Doodle Bug

Bye Bye Tonsils

2011-03-06T22:47:00.000-08:00

My granddaughter Aubrey is having her tonsils taken out tomorrow . Although she has never had a throat infection or any real problem with her tonsils she has what is called, "kissing tonsils". Which means her tonsils are so enlarged they touch each other in the back of her throat which can cause breathing problems ( she has always snored ).
We had a dinner for her tonight to say goodbye to her tonsils and she chose the menu of chocolate chip pancakes and bacon. Yes, this girl who is finicky about eating loves bacon and apparently loves breakfast food. We all enjoyed a wonderful dinner with an egg dish made by grandpa , bacon and chocolate or blueberry pancakes plus fresh sliced pears.

After dinner Aubrey requested to have a jacuzzi bath in grandma and grandpa's jacuzzi tub by candlelight so after a bath with Juliet we let her turn on the jets and enjoy a bubble bath by candlelight. It was quite the family affair with grandma, mom, dad, Uncle Kurt, Aunt Alisha, Zoe and little sister Juliet crowding into the bathroom to visit while she lounged in the bath. It seems it takes all of us to get the girls all bathed!! LOL!!!

Juliet loves taking her bath "Splish Splash" she loves to SPLASH!

AHHH... Aubrey relaxing in the bubbles by candlelight

Sleep well tonight my little Aubrey, we are all praying for you and a speedy recovery. LOVE YOU!!!

Valentine Playhouse for the Granddaughters

2011-02-07T09:44:00.000-08:00

I had wanted to get a playhouse for the granddaughters for Christmas but the one I found wouldn't fit through our gate and would require a crane to get it into our backyard so Brad decided he would make a playhouse and we were hoping to do so in time for Easter. Well, as I walked through Costco last week I saw the most darling of all playhouses and it was in a box and reasonably priced. Brad said "buy it" because it would be a lot cheaper to have a kit and a lot quicker. So, after 10 hours of carefully putting it together we have the cutest playhouse sitting on our patio. We may put it out in the yard in the spring but for now it is just perfect. The girls were all excited and dolls and blankets were quickly put in as well as a stove and cooking utensils. The playhouse has a pretend sink, a bbq, and a doorbell. Imaginations can now run wild!

Proud Grandpa Brad

Elancer's Enchantress of the Night "TESS"

2011-02-01T17:19:00.001-08:00

I traveled up to Washington on January 15 with my car fully loaded with my mom, Tess and little Ivy. It was a long drive but I enjoyed having my mom along to have someone to talk to and keep me awake. I arrived in Olympia on Sunday afternoon and my mom took the Amtrak on up to Everett to visit with my sister in Lake Stevens. I then had two days to visit with my good friend Julie Clemen and have her check out Ivy ( to evaluate her structure and size to breed) , get her OFA x-rays done and get ready for the show. On Tuesday afternoon Annette Sullivan,( my other dog show mentor ) and I took off to Portland, Oregon for the Belgian Specialty Show and the Rose City Classic, 5 days of showing of which I had entered 4 days.

January 19, 2011 and I was excited and nervous about going into the ring with Tess for the first time since my neck surgery and it had been over 8 months for both of us (Tess is 20 months). She was washed, brushed, groomed and in SEASON!!! Yikes, I had to keep my distance from all the other dogs so it was kind of lonely being isolated. In any case, we entered Open Bitch class and when the judge pointed to us and said Winners I staggered in surprise and then the tears began flowing. I was so happy and so excited to realize Tess had earned a 5 point major at a Specialty Show!! Well, if you are familiar with dog shows , Winners Bitch goes right back in for Best of Breed competition so I had to get back in control of myself and take some deep breaths and head right back into the ring .

Entering the Best of Breed ring is always a little intimidating as you see the Champions enter and then Winners Dog followed by Winners Bitch. Being a Specialty there were lots of entries so it is a beautiful site to see all the Black Belgians in the ring. After examining the entries and announcing Best of Breed I once again was so shocked to see the judge point at me and state "Best of Winners" and "Award of Merit". He told me she was a beautiful dog and loved her movement and structure. This is a day that I will always remember - another dream come to reality in the world of dog shows.

Who Is Out There?

2010-11-22T20:00:00.000-08:00

I enjoy blogging and do it for myself but I wish it had a thumbs up comment like Facebook so I'd know if it was even being read. Lol, all but one comment on my blog over the last couple of months have been written by advertisers or people from India
Anyways, I'm going to make an effort to leave a comment of some kind when I read a blog. Hmmm... However, I do visit some blogs that have no idea who I am so I won't leave a comment on those. Lol

Saucie at Paso Robles and Playing with new Camera

2010-11-21T12:35:00.001-08:00

Saucie outside in the sun after winning BOS at the Paso Robles Dog Show - Points toward her Grand Championship

CH CR Simply Irresistable --Won Best of Breed and a Group 1 in Toys

Playing with camera took picture in Group

Playing with camera took picture of Bloodhound in Group

Saucie is home from Paso Robles and is exhausted!! Taking a nap with Ivy and Sterling on youth bed in playroom/office

Serafina's Mickey Doodle Bug CD,RE

2010-11-07T16:10:00.000-08:00

He did it!!! Mick finally completed his Companion Dog Obedience Title on October 17, 2010. Mick is my first Pom and my first dog to compete in AKC obedience with but it has been a dream of mine since I was a little girl to title a dog with a CD. I read a book as a child called, Champion Dog Prince Tom and it is a story about a dog earning its' obedience titles. Well, that book still sits in my bedside table. Yep, I've always dreamed of competing in the "Dog World" but who would have ever thought I would start this hobby at the age of 52

Yes, this is the book that started my dreams. I actually think the dog in this book was in hunting competitions bbut it all seemed so fascinating to me to have a close working relationship with your dog.

I have always loved animals and did obedience with my dalmation named Sadie but she wasn't registered and therefore couldn't compete. We dabbled in showing dogs using a handler when we had Bouvier's but I personally had never entered any kind of ring with a dog.
I got Mickey in August of "05 as a "show prospect" and made an agreement with the breeder that I would try to show him as a conformation dog. Well, at ten months he was diagnosed with Legge Perthes and had to have the head and neck of his femur removed and he was neutered at the same time. There went my dreams of showing Mick but with the encouragement of new found "dog friends" in Washington I started training Mick in obedience.

Mickey on the day I brought him home at 8 weeks of age

It was in "06 that AKC Rally was really becoming popular and Mick loved it. Rally is doing obedience but you follow signs in kind of an obstacle course. There are three levels, Novice is on lead, Advanced is off lead with one jump in the course and Excellent is off lead with 2 jumps. Together Mick and I quickly completed his Rally Excellent title winning a ribbon in all but one trial.

Mick jumping in Rally Competition

Mick earning his Rally Excellent Title

I also began competing with Mick in Novice Obedience but he definitely preferred all the "happy talk" that goes on in Rally verses no praise during exercises in Obedience. However, Mick earned two legs toward the required three legs for a CD getting a First Place and a Second Place but in between , there were 4-5 trials where Mick would break a stay at the last 15 seconds, refuse to sit in the hot sun and walk over to the shade or just lag so bad he lost points so the last leg evaded us. Mind you, Mick is smart and knew what he was doing when he broke a stay or lagged, he just always seemed to have his own agenda.
In 2008 Mick injured his bad hip so I had to pull him from competing because a dog can't enter the ring limping.
So , finally, on October 17 Mick and I competed in the Bakersfield Obedience Club Trials. I only entered him one day because I really didn't have high hopes and it costs $28 for each entry. Mick and I practiced twice a day and he hadn't lost his ability to do the obedience and was really looking. When I entered the ring that day many of the members of my obedience club were watching to see if Mick would finally cooperate and finish his title.
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Mick during the on-lead portion of the competition. Check out that look he is giving me and his complete attention.

Mick did really good on the on leash portion of the course , completed every automatic sit and looked up at me each time with his cute little smile. He did the circle 8 without flaw , the stand for exam and now it was time for the off-leash portion of the competition. Mick was FANTASTIC! He did lag a little at times but he is a little guy and in order to keep his interest I have to keep a brisk pace to keep him focused. Mick did the Recall like a champ running to me as fast as he could and finishing on command like a well trained dog. Now it was time for the Sit and Down stays for 1 and 3 minutes. YIKES!! He had disqualified several times at this point so I was nervous because he had never broken a stay in training, only in competition.
Mick did it!!!! I love this boy, he helped me accomplish a dream I've had since I was a little girl reading about Champion Dog Prince Tom.
Now I have my own Serafina's Mickey Doodle Bug CD, RE. Thanks MICK, we are a great team and I love you little guy

Playing with Uncle Gibby (Jacob)

2010-11-06T15:28:00.000-07:00

What fun to have an Uncle who is a big kid to play with. You can see how much Aubrey and Zoe adore their Uncle Gibby.
Gibby is actually what Aubrey called Jacob when she first met him. She was almost two and we all thought the nickname was so cute it has just stuck. :-)

Make a free picture slideshow

This series of pictures was taken at Calvin Crest just outside the dining hall.

Happy Halloween

2010-10-31T22:57:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful afternoon with a BBQ to celebrate Kurt's 25th Birthday and Halloween at Joe and Virginia Howard's. The girls were excited to be in their costumes and Aubrey could hardly wait to go trick or treating.

Juliet's First Halloween

Aubrey as "Wonder Woma"

Thompson's as "Super Family"

Aubrey has the power!

Juliet can fly as "Super Baby"

Zoe as "Baby Smurf" and Alisha as the Smurf Cat

"Baby Smurf Zoe"

Baby Smurf being held by Papa Smurf

Papa Smurf unwrapping birthday presents

Smurf Family

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-27T23:33:00.000-07:00

It has become a yearly family outing to head to the Banducci's Pumpkin Patch each fall and take pictures amongst the pumpkins, scarecrows and fall decor. I got back from a week in Washington last night and today we all (minus Brad who is gone on a camping trip) headed out for a fun evening.

Aubrey and Juliet

Justin, Barbie, Aubrey and Juliet

Alisha, Kurt and Zoe

Zoe in her big boots

Grandma and her granddaughters, aren't I blessed!!!

Zoe trying to pick up a pumpkin

Aubrey was told she could pick any pumpkin at the farm for Grandma and here it is!!

Pony rides for Aubrey and Zoe

Kurt made sure Zoe stayed on the pony but both girls LOVED the ride!

Happy day, Justin throwing Aubrey up in the air

Aubrey's First Soccer Game

2010-09-19T00:15:00.001-07:00

Aubrey, who just turned four played in her first soccer game today. She's the smallest on the team and mom had to tie up her extra small shirt so it wouldn't fall off.

Aubrey had moments that she wasn't really sure if she wanted to get into that swarm of kids

Aubrey had a great day and we all had a lot of fun cheering her on.
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It sure brought back lots of memories of watching my own three boys playing soccer but now I'm the grandma watching my granddaughter play!

Blogging vs Facebook

2010-08-29T14:32:00.001-07:00

I know, I know, I haven't blogged since EASTER!!! I've tried to come up with a reason I haven't been blogging and I think it is because:
1. Facebook is easier and quicker
2. It was a way of keeping Jacob up to date with the family while he was out of the country for 3 1/2 years
3. I don't think anyone actually reads my blog anyways, it is just kind of my personal diary.

So, I'm going to make an effort to blog again but mainly because it is such a good way to scrapbook pictures and events . Here it goes:

It was 111 degrees in Bakersfield on Wednesday, in other words it was HOT!!!! Saturday was a whole different story and the day was beautiful , sunny, slight breeze and in the low 80's . My eldest son Justin called that morning and asked if I wanted to go on a bicycle ride with him and the girls. We had a great time on the bike path riding to the River Walk Park and playing on the toys. Afterwords we injoyed a lunch at Chick Fil A . All in all a very enjoyable day.

Heading out on the bike path

Aubrey at almost 4 has become so much more independent... riding her bike happily down the path

Aubrey climbing on the toys

Whee! What fun to run at the park and play on the toys!

Aubrey loved jumping off the wall and then telling me " it's ok Grandma, I'm not hurt"

Juliet loved swinging

Aubrey pushing Juliet on the swing, Juliet with her ever present happy grin

Ready to leave, one more drink of water and off to lunch.
Well, I see I haven't blogged since Easter but I've figured out that Facebook is so much quicker and easier yet at the same time, I miss out on my journaling. I really don't think anyone looks at my blog anyways but it was a way to journal so that my son Jacob who was gone for 3 1/2 years could keep up to date on family activities. Well, he's been home since February and I just kind of fizzled and took a break. However, what I like about blogging is that you can tell stories with pictures so here goes....

Easter Egg Time!

2010-04-02T12:26:00.001-07:00

Aubrey came over last night with her mom and dad and sister Juliet to eat dinner and then dye Easter eggs. It was so fun to share in a child's excitement of dyeing Easter eggs.

BEAUTIFUL RESULTS. EASTER IS HERE AND WITH IT THE PROMISE OF LIFE EVERLASTING

Happy Easter

2010-04-01T09:12:00.001-07:00

The family is all together now that Jacob has returned from his 3 1/2 year bicycle journey and the family has grown!! Three beautiful granddaughters were born during the time Jacob was gone. Time seems to go so fast!

Greeting card generated with Smilebox

Uncle Gibby meeting Zoe and Juliet

2010-02-22T13:23:00.001-08:00

Uncle "Gibby" = Uncle Jacob, when Aubrey met Jacob a year and a half ago she named him "Gibby" and we thought it was so cute it has remained Gibby. Jacob finally returned home from his 3 1/2 year bicycle trip and was introduced to two new nieces that were born while he was gone. Aubrey was also born while he was gone but she met him when he returned for a short time to earn money to continue his journey. Jacob was home for Aubrey's second birthday.

Zoe meets Gibby. Zoe is 10 months old

Juliet meets Gibby. Juliet was born 1/1/10
WELCOME HOME UNCLE GIBBY!!

Thompson Girls

2010-02-21T07:37:00.000-08:00

I got the best Valentine present this year!! This is a picture of my granddaughters. Juliet, the baby was born 1/1/10 and is the baby sister to Aubrey (3 1/2 years old) and they are the daughters of Justin and Barbie. Zoe, the dark haired girl is the daughter of Kurt and Alisha and just turned 10 months old. Aren't I Blessed?

CIRCUS

2010-02-15T14:15:00.000-08:00

I got to enjoy a whole day with Aubrey on Saturday while her mom, dad and baby Juliet traveled down South for a day of Ikea shopping. We enjoyed playing house, tea party , shopping for Valentines and we went to visit the zebras, camel, llamas and horses that were downtown for a circus. While we were there I decided to buy a ticket for the 5 PM show and Aubrey and I hurried home to eat some lunch and get a little rest before the big show.

The circus was enjoyable although certainly not a Ringling Bros. Circus but the Ramos Circus so everything was bilingual but it was exciting for both of us. They started it off by letting you in for the 5PM show and then trying to sell you everything under the sun for the next 30 minutes. They sold food, drinks, cotton candy, bubble guns, lighted swords, clown glasses, pictures, and face painting by a clown (of course, we went for that).

Aubrey excitedly clapped for dancers and clowns and then fell asleep while the circus and the noise continued with her in my arms.

We had a very good time. I love being a grandma and I love having a little girl to do fun things with and soon I will have two more granddaughters that would love to go to a circus

Introducing: ELANCER'S ENCHANTRESS OF THE NIGHT

2010-02-02T16:09:00.000-08:00

I was able to travel to the Rose City Classic in Portland,Oregon to show my 7 month old Belgian Sheepdog,"Tess " January 20-23. I packed up the Volvo and made the long drive with Tess to meet up with my mentor and friend Annette. This is actually my third Rose City Classic but it had been to show Pomeranians. Annette and I met up and Rachelle, the breeder I got Tess from and I had an action packed week learning to groom and handle a Belgian, meeting fellow Belgian owners and having just an all around good time. It is quite a different dog to handle, groom and show so I appreciated all their mentoring in the breed. Don't I look happy!! Tess is a beautiful girl and after spending 7 nights and days with her I have definitely bonded with this beautiful dog.

Juliet Noelle Thompson

2010-01-02T10:13:00.000-08:00

I became a grandmother to a beautiful little Juliet Noelle on New Year's Morning. Isn't that the perfect way to start the new year?

Admiring their blessing from God

A family of four . My third grandchild, my third granddaughter, life is so good.

Dancing in the Snow at CALM

2009-12-30T10:41:00.000-08:00

We all bundled up and went to the CALM Holiday Lights display. Aubrey and Zoe looked so cute riding in the double stroller.

Aubrey and Mom ( She went into labor the next evening and Juliet was born 1/1/10)

Proud Daddy's

Aubrey loved the snow machine and was so excited about the "snow" I just loved the happiness that catching snowflakes gave her. I call that her Dancing in the Snow Happy Dance.

Time Moves Forward- Christmas 2009

2009-12-27T11:58:00.000-08:00

Christmas was very different at the Thompson household this year. To begin with, there wasn't the huge gathering of the extended family due to the fact my brother and his family were in Hawaii, sister Julie in Washington, Marti & Ron planning to travel South to be with their kids and grand kids and Mom planning to fly to Seattle ( she ended up not going). Jacob is still traveling so this is our 4th Christmas without him, my dad passed away in February so this was our first Christmas without him. However, we celebrated our first Christmas with our new Granddaughter Zoe, Barbie and Justin's new little one is due at any time and Aubrey at three years old was excited and filled with the wonder of Christmas so it was fun to see through her eyes the wonder of Christmas activities, decorations and music. Oh yes, and I also attended my first Christmas program as a grandparent and watched Aubrey stand up on stage and occasionally ring her bell and sing a line or two (wow! did that ever bring back memories.)

We got together with each of us bringing a pot of homemade soup ( split pea, French Onion, Potato-Sausage), salad and bread on Christmas Eve and my mom joined us in the festivities. So, with our bellies full of soup, a warm fire burning in the fireplace we enjoyed an afternoon with each other celebrating Christmas.

Memories of past Christmas' filled my head from when I was a child getting a Mary Poppins doll from Santa Claus to watching my own children's thrill as they saw what Santa had brought them on Christmas morning. It seems like just yesterday when Justin and Jacob got cowboy hats and toy guitars and now I am watching my own grandchildren, yes, I am watching my grandchildren open gifts and delight in the excitement of Christmas. It is hard to believe that time has passed so quickly. God has so richly blessed us and how sweet it is to watch Aubrey as she plays with the Nativity set and talks about the birth of Jesus and sing Away In The Manger .

We are looking forward to the new year and a new addition to the family and the return of Jacob who is finishing up the last miles of his 3 1/2 year bicycle ride down the Continental Divide. We expect Jacob to return to us late January or early February .
Hurry home Jacob, we are so excited to know that you will soon be home.

Christmas Cookies with Aubrey

2009-12-14T20:42:00.001-08:00

Aubrey wanted to come to grandma's to make Christmas cookies. We had fun mixing the dough, rolling it out and cutting out Christmas trees, Santa Claus, Snowflakes, Stars and Snowmen. Yummm! they were very tasty with frosting and sprinkles of sugar

Frozen Shoulder

2009-12-10T06:48:00.000-08:00

My knee was one year old on December 2 and I am so totally thrilled with the difference in my life now that my knee doesn't limit me and cause pain like it has since I was in high school. However, I'm really discouraged right now because I have been diagnosed with a "new" orthopedic condition. Now, I know I shouldn't be discouraged but if you know me I have had more than my fair share of medical problems ... knee, feet, ankle, gall bladder, Bell's Palsy, female issues and the list goes on. Oh well, I start physical therapy on Tuesday and pray for good results because right now movement with my left arm is very minimal and very painful.

"Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes restriction of motion in the shoulder joint. The cause of a frozen shoulder is not well understood, but it often occurs for no known reason. Frozen shoulder causes the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint to contract and form scar tissue"

Family Baths

2009-12-03T08:58:00.001-08:00

Last night Zoe came over to have a "Family Bath" with grandma . Also in the bathroom was , Kurt, Alisha, Mickey, Ivy, Tess and Grandpa!! SHE LOVED IT!

Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T19:02:00.001-08:00

This was a very different Thanksgiving for our family... Mom went with Bob and family to the Roper cabin up in Glennville, Marti and Ron had Julie, Sean, Andy, Lyndsay and girls and we went to the Howards to share Thanksgiving. I brought the turkey and a pecan pie and we had a great time sharing our little granddaughter Zoe. It is so nice to have a good relationship with Alisha's family and we really had an enjoyable time. My son Jacob is riding his bicycle somewhere in Argentina so there was an empty space for us but we are hopeful that he will be home soon.
Brad enjoying a turkey dinner

Justin, Barbie and Aubrey at the table

Aubrey racing grandma

Zoe

Aubrey "exercising in the front yard"

Aubrey playing Soccer

First Thanksgiving for Zoe

We are full, content and so thankful for all of God's blessings on our family

Finally!!!

2009-11-18T12:59:00.001-08:00

After over three years without a functioning bathtub and over 2 years with just a hole in our Master bathroom where a tub should be, a new bathtub was installed on Monday!! Now I know some people wonder why in the world it took so long but there is a long involved story because we had insurance on the tub but they really didn't want to tackle it and in the end we gave up so the tub just said there, unable to be used due to a leak. Brad wanted to replace it with the same exact tub so the dimensions wouldn't change but you couldn't order it without a Contractor's license and then he wanted to install it and then we were told it was difficult and then, and then and then. You get the idea. Well, last week we decided to call the contractor and show him some bathtubs we'd found on line and in the meantime I went to Lowe's and found the exact measurements we needed. So...

We now have our jetted Jacuzzi tube installed!! We have to custom order the spout but we hooked up a hose so little Aubrey could christen the tub because she has always asked about that hole in our bathroom . In fact, we haven't had a tub since she was born but as you can see, she is certainly enjoying it now!

Work

2009-11-15T09:20:00.000-08:00

I graduated from nursing school in 1976 so that means I have been working as a nurse for 33 years!! Yikes, where does the time go? As a nurse I have done a little of everything from camp nursing, public health, home, hospital and then for the last 20 years I have been doing school nursing. The field of nursing has offered me opportunities to work per diem, part time, full time and just about any schedule I want if I was willing to make compensations elsewhere.

2 1/2 years ago I changed jobs from being a District School Nurse to working for the Superintendent of Schools as a Program Nurse where I've worked with Alternative Ed students, Pregnant and Parenting Teens, Cal Safe, grants, Migrant Ed., you name it and I do it. I originally changed jobs because I felt I had lost my enthusiasm for nursing in a district and had become somewhat apathetic about my job.

Well..... after working for the County I find I am no longer apathetic but I do find myself working longer hours, more days, spending hours on a computer,putting together State Reports, learning about budgets, personnel issues, grant writing, time-lines, teaching classes, developing programs.... and the list goes on. So, the job is interesting, challenging , frustrating and exhausting!!

Yesterday I held a Nutrition Workshop for 30 Child Development teachers and put together Power Points, agendas, evaluations, sign-in sheets, hospitality, prizes, set up computer, projectors, organized for stipends, downloaded music for the program , etc. I couldn't believe how much is involved in one workshop!! Thankfully, I have a very good consultant that works with me and did a fantastic cooking demo/nutrition education and two other young ladies that helped put together my Yoga demonstration and the "make and take" activity. All in all, the Workshop was a fantastic success and I feel like it was a great accomplishment.
OK, so now I'm going to take Monday off !!!! Haven't I worked long enough that I can retire and watch grand babies? LOL!!!

The "Nutrition Team"

Happy Halloween

2009-11-02T19:08:00.000-08:00

The Evil Ivy Halloween Witch ( our little hand-raised puppy is 1 months old!)

Elliana came to visit from Hawaii dressed as Stawberry Shortcake

Aubrey dressed as a Pink Kitty Cat

All was well to Elliana took Aubrey's bag of candy, lol, check out her expression
Mick, Gage and Ivy . Saucie refused to pose this year and let her daughter pose and Tess is just far to active to get into a costume and take her picture by myself.

Making Apple Crisp with Grandma

2009-10-22T07:34:00.001-07:00

Aubrey loved using the "apple peeler, corer, slicer" on the apples she had hand picked up in Tehachapi. We made a delicious Apple Crisp

Competing Pairs

2009-10-18T18:48:00.001-07:00

Last weekend was really a busy one with Bakersfield Obedience Training Club holding its' Obedience Trial for which I was Hospitality plus I entered Mick in Novice and Mick and Gage together in Rally Pairs. We had a blast. In Rally Pairs the dogs are coupled together on the same leash and do the rally course of obedience side by side.

Bath Time

2009-09-20T19:37:00.001-07:00

Zoe being given a bath by her Daddy, looks kind of surprised to get her picture taken, lol.

Aubrey with a dirty face and wild hair getting a bath at Grandma and Grandpa's

Happy Birthday Aubrey

2009-09-09T18:29:00.000-07:00

"Birth"day 9/8/06

First Birthday

Second Birthday

Third Birthday. What a beautiful young lady you are growing up to be.

Happy Birthday my dear Aubrey. These past three years have allowed me to fall in love with the sweetest little girl and to be her grandmother is even better. I love you.

Zoe

2009-08-24T05:46:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to get some pictures of Zoe but she has been sleeping or not cooperative, however, this past weekend Kurt and Alisha invited me to go to Cayucus and stay with her parents in a condo they rented for a month so I drove over Saturday morning and stayed till Sunday afternoon.
Zoe is a very easy going baby that lets her parents sleep in, rarely demands anything and is just in general a very content baby. Not to say she doesn't have her moments, after all, she is a girl so she doesn't like the dirty diaper and will let you know she is hungry or needs a nap but even then she will go a lot longer than any of my kids ever did before letting you know what she needs.
She is a very loved little girl by her doting parents and of course, grandparents. Her smile will light up your world.

Name Tags and Morning Mischief

2009-08-16T12:59:00.001-07:00

Well , just an update to say that the crated dogs have done well the last two nights. You can see I had to add name tags to personalize their "CAGES" These are the happy faces that greeted me this morning . They all got baths and groomed last night .

OH OH!! I left the hose on in Doodlebug Park overnight and guess who played in the water?

That's right , "Tess the Mess" and "Evil Ivy" rolled in the water and mud and I had to bathe Ivy again this morning. Doesn't she look proud of herself after getting her second bath in 8 hours?

Bicycle Rider/Crate Training.

2009-08-14T20:04:00.000-07:00

Aubrey has conquered bicycle riding and is she ever proud of herself. She came over last night to show me her new skill by riding all the way to our mailbox.

OK, so I have to confess, when we got Mick he slept with us from day 1. When we got Gage , he joined us sleeping on a pillow on our bed between Brad and I. When we got Saucie , yep, she joined the boys in our bed. Well, when IVY came along we put her into a crate and she did fine but due to lack of sleep I just couldn't make it through the multiple times having to get up when she cried to go outside. So this time, we were told and agreed -Belgians's don't sleep in your bed (well, maybe when I take a nap but not at night). In any case, we're doing great and she sleeps in a crate and some nights she makes it through the whole night. It doesn't help that Brad gets up at 3-4 in the morning and wakes them up on occassion.

Well, the other day I awoke from a nap and Brad was on the computer ordering 4 small crates for the Poms. He decided if his dog was in a crate then mine were in a crate. Hmmm.. it might lead to a better nights sleep , that is after they get used to it so tonight we will give it the first try becasue the crates arrived and are all put together so what do you think?

Welcome to Doodlebug Park Kennels :-)

Aubrey Happy playing in the Sprinklers

2009-08-04T22:40:00.000-07:00

Aubrey came over tonight and was playing in the sprinklers. She was so happy and was actually smiling for pictures and I loved her expressions. She's growing up so fast and is going to start going to pre-school 2 days a week starting Thursday as Barbie prepares to start back to work. Where does the time go? My little granddaughter is growing way to quickly.

Busy Summer

2009-08-01T16:32:00.001-07:00

Wow! It has been a long time since I've posted but that is because I've been really busy. I got home from Peru and spent almost a week at home and then took off to Olympia, Washington to visit my friends, sister, niece Bethany and her new identical twin boys. This is a picture of Bethany holding Isaac and the other identical pea in the pod is Levi. Aren't they cute?

My sister Julie holding her grandson Isaac.

I arrived in Olympia to visit with my friend Julie and to go to the Stumptown Dog Show with Annette. While I was there Julie evaluated my little Ivy and it seems that she will be a good show prospect once she does a little maturing. She was entered in Portland and did fine but no ribbons, we are going to let her coat catch up to her body and then start entering her so she can hopefully become a Champion like her mama Saucie.

Picture of Annette and I and Julie and Kevin riding in a horse drawn carriage through the streets of Olympia. The little furry one is Harmony , a very, very tiny Pomeranian.
I stayed with Annette for a couple of days and got acquainted with her Belgian Sheepdog, Santana. What a beautiful and big dog he is!! Annette made arrangements for me to go see a litter of Belgian puppies at her friend Rachelle's while I was there too.

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This is a picture of the mother of the litter

The end result of my Washington trip was picked up in LA Alaskan Cargo Thursday night around 11 PM

Introducing, Elancer's Enchantress of the Night "Tess"
Yes, I know, I've gone to the dogs! It will definitely be a new adventure to show a Belgian Sheepdog and Brad will be doing obedience with her while I do obedience with IVY. No empty nest around this house.

I Am Home - Thompson's Gone Peruvian

2009-07-05T10:21:00.000-07:00

I arrived home from Peru around 1:30 am after Brad picked me up at LAX. It felt good to come home to my husband, my family and my fur babies. The weather is hot but it feels good to me and the dogs are very excited to have me home. Little Ivy took a couple minutes to figure out who I was but was happily sucking on my hand once she remembered (she was hand fed and has always liked to suck on the web of my hand).
I brought souvenirs home for kids and grandkids and as you can tell, we've all gone Peruvian!

Peru Video Vignette

2009-07-02T14:06:00.001-07:00

Peru Photo Gallery

2009-06-26T18:37:00.000-07:00

Hopefully this works, the link below should take you to different albums we are posting of Peru. They are unedited and I must let everyone know the Machu Pichu photos were all taken with a wide angle lense, I am not really that wide!
Currently I am in Arequipa getting ready to take a tour of Colca Canyon and see the Andean Condors for the next 2 days. If these albums work correctly you will click on one of the pictures and see either the Museum of Archeology, City of Lima, Pisaq, Machu Pichu,Cusco, Arequipa and Cañon de Colca. When I get home I´ll work on editing and eliminating some of the unnecessary ones and write a description of what you are seeing. ENJOY, I sure am!!!
When you are in the album, the bottom right hand corner is a square with an arrow and if you click on it the pictures will be full screen size.

Machu Picchu

2009-06-24T18:22:00.000-07:00

Where do I start, how can you describe the incredible beauty of an ancient Inca Machu Picchu surrounded by snow capped Andes Mts.? Jacob and I awoke early to catch the bus at 5:15 from Agua Calientes to Machu Picchu. As we ascended into the ruins you were met with the breathtaking site of terraced ruins , rock walls and structures indicating a whole society had lived there. There were houses, temples, storage houses, water systems and grazing llamas. Your imagination of a time past came alive as you absorbed the magnificence of Machu Picchu . We spent 8 hours walking up rock steps that Inca´s had cut from the stone and then used in the late 1400´s. We saw their temple, the area where they sacrificed llamas and guinea pig, their amazing architectural and rock cutting skills, we saw wild chinchillas, we saw where a society of Inca´s lived. Absolutely amazing and I believe we took over 400 pictures and hopefully I´ll post a few before I finish this entry.
We explored Machu Picchu for a couple of hours by ourselves and then had a three hour guided tour. Because of a train strike no tourists could get up to the ruins unless they got to Agua Calientes yesterday so there were probably less than 400 tourists exploring the area compared to a usual 1600 tourists.After our guided tour we rested on an ancient wall as llamas grazed no more than four feet from me.
My new knee and arthritic foot held out well and I didn´t miss anything at Machu Picchu, I climbed up and down every path there was, sometimes a little slower than others but I did it and I was amazed at how good a shape I seemed to be in having no problem with all the exertion and the altitude.(maybe my rail walking helped)
I am so thankful God has given me this opportunity to explore another part of his world and to share this experience with my son, Jacob.

Agua Calientes in Peru

2009-06-23T08:54:00.000-07:00

Peruvian children in Pisaq

Standing by a ruin as our van is being repaired

I am currently sitting in an Internet Cafe in Agua Calientes at the base of Machu Pichu. Beautiful Andes mts. surround me, the air is clear and cool. Jacob is working at the computer next to me and all is well. Yesterday was another story . It started by us scheduling through a travel agency a 7 hour bus drive to a train station where you were then transported to Agua Calientes and after spending a night there you took a bus up to Machu Picdhu. Well, this was no ordinairy bus ride, we traveled through steep rocky dirt roads overlooking a deep canyon where there wasn´t enough room for 2 vehicles to pass. We passed through little towns with markets , children playing and many Peruvian´s in their native dress, you knew you were in a foreign country. After many bumpy areas in an van filled with 8 people our van broke down.... the driver sawed a piece of wood and put it somewhere up in the axle area? YIKES!!! It took him an hour or so and we knew our schedule was tight, he kept trying to call because he needed to purchase our train tickets for Agua Caliente. When we arrived in the town that those tickets were to be purchased the station was closed, we had a flat tire and things weren´t looking good. When we arrived at the train station we were told the train was full and that we would have to walk along the train tracks to Agua Calientes, we were told it was a short 1-2 hour walk.....(that is definitely not true if you are almost 55, had a knee replacement 6 months ago and have had foot and ankle repairs) .
Well, I will leave out a lot of the details as Jacob tried to get me on that train , we were so frustrated with the travel agency arrangements but because of our van breaking down twice we all missed the bus and began walking down the tracks at around 4:45 PM. Jacob and I laughed and talked as we started on our ¨"Adventure" carrying our back packs and all our possessions (I have some great pictures I will post later). Two hours into the hike I was beginning to tire but surely we were almost there but by now it was also pitch black!!! Let me tell you, walking rocky railroad tracks in the dark with knee and ankle problems wasn´t fun but luckily we had headlamps to give us a little light on the track if you constantly looked down.
OK, now imagine it is dark and we are in the middle of the Peruvian Jungle all by ourselves.... fireflies, birds making noises... beautiful but I hadn´t eaten since 7 that morning other than some soda crackers. To make a long story a little shorter we arrived in Caliente Aguas at a little before 9PM having walked over 7 miles, yes that little walk on the tracks was SEVEN MILES in the pitch black jungle. I only fell once and when we finally reached Agua Calientes I began sobbing. Exhausted and frustrated but oh so glad it was over. A travel agent came and met us and we arranged to stay another night so we could rest today before climbing Machu Picdhu and take the train back to Cusco Wed. evening , no more dangerous bus rides over rocky roads overlooking deep canyons .
My knee is doing great but my foot and hip is really sore today. Jacob is a loving , concerned son who is taking fantastic care of his Mom, this is such a special trip and I will try to keep updating and should be able to post pictures soon.
I will be ready for Machu Pichu tomorrow!!! This adventure to Machu Picdhu has been a dream of mine for many years. Hopefully the soreness will lessen and I will have another night of sleep and be ready. I have so much to share about this trip but this was quite the adventure yesterday!!

Walking the tracks

Starting to get dark walking the tracks to Agua Calientes

Peru Here I Come

2009-06-17T08:24:00.001-07:00

As I sit here entering this blog my husband is irritated that I'm not packing for my departure to Peru this evening. However, since I probably won't be updating till I get back I'm going to blog about why I'm so excited to be leaving on my trip and why I wouldn't let myself get to excited till yesterday.

It all started 2 weeks ago when I was sitting on the couch reading emails from my iphone when I noticed I felt really strange and then when I felt my chest I could tell my heart was really beating fast. I woke Brad up and placed his hand over my heart and he sat upright and said "You are going to the ER!". Now, I had no pain, no shortness of breath but I couldn't even count my heart rate because it was so fast. When I got to the hospital they pretty much checked my BP and heart rate and whisked me back, started IV, EKG, monitors, drew blood and had about 6 people were scurrying around my bed and the doctor said I was having Supra ventricular Tachycardia. They even had the defibrillator ready to use. The doctor placed a bag of ice on my face with no results so he began carotid massage ( MY HEART RATE WAS 194) with no results so he said to just bear down as if having a baby. Well... that did the trick and slowly my heart rate lowered to the 90's. After some observation they let me go home with instructions to see a cardiologist the next morning. I saw the cardiologist and he kept telling me what a high risk person I was and I could have heart block or kidney block or etc.... HE TERRIFIED ME!! He ordered labs, x-ray, echocardiogram and a Thallium Stress Test. I asked if these could all be done within 2 weeks because I had plans to leave for Peru.

Yesterday I had my last test and spoke with the doctor. He was much more pleasant this visit and he looked over my results and said, "Have a nice trip". AHHHHH what relief, nothing was abnormal and he decreased my medication and said everything checked out fine.

So you see, I couldn't get real excited about the trip till I had the final OK from the doctor because I sure didn't want to be in some foreign country with medical issues. Pray for me, pray for Jacob, we are going to have a BLAST!!! I leave today and return very late on July 3.

Graduation

2009-06-14T09:10:00.000-07:00

WAY TO GO YOU TWO!!
I was very proud to attend the graduation of my youngest son, Kurt Preston Thompson this week from CSUB with a BA in Child Adolescent and Family Studies and his wife, Alisha Siusan Thompson with a BA in Liberal Studies. Kurt received his diploma in March but walked on Friday in the ceremony. Alisha was amazing taking a full load this past quarter along with giving birth to little Zoe and yet she completed her classes and became the first person on either side of her family to graduate from college!! CONGRATULATIONS ON A JOB WELL DONE

OR SHOULD I SAY WAY TO GO YOU THREE!!!!

Disneyland with Aubrey

2009-06-09T13:12:00.001-07:00

I spent Sunday at Disneyland with Justin, Barbie and Aubrey. We had a great time with good weather, minimal crowds and lots of excitement. Aubrey wanted to ride the rides with me and was so very happy to share Disneyland with me. We rode the carousel several times, Dumbo, roller coasters, Matterhorn and even visited the California Park for a couple of hours. I must say, Aubrey is an "adrenaline junky" because she was game for any ride. I'm sure the Matterhorn was a little scarey but she had her arms up and had a great time. We also went on this huge Ferris Wheel where the cars slide and swing as it goes around. Some of the pictures will show that it took us by surprise but Aubrey's concern was that her "Baby Minnie" was ok. LOL!! We had a great time and were totally exhausted by the time we got back to the hotel. I had to cut my trip short and come home the next morning but Justin, Barbie and Aubrey are still there as I write this.

I got very few pictures. We lugged this huge camera around but I had the wrong lense on it and it was such an effort to get it out I sometimes took some pictures with my iphone.

Thompson Girls

2009-06-06T11:43:00.000-07:00

Aubrey loves to come to Grandma's as now I'm accumulating lots of fun activities. I got a table and chairs and an art easel at IKEA a couple of weeks ago so now the attraction is to paint, use chalk and markers, have tea parties, take care of her babies and just about everything a little girl likes to do

Zoe , although not old enough to join the fun is growing and becoming more interactive. It won't be long till she and Aubrey can sit at the table and have a tea party together. I'm loving GIRLS!! # 3 grandchild is on the way and I'm willing to tackle a boy again or add to the granddaughter numbers all I want is a healthy baby and an easy pregnancy for Barbie. It is so exciting to know that the family is growing again!!!

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My Mom

2009-05-25T10:55:00.001-07:00

This is a picture of my mother and I that was taken at the Mother's Day Luncheon held at First Presbyterian Church. Doesn't she look beautiful? My mom will be 83 years old on June 2.

I have been very blessed to have been born to a mother like her. She is a very strong woman and has very definite opinions but then so do I. Hmmm... wonder where I got that from? She is a very loving mother that would do anything or give anything you needed from her because her love is unconditional. I love you mom.

This is a picture of my mom and I when I was around 2 years old

Mothers Day and BIG NEWS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-05-12T17:14:00.001-07:00

Proud Papa and Grandpa

Great Grandma Burdette

Dedication

Aubrey playing outside church building

Zoe Adalyn Thompson was dedicated at The Bridge Church on Mother's Day. Isn't that just the best day to have a dedication! It was a really nice service and afterwards we went to Sonic for lunch. Later that evening we enjoyed a BBQ at Joe and Virginia Howards where Aubrey got to swim and Brad and I got our first experience playing Wii !! It was a blast and I know what I'm getting Brad for Father's Day (shhhh...)

For some reason I can't upload pictures so they will be there when I can but I have to continue with my very very BIG NEWS!!! I am going to go visit my son Jacob !!! I booked a flight to Lima Peru leaving June 17 and coming back on July 3!!!! I am so excited because I have always wanted to go to Machu Picchu and I am going to get to see it !!! I talked on the phone to Jacob today as I booked the flight and he will meet me at the airport and our adventure will begin. He did tell me however, to come with just a backpack!!! Yikes , that will take some planning and I'll have to do without my curling iron but I will be ready for the adventure. I can't wait to see Jacob

Gage and Saucie are 3 years old!!

2009-05-09T18:39:00.000-07:00

Saucie and Gage

Saucie, coat is back in after loosing it from having Ivy

Gage .Doesn't he look very intelligent? Gage is the sweetest and most loving little guy.

Gage and Saucie turned 3 on May 2 they are brother and sister even though they have totally different looks. I have been involved with Pomeranians now for almost 4 years!! I've had to take a break from the show ring and obedience due to the fact Saucie had the baby and I had knee surgery however, Ivy is almost 5 months old and at 6 months she can start being shown in puppy class so I'm busy getting her used to a lead and being groomed.

Ivy is 4 months old and definitely in what they call the "MONKEY FACE" stage

Grandaughters

2009-05-02T22:49:00.000-07:00

Life

2009-04-25T14:15:00.000-07:00

Life has been busy! Work has really kept me hopping with the Nutrition Grant that I am Project Coordinator for so I included a picture of a classroom stir fry demonstration where these first graders got to try Bell Peppers, mushrooms, sugar peas, asparagus, Jerusalem artichoke and several other veggies in rice. Yumm!
I'm now a grandmother to 2 beautiful girls and feel so blessed to have such wonderful daughter-in-laws.
Ivy is 15 weeks and getting cuter by the day.

ZOE's Bath

2009-04-19T16:29:00.000-07:00

Isn't she darling? This was taken after her first bath at home and she was wide awake from being bathed.

Zoe Adalyn Thompson

2009-04-14T07:34:00.000-07:00

OMG!! What a feeling!! I am a grandmother to a second granddaughter!!! God blessed me with sons but he has now doubly blessed me with beautiful granddaughters. Alisha gave birth this morning at 4:56 AM to a 7 pound 19 1/2 inch beautiful baby girl. Alisha was admitted shortly before 11 PM and rapidly progressed and delivered little Zoe without any medication. What a Trooper !!! I was honored to witness the birth of Zoe along with her other grandmother and lots of tears of happiness were shed by both. Congratulations Kurt and Alisha and welcome to the family Zoe.

Spring has Sprung

2009-04-12T11:18:00.000-07:00

It has been awhile since I've posted but life at the Thompson household has been busy. The first picture is my beautiful little granddaughter Aubrey with her new "Paci Princess Bear". Her mom and dad took her to Build A Bear last week and she put all her old pacifiers inside the bear and had it sewn up because now , "she's a big girl". Well, it is kind of working, she hasn't had a pacifier but mom and dad are having to put up with a little girl who at times desperately wants a pacifier and claims, "I'm not a big girl, I'm a baby!!" Smart girl , huh?
Ivy is almost 13 weeks old and as you can see she has an adorable little face. She is beginning to hit the "monkey face" stage which Poms hit and they start loosing their puppy coat beginning with the face so it gives them a little bit of a monkey face look. Aubrey thinks that is the funniest thing when I call Ivy monkey face that she laughs and laughs and then calls Ivy "Monkey Face".
The last picture is of my daughter-in-law Alisha, isn't she about the cutest pregnant person you've ever seen? She has just come from the doctor in this picture and they said they wouldn't be surprised if she delivered this weekend as she is already dilating and 90% effaced. We are all eager and anxious to welcome the newest Thompson and praying for a easy delivery for Alisha. Ahhhh.... I can hardly wait to hold a little baby, to see my baby holding his baby.... life continues.
Today is Easter so I know I'll be posting some more pictures later as we are all gathering for Stacki-Uppi at 5:30 PM

IVY at 11 Weeks

2009-03-24T18:02:00.000-07:00

Growing IVY

2009-03-13T15:34:00.000-07:00

Nine weeks old! Full of energy, full of mischief, full of herself .

7 1/2 Weeks

2009-03-01T19:59:00.001-08:00

Ivy is almost 8 weeks old now. She is quite active and loves to play outdoors.

Ivy is 6 weeks old, Time for a bath

2009-02-18T21:10:00.001-08:00

Ivy is six weeks old today! She is quite the active little girl and loves to play with Mick and Gage, chew on Brad's shoes, play with toys and run all over the house. She gets very lonely at night and still wakes us up occasionally at 4 am for some food and or comfort. WOW! it is like having another baby but we are both enjoying her thoroughly.

"DADDY"

2009-02-07T13:34:00.000-08:00

I write this blog with tears in my eyes but they are tears of happiness and sadness mixed together. Early this morning my father, Preston Howard Burdette peacefully left this world and we celebrate his homecoming with Jesus. The family has been together laughing and crying and sharing memories of a man who has left a legacy . He leaves behind his wife of 65 years, his 5 children, 16 grandchildren (he is now with his granddaughter Kelsey) and 21 great-grandchildren with at least 4 more to be born this year.
My father loved each and every one of us and shared his love of Jesus with us and built a family that also loves the Lord.
Job well done DAD. I love you and I cherish my memories of you.

Valentine IVY

2009-02-07T06:52:00.000-08:00

Ivy is 4 weeks and 3 days and is eating food but still likes an occasional bottle. She loves to play with Uncle Gage and Mick and of course Brad.. Ivy is letting us get six hours of sleep now and is feeding every 4-5 hours during the day. So, just like parents, we celebrate her accomplishments and any sleep we can get! I couldn't resist taking pictures of her with this little Valentine Bee that sings and dances to the song "Sugar Sugar". She was so amazed with this toy but as you can see she eventually played with it

Doodlebug Parks' I B A Daddy's Girl "IVY"

2009-01-29T17:12:00.000-08:00

She has a name! I felt Brad needed some recognition because he has been doing more than half the feedings these past two weeks since I returned to work. He gets up at the 2 or 3 am feeding so I can get some sleep and he leaves for work so he can be back for the 11 am feeding!! Anyways, Ivy just seems like the perfect call name for her so Ivy she is.
These pictures show how big she's getting (15.7 oz. today) and she is 3 weeks plus 1 day old. She was introduced to real food last night as we begin the weaning period and she devours all the food you put in front of her. She's walking around, very busy little girl and is hard to keep a hold of while feeding. She can down her bottle in about 60 seconds.

She's Growing!

2009-01-20T22:02:00.001-08:00

These pictures were taken this morning. I look pretty good after 13 days of feeding every three hours around the clock but by the end of the day I am WASTED. She now weighs 10.4 oz and turns 2 weeks old tomorrow.

8 DAYS OLD

2009-01-15T20:24:00.000-08:00

She is now 8 days old and weighs 8.2 oz so she has doubled her birth weight. Mama Saucie is interested in her from a distance only so that means we are required to feed her every 3 hours around the clock and make her poo and pee, burp her and brush her. Brad has been very helpful especially since I also returned to work this week and he has been able to do the 10am, 1pm and 4pm feed so I don't have to come home. Most important of all Brad volunteers to do the 4AM feeding so I can get a stretch of sleep between 1-6am.
Aubrey was over tonight and petted her for the first time and actually held the bottle for her after she had already finished eating. She is a lot of work but like parents of a new baby we are enjoying her and are excited by poops, weight gain and watching her every movement. We haven't come up for a name yet so we are open to suggestions. I think my kennel name will be Doodle Bug so ..... Doodle Bugs' Fat and Sassy or Doodle Bug's Princess. I want something unusual possibly even the name of a bug like Circade and then call her Katie or ?????

It's a Girl!

2009-01-08T16:56:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Saucie delivered a 4.1oz beautiful baby girl by C-Section at the Bakersfield Veterinary Hospital. Saucie woke me up around 5am and was obviously in early labor and was scheduled to be admitted at 7am, I called and asked if I brought her at 6am would I be charged the emergency fee and they said yes, so guess who waited till 7am? They didn't do the section on Saucie till after 12 because it turns outthey let her try laboring since the puppy was in the birth canal but they ended up performing a C-Section. Now remember, the x-ray last week showed only a singleton puppy and that it was going to be way to big to be birthed by Saucie so I was worried that I had some kind of "monster" puppy but this little one is very average and quite the beauty. In the pictures the only one taken in natural light is the one of her in the box and this is the only one that shows her true color, the rest make her look much redder than she is. The general consensus is that she may be a Blue Cream Sable. That would be avery unusual and beautiful color so now we just need to wait and see.

Now for the nitty gritty, Saucie has no idea what this little "alien" is, all she knows is that she hurts and this thing wants to crawl over her and suck on her sore tummy! She wants nothing to do with the baby at this point. So.... Mama Kim had to get up and bottle, poop and pee this little girl every 2 hours!! This morning I got Saucie to lay with me and allow the baby to nurse but she wants nothing to do with cleaning it or loving it yet.

Wish me luck, I am very invested emotionally and monetarily in this beautiful baby girl. We are hoping that Saucie will be feeling good enough to take over total responsibility but till then.... set the alarm it is time to bottle the baby!

Saucie is scheduled for a C-Section!

2008-12-30T14:25:00.000-08:00

I took my very pregnant little Saucie to the vet today to discuss options with her new vet and get an x-ray to find out how many puppies she would be having. I have been feeling what I thought to be two puppies for the last week or so and was anxious to find out exactly how many puppies there were. Well, the vet came back after taking the x-ray and said that I needed to come back and see the picture myself. It was unbelievable, it was one, yes ONE BIG puppy that completely filled her from end to end!! You could see its head and you could see Saucie's pelvic bones and you knew that a scheduled C-Section would be the method of delivery for Saucie!!
I'm disappointed that I won't have a "litter" of puppies but excited that soon there will be a puppy in the house. Of course a c-Section will mean some bottle feeding and taking care of mom for a day or so but I'm excited and can't wait to find out if it's a boy or a girl and what color it is. LOL, it is kind of like having a baby .... anticipation.

Kelsey Jean

2008-12-26T19:21:00.001-08:00

I just came back from saying goodbye to a little girl that was gifted to our family for the last 22 years. Kelsey Jean, my little niece that came into this world to teach our family about LOVE was peacefully allowed to go home with Jesus this evening after a very quick progression of an illness. We were all blessed with her presence and are celebrating that she is now dancing in heaven , happy and perfect, our little Kelsey.

I can't say goodbye to Kelsey without also paying tribute to my sister and her husband who took care of and loved this little girl for 22 years. It wasn't easy but their devotion and love for her was endless. They made decisions for Kelsey that they knew were right and stuck to them . We all learned a lot from Kelsey, and even though she was never able to talk Kelsey could light up a whole room with her little smile.

I love you Kelsey, I know you are so happy to be with Jesus

Merry Christmas from the Poms of Doodle Bug Park

2008-12-11T20:00:00.000-08:00

Minimally Invasive???? 7 inch SCAR!

2008-12-10T16:35:00.000-08:00

Well, I survived the total knee replacement and if I'm able, I will place the picture of my knee at the bottom of the page so it won't just be staring at you when you open my blog but I'm not always able to position my pictures where I want. In any case it has been one week and one day since my surgery and I am doing great!! I am so amazed at the lack of pain, I keep telling people it is more like "discomfort" due to the swelling but it isn't like surgical pain. I have a home Physical Therapist and am already getting around without a walker or a cane, can stand on the new knee one legged and am bending more each day. My therapist says she's never had a patient with this much movement and this much tolerance for pain before but she also agree it has something to do with having a very good surgeon. It is such a relief that the surgery is over and I am well on the road to recovery. Thanks for all the prayers and well wishes.

This picture of my knee at a funny angle but the incision is seven inches long, there is some purple ink visible from measurements also. Hmmmm.... when they said minimally invasive I was hoping for a 3-4 inch scar.

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-30T14:21:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving was spent at Kurt and Alisha's where they hosted the dinner in their new home. We enjoyed the Organic turkey and the Honey Baked Ham and shared the dinner with Alisha's parents and Justin and Barbie and Aubrey. We were thankful for their new home and their expected baby and for the fact that Daisy survived her life threatening catastrophe and trip to the vet.
It has been really nice having 5 days off but I think I've spent a lot of it fretting over the "SURGERY" that I am scheduled to undergo on December 2. Yes, that's right the day is almost here to have a "new knee". I keep having to tell myself that I'll be so much happier with my new knee but somehow the reality of the surgery keeps overshadowing my thoughts right now.
I don't look forward to those first couple of days with the pain and then everyone keeps telling me how the physical therapy is "bad" too but that the end results are worth it. Hmmmm.... I keep telling myself that. Funny thing is, at this point and time I probably have the least discomfort I've had for months or even years. Why does it happen that way? I mean, 8 weeks ago I couldn't even straighten my leg, had my brace on all the time and got very little sleep at night due to the pain . However, right now my knee is a nagging pain but I think I've limited my activity so much that I am not as aware of my knee as I usually am. Of course, there is no stability to my knee at all and grabbing on to things for balance has become a "norm" for me.
Oh well, pray for my surgeon and for God's wisdom as the doctor makes decisions about my surgery, pray for me to trust and for a speedy recovery.

Puppies?

2008-11-10T17:24:00.000-08:00

For the past year as I have been showing Saucie I've wondered in the back of my mind if I would ever get the courage up to breed her. Now, I know that doesn't sound like a difficult decision but "Toy" dogs can have a lot of difficulties and frequently require C-Sections. The pregnancy could also put Saucie at risk.

Well, after a lot of thought, a lot of looking into who would be a good stud for Saucie I decided to go through with it. Saucie came into season about 6-8 weeks sooner than I expected so all the decisions had to be made very quickly. I took her to the vet on Thursday and had a Progesterone Level drawn that indicated the time to breed was NOW!!!

I traveled to Reseda on Friday and Sunday where she was bred with a beautiful little cream sable boy that was imported from Italy and owned by Leesa. I'm excited and hopeful that my next little show dog will be in this litter but a healthy, free whelped litter of puppies with great temperments is my biggest desire.

Trick Or Treat

2008-10-31T21:42:00.000-07:00

Halloween has had an added interest for 23 years now, my youngest son, Kurt was born October 31, 1985. We celebrated his birthday tonight by going to Famous Dave's for a delicious dinner with Kurt , Alisha, her parents, Justin, Barbie , Aubrey and Brad and I.

Aubrey came as Cindy Lou Who from Dr. Seuss, Justin was The Grinch, Kurt was Dr. Seuss and then Barbie and Alisha were Thing 1 and Thing 2. As you can see, they had a great time and definitely got into the spirit of Halloween costumes.

Happy Birthday my son, just think, next year you and Alisha will have your own little one to dress in a costume.

65th Anniversary for my Mom and Dad

2008-10-25T08:57:00.000-07:00

65th Anniversary

WOW!! Last night the family got together to celebrate our parents 65th Anniversary. What an amazing accomplishment and what a legacy this marriage has produced. My parents were married at 17 and 19 years of age during WWII, they were two kids in love and they had both come from homes that had been broken by divorce. Somehow, well, no with their faith in God they have been a committed couple that served the Lord and brought their family up to know that God has a wonderful plan for our lives.

My parents have 5 children, 4 daughters and a son, they have 17 grandchildren , 19 great-grandchildren, 2 more great grandchildren on the way (that we know of at this point).

We celebrated with a dinner at Lorene's and an Anniversary cake. A photo book was made with pictures of each child, grandchild and great-grandchild so they could have a memory book with everyone's photo in one place. It was an enjoyable evening of talking of the past and looking to the future.

Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad!

Riding the Spine Continues

2008-09-29T12:30:00.000-07:00

My Mom and Dad with my 3 sons

The family picture at Jacob's farewell

My son Jacob spent the last 2 months at home with his dad and I while working furiously on creating websites for people to earn more money to continue his journey into S. America. They left 2 weeks ago and according to my last conversation with Jacob they leave from Panama today paddling kayaks loaded with their bikes and gear to Cartagena which is 500 miles away. Yes, I wasn't to thrilled with the idea but he assured me they will be fine and he will be careful. He then tells me it is far safer than walking their bikes through Columbia where a whole squad of police were kidnapped 2 days earlier. Isn't that reassuring?

In any case, I thought it would be fun to share a few pictures of the commotion in our house while Jacob, Goat and JJ were packing their gear.

Kern County Fair "Best In The West"

2008-09-19T12:36:00.000-07:00

Last night Brad and I joined Justin, Barbie and Aubrey and we went to the Kern Co. Fair. We all had a great time eating corn on the cob, lemonade, carmel corn and riding a couple of rides. Aubrey loved the animals and actually got to ride an elephant and the pony. Barbie got lots of pictures but my battery died shortly after getting to the fair so I have only a few. However, as you can see, Brad and I took pictures in the photo booth. It was so funny because Brad said he'd never been in a photo booth and didn't realize that it would take 4 pictures. I kept trying to get him to make a face, kiss or smile but he'd make a face and wouldn't wait for the flash so I look stupid and he looks surprised!! It was a fun night and being a grandparent is wonderful, Aubrey was quite the trooper and although she had her moments we all had a great time at the fair.

Little Nemo

2008-09-13T16:01:00.000-07:00

Aubrey's newest interest at grandma and grandpa's house is our DVD of Little Nemo. Everyone in the family has watched it 3-4 times last week and now within five minutes of getting to our house she starts asking to see Little Nemo!!! I have all the Disney movies in VHS but very few in DVD so I think a trip to the store is in order. I am hoping Little Mermaid or something else will be of interest to her too.

Look at the intensity of her face ....

Official Picture

2008-09-05T19:33:00.001-07:00

Championship Picture

CH Rise N Shine's She's So Hot

Saucie

Channing's New Ball

2008-09-02T22:26:00.000-07:00

This video is of Rise N Shine's Hot Property "Channing". Julie entrusted him to me to show in California for the next couple of months so I can get more experience grooming and handling a Pomeranian in conformation. He took Winner's Dog in his first show in Santa Barbara. Channing LOVES his toys and this is a video of his newest toy he enjoys playing with Jacob.

Aubrey Paige is almost 2!

2008-08-29T12:54:00.000-07:00

This is my granddaughter, Aubrey Paige.

She is full of smiles, loves to tickle, loves to talk, loves to come to grandma's house,

loves her mommy and daddy and family and friends and she is a lover of animals.

She's inquisitive and bright with sparkling blue eyes. She is the love of my life and I feel so blessed to be able to hold her and hug her and get sloppy wet kisses from her.

I love her happiness at being the center of attention of our family ,

I love bath time when she does her streak through the house

while laughing and squealing with joy.

I love my girl..... Happy 2nd Birthday on September 8.

Love, Grandma

CHAMPION Rise N Shine's She's So Hot "SAUCIE"

2008-08-24T19:12:00.001-07:00

CH Rise N Shine's She's So Hot "Saucie"

In the ring earning her Championship

at Santa Barbara Kennel Club Show

If you read the title of this post you must realize that I am thrilled beyond words. I entered Saucie and Channing in the Santa Barbara Kennel Club Show this weekend. After doing so I realized that if they both won I'd need someone to take Channing into the ring as I couldn't show two dogs at once. I kind of "tricked" Brad into coming with me by telling him we'd have a nice weekend away and only later added that if the impossible happened he might have to show a dog.Well, IT HAPPENED!! Channing won Winner's Dog, Saucie won Winner's Bitch so out into the ring Brad went with Channing and he was a great sport!! Saucie won Winner's Bitch, Best of Winners and Best of Opposite Sex on Saturday!!!! Sunday Channing won his class and Reserve Dog while Saucie again won Winner's Bitch, Best of Winners and Best of Opposite Sex!! What a sweep and best of all, she earned all the points to finish her Championship Title!! What a RUSH!!!

Brad greeted me coming out of the ring with a gold pendant ribbon that says CH (champion) on it. I was so happy to share this win with Brad, I usually go to the shows by myself so this made it extra special.

Don't ever let him tell you he doesn't like these dogs!! He's in bed feeding them pie!!!

I'll post the official photographs from the dog show when they come in

Home from Washington

2008-08-03T20:57:00.001-07:00

Rise N Shine's Hot Property "Channing" Channing jumping for his ball
Channing r eturning wit h his ball

I got home last Friday afternoon after a very long and tiring drive from Washington. The journey wasn't without incidence and 3 hours from Bfld. on the I5 I lost my car-top carrier, bicycle, luggage and misc. going about 75 miles an hour. No injuries and I recovered the luggage contents but everything else was destroyed at a cost of about $5600!!
My trip was fantastic , I stayed with my friend Julie and worked in her boarding kennel cleaning kennels, exercising dogs, feeding dogs, bathed dogs, groomed dogs and played with Julie's dogs . Saucie did well at the huge Stumptown Show in Portland taking a Reserve in a 5 pt. major but that means we are still needing 2 points for her Championship.
I have much to write about and many pictures to share about the journey but I'm going to post most the pictures on my website.
Now, this was no surprise to my family but I really didn't think I was going to come home with another dog but guess what? Julie offered to let me bring Channing home and show him in Southern CA for a few months and get some more experience. I am so honored to be entrusted with this beautiful boy and excited to be able to go into the ring with an Open Dog. Channing gets along great with my dogs and as you can see by the pictures, he is quite a jumper!
Well, vacation is over . I had a fantastic time but it was good to be back home with my husband and all three of my sons and 2 daughter-in-laws. Of course, I missed Aubrey and it feels so good to hear her calling me " Kimmie" and giving me kisses!!!! An after bath kiss

The Journey Knee and Me?

2008-07-09T17:04:00.000-07:00

Hmmm... this looks fairly robotic doesn't it? I had an appointment today with Dr. ferro who is an Arthritis, Orthopaedic & Sports Specialist who is a total joint replacement specialist. His conclusion.... the Journey Knee is what I need. That really wasn't the news I was wanting to hear, I was hoping I would be a candidate for a partial but he says more than likely the Journey Knee will be the best choice for my knee . The good news was that I could return to work (depending on how I was doing) limited basis at 2-3 weeks and by 12 weeks you are pretty much recovered.

Check out his website: http://www.bonejointcenter.com

This doctor who does about 6-10 joint replacements a week and has been in on the development of joint replacement surgery. He is based out of Arroyo Grande and San Luis Obispo but comes to Bfld. once a week.

Happy 4th of July/Happy Birthday

2008-07-04T18:30:00.001-07:00

Happy 4th of July from my little firecrackers!
Aubrey is ready for the fireworks
Saucie isn't sure what all the fuss is about
4th of July Birthday Pizza for Justin's 28th Birthday
Aubrey riding her tricycle with Uncle Kurt

Hmmm... I have the hardest time placing pictures where I want them and then I can't write around them. In any case I got this desire to have a 36" Cataldo's Pizza today so I called Kurt, Alisha, Justin, Barbie and Aubrey over for a 4th of July/Justin's Birthday Celebration. I am out of town for his birthday tomorrow so we kind of slid the birthday celebration in there too!

The 4th of July collar for Saucie was quite the hit with Aubrey and not quite the hit with Saucie.

Happy 4th of July

2008-07-01T20:23:00.001-07:00

www.youtube. com/v/QZFkZiwMLZ 4

Aubrey and Jacob

2008-06-26T19:17:00.001-07:00

Thought I would share a couple of pictures of Jacob playing with his little niece Aubrey when he was visiting last week. Jacob was on his bicycle ride when she was born so he got to see her for the first time in April.

Morning Glories in the morning

Aubrey eating her popsicle, the dogs were sure she would share it but as you can see from her expression, popsicles are serious business

We're Famous!

2008-06-22T10:28:00.000-07:00

Well, maybe not world famous but the newest issue of Bakersfield, a local magazine there is an article with a picture of Mick, Gage and Saucie. The magazine did their first "Pet Issue" and they found out through AKC the 10 most popular breeds in Bfld. and then interviewed owners that had these breeds. The reporter that came to my house was a beautiful young lady that was absolutely terrified of dogs!!! Yes, you read that right, terrified of all dogs. In any case, she and the other photographer took lots and lots of pictures, some with the dogs jumping their obedience jumps, some in "Doodle Bug Park" and some with Brad and I but this is the only picture they published.

Boys N Their Toys

2008-06-12T16:25:00.000-07:00

All three of my sons are in Bakersfield right now and yesterday they all went out to CSUB and shot off model rockets together. LOL! Brings back lots of memories because they loved rockets as little boys too! Doesn't it look like they had a good time?

Jacob Michael

2008-06-02T21:06:00.000-07:00

Well, one more son to be proud of ....

Some of you may not know this but Jacob has been back in the U.S. since the first of April. He had to interrupt his "Riding the Spine" jouney to come back and earn some money. Currently I hear very little from Jacob but he is living with friends up in the Santa Rosa area and working as a substitute teacher. He is also finding time to ride the river and hurt his shoulder. Jacob will be teaching a three week computer class in Los Gatos in July and then the three guys hope to pool their funds and head back to Panama to complete their journey on bicycle to the tip of Argentina.

Ahhh... got to love that adventuresome spirit (even though it terrifies me). Jacob is also planning to apply to Berkeley for their Journalism Program for the Fall of '09. After a couple of weeks of substituting he says he "hates teaching" so after getting a taste of writing several articles for magazines is thinking Journalism may be a better fit for him.

Aren't I just the luckiest mom to have 3 wonderful sons? God has really blessed Brad and I and we are very proud of each of our sons .

Kurt Preston

2008-06-02T20:58:00.000-07:00

Since I mentioned Justin's new job I must also say that we are also very thrilled that Kurt started a new job 2 weeks ago with Baker-Hughes. Now, the problem with announcing this job is I really have no idea what he is doing but it involves oil-well planning and computers. LOL!! He just got back from a week long training in Oklahoma City and his new bride Alisha, missed him a lot. The new job will work around his schedule as he finishes his last 12 units needed to complete his Bachelors. Kurt is working hard and learning lots and with his work ethics I know he will go far in the world of OIL. Hmmmm... not a bad field to be in right now. We love you Kurt and Alisha.

Justin David

2008-06-02T20:44:00.000-07:00

I am so excited and proud of my son Justin who just received the call today offering him a job as the Vice Principal of Special Ed. for Kern Co. Supt. of Schools. His position will have him working with emotionally disturbed children so it will really take a special person like him to work with this population. Justin has pursued his education with goals for the future earning his Bachelors Degree, Sp. Ed Credential for mod-severe, Master's in Special Education and this past January completing his Administrative Credential.

Congratulations my son, we couldn't be prouder of you and your beautiful wife and baby!!!

Mission Circuit

2008-05-27T13:20:00.000-07:00

This past week I traveled down to Pomona for the City of Angels Pomeranian Specialty and the Mission Circuit which is a 4 day dog show . I'm sorry to report we didn't finish her title or actually do very well there but it was a great learning experience and a time to see a lot of the So. Californian Pomeranians, owners and handlers. The Mission Circuit is a very "political" circuit with some of the best handlers from the country. Irregardless, Saucie and I can hold our own it just wasn't our weekend.

The great thing about this weekend was that I brought my camera and I had a friend take pictures of Saucie and I in the ring so you get to see a little bit of what a dog show is like.

Family Resemblance? You be the judge.

2008-05-20T21:34:00.000-07:00

Aubrey came over last weekend with her blonde hair in pigtails and she immediately reminded me of a picture that was taken of me when I was 2 years old. What do you think? (If you double click on the photo it will enlarge it). The most notable difference is, I have boring brown eyes and Aubrey has beautiful blue eyes, LOL (Barbie will get that joke).

Hot Weekend BBQ, Swim and Play

2008-05-19T06:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the family got together with my sister Marti and her husband Ron who were taking care of their granddaughter Gwenevere Scout. It was a hot 102 and Barbie and Justin set up a little pool, I had my sprinkler Octopus and a new little pop-up playhouse and Marti brought a pool of balls. Fun was had by the little 2nd cousins who are only 5 1/2 weeks apart, Gwen will be 2 in July and Aubrey in Sept.

We also barbequed hot dogs, sausage, hamburgers and corn on the cob along with serving a bean salad, potato salad, jello salad chips and lemonade. Yes it was a great weekend!

Posting to Post

2008-05-17T14:04:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted in awhile, life is busy as usual, in fact, I spent three days at a conference in San Jose for Sex Educators. LOL, yep, I spent a couple days hearing learning about sex and how to teach it to students!! The best part of the trip was that I got to go by Santa Cruz and visit with my son Jacob. He met me after a day of substituting and we had an enjoyable Thai lunch and then wandered the streets and stores of downtown Santa Cruz. My little boy has grown up and seems to really be thinking about the future. He is going to apply to Berkeley to their Journalism program for the Fall of '09 so hopefully when he gets back from finishing his bicycle journey to Argentina he will be able to go back to school.

These are a couple pictures of Saucie ungroomed, she is in the Pom Specialty in LA on Thursday so I'm very happy she has kept in coat. Of course, that is Gage sitting with the mushrooms.

Face Plant

2008-05-02T21:12:00.000-07:00

OUCH!! My beautiful little granddaughter didn't want to loose her ice cream cone when she tripped so instead of putting out her hands she fell on her face!! Big goose egg, bruise and scratches but as you can tell, doesn't seem to affect her. She was thrilled to get a Popsicle at Grandma and Grandpa's and show us her battle scars.

LOVE YOU DAD

2008-04-30T19:04:00.000-07:00

Last Friday I received a call that my dad was taken by ambulance to the Heart Hospital with an infection and that his blood pressure and heart rate were extremely low. As it turns out , he was one very, very sick man and stayed in CCU over the weekend and then was moved to a regular floor prior to discharge. Apparently he had a UTI that went into sepsis which led to collapse of his vascular system thus causing blood pressure and heart rate issues. He also has some history of bundle blockage of his heart and CHF. Thanks to antibiotics,Dopamine, doctors, nurses and a lot of prayer he is on the road to recovery.

My dad turned 83 years old this month and really has had very few major health issues so our family's world was put into a tailspin to see him so ill. God has blessed me with a very loving, caring and Christ loving father.I'm happy to report that dad is recovering and was discharged from the hospital Tuesday evening to go back to Assisted Living in Rosewood Gardens. He has a lot of healing to get his strength back but we are so thankful to have him feeling so much better.

LOVE YOU DAD!

Doodle Bug Park -and Rise N Shines Hot Stuff RN.RA,CGC "GAGE"

2008-04-30T18:49:00.000-07:00

The pictures above were taken this week in Doodle Bug Park which is an area on the West side of our house that is devoted to the Poms. It is about 1 1/2 years old now so the plants are finally taking hold and starting to grow. I have creeping fig that is supposed to climb up and cover the brick wall but it is really slow!
This is Gage, he is my first Rise N Shine dog and as you can see a real sweetheart. He is littermate brother to Saucie and since she has been getting most of the attention on this blog with her show success I felt I needed to recognize Gage too. Gage has been having some health issues so was given a break in his training but he is ready to get back to Rally and finish his Rally Excellent title. Gage and Saucie will turn 2 years old on May 2 so be ready for more pictures!!

The New World of IMAC

2008-04-27T11:17:00.000-07:00

This is me taking a picture with my new computer!! Yes, after years of my son telling us we should get an IMAC and our good friend Tom telling us how much better the MAC was we finally made the big step!! It actually started out as a joke because we were at Best Buys to purchase another keyboard for our PC (we seem to need to get them every couple of months)when I noticed the Apple Powerbook. I told Brad I wanted an Apple laptop for Mother's Day and he kind of looked around and said he liked the idea of me getting an IMAC and then he'd take the PC for himself in his office. Anyways, one week later I am learning about the new world of IMAC. The camera is just part of the computer and you can edit and email them so easy!.

Best of Winners, Best of Breed

2008-04-20T18:24:00.000-07:00

This is the picture taken at the Kern Co. Kennel Club Show where Saucie won Best of Winners and Best of Breed. I know this is kind of boring to people since she keeps winning but with no comments I have a feeling I write this for myself anyways. Saucie and I traveled to Merced the following weekend and she won Best Opposite on Thursday and Sunday!!! The win on Thursday gave her 2 more points and the win on Sunday was a Major win for 4 points. So, what does all that mean? Saucie has gotten both of her majors required for her Championship so now she only has to get three more points!! Iam thrilled beyond belief to know that she will more than likely finish her CHAMPIONSHIP within the next couple of shows, at least if she continues to be as successful as she has been the last couple of shows!!! I haven't received a picture from her major but yes, when it comes I will once again post a picture of SAUCIE!!! LOL!

Glasses

2008-04-12T13:26:00.001-07:00

This picture was taken by my sister Marti at a baby shower for our neice Anne. It was funny because if you look closely, my brother Bob, me and my oldest sister Lynn all recently got glasses and we all got the same color and shape. Tortoise Shell square glasses!!

TOGETHER

2008-04-11T12:33:00.001-07:00

For the first time since July of '06 the Thompson Family was together!! Of course, there has been 2 additions since that time , one being Aubrey who is now 18 months old and Alisha, Kurt's wife of 3 weeks. Jacob is taking a break from his bicycle journey to earn money to continue the ride by the end of July. This picture was taken of our family dinner with the camera on a timer.
Uncle Jacob enjoyed playing with his little neice Aubrey who is quite the talker and quite animated!!

Saucie Wins Best of Breed!! WB,BOW,BOB

2008-03-31T17:01:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, March 29, 2008 Rise N Shine's She's So Hot won First in Open Bitches, Winner's Bitch, Best of Winners and Best of Breed at the Kern County Kennel Club Show!!! This is an amazing win because she is a she (males win Best of Breed far more often than females) and I have only been showing since September!!! I was so thrilled and this is a picture my sister took as I was coming out of the ring. She earned four ribbons and a gold medallion. We also got to compete in Group which means the Best of Breed from all the Toy Breeds compete and then the winner of the Toy Group competes against the winner of all the other Groups for Best In Show.

Now, my next goal will be to place in Group and to finish Saucie's Championship ( she needs another major and some more points)!! Of course , I guess the ultimate goal would be to win Best In Show. I am having so much fun with our success and owe it all to my friend Julie C who gifted me with Saucie and has been my mentor in Poms and her cousin Annette who helped me with handling and grooming.