'Twas the night before Christmas...

and all through the house, not a white fuzzy creature was stirring, oh, one moved. The stockings are hung on the fireplace with care, in hopes their not ripped down because treats are attached. Well, that doesn't rhyme, but that's what is happening at our place. We're taking care of Emily, the neighbor's cat this weekend she is at her house, not to have her feel left out, we took over a rolling jingle ball for a present.
Am sure Dakota and Bridger, the neighbor dogs, wish for Christmas to be let out and run, roll, jump and play all day in their half-acre run. We keep them warm in our prayers and will sing Silent Night to them before we turn out our lights. Got to meet them earlier this week, they are as beautiful as I imagined and shhhh! snuck over a couple treats. A small blessing added to their stressful days.

I just heard a sigh, I believe that's means it's time for a hug and a dance around the floor, they just don't know it yet. Merry Christmas, enjoy your family's and safe travels. Until next time, God bless friends!

In the kitchen...

...is where everyone eventually ends up before sitting down on the holidays or any gathering. Growing up there was always tasting, testing and something running down someones chin. Mom's kitchen was small, but it certainly held the warmth fitting everyone it in. Some leaned up against the cabinets with something to drink, others stirring gravy or whipping potatoes, eventually plates were carried to the table, everyone sat where thankful prayer was always present as it is today.

We had a wondrous Thanksgiving Day, from food to blessings, prayers of thanksgiving and good will to others. We planned a long walk and ride spending the afternoon outside playing and family fun. There wasn't anywhere else we wanted or needed to be, but with each other. It's not often we take a whole day off, we gathered, ate and slept well at night. We are blessed! We asked for a blessing to friends, their "kids" and to those that are less fortunate, we simply pray for warmth, food, water and good home to rest. Thank you friends for your blessings to us, we keep you close! Amen.

First flakes...

Walking out the door at 6:30 this morning, I caught the glimpse of the first flakes. It was chilly this morning, but could it have been real. Saying a quick prayer, like I do, they disappeared as quick as they came. We're not ready for flakes or anything accumulative, with that being said, though it's nice to have snow on Christmas Eve, my heart is telling me, it's okay to have nice weather until closer to Spring. By then, we'd be on the downslide of Winter.

Plans this year are to cover Jack, he'll be 16 in January after all these years sitting under the stars, perhaps it's time for another blanket to draw up and over til Spring. He does us well getting good gas mileage, someday a garage.

Baking treats of shapes and ornaments for Christmas, St. Nickolas helpers will be selling handmade Christmas stockings at the Zonta Fair, bone-shaped, heavy, durable and oh, so cute. Our treats fit nicely inside. Proceeds will go to a no kill shelter in Utah that provides homes for disabled and abused animals. Every animal deserves a little extra at Christmas and we hope this'll give warmth of some kind from human hearts. On that note, hug your animals. Stay warm friends.

Dust Buster...

You know the little vacuum cleaners that get all the stuff that big vacuum cleaners do, well Buster cuts corners to the nth of an inch and has been tipping the swiffer which creates the cleaned up stuff to replenish the floor. He runs, he collects, he needs dusting. In kind, he is our own, dust buster.

After each out at night they are sure it's "treat time" both sit near the cupboard where the treats await. These 4-sided treats actually help clean their teeth, helpers to our own treats. As a reminder the dogs will find someone and herd them to the kitchen about 8:30. It doesn't matter where you are, they will find you, they split up to find you, it's uncanny.

We are removing the floor fans and replacing them with warm rugs and adding warmer blankets. We still have items to do outside according to the tv weather guy, we only have a few weeks left. They can predict, but a much higher power has a handle on things and He'll give us the forecast. So my request is at least thru Thanksgiving and we will be thankful. Stay warm and hope to see you out and about.
Take care friends.

Early birds...

Early birds sported the length of the Pierre Mall Saturday morning, each inside blue corners setting up their crafts and waiting for the lookers and buyers to arrive. Another good day, set up close to neighbors that became friends throughout the day.
Each vendor provided a $25 door prize to the person drawn from their collection. Over 50 people signed up for our door prize of dog treats, 4 bags. Winner drawn lives in Pierre and just tickled!

Sunday was no different, in the car early and on the road, this time round the kids were with me and they were giddy with excitement. All I had to say was, "let's go!"
Opening the drivers window to drop off mail, they deeply inhale, eyes closed as if smelling the best thing in the world.

Today we baked to fill orders that are due at week's end, managed yard work, draining hoses, make a comfort casserole for supper and ya know, I'm thinking about taking the rest of the night off, no, that's incorrect we have laundry. Time to stop thinking and starting doing. Enjoy your week friends!

Buster...before and after!

Wisp of fog...

Fog near our prairie follows the river and it is stunning. Billowy fog lifts, rises and hovers over the city with twinkling lights underneath guiding people safely around city streets. Early this morning the dogs ran across the kennel area and tip toe'd back, chuckling not understanding what was under their feet until daylight eeked in and displayed frost, crunchy grass and windows to scrape.

This cool has brought out an extra blanket on the bed and flannel pillowcases. Even the dogs, with their heavy coats, like a light blanket across their back. They sleep deep and snore soundly.

We continue to look for the lost dog that crossed our path many weeks ago, but he has been spotted in town near a business. I called asking if he had been caught, I told our story and they would certainly try and catch, they have treats. So our prayer is that he walk in a building or near a dog loving person. Let that person gently wrap him in a warm blanket, feed, water and let him sleep without fear in a warm place. He certainly deserves it, he's been on the run a long time. Keep your eyes open and prayers for his safety. Until we see you again, stay safe.

Quest...

Quite recently I have involved people in a quest that may not want to take part until they hear the story of a little dog lost, running along the highway, looking for his humans. Calling a host of phone numbers up and down the route he may be searching, no one has seen him, but now that they have heard the description maybe they'll look too. The rainbow I saw tonite walking in the rain gives me a sign of hope. A friend of mine emailed last Friday describing the exact same dog I saw several weeks ago, she walked pastures and talked with him to no avail she said, "he's wet, scared and quick like a fox".

Authorities of all kinds have been contacted, the paper even placed in Lost & Found, radio put over the airwaves, in hopes that the owner see's and hears and comes looking and calling. There is the other side to that coin but he has his collar and tags, trust will be an issue and when I talk to him I simply ask to follow me, follow me home.

I know there are many dogs out there, my neighbor told me of another that comes close by, we'll keep an eye for him too, he's covered with sand burrs. So, help from where you are, pray for these little guys and help guide them home.
Thanks and keep your critters close.

You are not allowed here...

I will be pulling you from your shallow roots and disposing of you, this is your only warning, tell your friends. Sand burr plants have sprouted and spread, this is the warning I give them, I believe I have removed them from our mowed area and have sprayed them in the ditches. As soon as the first frost appears they will disappear. I'm not looking forward to any frost, as we continue to check off "todo" jobs from our list.
Working on kennel gates leaves the dogs inside, but I am happy to report our front gates are built and set, 11" higher, rustic looking and blend in well with our cabin. The bubble on our level swims neatly to the middle for both.
One of the first tree's we planted, Babe, has grown a least 18" this year topping him off at least 20' high. It must be the hugs I freely give and visiting when I'm close. Babe is a seedless cottonwood and has outlived his 4 siblings. Bareroot tree's seem to work best for us, they hold to the ground beneath as the howling winds bend them, he is pretty sturdy.
We received a letter in the mail yesterday asking Bab's Bites 'n Bones to apply for a booth for the upcoming SD Governor's Conference of Tourism. When chosen, the conference is quite expensive for the 2-day run. A minimum of 500 whole and retailers come from across South Dakota. Other expenses would be limited since the conference is here in Pierre. Quite an honor. We worked on the app today, a little lightheaded. It's a good feeling.
Stay safe friends.

We're expanding...

One would think by another body and it is in feet, however, we are expanding the run for the kids. It'll give them shade and they can be almost with me when working in the yard, just a thin wire away. Just not sure how the snow will fill in or if it'll blow through, I do know that Casey, the BIG blonde lab won't be able to jump in.

I was talking with Mr. Ripley this past weekend at the market about harvest and how it's coming along in his part of the country. Wheat is near down. My Dad was a grain elevator manager all of my life and most all of his. Harvest was busy, we rarely saw him. Mom would make hot meals and deliver, he'd give us a hug and a quick hello.
His days began before sunrise and often ended well into the night.

Our family had a 1 acre garden with other families growing potatoes, zuchini, cucumbers, muskmelon and watermelons. The watermelons would crack from ripeness and the taste would drip down our chin's. My brother and I were the only kids, we worked hard and were good pickers. The harvest was plenty, laborers were few...

One thing was missing, a dog. Well, they're not missing anymore.
Enjoy your week friends!

Shorter days...already!

August brings shorter days and everything we want to do on weekends is packed tightly, at times little of each gets done or nothing of something does. It makes sense, it's not just the heat.

The morning is no longer lit at 6am and it is dark enough at 8:30pm to be hammering outside without a flashlight. It's difficult enough with small nails much less holding a flashlight too. Our list continues to grow, but baking is almost always a given and tomorrow early we begin. The kids are waiting for a ride and a walk, we'll see where that leads and what the humidity brings.

What have you been doing? We hear from you on Market days or in passing on the street, a wave or hello. Life is busy, slow down if you can, enjoy time for you and your critters. Buster can be in any part of the house he wants, I look down and he rests easy. Always close.
Enjoy your week friends, cooler temps are coming.

Spokesgoat...

Today, on this very hot day, was Crazy Days and the Farmer's Market was invited. We lined our tent tops through the middle of the street and braved the heat. One of my neighbor's was Star Bright and her Mom. I did enjoy their company and Starbright enjoyed our treats, among all the other treats she received. Many children held out their hands to feed her cracked corn and molasses. Isn't she beautiful!

Our day started at 5:30am and we wouldn't be able to do long days away without help from friends. Mid-afternoon we soon packed up our tents and belongings heading to cooler air in vehicles. The trip home seemed long, but the love of the dogs burst out the door and greetings of hyper-hello's was all around.

Leaving the larger items in the vehicle until cooler temps of Sunday morning, we are in cool air and having cool drinks. The air now stagnant outside, the flowers have had their fill of cool water. It'll be early to bed and as always, early to rise.

Stay cool friends and your critters too!

Bake, bake, bake

With the weather hot and humid outside, who in their right mind would be baking all day inside...well, I know some people have questioned us before, we baked all day. We started early and stopped about 4:30, whew! Whilted we were.

With Crazy Dayz stairing at us in the face for next week, inventory is being replenished. We always have something for all size dogs from our bone shapes to our "Scene South Dakota?!" Of course, if the dogs don't like'm, people can eat them too! We share at home too, the other night after mowing, I brought a pint of cold water to the deck and let Carlee out. Watering the flowers I turned around to the tune of lapping water, Carlee was sharing. That's my girl!

The weekend has flown by, with a little help with the wind, but the sunrise and
sunsets have been spectacular in color, we're thinking from fires where the half rainbow floated from I'm not sure, but a surprise indeed. On that note, we await for tonite's sunset then early to bed and early to rise.

Enjoy your week friends and stay cool! Your critters too!

Four more years...

Four more years, how many times do we hear that during campaigns?! We're not running for public office, our Trademark was do this year, which gives us another 4 more years bringing you and your dogs treats to the highest standard we know, that's just good business! With love from our dogs to yurs!

As we all feel the sweltering heat around us, the market today was often stagnant. Each vendor was placing cold packs of sorts around necks, back of neck and onto hot faces. The crowds came in spurts, but all did well and we eagerly waited the last 10 minutes to 1pm, the heat and humidity was doing us in. A bank thermometer was filled with a 100 degree temperature and we are thankful for cool air.

Not all people or animals are as lucky, in hopes that neighbors watch over, help where needed and pray for cooler temps.
Stay cool friends.

She is 6 today!

Today is Carlee's birthday, it was sweltering hot when she was rescued from the harsh sun and surrounding elements, but if I look for her now she's most likely laying at the foot of the bed looking into the hallway in case I walk by she can follow. My shadow and forewarner (it's a word now). She has surprised us with 2 howls today, a mournful sound, but I do like it.

Using Grandma's recipe, a rhubarb cake was made. It's the heavy cream that makes it so moist. Their share was small and they liked it, a lot, scouring the floor for crumbs. Taking the cake to work, with her photo in a birthday frame and sharing with my co-workers and many stopped by wishing her a wonderful day.


Thank you to friends for wishing Carlee the same, her golden birthday. I truly believe she likes our family, friends, home and blessings. Those are good presents.
Enjoy your week and stay cool.

Independence Day...

Celebration began early this morning at the cabin, Buster slept until 6:35am, then it was up and at'm. Sleeping past 6am on a holiday/weekend is something to celebrate for this human. The kids have been lazy, other than our early Sunday morning mile walk, they lay and fetch isn't touched.

Popping of fireworks, is a sound of storms to them, they stick close as if ankle weights. Their exercise is laying in front of the fan and stretching. Yesterday's market was wonderful, saw many friends including Buddy and Angus. Buddy is a Great Dane mix, reminds me of a big Carl from the children's books and Angus is a growing up but not out pup, happy to roll over for a tummy rub and shake your hand. Just a happy boy!


Last week on our outing, the dogs did well at a country kennel and I caught a quick pix of fireworks, I forgot how loud they are when we were showered upon after their quick colorful display. Enjoy your 4th of July, celebrate and be safe!

My Gardener and waterer...gentle spirit!

Thirty years...

I was fortunate to re-acquaint with 100's of people Saturday evening at the Bowdle Quasicenntennial all-school reunion. I hadn't seen many of those familiar faces in a long time, we have aged well! What a celebration! Many smiling, laughing faces, many with children, grandchildren and one of our favorites...dogs!

Many of our business cards found their way into wallets, pockets and purses. One friend even called only to hear on this end, "Bab's Bites 'n Bones" We should've called back so we could've met up sooner. Everyone was sharing information and it was all new to each other. We have vowed to do this again, not wait so long leaving with hugs and "so good to see you". In my walkabout I met a black lab named Hildegard. I visited the church I attended with my family while growing up and in walked Hildie. I've had dogs follow me, but to find me was a wonderful feeling. She walked right over to me, I greeted her and she stuck close, her dad is the parish priest. How wonderful to see a dog relaxing on the altar. She blessed me with a kiss before I left, we will send her treats.

Get out and see old friends, catch up, enjoy, keep in touch!
Enjoy your week friends.

27 teeth...

I first heard about Charlie from his adopted Mom a few months ago. Of course my heart went out to the little guy. Charlie was raised in a puppy mill where his food was mixed with sawdust. His Mom stopped by the market today and said she new a few teeth would maybe be pulled, she couldn't see all his teeth. The food mixture had rotted Charlie's teeth. The veterinarian had to pull many, well, 27 teeth.

Did he have teeth left to hold his tongue in, she said, 1 tooth on the bottom and a few back teeth. She knew that as he healed, and didn't seem in pain, he would get Bab's treats as do his other two siblings. Charlie has a very good home with much love and attention. Charlie from a bad start made it!

Here is to all adopted parents out there and the good Lord to please bless those dogs that are waiting for their good human family.

Take care friends, love your family!

Duke..

Duke is one of many displaced dogs, he was placed in a local kennel for a few days at a time while his family raced against the clock moving their belongings out of their home before more water came in and pray for the best. Their son is staying with friends, Duke at the kennel and his Mom/Dad have found a small living space also. Duke always happy to see his Mom as he was picked up from the kennel, but this time was different, he thought she wasn't coming back.

Duke waited, he stopped eating and his system began to shutdown. It was seven days, he would eat only treats, Bab's treats. His Mom called and told me the story. Duke is getting back to health, he has a yard to run in, roll and play in the grass, maybe even chasing squirrels. After each meal, he gets a Bab's treat and soon they'll all be in the same home temporarily.

We pray for all the displaced animals, elderly and pray for the best. Routines broken, hearts hurt and prayers sent. Pray for the best and have a safe week friends.

The levee's will hold!

Today we started the Farmer's Market for the 2011 Season. Hesitant with rising water, I almost asked my neighbor if I could borrow his canoe, sell treats from it and should the flood waters come, I would simply pull out the oars and flow down the street. The levee's are holding. Our traffic was slow, but it was a good day as I saw friends that had taken a break from moving/sandbagging and friends that stopped to visit. Met a new friend named Angus, he was found in a ditch near Hayes and friends adopted him several weeks ago. He's a beautiful pup, white and will grow and grow nearly as big as his brother Buddy, a Great Dane mix.

Our kids are growing to, our vet said, "feed less or 2x a day and walk more". You've heard the saying, "if your dog is fat, you're not getting enough exercise." Buster runs and runs and Carlee chases, she doesn't know why, but if Buster is doing it, she should too. Buster would rather be outside and Carlee doesn't care much for the new food and she's really the one that needs to drop a couple of pounds. We walk early mornings on weekends, with warmer weather coming, we'll just walk shorter distances.

Until then, I see drooping trees and flowers, time to water. Safe week to you friends!

Update...Little girl lost...

The little white dog has been adopted. My heart smiled when I heard the news!

**************
Thursday afternoon drew me to the river by the Causeway in Pierre. Tree's that I had watch grow on a small island were now covering with quick currents of water and I knew that I would soon be in someone's way and began to drive home when out like a flash a small white dog w/ a black spot on it's butt zipped out into traffic.
Scared, frantic and quick, she didn't know where to turn. I pulled off to the side of the street, waving my arms asking people to stop while I walked to her. She didn't know me and zipped back to the other side, again holding my hands up to pass safely I asked where her parents were, she barked, I stooped down and said, "Honey, where do you live?" She walked to me and hung her head.
I scratched her ears and walked to two ladies sitting in a driveway. It just so happens this little pup, Jack Russell mix, had been in this area for several days. People friendly, leather collar, likes kids. She stuck close, eventually laying her head in my lap. She let me pick her up when someone came to take her to be checked over. She's out of harm's way, fed and watered and the worse thing I could do was name her. I named her Molly, because by golly the good Lord was watching over her until someone or I helped her out.
There might be many pets that will need our help in this flood area, please keep an eye out for the critters and help where you can, we will do the same.
Stay safe friends.

One tree, two, three and then another...

Neighbors had given us some one stick fruit trees several years ago, we planted and then lost them, so we thought. On our nightly watering, we have stumbled over several exclaiming, "what, another one!" They get water, will need transplanting, but leaves have sprouted and they'll be fenced this fall with the new ones.

I imagine all the fruit we'll be able to harvest some day, within a year or two.
There's something about knowing where the fruit you eat comes from, plucking straight from the tree, I miss it.

A beautiful evening, wind has finally gone down, the cloudy skies are quiet and the bugs must be at the neighbors and here we are inside telling you about it. Get outside, enjoy...off we go!

Outstanding in our field...

Yes, we do have a field, it has tall new grass that is beautiful as it blows in the wind. We were measuring and planting tree's. Two apple and a pear, no partridge, but am sure there will be a meadowlark.

Last Monday we turned off the heat, Wednesday we turned it back on, today we baked and we just turned it way down...rain and cool comes again soon. So how's your Spring? We've been good busy and hope you have too.

Just a quick note, we hadn't forgotten about you.
Take care friends, enjoy your week!

What a beautiful day...

We opened the windows and door screens to let the air cross through, is that fresh I smell! Mmm, wonderful. Carlee's a bit spooked about the whole deal when she preferred to nap indoors as I found her partially under the bed. We planted a couple of flowering crab tree's today, they are so tall they bent over hitting the windshield. We welcomed them home and in hopes pollinate with Burt our remaining flowering crab. Ernie was snapped off at the base in a strong wind last fall. Perhaps Big Bird and another Ernie for names.

I've scoured the ground looking for the hostas and fern's, my sister is sure they'll return from the root. We have yet to purchase Memorial Day flowers, but til then, we need to dust off the peace lily and scoop Carlee up for a hug. Buster has enjoyed running, napping and running and watering the fruit tree's. He is a happy boy!
Life, it is good and we are blessed. We are blessed because of you too, enjoy and bless your animals with a treat or two.

Half full or half empty...

I've tried to always be the optomist in fact a friend of mine stopped by at work for a minute the other day, we visited and she said, "You're still an optomist!" I'll take that compliment. I was tickled when the temperatures began staying in the 30's and 40's at night, I didn't have to worry about topping off my tank at 1/2 full. Then gasoline prices jumped and I'm finding my self refilling the top half of my tank, because at these prices who can afford to fill the whole thing. So my half full tank stands where it did this winter.***Stop the presses....it's snowing with the forceful rain and wind.****I shouldn't have written Winter. Sigh, so it goes.

We're in a warm home, great day for a nap and we'll be making a pot of ham/bean soup. Stay warm, cuddle with your animals. If out cover up.

Later, I'll be looking for a small dog to sit under, I choose Buster. Doesn't he look handsome in his Spring cut.

Spring will come...

Last week one morning Carlee and I walked in many inches of snow and drove slowly into town, she would go anywhere with "Mom" and loved the ride just us girls. She wasn't so sure when we walked into the groomer assuring her "I'll be back." Those 3 little words are difficult for both of us, she pulled on her leash and I said a quick prayer.

She is beautiful, soft as a bunny. Buster thought a new girl had walked into the house in a sense he was right.
His turn is coming end of this week. Their out's will be quick and we'll all wait for the sun to return.

The Zonta Fair was a hit, many people, many new friends and customers. We had the honor of setting up next to one of Pierre's finest artists, what a wonderful person.
I have admired her work for some time. Her family have dogs of their own. Each morning we pray for animals to find their humans, we will continue.

On that note, love your dogs, give them treats even when you think they are naughty.
Stay warm and enjoy your week.

How sweet the sound...

It is the return of the meadowlark, his sweet song filled our air last week and Spring indeed arrived! Even in the chill, he sings to us and I tell him to find a warmer place then on the fence post. I couldn't see, but he may've been trading off feet, tucking one underneath for warmth. Our feathered friends, we gotta love'm.

We had a visitor the other morning, I really wasn't sure what was climbing over the fence, big and black, it looked like a larged winged something. The dogs were barking, barking, barking...it was 6:10am. My heart was beating rapidly, the "winged thing" walked into the light, a cat. I even had my glasses on. I began to call neighbors at 7:15am asking about "their" cat, no one had one missing. She was black with gray stripes and a small patch of white. When we returned outside, she was gone. She looked well cared for and maybe just looking for a snack.

Baking for Zonta Spring Fair coming April at the Pierre Mall, I'll give more info as I find it, til then, we have things to do and so do you.
Enjoy your week, look forward to the sunshine again!

Zeus...

I got word this week that a dear friend of mine died, his name Zeus. He was a little god and he worked it. A maltese that I cared for weeks at a time as his family traveled that spanned 4 years. He loved coming to the "farm", mention it he'd dance right off the floor. When his family left, so did he all the way to Minneapolis. Once flying to MPLS for a week to care for him, my first flight. Entering their new home his mom said, "here's your surprise" he nearly fell over. We had a great time, it's memories that keep us warm and pictures too.

Zeus lived with his Grandpa in Sioux Falls for several years, growing old together. It was Zeus' time, calculating his age, always to short for us humans. Family.
Life is fragile, handle with prayer.
Have you hugged your critter today?!

Time change...

When leaving the house for work, each gets two pea sized treats. Carlee rolls her eyes, Buster is right on my heels, “sit” firmly planted he patiently waits “good boy” and sometimes he’s still sitting in the same place when I return...4 hours later. I hope he's done something else with his morning beside's wait.

We did spring ahead Saturday evening at some point before midnight we heard a beep, electricity popped off long enough for clocks to revert back to the blinking 12:00. Hitting a button to make the blinking stop, we returned to sleep. Though we lost the hour of sleep, our clocks did read 7:15am and Buster was just waking. A very nice gift and I scratched his ears in thanks!

In the chill of the air today, we baked treats to fill orders and scraps for them to munch on when cooled. Running out of chicken broth, a new batch is slow cooking on the stove. It smells good and yes, we do make our own homemade beef and chicken broth, it's the Love we put into to each treat.

Seem's we should be doing something after all we have at least 2 hours of light left. Enjoy the longer days, we will. Take care friends.

We're ready...

Just as some people change out new air in their car tires for Spring, we are ready to open our windows and refresh our home. Washing everybody's blankets, vacuuming and scrubbing floors help, but oh what a wonder new air would bring. Airring out is one of few items on our Spring cleaning list. We don't wash windows then birds know not to hit them, there isn't a reflection.

We do however wash car windows due to little nose prints, paw prints and the occasional nose following a passing car streak oh yes and licking the smudges off. Sounds unappealing after breakfast, but it's our world...welcome! Besides, they are so happy to do this love of affection for us, how can we complain. We know there are many vehicles out there with the same love of affection on their windows as ours.

Snow again, Buster is disappointed, he stays out as long as he possibly can that he cannot muster to scratch the door. We find him shaking from tip of nose to tip of tail watching nothing go by, but it's outside and it's where he wants to be. Until we open the door we ask,"ready to come in and warm up?" he hesitates, takes one more look around then up at us and comes in when we offer to let him out again later. They both have a very good coat and a must for this time of year, after all, I'm not out long without my coat, cap and gloves. As if the furnace knows we are talking of the chill it kicks in.

Btw, you don't need to change out the air in your tires for any season, it's good all year round. Take care friends.

Snow trackers...

Though we have tired of the snow and the cold, we'd rather have snow tracked into the house than mud, which will soon come too. The little rocks will stick to paws, limping into the house just like the hard snow packed into those same places. The snow melts, mud slips. Buster has grown accustomed to stopping and waiting for feet and face to be wiped down, Carlee just keeps going. There's no catching her, but she's a good cleaner. Pristine feet.

So, we declare this the last snow fall of more than 2" and no more S or SE winds when it's still so chilly and no more negative readings on the thermometer. We are thankful for the sun to rise earlier, the warmth of the sun and the soon naps on the deck for Buster which he patiently awaits. Napping in a favorite chair where the sun lands works, but there is someting about surround air that cools him even if he naps on a rug. It is a dogs day and life and a scratch on the door to come in for a warm up. Just a minute.

Nose and beard full of snow, at least it's clean and clean upable.
May your critters know the fun of the snow. Enjoy the warmth of the sun!

Bedtime...

As of this writing, the flakes of snow are turning to itty bitty pellets of ice. We are staying put, we are prepared for this go round. The positive of this is it'll go quicker with the warmer sun and longer days. The lion into Spring.

Weekend nights we stay up a little longer trying to catch the 10 o'clock news. My thought process is if the dogs last out is at 10pm and their last treat about 10:30, they'll sleep until 6:30am. It would be a pleasant surprise, but Buster's inner clock wakes him way to early sending him back for another hour, like clockwork he shakes from sleep again just before 6am. He's up before the neighbor's rooster, that lucky guy is sleeping in!

Within these few minutes of writing, the road is white, Buster lays close by and I'm thinking hot cocoa. Stay put, warm and safe, that goes for the furry critters too.

Take care friends.

Joy of Love...

There are many loves and for Buster his joy includes smells. For instance, some time ago friends had stopped by from fishing. Buster was mesmerized, his sniffer just couldn't get enough, nearly levitating and it had remained in his territory which must've seemed forever...he claimed it his! When I heard a yell, "Your dog just pee'd on my leg." It wasn't the leg he was aiming for, but that delectable fish smell that had given him such joy and by the way, his aim isn't so good and didn't hit the leg.

So it's Valentine's Day, happy day! The Valentine's of our home got a little shredded cheese on suppers kibble and perhaps an extra treat before bed. Oh sure there are hugs too, unsuspecting to them as I scoop them close and whisper sweet nothings in their ears. Scratching their backside is always a plus, I can almost hear them say, "oh yea that's the spot, a little to the left".

Shy girl Carlee is on cleanup, as she is after every meal. She's the best little vacuum and loves every time I look in the door window or walk around the corner from the other room. She smiles with her tail. On that note, as Simon & Garfunkel sing..
Life I love ya, feelin groovy!

Enjoy life, love and laugh often.
Take care friends.

Northwest winds...

Sounds of the city disappeared when we built the cabin and they were missed, sleep was harder to come by at first. We have our own sounds and grown to love the sound of silence, there are spots throughout the day. What's really spectacular are the sounds that pierce the silence like low flying geese, from their honking to the bands in their wings; pelicans and cranes too. We hear a distant owl in the morning, a childhood sound that freightened me, now brings comfort.


Growing up near trains, it was always something I looked for when moving from a location, if the wind is just right, we can hear the whistle of the train. Buster grew up around trains and stops when he hears the distant whistle.

The Northwest winds bring their own sounds and fresh smells from the river below. They cool the portion of the cabin in which Buster has claimed his. He sleeps soundly on his blanket that came with him years ago. We washed that blanket many, many times before we got our own scent on it, placed it away for a year or two and brought it back out. Not that he'd might remember, but because it is warm. My boy.

We are blessed. We hope you feel the same with your family.
Take care friends, stay warm and always, safe travels.

Full of licker...

Since Carlee has lived with us she cannot seem to hold her licker, yes, you read it right. Trying to capture the flavor of everything her tongue touches, but mainly crumbs of possible fallen treats. I haven't found through holes yet, but am sure its bound to happen. Buster has picked up on this habit the last several months. He's not been one to ever lick his bowl clean much less lick the carpet, so I've sat him down and said, "listen here Buster". I know he's listening when he turns his head from one side to the other, maybe he's just humoring me.

Our crusted snowdrift has a nice sliding surface. Buster has eeked himself, testing each footstep to the top, Carlee runs to the top and slides down, run slide, run slide, run slide that fetch has become old hat which is good because I soon tire of throw and fetch.

Casey the neighbor dog paid us a visit this morning, we are part of his daily routine I can tell by the large yellow snow spots and healthy deposits. Today I took his picture, called his parents and said call him home. Today will be the 3rd time in 2 weeks we've had to reinforce our fence, frankly, I'm tired and have asked for suggestions stating he is a good dog and his parents haven't trained him not to leave their acreage. Someone will be knocking on their door today offering suggestions and it won't be us. Please spare a prayer for Casey and that there aren't repercussions on us.

Take care of your animals and look out for others.
Be safe friends.

Happy Birthday Buster!

Today our boy Buster turns 10. We sang Happy Birthday to him at breakfast, giving him a little meat treat on his food and of course when one has something so does the other so Carlee got some too. After his lunch I let them out and let him talk a little longer than usual, but there were an unusual amount of trucks at the neighbor's place and that was cause for excitement. Green bell pepper rounded out supper and he's been twirling around my legs like a cat waiting for a hug. It's not the first hug of the day.

Each day I thank the good Lord above for his being here, persistence on our part paid off. His favorite place continues to be the rug in front of the oven. With exceptions of Summer, he wasn't warm years before, he is now. As I tell you about him, he lays by my feet patiently waiting. He's a good boy, I've said that before haven't I. I guess I cannot say it enough.


Thank you friends for your birthday wishes, he was pretty tickled. He will get an extra treat at bedtime from Frank and Maya.

Take care friends.

Suspended light...

Last night as I waited around the corner of the deck out of the wind for business to be done, I am always warmed by small globes of light suspended in mid-air. We put up a simple string of white lights for Christmas and continue to let them shine. The dogs are mesmerized by them and as a night light illuminates, these do too when they run to the end of the cabin to see if cars have turned up our road.

Headlights from cars had an effect last night as if strung along like a bumper car. The metal pole that is attached to each bumper car and the top is run along a magnet of sorts. So glad the cars didn't veer into each other and the "pole" disappeared the closer the cars drove.

Sunday morning is brushing day and soft healthy treats given by Aunt Vicky from Christmas. The treats get stuck in their teeth and I can hear them working them out reminding them there is fresh water in their bowls. So handsome and beautiful they are and I know we'll need to make a grooming appointment. I keep them trimmed, but some parts are out of my league.

We saw earlier a suspended light in the sky, looks like the sun is trying to peak through, we await it's warmth. We wish you warmth on this chilly day. We are working on year end taxes, best get to it.

Have you hugged your dog (critters) today?

Traveling...

When the weather turned to chilly to walk outside, we turned to our stationary equipment. The scenery isn't nearly as pretty but we travel in the range of 2-3 miles each evening and listen to whatever channel has popular music of sorts. If we added our mileage, we'd probably be 1/2 way to Rapid. Friends would love to see us.

When we descend the stairs the dogs are perplexed, they have no idea where we go. They run to the hallway as if by magic we would be waiting for them. Consoling them they are fine, Buster often stands at the top of the stairs and looks down, we invite but he won't budge. Carlee will gingerly walk close to the stairs but will only sniff the air. How surprised they are when they hear footsteps on the stairs a half hour later! She's back, they're here! They jump with excitement, even dance a bit and run back and forth through the hallway. They are goofy, they are our's and they are cheap entertainment! As a treat we bundle up and go outside for a few minutes, they know it and are good reminders in case we dawdle.

But tonite we have taken the night off and their heads droop, routine has changed. Going through closets sorting clothes and shoes, boxes are filling so we can take to the hospice store in the morning, someone should use and the profits go back into the hospice program. A very good program in my book.

The north wind is rattling our screens tonite and has picked up any loose snow it can find creating a small drift on the brick sidewalk, thankful we don't need to be out in it to long. Keep warm with your animals and if you are out, layer up.

Take care friends.

Draft...

Wind has a natural power, once it finds a teeny tiny crack it will always find it. Today, fortunately, the lack of wind saves all of us. A snowglobe effect scatters flakes, soon we'll be out shoveling small drifts and measure what has landed on the deck.

The door sweep on one of the storm doors has seen it's last days, as the ice froze and melted, it cracked the hard plastic molding in several places creating a draft which was felt each time we opened the inside door. Yesterday in the chilly east wind, with the help of two kurious kids wondering what the screws, screwdriver, sweep and the gloves were just laying in their way. The screws stuck to cold noses and Mom was getting a little impatient. Eventually the sweep was replaced, the door shuts nicely and we have noted the warmer difference in the hallway.

Speaking of warmth, I smell the last pan of treats that are ready to come out of the oven. Stay warm, safe and have a wonderful week.

Safe travel friends.

Clean bill of health...

Buster had his annual checkup with the vet on Friday and he came away with a clean bill of health, it's always good to hear. Buster has a birthday coming up on
January 21, 2011. This most likely isn't the day he was born, but it is the day he jumped into my arms when I said, "Let's go home Buster". I purchased him a fleece blanket and the white knight was warm, he slept soundly all the way back. He didn't look like this when I picked him up and he doesn't look like this now, note the green grass and warm sunshine.


He's aways waiting for the next ride, is a good boy and wants to be friends with everyone and animal. He's full of might, has a stubborn streak and is curious about everything. He also keeps laps warm and is often close by. He was fearful of the male gender, service technicians are still bothersome to him. Will that always remain?

The little white guy is curled up on a red fleece blanket, ears erect always listening and when I turn down the computer for the day, he'll be close behind waiting for a lap to form.

Stay warm friends.

Oogy...

Oogy is a pup that was used as bait for fighting dogs. Sounds horrible doesn't it. Authored by his adopted father Larry Levin and available at your local library, a good read. We have storytime, I read aloud to the dogs and as storytime goes, they fall asleep. I didn't read the parts that saddened me, but to the end, which is a good end, we enjoyed the book. Check it out!

We shoveled yesterday in areas where drifts were created where possible dogs could jump into our yard or our dogs could jump out. Would they know to jump back in or just explore the world outside the yard without a leash. We heard dogs barking in the storm, we couldn't see nor sure which direction the barking came from and if we were not sure how could the dogs that were barking know in which direction they were going and where are they now?! We shoveled enough in the driveway to drive out, but our outting just now showed me that my neighbor came in with his payloader and pushed back snow. Our heads just perked up now as we heard rattling and rolling down the roof...ice, it's everywhere. We await the sun, but til then we have dog treats to get into the oven.

Running low, call (605)224-8592. We're sure you'll scamper back for more!
Stay warm friends.

Happy New Year too...

We contact a handful of people that travel at all costs no matter the weather, we hope they contact us back with a simple ring or a quick email when they have a free second. We don't ask for the world, just humor us and respond. We continue to wait for two friends and we hold them in prayer for their safety home and warmth.

Our outtings have been brief as the wind swirls the snow around the cabin and two white dogs. As we bundle up and go out we say, "this is going to be quick, if you have business to do, now is the time to do it." The dogs get it, a spot is cleared by the wind, they get it done and are quick back to the door hopping on 3 feet. Once inside, each is toweled down and feet cleared of snow.


What a warm way to start the new year, the sun shines. When the wind switches direction it should blow out the driveway and redirect our large drifts in the run. The snow is packed and King of the Hill will be played. Until then, we're staying put, you should to. Love your home, warm with comfort and hugs of your dogs.

Happy New Year friends, take care.