Saturday, October 30, 2010

Back from Nationals!





Well Thumper and I went to Waco Texas on October 18 to participate in the Australian Shepherd Club of America National Specialty and had a great time.   Entered in 9-12 month puppy class all week Thumper took first place in his class in all 3 'pre-shows'  (Hill Country ASC, All-Around ASC, and ASC of Washington shows) in increasingly large classes. In the National show Thumper also won his class in 9-12 month puppy sweeps, winning a bit of cash and another blue ribbon. In regular class competition in the National Thumper placed 4th in a large class. He showed well all weak but definitely became weary after so many times in the ring on consecutive days along with being confined far more than at home. He did get some good playtime with his traveling companions and even celebrated his birthday and the completion of his week of showing by buying me ice cream with his winnings. (He turned a year old this last week). Overall he traveled like a pro and made many new acquaintances. I will post some win photos for his shows when they are sent to me in a few weeks. Meanwhile here he is runinng and playing with his travel mates at a play stop en route to Texas.

Monday, October 11, 2010

Family avisitin' and other stuff.




Had a visit from Gracie the other day, the golden girl from the first litter. Much play ensued, though their mother could have been more lenient. (That is, I believe, why they are called bitches). But Gracie got some much-enjoyed exercise with brother Uno and half-siblings Ziva and Thumper.




Also in other news....Lila has moved back to Maryland!  We decided she was not going to be a star in the conformation ring and so the decision was made to place her in a home not looking for a show/breeding prospect. It happened that Teddy's home had room for a little sister and so she is now living with her half-brother just down the road from me, interacting safely with Mary's free-range chickens, and having a grand time.

And last but hardly least, Painter (Inkwell's Paintbrush of Milwin), belonging to Bev McWhirter, won more points towards his AKC championship last weekend in Pennsylvania, going BOB/Group 3 one day and Winner's Dog/Best Opp the other, all under the expert hand of Amanda Giles. Congratulations to Bev and Amanda! Hope to be able to post a Group placing photo soon!  Until then here he is from a recent portrait session.

Thursday, October 7, 2010

New family portrait...

Smaller than the last one, and not because I am not in it. The household is down to 4 dogs with Emma gone. Not any quieter, but definitely different. Miss you Mems.