Surfside Collies

Been a While...

2012-01-31T15:09:00.000-08:00

Sorry it's been a long time since the last blog. I just haven't had time to sit at the computer long enough to type! Its been crazy, busy at work, trying to keep up with stuff at home, training like crazy, throw in a couple road trips and I am done!

We went up to the Piedmont Specialty a couple weeks ago. Katie handled Cat. They looked so good! They won the class both shows. The first one was a nail biter! The judge spent a lot of time going back and forth between Cat and another bitch. I was dying! In the end, she went reserve. The other bitch was nice too, so we aren't being sorry losers. She was a little older than Cat and more...mature looking. The judge had a tough time between them. I was SO proud of Katie. She was a bit nervous, with all the breeders and handlers there...but I think it is awesome for them to go reserve at a specialty. I was very proud of the girlies!

This weekend is the Atlanta shows...wish us luck! We decided to try and hit some conformation shows. I NEED to get Cat out and finished. All the while, training for open! Wish us luck!

Happy Training!!

Life's Little Joys

2011-12-23T06:37:00.000-08:00

We are not sure what is going on. The humans are wrapping stuff, there is paper and boxes all over the house, including our sleeping area. There are wrapped boxes with shiny ribbons that Cat likes to pull off. I prefer the boxes. Chewing them and pulling stuff out. It is great fun. The humans don't seem to appreciate it though. I'm not sure why...they put them on the floor, under the tree. The cooking cave smells great. We are on constant patrol for clean-up duty. My female human always slips us a tasty tid-bit.

Oh, I didn't mention the glorious tree! They brought a useless tree in from outside. You all know how I feel about trees, they do nothing but shed their coats. They don't move, even if we bark and bark. They put sparkly lights on and then placed all the "toys" for us under it. You know what trees are for don't you?? I thought the humans just didn't want me to have to walk all the way outside to pee on a tree...WHY are they yelling at me??

Happy Collie-Days!
Flash~

WOW!

2011-12-20T16:23:00.000-08:00

We went down to Orlando last weekend to the Eukanuba shows. What an amazing weekend. There were 11 rough collies entered and 27 smooths, usually those numbers are in reverse. I think about 24 smooths showed up. Tough for the judge, SO many nice dogs! Deb placed 4th with her bitch, which was very impressive. I also got to see Cage. I totally love this dog he is beautiful and smart! You and Cage looked good out there Babbi!

We watched some agility and some dock diving. We saw a couple collies in agility, I saw one VERY fast smooth dog fly! The Meet The Breed displays were awesome! Some of them went all out. It was a pretty cool thing to see.

I, of course, spent the best part of the day watching the NOI. What an awesome thing to see! I saw some of the top teams from all over the country! I did find it a bit confusing at first, but between Curt and Susan, I learned the flow. It takes a special dog and person to be able to handle stress at this level. Really got to see some amazing stuff.

I had a great surprise, in that Curt took the time and sat with me, (something I didn't expect..he was competing!!) telling me the ins and outs, pointing out all the top handlers, and previous years winners. We sat and watched the judges, handlers and dogs. I learned a lot, took lots of notes and all in all had a great weekend!! Even the "dog hater" had a great time :) We are SO going back next year!!

The Blues

2011-11-26T06:24:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is over, family went home. I am feeling better, looking forward to getting back to training. I have made a decision to just wait till the new year to get back in the obedience ring. I'm not back to regular training, Cat is in season, and I have a couple things to fine tune. Can't get up to Curt's till probably January, so it just makes sense to hold off.

I am training at home with her, Leslye is still not back to normal either, hoping she feels better over the next few weeks too. We are both going crazy sitting at home!

Not looking forward to going back to work Monday! I have been out for almost 2 weeks. One was planned vacation time, the other was for my "suprise" surgery. It will probably take me a week just to dig through the piles of paper that must be on my desk! YIKES!! Job security.....right?!

Thanksgiving

2011-11-22T08:18:00.000-08:00

It's almost here. I love Thanksgiving! Time for family, friends and eating!
My sister and her family will be here tomorrow. It will be extra special because my nephew is coming too!! I miss my "widdle" Mattie-poo!
The baking is almost done, I have done it over the past couple days so I am not doing too much. Ingrid has made several dishes for me so I could take it a little easy. I am very happy about that! It is different for me though...I feel like I'm not doing enough. Stupid surgery! I really thought I'd be back to mostly normal by now...though today, I actually feel pretty good. I usually don't let anyone bring anything and do it all myself. So it has been hard to sit back and let others do some cooking and thank God for Marty and Katie! They have cleaned the house, so I didn't have to!

Just a few last minute things to do. Everything is coming together. Hoping to be able to get back to training soon too. The doctor told me to lay off for a couple weeks, postop appt is next week, hoping to get the ok for normal activities!! I miss working the pups!

Feeling Better

2011-11-18T06:18:00.000-08:00

My surgery went well, recovery has been a little painful, but not unbearable. Hoping to be mostly back to normal in a couple days. I have to be! Got a crowd coming for Thanksgiving, no time to be laying around this house!

Poor pups. I haven't worked them much over the past couple weeks. Since I haven't been feeling very well. I have been tossing the dumbbell from bed for Cat. She is such a good girl. I think I will enter the Sawnee Mtn obedience trial IF I can get back into training mode in time. Grad novice for Cat and Flash. I think I will enter just one day, to see where we are.

I can't wait for both Leslye and I to be back on our feet again and back to normal training. We both miss it and I think the dogs do too. I imagine a couple weeks before I am 100%, hoping Leslye will be there too. Then we will be back at it.
Happy Training~

What Kind Of Dog Are You?

2011-11-09T15:12:00.001-08:00

Try this....let me know how you do!

I came up as a Puli!

http://www.gone2thedogs.com/ then click "game" on the left.

Whatever!

2011-11-09T14:58:00.000-08:00

I am SO glad I didn't enter the AOC trial...Cat DID come in season. Bummer for me, I was headed to TN for a private lesson this weekend. No problem, I have a "back-up" dog....Flash gets to go! He will be happy about that.

Poor Cat. She is ok for about next week or so, then she has to be on lockdown! Both of us hate it. However, I think the separation is good. She misses going different places and training. Don't think we won't be training, we just will have to work from home for a few weeks.

Her next "season" we will probably breed her. So, with any luck, there will be puppies Surfside in the early summer!

I'm Back!

2011-11-05T10:20:00.000-07:00

Hopefully, I will be able to blog more frequently. My laptop died, and I don't like to type a lot on the ipad. My "IT Guy" just got me a desktop computer set up so here I go!

Leslye is feeling better, still has a few weeks before she gets the ok to go back to regular activity. We are both looking forward to hitting our training hard again. I have not been a slacker, but I have missed her, and it is more fun to train with a friend!

Cat is doing great. IF she isn't in heat next weekend, I am going to TN for a private lesson, if she is, then Flash gets to come. I am very excited. It is always amazing when I go up there!

Well, gotta run, headed to get a bit of training in at the building! Catch ya later!

Happy Training!

CAT Test

2011-10-30T15:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we took Cat for a CAT test. She failed. However, I am going to try it again, next chance we get. It was SO much fun and I think she can do it. I had never watched any lure coursing, and found the whole process very cool.

Just to watch the dogs run, with such full on joy and focus was a treat in itself. There was a couple sight hounds that were breath taking to watch. Whenever I see a dog doing what it was bred for, it takes my breath away. The terriers faired pretty well too. A little toy poodle, a couple american bull dogs, an english bulldog, and most amazing to me a basset hound passed the test. They were a delight to watch!

Some of the herding dogs would actually try to herd the lure, staying to the side, watching where it was going and actually try to cut it off. Some dogs were running so fast, when the took a turn, would do it too fast, fall, and roll, get back up and go after it.

We had 3 collies run. Monique and Bren, Trudi and Sophia, and me and Cat. Sophia was amazing. She almost made it, but when the lure took a corner, she didn't see it, and got focused on the line. It was funny to watch. I didn't get to see Monique's run, I was back in line and couldn't see her. The dog before me and Cat took about 10 minutes to catch after his run. So all the drive I had built up had gone :( Then when we went in, she tripped over the line and that freaked her out. We took a minute to regroup, I tried to pump her up again and we started. She did what I thought she would. She bolted out after the lure for about 20 feet, turned and barked at me. I ran out telling her to get it....again she would go out a bit and bark for me. I guess she thought it would be more fun if we did it together, and maybe it would have been! I will try this again, I think she could get the hang of it, and it was fun for both of us! :)

Happy Training~

Worst Day Ever!

2011-10-30T14:52:00.000-07:00

For the past few days, my human has woke me up while it was still very dark and made me get into the collie transport. Taken me to a conformation show. It was a show that was outside in the dirt. It was very dirty and freezing cold. I was shivering in my den, there were some rough collies that were making fun of me, because they have long hair to keep them warm, I just snuggled down in my blanket.

When my human took me for a walk, I was sniffing and checking things out. A lot of dogs had went potty where I was, and I had to make sure everything was in order. I had my nose down in a pile of leaves, having a really good sniff, when out of nowhere the wind started blowing hard and something slammed into the fence...I freaked out. I screamed and took off like lightening....too bad I was on the leash, I almost cut my head off! I ran back to my human as fast as I could....danger is everywhere and I know where I am safe, and it is with her. She was laughing so hard, she kept telling me I was so big and brave, and why was I SO afraid of a plastic bag? Really?? That's what it was? I thought it was a monster!

Then later, I was in the ring, with my Katie human. We did the down and back the Queen in the ring came towards me to touch me...a plastic bag came floating in to the ring...right behind me!! I was very scared, but I thought maybe this was a test from my humans, and though I was very nervous, I stayed still. The Ring Queen told me I was very brave. What's that....my human outside the ring, laughing at me. Grrrrrrrr!

To end a horrible day, the humans told me that I was too dirty to sleep in MY sleeping cavern with them. That is until I got a B-A-T-H!! Flash told me when I hear that, I need to run. The clever humans caught me, it was a very, very cold bath...but now I have to go. My humans are calling me to the cavern, It will be warm and cuddly in there. Gotta run!

Cat~

Training

2011-10-21T10:11:00.000-07:00

Well, I am really missing Leslye. She is recovering from surgery, she will be out of commission for a month or two. Poor girl! I know she is miserable right now.

Training has been an adjustment for me. While I do train on my own, I also train a lot with her. This is taking some getting used to. I had Marty help me with some resistance heeling and jumping drills, he actually seemed to enjoy it. It is going to be several weeks before I can get up to Curt's again too. So, I am doing my own thing right now.

Playing with entering Cat and Flash in Grad Novice. Mainly to keep me in the ring. Still toying with Flash and utility. Have Cat entered in some conformation shows, I hope I can get her finished by the end of this year or early next. Where are the majors?? We will keep on training hard for open and utility. She will hopefully be out of commission in the early summer...PUPPY TIME! That is if I don't chicken out :)

Happy Training

Mandalay's Chillin On The Beach BN, CD

2011-10-16T13:06:00.000-07:00

A VERY proud Catalina showing off her new title medallion! Saturday we scored a 195 1/2, and today a 193 at the Cocker Spaniel Obedience trials. Not too shabby for a green dog, and a green handler! I was very proud of my little Cat this weekend.

Now onto continuing training for open and utility!! Many thanks to Curt and Leslye for all the help they give me!! Couldn't have gotten here without ya!!

Weekend

2011-10-09T09:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we went to a dog park. It was an amazing day. I got to run and explore all around. There were lots of trees, I think I "marked" EVERY one of them. We played hide and seek with the humans. They are stupid and slow, when will they learn that they can never fool us. The male even climbed up in a tree! (that one took me a while to find). Speaking of trees, other than a place to pee, what are they good for? They don't move, or bark. They shed and drop their coats, they don't really make much noise. Flirt likes to bark at them, she thinks they might get us. Maybe I should keep an eye on them.

Today, is the worst day ever. It started out nice enough. But I saw the female acting suspiciously. She said B-A-T-H. I ran right away to my secret hideout behind the couch. Cat and Flirt went outside with her...idiots! I stayed right were I was, not making a sound. They were barking and telling me they were playing with the humans...then I hear my favorite 2 words CHEESE BALLS! I decided that maybe I was wrong, and I should go outside. I was grabbed from behind!! The human outsmarted me, though it was wrong for her to say Cheese Balls.

First went the trimming and brushing, then the grinder. It is a loud monster she holds in her hands and it eats my beautiful claws! One day I am going to find its secret lair and chew it up!! Worst of all is the butt-squeezing! Why won't she believe that my anal glands are not her concern. The water was so cold and wet, I just hate it! Then they took the loud wind machine and dried me off.

I know that I am not supposed to be ON the couch, but right now I am on the couch curled up toasty warm in my humans blanket. I can hear Cat crying that they are squeezing her butt. I don't care. I will hear the humans coming and will get off the couch when they do.

Beware of the B-A-T-H and the butt-squeezers!!

Flash~

Here We Go Again

2011-10-02T08:34:00.000-07:00

I am trying to keep my cool. Cat took off on me in the ring today. It is the first time in a long time she has done that. I nailed her, put her on the long line and she was fine. I JUST sent in my entry for 2 shows...and now have to try and deal with this. Frustrating!!

No worries, I have a plan! We will be working hard...HOPEFULLY it will all work out!

Glad I am NOT Cat!!

2011-09-30T06:03:00.000-07:00

I have finally had a chance to take over the compawter. There are some suspicious things going on right now. My female human is giving all the indications of B-A-T-H time. I have managed to stay out of her sight.

Poor Cat, she is so trusting...she went right to her when she squatted down and started talking all sweetness to her. Now she thinks she is so special, she is getting brushed...don't we all enjoy a good brushing? But then will come trimming, ok I don't really mind that. Usually that is followed by the horrible machine that eats toenails! I HATE THAT! The worse thing is coming....the butt squeezing. Cat WILL cry. The human always says it is good for us...how can that be possible!! My anal glands are just fine THANK YOU! Then the actual B-A-T-H comes ewwww yucky water, HELLO I am a collie not a water dog...I hate the water! This is always followed by the loud wind blower, she says we have to be dry before we can re-enter our home.

While she is distracted by Cat, I think I will stay here behind the couch for a while. Maybe she will forget I am here, I will be in stealth mode...talk to you soon!

Flash~

Other Brother from another mother

2011-09-28T17:30:00.000-07:00

Still saying that has not gotten old for me! We FINALLY met Lee and his lovely wife Donna. It is truly amazing that Marty and Lee are so much alike. Mannerisms, they way they talk. They even both wore orange shirts! When Lee busted out with..."SHAZAM" I almost died!! Marty says that all the time.

I am so glad that their daughter Sharla (who I am still waiting to meet!!) kept with it and stalked us down. I only wish that we had found each other sooner. I think we are going to really enjoy getting to know them. They already feel like family to me!!

Progress

2011-09-15T13:33:00.000-07:00

I am so excited! Cat and I have been working on the dumbbell for a few weeks. She gets better with it everyday. I have noticed that if I just pull it out, and set it down she will pick it up and bring it to me. I wanted to see where we are, so I had her hold it in her mouth, called her for a recall and over the high jump a few times. She did it perfectly. So I set her up, and threw it over the high, sent her. She went over, grabbed it and was back in a perfect front it about 2 seconds! If she had been on dirt...man it would have been flying! What an amazing partner I have :)

Headed to Curt's this weekend. I am very excited. I always learn so much.

Happy Training!

Finally!

2011-09-01T08:50:00.000-07:00

Well, my computer is still dead, but Marty got me an iPad 2!!! I really don't know how to do much with it yet, but I'm working on it.

I've been under the weather for the past week, but am feeling a little better today. No training this week, I have been too ill. The pups miss it though. If I am better tomorrow I will be back at it.

Collie Days

2011-08-24T18:29:00.000-07:00

I have had an interesting training day! I am working with a new very positive training thingy with Cat for the dumbbell. So we were working it. Flash was kinda laying there, just watching. I put the db across the room from Cat, told her get it, she sat, downed, gave me her paw, did a spin...trying to work out what I wanted from her. Flash figured that since he knew there was food involved, he'd just get the db. Cat then turns around to take it from him, he wouldn't let it go. So she grabbed onto the end and held it. They both came in and sat! So, know you know how many collies it takes to retrieve a db!!

Then this evening, we were putting away some groceries, Marty knocked Cat's db off the counter, and it fell into the dining room. I was on the opposite side of the kitchen, in the pantry. When I turned around, there my my little "kitty" sitting and proudly holding the db! She had gone around into the dining room and got it all on her own!! She got a million cookies and a very happy momma!!

Weekend

2011-08-24T06:55:00.000-07:00

Well we went down and wrapped poles, hung signs and helped get the show site together. There were actually a lot more people helping this time, things went pretty smooth and quick. I got my grooming space...marked my territory! HAHA So, now just to pack up all the other crap I have to take for grooming and getting Cat ready for the breed ring.

Of course, it is not a major...every point counts though, right? She is also about 2 1/2 months out from her last cycle, so she is BALD! She is SO naked!! So, I am not sure how we will do, at least she is pretty and shows nicely, so we still might have a chance.

Katie has Flirt entered in open...only needs 2 legs, so she may get her title this weekend!! Cross your fingers, they have worked very hard!

See ya at the shows!

Old Dog-New Tricks

2011-08-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

I have not worked Flash too much since he got his CDX. He has been beside himself. I have been only taking Catalina when I go train, and the boy misses it. He torments me at home and is pissed when I leave him. So I have decided to bring him back out and work on his scent articles, signals, and the cursed jumps. The main reason I pulled him after the CDX was the fact he totally HATES the jumps. Though I know I can work him through it, it will be another battle. I just haven't been up for it. Because he seems so eager to get back out there, I decided to go ahead and try.

We will take it a step at a time, see where we end up. I WOULD like to get a UD on him....we'll see what my big, blue puppy has in store for me! I will just take it a day at a time, I did promise him if he got the open title, he could just be a couch potato, and I KNOW I will have issues with the jumps. Time and patience will tell!

Back to Basics

2011-08-22T06:43:00.000-07:00

Went this past weekend for a private lesson. As always was totally amazing! In my quest to get in the ring, I think I have moved too fast for Cat and now I have to go back and work on a few things. I need to remember to take a step at a time and sometimes in dog training, backing up can be a good thing in the end!

Cat is entered in breed this weekend. Of course, 2 days after I sent in the entry, she totally blew ALL her coat! She is a really "smooth" collie right now! No worries, at least she is pretty :) She and Katie have not been in the ring in a while, so I am primarily interested in the team work I see, not if we win (though winning is nice!)

This will be the first time Katie has shown in breed and obedience in the same day, I hope her stress level is ok. She and Flirt are entered in Open. They already have a leg...so they could title this weekend! Cross your fingers for them :)

Long time no blog....

2011-08-16T15:06:00.000-07:00

It is with a heavy heart that i tell you my laptop died. I have been very sad. Even my IT guy Marty could not bring it back to life. He will however, be able to save my data! So now I have to decide the great question....Mac or a windows based computer. Decisions, decisions!

Being the sweet hubby that he is, Marty just ordered me a ipad 2. I am SO excited! At least I will be able to get back on the internet again!! I am having some serious facebook withdrawls!!

So for now, my time on the internet is limited. Hope to be back to normal in a couple weeks!

TTFN!!

Weekend

2011-08-01T10:18:00.000-07:00

We did not qualify this weekend. I was disappointed, but learned something and have adjusted my training. Cat is showing me she is stressed in the ring. While I don't feel it was a total disconnect, she is definitely pushing the boundary.

It is truly amazing to watch her think things out. She was trying to see how far she could push me to get out of our "circle". I watched her circle me, trying to work things out in her pea brain...she made the right choice, and came back into the circle..what a good girl!

I have adjusted my training, working on attention, and more heeling with distractions. Heeling takes miles, and I need to put some more on!

She was rock solid on her sit & down stays. She was not nervous and was very confident. Her stand for exam was amazingly perfect. She never moved a muscle!

It's not all about qualifing. I got some wonderful information on where my training has been lacking, where Cat is unsure and where I can do better for my partner. We will get it together and when we do, it will be amazing.

4 Paws Obedience Trial

2011-07-20T09:12:00.000-07:00

We are getting ready for this weekend. Catalina is doing wonderfully! I am feeling pretty good about this weekend and our debut in Novice. Famous last words! haha
Katie and Flirt are entered in Open A. They are doing awesome in training as well.
High hopes for "Team Surfside" this weekend! Cross your fingers and paws for us!!

Motivation

2011-07-20T05:54:00.000-07:00

While watching some people training, I think most of them just don't get it! Motivation is critical to training. I believe that you need to understand how dogs learn, to be an effective trainer especially if you are competing.

Example-the dog does a crooked sit on the halt. What do you do? 1-give a treat, because he sits 2-give a second command. Neither!! 1- Treating for not exactly what you want, you are teaching the dog to be wrong! 2-scolding can be more damaging to motivation than treating...especially if the dog is trying to be correct..he sat didn't he? I would say, start over and SHOW him what you want. Praise him for trying, but you just didn't quite have it...come on let's try again!

People..PLAY more with the dog! Keep things happy. Obviously, there will come a time when the dog totally understands and there needs to be a correction, but not so much when training and trying to motivate!

Happy Training!

Stay...pleeaasse

2011-07-12T11:01:00.000-07:00

Catalina has really made great progress in the past few weeks. Our heeling feels so wonderful now. Putting in the miles has really helped. Her missing the sits on halts seems to be much better. She sits quickly and in position now. The only thing that troubles me right now is our sit stays.

We have already started open training. She has a beautiful drop, LOVES to jump. Dumbbell work is getting there as well. Seems like something clicked on her little pea brain in the past few days.

We have a plan to work on the stays, Let's see...I have about a week and a half before the show. Let's see if I can get her more steady on those stupid stays!

Dad's Life

2011-07-08T04:40:00.000-07:00

http://youtu.be/DOKuSQIJlog

This is such a cute video...thought I'd share!

Training Snob?

2011-07-06T11:01:00.000-07:00

OK...I have decided that I want to get to the National Invitationals, granted I know I won't win it...but I want the invite! So I have a plan, and am very dedicated, determined and driven to get where I want to be with Cat. Training EVERY day, developing a good foundation for us, with a goal in mind.
So, I DO understand that everyone is competing from all kinds of places...some just want titles, some just want the legs, no cares about the scores. Yet others I just don't get. I see them train once every few months, if that. Then they don't want to hurt the dogs feelings by correcting them...I can tell you my feelings are very hurt when I pay $50.00 to enter a trial, and don't qualify!

I prefer to train alone or with my training partner (who has the same goals and is just as driven as I am). I am all about my relationship with my dog. In fact, that means more to me than any title. The title is a by product of the bond and relationship with the dog. I don't mind sharing and training with others occasionally, but for the most part, I want to do it on my own. To be honest, I am in and out of the building in about an hour. I hate to just sit and watch, especially when I have stuff to work on. Not that I mind it sometimes, but don't forget....I hate people. :) So if that makes me a snob...cool.

Happy Training!
From the training snob~

Heeling

2011-06-29T04:14:00.000-07:00

I have been working with Cat intensively regarding her attention, staying with me, ignoring everything except me. There is "danger" everywhere, only safe place is by my side! Yesterday she passed my heeling hell test! She is such an AWESOME girl.

We went to this little park where we like to work. It happens to run right next to some railroad tracks. Yesterday there was a kid at the park, maybe 8-10 years old who was so enthralled in my training that he followed us around.

So Catalina heeled with a huge train going by, blowing his horn, tracks banging and clacking, and a little boy RIGHT on her butt the whole time we were heeling. She stayed in position, did not miss a single sit, and had her head up the whole time. Now, I don't think the train really bothered her, but she was nervous about the kid, but she knew she was safe as long as she was with me. Such a good girl!

I love this pup!! I really need to thank Jaye again for allowing me to have this amazing dog.

Happy Training !

Officer Cat--Fun Police

2011-06-25T11:50:00.000-07:00

My humans have started calling me Officer Cat. They say I am anti-fun. I don't get it. The young human girl, Kay-T was in the sleeping cavern, jumping up and down on my bed. I had to put an immediate stop to that! She started squeeling and yelling, I just growled and attacked her. She should known better.

Then my human male, was throwing the ball in the park yard for Flash. I do not like him to do this. All balls belong to ME! Now, I do not retrieve them, but I surely do not want anyone touching them! So, I run with Flash, soon as he picks it up, I take it from him. Of course I spit it right out, it is gross! But he is SO not gonna pick it back up.

Then there is Flirt. She takes MY toys to MY human. She tries to get her to play tug. Again, not having it! I will take the toy and dare Flirt to pick it up. So, I guess I am a "fun-police officer" I squelch any attempts for the other dogs to take attention from me. HELLO they are MINE!

I really don't understand why the humans keep putting me out. I can still hear them playing!! Somebody is gonna pay!

Cat~

Shows

2011-06-23T05:20:00.000-07:00

WOW! Had an awesome work out with Cat last night. She was near to perfect. I think right now the only thing I am a bit worried about is our sit stays. We are working on building more confidence, so hopefully this will resolve before the show.

We found a new place to train...with AIR CONDITIONING!! Whew!! What a relief. Although, I will train whether it is hot, cold, rain, snow, sleet, hail. Well, maybe not actually in the rain and hail, but you know what I mean!

Can't wait for the show! I am excited :)

Whew!

2011-06-20T17:33:00.000-07:00

Went to Curt's Saturday. He is such an amazing dog trainer. As always, he gave me tons of homework and things to think about. Now that I have decompressed, and have my notes organized I have my plan of work for Cat. I am so excited!

We are going to have a lot to get done before the next trip to see him, can't wait to get back up there! Now, if I can train without melting.....it SO HOT!

Happy, hot and sweaty training!!

I Hate People

2011-06-20T17:30:00.000-07:00

I am on a rant... some one just called to tell me about a phone call they were just on in which their "friend" was bad mouthing a good friend of mine. I hate that people when they are jealous or just plain stupid assholes have nothing better to do than make up shit about other people. She has never spoken to nor does she even know this person! So judgemental, and has no idea what the hell she is talking about. Lucky for her she didn't unload her crap on me! Don't worry...I am waiting. Feel sorry for her it she does.
One thing is for sure...I will defend my friends!!

Cat-astrophe!!

2011-06-08T06:11:00.000-07:00

Leslye and I went to the match that the Chattanooga Obedience Club put on this past Saturday. What a delightful group of people. They were all SO nice and friendly. The facility has AIRCONDITIONING!! and it is a lovely facility with a large pond behind it with a big grassy area for the dogs. We had a wonderful day.

Leslye and I both felt that we were exactly where we thought we were in our training. I have to work on the stays! Catalina is in boot camp for stays and also another issue popped up. In my attempt to make this match as real to her as I could, our first run was awesome. She did very well. I had time to warm her up and put her back in the crate, as well as our other pre-show routine. I made a major mistake by not putting her back in the crate to wait for the second run. It is a mistake I will not make again, and I learned from it. That's what the matchs are for!

I was just goofing off, feeding her some carrots that I was munching on outside the ring, and they called us back in sooner than I thought. She did really well, until the off leash heel. She totally left the ring, made a bee line for the carrots, had a quick snack before I could catch her. So I took her back in and finished the run.

I should have excused myself immediately and taken her outside for a "discussion". I also need to stay in trainer mode, and be thinking about how to fix an issue when it rears up. I am getting there! After talking to my coach, devised a plan, and am working on it. I am hopeful this will not happen again. Leaving the ring is a bad thing!! She has now decided that when she leaves my side, there is danger everywhere and it is much safer to stay close to me!

Problem is that I have a VERY smart dog. It only takes one time to correct her, and she is on to my evil ways :) She won't fall for the same thing twice, which makes me have to think more....I have a headache!! She is such an amazing dog.

Happy Training!

What I am shooting for!!

2011-05-30T14:19:00.000-07:00

Here is a video of Curt and Key from the 2009 NOI.
http://youtu.be/wl9VNezgNJk

Pretty impressive, huh!! I will be there one day. For those of you that don't watch obedience or understand what I do with the dogs (Dawn) hahaha that should help you see the level of precision I am shooting for.

Training

2011-05-29T18:28:00.000-07:00

Well things are going great! Cat and I seem to have FINALLY got out heeling together, and we feel like a team. It was hard for me, I move faster with Flash and have had to slow it down a bit with her, but it is coming together.

We did have some issues with the stand. I thought it was a bit sloppy, but I think we have resolved that issue. Also, working on building drive on the recall. I think I was moving ahead too fast for her, and have been doing drops...with slowed down my recalls, but thats how it goes!

I REALLY wish Mindy would do her heeling class on Friday so I could attend...oh well, I guess the world does not revolve around me! Whateva!! I will be headed to Curt's in a couple weeks. Can't wait!!

LKC/AOC Drill Team

2011-05-20T16:59:00.000-07:00

Here it is...the long awaited video of our Pawfest 2011 performance. I think it was our best yet. Flash even did all his signals, even the drop! (He hates doing drops in the grass) but he did it! We so rocked it.
Enjoy~

Keep On Keeping On

2011-05-20T16:16:00.000-07:00

Back home from yet ANOTHER trip to Florida. I have been having many issues to deal with, and somethings that have popped up have been so bad, they have really thrown me for a loop! Enough about that...

Back at training!

Cat is doing so wonderfully. I have seen a great improvement over the past weeks. Proof is in the pudding..I go back to Curt's in a few weeks..YIKES!!!

New Favorite Game

2011-05-13T17:01:00.000-07:00

Have you ever played the stair game? It is SO much fun! You can play it going up or down the stairs...down is better! The way you win, is get there first. You can play it with other collies, but is more fun with the humans.

Bear in mind the humans do not like it. They are slow and easily tripped up. You must be fast and just shove your way between their legs. Most of the humans don't like to play with us on the stairs, the ones that aren't actually playing with us laugh and laugh. The one at the bottom of the stairs on his butt, with a big boom is not so amused!

Try it sometime...it's FUN!

Cat~

Free At Last!

2011-05-10T09:49:00.000-07:00

I have had a rough weekend. First, my human took me outside. I thought we were gonna play! She did my nails, then trimmed me up. I KNEW what was coming.....a BATH! I like swimming in the lake, but not this!

I was beautiful once I lived through it all. Now she told me since I am no longer in heat (I still don't get that...I was NOT hot!) I could have free reign in the house! I can even go back to sleeping with her in the sleeping den!! I was SO happy!!

Flash still keeps bugging me, I had to tell him to back off a couple times, but he is cool now. I can't wait to get back to work with my female human!!
Cat~

A training we go....

2011-04-29T10:37:00.000-07:00

Had a great training session with Cat yesterday! We worked on the figure 8, and stand for exam. Of course, we do our sit drills. We even did a few drop on recalls. She is so freakin adorable!! She drops, and in the down her tail is just a waggin.....I hope I get extra points for that!!

Flash and I will be at the "For The Love of Dogs" event in Auburn tomorrow. Pray the weather is nice. The drill team will be out there..come have some fun!!

Training?

2011-04-26T09:47:00.000-07:00

Dang it! I can't take Cat to the building, she is in season and there are stupid rules! I have taken her to the other building where we sometimes train, but it is further away and I almost passed out when I filled my tank up the other day, so I am not driving over there everyday! So, we have been working in the yard and the street in my cul-de-sac. Of course for the past few days it has rained!! I will be SO happy when I can get her back out! I want her ready for the summer, we HAVE to practice and fine tune!!

Aside from that my training partner has been MIA! What the hell?? I know she is supposedly working at home. She is entered sooner than me, she better be practicing!! So, I have made another appointment with Curt, I have several things to talk to him about. I was SO bummed about not taking Cat last time :(.

My plan is as follows...I want her CD and CH by the end of this year, or early part of next year. She will be trained through open. Then, this time next year, I will breed her. She will have a nice little maternity leave, then back at it with a CDX by the end of next year. Sounds good, huh? Now, I need to get off my lazy ass, let the rain stop, her come out of season and back at it big time!!

Happy Training!

Ice Cubes

2011-04-24T16:13:00.000-07:00

Cold, crunchy, slippery bits of deliciousness! They are my favorite snacks. If I hear the humans near the cold box, I run upstairs. I stare at the magic box that spits them out, the humans will always give me one. I gobble mine and watch if one of the other collies drops some as they crunch it up.

Last summer they had a lot of humans in our backyard, there was lots of food and many to beg from. We collies were in heaven! We surveyed the crowd, and found the weak humans that would slip us a bit of food if we sat and stared long enough at them. While this was great...there was something better! I found a HUGE pail that had their drinks in it...and there was ICE! Piles and piles of it. I ate it, and then I put my feet in it. My human barked at me, so I ran...with a mouthful of ice!

I hope this happens again. That was a good day!

Flash~

Heat?

2011-04-24T14:19:00.000-07:00

I am so depressed. The humans have told me I am in lock down for the next few weeks. They keep saying that I am in heat. I am NOT hot, what are they talking about. I have been spending a lot of time in my crate in the cavern downstairs. They do let me come out and be free in the cavern, but I have to wear these stupid things they call crabby pants. I am so embarrassed. Flash laughs at me, and Flirt thinks it hysterical. I am only allowed to play with Flirt outside. Flash just looks out the window and cries. Poor boy, we play together all the time, but right now the humans will not allow it.

I am not allowed to go upstairs to the sleeping chamber with my human. She is MY human and I sleep with her every night. I know that Flash is up there cuddling with MY human! This is not right, who will protect her if I am not there...Flash??? HAHA doubt it!!

I hope this ends soon...I am so depressed and lonely in this dark, dank dungeon.
Cat~

Southeastern Railway Museum

2011-04-23T12:08:00.000-07:00

Spent the day with the kids. Ethan loved seeing the trains and riding on them.

Crabby Cat

2011-04-19T09:38:00.000-07:00

Catalina is in season. That throws a real wrench in things for me. I wasn't able to take her to Curt's, took Flash instead. Can't go to the building, there are rules against that. I am not really sure about the logic of this, as there are bitches in season at a show! Anyway, rules are rules. So I am stuck working at home for the next few weeks.

She has developed a "cat-it-tude" and is a bit...well, crabby. I love her sassy attitude!! The pants just serve as a warning to all! LOL

Dog Events

2011-04-15T05:45:00.000-07:00

I have gained control of the com pawter! I hear through the barking tree that us Collies have a bunch of fun stuff coming up. We all get our chance to show off.
Catalina is going to a Beauty Paegent called Kon Firm Nation. I hope she does well. She does look pretty. I hope the other Collies think so too. I did this a long time ago, I think it is kinda stupid and boring....but there are LOTS of cookies involved, so I would run with a human in a circle and stand there. I hope she does good.
Catalina also had some o bead e ance coming up...training=cookies...she better be careful or she will get fat!
With the warmer weather, we are spending more time outside on the viewing platform. We are watch dogs, we watch everything and will sound the alert if needed!
I am on the drill team now that I am done with my CDX. Our first performance will be at the For Love of Dogs event the end of the month. Also we have pawfest coming too.

Flash~

Back to Work

2011-04-12T17:57:00.000-07:00

I had a bad weekend. Had to go back to Florida to help take care of my Grandmother. It is really heartbreaking for me to see her so helpless and in the condition she is in. I am having a really rough time with it. Decided that tonight I was going to get back to work with Catalina. Working the dogs always makes me feel better! She is such a riot!

Anyway, we totally rocked it! She was nearly perfect. She broke her down stay! What the hell?! My collies are so freakin lazy the down is like their favorite thing! I couldn't believe it. So, we had a little "discussion" and she didn't get back up!

Off to Curt's this weekend. I can't wait! Though my head will explode with all he throws at me I SO love it!

Happy Training!!

I'm Back

2011-04-05T17:27:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I have had a chance to get on the compawter. I had such an awful day I had to tell someone. My human thinks she is so clever...I SEE what she is doing. She is trying to be sneaky, but I am smarter than she thinks. She set out all her instruments of torture. Then gets the ball to "play" with me. I know what she is up to. Then she brought out the cheese balls. She knows that they have magical powers and I can not resist them.

She started out by trimming my paws. That I do not mind so much...then comes the grinder. I HATE it. It makes too much noise, and though it doesn't really hurt, I do not like the way it feels. I swear she is trying to kill me.

Ahhhhhh, cheese balls make it all better!!

Flash~

Back to Work

2011-04-02T04:35:00.000-07:00

Training has been going great. After last weekend, and Cat telling me that I apparently have never taught her to sit on halts (grrr). Guess what we have been doing all week! It's going great. Curt told me at our last lesson to blur the line between play and work....it is very blurry! haha We ARE having a blast though! Even when she isn't quite perfect....she has her sassy pants on and cracks me up!!

I guess I am FINALLY getting used to working her instead of Flash. I took Flash out to do some heeling, and kept saying "Cat heel" he didn't seem to mind though :)

Happy Training!!

Mandalay's Chillin on the Beach BN

2011-03-27T16:22:00.000-07:00

YAY for me and Cat! We got a 192 1/2 ++ and fourth place yesterday winning a run-off. Today Cat decided not to sit on ANY excersie so we got hit pretty hard. 188 1/2 , not too bad though, and we KNOW what to work on now. What an awesome, naughty wonderful girl.

Katie and Flirt got there Grad Novice title. With a second place. All in all it was a great weekend!!

Simpsonville

2011-03-24T09:55:00.000-07:00

We are very excited to be headed out for a road trip this weekend. Cat is looking better every day, I am excited to get her in the ring, and hoping to get her first obedience title. Katie and Flirt are entered too. They just need one more leg for their Grad Novice title, and she is giving Open A a try as well! Keep your fingers crossed for them!
Leslye and Jet will be entered in Beginner Novice as well as a try in Novice B....they have been looking great in practice too. Michelle has both her pups entered in Rally. AOC has the 2 teams entered in team obedience competition.
So, it's basically a road trip, girls and dogs only kinda weekend!! I hope we don't get into too much trouble! ;0)

Simpsonville Shows

2011-03-21T10:22:00.000-07:00

We are gearing up for the show this weekend. Unless Cat leaves the ring, or does something else unexpected and crazy, I expect to get our first obedience title this weekend, first of many I hope! BN-Beginner Novice.
Training is going well. Heeling is better, still not quite where I want it, but it is improving. I have been taking her to the park to practice heeling, she is doing AWESOME with all the distractions, kids, bikes, skates, etc. I am still trying to teach her where her butt is...she kinda knows, but we are still working on that.
This weekend AOC has 2 teams entered in the team obedience event...should be interesting to watch. We are keeping our fingers crossed for both teams!
So, once we get through this weekend, I will be looking for some conformation shows for her. Training for novice and open. I HOPE to be ready for the novice ring this summer!

Happy Training!!

Cat Training

2011-03-15T09:42:00.000-07:00

I have been working hard to find the time to work Cat. With the frequent trips to Florida to help with my ailing family, it has been very hard. I train EVERY day when I am home, but with close work. Finishes, fronts, working on finding her butt, etc. Heeling is another matter.

Heeling is totally my favorite exercise. I love to watch teams that move as one, and hope to be there one day with her! I need more miles on her. We start out a little choppy, but in the end of the session it is great!

She sure has what we have started calling cat-it-tude. If she isn't paying attention, and takes her eyes off me she bumps into me. If she does that more than a couple times, she will jump up as we are heeling, do a couple "snappers" right in my face, then drop down back into heel position and continue on as if nothing happened. It is hysterical!

Right now, because of the health issues of my Grandmother, I am not sure if we will be able to go to Simpsonville. We are entered...just depends if I need to shoot down to Florida. In the meantime, I am training every second I can get. I want to see an improvement in our heeling. So cross your fingers that we can make it. It is going to be a FUN weekend. AOC has 2 obedience teams competing, as well as, the fact all my friends will be there! Katie has Flirt entered in Grad Novice and Open A also.

Awful Weekend

2011-03-09T04:30:00.000-08:00

We had to go to Florida this weekend. Two family members in the hospital with serious issues. Plus dealing with family in general is SUCH a great time. Everyone has there own opinion about what needs to be done. These cousins are much older than me, and I think part of the problem is they think I am 10 still and they feel compelled to order me around and tell me what I need to do. Don't worry...I am TRYING very hard to be good. Keeping my mouth shut and saying ok...then of course doing what I want to do, rather than getting into an arguement. They are all stressed out, as am I.

So, I am going to try and get back to Cat tonight. I think the training will do ME good. Keep my mind off things for a little while, and I will turn my phone OFF!

Training

2011-03-02T04:47:00.000-08:00

We got lots of home work from Curt. Working hard everyday. Cat is SO amazing. She learns so fast and is so eager to work. I have found that we can work intensely for about 30 minutes, then we are done. This seems to work well for her. If I go much past that her "switch" turns off for a while, and I don't want that.

This week we are working on figure 8's (more me than her) transitions, play and building up for delayed gratification with her cookie jackpot. My heeling with her is getting better, but not where I want it. I am still walking on "Flash" time. I need to slow down. So at least I know where to work!

We also learned a few new training tips regarding the dumbbell. It is SO cool. I had a dilemma, I am not opposed to the forced retrieve, however, since I am showing her in conformation as well, I really don't want to do the ear pinch right now. So, Curt showed me a few things to do. Of course, they are working awesome. I am very lucky to have found someone that is such an amazing trainer as him to work with me!

Happy Training!!

Training

2011-02-23T06:17:00.000-08:00

Training for Catalina is going great! She is SO much fun. I am headed up to Curt's Friday for a lesson. Last weekend in Greenville, he spent some time with me, gave me some homework...so we have been practicing. The main problem I think I may have with her at some point is that she likes the cookies! We have been practicing to kinda delay the cookie and so far so good!

Greenville

2011-02-18T16:59:00.000-08:00

Cat and I went to Greenville today. We entered the Beginner Novice class. I have never actually watched this class and decided to do it as a way to see where I am with Catalina and actually get her in the ring myself.

She was so awesome. We ended up with a really nice run, we placed third the first time in the ring. I ended up learning alot!

I am still trying to work out my pace with her, but think I am getting close. She is such an amazing girl!

Amazing Weekend

2011-02-16T05:56:00.000-08:00

Wow! I had such a wonderful time at Curt's seminar. I have never been to an obedience seminar. To be honest the only reason I even went was he was the one doing it.

I am not a seminar whore, and don't like to pay serious money to hear any one's opinion on anything! There are people that I see go to every seminar, anyone puts on. The results I see are confused dogs. terrible handling and no real help for the issues they think they have. They are looking for some kind of magic bullet to make everything wonderful. In reality, they just need to learn to read their dog, and focus more on the relationship to develop a good working relationship with the dog.

I have found that once I stopped listening to every one's opinion on what I should or shouldn't be doing, found a great mentor and friend to help me over the tough spots and guide me through training and helped me realize that it isn't the titles that matter, it is the relationship of the handler to the dog that REALLY matters, things have gotten better.

Training continues. Flash for utility (YIKES) Catalina for everything! So you people that like to give unwanted and ignored advice...bring it. I will continue to ignore you and keep on training with people that know what they are doing.

I will not get sidetracked by your sometimes very critical and wrong and well let's be honest stupid advice. Check yourself. Let me see you get a qualifying run ONCE! As a warning, you may want to watch it. I am about sick of it and may explode on you. I am trying very hard to take the high road, keep a smile on my face and suck it up. Being sweet and gracious is not something that comes easy for me. You have been warned.

Weekend

2011-02-10T13:49:00.000-08:00

Packing up for a weekend obedience seminar with Curt this weekend. I got a working spot,taking Cat. I am SO excited, looking forward to this for months! So, of course, I had to hurt my knee Monday! Thank goodness I work for an orthopedic surgeon! I told him he had to have me fixed by the weekend. I went from being unable to walk to tolerable pain. Drugs and a brace have helped. Hopefully, by Saturday I will be almost good as new. Otherwise, I will watch sadly on the sidelines :(

ROAD TRIP!!

YEAH BABY!

2011-02-08T14:13:00.000-08:00

We had a great weekend! On Friday Flash and I were entered in Open A. He made me sweat it out though! On the Drop on Recall, I called him to come....he just sat there, looking around...looked outside the ring, looked back at the judge, then looked over at me and said..."oh crap...now I remember" he came on in with a beautiful drop! The HJ was beautiful! He was a very good boy! We ended up placing 3rd.

So how many collies have a Championship AND a CDX? Not sure, but I don't think many. We had placements on all 3 legs. Two 3rd places and one 1rst.

This has been a long time coming and lots of training, help, and support from my friends. Thanks to you all!! Without all of you, I would never have made it. :)

Here We Go Again!

2011-02-01T13:37:00.000-08:00

We went down to the Expo Center today for prep work on the building for the shows this weekend. We really didn't have many helpers today, but we dedicated few got it done. All the LKC stuff got where it needed to be, poles were wrapped and grooming and vendor spaces marked. Vendors will be moving in starting tomorrow.

More important that that...I got my grooming space saved! I even took my crates down. Of course, I got enough space for Dona too.

I am excited about this weekend. Flash and I had an awesome work out today. Keep you fingers crossed we can qualify this weekend. I just need 1 more leg to get that elusive CDX title!!! Then training for utility!!

YIKES

2011-01-30T16:11:00.000-08:00

So much to do...so little time. All the Surfside Collies will be entered this weekend. That makes for a crazy week! Katie has Flirt entered in Grad Novice. Flash and I are still striving for that evasive final Open leg, and Catalina is entered in conformation.

So, of course Cat started limping after running her a$$ off with Flirt. She has been on crate rest for 3 days, and is finally able to walk again. Oh, did I mention she is BLOWING coat as well?? Of course she is. So today was bath day, and I tried to pull as much as I could out. Good news is she can walk, and I can work with a REAL smooth collie.

Now, Flash has started limping, so he is now on crate rest. We have training drills for everyone this week, keep your fingers crossed that hopefully someone will be a good dog and win something this coming weekend!!

E has gone to the dogs!

2011-01-24T07:11:00.000-08:00

Ethan has decided that Flirt's crate is the neatest place to play. He goes in, zips it up and goes "night-night". He is so funny.

Open Leg #2

2011-01-24T05:28:00.000-08:00

Here is our run. Major improvement...he did not ever leave me in the ring. He gave great effort, heeling was a bit off, but we only missed a couple points. 192 1/2 and First Place..not too shabby!

WHOO HOO

2011-01-23T13:52:00.000-08:00

Flash and I had a great run. I think things finally clicked in his little pea brain! He was SO good today. We got a 192 1/2 and First Place in Open A. Leg #2 !! One down and one more to go!!

Here we go again!!

2011-01-22T13:04:00.000-08:00

Flash had a very poopy attitude this morning. Even at home before we left. Once I got him to the show site, I took him out and we played. Then in the crate, then outside for a couple minutes of heeling warm up and a couple drops. To my surprise, he dropped in the grass. He usually hates the feel of the grass, but he was a good boy.

I had a few disconnects due to a bit of stress he was showing. He did his drop! Again, he went around the HJ on the return. Broad jump was the best ever. So, all in all I was pleased. I think the HJ is always going to be an issues for him.

I gave my coach a call. He gave me some drills to do. We worked for about 15-20 minutes this afternoon, it was hard and intense. No playing around. He was stressed, I was too...but I held it together, was very firm and hard, but kept on with it. Keeping a smile on my face, during the corrections, and having a BIG PARTY when he was right. He worked very hard and I felt like we made a step forward...THANKS COACH!!

What will he do tomorrow? He damn well return over that jump! I don't care if he doesn't do anything else.

Jump Time

2011-01-21T06:51:00.000-08:00

With Flash entered this weekend, I have decided to mix it up a little and see what happens. We will be doing a few jumping drills both on the HJ and Broad, throw in a couple of drops and that's all we are going to do today. I jumped him one night this week, and did a bit of heeling. That's it. We only worked for about 15 minutes each session.

I am also going to try to have him out of the crate more at the show. Not that he will be just hanging out, he will be working. Stays on his mat, come up sits, focus and attention. We will see if that works.

We are close to getting another evasive open leg, but more importantly than that, our connection is SO much better. That is more important to me than any title there is. The improvement in the relationship is truly amazing, we are a team!!

Will keep you posted for the weekend trials...good luck to those showing!
Happy Training!!

Hairy Scarey!!

2011-01-21T06:44:00.000-08:00

Those of you that know me, know that I am not a girlie-girl. I hate dresses, high heels and all that crap. I am a jeans and sneaker kinda girl. I do love my make-up and purses however! I don't go to the nail salon, I get my hair cut about once every 3 months or so. So, it should not come as surprise to hear that I am SICK of coloring my hair.

I have thought about it for a long time, but decided to go for it. When asked why I ever colored it in the first place..I started going grey when I was about 17....not cool. I also like to mix things up, so I have been red, auburn, brown, black, high lights, low lights etc. I am just tired of sitting in that chair!

After talking to several different hair color "specialists" and getting a different opinion from each one of them, decided to just let it go! I am about 3 months and 1 1/2 inches into it. It is a beautiful silvery black. While I think that it will be pretty when I get through it, I just hope that I can be able to stand the growing out phase!

The curls have helped cover it....but now I have a silvery cap! Will keep you posted on my progress or lack there of!

Weekend Results-Old Ghosts

2011-01-17T15:41:00.000-08:00

Well, it was a wonderful weekend! Saw some friends that I hadn't seen in a long time. It was great catching up! Maureen got her first CDX leg with Drago. They both needed that win!! We were all so happy for them.

Flash did such a great job. He did lots of head up heeling and had a good attitude. Transitions were awesome and even though he was a bit stressed, he never left my side. That alone is a major improvement. On Saturday, his drop was perfect! The best one he has ever done! He did not return over the HJ either day however. This is a ghost I suppose we will always battle. It's ok, I am feeling great. His stays were steady and he did well over all so I am very pleased with him.

On Sunday, he tripped during the figure 8, and never lost a beat. He is such a good boy! It was so awesome to have Curt there. He is such a tremendous trainer, coach and friend. He was there with support, ideas and assistance. I don't know what I'd do without his help. Well, I guess I do...I would have give up on Flash. So, here we go again. I have a battle plan...showing again this coming weekend. Keep your fingers and paws crossed for us...we are getting close!!

Happy Training!!

Pup-cicles

2011-01-14T14:02:00.000-08:00

So, here I am doing some prep work for dinner. The collies are under foot as always, they are on the ready in case I accidentally drop something. I keep hearing this weird noise. Keep looking around, don't see anything. Then I noticed that it is Flash. His teeth are chattering SO loud. When I really look at him, his whole body is shaking. I laid him down, to make sure everything is ok....then it dawns on me... he LOVES ice. He eats it all the time. He likes to eat snow too apparently.

Marty shoveled off the deck, and we had watched Flash really scraping what little snow and ice with his teeth that was left off the deck. He was THAT cold! Now he is all warmed up and wants to go back out. Guess what he does as soon as he hits the ground??? This dog is killing me!! ;)

Evil Plan

2011-01-13T17:27:00.000-08:00

After the issues Flash had a week ago, I decided to try something new. Instead of practing every day with some level on intensity right before a show, I decided to try an experiment. I have been totally ignoring him this week. We have done a few fronts and finishes and a few drops from time to time. But nothing serious. I haven't even played with him either.

So far I think my evil plan is working. He just stares at me and huffs. He keeps brining me things trying to get me to play, and I know he is bored out of his mind. He has been in this house for a whole boring week. Hopefully this will make a dog that is SO happy to be out of the house he will work for me. We'll see this weekend. muahh ha ha....or maybe he is just messing with my head it is gonna show me this weekend! Time will tell.....the saga continues.......

Snow!

2011-01-10T06:49:00.000-08:00

Flash and Cat had a great time romping in the snow. Cat buries herself face first. Flash actually chased her!

This dog is killing me.............

2011-01-09T15:19:00.000-08:00

So here I am feeling confident, relaxed and well connected to Flash. Have him entered in 3 shows over the next few weeks. Have been having awesome runs, great improvements and getting excited.

Back to the drawing board tonight. He started balking at the high jump again, almost shutting down on me, he got so stressed. I now have to rethink and out think him. I know that we made a different "picture" for him tonight, and that freaked him out. He needs to get over it. I have a plan though, need to run it by Curt and get his opinion, before I act on it.

It's gonna be a loooong week!!~

Cat-apult

2011-01-07T15:59:00.000-08:00

Decided to take Catalina to work with today. I have been working Flash so much, decided to give him the night off. Catalina is truly amazing!

We heeled, and yes I need many more miles to be where I want to be, she did wonderful. Her recalls are fast and straight. I have to tell her sit about half way, so she slows down and can stop without taking me out!! Curt showed me how to teach her to throw herself kinda past me on the finish, and that is coming along great as well. I have her jump into position for the stand for exam, it is SO cute!

Then we worked a little open. High jumps and drops. She flies over the high jump and seems to really love it. Her drops are fast and immediate. She is SO different than Flash. It is so cool!

In time, I think we will be a great team, I have an eager and willing partner in Catalina. This year will be the year of the "Cat"!

Tough Week

2011-01-07T05:56:00.000-08:00

I don't usually blog too much about really serious stuff, but I have had an emotionally rough week this past week. I am not usually a person that whines and shares all my issues, but this week has been hard.

A friend of mine's husband died. That in itself is horrible, but he committed suicide. She is handling things, getting through each day, but please keep her in your prayers. I have been so upset and even angry that it has actually suprised me. I can't imagine the horror and heartbreak that she is facing. I have actually been physically sick about it. Which makes me wonder how she can possibly be able to deal with this. I suppose that we deal with the things we are dealt as best as we can. I just keep praying that she will be ok.

I heard from another friend about some horrible things that she is dealing with, I can't even talk about it...that's how bad her situation is. Then yet another friend is facing some surgery this coming week. She has cancer and has been through chemo and now this second surgery. She is very scared, but trying to stay positve and hopeful.

Me, I am ok. Just alot of crap floating around in my head. I am in a funk...but doing MUCH better than I was earlier in the week. It takes a lot to push this stuff out of my head, give it up and move forward. No time to stay upset and depressed. It doesn't help anyone, and I need to stay strong to be able to help them as best I can.

SO.... here's to the weekend...GOOD friends, maybe an ice storm on Sunday and no work on Monday!! YAY!!

Training

2011-01-06T19:12:00.000-08:00

Back at it with Flash. We are working most everyday now. We will be showing next weekend. I am feeling good. Flash is looking good and I am hopeful to qualify. I have the added benefit of Curt being there. That really used to freak me out, but I actually think its a good thing now. He has been SO helpful and supportive, its a gonna be FUN! He is going to help me figure out what I need to be doing and how to get a pre-show routine down. I don't really have a set thing I do, so his help is wonderful.

Leslye and I have been working pretty hard with our dogs, and she and Jet are looking good too. We are really enjoying training together. We go in, help each other, go over the excercises we want to work on. We train about 20-30 minutes and get out of there. It seems to be working for us both.

I really don't know where I would be without the help and support from Leslye and Curt!

Happy Training!!

Cat-ittude....Attack of the Collies

2011-01-05T06:17:00.000-08:00

I had a few minutes to steal this compawter. My male human has been tormenting me for several days with a flying...he calls it a hell-i-copter. He flys it over me and around me and at me. At first I was a little scared, but now it just pisses me off. It is like magic. I KNOW he is doing it, but I don't know how. Each time I jump to snatch it out of the air, like magic it flies up too high for me to get. He laughs and I know it is him. I am a patient girl....vengance will be mine.

This morning, we planned a group attack. We waited for the female to leave. Then I sent Flash in to the sleeping chamber and had him give kisses and cuddles to the male. It worked, he stayed in his bed. Flirt went on reconnaissance, and found the hell-i-copter. She gave me the signal and I went in. We destroyed it. I chew it up and spat it out. I took pieces of it all over, and Flirt helped me hide some of them for later.

By then the human knew we were up to something....abort mission Flirt.....we ran! So while he chased Flirt (she had a big piece in her mouth) I went to the sleep chamber on a search and destroy mission. I grabbed a candle and went in the closet. I chewed as fast as I could...he was coming. He was shouting and reaching...I squeezed past him and ran!

Let's see you tease me again PUNK! I think I will go poo on the floor now! HAHAHA
Catalina-

Show-n-going

2011-01-02T12:38:00.000-08:00

Took Flash to the show and go at AOC, we ROCKED it!! It was great. We were a great team today and the connected was awesome. We both had a great time. He did every exercise beautifully!! I am SO excited!!

We have 3 shows in the coming weeks. Surely we can get the 2 legs we need for our open title!! Then we have Curt's seminar, I am very exicted about that!! I think I have decided to take Cat. 2011 is going to be her year. I am hopeful to get both her championship AND her CD this year, then shoot for open. I have already started training her for open. She has a GREAT drop!!

Back to training....talk to ya later!

Very Sad News

2010-12-29T12:47:00.000-08:00

One of the girls on our therapy group Sasha, lost her beautiful boxer Daphne. She was the sweetest girl and she and Sasha were very close. It is never an easy thing to loose a special dog. Daphne was a delight to all that knew her.

Apparently she had stopped eating and drinking for a little over a week. After looking at everything, finally figured out that she was riddled with GI Lymphoma. There was nothing they could do for her. She was only 4 years old.

I had her in puppy class and loved her since the second I saw her. I feel so bad for Sasha. I know what its like to loose such a great friend.

Can you see the little kitty she has between her back legs? Daphne was a special girl and will be missed by all that knew her.

Back to work

2010-12-28T04:38:00.000-08:00

Whew...my human and I had a tough workout last night. I worked her hard! We haven't been working very much lately, and I miss it. We did our heeling...I rocked it. I am SO awesome. She has started something weird though....she grabs my butt. Every time I glance away, she pinches me. What is THAT all about? At first, I thought she was mad, but she pinches, and moves back, so I go after her. She always asks the same thing..."where did you go Flash...what happened?" I am standing right here!! Can't take my eyes off her for a second...she is sneaky and up to something....I better just watch her.

She told me last night that I better get used to working hard, she has us entered in another show. She says if I don't get another leg soon, she is gonna break one of mine. I have NO idea what that means though. I guess I will take her out again tonight and work her.

Flash-

Snow??

2010-12-26T05:50:00.000-08:00

Everyone around us has several inches of snow. We maybe got 1-2! The collies LOVE it. They took off running laps around the yard....then stopped to eat it!

I want a sable under the tree!

2010-12-25T08:49:00.000-08:00

This ad from Mandalay's Collies & Shelties is SO adorable!! There is NOTHING as cute as a sheltie puppy!!

Happy "Collie-Days"!

2010-12-24T11:33:00.000-08:00

We are having such a wonderful day! Our humans are cooking and chopping-food is flying everywhere!! We are under her feet...just in case she drops something else. Flirt has been on a "trip" her mission all day, the spoils go to me & Cat. Don't worry Flirt has got her share too. I hope we get some of this for dinner....the house smells delicious!!!

Flash, Cat, & Flirt-

Cold Weather

2010-12-23T15:50:00.000-08:00

We may be a Collies but we are Smooth Collies! We also have NO undercoat, hence the "smoothness"... Flirt has a nice undercoat and long luxurious hair to keep her warm. But we are COLD! We have decided to stay inside all day to keep ourselves warm. Napping on our fluffy soft bed is the perfect place on a day like today. It is so cold!! The floor is even too cold to lay on. I prefer the humans bed...but they kicked us out!
Now we hear that it may be rainy, cold AND snow....we may die!!!!
Flash & Cat-

Shut-up you big babies! I don't complain when it is summer and I am dying of heat stroke! It is even THAT cold!!
Flirt-

Terror-py Dog

2010-12-23T15:43:00.000-08:00

Well, I decided to take over the compawter. I had to get this out. We went on a therapy visit yesterday, to a big hospital. I was a little nervous, but there were some of my friends there, and a fine looking boy that I fell in love with. His name is Apollo he is a pit bull, and I love him....don't tell Jett, he will get jealous. Any way, while I always enjoy visiting with the people we meet, I have to tell you about something a little weird!

We went into this little room, we were all crowded together. Then the doors closed and the floor started moving. I was SO scared. The doors opened up again, like magic! I wasted NO time getting out of there, I didn't care where we were! The next time we got again, same thing. We were whisked away to a new place. They called it a ell-o-vater. I really don't think I like that. Riding in the collie-mobile is bad enough!

Cat-

Where is the time??

2010-12-22T08:01:00.000-08:00

I am feeling a bit stressed. I have not wrapped a single gift. I have not done my baking, I have not worked the dogs in a few days. Tonight, I will be wrapping and baking!! Christmas is only a few days away and I need to get on it!

Looking forward to spending the day eating, and hanging out with the fam and friends. We will be at the bowling ally after we do presents and eat. I used the bumpers last time...I think I may accidentally do that again, although they really did not improve my score!!

Happy "Collie-Days" :)

Here We Go Again

2010-12-20T16:47:00.000-08:00

Went and hung out at the show yesterday. Got to watch Curt & Key do their utility run, awesome as usual. I totally love to watch them. They are such a great team! Of course, I learned a bunch just from watching and he gave me a few more ideas for training. Whew, I need to get thru Christmas, then it will be back to training pretty hard to get ready for the show the end of January.

So far training has been great. While I don't think Flash will ever be a fast dropper, he is doing it! I have been trying some new things Curt helped me with and it seems to be working for us. Catalina is coming along nicely too. Her heeling is nice, though I need to do more of it. She has also been more steady with her sit stays.

2011 is going to be the year that Flash gets his CDX, Cat get her championship and CD! (I hope!) Keep your fingers crossed for us :)

Happy training!!

Sad News

2010-12-14T09:46:00.000-08:00

I hadn't said anything about this, because it is just so sad. Flash's lone surviving puppy died. They don't know why. Monique and her family are heartbroken, they really loved that little guy. I have been pretty sad about it too.

Sometimes things like this happen, doesn't really matter why, it just hurts. Some people think that breeding animals, and having babies is all fun and games and easy. That could not be further from the truth. There is a lot of heartache in it too. I am very sad................

This-n-That

2010-12-13T09:48:00.000-08:00

We have most of our Christmas shopping is mostly done. Just need to wrap it all. I also need to get some of it mailed out so it wil actaully be there in time!! Tree is up and decorated (thanks to Marty & Katie) I have done NO baking yet....I will be every night this week though! Poor little Ethan had some surgery last week, but made a quick recovery! Sean passed his boards this past weekend, so is looking for a job as a Pharmacy Tech, keep your fingers crossed for him! Katie is in the process of registering for school.

In the misdst of all the parties and other obligations I am proud to say that I AM squeezing in some training. Flash is doing great with his stays and drops, thanks once again to Curt and his help! Right now I am trying to figure out where to show. Hopeful to have that hard to get CDX in the next couple months. Then, I think I will take a break with Flash, and concentrate on Cat. I would like to have her trained through open, and get her CD next year, as well as her championship. Also, thinking about breeding her in the spring...there are a couple boys we are looking at.

Getting EXCITED about my trip to Alabama in February. Going to Curt's seminar...I can't wait!! I learn SO much from him and love to watch he and Key work. He has a new baby, she is very cute, and of course trained to heel at 10 weeks! He is really amazing.

Dawn-tell Jimmie I am making some peanut brittle for him :) Gotta go, smell you all later!

Utility Training

2010-11-30T04:39:00.000-08:00

After open class last night, we did some utility work. Flash LOVES utility! It is SO amazing to me that in the open work he was droopy and kinda not into it at all. We did some go outs, and he took off running!! Then some directed jumping and he was SO fast it freaked me out, he almost knocked me over a couple times. This dog is such a wonderful, amazing pain in the ass! haha I never know what he is gonna do :)

Weekend Work

2010-11-30T04:35:00.000-08:00

Had a wonderful time with Curt. He SO rocks! I am always excited to go spend some time with him, he is an awesome trainer and has "trained" me so much! This weekend was more about me than Flash. I have some issues with staying neutral and keeping my happy voice. This is something that I actually DO realize and am working on it. Flash is VERY sensitive to me and my moods, so I HAVE to be better. Still working on tranistions. He gave me some things to do and work on, so here I go again!

We also worked Cat some. She is so very different from Flash. He is very serious and hard for me to pep up. Cat is a ball of energy and is hard for me to tame her down a bit. Oh well, all this makes a good trainer...right?! Flash is like "oh, we are doing this again.....?" Cat is "OH WE ARE DOING THIS AGAIN!!" Makes for some interesting work outs.

I am still decompressing from all the info and plans Curt gave me. I will have my "plans" in order and start working hard in the next couple days.
Keep good thoughts and fingers crossed for Curt. He is headed to the Nationals this weekend!! Good Luck Curt & Key!!

Happy Training!!

Flash's Litter

2010-11-26T12:34:00.000-08:00

Sad news. 3 puppies, 2 died at birth, not sure if they ever took a breath. There was only 1 lone pup that lived. A tri-boy. Mom and pup are doing well though.
I find this so heartbreaking. I am so sad. I know that is has been very sad for the bitch's family as well.

Cute little guy though! I LOVE PUPPIES!!!!

Plop, plop, fizz, fizz....

2010-11-26T12:17:00.000-08:00

Oh my! I spent 2 days cooking and prepping, but it was well worth it!! I love Thanksgiving. Having my mommie, sister and brother-in-law here was wonderful. Sean and Ethan even popped in for a "sample" of dinner too. Of course our adopted "Bailey" Michelle was here too. It is a rare thing that we were all together, and I was just so happy!
There was NO leftover turkey or desserts. Not so sad about the desserts, but cooked some turkey today just to go with the left overs!
I must say that my desserts totally rocked!! Cheesecake Factory has got nothing on me!! Red Velvet Cheesecake was too die for and Pavlova was awesome. The Pecan Pie Cheesecake, I heard was good...but I didn't get a piece of it.
Then we did our traditional bowling....OMG I am such a loser. I probably should practice for next year! HAHA Katie got a "TURKEY" and was great. We all had a great day!
Now, everyone has gone, and I am a bit sad and depressed. I miss my family in Florida.
Back to the real world....will be training tomorrow at the building with Leslye, then Sunday headed to see Curt....we are gonna have FUN!

Hillbilly Hoe-down!

2010-11-21T06:26:00.000-08:00

Well, the wedding was very nice. Not too much drama, no fist-fights or too many hurt feelings. Great family time. It was even more special because Sean, Ingrid and E were there. I love them so much and it was so special for me that they made the long trip.

It was the first time in many years that my whole family was together. Aunts, Uncles, cousins, in-laws and out-laws. I loved it! I got to show Ethan and my kids off and they had a great time. Ethan tore up the dance floor! He was so adorable, some if the kids were trying to break dance...so he had to try too :)

Whirlwinds

2010-11-19T07:46:00.000-08:00

Ok, so after the past two days of being at war with various issues and people, things settled down....NOT!! I have a bunch to do TODAY!! I have to clean, do laundry, grocery shop, put the downstairs room back together (UGH) and make my Thanksgiving menu. OH MY where has the time gone?? Family should be here late tonight, wedding and hillbilly hoe-down tomorrow night, Sunday dinner for 10, and why I am on the computer??? Started out I was looking for something....if I can only remember what it was!!

Welcome to the World of Collies

2010-11-13T04:56:00.000-08:00

That's what Curt told me when I once again was having some issues. In training the other night, Flash told me that I have never trained him to heel. We had a "discussion" and suddenly he vaguely remembered that indeed he did know how to heel.

This dog is killing me! I am over wallowing in my frustraion and confusion with Flash. I am now pissed. He is NOT going to blow me off, he IS going to do all the excercises. If it kills me, we WILL get our CDX. This is fun, this is fun, this is fun!!

In reality, I know that all these hills and battles is making me a better trainer. Problem solving, proofing, and a battle of wills is what it has come down to. I also believe that the realtionship is what matters most. I think we have come a long way, still have a way to go, but we are getting there. I am SO EXCITED to be headed to Curt's in a few weeks. I wish he was closer so I could go more often. He is amazing!

This week is going to be CRAZY!! I have my whole fam from Florida coming in this weekend. Lots of painting, cleaning, grocery shopping, etc to do. In addition, wedding on Saturday in NC. On top of that, I entered Flash next Sunday!! What was I thinking!? So now I have to find time every day to train. No problem, I love it!! Something else will have to give. Plus I have a totally awesome husband that will jump in and pick up my slack! He ROCKS!!

Puppies!!!!

2010-11-12T05:17:00.000-08:00

Just talked to Monique, Allie is getting BIG! Lots of milk, and she is doing great. She took her for an ultrasound, saw at least 4...thinking there are MORE than that! Flash's last litter was 7, so who knows. She will be taking her for an x-ray as she gets closer to delivery to get a head count. We are both SO excited, this litter should be beautiful!!!