LifeWithDogs

My Beautiful Older Brother Joel

2011-10-01T15:47:00.000-07:00

Using the word Beautiful for a man may seem funny, but he truly was beautiful, inside and out. He had this long lovely hair, I was so jealous because my hair never looked as good as his, course he also went to great lengths to keep it that way, always conditioning it and sitting under the hair dryer. Mind you, this was the 70's, Men really worshiped their hair, ha ha.
Looking in the photo albums I notice Joel often had a child sitting with him, he was either reading to them or putting a toy together at Christmas, he was very patient. He had several girlfriends that had children, but he never had a child of his own. He made a point of stopping to visit Lance and I when we lived in Nebraska, I really enjoyed that, even a short visit from him kept us laughing for days, he had such a great talent for telling funny stories.
He had a huge kind heart and when it got broken, he couldn't bare to live another day, he ended his life October 1 1989, he was 32 years old, I have missed him terribly, for years my year went from September to November, I just blocked out October all together. This past year that I have had so many health issues to deal with I think of him more than ever, its important to deal with depression and those "low" feelings right away, and I do. I know he would be so proud of what we all became and how close our family is today. Sometimes I think of he and my other brother Jay who passed away in May of 1998 at the age of 40, looking down and laughing with us and I smile at the thought. They were both great Men and will always be missed.

Almost the end of January Already?!?!?

2011-01-24T18:47:00.001-08:00

Our family at My sisters for Christmas. She turned to the side along with me as my right eye was black and blue from retina surgery. Dad moved to a retirement center and is loving it. we visit him twice a week. My brother Jon is doing great, but living in Portland, so I dont see him near enough! Avery and Nixie are learning to live without Traz in the house, its taken us all awhile to feel Ok again. Lance built a lovely wooden box for Traz and his things (mainly his favorite red ball) it sits on a shelve in his room. We all still miss him a lot. My eye has not improved much, I am still blind in it and will be from here on out. 7 months and 3 operations later, all to no avail. I am still going to the eye doc's every 2 weeks and taking tons of med's to stop the swelling, but nothing really seems to work. Like Dad always says "this to shall pass"

Avery is 4 years old now and Nixie is nearly 7, hard to imagine, mostly because Avery still acts like a puppy! Ha..I love that about him. He is my constant companion, always at my side no matter where I am in the house, I love that about him too! 2011 will be a good year, I have a ton of things to be thankful for, a great family, wonderful husband, healthy happy dogs, a good job and a warm home. Life is good.

Rest in peace Mr Traz

2010-10-16T18:15:00.000-07:00

It seems like just yesterday that we drove to Washington State to look at a 13 month old GSD name Alcatraz. He was skinny as a rail, but the sweetest dog you could ask for. He took Lance by the hand and led him into the house of the people he lived with, it was the oddest thing I had ever seen. Traz had trained for a year to be a guide dog, but never could over come his barking at people when they came around a corner. He barked at me for the first couple of years he lived with us. He was my husbands dog, or so I always say, however he spent most of the last 6 years with me. I loved walking him, he was kind and friendly to other dogs and people. This picture is last year at a little house we rented in Bend. It was Traz's weekend...! Nixie and Avery stayed at the kennel. Traz had more fun this weekend than I ever remember him having. He even jumped up on the bed between Lance and I. He hadn't done that in years! Traz continued to go to work with us every day up until I became ill this past June, I couldn't handle all three anymore, so he graciously stayed at the house, never complained about being left behind. He started acting ill the past few months, just so tired after a walk. Then this month he stopped eating dog food. I was fixing him chicken noodle soup and eggs which he ate and enjoyed. On Monday 10/11 he got horribly sick in the afternoon and by evening I had to nearly carry him upstairs. Nixie slept with him for over an hour in the evening, something she hadn't done in years and years. At bedtime Traz got up, came in our room like always, and fell down next to the bed, soon after that we carried him down to the car and headed to the emergency vet clinic, He passed quietly sometime during "his last car ride" The vet guessed the he had cancer of the spleen. Its painless and has no cure, I was glad to hear both.

He was deeply loved, a great companion to all of his human and animal family and will be sadly missed.

Three to Love

2010-07-08T18:28:00.000-07:00

I still find it amazing that I have these Three wonderful dogs in my life, to live with and love every day....!

June came and went with me feeling horrible, I lost the site in my right eye (shingles) and am still fighting to recover from the illness. My spirit took a hard hit when they said the eye would not recover, but I notice that I can do most things just fine and am sure as time passes I will learn to forget that I only see out of the left eye.

I met a girl today that reminded me how much dogs mean in our lives. She lost her long time friend, I remember that pain and could see it in her eyes. Thank you for letting me meet you and help you in the only way I knew how. The pain will get softer as time moves on and you will always have the great memories you two shared.

Avery has been at my side constantly this past month, his love alone should be enough to heal my wounds and look I have two more...what am I complaining about....they will have me back to myself in no time. Today I am most thankful for all of my friends and family that have driven me to appointments, brought me chocolate and flowers and showered me with good thoughts and prayers. I am thankful for the best husband a person could ask for and a Sister that is always there for me, know matter what! I am thankful for my three furry ones that make me want to get out of bed each morning and thankful for another day to walk in the park and See the beauty in it.

Well, yes that sure is a Tiara

2010-05-21T18:40:00.001-07:00

Me, today, the morning of my 50Th year on this planet, hair uncombed, no makeup, in my reading glasses reading my birthday cards, and yes, wearing the tiara a friend (thanks Mel) got me to mark this special day, ha ha ha. If we cant laugh at ourselves now, when can we. I had a perfectly wonderful day, lots of love from friends, family and furry ones alike, time to reflect on what the past years have meant to me and what the future ones hold. I am truly one of the luckiest people on this earth, and I never forget that. The dogs are all well and doing great, I guess that's why I don't blog much anymore, or I just don't have the time, might be more the truth. Today I am most thankful for my health and for the love a good husband.

Avery

2010-02-25T16:54:00.001-08:00

This month marks three years that Avery has been a part of our family. The challenges continue with him, but seem farther between as he ages. Just yesterday he snapped at my face when I hugged him. I cried and he went to the corner and hid. He knows doing something like that is wrong, but the damage to him was done, and cant be undone. He forgets, as do I. I told him together we'll try harder to remember he is NOT like the other dogs when it comes to hugs and kisses. He is the sweetest, most gentle dog I have met and I do hate that he cant just be that, and has a past that caused him to distrust us humans. Today I am very happy to have Avery in my life to love going into our 4th year together. Traz and Nixie are both well and feeling good. Work is going good. My wonderful husband is feeling good and we are planning a few trips soon. My Dad is doing great as is my brother and sister. Life is good today.

A Dogs Life

2010-01-10T18:45:00.001-08:00

Avery loves sleeping in Lances recliner, or belly up on one of the many beds we have laying around our house, such a funny dog! We made all three pose for the Christmas picture in front of the fireplace, you can see how happy they were about that!?!?!?! ha ha ha.

Nixie is having trouble with seasonal allergies, but so far is holding her own. She doesn't take anything for them anymore and seems so much happier now. Avery is doing great, he and I have been walking a lot on the creek and river by our house and he listens good and is walking better on the leash. I feel in control of him, so that's saying a lot! He is still riding with Lance in the truck at work. Traz is sleeping a lot, but still enjoys his daily walk to the park and gets in a few good runs here and there. I have spoken to a lady at the park this past week who is trying to catch a stray cat, she has gotten close enough to pet it and is feeding it every day. Funny, the park seems quiet this year, this lady is the first new person I have met there in awhile. Maybe I'm not looking around!??!? I think I go through spurts when I don't see much around me, my mind is elsewhere. We had a great holiday with our family's. Dad is doing great and feels better all of the time. I started writing the other day at work, I'm not sure it will go anywhere, but maybe its a start to a new book, or maybe just away to get my thoughts in order, either way it feels good. Today I am most thankful for dry weather to walk in and a warm house to come home to. Healthy family and spending time enjoying them all.

Happy Holidays

2009-12-13T18:36:00.001-08:00

Sunset over the pacific ocean in Mexico and the view from our room. What more could two people ask for..! We had a great thanksgiving week in Puerto Vallarta Mexico at the Westin on the marina. This was our third time to this area/hotel and we found some great new things to do and see, just as we have every time. We hadn't been on a really good vacation in three years, prior to Avery's arrival, that is..! We met up with my brother, his girlfriend and their dog at the park today, we just took Avery and did he have fun...! We also met up with other dogs, of course and they all played nicely together. Avery got pretty dirty, but boy's will be boy's! Avery turned 3 this month, Traz turned 9 last month and Nixie will soon be 6 years old time is moving faster again. It was cold last week, unbearable for Oregon, in the teens. Our walks were short, so I'm looking forward to longer ones this next week. I took some pictures of the dogs while we decorated the Christmas tree yesterday, but haven't taken them off of the camera yet, so they'll have to wait until after the holidays. Today I am thankful for warmer weather, thankful my Dad is feeling good again and that my brother is always, only a phone call away. I am most thankful for my wonderful husband who turned the big 50 Friday, and did it gracefully and without buying a red sports car, ha ha! I am thankful to walk each day and rest in my warm bed each night.

October came and went

2009-11-07T09:30:00.000-08:00

It's fitting that October came and went without much notice on my part, it's been doing that, most years from the time my oldest brother unexpectedly passed away in October of 1989, in fact even saying October was impossible for many, many years. Strange how they say time heals all wounds, sometimes that saying is so true, and others, so false. I never recovered from Joel's death, life was just never the same for me. Much like it was for me when Shadow died. Maybe its the unexpected part, maybe its just the love loss part, who knows.

Dad finally recovered and is doing Ok. He's driving again and able to do all of his own stuff, so life is becoming more normal again.

The dogs were all sick with a parasite of some sort a couple of weeks ago, it was beyond bad. I hadn't ever had a dog that sick. We ended up following the vet's advice and gave them huge amounts of horse wormer (paste wormer) it worked and they were all back to normal in a week or so, of course my house, garage, office and car took a little longer to "be normal again" I sure wished I had fallen in love with a smaller breed of dog...!!!

The family picture above was taken the weekend before Dad went in for surgery, somehow Perry got Dad to smile, I love this picture of him, and us kids.

The hibiscus flower was a picture taken in Mexico, which we are going to in just over two weeks! We have not been on a real vacation in three years, just before we got Avery, so we're really looking forward to it. A week in paradise sounds awfully good right about now. Today I am thankful for everyone in my life being healthy, thankful for another mild winter day in Oregon so I can still walk the dogs and thankful for all of the people that help us with the dogs, to keep them well and take care of them while we rejuvenate.

Alcatraz Weekend In Bend Oregon

2009-09-27T13:37:00.001-07:00

We rented this little Chalet that sits on the back 10 acres of property near the Cricketwood B&B in Bend, its dog friendly. We stayed two nights and really enjoyed our time with Traz. He acted like he was at the park the entire weekend, off leash to run as he pleased. He even touched noses with a cow next door! Being on the other side of the mountains is special to us, it feels so open and free. Large ranges and lovely homes all around.

We have had a good , busy summer, but the past 5 weeks have been clouded by how ill my Dad has been. Lung cancer surgery turned into several hospital stays and to the nursing home for rehab, twice now. He is still down in bed and I am starting to worry he'll never get out. As a daughter, I'm not sure what my role should be. I want to go drag him out of bed, get him dressed and get him walking again, but when he say's he's to weak, my heart melts. I know if he stays in bed, doing nothing, his chances of ever getting out are slim. He wants to go home so badly, I wish that was enough motivation to get him going again, but it doesn't seem to be working. He looked at me last week and said, if you ever think about having surgery at 80 years old, think again. I will remember that. The will to live is a strong one.

Avery and I had our last fight, neither of us won. I bought the e-collar and started using on him 2 weeks ago, he's doing wonderfully and is nearly trained now. I did the same thing with Shadow and the same with her, I felt like I was giving up. Why couldn't I train her or him with out the collar?!?!?!? Well, I couldn't, so the "why" of the matter really plays little part in it.

Avery is smart, but willful, sweet like no dog I have ever had and will soon be the best trained of them all. Nixie is off all med's for her allergies and is feeling fine! It is a miracle. I love watching Nixie and Avery play, it brings tears to my eyes to see her well again. I cant believe winter will be here before we know it. Time is moving way to fast. Today I am thankful for great fall weather, green grass to play with the dogs in and a husband that takes over when I get to busy to keep up with work

Avery Park

2009-07-15T09:58:00.001-07:00

Avery park is(Nixie and Traz in the park) somewhere around two blocks from our shop. I have been walking our dogs there for 8 or close to 9 years now I think, 5 to 7 days a week. Back when we lived in Corvallis and Shadow as alive, we always took her and Traz to the park on the weekends too. Often, like yesterday when I was walking Traz, i thought of how much the park has given us over the years. It's a spectacular park and very large. When I was a kid, Dad use to take us there to feed the deer. They had this enclosed area with animals in it. The area is still there, but is now used to store equeiptment. There are several shelters for BBQ'S, an old train engine that kids love playing on. A horse shoe court, a community garden area. The Mary's river runs a long one whole side of the park, with a great walking trail along it. I have seen some really great things in the park over these years and a few not so great, that tested my ability to like people, more than I like dogs. We watch the wild flowers in the spring, the great redheaded woodpeckers in flocks and the osprey teach her young to fly over the river.
The heat of summer brings in kids by the dozens and the ground squirrles run ramped, teasing the dogs with their every move.
Deer are few and far between now, but once in a while we creep up on one eating someones corn or beans in the garden. Traz and I caught a couple making out on the river trail once, from the surprise on his face, I would venture to guess, she was not his wife. I really wanted to make a joke about telling on them, but of course, I did not! We quietly walked past them.
The park has given me endless gifts, the beauty of watching it at the change of every season, the room to run and play without worry, a place to cry in private when the mood strikes and a place to remember ones here and ones that are gone, but of course the greatest gift of all , was the day it gave me Avery. As I watch him become a wonderful, loving, sweet dog, I never forget the day we met, and how lucky I am to have him in my life. Tomorrow, he and I will walk in the park, just like every day, with joy in our hearts and a spring in our step, never knowing just what we'll see around the next corner.

Summer breeze makes me feel fine

2009-06-26T18:45:00.000-07:00

Summer brings on so many memories, great ones with my family and great ones with my husband and dogs. I think about Mom a lot this time of year, with all of the birds and new flowers blooming, they just remind me of her. Something funny, when I take the silverware from the dishwasher to the drawer I always think, I wish I had a daughter to tell this story too. (Mom and me some 25 to 28 years ago, she saying, you really need a good set of silverware. Me, not caring in the least about silverware! She, saved the betty crocker points off of cake mixes, gave me the money to put with it and Made me order that good set of every day silverware) At the time, it was just another annoying thing she did, now to this day, every time I use that same silverware that looks just like it did when new, I think of her and smile and think , this silverware is going to out live me! She was a very smart, giving and gracious lady. I hope to pass on some wisdom to someone, sometime along the way in my life. Today, I will be content to love my dogs the way , only I can. Treat my husband with all the love and respect he deserves and keep my family close to my heart.

No....That sure isnt a Dog

2009-06-20T18:30:00.000-07:00

What a fun day this was...

The top picture is me..with Conan..the goat. The lower picture is my Sister Jan...with Conan the goat too. This is one or her pack goats. She came over and we went for a hike at chip ross park. It was a lovely cool morning and we had the place to ourselves until right as we came down another couple with two dogs, one very large (irish wolf hound) and another small dog were just starting a hike up the side we came down. This was the second time in the past two months that I did this hike, I cant say this time was any easier, but it sure was a lot of fun doing it and talking! I really do see why Sis likes goats, he was very easy to hike with. Today I am most thankful for family.

Dogs....Wonderful Dogs............

2009-06-06T18:34:00.001-07:00

Nixie is peeking out the front door of our house as I worked in the flower beds...she's the only one I trust to stay in the house with the door open. Both Avery and Traz would run after anything that walked by, either to play with or be petted by..! This picture of Traz and Nixie I took at Avery park on Friday, the roses are so beautiful and both dogs did pretty good sitting still, although they seem to be looking off in the distance and not at me..oh well...., they still look lovely. Little Avery with his floppy ears...he is a heart warmer and sometimes a lap warmer too! Today I am most thankful that my back and hip let me work hard in the yard planting flowers. Thankful for good weather to work in and thankful all of the dogs are asleep right now.

Back tracking

2009-06-01T18:54:00.000-07:00

I have had a problem with my back and hips that has kept me from sitting for an extended amount of time, its been on going for the past 3 months, but I decided to try and work more on my blog anyway, as I miss being able write and post pictures here. Push past the pain, right?!?!?!? Maybe the doc will help me out tomorrow!

Me in front of a giant redwood in California a couple of months ago...now that's a tree!

Traz under the weeping cherry in the back yard this spring.

We have taking some really fun road trips this year, I have really enjoyed that.

Finally Avery is grown up and I am really enjoying him. Traz is getting slow, but doing fine, Nixie is her usual sweet self and less itchy this year than all the past years. Today I am most thankful for healthy dogs!

Nebraska Trip

2009-05-31T18:16:00.001-07:00

Our friends showed us this great park (Yanny park in Kearney,neb) it was truly beautiful, the tower is also a part of this park as well as several lakes and gardens. The columbine was growing at Harman park, so pretty. The flags are at the Kearney Cemetery. I think being in Kearney over the memorial day holiday was really special, I had forgotten how "red-white and blue" the Midwest still is, one of the many things we really enjoy about that part of the country. We found a few of the places we use to live, but some were gone, including our first home in Kearney after we married and moved there in 1979. The town has changed a lot in the past 30 years, but the people really haven't. Same great hospitality, people look you in the eye when you walk by, and say hello. I miss that friendly feeling. Getting to see friends (pictured above) was by far the highlight of the trip.

I missed the dog's , but for the first time in a very long time, I didn't worry about them. I knew they were safe and sound with Kathleen at her kennel. They felt and looked good when we picked them up, I was so pleased about that. Today I am most thankful for friends that welcome you even if you are unexpected! Thankful for my great traveling partner, who rarely complains even though he doesn't fit in a airplane seat. Thankful for the soft fur of a dog or three to wake up to each morning and thankful for a perfect summer day to plant new flowers in.

Alcatraz weekend

2009-04-26T09:06:00.001-07:00

We took Traz to the upper Calapooia river to swim and he LOVED it...! We found an area that was calm and had a nice sand bottom as he isn't a fan of rocks under his feet. I was throwing sticks for him, but most sunk to the bottom. As we're leaving he's still trying to get that last stick off of the river bottom! We took Nixie and Avery to the Kennel for overnight so Traz could have our undivided attention. This is the second time we've taken the dogs to this new, small kennel and they LOVE it. I am so happy to have found a place that I feel good about leaving the dogs, this is going to make my life so much easier. Traz didn't seem to miss Nixie or Avery, he was relaxed and enjoyed his two days of being an only dog. I walked him on his leash a few times, he loves that. He ate cookies for lunch and had every ones share of dog bones.

Tim is slowly recovering, but wont be coming back to work for a very long time, we miss him.

I read this in an e-mail and liked it
There comes a point in your life when you realize: Who matters,Who never did,Who won't anymore...And who always will.

So, don't worry about people from your past,there's a reason why they didn't make it to your future.

I struggle with people from my past not being a part of my life now, I feel guilty about not making more time for other people. Last week I had two guilt related dreams, one was I forgot Shadow at the shop. The other was I forgot to feed Creampuff and clean her stall. Shadow has been gone over 5 years and Creampuff (the horse) gone several. What the dreams meant, who knows, but I found it funny that in my daily life, I feel guilty about letting people down and in my dreams I'm letting animals down. Last week was the first time in years that I had just sat and thought, one of things that came to mind was why I don't blog like I use to. I really got burned out raising Avery. Two years of him 24/7 took a toll on me, more than I realized at the time. Now he is with Lance in the truck all morning, then they go to the park, then he sleeps most of the afternoon and is a joy to play with when he wakes up. I have time to think about something other than Avery! I wouldn't trade the years it took to get him healthy and raised for a more peaceful two years, he is worth every minute, but I am so thankful they are over! I am thankful for the new Kennel and that we are taking a vacation in May!

Just A Dog

2009-03-21T18:07:00.000-07:00

This was a musing in the pet press from our local humane society and it spoke to me in several different ways.
From time to time people tell me, lighten up, it's just a dog or that's a lot of money for just a dog.
They don't understand the distance traveled, the time spent, or the costs involved for just a dog.
Some of my proudest moments have come about with just a dog. Many hours have passed and my only company was just a dog, but I did not once feel slighted. Some of my saddest moment's have been brought about by just a dog and in those days of darkness, the gentle touch of just a dog gave me comfort and reason to overcome the day.
If you too, think it's just a dog, then you will probably understand phrases like just a friend, just a sunrise or just a promise. Just a dog brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust and pure unbridled joy. Just a dog brings out the compassion and patience that make me a better person. Because of a dog I will rise early, take long walks and look longingly to the future. So for me and folks like me, its not just a dog, but an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past and the pure joy of the moment. Just a dog bring s out what is good in me and diverts my thoughts away from myself and the worries of the day.

I hope that someday they can understand that its not just a dog, but the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being just a person. So that the next time you hear the phrase just a dog, just smile, because they just don't understand.

This week was difficult , to say the least. A long time employee and friend of ours had a massive heart attack, on the job. They didn't expect him to recover. I had to look in his lunch box for his wallet in hopes it would hold some info on where his wife worked, the first thing I saw when I opened the box was the light blue card from the vet , saying it was time for Charlie (their black lab) to get his shots. I broke down and cried a river. We had just talked about that the week before as we use the same vet. The dogs were what he and I always talked about. His Charlie is just a little younger than my Avery. Today their calling his recovery a miracle. He woke up with no sign of brain damage and kissed his wife and son.

Today, I am most thankful for the fact that life can change in a moment. Charlie will have his Dad back and I didnt have to put on that awful black skirt and jacket, but instead get to take pretty spring flowers to my friend and welcome him back. Life is good.

Spring is slowly coming to Oregon

2009-02-28T12:56:00.001-08:00

This is a picture of Nixie as a puppy. Lance made me a cd of pictures, I had forgotten all about it. I don't remember Nixie being so small, shes sitting in front of our raspberry harbor, they look huge compared to her. The other picture is of Multnomah falls. We hiked there last weekend. It was a dog free weekend, so we didn't take a camera, is shot was taking by Lance with his phone. I wonder why I don't feel we need a camera if the dogs are not a long?!?!?!? We dashed over to Washington, drove by Dog Mountain, I looked up at it and told the mountain, I will be back next year on my 50th Birthday to hike you! We hike several different areas that day and went to Bonneville dam and fish hatchery. It was a great weekend, very relaxing, but as always I was ready to pick the dogs up and so glad to see them all feeling fine. Today, I am thankful for the few flowers already up in the garden, thankful my Dad and Brother are both feeling well after having surgery last month. Thankful for a rain free day to walk the dogs and thankful summer is just around the corner.

Dog's...Wonderful Dogs

2009-02-07T18:35:00.000-08:00

What a great couple of weekends we and the dogs have had. The weather has been good, although we did run into snow today near Detroit Lake. Avery and Nixie were along for that and really enjoyed running around and digging in it. As you can see, Avery even put an ear up for it, ha ha ha.

Detroit Lake holds a ton of great memories for me. When I was young we camped there often. We swam in that lake from sun up until sun down, day after day after day. Lance and I met the family there for an over night stay once, even my brother Jay was there that time. I think the year would have been 1979..in other words, a life time ago! We are planning a camping trip later this summer and I'm already looking forward to it. I enjoy being places that remind me of how much fun being young was. Dad made it through the surgery with flying colors and is doing well now at home, I am so thankful for that. It's always hard to see him down and it takes a lot to get him there. Today I am thankful for my family, from my Sister who is my best friend and number one shopping partner. My brother whom I am so proud of words will never be enough to explain how I feel about him today. For my Dad that keeps reminding us to live or lives and enjoy them, to my husband the one who worries enough for me and half the word and of course to the dogs who make me laugh, make me get outside and enjoy the world we live in and make me glad when evening comes and they all sleep! Today was a great day.

Bald Eagle

2009-02-07T18:33:00.001-08:00

There were several bald eagles in this Field. It's hard to get close without them flying away, but this one remained long after all the others had left. It was the largest of them all. Click the picture to enlarge it enough to see how beautiful he or she is.

A day at the park with Avery

2009-01-24T18:10:00.000-08:00

We have started taking the dogs one by one, at least once a month, so they have a day with us, to themselves. They seem to enjoy that. Last Saturday was Avery's day, we drove to roaring river, walked the trail along the river, then found a ball that another dog had left (always makes a ball special) we played a long time. He didn't want to sit on that picnic table, but he did it just long enough for a picture. Then we all went to subway for lunch. Avery doesn't like chips or bread, but loved the cookie Lance shared with him.

We had some excitement today, the kids that rent a house 3 down had left and there dogs were running loose when we drove home from the grocery. One is a 2 year old Malamute, huge dog, the other is a mix, Malamute and ? , six months old and already has huge feet. We loaded them up in the car and then put them in our yard as we called the phone number on the larger ones tag. Thankfully the guy wasn't to far away and our dogs were going nuts! We enjoyed our time with the two run aways , fed them and watered them, even played awhile, then home they went. Traz, Nixie and Avery had to cover every square inch of the yard with pee to be sure and get rid of the visitors smell, ha ha ha. Today I am thankful for a car that can hall large dogs, dry weather to walk in and thankful my family is all home and healthy.

Sometimes your the Bug....Sometimes your the Rose

2009-01-10T18:10:00.000-08:00

This is a rose from my garden last summer...with a very odd bug on it. It lived on the bush for several days, it never seemed to eat much, so we left it alone. It looked like a cross between a praying mantis and a grasshopper. Avery was just having a barking fit out this upper story window...it took me several minutes to see what all the noise was about.....the neighbors had put their Christmas tree out on the curb....oh how could they...!!!!! ha ha ha. He is feeling all better now, in fact the day I made the vet appointment, he stopped feeling ill, dogs! We went to the vet and he got his shots, he took it like a mandog and was sweet to all the girls. We took them a gift of lotions and soaps (just in case he was bad) they seemed to enjoy the gift and the picture of the three dogs attached to it. We celebrated Dads 80Th birthday at Redrobin last week. He seemed to enjoy the meal and the young folks singing to him. Hes in great health for his age, but week after next he is going back to the VA for a surgery. My sister and I have already made our plans to be there and how to take care of him after, so I feel good about it, or as good as is to be expected. He is getting old, that's hard to deal with sometimes. My nephew came down for the Birthday party, I enjoyed that more than anything else so far this year! Nixie is laying to my right, chewing on a bone, Avery is to my left sleeping on his window seat and Traz is with Lance in the next room, like he always is. Today I am most thankful for time to celebrate life with my family, dry weather to walk in, my meeting with my sister at the mall for shopping last week.

Last Day Of 2008....

2008-12-31T18:48:00.001-08:00

I felt like putting some pictures from the summer in, just to see the green grass and flowers again feels good! What a year it has been, good in so many ways, but so many new challenges too. I am always ready to start a new year, it gives me time to "refresh" myself and my life.

The stone near the red flower on the right is a marker for Shadow, I got it at Garlands last year. It has a pretty poem on it. It felt right having something that felt like a part of her was here with us at the new house. Not to many days go by that I still don't think about Shadow, she will always be sadly missed. However, Avery is such the dog of love! Life would not be as great as it is if it were not for Avery! He has had a sick stomach this past week, Lance made a joke that went something like this "I think hes worried about the economy, he thinks he'll have to live on the street again" It made us laugh! But, so many days I remind myself that we are safe, with a roof over our heads, plenty of food, good jobs and the love of good families. We are very fortunate and do not take that lightly. I am thankful for another day on this plant with the ones I love most and look forward to many walks in the park in 2009.

Snow Day&Holiday Photo&Misc

2008-12-19T12:00:00.001-08:00

The above is a photo of Avery teasing Nixie, he gets as many bones as possible in his mouth, runs up to her and pokes her in the cheek or nose, as if to say "ha ha ha--I have all the bones" she falls for it and chases him around and around, or, more likely, shes playing along with his game of tag, just like Traz did with Nixie at this age. I see in the picture with all three in front of the tree that Nixie has her leg over Avery's leg, and there is a bone! ha ha. Avery and I walked to the park several times in the snow this week. Traz, Nixie and Lance rode to the park in the truck. I also walked Avery to the fields by our house a few times, he loves this cold weather. He is made to be out in it, thick fat and fur! Its snowing again right now, Avery is on his window seat looking out at the world, or just the neighbor guy smoking on his porch across the street, hard to tell which. That guy has a boxer dog, very pretty, he walks it a long distance at least once a day...but...if you walk by their house on the way to the mail box and the dog hears you....it hits the front window as if its coming through it..! Makes me jump every time. I have no idea what these guys do when I'm not home, but I'm sure they have some fun barking at this and that. I keep the front curtain closed so they at least cant see outside. Today I am thankful for another Christmas here in Oregon to spend with my family. Thankful for the new car that drives like a dream in this bad weather and so very thankful for healthy happy dogs to curl up with on this cold nights.

Happy Family

2008-11-23T16:23:00.001-08:00

Avery is kicking back on the upstairs sofa, he doesn't do that very often, and when he does, he doesn't leave me much room! So many days when we leave work, all three dogs heads are out the window, but of course, not today when Lance had the camera! Nixie is there, just hidden by Traz. Avery is being naughty, with his feet up on the window. Traz looks like hes sticking his tongue out?!?!?!? ha ha ha. I love this little PT Cruiser for hauling the dogs. We took the seats out, so its just like a van in the back, easy for them to just walk right into and there is just enough room for them to all lay down, although Avery always sits right between the seats and looks out the front. I have enjoyed our park walks the past couple of weeks, not very many people left around with the weather changing, so Avery is getting a lot of good off leash time to run and play. I see the one older Man that lives near the park going to catch the bus every morning now , at around 7:30 , right when I'm pulling into work. Donna, the gal that lives in the house right next to the park said his wife is in an assisted living place in town. Now that's devotion. We got these silly talking snow men at Hallmark yesterday, what a mistake, it hasn't mattered where we put them, Avery WANTS them! If I put them away, he things I'm teasing him, If I put them on the floor he barks at them. I can see them going to someone else before the holidays are even here. Today I am thankful for the up-coming three day work week..! We will be spending Thanksgiving with family at my Sisters, so look forward to that! I am thankful Dad came out to lunch with us yesterday and very thankful that the dogs are all healthy.

Change in Weather

2008-11-02T18:31:00.000-08:00

The rain is starting to return to Oregon. I enjoy it, for a month or two and then I'm ready for the sun to come back. I think I enjoy it most, because we have the park to ourselves in the winter. I love watching the dogs run and play in all of the golden leaves on the ground and they seem to be more calm in the cooler weather. The time change seems to have all of them going to sleep early tonight! I have been ill for several weeks now, which has taken a toll on my life with dogs and without dogs! Everything seems to take more energy than I have to offer. I tried having Lance take Traz for his morning walk, which left me with just walking Avery, but neither Traz or Avery liked that change, so we stopped doing that and I went back to walking both of them. Like my Dad always says, this to shall pass. I have a lot to be thankful for, my legs still carry me on miles of trails, even in the rain. I am thankful for dogs old enough to understand when I have to lay down and nap. I'm thankful for time away with my sister to just enjoy each others company...she means the world to me. I'm thankful that my brother is always only a phone call away and is there for me when I need him. I love when Avery gets up on our bed and sleeps by my feet and thankful when he gets down so I can spread out! Today...I welcome winter and all that it brings.

Our Family Motto

2008-10-12T14:03:00.000-07:00

I read this the other day and thought...how fitting this Motto would be for our family "If you can't eat it or play with it..pee on it and walk away" A person could read several things into that, some simple, taking it for just what it says..or..complicate it and read between the lines. I believe the best thing we can do for ourselves and others is , "pee on it and walk away" Be done with it, move on, don't rehash it, so many of those lines mean the same thing. I notice as I get older I think things over, before hand, much more than I did when I was young. I like that change in myself. The dogs are sleeping longer now, the weather is changing and winter is starting to show it's self with frost on the grass in the mornings. Avery and I ran into the gal that works at the park last week, he hears her voice a mile off, and cries until I let him go so he can run to her. Shadow did the same thing, as did Nixie. She has worked in the park as longs as we've been going there, eight years now. She loves dogs and has several of her own. They live in the country somewhere. We never have much time to chat, she's working and I always have a dog or two with me. I mentioned Avery will be 2 years old soon and she mentioned she hadn't see the guy that I got Avery from in over a year now. I was glad to hear that and Avery and I decided that, that day would be the day we would "pee on it and walk away" no more past for us other than the past we have built together. Ah, Lance just got home from a bike ride and the dogs are going crazy to go see him..so off we go....Today I am thankful for a great Saturday night with my family and Sunday to be lazy.

Crater Lake Trip

2008-09-21T11:45:00.001-07:00

We had a great trip to Crater Lake. Nixie did pretty well, but was exhausted by the time we got home. A lot of people wanting to pet and visit with her on the walk at Crater Lake and she isn't that much a fan of people! I thought it was really brave of us to have her with us, as we only saw one other dog near the lake! We stopped at Diamond lake too. The creek she is walking in was coming off of a water fall, it was crystal clear and cold as ice. The place we stayed over night , In chemalt was a little tacky, but we all slept good, so that's what mattered. That Sunday night, when the boy's were still at the kennel, nixie just acted completely out of sorts, she acted that way the next morning too. We picked Avery and Traz up around 10 that morning and by noon nixie was back to her smiling--dancing self. It felt good that she missed them, I wasn't sure she would! I don't know how many times we will attempt a trip like this, 580 miles in a weekend is a lot of work on us old folks, but it was a blast and a trip we'll always remember. Today I am thankful for Oregon and all of its splendor. Thankful for time to enjoy the loves of my life and thankful for quiet time at home.

A Perfect Day

2008-09-07T18:06:00.001-07:00

It was a week filled with what I don't like most about life, intruders. Insurance agents and police, doing the job we asked of them after several of our work vans were broken into, but all of it is such a distraction from the normal day to day work. It was hard on the dogs too, which made it all worse. Today, we took Avery to the beach, we needed the time away and he is still young and needed the time to run. Next weekend we take Nixie to Crater lake, so I didn't feel AS bad leaving she and Traz home. I took Traz for a long walk in the fields, he peed on everything , twice, at least, so was content. Avery was perfect today, I didn't have one complaint. He listened, stayed close to my side and enjoyed himself, that being the most rewarding off all to me. I wanted him to have fun and he didn't let me down. He dug in the sand and covered me with the sand a couple of times, which made Lance laugh, something he really needed this weekend. He watched horses run on the beach and didn't chase after them, he let everyone pet him and he stayed down and enjoyed it. This day reminded me very much of the many times we took Shadow to the beach, she never met a person that could resist petting her and she loved it too. My shoes are full of sand, Avery is sound a sleep on his window seat next to my chair. Nixe and Traz are sleeping in the hall. We are a tired, happy gang. Today I am most thankful for good health, for myself, Lance and all of the dogs. I am thankful to have not one complaint, not one worry, not one chore left and its only 6 on Sunday evening! Life is Great.

Black & Tan

2008-08-27T18:41:00.000-07:00

I opened my lap top computer today, for the first time in over a year. I noticed I started writing about the dogs, about this time last year. I had forgotten about that, but always, in the back of my mind looms a book. In my mind I call it "my first love of the four legged kind" , but today my mind said, maybe Black and Tan would be more fitting. That's the color of nearly every dog I've had, although Shadow was registers as a Black and Silver shepherd, she really was more Black and Tan. I was watching the animal plant last week and ran into the story about Michael Vick and the pit bulls, I really didn't think I could watch, but was glad I watched the ending, to see most of the dogs made it to new homes and are living a happy life. I cant even imagine, not in my wildest dreams what would compel a person to fight dogs. Its so brutal and senseless, a waste of beautiful animals. Traz, Nixie and Avery are dogs, I never forget that, and I let them enjoy as much of a dog like life as possible, but with the creature comforts of a soft bed to sleep on, a warm lap to lay a head on and an endless amount of food and water to enjoy. A lady I have run into at the park for years now, always says, "I want to come back as one of your dogs" I take that as one of the best compliments I've ever received! Toady I am thankful for warm sunny weather, a good nights sleep last night and a long three day weekend coming up to spent with the ones I love.

Pretty and Handsome

2008-08-17T18:48:00.000-07:00

Avery looks so handsome, posing here with his best side facing me, ha ha ha. I know he was really just looking at me while Lance took the photo. Nixie is laying in the small amount of shade we have in the yard, enjoying the cooler weather. Traz was busy playing with his favorite toy , that black Kong, so we had to ask him to stop long enough for one photo. Avery teases Traz by grabbing that Kong and running, Traz always chases him, I think they both enjoy the game. Avery met up with a puppy in the park the other day, he really enjoyed the play time with it, but I noticed he was ready to stop playing long before that puppy, that's a change as around here Avery seems to never stop and the other dogs get tired of him! Nixie is still feeling great, not very itching at all. We are going to go ahead and book our trip to Crater lake for next month and take Nixie with us. I will so enjoy the time with just her, we don't get much of that together. I love the boy's, but they are true boys. It will be nice to just have Nixie girl for a change. Today I am thankful for healthy animals and for a healthy family. I am thankful the weather is cooling off and thankful the thunder storm last night didn't wake Avery. Today, Life is Great.

Brothers

2008-08-11T18:19:00.001-07:00

This is my brother Jon when he was hrmmm 17 I would guess. He's got his motorcycle packed and is riding to a lake to camp. He did that a lot. This picture was taken outside of the house I grew up in, the church in the back ground is the one Lance and I got married in. The car was my folks, before or after this picture, I took Jon out and let him drive that car and we got in a wreck, neither of us were hurt, so the folks didn't really mind.
I spent time with Jon this weekend and as always, I cherish every minute of it. I feel as at home and comfortable with him as I do with my dogs, that is saying a lot, ha ha ha. Jon has overcome a lot in his life, he beat the odds. We had two other brothers, Joel was our oldest, he died at the age of 32, in the year 1989, he took his own life. Jay was my middle brother, the died at the age of 40, in 1998 of a drug over dose. Jay and I were only 2 years apart and close growing up, but I saw his death coming, so it seemed less painful, but only in the longevity of grief, not severity. Joel was the forever funny guy, always making people laugh. I use to worry about Jon, a lot, but realized I was wasting our time together with my worries, so now I just enjoy him. You cant bring people back, but you can learn from the experience and from them, in life and death. You never stop learning, in your mind and your heart. Jay taught me hard work and kindness. Joel taught me to search for more than the eye can see, but to enjoy whats right in front of you as you travel. I use to go to the cemetery a lot and visit with my brothers, but notice after Mom died year before last, I don't go much anymore. I decided its because she's there taking care of them. My job is done. Some day we'll all meet up again and have a good laugh. Today I am thankful for Life, Love and Laughter.

Clear day at the coast

2008-08-03T18:37:00.000-07:00

You would have to click on this picture to make it big enough to see the light house in the distance, but its there! Most Oregon coast days are so foggy you wouldn't ever be able to take this picture. We were very luck to stay on a weekend in June that it was clear and sunny and warm! This was a dog less weekend. They are needed now and again, just to remind me how much I miss the three darlings when separated from them. We are planning a trip to Crater Lake next month and plan to take Nixie along. For the past 3 weeks Nixie has been a different dog, she feels good and is NOT itching. Very rare for her. She plays with Avery constantly and has even wanted to play ball in the shop again. I want this to last and i want to believe it will, so I'm making the reservations and keeping my fingers crossed for mid September. I get very little time with Nixie, so this will be a special treat. All three dogs come to work with us, every day. Traz and Avery stay with me in my office and Nixie rides in the truck with Lance, for the morning. Our shop is right next to a huge park, so all three dogs get walks to the park every morning and some afternoons, depending on how busy I am. This is the perfect life, the life I always dreamed of, I am one lucky person......!! Avery has decided on nights that Nixie is in the bed in the hall, he should sleep on the bed with us. The first time he did this, I tried to move him off, but he turned into a boneless blob and wouldn't get down, so now I just try to keep him on my side, near my feet. He only stays an hour or so, then gets down. To be honest, I kind of like feeling his warm back fur on my legs.....! Today I am thankful for three healthy dogs an another perfect sunny summer day.

Goofy faces

2008-07-19T08:26:00.000-07:00

I have no idea what they see, but it made them all look funny! Avery is here on his window seat watching the world. Nixie and Traz are sleeping in the hall way, waiting for the next exciting thing to happen, it doesn't take much to excite a dog, a open door, the click of the bone jar lid, they jump to all four feet and come running, I love that about dogs! It was a busy work week and we're all ready for a weekend off. The weather has cooled off so today will be perfect for walking to the river or a bike ride. I finished reading A Three Dog Life, by Abigail Thomas, it was a wonderful book, a bit sad, but really made me think about life. I e-mailed her expressing my thoughts on the book and she sent a nice e-mail back. Tomorrow is our 29Th wedding Anniversary. It's hard to imagine that many years have passed. I don't feel old enough to have been married this long! Today I am thankful for the constant companion ship and love of a great man. The joy and laughter the dogs bring to our life and a perfect sunny Oregon July day.

Summer is here!

2008-06-28T13:06:00.000-07:00

Summer has officially hit Oregon, with temperatures in the 90's today. It appears Traz has passed on his ability to pose for the camera to Avery. Poor Nixie never did learn to like having her picture taken. She is doing well though, and of course is much prettier than these two boys, ha ha ha. I have been absent from my blog more due to a problem with my neck, shoulder and hand. I am getting old, darn it. I started reading a new book yesterday. "three dog life" I saw it last year, but resisted buying it as I know it's sad and wasn't in the mood for it. It's a memoir, which are my favorite things to read. I will mention it more when I finish it. I also got a book called "the day I ate whatever I wanted" it looks very funny. I like having one book at work and one at home so I can read when the mood strikes me. Avery is a sleep on his window seat, next to me. He steals my heart a little more each day, although one bad thing happened to me this past year, because of Avery's arrival. I have lost my compassion for the homeless people. When I see one, I look away and feel mad at them for even being in my line of sight. All I can figure out is this, I love Avery, but did not want or need another dog, so I feel I blame the people that had him and am angry at them. I am working on myself and I know I can resolve this feeling. I fear if I don't find compassion for some people I wont have it for anyone, so won't let that happen. Today I am thankful for air conditioning! Thankful for a wonderful family, both human and dog and so thankful for the love of a good man.

Avery looking handsome

2008-06-28T13:01:00.000-07:00

We haven't had many people over in the past year, its hard with Avery as he "Loves" everyone, which means he jumps, runs and bumps into people. My family was brave enough to come over for a BBQ and we had a great time. Avery did really well, after he greeted everyone a few times, then he played and was better than I thought he would be. If I had to say Avery has a fault, it would be his love of people and other animals.

A day like any other

2008-05-21T18:42:00.000-07:00

Today was a day like any other, except it was my 48Th Birthday. Holy Cow...that sounds even older when you type it..! Im happy to be this age, in more ways than I can count. First of all, I wasn't always sure I would make it this far. Life wasn't always easy for me, on more than one occasion over these years, I really questioned the point of moving forward. Those years seem to finally be behind me. I feel calm and safe in saying, I love my life and wouldn't change it. I know those past years are what got me here, but I do hope for most people they are kinder than mine were. That being said, I had a fabulous birthday. It started with a young man flipping me off on the way to work, I can only assume I wasn't driving fast enough. The great part about it was, at 48 years old, you laugh those hand gestures off, and know, someday he'll be sitting right where you are, if he's lucky. Avery and I took a great long walk to the river after lunch. A young lady and her dog jogged by, Avery being Avery, jumped on the dog to play, the girl was mad as heck at her dog for playing, she dragged him away, yelling his name "Winston". All I could think was how lucky I am to enjoy the day, for its smells, cool wind and a wild pup with a mind of his own at my side. I use to be strict with the dogs, when I was young. Now all I want is them to have enough training to be safe around roads, other dogs and people. Avery is all the above now. I was reading in a magazine the other day about how you don't have to do something huge to make a difference in this world, that struck me so true. Now I can see being here has purpose, some are as small as saving as small runty, wrinkle headed pup like Avery to the larger ones like sitting alone with my Mom when she left this world. Today, I look in the mirror and like what I see, not just in my reflection, but in my eyes too. Lance built me a beautiful planter box for my hens&chicks, a perfect gift to end the perfect day. Birthdays, keep um coming, I will be thankful for 48 more.

Summers a coming

2008-05-18T09:02:00.000-07:00

I always like to add a picture to my post's, but I haven't taken any new ones for awhile, so found a neat old one of Traz and Nixie. Maybe I'll get the camera out today. We put new flower beds in around the back yard a few weeks ago, so far Avery thinks playing in them is great fun, what a mess! Hopefully as we add plants he'll get the idea and stay out. He is really coming along lately, has learned a lot in the past month and is really starting to listen. He may have been slow compared to the others, but he is by far the most calm and fun loving dog I've met. Traz is still enjoying his walks to the park and his leg seems to stay the same, he rarely notices that its not moving with the other three. Nixie had a great week out back helping Lance and Mike build us a cover for our patio, she really enjoys following them as they work. She smiles, visibly smiles, I love that about her. Today is another perfect, clear sunny day in Oregon. We are heading to Dad's this afternoon to be with family to celebrate birthday's, always such great fun. Today I am thankful for a family to love and be loved by. Healthy, happy dogs that make me feel proud and loved and of course thankful for my wonderful husband. Life Is Good.

Delilah

2008-04-26T15:27:00.000-07:00

This is Delilah. My sis sent this picture to me
yesterday. Samson and Delilah were the first two farm cats we got after we all moved to the farm. I'm thinking she must be 13 years old or older by now. She doesn't actually live at the farm anymore, but visits from time to time. Cats are funny that way, if left to live outside, they wander. We lost Samson many years ago, I don't know that he even lived to be a year old. I was heading out to work one early morning and there lay Samson, on the road. I scooped him up and brought him home. Lance buried him next to our house, it was very hard on both of us. Samson was gone, but never forgotten. Delilah went on to have one litter of kittens before we had her spayed. What fun that was! There were 6 or 7, some had the extra toes like she does and some had these crazy long tails. Toby is the only one left that still comes to the farm. Delilah wanted to have them right in our front yard, but we took her in a box to the old tack room in the barn. The kittens could come out underneath the barn as they got old enough and run right back in when something scared them. I cant count the nights Lance and I sat on the hay deck watching those kittens play in the pasture as they grew up! We laughed endlessly at them jump at nothing and chase imaginary things around the fields. Cats are so different from dogs. I love how independent they are. Today I am thankful for the sunshine and spring flowers that cover the ground in the park. I'm thankful Jan is so thoughtful and sent this picture that brought back some wonderful memories too.

All Three of my darlings

2008-04-13T18:02:00.000-07:00

Great sunny weather in Oregon today. We spent every minute we could outside this weekend. Lance even took Avery and Nixie on bike rides/runs later this afternoon. Avery is sitting here next to me looking out his window, I have it open today so he is really enjoying all of the smells coming in. Our neighborhood is a very busy place, kids walking, biking, walking dogs. Today I am thankful for perfect weather, having lunch with my Dad and brother Jon and for a great husband who loves dogs as much as I do.

Action shot of Avery

2008-04-13T18:01:00.000-07:00

Family Christmas 2007

2008-04-05T17:41:00.000-07:00

Hey, its only taken me three and 1/2 months to get the Christmas picture posted..! Life is busy, just the way I like it. Avery is away this weekend. He has been really lonely for other dogs lately so I took him to the kennel, which is a big horse and dog farm in the country. He loves it there and barked the whole drive on Friday. I know hes having a great time, but I miss him.

This is a great picture, we had another wonderful Christmas at my sister Jan's. (she and Perry are front and center) Nancy was able to join us too, which was an added treat as we don't get to see her as much as We'd like (Jon's girlfriend, in the pink) Always love seeing Curtis(behind Jan and Perry) I still think of him as a young kid, is that a sure sign I'm getting old or what?!?!? ha ha. I love that my Dad was feeling good and had a great day. My brother Jon, just being with him makes me happy. My sister Jan, I never seem to get as much time with her as I would like, but we really know how to make the most out of what we get. I sometimes wonder if we would ever run out of things to say if we were given an unlimited time to spend together, I somehow doubt it...! Lance, my forever best friend and perfect partner. We are going to Celebrate our 29Th Anniversary this summer...I hope the next 29 go a little slower. Lately we have had a running joke....we got this cookie/bone jar at Costco...One day I said, every time I reach in the jar for 3 bones I come out with 4..do you think that means something....he laughs and says...over my dead body are you getting another dog...! A few days later he said...every time I reach in the jar I come out with 2 bones....! ha ha, he thinks he's funny....and he usually is. Laughing together is a great thing. Today I am thankful for a little extra time for myself. Thankful the rain is starting to slow down and thankful for a wonderful family to love and be loved by.

Avery in the house

2008-03-22T18:28:00.001-07:00

That ring toy behind Avery is his new favorite indoor toy. I throw it, Avery catches it and Nixie chases him. This is the game we play while I cook dinner every night. Thankfully we have a big area to play in as they do enjoy this game.
Today I am thankful for the sunshine, the return of the osprey in the park and a dry yard for the dogs to play in.

Avery and Traz

2008-03-22T18:25:00.000-07:00

Traz loves that black kong toy thats laying infront of him. Avery takes it any chance he gets, only because he knows Traz will chase him, and he loves that.

Nixie And Avery

2008-03-22T18:24:00.001-07:00

They look so serious, but thats only because I asked them to sit still, very hard for either to do for more than a minute!

Avery enjoying the first day of spring

2008-03-22T18:22:00.001-07:00

His Tail is really something!

Spring is in the air

2008-03-13T18:12:00.000-07:00

I started walking Avery and Traz separately, last week. It works much better. I can work with Avery and enjoy my time with him at the park, and he's learning better. Traz and I take a long slow walk, just the kind he likes, he stops to pee on everything and I stop to look at birds and windflowers, I'm glad that's not the other way around, ha ha ha. I finally broke down and paid $21.99 for the gentle leader, its a collar and strap that goes over the nose. Avery is under control at last....!!! It really works! I was amazed. He walks by my side and barely pulls on the leash at all. He never felt anything I put around his neck, so nothing worked before this. It makes walking him a true joy. I feel a little sad though, just like I always do when the final stages of training come around, its the end of them being a puppy. Time goes so fast. All three dogs are enjoying the spring weather, Nixie is doing OK with her itching and will do better as summer comes on. I was thinking back to last year, thinking the one great thing I did for myself and would recommend to anyone, get a massage, at least once a month. I have been getting a 1 hour massage every 3 or 4 weeks for several months now and it has truly made a difference in my life. I get it on Friday and the relaxed feeling lasts way past the weekend. I think it's the "doing" something for myself part that helps the most. I see a vulture flying over the neighborhood tonight, a true sign that spring has arrived in Oregon is when they come back after the long, cold winter. Today I am thankful to have wildflowers and green grass all around me. Thankful we have 3 wonderful, healthy dogs and thankful its nearly the weekend!

The farm

2008-02-28T18:24:00.000-08:00

I was looking at old pictures on my computer today and ran across this one. I wish it was clearer so you could see the true beauty of it. This was my dream, living here on this farm with horses! The two horses in the picture are Creampuff and Micky. Two of the greatest things about living here were having a great place for our first gsd Sasha to live her last years, oh how she loved this place, she loved cats and we had many and she loved the wide open space and fresh country air. The second greatest thing was riding with my husband, we had so many great rides. One of my favorite was on Christmas day, it was cold and frosty, we saddled up and headed out on Christmas morning, we visited with neighbors that came out when they heard the clip-clop of the horses hooves on the pavement. I had wished there had been more open land to ride on, like when I was a kid, but Lance never seemed to mind, as long as we found a place or two to gallop, or run like the wind as we like to call it. I used this picture for the cover of the book I wrote a couple of years back, I enjoyed being able to do that. I don't know that there is a more beautiful place on earth than this one, the red earth, white daisies and yellow weed, fir trees standing tall providing shade for the horses on hot days. I am thankful for the great memories of the farm. The great times I spent with my sister and husband here. You know those times when your not sure you did the right thing, made the right choice?!!? I know for sure living here was the right choice! Life changed, we bought our business, ten years ago now. I like where I am in life now, too. The city is fun in its own way and has a lot to offer, life is easier now. No stalls to clean or shots to give. I wish somehow I could slow it down a little though, its moving way to fast! Today I am thankful for the good in my past. Thankful for a great family to share life with and thankful for yet another sunny Oregon day.

Avery is getting big..!

2008-02-27T18:26:00.000-08:00

I can't believe how big Avery has gotten. This is an older picture, I think he's gained 20 pounds or more. He was 77 pounds at the vet this week. Yes, the vet...again....! All three had been sick for 10 days, Traz was not eating at all by this week. The vet said the flu was going around, but I haven't ever had them be ill this long. I took her word for it, put them on the bland diet (potato flakes and cottage cheese) and they all seem better today. Traz even acts hungry. Hopefully this is all behind us. We have been enjoying great weather here in Oregon. Avery and I have been exploring our new area, we live blocks from a creek and a river! He is loving every minute of it. I will get some pictures of him swimming this year! I know he will love it. Today I am thankful for the sun, the beautiful Oregon landscape and for all the loves in my life.

Looking around my own backyard

2008-02-07T18:26:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of silver falls, its not far from where we live. I sometimes forget just how beautiful Oregon is, but this place always reminds me to pay more attention to whats right here in front of us. Lance and I took Avery here a couple of months ago, he seemed to enjoy himself, he went pee in the creek, what more could a dog ask for. Oh, as of last week, Avery is no longer a puppy. He lifed his leg to pee, his aim isn't to good yet though, ha ha ha. Back to silver falls state park, it was the first place Lance and I ever went together, it was right after new years, so the year was 1979, we drove there in his fancy car a 1970 mach1 mustang, got stuck in the snow along with a dozen or more other people. We had a great time meeting people and pushing each others cars out, oh to be young again! It was a time we still enjoy remembering and laughing about. Those little things, the ones you dont pay much attention to at the time, really add up over the years. Today I am thankful for great past memories and look forward to making many new ones. I am thankful to have three sleeping dogs and all the laundry done..!

A year ago today

2008-02-02T09:32:00.001-08:00

Avery came home with me a year ago. I can't imagine life without him in it. Today I am thankful for being in the right place at the right time. Thankful to have all three dogs healthy and happy and thankful for a husband that understands me.

Avery Then and Now

2008-01-31T18:38:00.001-08:00

Snow Day

2008-01-28T18:33:00.001-08:00

That's Avery in the lead with Nixie close behind him! Traz is watching and of course eating snow too, he loves it! What a great snow day we had. It happened to be a Sunday so we were off work. We took them to a field near our house and had it all to ourselves, other than some kids with sleds. Avery had his ears up like this a couple of times. He really enjoys this cold weather. Nixie acts like a puppy around Avery, they get along so well. Traz did plenty of playing in between snow eating, ha ha ha. Today I am thankful for a cold clear day to play outside and a warm fire to come home too.

Update on Nixie

2008-01-19T18:12:00.000-08:00

I took Nixie to the eye doctor, she suspects this is some sort of deposit, either from fat or mineral. It was one of those 2 second visits with a stranger, the kind Nixie really hates. I paid my $65.00, leaving with nothing more than I entered with. I took her back to our vet and had the recommended blood work done to see if it showed anything, it didn't. We just watch it and see if the areas get larger. The vet (Dr Christina) that we take the dogs too did say she suspects its from the large doses of Prednisone Nixie was on when younger, for her allergies. Either way, Nixie is doing well and seems to have little to no problem seeing. Today was a great dog day, cold and clear and perfect for running in the large park near our house. Nixie and Avery are really starting to play together and are enjoying each other more every day. I feel so lucky to have the three off them, words cant express what joy they bring to my life. Today I am thankful for a great husband that puts up with our furry family. Grateful for a wonderful Sister who got me out of here for a much needed shopping trip last week and Grateful that Lance and I will taking time out to share a meal with my Dad and Brother Jon tomorrow. Life is Good.

Last Day Of 2007

2007-12-31T08:48:00.000-08:00

I have been very busy...! Preparing for Christmas for family, friends and a business takes up most of my free time in December. We had a great holiday season...! We took extra time off which gave us much needed "play" time with the dogs. Winter is hard to find good play time as most days are utilitarian, a lot of washing feet and underbellies! Oregon is very muddy in the winter and our yard is very flooded. Thankfully, the dogs don't have a problem with wet conditions. I noticed Nixie has a problem with both eye's, each has a halo of white matter on the surface of the cornea. I took her to Dr Christina and she suggested the eye vet in Corvallis, so we are going there this week. Lance said he already decided if she lost her sight he would be her seeing eye human, ha ha ha. He loves his girl, as do I. I'm keeping my hopes up until told other wise. Nixie is a fighter, that I know. Yesterday, she tried showing Avery how to go down the slide at the park, he wasn't having any of that, his front feet hit the metal and he backed right off of it. Nixie showed off, going down it 3 times! Lance took this picture a couple of days ago. Avery (far right) has such a wide chest. Nixie (middle) looks small, but her weight at the vet was 83.5..! Alcatraz, is feeling great, eating good and getting around pretty well. I did notice yesterday, when Avery took off after a squirrel, traz didn't follow. He saves his energy for more important things now, like chewing on bones and guarding the shop. Today I am thankful to have all that I love still here in my life for the beginning of another year.

Baking Dog Cookies

2007-12-11T18:30:00.000-08:00

My house smells funny, of dog cookies....! I baked these cookies, in the shape of small hearts. I got the jar of ingredient's at the bazaar last weekend, from the human society table. You add eggs and water, roll it out and cut into shapes, bake for 90 minutes. I'm sure the dogs will love them, after they cool..! I read this line in a book tonight "Our dogs see us through more than they put us through" I like that, its very true, in the long run of things. Right now Avery is testing me, daily. He's impossible to get mad at, the minute you act upset with him, he comes over, flattens his ears and pushes into what ever part of you he can lean on. He looks so sad I have not be able to stop myself from petting him and telling him everything is OK.
He loves people, ALL people. Having him on a leash at the park yesterday and running into a person on the trail nearly left me minus one arm...he can pull in any direction..! I keep telling myself soon he'll be over this, but I sure wish he would hurry it along. He is such a sweet, sweet soul, but with the energy of 10 dogs! Today I am thankful to be done Christmas shopping! Thankful to have a great family to spend the holidays with and thankful for my furry loves, even the wild little one!

Winter has arrived

2007-12-03T18:10:00.000-08:00

It's been raining non stop for a few days now. The yard is flooded, the park has turned into a river and they have the road closed. The dogs could care less about any of it, they play just the same as if it were a sunny hot summer day. I finished the second book by Louise Bernikow today. The end made me cry, I figured it would. She was brave to have been able to write about Libro's last weeks, days, hours and moments. I could not do that when it came to Shadow, not even years later. I did write poetry about her. It would just come to me. Like the day I was going through the old metal desk at work and came across the coat we bought for her after she was shaved for surgery. Her beautiful wavy hairs still stuck in the lining of it. My mind even let me believe, for that moment that I could smell her, one last time. Avery just jumped up on my chair and licked the tears from my cheeks. He is healing me one lick at a time!
Avery is mentally slow, not stupid, but slow growing up. I don't know, but suspect its because he didn't have proper nutrition when he was very young. He is nearing a year old, but still acts like a 6 month old pup. I don't mind the playful part of it, but he is getting big to play rough with. He listens, but often chooses to ignore directions and do his own thing. I know, just like the other dogs, all of the sudden, one day he'll be all grown up and I will want him to be a puppy again, so for now, I will enjoy all that he is and deal with all that he is not. Today, I am thankful to remember Shadow and all that I loved about her. To have new loves in Traz, Nixie and Avery. Thankful Lance felt like bringing a lot of Christmas cheer to our new neighborhood and put up tons of lights and decorations, I get to watch the cars slow down to look, right here out my window! I am most thankful to have a dry place to hang my hat on this very wet day.

Thinking Back

2007-11-13T18:19:00.000-08:00

I was thinking about last year, when Avery came home to live with us. It seems more like years now, life sure wouldn't be the same without him in it. I saw Avery's Sister today, she is beautiful too. I hadn't seen her and the man that she is with in a few weeks, that always worries me. I learned of her existence from the people I got Avery from, they all (the man that has the sister and the folks I got Avery from, lived in the same camp. I would see the man walking her and sometime she ran next to his bike, or in the hot weather he put her in the bike trailer he used to move his cans from one location to another. She always looked well fed and taken care of and still does. I think her hair is longer because she lives out doors. Now, they live in a tent camp alone the highway, just outside of Corvallis, next to a man made lake. I see the smoke every day as I go to and from work, and always think of the pup. I wish life was different and she and Avery could meet and play, I know he would like that. I did think of something funny today as they passed me on the highway, the man has always had the dog, but in this time frame there have been at least three different women riding on the bike next to him. The moral of the story might be....a good woman is hard to find....and..a good dog is hard to leave behind.
There isn't anything funny about the life of drugs and misery these folks live in, but I truly believe that having a dog that mirrors Avery must give this man some "good" in his day, something to feel proud of and for sure something that gives him the love he must be missing in his life. Today I am thankful to live in a warm house that is made a home by the man and dogs I share it with. Thankful to the caring people that gave my sister and myself a true "Ladies" afternoon of much needed pampering and the best visiting she and I have gotten in for some time now. I am also thankful for the sun that came out for our park walk today, I needed that..!

Avery Now

2007-11-13T18:17:00.000-08:00

Avery's first week

2007-11-13T18:15:00.000-08:00

Gray around the edges

2007-11-08T18:30:00.001-08:00

Lance took Traz with him in his truck the other afternoon and has now several times, the company next to us at work is complaining , again, about Traz barking if we both leave, so this will hopefully work out for all involved. Anyway, they have been going to the park before coming back to shop and Traz loves it. Traz always liked riding with Lance in the truck, but got to where he wasn't comfortable and would get noisy. Avery loves the truck too. Lance took Nixie and Avery one day, Avery ran up front and jumped in Nixie's seat, that lasted about as long as it took Nixie to get up there and push him off, She is the Queen! Avery gave all of us several laughs today, first by fighting with some lumber on the shop floor, he goes into a deep down growl and bark at all lumber, ha ha ha. Then he climbed on one of the shop bench shelves trying to get a ball. After we had lunch I got up and he got into my chair, sat awhile then walked right up onto Lances desk ( Picture to follow when I have time to load it) The only thing I can figure is he grew this week and can now get onto things he couldn't before. He is about 2" taller than Nixie now. He seems to be doing OK with the time change, with it getting dark so early we don't get the after supper play time now. I have been walking him for a longer time in the afternoon, so think that helps. He will be a year old before we know it. Lance decided he should share his birthday in December as we don't really know when Avery was born. The other dogs have real birthdays. Traz turns 7 next week and Nixie will be 4 in the spring. Time goes so very fast. Today I am thankful for a warm house that holds the loves of my life, a great job that allows me to spend all of my time with husband and thankful for another day to enjoy all that life offers.

Life, Love and Laughter

2007-10-27T08:26:00.000-07:00

I have so many great pictures on my computer, of family and fun times. I didn't always like this way of keeping pictures, in fact when we first got Nixie I was insistent that Lance print out pictures so I would have some that I could hold in my hands. He not only did that, but made me this wonderful photo album of her first year. Having three dogs is getting easier, as Avery grows up and is becoming more relaxed, so am I. He is very smart and is learning fast. The itchy mite is gone and all the dogs are feeling good again. I am so enjoying a book my sister got me, "Bark if you love me" , its about a non dog loving lady that finds herself rescuing a dog. She soon becomes a dog lover, of course. The second book, which my wonderful sis got me too, is called Dreaming in Libro. That's what she named the dog. I like what she said on the cover "a good dog tames a bad woman" ha ha ha. Louise Bernikow is the author. Reading the book made me think about just how lucky I am to have these dogs in my life and to have always had the love of a great dog in my life. Not everyone gets to experience life in this way, the unconditional love, the constant companionship, the right to act silly and talk to yourself because you always feel like you re with someone! The benefits of living with dogs are endless. Reading the book I imagine Louise will never be dog less again. I know I hope to always have a great dog. Today I am thankful for a great sister that thinks of me even when we're apart. Thankful for a sunny Oregon day to spend playing in the park and thankful to have all the time I desire with family.

Fall turns to Winter

2007-10-27T08:23:00.000-07:00

most of these pictures were taken last year. Other than the one with all three dogs. That was this spring. I hope we get snow this year, Avery will love it.

Winter is coming

2007-10-21T09:15:00.001-07:00

As soon as the weather starts to get cool and rains come, my feet start longing for the hot sands of Mexico! The picture was taken last November, Ixtapa at sunset. I loved this place, so peaceful and beautiful. We had a great time, but always do. I never understand people that say they had a bad vacation..! It's what you make it and we always make ours great. The ocean was so warm and inviting, if you could get past the giant waves, which we did several times. Me, not so gracefully! We have been going to Mexico for the past 5 years, but wont be going this year. Traz isn't able to stay at the kennel anymore, he just doesn't have the strength in his back legs like he should and he takes a lot of coaxing to get food down him these days. I know a week away from us would be much to hard on him. I don't mind, its the least we can do for him, for all he does for us. Taking care of the ones you love and understanding their limitations, when they have them, I think is very important to remember as we age. Today I am thankful all the dogs are healthy (enough) happy and at the moment sleeping! I am thankful to have the energy and ability to run and play with them each day. I am thankful to be here, on this earth to enjoy all it offers, whether it be hot sand between my toes or cool rain on my head.

More Avery

2007-10-15T18:40:00.001-07:00

Avery gave me a huge laugh this afternoon, he was sitting up stairs on the cedar chest looking out the window, when all of the sudden he started barking like crazy, came running down the stairs as if to get me, I came up with him, he stopped at the doorway to my room and started barking, like there was someone in the room, ha ha ha ( I think Traz would have let me know that!) He finally jumped up on the cedar chest again and started barking, I looked out someone's recycling was blowing down the sidewalk. I don't suppose he's really every seen anything blowing in the wind, but he was very upset, hair up and the works. I finally went downstairs, outside and picked it up, it was heavy plastic from a case of bottled water. I waved it in the air to show him and threw it away in the dumpster. I was really tempted to act like it was getting me or something funny to see what he would do, but figured I looked like an idiot to any neighbor that might be looking out as is, ha ha ha. The barking ended and all was right in Avery's world again.

The birds are coming back

2007-10-13T18:35:00.000-07:00

This is a picture I took last year of the pileated woodpecker in Avery park. There were two on this tree, very large with the bright red heads. You can see the holes in the tree they made to find bugs in. I enjoyed these birds so much. I even saw their babies later in the year, they were so much fun to watch play and learn to fly. They have a very distinct sound, it almost sounds like a tropical bird call. I haven't seen them for sometime now, but I think that's because Avery and I don't walk the same trail that Traz and I did, down by the river. I tried that with Avery a few days ago, but he found a group of other dogs and took off after them. He seemed to go deaf the minute he took of as I yelled my lungs out for him to come back, ha ha ha. I hope to see the woodpeckers again come spring.

Avery

2007-10-13T18:33:00.001-07:00

Avery in front of roses in Avery park. I love this picture, him with his funny little ears, looking so grown up!

Special Day

2007-10-09T18:31:00.001-07:00

This was by far one of the best days I have had in a long time, although it was spent dog less, it was a joy from start to finish. I spent it with the three men I love most in this world, Lance, my Dad and my brother Jon. Lance took this picture of Dad and Jon, both are laughing because I was trying to give them direction so they would be centered in front of the bridge, neither listened to me as you can see!

Being with my Dad is inspiring, he is nearly 80 and still is game for anything, his mood is always good and he still finds enjoyable things to do on this planet. Being with Jon reminds me to smile and be happy for today, leave the past where it belongs and look to the future. I have a ton of great childhood memories with my Dad and Jon on this same coast and on this day it was fun to take the ones that Lance and I have made over the past 29 years and blend them together. We took them to our favorite fish shack and they loved it. Jon bought Dad and him some pickled herring, the idea of them sitting around eating it made me laugh! We all went to the taffy shop and picked out candy to take home and watched the boats come and go at the dock. I felt like a kid again. By the time we headed home Jon was on the phone planning to steel head fish with friends when he got home, Dad was ready for a nap and I was ready to hug some dogs that I knew were at home waiting for us. I think Lance was ready for his recliner! Today I am thankful to make new memories, to laugh with family and friends and to feel soft dog fur on my cold feet.

Avery at work

2007-09-26T18:41:00.000-07:00

Lance took this picture with his phone, so its blurry, but this is Avery's new favorite thing! When I'm in a hurry I always sit on the edge of my chair at work, he's decided that leaves him just enough room to sit behind me. He is such a lovebug! He steals my heart a little bit more with each passing day. He is the first dog that notices what I'm doing and how I'm feeling, other than Shadow, of course. Avery and I have the same connection as she and I did. He knows when I'm sad or happy and his mood mirrors mine. Right now he's crying at the window really wanting out after that little dog that's getting its walk in front of our house. He doesn't bark much, thankfully. Tomorrow Traz goes in for his second Lime/Sulfur dip. We all got use to the smell pretty fast and he really seems to feel better. Nixie is growing a lot of hair and looking great. Avery is slightly itchy is all. Soon Avery will get to ride with Lance in the big truck sometimes, he already wants too, but Lance is still to busy to train a pup. I am so looking forward to things slowing down. We work non-stop all summer and the pay off is having a lot of time together in the winter, I so enjoy that. Today I am thankful to be healthy. Thankful all of the dogs are on the mend and thankful to love and be loved.

Traz and Shadow

2007-09-15T19:01:00.000-07:00

I was thinking about Shadow today, mostly because Avery often acts like her! I even find myself calling him Shadow from time to time. Traz was not even 2 years old in this picture. Time goes way to fast. My struggle this week with Avery has been "Patience or Punishment" he is getting to the age and weight that any bad behavior is to much for me to handle! He has that Puppy Energy going on that seems to last most of the day sometimes. Lance started taking him for runs alone side his bike this week and he really likes it and is doing very well listening to Lance. Nixie had her third and last shot today. Shes doing so well and feeling better than I can remember her ever feeling! Doc Kim thinks most likely Avery had this bug when we got him and passed it to the other dogs, Nixie got it the worst because of her bad skin allergies. She said its normal that Avery got better with good food and care because the mites wont live as well, but that Nixie re infested him and then Traz. I will be glad when this is all over and am hopeful that Traz will tolerate the treatments. Today was a great dog day, Nixie found a ball at the park so was showing off to Avery and Traz most of our walk. Of course shortly she set the ball down and Avery took off with it..! After supper they came outside with me and helped in making the first of many dried flower arrangements I will make for Christmas gifts this year. Avery took off with some flowers, he felt so proud..ha ha ha. Today I am thankful for perfect weather, having all my work done for another day and for the love of a good man.

Life with Dogs is Busy

2007-09-06T18:53:00.000-07:00

I have been so busy caring for the three cuties I don't have much extra time to write about our life lately. Avery got weighed at the vet yesterday, 73 1/2 pounds! I had no idea he had gotten that big. All dogs look small compared to Traz. I started cooking some brown rice and chicken to add to Traz's food this week, he is getting thin. We took Nixie and Traz to the vet together last weekend, Nixie is doing so much better I can hardly believe it. When I gave her a bath on Wed, I only had about 3 hairs in the tub..! We are getting shots for Nixie and Avery, to kill an external parasite that they might have, its a big might have as the vet cant find one on them, but we have to try something for this itching, they all have it. Traz can not have the shot as it works in the neurological part of the body and with his already compromised system, we cant risk it...soooo Traz is going to get a Lime/Sulfur dip. He will stink and turn yellow for awhile, joy joy! All in a day with dogs. Avery is a love beyond words. He sticks to me like glue and is as smart as any dog I have ever had, maybe smarter, time will tell. Today I am thankful for this great life, enough money to care for the ones I love in it and for the most perfect weather anyone could ask for.

Good Dog Sunday

2007-08-26T18:56:00.001-07:00

This picture is Nixie at sunset on the Oregon coast. She was around 6 months old at the time. She was and still is the bravest dog we have had, she even chased a sealion into the water this trip! She is feeling better today, less itchy and maybe growing some hair back. My spirits are soaring at the idea that she might keep improving. Avery and Nixie both got baths in the Teatree shampoo today. I love the smell of it, thankfully! Traz is getting along ok, but very tired this weekend. The weather is cooler, which they all enjoy.
As Helen Keller said, "I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. I will not refuse to do the something I can do." I read that today and liked it. Today I am thankful for the day with my family furry and otherwise.

Reflection part 2

2007-08-21T18:57:00.000-07:00

The picture is Lance with Nixie when she was about 8 or 9 weeks old. Our old yard, with Shadows dogwood tree in the back ground. It was hard for me to leave that tree. It was incredibly hard for me to move here to this house, for so many reasons. This is the road I learned to ride whisper on, back then it was gravel with a couple small farms on it. I realized after moving here that facing my past was not a bad thing. I didn't know that the good memories could and would take over and push out the bad. All I feel when I drive home to this house is JOY. I remember all the great times with friends riding horses out here, riding our bikes after school to get here and playing in the pool the folks up on the highway had. If only I had known everything would turn out alright for me, back when I was making those memories, life sure would have been easier. I don't think telling someone this would help them, it wouldn't have me, I don't think I would of believed these words, but...facing what you fear will set you free. I know that as a fact now, I'm living proof. Not everyone has a great person in there life like I do that nudges me to step outside of my comfort zone, Lance has a way of knowing what will bring me happiness. Years ago, I had been ill and gotten very heavy. He took me on a tropical vacation, of all things, just what I didn't want to do...! I had the time of my life, we had the time of our lives.
Today I am thankful for a great husband that never stops amazing me. Sunny skies and tomorrow to spend with all of my fuzzy loves.

Reflection

2007-08-20T18:44:00.001-07:00

I spent every waking moment on this horse, from the time I was 12 until I was nearly 18. Her name was Whisper. She and I traveled the land, swam in the rivers and flew over creeks like we had wings. We also cleaned up and went to horse shows and did 4-H. She was my best friend. I'm pretty sure my life would have been a lot different without her in it. Like many kids, I went through some things that damaged my spirit, whisper helped me forget. To this day, brushing a horse brings a calm over me that nothing else can. I love caring for animals, large or small and cant imagine life without them in it. I quit smoking 5 years ago today..yippie for me! I will now live long enough to love many many more dogs, ha ha ha. Today, I am thankful for wanting to live, that's not something I take for granted, as I haven't always felt this way. I am thankful for the love of a great family, my sister, brother and Dad who are all very supportive and I know will always be here for me. I am thankful for great dogs and plenty of time with them. Life is good.

Lazy-Long-Dog-Days

2007-08-18T18:38:00.001-07:00

The picture is Nixie around 6 months old, with Traz, of course. You couldn't separate the two. They loved playing and laying together. Her ears were so huge! I remember the lady that works at the park calling her little donkey, Nixie liked it! We still see her from time to time, but not near like back when Shadow was alive. I think she works at more than just Avery park now. Nixie went to the vet again today, Lance took her today. Her skin has gotten so much worse lately. The vet said on a scale of 1 to 10 , Nixie is a 12. That made me feel like crying. I know a few months ago we decided to let her live her life more, let her play outdoors more and eat what she wanted. We knew this might be trouble, but at least she would have some fun. She is acting so much better and playing with the other dogs again. We got some new medicines and more antibiotics and will continue what we've been doing with the weekly bathing. Our next option is a clinic in Portland that could test her for 90 different things that she might be allergic to. Its complicated and she would have to be put under and stay over night there. I swore to myself and my future dogs that I wouldn't put another through what I put my Shadow through, with all of the testing and surgery, just to die a couple of months later anyway. I am going to search my soul, dig deeper than ever before and decide what is right for Nixie. She has fought a good fight and if she lets me know she is done, I can and will let her go, I love her that much.
Today I am thankful for having this whole day to just "be" with my family. Enjoy the little things for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things!

Peaceful

2007-08-08T19:07:00.000-07:00

The past week days Nixie has been staying with Avery and I in the office. I am really enjoying her. She and Avery get along well at the park too. Traz is enjoying riding with Lance in the truck again and has been fairly quiet. His noisy whining is what got him kicked out of the truck a couple of years ago. He is sleeping a lot, but his legs really do seem better. The weather continues to be perfect. I don't look forward to the rain coming back, but like the dogs, I don't really mind it that much either. Our new house has great access from the back yard to the garage to the house, so the dogs can be cleaned before coming in. That's one of the reasons we bought this house. Come to think of it, our old house was purchased for its huge back yard that I knew Shadow would love, holy cow it is all about the dogs, ha ha ha. Today I am grateful to have had lunch with my Dad and brother last weekend. Grateful for perfect dog weather, a home to love and care for my family in and as always grateful to have another day as perfect as today to enjoy it all.

Days like today, I have to remind myself "WHY"

2007-08-01T18:59:00.000-07:00

It was a long dog day. All three are itchy, well four if you include me. We are spraying the yard tomorrow in hopes it's the flying bugs out there causing us to all itch. We have treated all the dogs for fleas like always and have not seen a sign of or a live flea, so I know its not that. Avery has not been itchy like this for many months. It worries me because it was about this age that Nixie really broke out and we had her tested for allergies, which she ended up being allergic to most out door plants, grass and trees. The puppy picture is Avery, you can see he had very few hairs on his head, his back was even worse. I had this time stamp on my camera because I was working with a rescue place on a neglected heard of horses down the road from our old house. She had asked me to take pictures of the poor conditions that day and to be sure and have the time/date set on the camera. It was a sad outcome to our good intentions as the owner moved the horses before we could get assistance to remove them from this , less than 1 acre city lot, there were 12 horses and several ponies. I don't know , but suspect being in the middle of that with the horses opened my heart and Avery jumped in. Its the only way I can explain the insanity of having two grown dogs and a puppy! Ha Ha. I love them dearly, all three equally. Today I am thankful for a home large enough to hold my family, the mini-van with its neat sliding doors so the dogs no longer have to jump into a pickup and of course as always, very thankful to be here to live, love and laugh for another day.

2007-07-28T19:30:00.000-07:00

This is Nixie sitting on a fallen tree in Avery park last year. The large yellow X means the tree was marked to be cut down, but a big wind storm came in and took most of the trees down with it. She loves climbing on anything and she loves going down a slide! We took all three to the mountains today. It was cool and smelled so wonderful. Avery was a little jumpy, of course Lance didn't help that by throwing rocks out into the forest just to watch the big dogs go running after them! We all had a great time. Traz got tired, but it was a long up hill climb. He did a lot better than he would have last week. No more liquid flea treatments for Traz. I really believe now that is what caused the last two bad episodes, his confusing and crossed legs. I read that it would do that to a dog with DM, but I either didnt believe it or am still in denial that Traz has something neurological going on. I learned from Shadow's illness, it really doesn't matter what I think or do, it will run its course and nothing I do can or will change that. We will just continue to shower him with love like always and count ourselves lucky for every day that he is in our lives. Today I am thankful for Oregon's lush green forests, warm summer sun and three happy tired dogs.

28 years ago yesterday I said yes......

2007-07-21T18:46:00.000-07:00

We celebrated our 28Th wedding anniversary yesterday. It hardly seems possible. The picture is Lance and I at around 20 or 21 years old, I don't remember my hair being so red, but I do remember Lance having those long sideburns, they were all the thing in the late seventies! and he liked Elvis, ha ha ha. We met at 18 years old and got married 7 months later. We moved from Oregon to Nebraska the month after we got married. We knew 2 people in Nebraska, the friends who talked us into moving there! We were truly on our own right from the start. We met great people there and had wonderful times that are now perfect memories. I was home sick a lot though, and was glad when we finally came back to Oregon for good, 17 years ago now. Lance and I have had a great life together. We've traveled and seen places we only dreamed of when were these two young kids, just starting out. We work together, spend all of our free time together and still wish there were more hours in the day to be together. Today I am thankful for this perfect life, great memories of years shared with my loving husband and of course , thankful that he's a dog lover too!

All Three Sitting Still At One Time

2007-07-15T18:52:00.000-07:00

I was determined to get a picture of all three dogs (far left --Traz. middle-Avery. right-Nixie.) I am holding their favorite toy above my head and Lance snapped the picture! Its not a perfect pose, but its all three in it, ha ha ha. This was a great dog weekend. Perfect weather and lots of outside time. Avery took two trips with us yesterday, first to the downtown car show, he had a great time meeting and greeting people. Then to Silverfalls in the afternoon, he enjoyed that even more, tons of people petted him and he got to pee in the creek, ha ha ha...he is such a boy dog! Today I am thankful for my perfectly simple life, sunny days and sharing life with the ones I love.

Avery Killing Seaweed

2007-07-10T18:36:00.000-07:00

Avery found this huge, long piece of seaweed and drug it around the sand until there wasn't much left of it. He really enjoyed that. I was somewhat disappointed that there were no other dogs for him to play with. I know the one Vet I took Nixie to said dogs shouldn't go in the ocean because the salt water is drying and the Salmon residue could hurt them. I say Pish..! to that. Let dogs have fun. There is not one off leash park in the city we live in now, but we still have the one where we work, so I am thankful for that. Dogs need to run, just ask Traz! He still runs every day, even with his legs giving out on him. It's 100 degrees today, Avery never noticed, nor did Traz. Nixie on the other hand, hates the heat. She waits by the door to get back in to the air conditioning. She's a girly-girl, ha ha ha. Today I am thankful for air conditioning!, but more thankful for everyone I am surround by that made me laugh today.

Avery's First Trip To The Ocean

2007-07-07T18:25:00.000-07:00

Whats so funny about this picture is, I think I have worn this same coat to the beach for the past 15 years..!! ha ha. I know I have a picture of Shadow and I walking along this same beach and there I am in the red coat, funny. Avery had a great time. He was brave, but not stupid about the waves. He didn't drink a lot of salt water (big improvement over Traz)
I had Nixie to the vet yesterday, we got a new medicine for her allergies and she played this morning! She ran in the yard and even got frisky with me when I came out the door. She hasn't done that in a year or more. I feel encouraged! Today, I am thankful for perfect summer weather and long sunny days. I am thankful to have had this day to spend with the loves of my life (husband included) I'm also thankful for the fish shack that we have eaten at nearly every coast trip for as long back as I can remember, thankful to be sharing the extra fries with a new puppy after his first trip to the beach!

Perfect Dog Day

2007-06-28T18:47:00.000-07:00

The dog days of summer are upon us and my three are slowing down in preperation. Traz is still having a lot of trouble walking and he's sleeping a lot. He and I are taking each day for what it is and like we decided today, He can run, chase a stick and play with Avery, so life is still Ok for Traz. Nixie is feeling good the past 2 days, she even has some hair growing back on her ears. I got to keep her the other morning as Lance had a full work day, that was a joy. I miss having her close. Avery, my 0 my I love this little guy. We are working on meeting and greeting people and other dogs this week, he is doing great. A little stand offish at first , but always friendly. A lady at the park to day commented on his name , Saying oh, Avery like the park. I said, yes that's where I got him, from some homeless people. She said, oh that's nice they gave him to you. For the first time I said, no, they really only gave him to me to take to the Vet, but I kept him. Her response was nice, "you did a good thing, how could you give him back". I thought, right, how could I, but I felt guilty for keeping Avery, really I did. I know in my heart of hearts I did what was best for Avery, but at the same time I knew the minute I saw him I couldn't ever return him to those people. He was sick, skinny, hairless and cried non-stop because of the pain he was in, day and night. It took weeks before he stopped the crying and longer before he stopped growling. I just now trust him, fully. He is in so many ways like my Shadow dog. Lance and I even joke and call him Shadow. After I took Avery in Lance said, you know you have a heart the size of Texas and a brain the size of Delaware. I find that to be a compliment! ha ha ha. Avery makes me laugh and want to play in the sunshine. What more could a person ask for!

Sometimes I question all things

2007-06-14T18:43:00.000-07:00

Those days when all things just seem complicated, even the simple things like taking care of furry loved ones. Thankfully Traz is better. He recovered from being sick, but still is not walking good. We ARE getting old. That is just a fact. Having Avery in our lives, sometimes makes me forget that fact. He makes me laugh, daily. What I love most about puppies and Avery is no exception, they stick close. He lays near me, know matter what. He watches my every move. That is good and bad! I had a nice conversation with the guy that brought our freight at work today, he has two small dogs, one is nearly 18 years old. That is like a life time commitment! I hate that large dogs live such a short life, but at the same time, I wouldn't have known and loves so many if they lived twice as long. Today I am grateful that Traz and Avery played in the park and I got to join in. I am grateful that this weekend we will be together as a family to enjoy another Fathers Day with my Dad and I am grateful for the love of three great dogs and one special husband

The Good Rug

2007-06-08T18:39:00.000-07:00

To my horror, we woke to a monumental mess all over the rug we just bought for our new kitchen. Poor Traz had a bad night. The vet put him on a med for the inflammation/pain, but when I called her she said it shouldn't cause this, most likely it is from all the poking and prodding, stress induced, which sounds about right, for Traz. Why I'm even trying to clean that rug is beyond me, guess I hate to just throw it away. The vet said to feed Traz Pumpkin, 3 Tbs a day, so I started that this evening. On the up side, Traz is getting around much better and seems to feel very good. I had all three dogs with me for the whole day today, it was too much. I think Traz will get to rest at home more now, which might do him so good anyway. Tomorrow will be a better dog day..!

Traz & Me

2007-06-03T18:41:00.000-07:00

Alcatraz is on my mind a lot as of late. It seems all of the sudden he got old. Dogs lives are so fast, it always catches me off guard when more years have passed than are ahead. Traz is having a very hard time with his back legs. This is something new. I want it to pass, to see him heal, but that's not happening. I remember this part with Shadow, so afraid to hear what the vet had to say. Traz is the most faithful dog a person could have. He has more patience with puppies than I do and has helped me raise two now, Nixie and now Avery. He didn't run with Avery as much, but he kept him busy in other ways. He never lost his temper with either of them. I have enjoyed walking Traz to the park these past couple of years, hes always a perfect gentleman and never chases a squirrel until I tell him OK. I hope he has many years of the chase left in him.

Favorite Poem

2007-06-03T07:16:00.000-07:00

The Power Of The Dog by Rudyard Kipling

There is sorrow enough in the natural way From men and women to fill our day; And when we are certain of sorrow in store, Why do we always arrange for more? Brothers and Sisters, I bid you beware Of giving your heart to a dog to tear.
Buy a pup and your money will buy Love unflinching that cannot lie-- Perfect passion and worship fed By a kick in the ribs or a pat on the head. Nevertheless it is hardly fair To risk your heart for a dog to tear.
When the fourteen years which Nature permits Are closing in asthma, or tumour, or fits, And the vet's unspoken prescription runs To lethal chambers or loaded guns, Then you will find--it's your own affair-- But...you've given your heart for a dog to tear.
When the body that lived at your single will, With its whimper of welcome, is stilled (how still!); When the spirit that answered your every mood Is gone--wherever it goes--for good, You will discover how much you care, And will give your heart for the dog to tear.
We've sorrow enough in the natural way, When it comes to burying Christian clay. Our loves are not given, but only lent, At compound interest of cent per cent. Though it is not always the case, I believe, That the longer we've kept 'em, the more do we grieve: For, when debts are payable, right or wrong, A short-time loan is as bad as a long-- So why in Heaven (before we are there) Should we give our hearts to a dog to tear.

New And Old

2007-05-28T18:31:00.001-07:00

Avery is in love with the view from his new second story window. He sits here until he's so tired he falls asleep. I caught him just as he was drifting off , and still, for a change. He is sleeping on the oldest thing I own, a Cedar chest my folks bought me when I was a teenager. Back then they were called Hope Chests, I guess hoping to get a husband was the idea of it. Mom and Dad filled it with things I would need, silverware, plates and such. I have all my prized possessions packed in it now, old albums, my wedding dress (that Mom made) old things of my husband Lances too. Tomorrow will be one year since Mom passed away. It hardly seems possible that it's been that long. We went to the cemetery as a family yesterday, it was nice. We talked of old times gone by. Jan brought flowers that we placed on all three stones. I didn't feel sad like I worried I would. I felt so happy to be there with the ones I love. To have had those wonderful memories of growing up with people that loved life and had no regrets of how they lived it. Today I am grateful to be free. To have wonderful "dog nose art" on every window in my house and in my car and to love and be loved by wonderful people and beautiful dogs.

Animals to Love

2007-05-20T18:12:00.001-07:00

We stopped all the moving and hauling of things to celebrate a monumental Birthday, my nephew Curtis is turning 30 in just a few days...it seems impossible, I remember holding him in my arms and now he towers over me! He's standing at the far right. My brother Jon is bottle feeding the goat, that was really fun to watch. Dad standing and enjoy it all. Jan taking a picture also. She is the proud parent of this sweet little thing. We had a great day enjoying time with our people family. Our dog family did fine in the new house, for the first time left alone, minus Avery that is, we just picked him up this morning from the farm/kennel that kept him for the weekend. When I took him he got a look at a couple of horses close up, his back hair went straight up and he barked, hes tough, ha ha ha. Nixie does not seem happy to have Avery home, but I know things will settle down and all will be fine again. Traz is tired tonight. A lot of stairs for the old guy to climb. Tomorrow I will have all three dogs at work for the full day, instead of 1/2 the day. Give me strength. Today I am grateful that all three of my wonderful furry kids are a sleep right now so I can rest....!

Let's Not Eat It......

2007-05-14T18:25:00.000-07:00

I find myself saying that often..Avery what is in your mouth, lets not eat it..! Nixie..Drop it..Lets not eat it...! Traz...Please..Lets not eat it...ha....Today was a great dog day in Oregon. Nearly 80 Degrees, barely a cloud in the sky. We ran in the park like it was already summer. Avery went with us to the new house today, he loves the stairs. Moving day is fast approaching, we are ready, all of us, ready for a change. Today I am grateful for other peoples blogs to read, ones that make me laugh and think about life in other places. I am grateful for my wonderful husband, whom slipped today when I said, I am so glad Avery came into our lives, he returned with "me too" He often acts like having three dogs is insane, but I know he loves each just as much as I do. This picture is Nixie, in the woods about a year ago. She loves to jump on things. This picture isn't very clear and she looks goofy on that rock....! I love pictures of her best when she isn't looking so serious!

Sasha

2007-05-08T18:29:00.000-07:00

This is Sasha, our first gsd. I found this picture while packing. It seems like a life time ago that she was in our life. I still miss her. I use to think time healed all wounds, but now...I think..time moves on and takes us with it.
Today, I am grateful to have had the joy of wonderful dogs in my life, grateful to live where I can run with them in lush grass and play stick as long as my arm will throw!

Nixie The Queen

2007-04-28T18:11:00.000-07:00

Nixie is by far the most beautiful dog I have ever seen and she knows it...!

Big dogs love small places

2007-04-28T18:09:00.000-07:00

Traz in Avery's crate. I guess I dont have to worry that Avery is getting to big for this crate yet!

Nixie and Avery on the Sofa

2007-04-28T18:07:00.000-07:00

One of the rare times Nixie let Avery up with her, when I was looking that is. I see them getting along fine when Nixie doesn't notice I'm looking...!

Avery looking like a dog already!

2007-04-28T18:05:00.000-07:00

What a handsome guy he has become and so loving too

more pictures

2007-04-28T18:04:00.000-07:00

Avery in the sprinkler! O what fun getting wet is

A day for pictures

2007-04-28T18:03:00.000-07:00

Avery infront of the dogwood tree. He's working on getting a tooth out

New Poem Written for Shadow

2007-04-27T16:38:00.000-07:00

Under The Dogwood Tree

A small fuzzy pup, black and tan with ears that barely stood up. One big brown eyed look was all it took, she had me hooked. I would promise from this day forward to feed and nurture her, walk and train her, this the job of a woman who a pup has.

Little did I know in her cute fluffy frame, hid the heart of a lion. With leash in hand, our life together began. Tug on toy's, not pant legs. Come when Called, sleep when put to bed, stay close to home. Don't chase the horses, cow's or cat's. All seemed normal things to ask. Nothing I did took hold, this pup was so fierce and bold.

Time passed, changes came to us both. My voice calm and quiet and she with her howling hello. To say I gave up would be wrong, but give in, right on.

Over our years together she was my constant companion and friend. She took me places where trees grew tall and flowers wild. Water in falls and quiet ponds. Steep mountains that required stopping to reset before reaching the crest. Her head out the window with wind rushing past her, even on the coldest days, this I gave. My promised words empty, when all it really took was one word, unspoken, love.

On her final day, I promised again, to see her go from this life, right to the very end. She rode in the truck and ate donuts for lunch. I cried endlessly, angry that I couldn't hide my pain on this day, our last. Her head in my lap, my hand stroking her beautiful fur, I told stories about this fierce pup, strong as a lion, who never gave up. To feel her heart not more tore me like nothing ever had before.

A dogwood tree we planted above her as marker. Below, my tears mixed with earth and her ashes. Each spring the tree blooms, large pink flowers we admire. I feel her there, I feel her everywhere. she changed who I am~~~~~~~

I stood next to the dogwood tree a few days ago, wondering how I will leave it behind when we move. Avery came up to me an poked me in the leg. I know Avery was sent to heal my broken heart. Lance had a great idea, dig deep around the dogwood tree, take some of the earth and plant it with a new tree at our new house, that made me feel better. He always makes me feel better.

Time for a change

2007-04-22T08:42:00.000-07:00

This is our family at Christmas last year. It was a fun evening. My Dad still amazes me with his quick wit and great outlook on life. I did notice his memory is starting to fade. When I mentioned the location of our new house, reminding him the road is the same one where we boarded the horse he bought my sister and I, of course that was 35 years ago! A new house! I am excited and worried all at the same time. This house is the only home all three dogs have ever known, so I worry about the change for them, but we need more space! The addition of Avery made our house feel much too small. I think the change will be good for us all. We will be closer to family and farther from our business. When I look at this picture I feel how happy we were on this day and am so grateful for having a great family.
Avery is cutting teeth, very hard on the little guy. We just had a good laugh as Traz managed to get himself into Avery's crate, Lance got a picture so I can add it to the blog on another day. I think we are going to get them all new beds soon so they can break them in good before we move. Nixie might still get to be on the sofa as she needs the extra padding, and I'm a softy for her sweet brown eyes looking up at me! Time for a trip to the park..!