Merry Christmas from the cabin...

Last night as the dogs were tucked into their beds, they were told a wonderful Christmas gift would be to sleep in after 6am. They heard each word as the jingle of Buster's collar didn't wake our silence until 6:32am. An arm is draped over the bed waiting for his fluffy head to appear. Carlee is giddy with excitement and we all stretch the sleep away.

Christmas morning outside was cloudy with thousands of birthday lights celebrating Jesus birthday. Homes were still dark, deer lay nearby and breath hung still in the crisp air. Happy Birthday we sang ever so quietly, o come let us adore Him!


Gifts tucked into handmade bone-shaped stockings for the kids and wool draped our shoulders for warmth. Another beautiful celebration. We wish you a Merry Christmas and a blessed day of celebration however you choose to celebrate. Peace and goodwill all year through to all of you.

Take care friends, hug your dogs today, keep them warm and give a little extra in their dishes.

Keep me warm...

The night before last a chill had stirred me about 4am, waking Carlee I simply whispered, "keep me warm." With all her weight she fell against my back and pushed until she could move no more. I smiled and thought, if she were any closer she'd be in front of me, but I asked for warmth and she provided until it was time to get up and moving.


She must've had a litter before she came to us, her instincts are spot on and she is very caring, loving and a bit protective. Yes, she is the girl that keeps track of the yellow fuzzy duck. If she cannot find it, she expects us to find it and she'll wait patiently until she nearly shakes out of her skin with anticipation. Then in a split second something will spook her, she moves like lightning and quickly finds me. Will this spookiness leave?! We console and reassure, "you are home, you are safe" and is allowing more hugs. No one should fear their home, it should be the same for our animals.

Take care friends.

Stressed dogs vs humans

Stressed as we know spelled backwards is desserts, who stopped to look at that and share it with the world is genius in my book. We purchase few gifts at Christmas, most come from our oven, one size fits all and if not liked, regift so someone else can enjoy. Our gift of baking comes straight from the heart, details of sorts, learned from my Mother. Unsure where the stress comes from, but it was pointed out to me and I chuckle with them, to many days home in a row, I stress the dogs. Today Buster is stressing me out, his stories have gotten long. They jump when I growl, stress tells me I need to walk 2 miles and then find my way home again. Thankfully they are always happy to see me and I am happy to see them.

Remember when duck duck goose was popular in the new snow, our run looks much like that with many more patterns and not one followed twice. The path not taken is safe in our yard and Buster the Brave creates anew when he runs to greet us.

For those waiting for a White Christmas will get their wish, we love the snow if we don't need to be traveling in it. Wishing you a prosperous day.

Take care friends.

Don't lick that...

Remember hearing those words as a kid?! I am no different when it comes to Buster, he's so curious about everything, he licks it. He's heard the phrase each time he goes out,"Don't lick anything." I've seen other kids skin still stuck to the post and how cool we thought it was, but boy howdy it must've stung like the dickens. He wouldn't have waited for me to help...all looks good.

Running "E" on dog food, I had no choice but to venture into town. Thankful for no wind and the white knight to turn over on the first try. Winter isn't official for another week, think warm. Cuddle up in a warm blanket out of the dryer and under a dog. Sleep well and be safe.

Take care friends.

Dog tired...

A slow start to the day at the Mall, but it picked up and often when I begin to pack up the crowd grows. Giving a business card to everyone, even people that don't have dogs but are interested in our product and give good feedback. They like the idea, some wished they had a dog, well, when they get one they know how to contact us.

Returning home I am tired, the boxes though lighter, seem heavier. My welcome home is H U G E, two very happy dogs one jumping, the other stretching. Carlee ready to play and Buster ready to water the gate. Different personalities, same love.

The mall always draws new faces, new curiousity and new buyers. I greet everyone with a hello, a smile or a wave. During the lull's my dogfancy magazine allowed me to catch up on reading. Gifts from children and friends with stockings for our kids made with our treats. Creative and the dogs love'm!

We are certainly blessed. Thanks friends!
Take care.

Weekend weather...

Wow! If the weather stayed like this through Spring, we'd be happy campers! Snow can blow away, far, far, away. Our list is shorter because of the great weather. We baked many hours on dog treats, ornaments and Christmas crackers to garland on the deck and trimming the dogs. Buster adored the outdoors coming in to eat and drink through one door and walk to the other.

The days are getting much shorter, when I called for Buster he hopped up the stairs and scooted in the door and waited for a treat. That will come in the form of a hot dog pill pocket, they are both on Pepcid (confirm with your Vet). Stomach's stirring in wee hours of the night almost like sympathy sickness, as you may have read in another blog entry, nothing wakes me faster than a retching dog. Running low on paper towels, it took us into town for errands. Sunday, no big sales and we had the store pretty much to ourselves, what a blessing!

On that note it's time for their next fix and a bowl of hot soup. Stay safe, warm and safe travels. Look in on your dogs and keep them close.

Take care friends.

The weather outside is...

Feel free to create your own adjective. It is blustry and still 12 above, but thinking that'll drop quickly as the lingering of any sunset is gone. Carlee just wants out and in while Buster lingers marking his territory. Tomorrow morning I'll probably have to chip him off the ground, the steady stream will be his connector. Happy Thanksgiving!

Our floors are mini gravel pits and grass catchers, as their feet and the human's boots track the outdoors in. Humans are fortunate to take off our boots and leave at the door, I don't imagine I could be as flexible to bend and remove the debris.

Stay warm, safe and do the same for your animals. They rely on us to keep them from harm. Take care friends.

Buster/Carlee's Mom.

Why the apron?!

A gal stopped by the Zonta Fair last weekend asking a variety of questions one being, "Why the apron?" A Barkery is a bakery for dogs. though we don't work in a bakery, where aprons are worn, but a Barkery and we wear the apron at shows, fairs and at the Farmer's Market. My sister made them, she did a fine job. Look at our card when you pick it up, our treats are "Made with Love from Our Barkery!"
*******
"Really, you want me to taste what I am treating my dog?!" Yes we do! You can read our ingredients, something you've had before, just not called a dog treat. What's good for the Baker is good for the Barker. In moderation of course, remember they are treats, not regular dog food. Often times we hear, "It's just not normal!" or "It's just the idea." So, we pop a sample into our mouth describing the flavor. It taste like a Wheat Thin w/o the sugar/salt. One hunter simply said, "It tastes like a cheerio!" Well said!
*******
Feel free to ask questions, we love talking about our treats. Oh, by the way, you won't grow a tail or scratch your ear with a foot. If you do or can, we'd be happy to laugh with you!

Frozen to the ground?!

We did not venture onto the highway this morning, cars were having problems with traction and many taillights lit as they drove. Thankful today is Sunday. Buster wants out at first light, and before. He may have missed something during the night and was awake at 5:45am. Sending him back to bed for another 1/2 hour (it's the weekend), he managed to watch the clock flip numbers and tired after 15 minutes.

With the comfort of breakfast neatly tucked away, he goes out and we accidently nap in a cozy chair. I call for him and only Carlee turns to look at me, shoot, I left him outside. He looked frozen to the ground, he didn't move when I opened the door. "Buddy, are you okay?!" He turns his head to look up, wiggled his butt and shot up the stairs. It was only about a 1/2 hour, it was chilly but his coat is thick. His feet were cool, but he cuddled up on a blanket and sleeps soundly nearby.

The kitchen awaits baking, off we go, enjoy your day.
Take care friends and for goodness sakes, don't forget to check on your dogs.

Business has gone to the dogs...

If you missed the Zonta Holiday Fair this weekend, you missed quite a show. Not only were there showings at the Ramkota but at the Pierre Mall. If you didn't find anything, you might not have been looking hard enough. Besides there were tons of samples and most everyone had a sucker sticking out of their mouth.

Again, we met some wonderful people, heard dog stories and new names like Pumpernickel, Jet, Toby May and Nevaio. Our business certainly has gone to the dogs and that's a good thing!

Standing on cement floors and sitting in upright chairs puts kinks in backs and feet. No matter how often you get up and walk, or pad the chair and even the most comfortable shoes just wasn't working by 1pm Sunday. Only 2 hours to go and the "kids" were tickled to see my face at the door after the Fair. Giddy with excitement, they knew there'd be treats! They get the samples that are left in the treat dishes at day's end.

Fed, pampered, hugged and business done, they lay close by dozing, one ear on alert in case we make a move. It's early to bed for us tonite, sleep well, safe travels and we'll see you at the Pierre Mall, Sunday December 5th. You can always call or email us your order, we deliver in city limits of Pierre/Fort Pierre and gladly ship to your dog.

Take care friends.

Veteran's Day..America the Beautiful

My parents both came from large family's, from those, brothers joined various Armed Forces and were sent abroad to fight. Few stories were told of the horror's they saw, but boys always remembered their Mothers with trinkets. The World War's were tragic as war is today. A nephew just went back over and in daily prayers we hold him up, just as we thanked my uncles this morning.

Uncle's Frank and Rex were especially important in my life, they returned from war long ago, both played the accordian enjoying Oldtime music, playing dances and laughing. I miss them and think of them often.

On this note, keep your family and friends close in prayer and abroad for solder's safe returns. Veteran's Day, not a day that should go unnoticed, but everyday is fought.

We wish you safe travels and blessings.
We hope to see you soon.

Let me in...let me in!

Halloween many years ago Mom would take us kids and neighbor kids around on Halloween in the car. In a dark alley, she must've counted excited kids in the car and thought mine was one of them. As she began to drive away, I grabbed the door handle yelling, "Let me in, let me in!" It was only seconds before she realized but to me, it was forever.

We told the kids Sunday late afternoon as we continued to work in the last juice of daylight, we will now have quick dark nights but early morning light. As tools were gathered and carried into the house, I heard scratching on the door. Indeed, in a blink of an eye it had turned dark and I thought I heard the frantic, "Let me in, let me in!"

Dark isn't their favorite while outside, we stand post on the deck and welcome the extra hour. Enjoy your extra hour.

Take care friends.

What a wonderful world...

Three days of gusty winds clocked steady at 44mph gusting to 60mph, heavy wet snow that stuck to trees, homes and the highway and today, sunshine, no wind and a temperature reaching into the 50's. What a wonderful world! A bit whacked, but wonderful!

We knew we'd meet friends today, one does at fairs setting up and visiting while there is a lull. I had met a gal 2 weeks ago, she said she'd be at the Pierre Senior Center today. Luck had it, we were right next to each other. Her sister was along, turned out they are twins and a triplet brother in Las Vegas. Betty, Billie and Bernard, they turned 80 this year. The girls traveled from Chamberlain and Reliance with drivers. Reminding me much of my own Mother, it was a joy to visit with both of them. Wishing them safe travel home, unsure when I'll run into them again, hopefully soon.

Fair vendors really need to be outgoing or will soon learn to be. If you believe in your product you'll tell anyone. It took me a bit to do just that, but now I find myself unable to stop talking. When I notice deer-in-the-headlight look in their eyes, I offer a sample from our dog dishes and say, "Try a sample!" Yes, they usually are hesitant so I eat one or two. It is a requirement to sit my booth when I need to run and let the dogs out. I have friends that'll purchase and tell approaching people, "Your dogs will love these treats!" She's fun and a good advertiser...word of mouth!

Tomorrow we begin baking Christmas items, ready for the Zonta Holiday Fair. If you don't make it to that one, call or email us your Christmas orders. Great for stocking stuffers, granddogs, neighbor dogs and for that hard-to-buy person.

The chill is back in the air, time to close the windows that aired the house today. Find supper and settle in with the kids. Thanks for your continued patronage. We appreciate you and being part of our wonderful world.

Have you hugged your dog today?
Take care friends.

Cheese...

Carlee is a magnet for cheese, even to reach out to zip off the new top as we bake treats she is at my heel, ready and waiting for something to drop. I laugh as she knows well, our floor is clean. She's also a very good vacuum.

We baked treats yesterday replenishing our past weekend and preparing for the Ladie's Day out at the Pierre Senior Center, Oct 30th from 9-3. The weather will be pleasant and though the time is short, it is also sweet. Still able to get home before dark and empty pots of plants or what we don't get done at night after work.

The chill in the air has kicked in our heat and it feels good, it is afterall the end of October and the turn of seasons and fall back of time is just around the corner.

Buster is outside watching the neighbor spread gravel with his bobcat, wishing for a ride I am sure. Carlee is snuggled on a bed somewhere as they are scattered about the cool wood floors.

On that note, its time to curl up into a warm supper of steamed dumplings and potato's...a warm memory food, comforting. Enjoy your comfort foods, curl up under a dog or blanket and enjoy your evening.

Take care friends.

Reflections...

It was near dark when we carried in our last boxes from yesterday's fair at the Pierre Mall. Carlee was growling low and mean, until I turned around did I notice her reflection in the door window. She didn't like what she saw because when she moved, the other dog did too. We saved the door pulling the blind, patting her on the head reassuring she was safe, she trotted off to find her duck.

Another good fair, great weather, new customers, interested parties and cool winds for the hunting dogs and their humans. We could've been home painting, but we were in good company as we were placed next to friends which make the slow parts of the day faster.

We're taking it easy today, we'll bake only a few hours and find time for a ride and walk. Sunday's are good for family, enjoy yours, mine is dreaming nearby.

Take care friends.

What a Difference a Day Makes...

So true how we can get so much done in an extra day. We baked dog treats and will be rotating pans from oven top to oven. As batches were made each pan found a home in a chair and then we used box top lids, lined with foil, each having fans blowing on them to dry. The dogs are walking with their noses in the air walking from chair to chair.

Our last market day left us with only 4 small bags of treats, Wow! Playing catch up the past few days we celebrate our baking days by loading up the Ford and going for our weekend ride and walk. We'll be ready for bed early, Carlee is already stretched across the floor, even the ringing phone didn't stir her. Buster is out talking with the neighbor dogs and we're catching up on emails and orders to fill.

On that note, sleep well in the cool of the night and enjoy your week.
Take care friends.

First frost...

Saturday morning was a surprise to us as we turned on the wipers to clear the water from the windshield...it was frost! Heart sunk as I didn't have a clue where my scraper was, instead I turned on the window cleaner spritzing a couple of times and it came right off. I'm not ready, I know cooler mornings are now around the corner. I do love Autumn, changing colors everywhere one looks driving across the prairie.

Pumpkins are displayed waiting for faces and seeds to be toasted, dogs howling at the moon. Okay, we have neighbor dogs that just howl, an eerie sound, but I do like it. Carlee howls, it was her only voice for some time when she came home to live with us. Sometimes she surprises us with a howl and I answer her back. Yes, she thinks we're odd too.

A gusty windy day today, Buster has been out dozing on the deck. It's time to get the day going on baking treats and human treats, today is my birthday. My treat is a pot of soup to slow cook all day and be ready for supper when we're done making dog treats. It's a great day!

Enjoy!

Cleo the calico cat...

She has been eating out of several bowls of food and water that have been left out for her daily for the last many weeks. One neighbor and I had the same idea when we felt it was time for a live trap. Friends had one, we purchased smelly food to attract her and she was caught the first night. She was wet and unhappy, but kept in a dry garage away from the elements and predators. Most likely a good day to sleep. By day's end Cleo allowed petting from children and their Mom.

Calling the "parents" of the good news, they didn't have time to pick her up and offered her to the Humane Society. I was very unhappy and we took it upon ourselves to find her a home. Four friends filled my mind and it just goes to show her parents, Cleo has a new home. A big barn filled with hay, food and friends she'll warm up with as she relearns to trust. Cleo was welcomed into a farm family and picked up the same day, with her new home she can stay out of the cold and rain, sleep and chase the dog. As of this writing she's still a little skittish, maybe she looks for Felix. We're hoping the sun draws her out to the sounds of human voices that welcome her with a scratch behind her ears and a "Hello Cleo, welcome home!"

Enjoy your week!

Fall is fair time...

Our last weekend at the Farmer's Market this year will be October 2nd, 2010. From there we begin with fall fairs. Keep this list posted to your frig, but don't wait for us to be at a fair. We cannot make it any easier for you to contact us. We do free delivery's in Pierre/Fort Pierre and ship out. Call when you are running low as it takes a week for treats to dry.

Watch the Reminder ads advertising for the following local fairs: This is where we'll be.

October 16th, 2010 Hunter's Wives Day Out located at the Pierre Mall

October 30th, 2010 Ladie's Day Out located at the Pierre Senior Citizen's Building

November 13-14, 2010 Zonta Holiday Craft Fair, we are in the NW corner. Saturday friends sit for lunch. They heckle and have fun while we tend the dogs.

December we'll be at the Pierre Mall, we just haven't decided on a date yet. We'll keep you posted.

Keep Bab's treats in your cookie jars, you're dog will love you more!
Take care friends.

Door to door...

It's pretty neat going in one door and going out another, Buster runs quick to the other door as if there is a surprise waiting for him. Yea!..it's outside!

He's our greeter, I may have mentioned that before, a story for all who will listen. There isn't ever just one bark, it's multiple. He'll run after whoever drives fastest and follow them to the stop sign. I must admit, he is safe, he runs from the gate, beelines around a deck corner and stops to stick his nose between railings and his tail wags fiercely. Ya gotta watch out, stand back, once he's running there's little stopping him.

Just when I think he cannot see me, I'm not sure he can in the dark outside as he leans forward and sniffs, but he'll weave in and out between chair legs when I toss his toy under the kitchen table. You might think hair in his eyes, but his trim is standing the test of time.

We're careful and watch him, Carlee watches over too. We let him run and enjoy too. He waits for me to lift him down the steps, we don't want him to think he's getting to old to move and run. He'll be well, he is blessed and so are we...for having him here. He does like his hugs, they are abundant here.

3 little seeds...

Buster L O V E S apples. A staple of his diet before he came to the cabin. He found one in the grocery bag yesterday and ran away like the wind. Crunch, crunch, crunch looking for another.

We went for our early morning walk, got caught up in some nasty sand burrs, we stopped and pulled out what we could so they could still walk back to the car. I offered to carry, but they wouldn't dream of it, what if another dog saw them?! Geesh! Walking around the building where Mom works, looking in windows, leaving 3 smudges, we headed back to the car and off to run errands. The car ride was no fun for them as burrs were being pulled from their fur. We don't have burrs in our yard, but we don't have grass like where we walk, it's coming.

Water was on the menu for our return and a treat, grabbing an apple, giving Buster the core, he gobbled and promptly went out. Upon inspection, he left 3 little seeds. Good boy! Apples have been placed out of reach, trimming required. Enough said.

It's a beautiful morning, meadowlarks are singing and oh my gosh it's already 10:15, no time for coffee on the deck, we have things to do...fortunately, outside.
Enjoy your day.

Dog allergic?

We list our ingredients on a 8 x 11 sheet of paper in LARGE PRINT. Our customers as young as 2nd grade can read to their parents the ingredients that make our treats crunchy and wonderful. Our list of 10 ingredients is readily available.

Several new customers excited to purchase treats said their dogs were allergic to corn meal or another said allergic to chicken and corn meal. If you haven't read our label, we encourage customers to do so. Our nutrition statement is lab tested. SD Dept of Ag requested packaged and distributed; nutrition statement; weight in oz/g and of course ingredients on our labels before we could sell.

Corn meal is ok in moderation . Our dogs get 2 treats daily M-F, weekends are fewer. This ingredient is listed on our dog food bag. Our dogs are fed 3/4 c each day, divided into 3 meals. What is corn meal so often doing to their systems?

We will not treat your dog what our dogs cannot eat.
The weekend is just around the corner. Enjoy.

Shorter days...

We celebrate Christmas all year round. We sing, we dance, we enjoy life, we are blessed! More so this weekend, my sister joined us at the Farmer's Market, we caught up on life and enjoyed eating good foods. Buster warms up real quick and he should be promptly named "Snoopy", Carlee on the other hand keeps her distance, but our voices are similar and she stays close.

Our baking day was shortened by a hot snap, we didn't want to turn on the air, so we stopped and will continue early Labor Day morning. A good morning for coffee and a nap in the chair as it is forecasted to be rainy and cool. We'll bake until we run out of a ingredient. We have orders to fill, we'll bake at least 7 batches of treats which is just over 8 hours of baking.

Last call tonite for the kids was 8:45, it was dark and we don't look forward to the shorter days. No daylight at 6am and dark at 8:30 even the dogs notice last call is getting earlier. They stop drinking water early, no treats til morning.
Linger tomorrow, enjoy whatever you do. Stay safe.

Tiny meow...

I heard it, faint as it was, it was a meow. I froze. I don't call "Here kitty, kitty!" What if the cat came over, what would I do?! I would reach out for her and have her follow me to a cat neighbor. She will submit, tired of being on the run. She must look for her buddy Felix, she'll have to trust we'll get her home too. I shake the food bag, feeding and watering about 8:30 each evening.

I scope the prairie with binoculars, but her white fur patches blend in with the turning grasses. She'll become accustomed to my "new routine", when she decides to come out to feed and follows me home, we're in trouble. For not being a cat person, why are we trying so hard to catch her? Her parents don't have time to come back, she belongs to a family and she must be missing them. She needs to go home, we'll sleep better.

Good night friends.

Sweltering heat...

Even as I look out the window nothing moves, even the grasshoppers have stopped hopping which gives us an advantage of moving in and taking over. We continue to water and feed the lost calico cat Cleo. There is an indention in our tall grass near the food dishes and maybe where she sleeps at night, but we haven't seen hide nor hair of her and we continue to pray for her health in these stagnant temps.

I am assured as the temps will drop she will come inside somewhere, it's been 4 months she's been out, if she's moved on to someone else, something is eating the food. The dogs smell something as they run for the edge of the fence, sniffing and marking.

We met new people at the market today, some friends stopped to visit and others just curious and wished they had a dog so they could purchase our treats. Remember, the Humane Society has dogs looking for homes, begin there. Our two dogs are 2nd chances, did their previous homes know their personality's and kindness? We do and we are blessed to have them home with us.

Stay cool and protect your pets.
Take care.

One down, one to go...

As soon as I got the initial bath water off Buster he was ready to zip out the door and go outside. He ran, danced and played as the wind cooled and dried him on this near 100 degree day. The towels are quickly drying and we patiently wait for Carlee to come out of hiding.

They've done their how-do-you-do sniff. She wonder's who this new dog is invading her territory, they take chase around the table eventually stopping for water and a "thanks Mom" smile from Buster. You're welcome, son.

Between 2 neighbor's and I the cat was caught and has made it's way all the way home via carrier, turn's out his name is Felix. Cleo the calico was spotted the evening Felix left, most likely looking for him. We continue to feed, hoping to catch Cleo too. Family's are busy, take time to remember your pets if you are moving or find them new homes. They feel abandoned and hearts of neighbors try and rescue. On these hot days, my prayer is she's able to manage through. Cats are tough, but now she's alone and will need to relearn trust of humans. She's eating, that's a good sign.

Take care friends, stay cool.

All aboard...

From children to dogs, whether they are in front with you or the bed of a pickup, they trust us with their lives, then some idiot drives in front of us and "forgets" to use their turn signal. Brakes are used immediately often times sending dogs forward at a jolt without warning.

We went for a long awaited ride Saturday evening and I tell the dogs when we are going to turn, go into a curve, bump and we're stopping. They seem to adjust the pads of their feet to move with the car and human passengers say, they don't understand, but they do. They await my cue and we keep distance from other vehicles so we can stop or slow down quickly with warning.

Buster had befriended a neighbor's cat several years ago and now those neighbors have moved and when they came back for their cats, they both sensed something was up and kept distance, one less tame and one calmer and her name is Cleo. I'm not a cat person, there I've said it, but I don't want to see them hurt or freightened either. They are beautiful and they have humans that love them as much as I love my dogs. Cleo meow's and I call for her, last night I saw her in our drain field nestled in the tall grass. I took water and food for her in a clearing and went to tell my neighbor, who is a cat person. We now have 3 neighbors involved, please say an extra prayer for Cleo and the lost cat so we can reunite them with their family that lives many miles away.

Keep your passengers safe, we rely on you.
Enjoy your week, take care.

Sleeping Beauty takes a tumble...

My heart sunk when I saw Buster come flying off the deck steps, taking a nose dive and landed hard. Doing yard work and Casey, the blonde lab mix neighbor dog, was running the perimeter of the fence. I dropped the weed eater and went straight to Buster scooting the dogs inside.

Casey leaves his yard as soon as his family drives away. He scopes out the area doing his business of sorts in each yard except for Sam & Jacob's. Sam and Jacob are mother/son beautiful Irish Setters. They warned him many time's prior to the day Casey climbed their fence and got in. I feared for his life and quickly called Casey's house with his Dad answering the phone to get him before something tragic could happen. It seemed forever for his Dad to walk down the hill. To this day, Casey keeps his distance but has gone after other dogs including Buster leaving him limping for several days.

Casey doesn't know his own strength. He had chewed his way out of his leash and kennel one morning. If he had a collar on, he didn't have his tags. He simply jumped our fence one early morning we were out, the sun hadn't risen yet when all of a sudden this big dog is in front of me chasing the dogs like chickens. My heart raced. A morning I won't forget and why I keep an eye on my kids and scan the area when we are out.

Keep your eye's out for predators of sorts and a close eye on your own.
Take care friends.

Sleeping Beauty returns...

Testing the water leaving a box off a favorite chair of Buster's, he didn't flinch, he rested on the floor. As we readied for bed, I heard the soft touch to a rocking chair and new that he had jumped up and was settling in. I smiled, before heading to bed I walked to him, giving him a hug wished him good dreams and a restful sleep.

Yet now as we update, he lays on the floor, not the chair and Carlee under the desk at my feet. Like most people, they like to lay up against something or someone. Pack animals, we're a good pack.

Crazy Daze was crazy, refreshing and lacking any breeze for the start. At 93 degrees, the warm breeze that picked up was comforting as we finally had shade from our tent tops. Hot days zap me and when I return home, unpack our treats, I'm useless for the rest of the day. So today, Happy August, we have tons of stuff to catch up on, we'd better get crackin'.


Enjoy your day, its been 4 weeks that Buster had to restrain from jumping and he rested well, so well, we needed to coax him out of the chair this morning. Easing into his new found freedom, we'll still keep an eye on him and I see a ride in his near future.
Take care friends.

Giants...

We sprayed for grasshoppers last night, our 2nd spraying this Summer. We covered a large area, no wind, perfect! Over the course of the day we've seen a few die-hard hoppers and a large hopper climbs the window screen, from my view it looks as if it is crawling up the neighbor's house. A horror flick indeed. From what I learned this weekend, the well-known spray I use will last as long as the next rain appears. It doesn't say that on the bottle, but an older gentleman I visit with at the market has much experience and I trust his word.

We baked all day and taking the night off to spend time with the kids. The air continues to run until the oven cools down. Looking forward to a good night's rest, this week will be hot, keep an eye on your pets and enjoy your week.

Take care.

Customer comments.. dog and human

We enjoy people stopping by telling us "Our dogs will only eat your treats!"; "Your treats saved my dogs life, we've spent alot of money at the vet and your treats was all he'd eat." or "We don't buy treats at the store anymore." or "I have my granddogs this weekend and heard your treats are great, so here we are!"

If you want live references, just bring down your dog, we have samples for both of you. I can also provide names of humans that have purchased our treats and keep coming back, bringing their friends or telling them about us.

Bringing to market today, the few bags we had left in our inventory, we came home with more purchases from other vendors than treats. If we want to start baking early Sunday morning, we'd better head for bed.

Take care and thanks for stopping by the market, remember we deliver locally and ship out. Til next week at Crazy Day's.

Can you see me?

Buster has had quite a month, the last few days we had wondered if he could see us. He would react to sounds, but seemed lost once outside and around the steps to the ground. We continue to pick him up and keep the boxes in the chairs.

A friend stopped by the market today asking how this all began. The vet said like a person, a dog can twist wrong. I had called the vet shortly after I gave the last dose of flea/tick repellent. Just after the 4th I called and gave her symptoms asking if it could be the repellent, a packet a step up from his weight. Was it to potent? I didn't notice in May, but it was so hot, both dogs were sluggish. The vet also mentioned that Buster was walking on the toes of his back feet, she asked if he was having problems pooping or lifting his leg which are all classic symptoms of back problems. He was poopin fine but did notice his squatting several times. My heart sunk. Is there a connection with flea/tick repellent? The vet said our next dose will be that of his weight.

He's had swelling in his back haunches, but noticed today that is better. He most likely hasn't slept well for 3 weeks because his favorite chair is not in his reach. We continue to get up in the night to check on him, tell him we love him, we'll see him in the morning and if he needs anything we are close by. Looking into his big brown eyes, we hope he continues to see us too, we pray over him and Carlee keeps an eye on him while we're at work. Buster is 9, a long life ahead of him in good health, that's our prayer. That's our prayer for all of us and all of you.

A hunting we will go...

Carlee and I have a nightly ritual of hunting grasshoppers. We take our trusty trowel, walk the fence line and as we hit'm Carlee catches them. It amazes me, we can smash them with insides out and they still hop 14 times. Walking the perimeter of the house, we bag about 50. As the wind sits still for about a 1/2 hour, we'll spray again. Our ferns and hosta look ragged and they are even eating the needles off our pine trees (Peter, Paul and Mary and the Mama's and Papa's). Yes, we do name most things, we talk, they listen, we water, they grow. Life.

Happened upon a link the other day, God and Dog, if it doesn't highlight here, cut and paste into the search box, it is a wonderful 1:58 seconds long and we wanted to share. http://www.care2.com/greenliving/our-pets-as-spiritual-teachers.html

On that note, two dogs lay closeby dozing and I think the grass is barely moving. Must take advantage and load the sprayer. Take care.

Juice, grasshopper juice...

Last year the hoppers were so thick, each step across the prairie the ground moved. Nasty, plain nasty. This year it is becoming the same, we cannot drive in off the highway with windows down or we are bombarded by jumping and flying creatures. They seem to have extra sticktuitiveness in their feet. They can ride on the windshield up to 55 miles per hour, what does that tell ya? We're bringing them into town!!!

Last year Carlee ate many, to many I believe, as this year she is simply chewing until the juice is gone and leaves them behind for us to view. Mangled and unsure what the first few were.

Catching up with mowing last night in the deep heat of 95, not a lick of wind, checking on the kids, panting, smiling and it was time for water for all of us. Most fortunate we finished last night as the humidity was high already at 6am and will continue. On that note, stay cool, keep your dogs and all animals cool with plenty of water and shade if outside.

We'll be at the farmer's market next weekend, stop by and say hi.
Take care.

Slow down you're moving to fast...

Buster has been having some issues with his eyesight and judging distance, he yelped out in pain the other night that woke us in an instant and our hearts nearly lept out of our chests. Dashing to see the problem, he had simply moved from one spot on the floor to the next and maybe stretched in between. Friday the vet visited, after our description she said that he has a disc in his back that is in need of extra care.

For several weeks we are to keep him from jumping, getting overly excited and quiet, ideally, kenneling him during the day is the key, but the stress would be overwhelming. We have placed boxes in all the chairs and lift him down the deck stairs. We've been doing so for about a week, the vet confirmed...good! Last night we slept on the living room floor, both dogs very near. Buster was so close, he was touching my nose, sharing my pillow. He cried a few times in the night, we aren't giving him anything at this time, feeling the pain will remind him to slow down and less running outside. He loves to chase big trucks we are more aware and put him inside. If we simply allowed him to do what he wanted, the disc could cut his spinal cord paralyzing him. We're not going to let that happen, we will work diligently to keep boxes in chairs and lead him on a leash outside. Summer is such a great chasing season, but we want him around for a LOT more seasons for many more years.

Extra prayer sent his way would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks.
Buster's Mom.

Haircuts...

Only trimming in the past around their faces, it was indeed time for a haircut. Not planning in advance to make an appointment, so I said, "lets cut your hair" out we went and surprisingly enough, they stood relatively still. Talking and singing the ABC song helps. Mounds of hair dropped at their feet and though it's not professionally done, we did very well. They continue to pant excessively, which spurred the haircuts, but we can even out hair this afternoon. My brother is a Barber, but pretty sure they wouldn't sit still for a buzz sound, we just used fsissor scissors, no sound with exception of boats and their pickups racing to the river to cool down.

No crying, just happy kids, panting, racing to bark at the next passing diesel vehicle. Cold water and a treat, gosh, can these dog's lives get any better today!!!

Pamper your dogs, from just a pat on the head to a treat, love them much for they certainly do love their humans.

Enjoy your week.

Home is where the heart is...

So our idea was to get a jump start on sanding and staining our home the past few days, but the wind had other plans. Had we held up a brush full of stain, it may have well stained the neighbor's home and I'm sure they wouldn't have liked the splattered look. We did sand the window frames and corner ends where marble sized hail introduced itself to our home one stormy night.

We have kept busy, as there is always something to do on a home and yard. The dogs love being out, but didn't enjoy the gusty winds, is there a raise of hands that did?!

We will enjoy the comforts of home this weekend as we have for the past 10. I baked 13 dozen cookies, 10 years ago July 4th and came out to watch the fireworks on my floor boards; driving "home" to a rented effeciency trying to sleep only to wake early awaiting friends with faith and muscles to raise our home.


We are truly blessed.
Safety to you this weekend, keep your animals close and
help those that need our attention.

That look...

So they look as if they have been riding with their heads out the window of a speeding car, yet they haven't stepped off the deck. The smells they must smell in these winds that travel miles to get to our place and pass through. I've read where a dog can breath in 100's of smells and individually pick them out, that is amazing!

What also amazes me is they can run through the yard and not once step on doo, but get human feet to walk across the yard to the gate and instantly a waft of doo rises. It's like tar, ya can't scrape the shoe across the grass expecting great things, it's in every crevice of the shoe bottom and it's nasty.

We have already sprayed Sevin around our perimeter and flower areas for the ever growing population of grasshoppers. I wonder if they aren't immune as we'll be spraying again soon and it may be another long Summer. Carlee, our hunter, pounces on them like a cat. I'm hoping the wind for the next several days blows them away, we don't wish them on anyone, but they need to go.

This wind drinks the water right out of the flowers, soon we'll go out and water what Buster hasn't covered. Stay cool, keep your pets shaded and watch for other dogs that might need help. Not all dogs are fortunate, it's up to us to help when other's won't.

Take care.

Lightning rods...

The first storm passed through about 7:15am, we had packed our vehicle ready for the Farmer's Market. Driving into town, clouds had gathered and unloading carrying rebar I said, "Nothing like carrying lightning rods in a thunderstorm." The light show started shortly thereafter. There's something about lightning under a metal tent top, with a metal chair and table. We wait for storms at home, but I just couldn't make myself stand underneath the tent, I went around the corner of a store front and stood under their metal awning moving slowly towards their door.

People asked if we weren't concerned about the weather, because they were. We nodded like bobbleheads. Soon the storm had passed and people were popping out of cars to purchase vendor products of leafy greens, artisan breads, grass fed beef and dog treats. The Saturday mornings are similar to family gatherings, smiles, samples and in good company.

Once again the rumblin is heard, the dogs lay close by and yard work is at a loss for the day. Time to close, stay safe and keep your dogs close.

Early morning...

Our morning began about 2am, Buster came in to let me know that he was about to be sick. Almost nothing wakes me quicker and moves me faster than a wretching dog, scooping him up and dashing him to the wood floor, it's just so much easier to clean than carpet.

I know I've mentioned it before, but the dogs just know when it's the weekend. Yes, I do think they can count and even tell time, we haven't used the wake up radio in months. Buster had a hankering for new grass, found some seeding buffalo and sampled and sampled and sampled a bit more.

We should be outside, but Sunday morning's are ours, we make a good wholesome breakfast (whole wheat/flax pancakes) have coffee on the deck and watch Sunday Morning with Charles narrating to us.

I purchased a lovely goat soap from Dakotagoats yesterday at the Farmer's Market and it is wonderful. Each time I stopped for a quick break from mowing yesterday, I felt I needed to wash my hands just to use it, it is silky smooth and you need to purchase your own bar or bars, give to your friends. Deb will tell you all about it, the minerals, vitamins and she has samples, to smell and use.

Clouds and blue sky greet our day, little wind blowing our prairie grass and it's time for a r-i-d-e (did I mention they can spell too) as soon as I touch the closet door, they act like pups. On that note, enjoy today, get out in it and spend time with your family.

Off we go!

Hunker down...

If it was possible for the dogs to get any closer to a human body during the hailstorm, they would've been behind us. Their frantic shaking shook them nearly off the floor and into laps. Marble sized hail did minimal damage to our home, the major hit were screen's on SW window's and of course the logs of our cabin look like that of a golf ball intensified.

Hearing the last ping's of hail, dashing outside to see the size, it lined the bottom of our fence and indeed we found marbles of ice and a beautiful rainbow stretched across a dark blue sky, very vibrant and then in an instant lightning scrittered across the entire middle, I grabbed Buster and back inside we went.

We've just closed all our windows as the temp inside is the same as out. Tomorrow we'll bake treats and they'll be ready for next week's farmer's market. Praying for better weather next week, the sun certainly would be nice to see.

Enjoy your week!

Storm brewing...

Our next rain shower is about to cross the river. We cannot see river water from where we live, but we do see the first storms that come across and we can see rain falling from the clouds knowing it'll soon be here. Putting away shovels for the time being of transplanting flowers until tonite or early morning. The dogs have been napping in the sun, on the deck feeling the breeze in "surround". One of their favorite things to do besides being so interested while we pot plants or cut wood for fixing gates.

Our Memorial Day flowers line our sidewalk and Buster loves smelling flowers, I've not known a dog to just smell and not taste. Trying to catch on film, I cannot seem to be in the right place at the right time. Vendoring at the Farmer's Market this morning, thankful the heavy rains had passed, but the wind made up for it. Saw many smiling, familiar and laughing faces. The market for us is a Saturday morning family, we miss it when we're not there, but our home will be a bit more comfy come Winter.

Look up, enjoy the sun, blue skies and scattered clouds. Besides, you won't see the shadows of a long day either. Take care, enjoy life!

Array of flowers...

Few travelers take the back roads to see the land or small towns dotted along the way, they will miss the array of flowers and flags placed on or near headstones in cemetary's. For those of us that do take those roads and witness the beauty of the flowers and flags are reminded of the weekend and how it is indeed celebrated with programs and 21-gun salute's heard from afar. We traveled hours, as we do each year, placing flowers, meet with family, eat lunch and see friends we haven't seen in some time.

We'll retrieve our flowers again soon, the dogs will be happy for the ride, new sights, sounds and smells and maybe even nap on a warm pillow. Until then, travel out of the way in your Summer journey's, the prairie grass is tall, beautiful and waves gracefully.

Safe travels, take your dogs for a ride and enjoy your outings.

Bowdle..

Buster is from Bowdle and our family lived in Bowdle for 30+ years, storms came and went but nothing like what traveled a course like last weekend. If you haven't heard about the tornado's that lifted farms away, google Bowdle SD tornado and it will send you to several sights with pictures and video's. The narration is freightening.

Potting pretty flowers this week to travel them north to Bowdle, placing them at parents, grand and greatgrand parents, aunts and uncles that served in WWII. We walk, visit and remember, praying over friends that have passed this year. We will help friends where we can and then drive back to a home that still stands on a solid foundation. Counting our blessings. With the EF4 catagory tornado that swept through, nothing could stand against it. Life won out, no injury's to people and we prayed for the animals too.

It's going to be hot, if your dog is out, they'll need shade, plenty of water and shelter from storms.
Safe travels.

It's a jungle out there!

Sun, water and humidity make grass grow like weeds, very quick and very tall. Whisps of white could be seen earlier, wading through but no worries now, we mowed early Sunday morning.

Again they roll, stretch on their backs feel the cool of it all. Along with the fresh mowed grass and blossomed flowering crab, the house smell wonderful as the windows are open and Carlee is napping, Buster is out on patrol. Prairie grass is beautiful blowing in the breeze.

We're baking and filling dog treat orders today and wanted to drop a note, get out and go for a walk with your dogs, stretch first. If we all stretched like our dogs, we'd be more flexible and limber. Give it a try, it looks funny, but it is amazing!

Enjoy our week!

Blog list...

New to our blog?! There is a search box to the left that will direct you to posts with words you'll find in our blog, such as treats, Daisy, comments. You get the idea.

The creation of a blog list we like to visit is placed at the bottom, more will be added as time moves along.

Slow start at our home today, but much to do as planting flowers, baking treats from orders we received yesterday at the Farmer's Market. "We have BIG dogs, can you make BIG bags and you deliver?!" Absolutely! "My husband keeps a bag of your treats in his pickup, do they get to the dogs honey?!" Always fun to hear comments and stories.

Enjoy your week!

20%...

Pierre's chance of rain today was 20% and it started about 10:30am when people were walking through the opening day of the Capital City Farmer's Market. Tent tops are close enough together where people can step from one vendor to the next. We had wonderful raw honey and baked goods today along with new plants, grass fed beef and dog treats.

I had promised the dogs I'd be home right after the Market and they could spend the day lounging on the deck in the sun. No lounging, outside in spurts, restless in the house. There are plenty of projects to keep busy in the house, but like them, we like being out as there is much to do outside as well. Thankful we mowed the kennel, the grass was beyond touching their tummy's and they didn't like it, fetch is fun again and exercise is good for all of us.

The wind has come up, a chill in the house and I'm thinking jammies.
Enjoy Sunday, sunshine and safe travels.

Bushed...

Today is a great day for a nap, especially after a weekend with a lot of barking dogs, mainly the same size as ours. They saw a beagle, bulldog, basset hounds, great dane and a jack russell. We don't kennel very often, a last minute item for the humans to travel.

They faired well, Carlee sick a few times from anxiety and Buster looks older, they lay close by sleeping and will do so for the day. Just as well, the weather outside is chilly and rainy, snuggled into warm blankets near heat vents that are dormant.

On that note, our warm hearts need warm hands to hug a warm coffee mug. Enjoy your day, keep your dog close, warm and dry.

Bab's Bites 'n Bones will be at the Farmer's Market, opening this coming Saturday, May 15th at the same location last year at the corner of Sioux Ave and Pierre St. in Pierre SD. The sun will shine and we welcome your smiles.

Night and Day...

Checking on Buster this morning, he had found a new friend, it was a miller. Left over from last Fall, to early for Spring?! On the deck, Buster was following him around, sniffing, curious, checking him out. If Carlee was out with Buster, she would've called the "new friend" a protein snack and would've looked for another.

Night and day, they often compliment each other but it depends on the situation.
Napping today out of the gusty winds, asking them to help out around the house, put away toys, wash dishes. They do "mow" with the new sweet grass, they are like little sheep. Grass isn't digested, Carlee tolerates much better than Buster, she's taller, sleaker and head's straight for it once out of the chute.

Night and Day are resting on fresh smelling newly washed blankets, time to do dishes. There is a story out there about a dog named Coldwater, but us humans do the dishes, we do use soap and we dry dishes with a fresh towel. If you wash dishes differently at your home and it works for you, so be it.

Enjoy your week.

It's May Day!

Happy May Day, this day brings back fond memories of childhood delivering MayDay baskets to friends. Some of my best childhood memories include resting and walking with one of my best friends and love, Bowser. The neighbor collie that rested on the shady side of our house. I could tell him anything not unlike the two critters that live in our home now. They alone see emotion run amuck and when their emotions run amuck they turn to us.

It's only fitting they turn to us, blankets, under beds and chairs bring comfort, but nothing like the arms and lap of their humans, telling stories and sing soothing songs. A wealth of comfort. Wind, thunder and light that shoots outside the windows at night unhinge the dogs most.

Find comfort in what you do best and then share with your critters when they need to turn to you. Calm fears, reassure and trust continues to develop.

Take care and enjoy your week...stay safe.

Dark blue skies...

Buster, our Westie, sits outside after the wind has died down and the rain has stopped, for the moment. Dark blue skies are making their way back, with the sun shining opposite, the green grass and home colors deepen and all is beautiful.

Learning so much from the kids and I think vice versa, we have enjoyed the Saturday nap, getting little done, but enjoying the time at home, under a blanket listening to the wind whip the rain against the cabin. There wasn't any other place we had wanted to be. Dry, good home and loved.

Our work is cut out tomorrow planting tree's, getting tomato baskets indoors ready waiting for last frosts end of May and I'm thinking a nap.

Bringing home several bags of treats from the Zonta Fair from last weekend, we'll begin baking again soon, don't fret, call if you run low, we always have treats on hand and will deliver if you are Pierre/Fort Pierre, SD or ship if you're not.
Remember, it's all about love for the dogs. Take care.

New location...

Hello friends,

If you saw us this weekend, you saw us at the Pierre Mall for the Zonta Spring Craft Fair. One gal stopped and said, "As I run out, I find you at another Fair, my dogs just love your treats!" another gal said, "My in-laws dog won't eat any other treats but yours!" One more gal said, "We got a dog and now we can buy your treats!" Eddie is a lucky dog. A good fair and even better as my sister joins the fun. We visit, eat, laugh and talk with friends.

At fairs end, the table, chairs and boxes seem much heavier carrying back to pack the vehicle then when we set up. Home again, the dogs are jumpin' at the door, toy in mouth ready for fetch and hugs. Buster just crawls up my arms for a hug and lays his head on my shoulder. I missed you to, son.

The fairs are fun, but drawing so much attention away from home and my own hurts my heart. So, on that note, it's time to snuggle with the kids. Thank you for your continued patronage, stories and emergency calls for treats. It all for the love of two great dogs and yours too!

Enjoy your week, see ya soon!

ZaZu makes his debut...

Zazu came to live with us last week, a gentleman helped me load him into the back of Eli. I patted him, welcomed him and said, ZaZu. It stuck and ZaZu (zaw zoo) is also the know-it-all toucan from the Lion King, if you remember that wonderful animated Disney movie.

Taking him out for a walk today, he's heavier than I would've expected. Zazu is our new push mower. The kids were afraid of it as they should be, we've had a reel mower for several years and it got us through for the time we used. Strict directions on sharpening the blades, finding someone to do so, nill. Our grass is trimmed to a new level, waiting for the rain that will come early next week. We also trimmed a couple rows out in the field waiting for our Arbor Day tree's to arrive so we can just dig and plant.

We went for a ride this morning and walked around the yard, the rhubarb is peeking out and Buster watered to help it along. Iris' are coming as is the sedum. Spring is wonderful and we packed as much outside work into our day as we could. Tomorrow is our last BIG push for baking treats for the upcoming Zonta Spring Fair,
April 18-19th. Bab's will be there, look for us.

Time to bag what we have and do inside stuff even though my heart long's to be outside. Aw, Buster is calling..enjoy the rest of your weekend. We will!

The BIG BROWN TRUCK...

They don't even need to see it, none of them do, just to hear the boom, boom, boom of the BIG BROWN TRUCK slowing down to make the turn and they go nuts...all the dogs in all the yards run back and forth praying that it'll stop at their house. Tonite it stopped at our's! The UPS man backed into the driveway, jumped out of the truck with an itty bitty box. We couldn't hear each other talk until he was close and I said, "My dogs love your truck, do all dogs love your truck?!" He laughed, shook his head and said, "I'm popular wherever I go!"

The dogs get so excited they shake right off the ground, wind is chilly from their tails wagging frantically and when the trucks starts back up, he is greeted as well as he drove up. It is a deterrent for package people, if there's visible poo, they leave the package on the outside of the gate. We're not out to scare people, but I must admit their over-excitement did sound scarey to me too. The BIG BROWN TRUCK was our prize tonite and the winner's are dreaming close by.

A Plethora of Spring...

One night this weekend we heard the song of meadowlarks and thunder within minutes of each other raising my arms in Glory letting the Good Lord above know that He seizes to amaze me as I had been waiting for both. He knows all. Today is Easter and we celebrated in the kitchen baking treats and testers testing, it's not an aquired taste as most items taste good to them, but a treat really is a treat!

OMG, they are good when the treats cool from the oven. They taste like unleavened bread, minus the sugar. As the treats bake they smell like bread toasting, so when you are curious about tasting them at our table, this is your inkling. Ingredients you've had before, just not called a dog treat! I've noted that when I walk a few feet away from our booth/table, more people are apt to try them, of course they look around first to see if anyone is watching, taste just a corner of the pea size treat and grab another for later. It makes my heart lighter and widens the smile already present. It's true...our treats are "People Approved".

Wishing you a blessed Spring, we hope to see you at the Zonta Spring Fair, at the Pierre Mall this year. We'll also be at the Farmer's Market often, watch for new location and new vendors.

Take care friends.

Preachin' to the choir...

It's a bit gusty today, it doesn't keep the kids inside, they are out and will stay out until the cows come home or until we yell, "who's hungry?"
Buster is a talker and Carlee mimics. About 15 minutes into his "sermon" do I hear a Hallelujah from Carlee. As if he can hear us walking to the door, it stops. Wait, wait for the humans to walk away...and he starts again. We've caught on, little man! Opening the door he knows, the "service" is over. This isn't a one time thing, it's all day. We are blessed!

Tomorrow is Palm Sunday, the Lenten season hopefully has touched many lives, as we prepare for Easter. Repent. Reflect. Be blessed.

Grandma's eyes...

When I look at Buster, we see big beautiful brown eyes. I know he must've gotten them from his Grandma. She loved Ty, my old b/w border collie and I know she would love these granddogs too. Buster lived down the street from my parents home, I think in Mom's daily walk to the post office she noticed him. Today marks a 5 year anniversary of her passing, I do miss her.

When Carlee came to live with us, we named her after my Mom. Both dogs have middle names, Buster Brown (who lives in a shoe-if you remember that commercial) and Carlee Clara (Mom). I know she smiled from above and continues to do so.

Spring is finally here, however, we celebrated Spring long before the calendar allowed the world to do so. We do Love the longer days and we do Love Spring! We saw two robins flitting across the street one day last week, but we await the song of the meadowlark to make it official. The last of our snow will disappear tomorrow in the warmth of the sun possible drying more than today. Raking our inner yard this weekend and collecting as if 100 geese stopped, but nope, we have healthy 'kids'. As the commercial says,"they are good poopers!"

Enjoy Spring, from sunrise to sunset and everything in between. Take time to look at the blanket of stars at night, listen to the conversation of birds, hear the horses run and the snoring of your tired dogs nearby.

'Til next time, stay safe and be well.

Two new collars...

Which means the dogs have gotten their Spring cuts and on a terrible weather day. Thinking positive 6 weeks ago the weather on March 9, 2010 would be sunny and warmer, it was just the opposite and a real shock to their systems. When picked up later in the day, they were handsome and beautiful, and their energy was zapped. They had spent a half day with another human telling them to be still was difficult and draining.

Waiting to spring our clocks ahead tonite before bed, the extra hour of daylight will certainly be rewarding they look to the sky knowing the yellow round ball is up there somewhere. Changing collars is as exciting as if the leashes were grabbed, they think R-I-D-E (yes, they can spell). With the extra hair gone, the vibrant collars are to big, but on a positive note, they can easily be slipped off at bedtime and they can sleep naked until new ones are purchased, scratching will be much easier.

Our home is on the mend from flu and colds, energy slowly seeps back into our lives and as we go out and quickly in we're also creating paths for the water to flow away from the pond that has created right by our entrance gate. Aw winter thaw, but we LOVE Spring! Everything is new again from air to babies...of all creatures to new bud on tree's. Grass is greening already and everything is waiting for Spring's arrival. We've been looking for our first robin, they are welcome to sit upon our post tops. Carlee is a hunter, bagging a bird last year which we buried with a prayer.

Last night's sunset shown into our home and as I look outside, the sun shines!! It is welcome to draw up our excess water and the kids will be excited to take their first Spring naps on the deck on old rugs. We are giddy with excitement and out we go.

Enjoy Spring!

So we meet again...

Fog was so thick this morning, we really had to keep an eye on the dogs. Both dogs are white, they would simply walk a few feet and disappear. Freaky really. Walking 'round the fence line I'd step on something and then it would move...ah, a dog. Apologizing to the dog, they'd rest their front paws on my leg as if to say, "So, we meet again." Seeing the outline of the stairs, I swept the deck free of frost calling out and then our little whistle. Entering the house, they were so excited to see me and I them.

Running low on broth for treats, we let beef broth simmer many hours and it made the cabin smell wonderful on this chilly day. Litters of pups were turned into the Humane Society this past week, so we gathered what small treats we had and handed them over. The dogs were curious, tilting their heads as to where and what was going on, we said, "there are pup's that need some help and love." As long as we keep a few for ours, we're good. We'll bake again tomorrow.

We wish you warmth and comfort in your homes; we continue to pray for those dogs that wait for their human and that love find them first.

Ordering treats...

We love getting treat orders and we have been baking, it seems our treats leave our oven nearly as soon as we bake them. The treats actually need to dry completely before we can sell, deliver or ship it's what gives them their long shelf life. Nope, they shouldn't have a long shelf life, they are treats and your dog, in moderation, should get them. Do we give ourselves treats? Absolutely, so it goes for the "kids" and granddogs.

Under "We are..." upper left under our sign, is our email address, you will need to cut and paste our email address into your email browser and send. Trying to email us through our profile doesn't work. You can always call and leave a message, we'll call back.

Several humans have told us, "we don't purchase store treats anymore, just Bab's!" and another, "We did a taste test and yours won out, they just sniffed the store brand!"

If you are new to our treats, we have small and medium dog treats in hearty beef and savory chicken. We make our own stock that goes into the treats, they are preservative free and people approved, yes, we have samples for the humans at our fairs...paws down, the treats are good enough for the dogs!

Whatever the weather we are out in it, we all need exercise. If we don't return your phone call, email us. Thanks for thinking of our treats and we are happy to share.

Bab's n kids

Warm lap...

Early morning's of the past week has shown us clear view of the city and then it simply disappears. Fog has been thick and dense lifting only when it wants to. We love fog, it is peaceful, silent and wraps us in a blanket of white. We don't hop in the car to leave the house, we wait until the fog lifts. Life is such a treasure and as we age we have become wiser.

The humans have been entertained by the Olympics and as the dogs have spent much of the weekend out, they have chosen their soft spots close by resting, snoring and dreaming. Many of their sounds and actions are human-like, we're not sure if they are learned from us or we from them. Whatever the story, we smile.

They are great burpers; they love fresh fruits and veggies and well, then there is another sound. Tasting in small increments, they especially like red bell peppers, we learn from foods we eat and we learn from foods we give them in small portions. Eyes water.

Leaving that impression on your mind, Buster waits for a lap, enjoy your week.

Blustery Valentine's Day...

We shouldn't be surprised when the weekend rolls around that the blustery winds and it's friend snow should arrive to stay for a few days. We are however, thankful for the sun to shine no matter it's warmth as it seems to make our hearts lighter.

Winds shifted last night plastering snow and ice on odd sides of the cabin, which melts with the "beating" sun and from the warmth within. Wishing the dogs Happy Valentine's this morning giving them heart shaped treats and for us, heart healthy pancakes and hazelnut coffee, doesn't that just warm ya.

Do you seeing where this is going?! We're all about love, warmth, good hearts and
special treats. We share with many of you that have contacted us since last Fall.

We send hearts and love in return and thanks for thinking of us and your loving animals. Thank you for choosing Bab's Bites 'n Bones and purchasing our preservative free dog treats. February is heart health month, remember you can share the treats with your dog...we are people approved!

From our Hearts to yours,
Stay safe and warm.

Heavy, wet and white...

We're not necessarily talking about the dogs as it is the same description as the new snow that fell so silently last night and continues at this writing. The snow is beautiful and stays put once it lands where it drops, heavy, wet and great for making snowdogs, maybe we'll make a snowman to go along with it.

Long-legged Carlee loves making tracks in the new snow, in similar shapes I doodle on a piece of paper. Buster's tummy hair drags along the new snow and creates a pattern of what the bottom of a sled would create. Different creatures. We've come to realize as a storm is pending, the dogs get irritable and selective hearing is out the window. Yes, they are scolded. No we do not hit them. To relieve stress they each get a rawhide chew at night, only when we are home, when the humans are gone during the day, the rawhide bones are out of reach.

Buster isn't feeling well, his stomach makes sounds as if he swallowed the neighbor's cat, which by the way, is missing. He lays close and the roles of protector are switched. As soon as I move, he'll follow and wind up in my lap. Morning and evening, its become a lovely, warm routine.

A gal from work stumbled me across a blog she follows, check it out:
http://www.goodfortunefarmrefuge.org/beulah.htm you'll need to cut and paste into your browser, it's a good read.

Enjoy the snow, go out and make a snowdog!
'til later

Scratch 'n sniff...

It's a whole new meaning when you watch dogs find the scent that catches their noses.
Outside our fence is a whole new world of scat from bunny's, geese, deer, fox, cats, coyote and of course, a neighbor's dog. Yes, we do have coyote's, I do love to hear their howls in Summertime as we relax on the deck as nightfalls, eerie. I have told a number of people not to leave small animals out at night in the country, coyote's share the night and they do travel in packs. Imagine the terror of their prey, keep your animals safe, it would be a horrible death that you can prevent.

The sky is filled with a beautiful moon the past few nights, take time to watch the skies, it's free and it is amazing. Enjoy!

Stay warm.

Howlin'...

South Dakota weather shouldn't surprise those that are shocked with the swings of the season. The rain that came and froze was very heavy on our fence, the thickness of ice that wrapped itself around power lines and poles was devastating and people will be without power for days if not weeks. Count your blessings, we certainly do and pray for those that lack in the cold temps.

Today the wind howls and it scares our girl, she slinks into a room and lays close by. If we're on the floor she sits as close as possible and an arm is placed around her to assure her safety and whisper, "you are safe". Her thanks is a lick to the nose...ours.

I know it's been said before, but we are most thankful for the longer days. More time for the dogs to be out, check on the fence line repeating their action, covering their domain and Buster writing his name in the fresh snow. He loves being out in the harshest wind, he is also thankful to rush inside when Mom calls.

It bears repeating, protect your animals against the elements. They deserve your best attention. Stay warm.

Bab's

Buster's day...

Today is Buster's birthday, he has lived with us for 4 years and today is 8. Taking two years for his family to let him go and live with us is a blessing. Buster lived down the street from my Mother, tied to a tree with a 20' stretch. Staying with my Mom I'd hear his bark and cry through much of the night which led to my concern and heartbreak. Before leaving town I'd drive by and greet him telling him someday he'd live with us. You may've read our story as our dog treat business was featured in the December 2007 issue of RiverLife.

He has a tender heart and wants to be everyone's friend. He lays close on a warm blanket and has a fully tummy. When his previous family asked me to retrieve him, I was elated. He was in a foot of snow and filthy. I leaned down to pet him and he jumped into my arms. I simply said, "let's go home." With streaming tears, we drove by the cemetary, but my folks already knew I came for their new granddog. On a new fleece blanket and warm vehicle, Buster slept all the way home. For days he would look and wait for someone to come. He did enjoy coming in from the cold and having a warm lap to lay upon. It took several months for training, we found a routine and might I add, he has a very good bladder. I look at him now, tears appear, we are both blessed, he rescued this human.

Carlee rounded out our family, she too lays near the warm floor register. Comfort, it's good for all souls.

Take special care of your animals and they in turn will do the same.

Run, walk and sniffff...

The air is refreshing where we live and it seems fresher out at the Oahe Dam. We found a stretch of road yesterday going for a long awaited walk. They couldn't get out of the car quick enough to start their "tour", they were everywhere. They were everywhere a 20' leash would take them.

From new snow, smells and creatures we enjoyed an afternoon of adventure and fun. They weren't overly excited to get back into the car leaving their paw impressions and tongue wagging excitement on everything, but as the window's opened for their foraging noses, they were tickled and greeted everyone that was coming and going. Last night was well rested, our treat of waking at 7am.

Another beautiful day and 4 minutes of extra daylight in the morning.
Enjoy today and pray for the people of Haiti.

Snow cones...

Buster, with much anticipation, climbed to the peak of our snowbank tonite and was pleasantly surprised...he found a snow cone. Daisy the Daring and Carlee the Courageous had conquered the "mountain" first, leaving their signature mark. Gotta love their curiosity!

Carlee barked and growled at something in the early dark this morning, I couldn't see until I looked towards the sliver of moon and sunrise. A beautiful surprise as multiple deer were walking their way through our landscape. Greeting them, telling them to stay out of Pierre city and wishing them well. They listened intently and lept over the fence. What they must've mumbled to each other as we waved.

Enjoy the warmth of the sun and longer days, Spring is just around the corner.
Wahoo!

Daisy...

We had a visitor the past many days, her name is Daisy and she is a 1 year old basset hound. She is beautiful, loves attention and kept us hoppin' as she has a lot of puppy left in her. She loved treat time and we began to look forward to her nap time. She cried daily when Carlee wouldn't warm up to her. We placed treats in her bag when she left. As she looked out her sister's car window, her big sunken eyes and lack of expression told us, "thanks". She'll be placed on our frig with all of our other friends and we'll see her again soon.

We are thankful for the longer days again, the sun slowly sets and it is nearing 5:30pm. We have scooped and scattered snow the past couple of days, not having near the aches and pains at the beginning of the snow storms.

We understand shedding, but the lint trap from the dryer doesn't seize to amaze me as it is filled, FILLED, to capacity each time I open the dryer door. Imagine what it all looked like when I thru them into the wash. Can this hair be weaved into a sweater?! ha, ha, uck!

From lack of commotion, we napped this afternoon and will sleep well tonite. We wish good dreams, full tummy's and warm beds to yours and to all animals out there waiting.

Bab's Kids

Happy New Year...

It took some doing, but we stayed up until 11pm to watch the ball drop in NYC and dragged ourselves to bed. At 12:21am we were shook awake by multiple blasts and color of fireworks, shattering our deep sleep. Our new year started well as we rolled over, snuggled back into the warmth of blankets and fell back to sleep.

A dusting of snow rested on the deck as we opened our door at 7am. Dancing and sprinting the dogs went wild as if the 6' drift in our run isn't enough for them to play King of the Mountain. We are blessed with multiple drifts of fluffy white snow like many other's across the prairie. With the good hearts of neighbors diligently working through the drifts on the road, we simply drove out, the snow blew around us as there isn't anything to hold it back with exception of our taller prairie grass. It saves us.

Here's wishing you safety, warmth and good care to your animals and those waiting for a human of their own.

Cheers!