Bone Cracking

Lowri - TM took us to the bone cracker today.  We both got our bones cracked.  TM went first to make sure that the chiropractor was good at her job.  TM said she felt much better afterwards.  She said Dr. Blue put her shoulders back where they belonged.

Then it was my turn.  I got to come into the office and greet Dr. Blue and her assistant.  She went over my back and neck and my back and my hips and my back and my legs and my back.  When she was done, I felt so very much better.  My hips are back in alignment.  I can really move now.  Life is good.

Today is Miss Kathy's birthday.  She went with us as we ran all over east TN.  TM fixed her lasagne for her birthday dinner.  PR and Miss Kathy really enjoyed it.  There was birthday cake afterwords.  I didn't get any of it!  I don't think that is fair.  I wanted some too.

Herding Trials

Lowri - Whoo-hoo!  We went to herding trials this weekend in Georgia.  On Saturday, Treasure and I mostly sat in the car.  I am thinking that was a good thing, it was COLD!  TM and Miss Kathy stood out in the cold wind all day long.  They were icebergs by the end of the day.  Because Miss Kathy was the judge, TM couldn't trial.   She was the scribe.

Today, we got to trial.  Treasure got to run ducks in the morning.  She picked up her first leg on Started Ducks, A Course.  She took second place in her class.  TM was quite pleased with how she worked.

I got to run on Started A Sheep.  I was feeling good after sitting in the car for two days.  I was barely able to control my excitement as we headed out to the cone.  I sat while my sheep came in to the arena and waited until TM told me to start.  I boogied on down to the sheep.  I did a VERY good job of holding them to TM.  I bounced this way and that.  TM says the judge wrote "I LOVE this dog" on my score sheet.  She also wrote "stop 1/2 point, stop 1/2 point, stop 1/2 point".  There were a lot of them.  Apparently, when you bounce forward to keep the sheep from running past TM, and they stop, you lose points.  I lost a whole bunch of them. Anyway, I qualified and took second in my class.  I now have two HSAs legs.  I need one more and then I will have that title.  I will have MORE letters!  That will be very good.

Busy Day

Lowri - We had a busy day today.  TM took Miss Kathy on trip to town.  Treasure and I got to go with them.  I think it was mainly so that PR wouldn't have to listen to Treasure's bark.  Anyway, we went to town and got to play together for a couple of hours out in the yard.  When we got back home we stopped at the barn.  TM wanted Miss Kathy to help her band the lambs. 

I helped TM bring the lambs up and held them close.   TM grabbed one of Snowy's girls.  When they went to put the band on the tail, the band tool broke!  I got muddy for no good reason.  Oh wait, I don't need a reason to get muddy <G>  Since Snowy was trying to argue with me, TM had me work her for a minute.  Stupid sheep butted me into the fence!  I got to bite her for it.  That really got me pumped up.  I got into the wrong place and Snowy chased me halfway across the field!  I got to bite her again.  Then TM had me work all the ewes for a minute, until TM was sure I wasn't upset by my misadventures. 

After I got cleaned off, we started to turn around to go up to the house.  Gracie, the cow, was out!  I got back out and helped TM put her back out in the field. 

I am a working stock dog!!!  Bring on the trial this weekend!

Herding and Late Christmas Present

Lowri - TM told MC that there would be no winter herding this season.  With the ducks massacred and the sheep all lambing, there would be nothing to herd for about three months.  Then, today a miracle happened!  The buff duck came home!!!!  She was hiding next to the cow field in a very protected place.  She had lots of water and was reasonably safe.  She saw TM across the field and stood up tall and quacked very loudly.  TM realized it was the buff duck and started cheering. 

I got to come out and help bring her in.  TM let me race around the field and bother the cows while she encouraged the duck out of the briars.  As soon as "Lucky" got into the field, Thor and I came over to congratulate her on getting home safely.  She darted back into the briars.  TM gave us a dirty look and told us to go away.

Once she got Lucky back out of the briars and moving toward the barn, I got to come do my job.  I helped TM drive her into the barn and into the pheasant yard.  TM told me I did a VERY good job!

It was great, there was mud everywhere.  While TM was busy, I race around and had a blast.  Pretty soon, there was mud and muck all over me too.  What a great, late Christmas present!  Afterwards, TM had me "go to water".  I jumped in the little stock tank.  TM washed me off.  At least I still smell a little of muck and mud.

There WILL be winter duck herding at our place!!!

TM's Big Gift from MC

Lowri - Here is the gift that MC made for TM for Christmas.  It is a blanket she can use, or she can hang it.  It has pictures of all of her Cardigans ever.  TM started to cry when she saw it.  She still misses Dora, Angus and Kearney.  The top left is DC Dora.  She is also on the bottom right, second from the corner.

Kearney's beautiful mama, Hannah, is the bottom left.  Angus, HXAsd, is in the second row on both sides.  He was a handsome fellow.  Kear is the darling puppy in the flowers, he is in the top right and the bottom middle.  All the rest are of ME.  I got the most pictures.  That is how it should be!

Best Coat EVER!

Miss Kathy came to visit us today.  She brought us lots of presents!  I LOVE getting presents!  TM, MC and Miss Kathy retired to a bedroom to open presents.  I got LOCKED up.  It seems like I was a little too wound up - IMAGINE that!  A kid on Christmas getting wound up when the relatives show up bearing gifts!

Me in my sun shade coat!

After TM opened the presents, I got invited to come into the bedroom to try on my NEW coat!!!  I LOVE IT.  There is lots of bling and everything!

This is going to be SO great in the heat and sun!  I can't wait for Summer!!!!!

Poor TM

Lowri - Poor TM!  She was so sick yesterday.  She was up all night the night before - dashing to the bathroom.  I think that's why they call it the Flew.  I was thinking we should call the vet!   She was finally able to keep some water down during the day.  I spent most of my day locked in my x-pen.  For some reason, TM didn't want me in her lap.  PR had Aidan in his lap.  He thought I was annoying TM so he locked me up.  Usually TM rescues me after a bit.  All she did yesterday was say "hi, Lowri".  She slept in the chair, slept on the sofa and slept in bed.  Then last night, she was in bed a full nine hours!  I think she is better today.  At least she got dressed!

We went back to town to pick up the turkey.  It has been thawing in the refrigerator since Friday.  TM had to also get MC's and Miss Kathy's presents.  I am going to play outside and then I think I get a bath. 

On the duck report.  TM has three males left.  She is beginning to think they will live.  The third one is pretty sore, but he is moving around.  The other two are moving pretty well.  The two missing ones have not returned.  TM is still hopeful. 

Holy Cow!

Lowri - TM just now discovered that DAISY, the Peeking Knees, killed all my ducks!  PR and TM couldn't find her and assumed that she had gotten locked into the shop.  TM went to find her and to put my ducks away.  She checked the shop, no Daisy.  She called and called.  Daisy yipped that she was down at the barn.  When TM got there, she saw the mayhem.  My poor ducks!  Two were missing, several were dead, TM had to put three out of their misery and there are four that she put back into their pen.  She doesn't think they will live, but wanted to give them a chance.

TM keeps repeating, "She is a dog, she is a dog.  That is what dogs do."  She gave Daisy a bath - and didn't drown her in the process. 

On a brighter note, here is a picture of my lambs.  Mine is the closest one that is looking at the camera.  She is a beauty!

More Excitement Next Door

Lowri - Just before TM's client arrived, TM saw that the police were massed outside.  She watched and saw the whole thing!  The alleged bad man (Mama Penni would be proud of me) came out next door and put his hands up.  The police arrested him.  They had a DOG with them!  He was a Belgian Mal in Noise.  He was very excited but well controlled.  It was very exciting!  I was proud to see a dog working.

Then the heat went off in our house.  The fan was blowing, but it was blowing cold air.  TM was freezing!  I thought it felt great.  TM called the heat man after she checked the electrical box.  For grins, she turned the heat on and it worked!  Talking to the heat guy later, he said the high wind had caused similar problems for a number of people.  She will call him if it happens again.

Now we are at PR's place.  It is chilly out, but TM doesn't think any of the ewes are going to lamb just yet.  I hope I get to see my lamb tomorrow.  She is growing so fast!

Games

Lowri - When TM got done with work, and the computer, and supper, and cleanup and...we played some games.  I pretended not to know "take it" again.  TM still cheered when I gave it back after she put it in my mouth.  I was happy enough with the game that I accidentally took it once when she held it out.  TM was very happy with me. 

Then she stretched out on the floor face down.  She made some weird noises and laughed and laughed when I tried to get to her face.  I jumped all around and shoved my nose hard under her arms.  My tail was wagging so hard!  I was woo-woo'ing at her too.  We had the best time!  When she started to get up, she pinched at my paws.  I went NUTS!  I grabbed at her hands and her sweater.  I attacked everything that moved!  Man, that was fun.

TM is Excited

Lowri - TM and I have been playing a game for months now.  She has a dumbbell she is trying to get me to take - and hold.  I pretend I don't know what she wants.  TM will take my small canvas fish and the dumbbell into the hall.  She throws the fish and says"take it".  I race down the hall, grab it and bring it back.  TM cheers!  She does this a time or two.  Then she holds the dumbbell out and says "take it".  <snicker>  I look at her like I have never heard those words.  She puts the dumbbell in my mouth and makes me hold it.  When she says "give", I promptly spit it out and TM goes wild with praise and throws the fish again.

This last week I have been kind of letting on that I know what she wants.  Tonight, I actually took it two of the four times.  TM went wild and hugged me and ruffed up my coat.  I leaped up and kissed her nose - there might have been teeth involved.  Lest you are too impressed, TM was kneeling at the time, so it wasn't a BIG jump.  I grinned a lot and barked at TM.  This might end up being a fun game.

Tuesday in Town.

Lowri - We are back in town and TM is working, working, working.  I did get to sit on her lap for a few minutes.  I was in her arms on my back.  She was blowing in my face and teasing me.  I clicked my teeth at her nose and then licked it instead.  She laughed and went "Ewwwwwww".  I grinned back and tried to do it again.  TM makes me happy when she wants to play.

Church Lamb

Lowri - TM took my lamb to church with her this morning.  I think she got baptized or something.  Oh wait, I remember now.  She got to participate in the children's service.  TM says she was very, very good.  She didn't make any noise or messes.  She sat on TM's lap and charmed everyone.  I am very proud of my lamb.

MC's sheep, Snowy, surprised us with lambs this morning.  TM and MC knew she was going to lamb, but thought it would be January.  They are nice healthy lambs and so very cute.

I got to play with my unstuffed fox toy.  It had two squeakers but no stuffing.  I happen to know this as Aidan and I disemboweled the fox.  The squeakers came out, but there was no stuffing at all.  TM really liked that part.  I am not sure how I got the fox.  I mean I know I got it from MC, but Corgi Claus sent it to MC.  I got lucky and got it because MC belongs to me.  I also own TM and Mama Penni.  I told Aidan he couldn't play with it.  I told him pretty loudly, but he didn't listen.  PR did.  He wanted to put me in lockup, but TM said I wasn't serious about it.

Snowy's lambs are on the left.

Here is the picture of our new lambs.  Mine is the one in the middle on the right.  Isn't she beautiful?  I wonder if she is tasty.

Hard Job

Lowri - When we are in town, I sleep loose in the house.  I have had that privilege for about five months.  It is my job to make sure everything stays safe and sound.  After all, PR isn't here to do it.

At night, I sleep on the floor at the foot of TM's bed.  I picked that spot, because that is where she puts her dirty clothes.  I lay on them and make sure they don't disappear <G>  Of course, in the morning, TM puts the clothes in the hamper in the bathroom. 

When TM opens up the sitting room, I go in there, jump up on the sofa and make sure no one comes in the back door.  Just because I am guarding the place with my eyes closed - and I am snoring - doesn't mean I am laying down on the job.  <snicker, snort>  Laying down on the job...

If the sitting room isn't open, I guard from under the computer desk.  I keep my head on TM's feet.  She likes that, because her feet stay warmer.

Really, taking care of TM is a full time job!  I am doing my best. 

Birthday Present

Lowri - Look what TM gave me for my birthday!  She is all mine.  Mine, mine, mine!  I wasn't quite sure what to do with her, especially when she looked at me.  But, I am going to take really good care of her.

TM - Wah, wah wa

Lowri - You mean she has to live with Big Mama?  Whew, I didn't know how to feed her, or burp her, or clean up after her...well, I do know how to clean up after her <G>

 

It's My Birthday

I went from this...

Lowri - It's my birthday, and I'm having a Party!  We are going to party all day and tonight I get to see the triplet lambs.  TM is going to let me see them because it is my birthday.  I am TWO years old.   For my pictures, TM put in a Before and an After shot.  TM says we have been on a ride.  I don't remember riding anything.

To THIS!

From this...

To THIS!

Not the Only Baddog

Lowri - I am NOT the only Baddog in the area.  Someone, who shall remain nameless, (but is my half-sister and lives in Knoxville), led a grand escape yesterday.  Once all four dogs were free - I am thinking she opened the gate for them - she led the grand attack.  They got in the field with the lambs.  You might think sheep are stupid, but they are NOT!  All four of the lambs crashed through the fence and escaped with their lives.

Mama Cheryl - oops, the dogs' mama - got home from work after dark and found the Baddogs in the front yard.  The lambs were long gone.  She looked for them and called to them, but not one sheep was to be found.  Fortunately, the sheep came home overnight and put themselves away - there was grain involved and sheep LOVE their grain.

So all is mostly well, and the leader of the jail break is now in solitary confinement.  There were some scrapes and stuff on the pack - apparently, chasing sheep without human involvement is FUN!  I wish I had been there!

Triplets, We Have Triplets!

Before lambing - Friday evening

Lowri - For those of you who missed Big Mama's before picture, I am posting it again.  Then I am posting photos of the triplets.  Of course, I should note that I HAVE NOT SEEN THEM!  TM didn't want me to upset Big Mama.  I would have only tasted the babies!  I wouldn't have eaten them.  Well, at least not until Big Mama wasn't looking <G>

Dog...remember, I am a DOG!  I eat things.

Like TM would let me anywhere near her new lambs.  They are locked up in the barn.  Thor is the only one who has seen them!

Sunday Night about 11:00 PM

Monday Morning about 7:30 AM

Oh Boy...

Lowri - Today was NOT a good day.  My name was LowriBaddog.  That is never good.  I did a sloppy job herding.  I wanted to race around.  I totally forgot how to do outruns.  I don't know what happened.  TM was not pleased with me.  She finally figured out that I lost my mind because I will be in heat soon.  I am relieved that there is a reason for me going brain dead.

MC came up and worked Dinah.  They did very well.  TM gave them some pointers, but I think they are ready for the trial. 

Treasure worked well on the ducks.  TM was smiling big when they got done.  Treasure doesn't like doing Aways.  She barks at TM and doesn't go wide enough.  Kind of like me only I don't bark.

MC also brought Bruce (Brutus was his name.  He is a rescue dog).  TM held him while MC did his toenails.  Poor Bruce hadn't had his toenails done in forever.  He was VERY good and didn't offer to bite TM once.  Of course, MC brought a muzzle just in case.

Big Mama is probably going to lamb tonight.  She barely wanted to eat grain.  TM is hoping to get some pictures.

TM has been Busy!

Lowri - TM has been too busy to post my thoughts.  I tried and tried to hang on to the words I wanted her to type, but I think I saw a bunny.  Oh well.  I have talked to TM about saving time for me and my thoughts, but she just sighed and said she would try.  She has been busy making a living.  I appreciate it, 'cause that means I get to eat and go to dog shows.

When we got to PR's place tonight, TM stopped to check on the sheep.  Even though it was dark, she wanted to see Big Mama.  More to the point, she wanted to see if she was still BIG Mama.  What do you think?

Maybe we should rename her to Huge Mama?

Cheese and Baths

Lowri - TM is learning how to make cheese.  I say "YUM."  I am getting to clean up and I get the whey on my breakfast.  She has made yogurt, yogurt cream cheese and queso blanco.  I am waiting the opportunity to expand on my culinary experience.  Maybe I should apply for a position as a judge on Chopped.  I could offer all sorts of suggestions.

I got my second bath of the week.  I look gorgeous!  TM bathed me and then blew out my coat.  I am being a very good helper in the tub.  I turn around when she asks me too.  When we are done, if TM hurries, I wait until she has a towel up protecting the bathroom.  Then I SHAKE.  TM laughs and rubs me with the towel.  Then she holds it up again and asks me to shake again.  I do!  TM finishes drying me and then lets me jump out of the tub.  I run for the hallway and then SHAKE again.  I race around for a minute and use the carpet as a towel.  Then TM blows me dry.  Baths are fun!

SQUIRRELS!

Lowri - TM got up early this morning and took me for a walk.  There were squirrels everywhere!  I dragged TM up and down the street.  Some of the time, she ran with me.  I got to go fast as long as I trotted.  It was great!  I was totally worn out by the time we got home.  I had the BEST time.  Man, I have been dreaming about chasing squirrels all day.  I wonder if they taste like bunnies? 

Whoa - I almost heard Kearney saying "LOWRI!" when I thought that about eating squirrels.  He had no problem with the idea, he just tried to keep things less...hmmm, less revolting?...for our readers.  I am sure he is chasing all sorts of critters up in Heaven.  He was a good big brother. 

Fortunately for me, I don't dwell on this stuff.   TM and MC think I am A.D.D.  "Attention Deficit Disorder/ADHD - You often have difficulty staying focused and attending to daily, mundane tasks. For example, you may be easily distracted by irrelevant sights and sounds, quickly bounce from one activity to another, or become bored quickly."     Yup, that is me!  I think it runs in my family too - NOT that I am naming names or anything! 

A Bath on Monday?

Lowri - I got a bath today.  It is only Monday!  I understand Wednesday, Thursday and Friday baths (4-day, 3-day and weekend shows).  I understand muddy dog baths.  I understand at-the-show baths, but MONDAY baths?  What is up with that?

TM - Wah-wa-wah-wa-wah.

Lowri - I'm shedding?  So what?!?!?!  Dogs SHED!  That is not news!  Just 'cause we shed faster with warm baths?  I have to have a bath for that?

TM - Wah-wa-wah-wah.

Lowri - SEVERAL A WEEK?  Are you serious?!?!?  <sigh>  At least I get a massage with my bath.  And I get blown out so I look FAB!  <sigh>  The trials and tribulations of a show dog.

Still a Big, Fat Ewe

Lowri - Well, Big Mama wasn't as close to lambing as TM thought.  She STILL hasn't popped!  Even MC says she looks like she is going to explode.  Fortunately, our weather is gorgeous, so Big Mama will be staying out in the field for the next week.

MC came up and brought Dinah and Treasure.  Treasure got to work the ducks first.  I have to say, I was impressed with her.  She is really listening to TM and is showing a LOT of instinct.  TM is working her on things like scooping the ducks out of a corner, and looking back to pick up a stray.  She is polishing her up for our trial that is at the end of the month. 

Dinah is a bit stressed.  TM has been pushing her so MC can work her at the trial.  MC will work her in Herding Tested on the first day of the trial.  TM can't work dogs that day, because her sister is going to judge the trial.  I think I should be entered.  I might get a break.  Surely Miss Kathy would give me a good score - after all, I am going to give her one of my best puppies!  I know, I know, Miss Kathy doesn't take bribes.

I got to do a little work on sheep and ducks.  TM is trying to give me lots of opportunity to be the farm dog rather than the trial dog.  I am beginning to see the point in some of the work.

Big Fat Ewe

Lowri - Our ewe has NOT lambed.  Boooo!  I want lambs to chase...er, play with.  TM is going to put her out in the field tomorrow.  The weather is supposed to be decent for the next four or five days.  Maybe if she is out moving around, she will hurry up and lamb. 

I love it at the farm with PR.  I get to sit in TM's lap all evening.  Even if I have to share the lap with Daisy, I get to sit snuggled with TM.  That is good.  I LOVE snuggling.

No Lambs Yet

Lowri - TM and I made a mad dash out to the farm last night after work.  TM wanted to check on the ewe in the barn and clean her pen.  No lambs.  I don't know what she is waiting for.  She is in a warm barn.  She has plenty of food and water.  She gets grain every day.  Ohhhh!  That is why.  Who would want to leave under those conditions?

TM got us up early this morning so we could head back to town.  She stopped at the barn to check on Big Mama.  Still no lambs.  TM fed her and the other sheep and noticed that Thor was out.  She called for him and saw him over on the next property.  He hustled over so she would pet on him.  TM has no idea where he gets out, but is sort of resigned to it.  At least he puts himself back when he wants to.  I think her next fix will be to put up electric fence along the current fence.  THAT may stop him.  I know I don't like it!

TM's Birthday

Lowri - Today is TM's birthday.  I am going to make it the best ever.  I am going to take her herding, 'cause I know she loves herding when it is cold.  I am going to eat all my breakfast.  I am going to sit in her lap all evening, so I can keep her warm.  I am going to try to remember that I am being good when she lets me out, but let's face it, I can't keep two thoughts in my head at the same time.  If I see a bunny, I am gone!

I am glad that TM is only about 8 years old, that means I get to keep her for a long time yet.  That is important, because new people are so hard to train.  You have work hard to get them wrapped properly around your paw.  It takes a lot of shaping training.  I am still working on PR.

Backup Quarterback

Lowri - I have been reduced to the roll of backup quarterback.  The go-to quarterback was a pan of grain.  TM moved Big Mama into the barn to lamb.  She got a pan of grain and called Big Mama, who tromped right into the pen in the barn.  She will do anything for some corn.  I was there as a reserve in case the grain didn't work.  I never got out of my crate!  I am so bummed.  Thrown over for some corn.  I have talents!  I have skills!  I...was benched.

Saturday at PR's

Out standing in my field

Lowri - I had a very good day today.  PR fed me and let me out.  When TM got up, we went herding.  I was very, very good.  I worked six of the sheep and then cut the ram and one of the crazy ewes out.  TM doesn't like me calling the two ewes crazy, but they are!  I am working on making them not crazy.  It is slow work.


 I got to take the ducks out on the hill.  MC got there then.  She took some pictures of me.   I am outstanding in my field <snicker>  Get it?  Out standing...okay, so it is an old joke.  I am a puppy!  I think it is funny!


Dinah got to work my sheep.  Whew!  Was she ever bad!  She chased and chased the sheep and then tried to keep them away from TM.  She didn't want TM interfering in her fun.  She finally saw the error of her ways.  Then MC worked with her.  She was very good for MC.

Treasure worked my ducks.  TM was very pleased with how she worked.  We are trying to get ready for a herding trial the end of December.  I don't think Dinah is trying very hard.  But as this will be her first trial, she can be forgiven.

I am bringing my ducks back to their pen.

Thanksgiving Holiday

Lowri - I am thankful that I got to spend Thanksgiving on TM's lap.  PR's son came over to spend time with us.  He tastes good.  Daisy and Aidan kept trying to sit on him.  TM wouldn't let me.  I don't know why, he has a nice-sized lap.

TM did a lot of cooking.  It smelled great!  Daisy and I helped TM.  If you sit in the kitchen while she cooks, you get to scarf up whatever hits the floor.  TM is kind of messy.  We are good with that.

When they sat down to dinner, we got locked in our crates so we wouldn't be drooling.  Aidan, in particular, didn't think that was fair.  He likes sitting with his head on PR's lap.  That is to remind PR to feed him.  TM takes a dim view of that.  She has taught Aidan to respect her when she tells him to "go away".

WHAT?!?!?!?!  I just saw on Facebook that some of my friends go to eat Thanksgiving dinner too!  WE didn't.  All I got was my regular raw dinner.  Yes, it was yummy, but that isn't the point.  I should have gotten a Thanksgiving dinner.  The turkey smelled great!  So NOT fair!

Back in Town

Lowri - Boy, we only had a short time with PR.  I made the most of it by getting in his lap every time I could con Aidan into getting out.  Boys are so gullible!  I would ask him to play with me, he would get down and I would jump into PR's lap <snicker>  PR would pet on me because I was so clever.

MC came over and brought Dinah and Treasure.  Boy, that Dinah is a sneak.  TM says she is almost as sneaky as I am...Huh?   Anyway, Dinah tried everything to get to the sheep.  She even tried sneaking through TM's legs while she was being loved on.  TM fried Dinah's poor brain by making her sit and wait.  Dinah argued, ignored, resisted and FINALLY gave up and sat there.  TM let her work the sheep just a little and then gave her lots of praise.  MC came in and walked around the field with Dinah.  They decided not to try frying her brain any longer. 

Move along, little duckies, move along.

Then Treasure worked ducks.  She was brain-dead.  She is in heat and couldn't seem to get her act together.  TM said she had moments of brilliance.  MC said that on the bright side, Treasure would have a brain again before the trials.

I worked the sheep a little at the start and then got to put the ducks away.  MC took a picture of me doing it.

Hmmmm

Lowri - Today the show was interesting.  Ms. Libby went BOB, the Winner's Dog was Best of Winners, I was Best Opposite Sex?  Fortunately, the steward pointed out the problem - both Libby and I are bitches!  I went Select and Babbo went BOS.  Whew - I was pretty sure I was a girl!  Leo also went Select.

MC took a picture on her phone of Dinah and me chewing on an antler.  Yes, MC got us two!  We just both wanted to chew on that one.  Of course, if one of us picked up the other one, we both wanted it.  We were very good girls as we chewed together.  No faces or feet were "accidentally" chewed on.

AWWWWWWWWWWWESOME!

Lowri - MC bought me a MOOSE antler to chew on!!!  (TM here - not a whole moose antler, just a cross-section.)  I LOVE IT!!!  Dinah got one too.  I have stolen hers many times already tonight <VBG>.  I LOVE THEM!!!

TM - wah, wa wah, wa wha, wha, wha.

Lowri - What?  The dog show?  Oh yeah.  I looked wonderful and moved wonderful-er.  TM was VERY happy with me.  MC looked fab, too!  Together we were uber-fab!  Every time my attention wavered for a second, MC moved her hand closer to her pocket where the liver lives.  I was DROOLING!

Libby went Breed and took a third of the group place.  I took Select and had lots of fans ringside.  Ms. Bossi won everything else with her three dogs.  She is a nice lady.

Dog Show Tomorrow

Lowri - Whoo-hoo!  We are off to dog shows in the morning!  I LOVE dog shows.  MC gives me liver and chicken and steak and...  TM gives me massages all weekend.  I get to sleep on the bed.  I get to - well, just do EVERYTHING!  People to taste, shops to check out, bait to snuffle up!  Whoo-hoo!  I am so excited!

Monday, Monday

Lowri - TM slept in this morning.  It's a good thing PR got up.  He fed us.  I LOVE PR!  When TM finally got up, we were all outside, supervising PR as he worked.  It was a nice morning. 

TM didn't do much except more laundry.  She loaded me up in the van this afternoon and headed back to town.  We stopped at the barn first and made sure all the feed bins were full.  Then TM stopped at Yoder's Market.  It is a big Amish-type store.  She spent a lot of money.  They have a lot of the gluten-free stuff.  When we finally got to town, TM had to get set up for her evening clients. 

My idea of a good time!

As you can see, I have not gotten much attention today.  I tried being patient.  It has been very hard!  At least while I was outside, I got to play in the rain.  I was VERY wet when I came in <G>  Yes, I could have stayed dry and warm, but what fun is that? 

TM is sorry to be using so many old photos, but they fit so well (and she has to charge the battery in the camera).

Sunday as a Herding Dog

This wasn't today, but it was how I worked.

Lowri - I had a good day today.  MC came up and brought Dinah and Treasure.  I got to shout out directions for them.  I also got to be the stock dog in getting the right set for Dinah.  That was fun.  TM let me work the whole group and then work both sets after I split them up.  I did it very quietly.  TM was very proud of me.

I also got to work the ducks.  TM had me move them along the fence line, halfway around the arena and back.  I kind of have the idea, but it is pretty boring.  TM seems to really like it when I just hold them to the fence and move them along.

What Kind of Herding is That?

Lowri - Whew, it has been a busy week for TM.  She finally got around to my "daily" walk on Thursday.  I led the way at a good trot while she power-walked through the neighborhood.  Occasionally, she would run while I power-trotted.  We had a good time.

Last night, TM had me round up the ducks so we could take them to PR's place.  One of my ducks was MISSING!  He was just gone.  There were no feathers, nothing.  TM checked my yard just to be sure.  Nope, no feathers.  A predator must have caught him and taken him away.  TM caught the others, put them in boxes and took them to PR's.  You notice I said TM caught them?  I was being very, very bad.  It was GREAT <G>

This morning, TM finally saw Thor get out.  He went to the gate, stuck his head between the pipes, turned sideways and shoved one shoulder, then the other through.  When they were out, he dragged his rear through.  TM put up some wire on the gate to stop him from getting out there.  Who knows if she has it all fixed.  She may just be teaching him to work harder to get out, he is pretty smart.

I got to bring my sheep out of the field and up on the hill to the alfalfa patch.  The sheep thought that was awesome.  TM kept trying to have me be a fence on the open side of the field.  I am NOT a German Shepherd!  I had a hard time trying to figure out what she wanted.  TM finally gave up and we took the sheep back to their field.

I then went and worked ducks.  We are not doing any course work.  TM is working with me to control my ducks and move them with control and finesse.  That is BORING!  At least I get lots of praise when I listen.

Wednesday

Lowri - It has been a quiet couple of days here.  TM couldn't sleep at all last night.  She spent some of the time cuddling me.  I was glad I was here for her.  Tonight, we went and watched TV in the sitting room.  I immediately flopped onto my back, with my head in TM's lap.  My belly needed some rubbing.  It was great!

We haven't been doing much herding here in town because it has been getting dark so early.  I don't know why we can't herd in the dark.  I can still see and smell what is going on.  People are pretty limited.

Sunday at the Dog Show

Lowri - I went back to the dog show today.  TM gave me a bath.  It was chilly!  I felt pretty good afterwards.  I made sure that when I shook my coat, I coated TM liberally with the cold water.  She moved quite briskly afterwards too <VBG>

I took a Select again to Libby's BOB.  TM didn't really like how I moved, so she took me to see the chiropractor.  The lady worked on TM, MC and me.  We all felt much better when she was done with us.  I was moving much smoother afterwards.  TM is going to try and keep me straight for a couple of weeks until my next show.

Dinah won her class, but that was all she did.  Our friend, Missy, went RWB.  She belongs to Ms Kathy Davis.  TM and MC cheered for Libby in the group place.  She won a third of it.  She looked very nice.  MC commented on how Libby had lost a little weight.  She was looking at me when she said it.  I see more short rations in my future.

We are back at PR's place.  I am sacked out on TM's lap.  I feel great.  It was a good weekend.

Another Great Day!

We had to be at the dog show fairly early today.  MC brought both Dinah and me.  TM showed up while MC was grooming Dinah.  MC was a bit disgruntled to see that Dinah had found something AWESOME to roll in.  All of her neck was FILTHY!  I was so jealous!  I would have rolled in it too if I had known about it.

When we got down to the ring, I met an awesome young lady.  She smelled and tasted GREAT.  Her name is similar to mine.  It is Lauren.  It means Laurel-Crowned.  My name means Laurels.  She petted my belly.  I liked her.

We didn't have as good a day today at the dog show although it was still okay.  I went Select to Libby's BOB.  Miss Dinah took a second place.  Since I wasn't going to be in the group place today, I got to go home with TM.  She let me get the ducks out of their pen and give them a good working-out.  TM had me drive them up and down and up and down and up and down and up ... you get the idea... the field.  She wanted me to make them go straight and she didn't want to tell me how to do it.  I figured out what she wanted from me and settled in to work.  When we were done, I got to take them out into a big, unfenced field.  We did some more straight lines.  That was much harder to do because the ducks didn't have any idea what we were supposed to be doing.  Neither did I.  I am not positive TM knew what we were doing either.  It was interesting though, and I got lots of praise for doing it.

Now I am in TM's lap.  I am trying really hard to stay awake so I can tell her my thoughts.  It has been a big weekend and we still have another day to go.

Friday at the Dog Show

Lowri - I am having the very best time!  Miss Kim is visiting with MC and she brought some of her SkippingKeys.  They are the cutest little black dogs and they can run and bounce.  I get to chase and play with them.  It is so much fun!

At the dog show yesterday, I went Select to Ms Sheri and Libby's Best of Breed.  Baby Dinah went Winners Bitch and Best of Winners.  Today, Ms Sheri and Libby went Select to ME!  Sadly, the judge at the group place could not see how beautiful I am.  But, Baby Dinah went WB again!  I am having the best time this weekend - and we have two more days to go.

I went home with MC so I could tire out the SkippingKeys.  They need me to wrestle with.  I found a few more pictures for TM so she won't be lonely tonight.

This is one of TM's favorites!  All my siblings and me (on the right, in the back).

I was a herding prodigy.

The duck didn't need his tail feathers.  KIDDING!  I did not pull them.

Pictures for TM - So She Won't Miss Me

Face it.  I am just ADORABLE!

Aren't I cute :)

At the 2011 Nationals.  Learning how it is done.

Girls just want to have fun!

Dog Show Weekend

Lowri - We have four days of dog shows in Knoxville, starting tomorrow.  I am so excited!  I had my massage last night while I was sacked out in TM's lap.  She knows just how to find all the sore places.  I didn't know most of those spots were sore until TM started fixing them.

I have had my bath.  I got blown dry and then TM took me down to MC's place.  MC is going to keep me for a couple of days while TM finishes up her work week.

I was a VERY good and considerate puppy.  When TM was leaving, I ran to the door with her.  I pawed the door and asked TM not to leave me.  I cried great, big crocodile tears.  I made sure TM knew I would miss her.  As soon as she was gone, we started the PARTY!  Conga line anyone?

Lazy or Lovin'?

Lowri - Last night, PR laughed at me.  TM was sitting in her recliner.  I was on her lap.  Is that worth being laughed at?  I don't think so!  Okay, so maybe I was on my back, with my head on TM's lap, laying sprawled between her legs, with TM's blanket covering her feet, my stomach and as much of her lap as it could reach.  <Sigh> I could stay that way forever!

Tonight was almost as good - without any laughter!  TM and I are in town.  I nagged TM until she first played with me, then went into the sitting room with me.  I climbed onto her lap, flipped over and went to sleep.  YES, all four of my feet were in the air.  Yes, TM was rubbin' on my belly.  It was...AWESOME!

Lazy Day - Again!

Lowri - We had another lazy day.  PR let us out, let us in, fed us, let us out again and let us in - all before TM got up.  When she finally put in an appearance, PR went and took a nap.  They went shopping when he got up.  I thought we were going to be stuck inside all day again, but TM finally took me herding - even though it was raining. 

Thor was out again.  TM and PR can't figure out where he is getting out.  TM stood out in the rain and fixed the "next" most likely place.  I think she has fixed four places so far.  Only time will tell if she found the right place.

I got to work the wild sheep.  I had SO MUCH FUN!  They haven't been worked for a while because TM has needed calm sheep for lessons.  She finally figured out that if we don't work them, they will never be good working sheep.  I did a VERY good job keeping them with TM.  I did NOT bounce around - much.  I just drove them with TM.  I was very good!

When we got back up to the house, TM did pedicures on all three of us.  Aidan kept trying to distract her by licking her hands or face.  TM doesn't appreciate that.  Daisy whimpered a lot.  That is unusual for her.  She is probably still unhappy over being shaved.  TM did say it was a lot easier to do her toenails when all that hair wasn't in the way.  I was quite good.  I did a bit of jerking away, but it is cool out.  That and the little bit of wind made me want to be a bit of a pill.

Rain

Lowri - It's raining.  It has been raining since TM got back from church.  Everyone wimped out on herding - even TM!  I did NOT wimp out!  I WANT to herd.  I don't care if it is raining - that is why I have this double coat.  TM thought hard about the sheep in the two small fields and was pleased that she had thrown them a bale of hay yesterday.  That meant she didn't have to go get wet today.  I hadn't realized TM was such a wimp.  How am I supposed to get good at herding?  I NEED more work opportunities.  TM and PR are watching football.  She has a big pot of stew cooking.  I bet I don't get any of that either.  Good thing I am going to stay with MC this week.  Maybe I can convince her I am being starved.  I will practice sucking in my cheeks.

Locked up

Lowri - I have been locked up in the 10X10 foot kennel all morning!  I want out!  Although there has been a lot of work going on around here.  TM, PR and a guy they hired, hauled three plus trailer-loads of hay in from the field.  They got it all stacked and under shelter.  Now PR and the guy are working on firewood. 

TM shaved Daisy!  OMG!  Daisy looks silly.  You can sure see why she is called a PeekingKnees now.  Maybe it is a good thing I am locked up.  If TM is waving around shaving equipment, you do NOT want to be near it.  Poor Daisy.  TM says her coat will grow back in no time.  Apparently, PR hadn't kept her brushed well enough, Daisy had a few mats that needed some help.  TM helped them all right!  Whew.

Good Walk Today

Lowri - TM and I went for a good walk today.  We took the long way around the block or in our case, blocks.  TM walks fast and I am only allowed to trot.  If I try galloping, she tells me "trot".  I think it is more fun to gallop ahead, then stop and sniff, wag my tail at the neighbor dogs, tell EVERYONE what a great time I am having!  I can do most of that when I trot, it is just more...settled.  TM says she is helping my muscles to remember the trotting at speed.  I think that is silly, my muscles KNOW how to trot. 

I don't think I am going to get my walk tomorrow.  TM and PR plan on bringing in hay and building fence.  I know how this goes, I will be locked up in the kennel all day.  That is a drag!  Maybe Daisy and Aiden will be with me. 

Oh well, at least I get to sit in TM's lap all evening.  That is very nice.

No Walkies

Lowri - We didn't get to go for a walk today.  TM went to the doctor this morning.  No x-rays of her head or hips, she has to go once a year to get her medications renewed.  She got home just in time to get set up to work.  Then she worked until almost 8:30!  I told her I didn't mind taking a walk in the dark, but TM is a little funny about that.  She said we would try to walk tomorrow.

I did entice her to play "throw the fish" with me.  She throws my stuffed fish, I run after it and "woo-woo" all the way back to a cheering TM.  It is great fun and always makes her laugh.  Then I surprised her when she pulled out the dumbbell.  I relaxed my jaws and let her put it in my mouth.  Usually, I clamp my teeth together and make her work to put it in my mouth.  TM was so pleased with me, she threw my fish a couple more times.  I woo-woo'ed some more and we ended the game feeling very pleased with each other.

Walks In the Neighborhood

Lowri - I have had a great day.  TM took me for TWO walks!  Today we stayed in the neighborhood.  Each walk was at a good clip for TM and lasted about 20 minutes.  I got to see a bunch of the dogs I only talk to on the bark-a-phone.  It was great to finally put smells with barks.  We have a great bunch of dogs in the neighborhood (except for one of the three next door neighbor dogs).  We all sing together when trains go by.  The trains aren't real close, but we can hear the whistles.  We have some pretty good voices.

As to the neighbor's dogs, TM loves Chewy.  When he barks, you need to go see what is happening.  Wiggles is just cute.  She wiggles her whole body when you talk to her.  She doesn't bark hardly at all.  The "other" dog has the worst bark you have ever heard - Treasure included!  TM says her Angus sounded like a smoke detector when he was a puppy.  This dog is WORSE!  It is high-pitched and loud and he does it non-stop when I am out.  Papa Ron doesn't even like him - and he really likes dogs.

Anyway on our walk, I got to see squirrels and smell bunnies.  We walked by the local church while people were going in.  I wanted to go taste some of them, but TM wouldn't let me.  Some of them had very good taste in dogs.  They said I was beautiful!

I think I like this new plan TM has for getting us fit - except for that part where she starves me.

Pudgy Walk

Lowri - TM said I was pudgy and I need exercise.  I could return the favor to her, but what is the point?  She put me in the car and we drove over to the park.  We got to walk all over the place.  It was great!  you wouldn't believe all the smells.  TM walked fast and we got about 20 minutes in.  I think she should shape up pretty quickly...oops, forgot she was doing this for me.

TM is going to try and take me out daily.  Between that and STARVING me, I should drop a couple of pounds pretty quickly.  <sigh> It is a tough life.  Good thing I am beautiful <G>

Still Awesome

Lowri - I don't think TM properly conveyed my awesomeness this weekend.  I tried to tell her, but her typing just wasn't up to it.  On Saturday, I brought a wild lamb, who was bouncing like a deer, back to the pen twice!  He was loose, by himself, and I brought him back - WITHOUT putting him through any fences!  I went out behind him and drove him back to the other lamb in the pen.

On Sunday, I went up on the hill, BY MYSELF, and brought the sheep back to TM.  Most of the time, the sheep and I were out of sight!  Did I give up?  NO!  Did I come back to check in with TM?  NO!  I rounded up the sheep and brought them back to TM.  I listened!  I did not do my normal "run right at them and chase them until they run to TM for protection."  I LISTENED to TM direct me.  Okay, so I took them around the upper part of the field twice.  I figured out what TM was saying when I was a LONG way away!  I was AWESOME!!!!

Today, I moved stock for the dogs that were there for lessons.  I shouted out encouragement and directions to the dogs that didn't do it right.  I TRIED to help them.  That is hard to do when you are in a crate!  TM let me out to move the sheep or ducks into the field.  I am a useful farm dog.  I do NOT get the credit I deserve.   Just sayin'!

Today, I went and had preliminary x-rays of my hips.  Even though I cooperated, they didn't get me positioned correctly.  TM says the femur heads are well set and overall they think the x-rays are fine.  She says we will go somewhere else for OFA x-rays later on.  I have to be two before that can happen.  TM did say I was a chunk and my diet will continue.  BOO!

Awesome Dog

Lowri - I was the awesome dog today!  I did my herding on ducks - and stopped when asked to!  I mostly walked up and in general was an AWESOME dog!  When TM went to get the sheep, she used a pan of grain.  That generally works, but the sheep were being bad today.  They bolted for the hill.  MC got me and sent me to TM.  I went out into the big field and actually LISTENED to TM giving me directions. 

My usual mode for bringing in the sheep from up on the hill is to go straight at them as fast as I can.  I chase them around the big field a couple of times until they decide that they should head to TM for safety.  Today, I listened to TM - mostly.  I did an outrun and went up the hill.  Had I listened to TM completely, that would have been that.  But, I am still a puppy.  I won't be two until December.  I did listen enough that TM was very impressed with me!  She didn't have to climb the hill at all!

Then my little sister, Dinah, got to herd my sheep - after I tired them out for her.  She did a really good job too.  She actually could have passed an HT test today.  TM was proud of her.

Kearney's sister, Treasure, worked my ducks.  She is funny because she barks every step.  TM had her doing a bunch of different stuff.  She is working on lifting the ducks off the fence.  That seems to be a bit difficult for her, but she is a good girl and likes to please TM.

Saturday at PR's

Lowri - TM and I got home to PR's place last night.  TM cooked cooked some chicken breast to put on a salad.  It smelled wonderful!  I got NONE of it.  TM just wasn't in a sharing mood.  I did get to spend the evening on her lap.  That was pretty nice.

Today, PR got up and let us out, then fed us, then let us out again.  Finally, TM got up.  She let us out and put me in the kennel.  I had to stay there while TM and PR went to town.  They did some shopping and then FINALLY came home.

TM took me down to do some herding.  She moved some panels and built a new small corral for the lambs that she was selling.  They didn't like it at all.  I had to do some good work to put the three boys in the pen.  TM said I was very good.  I also got to work the ducks.  I did a good job moving them around the field.  Then the men buying the lambs got here.

It was very funny to watch.  The lambs, one at a time, kept busting out of the pen.  TM would have to go get me to bring them back.  By the last time, I was really ramped up.  My new name is LowriBadDog.  She said it often enough <G>  Finally, TM made the pen much smaller so she could catch the last one.  She told one of the men to stand in one spot to keep the lamb from jumping out.  She went in and cornered the lamb and put the collar on it so the man could take the lamb to his vehicle.   TM did tell me that she couldn't have caught the lambs without my help.  I was a very good dog - mostly.

It's Thursday - Already?

Lowri - Wow, this week is going fast!  TM has been very busy working.  She finally got a moment to breathe today.  Of course that is when TM's crazy tenant called and went off on her.  TM takes that better if they are actually paying their rent.  Oh well, TM didn't take it out on me, and that is all I care about.

Since TM had a moment to breathe, she went and voted today.  She says we all should vote.  I asked her when I got to go vote.  She handed me a cookie to shut me up.  Score one for ME!

With all the dog shows and working out we have been doing, TM has been noticing that I am all grown up.  She says that I look beautiful and just look like an adult.  Of course, then I went out and bounced at the ducks.  I may LOOK like I am grown up, but I have a very long way to go mentally.

We don't have shows this weekend, but I get to go to the vet this coming Monday.  NOT for head xrays.  I get to have my preliminary hip xrays done.  TM says if they look good, we are good to go with my upcoming meeting with my boyfriend.  That will probably happen in January.  She is starting to look forward to me having babies.  I hope I am a good mother...What?  SQUIRREL!! 

Back To Town

Lowri - We had a great day at PR's yesterday.  At one point, Aidan asked to get into TM's lap - it was empty at the moment.  She let him on and he curled right up for a nap.  I immediately asked PR for a napping place.  So there we were, I was on PR's lap and Aidan was on TM's.  Weird - but good.

I got to go herding with TM.  She had me help her with the ducks.  We did a lot of just moving up and down the field.  TM doesn't let me bounce.  That is too bad.  I LOVE bouncing!  I worked with her until I was walking with the ducks.  When she flanked me, I would bounce around the ducks <G>  TM just sighed and got me back to work.

Later in the evening, TM's back was hurting.  Rather than sit in the recliner, she sat on the floor right in front of it.  For some reason, that eases her back.  Since the recliner was empty, I hopped up there and curled up.  TM thought that was funny.  I thought it was practical.  I eventually eased around so I could put my head on TM's shoulder.  That was nice.  We stayed that way for quite a while.

This morning, we got up, fed the stock and drove back to town.  TM is going to be pretty busy this week.  That is good, because I need her to make more money for me.

Another Show Weekend Gone

Lowri - Well, another show weekend is gone.  I looked beautiful on Sunday too.  The judge thought I was pretty, but didn't give me part of the group.  She was really, really old, so maybe she couldn't see really well.   She was very nice anyway.  I always am happy to show to nice judges.

We got home to Papa Ron pretty late.  TM was happy to see him, me too.  I climbed up on his lap when Aidan wasn't looking.  When he saw me there, PR had me get off so Aidan wouldn't be too offended.  What ever happened to possession is 9/10's of the law?  First come, first served?  Oh well, nothing was going to change Aidan's mind, so I went and jumped on TM's lap.  Aidan immediately reclaimed PR's lap as HIS.

Today, we are pretty much just chillin'.  Well, I am.  PR is napping because his back hurts.  TM has done the laundry, the dishes and has mixed up a bunch of stuff to make trail mix.  I wish she would give me some.  It smells really good.

A Quarter of the Group

Dinah on her way to RWB

Lowri - TM, MC, Dinah and I got up really early this morning and drove to Nashville for the dog show.  I mean really, REALLY early.  We set up our area - I was supervising.  When we got to go show, Dinah was Reserve Winners Bitch.  TM got some really nice pictures of her moving. 

Dinah mugging small children

I went Best of Breed.  We got to go to our setup and spend a number of hours chilling out waiting for the group place to get ready for us.  Dinah got to go mug passers-by.  She was especially good at mugging small children.  They would see her and immediately fall down so they could pet her.  She was being very petable today.

Finally, I got to go to the group place.  I won a quarter of it!  TM was very happy.  She immediately called Mama Penni to tell her.  I heard the conversation.  TM was being very blase` about it <G>  but I could tell she was a bit choked up.  TM loves it when I win a piece of of the group.  The judge, Mr. Charles Olvis, was very complimentary.  He said I had bone, substance, moved well, held my topline and had a beautiful head.  MC told him he had given me my very first point.  I like him.   TM and MC got a picture of me with him and my big white ribbon.  I can't wait to see it!

More Bliss

Lowri - TM watched the VP Debate while rubbing on me.  I didn't get throttled once.  I got my belly rubbed and rubbed and my head caressed.  I LOVE being loved on.

TM is teaching me a new trick.  My grooming table is set up in the kitchen - not for grooming, so she can put things on it.  The last two days she has kept stuff off it.  She is teaching me to help her put me on the table.  Guess what!  She is bribing me!!!  It is working too.  She said, "feet up", put my feet on the brace and gave me a cookie.  About three times and I had it down.  DUH!  Food was involved!  She is also putting cookies on the table for when I get up there.  Man, I LOVE this new game.  I have gone so far as to put my feet on the table itself - it's a stretch, but I can do it.  I mean, there are cookies involved! 

Burp!

Lowri - TM scheduled clients totally WRONG today, so we had to get up early.  I figured she was just going to the bathroom so I didn't move.  I would be wrong, we were getting up to start the day.  TM worked on a couple of clients and then we had some time for us. 

I got to go for a quick jog up the street.  It was just a tad brisk, so I really enjoyed moving out.  When we got home, TM locked me in the yard while she went to check on early voting.  It opens on October 17th.  She plans on voting early, so she can get it done. 

After working on a couple more clients, TM made me some more raw food.  YUM!!!!  I got to pace around the kitchen and then leap into action whenever TM dropped food.  That is my job.  I am the chief cleaner-upper.  I am VERY GOOD at my job.  When TM was done putting all the food in containers, one container for each day, I got to clean up the pans.  BURP!  I am stuffed.  I am pretty sure that I could have cleaned even more pans if TM had them.  I am dedicated to my job as the cleaner-upper.   It doesn't matter if I am full, I WILL do my job!   Sadly, TM won't have to make more food for several weeks.  I also noticed that the containers weren't quite as full as they have been in the past.  TM is determined to make me lose that last little bit of extra weight.  All I can say is, "Look whose talkin' ".

Bliss

Lowri - I have spent the past two nights lounging on the sofa in the sitting room.  TM comes and goes.  When she is there with me, I curl up with my head on her lap.  When she is busy elsewhere, I stretch out and take up as much of the sofa as I can.  It is a Cardi thing.  If you are on a bed, you are required to lay crossways, with your tail extended and your head thrown back.  If you are on a queen-size or smaller bed, this means you own the bed and your person can't get in without displacing you.  Since you were there first, you get to complain mightily if you are moved.

But, I digress...The last two nights, when TM has been on the sofa with me.  Her left hand has been busy rubbing my belly while her right hand strokes my head.  My eyes pretty much roll back into my head.  It is BLISSFUL!  I could lay there all night.  It is very hard for me to come up with thoughts for TM to type when I am that zoned out in bliss.  In fact, she needs to quit typing and come back - right now!

Sunday in the Drizzle

Lowri - It was raining slightly today.  Because it was also just a bit nippy (52 degrees), TM thought about not herding today.  Let me tell you, this is PERFECT weather!  My coat sheds the water, and I have plenty of it to keep me warm.  Absolutely perfect, and TM almost didn't let me play in it.

I brought the ducks out of their pen and put them in the field, then TM took me over to work the light lambs.  I haven't herded in their fields before, so it was very interesting.  They have two fields that they live in.  Sometimes TM opens the gate and gives them the ducks' A-Course field too.  Today, we played in their two fields.  TM had me walk - BORING - with the lambs and stay off them - ALSO BORING.  I walked them around the field without direction from TM, except to slow down.  Then we went out into their other field.  TM doesn't like working in this field because it is a long triangle.  One side is the creek, the other is an electric fence, and the short side is the fence for the first field. 

TM doesn't like working near electric fences.  She doesn't want me to chase the lambs into it - or more likely, thru it.  She also doesn't want me to find out it is hot.  I wonder what a hot fence feels like.  I have never felt it.  Anyway, as usual, I was AWESOME!  I drove the lambs around the field and stopped their escape attempts.  I finished by holding them along the fence.  I prefer to hold them by being very close, but TM doesn't like that.  I stayed back a ways and TM told me how good I was.  It was great!

Then we went to the A-course arena and I worked ducks.  TM didn't want to do a regular course.  She had me drive them here and there.  I think it is weird that she doesn't want me to bring them to her, but it seems to make her happy when I drive them in a straight line.  I was very good with my speed today.  I didn't hardly make the ducks flap or run at all.  It was good to know that I made TM happy. 

Big Day

Lowri - I had a big day today.  TM went out and dug up the sweet potatoes.  Aidan, Daisy and I got to run around and help.  I checked all the vines to make sure there were no bunnies lurking.  I didn't want TM to get surprised by any wild bunnies.  I was quite disappointed that there weren't any out today.  TM was so busy, she didn't even pay attention to us when we went exploring.  We had a good time.  Eventually, she noticed we were having too good a time, so she called us back.

Then she picked all the tomatoes and moved the herbs into planters to put in the windows for the winter.  While she was busy with the herbs, she left the tomatoes on the ground in the box.  Aidan helped himself to two of the big, green ones.  TM scolded him and he tucked his tail and looked embarrassed.  I noticed he had put tooth-marks on both tomatoes really fast before TM caught him.  That meant he got to keep them.  SMART Aidan.

We got to go herding then.  MC came up and brought Miss Treasure and Dinah.  We all got to herd.  TM did a LOT of praising today for the herding dogs.  I love it when that happens!

MC did a lot of running up and down the driveway with me practicing my gaiting.  I am trying to learn to keep my speed up and keep going for the dog shows.  MC has been practicing running.  She is really GOOD!  Now I have to get my act together.

Another Country Visited my Blog

Lowri - TM and I are excited to report that we have had people from 63 countries that have visited our blog.  Our latest is a person from Guernsey.  I had TM look it up so I would know something about it. 

According to Wikipedia,  Guernsey ( /ˈɡɜrnzi/ GURN-zee), officially the Bailiwick of Guernsey (French: Bailliage de Guernesey, IPA: [bajaʒ də ɡɛʁnəzɛ]), is a British Crown dependency in the English Channel off the coast of Normandy.
The Bailiwick of Guernsey embraces not only all 10 parishes on the Island of Guernsey, but also the islands of Herm, Jethou, and Lihou. Furthermore, the Bailiwick includes Alderney and Sark, each of which has its own parliament.
Although its defence is the responsibility of the United Kingdom, the Bailiwick of Guernsey is not part of the UK despite popular belief; and while it participates in the Common Travel Area, it is not part of the European Union.
The Bailiwick of Guernsey is included (along with the Bailiwick of Jersey) in the geographical (but not political) grouping known as the Channel Islands.

I am so thrilled that there are even MORE people that I want to meet and taste!  TM is always surprised that there are people from all over the world that read my blog.  I am not.  I am a Corgi, a Cardigan.  We are universally lovable.  I am thinking that I could, and should, even be loved by extraterrestrials - and beagles.

TM is Repacking the Car

Lowri - TM is repacking the car.  She has put up one of the stow-and-go seats in the back and is busy setting everything back into the van.  Fortunately, she CLEANED the van first!  What a mess.  Even I was thinking it needed work. 

I do think someone - not me - should tell TM that she won't need that seat until the end of December when Miss Kathy comes to visit.  Two seats works just fine for right now.  One for TM and one for PR.  Or one for TM and one for MC.  We just don't have a need for three - well, almost never anyway.

We just got back from our run.  I think TM plans on taking me on a longer walk a little later, after she finishes work.  We were just practicing moving easily and moving like the wind, with some stops and stacking thrown in.  I was dragging TM along - she doesn't have a very fast top speed <G>  TM was very happy with how I worked.  I think I get a bath tonight.  That will feel so good!

The Hostess with the Mostest

Lowri - I got to play hostess to Aidan and Daisy last night.  PR came over to work on a dryer and brought them with him.  We played and played, then came in to rest.  I shared my sofa with them.  Aidan laid on PR and I let Daisy share TM with me.  I was very, very good!  When PR was off playing on the computer, Aidan was up on the sofa with TM.  He actually growled at me when I climbed up on TM.  TM whacked him!  He didn't do that again, although I kept a careful eye on him.  I even let them have my crates to sleep in.  I was a good hostess.

TM's eyes are finally getting a little better.  Her allergies have been bad this year.  She can hardly hear my thoughts when she is that miserable.  At least she remembers to feed me.

TM Forgot Her Computer

Lowri - I had a great time at the dog shows this weekend, but TM forgot to bring her computer.  I couldn't get her to write my thoughts without it. 

I went Best of Breed both days and my half-sister, Dinah, earned her first point on Sunday!  Dinah did a great job of being cute.  EVERYONE petted on her.  She climbed into their laps and tasted every one of them.  I wasn't allowed to climb on people, so I didn't get to taste very many of them.

TM has really bad allergies and they went crazy this weekend.  Her eyes were red, watering and swollen.  In the mornings, she went crazy sneezing.  I am use to hearing these explosions, but I noticed Dinah's eyes got a bit wide a time or two.

I didn't do anything in the group place.  TM and MC are still trying to get me to move out and gait faster.  I don't quite understand what they want, but TM says I am closer to it.  Sunday's judge looked like he appreciated me.  TM says I will get another chance to see him in the future.

Dog Show Weekend

Lowri - Whoo-hoo!  I get to go to a dog show this weekend!  We are going to drive up Saturday morning.  I don't even have to get up at the crack of dawn!  We don't show until 12:50.  I will get to be petted and pampered and I get to sleep in.  Life is GOOD!

Tomorrow night, I am getting a hot oil bath and a massage.  Oh man, my neck, back and legs are going to feel soooooooooo good.  TM is going to knead my muscles, work especially on what feels tight and then gently massage the joints in my feet and pasterns.  I am going to be so limber!  Every single part is going to move...well, like a well-oiled maching <giggle, snort>  Get it?  Hot oil bath, well-oiled machine?  I amuse myself sometimes.

I love having my own personal trainer.  I can nag TM until she gets up and does something with me.  She feels guilty because I have to be by myself while she works.  I don't have anyone to entertain me.  I tell you, if you do it right, you can really manipulate your person.  I sit beside her and poke and push until she gets up.  I got TM to play fetch with me in the hall every night this week.  She throws the toy, I run and get it and then woo-woo at her while I bring it back.  She always laughs when I do that.  She also makes me hold a dumbbell a couple of times, but then she goes back to throwing the toy for me.  The dumbbell is a small price to pay for getting my way.

Now that I have let her type my thoughts, I am going to nag her until we go to the sitting room.  When we are there, I will roll onto my back with my head on her lap.  TM will rub my belly as long as I lay there.  I have it made!