put them in the new field again, so they would know that they could go back and forth.  He did that very well.  Then TM went to where the electricity is.  She did a little cleaning up and was just starting back to the barn, when my Daddy YELLED.  He went zipping past TM on the way to the van.  He wouldn't even look back when TM called.  Apparently, he got too close to the new fence while he was exploring.  He told us NOT to go near the new fence - it BITES!!!