Focused on Fur

Spring is in the Air!

2011-03-26T18:07:00.001-06:00

Even though it is still cold outside,

there are buds coming out on the trees.

Then I saw the first blooms of daffodils and forsythia this week.

I can’t even put into words how much better the first signs of spring makes me feel.

Rusty's 4 Year Gotcha Day

2011-03-15T18:04:00.001-06:00

It was 4 years ago today that we added Rusty to our family.

He makes us smile:)

Annual Christmas Photo 2010

2010-12-27T12:46:00.000-07:00

Our newest edition of the Family Christmas Photo 2010

Have I mentioned before how much I love digital photography and Photoshop? Without it somebody wasn't going to look great and it sure wasn't going to be me. This way everyone gets to look fabulous.

We hope you had a great Christmas and that the New Year will be fantastic.

Catching Up- Again

2010-10-09T15:43:00.000-06:00

Some photos to catch up from the last time I posted.

Swan Island Dahlia Festival in Canby, Oregon.

I was thrilled to be there.

Pretty Kitty napping in the morning sunshine.

Grapes in the Wine Country of Oregon.

I want to move there...at least when it isn't raining.

This lucky dog has quite the life running free in such a beautiful place.

Butterfly in Millcreek Canyon

Dahlias for my Mamacita.

I miss her already.

I got permission to cut these roses for Mamacita from the Murray Park Rose Garden. She would have loved them.

My Dahlia Arrangement brought home ribbons!

These were all our entries into the Dahlia Show.

We won two BIG ribbons along with some others.

We played dress up to go to a "Bollywood Party".

And again for Octoberfest.

I think blonds do have more fun!

First Dahlia Bouquet

2010-08-09T23:46:00.003-06:00

My First Dahlia Bouquet of the Season

Up Close and Personal

Lucky for me a little bee thought he'd check out the new blooms.

I tried 3 different lenses, several different settings from every possible angle of the same bouquet.
I like them all or maybe I just love the flowers.

The name of this Dahlia is Bristol Fleck. I love how it has some pedals that just want to be noticed.

Click on the photos for a closer look

New Member of the Family

2010-08-05T17:45:00.003-06:00

Introducing Chip, the newest member of my brother's family. He is named after another very loved black lab that my brother had in the past.

Watch out Rusty, he'll be bigger than you in no time.

He's already reaching for the stars.....

and rarely sits still.

The Great Niece better love the "furry kids".

She is out numbered.

Glacier National Park

2010-07-30T18:00:00.002-06:00

Glacier National Park was our destination for this year's exploration. We stayed at The Big Bear Inn. It was appealing because it served a Continental Breakfast and Dinner! Plus, and a big plus was that it had availability on short notice.

This was a beautiful lake near Polebridge, Montana.

Big Horned Sheep looking kind of shabby after shedding their winter coats. At least most of it.

Avalanche Lake

Mountain Goats were used to people. This guy thought he had showed up for a photo shoot and was ready to pose.

Road to the Sun was more of a Road to Rain for us but beautiful all the same.

My first step into Canada to see The Prince of Wales Hotel.

A peak of the lake at Rocky Point

We saw this bear and her cubs crossing the road in front of us. I was so excited I forgot to take a photo until they were well on their way back into the trees. I was also so excited we got to see Bears but not on the trail!

The test of true friendship is to spend basically 5 days in a car. We passed.

Ruby's 12th Birthday

2010-07-18T22:18:00.001-06:00

2010

Her Cake: Homemade Pumpkin Oat bran Biscuits frosted with Peanut Butter...She loved it and we loved watching her eat the peanut butter. Everybody wins!

1998

Happy 12th Birthday to Ruby!

Roses

2010-07-05T21:46:00.000-06:00

Who doesn't love roses? I know I do. For me the June "flush" is a sure sign of summer in Utah and I look forward to it each year.

In March we pruned these beauties in the park rose garden back to the point I thought we had killed them.

It turned out they liked the harsh treatment

and rewarded us with quite a show.

I decided it was time for my own rose garden so I did my homework, visited nurseries from Salt Lake to Ogden to find the varieties on my list. The 12 roses I found are waiting to be planted because the bed I hired two very nice men to prepare is now a pond. I had no idea this sunny spot once covered in grass was actually catching all the run off from the neighbor's yard. We are trying to figure out a drain plan. Wish me luck.

Fleeting Flowers

2010-05-12T22:02:00.000-06:00

The forecast was for wind and rain. Just the ingredients to obliterate all the beautiful blooms on the dozens of trees in the park I work in. I neglected my real job of pulling weeds to photograph the trees before the blooms were gone.

The light was just right for a moment.

My lucky day.....newly hatched goslings in the morning light with their protective parent.
After this shot, I put my camera away and went back to pulling weeds out of the iris patch with a smile on my face.

Thanksgiving Point

2010-05-07T18:44:00.003-06:00

An afternoon at Thanksgiving Point is always a welcome treat. Throw in a nice day, some beautiful tulip displays and a serendipitous owlet sighting and you could call it a dessert buffet!

A Mother Owl and two Owlets in their not so cozy nest in the rocks high above the waterfall.

(Click on this photo for a closer look)

I think I need an Italian Fountain in my back yard...

...and some pink tulips.

But then I guess I do, this lovely place is only 20 minutes from my door and in a way; right in my own back yard. Chances are it may be in your back yard too. Let me know if you are going and I will tell you where to find the owls;-)

(We missed you Kate!)

Getting Caught UP

2010-04-27T18:13:00.010-06:00

Could I have been too busy this past winter to blog? Well," that's my story and I'm sticking to it" as they say. Here are a few tidbits to catch you up with my incredibly exciting life:-)

I saw a card at the store with a pug with lips.

It read "PUGS AND KISSES FOR YOUR BIRTHDAY" so I plagiarized it and made one for my niece from a photo of her very own pug, Zoey.

I am shameless, but couldn't resist.

I started knitting a lace scarf for my Mom's birthday and managed to finish it only three weeks late. It was haaard.

We celebrated Rusty's 3rd Gotcha Day.

He still wakes up in the mornings wagging his tail with a smile on his face.....really.
We went to Sonoma, California for a wedding celebration that lasted three days.

That trumps our wedding.....it lasted 3 hours and we served punch and cookies.....really.
Between wedding festivities we got out to enjoy some scenery that caught my eye and of course my camera was ready.
For our 37th wedding anniversary we planted a Weeping White Spruce that Ruby has decided makes a terrific hiding place. Guess what, Ruby; we can still see you.
And, the tulips I received as a birthday gift a few years ago made their appearance to announce spring.

Too bad the forecast is for more snow tomorrow.

Gotta love Utah springs.

St. Patrick's Day

2010-03-17T14:20:00.006-06:00

My friend Kate inspired me to come out of hibernation and post some photos of Ireland as a nod to St. Patrick's Day. We visited a few years back and fell in love with the place. It is too wet and cloudy to want to live there but it was lovely to visit.

Click on the photos if you want them bigger. I've yet to figure out how to post them that way:(

The definition of "Rolling Hills".

Gardens to envy.......

along with the views. I wondered if these cows enjoyed theirs.

This little lady was important to the people of Dublin.

I just can't remember why.

I do remember our guide called her "The Tart with a Cart".

I came home with this Irish saying stuck in my head:

If you're lucky enough to be Irish

You're LUCKY enough!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Lesson Learned

2010-01-12T11:08:00.007-07:00

I just got off the phone from wishing my Uncle a Happy 89th Birthday. I made a suggestion that he used a harness rather than a collar to secure his canine buddy, Scooter when they went for rides in the car. He thanked me for the suggestion and said, "You are never too old to learn new things."

That wisdom made me feel better about learning the hard way that you should listen to the Vet. They told us not once but twice to put a cone on Ruby to keep her away from the stitches, then staples from her growth removal surgery. I thought I would just watch her, but then I didn't think about maybe taking a shower or checking my e-mail....etc.

Ruby is now wearing a cone. The wound looks better and I learned a lesson. Now, I just have to make sure she doesn't get the cone off.

Oh well, I can take a shower next week! (Just kidding, or course. Great Guy is nice to give me a break)

Great Guy's Birthday

2010-01-02T22:52:00.002-07:00

Happy Birthday to Great Guy!

My gift (along with some new skis) was a hand knit Hat and Neck Gator.

He had Birthday Wishes from the Three White Dogs too!

Annual Christmas Photo

2009-12-28T08:27:00.011-07:00

This year on Christmas Eve I was busy as always but had promised to volunteer at the Red Cross for a few hours. Turns out they decided to close for the afternoon and had forgotten to tell me. It was my first Christmas gift.....four hours of free time. What to do with it.? I decided I would take the time to really do a great job of setting up for the annual family Christmas photo. I figured out where everyone should stand since our family has grown this year. I set up the tripod on the stairs to get more distance; not an easy task but my trusty level came in handy. I took several practice shots to check everything out. I was ready. No complaints from impatient family members this year waiting for me to get it figured out. The careful planning was worth the effort in an unexpected way. My favorite photo for this year was when some of us decided to be funny. Funny to the point that I laugh every time I have looked at this photo. The look my Mom came up with is priceless. (Click on the picture for a full screen view)

Don't you just love my new earrings and BC looks great despite my brother's efforts.

We did get one good serious one but it is out of focus somehow.

Rocky is back for another visit for the Holidays while his people are in Mexico.
Whatever!

Rusty and Zoey took a turn playing in the discarded wrapping paper.

Hope your Christmas had a few laughs too and your

New Year is Happy!

Happy Holidays

2009-12-19T11:16:00.008-07:00

I often wish my dogs could talk.

But then you just look at their faces and you know if Ruby could talk she would say,

" He is touching me, he is touching me!!"

And Rusty would say, "I HATE this @!#* hat!"

And finally they both would say,

"OK, take the picture then let's go for a walk and maybe you could throw the ball about a thousand times."

When all I wanted them to say is:

Happy Holidays!

May all the joys of the Christmas Season

be yours today and always.

Festival of Trees

2009-12-08T16:44:00.004-07:00

The Festival of Trees

is a big fund raiser for Primary Children's Hospital and I was asked to be a volunteer photographer taking pictures of kids and families with Santa.

Of course I said YES!It was a great experience filled with lots of laughter and a few tears.

All one little girl wanted from Santa was for her friend

to come home from the hospital for Christmas.

There wasn't a dry eye in Santa Land during her visit.

I even got to sit on Santa's lap.

I was asked if I would take photos again next year.

Of course.....I said YES!

Rusty's 3rd Birthday

2009-11-23T18:11:00.005-07:00

Happy 3rd Birthday Rusty!
As with most rescue dogs we don't know when his real birthday is.
The vet estimated that he was 4 months old when he became part of our family so we counted back and decided that November 15, 2006 would have been a fine day for his birthday. We spoil him a little more that day and are so glad he waited for us to come and get him.
He is loving, devoted and a source of endless laughs.

Baby Presents

2009-11-06T16:07:00.009-07:00

Any day now I will be a Great Aunt.

It is about time that I finally am getting a proper title because I think I have been a

"great" Aunt all along ;-)

Just in case it is a Girl

The parents of my soon to be great niece or nephew decided they wanted to step back a decade or two and find out if they have a son or a daughter when the baby arrives.

Just in case it is a Boy
That is great but it made it a little more work for me. In our family babies are welcomed with homemade gifts. The last while I have been using my new found knitting skills to make blankets, booties and hats.

Traditionally we usually crochet our gifts
so I had to throw in a few crocheted booties along with my first ever knitted ones.

Thanks to JH for instructions for this receiving blanket and burp cloths.

This print is a nod to the baby's Great Grandfather. He was a rodeo cowboy in his day and would have loved this one. I figure it could be for a boy or a girl given some of my best friends are cowgirls.

I am finally ready. Now I can just sit back, relax and hope for
all the best for the newest member of our family.

Kickin' & Screamin'

2009-10-27T15:28:00.004-06:00

Snow, you read correctly "snow". And not just in the mountains but here in the valley too. It is only October people! I'm not ready for it......but then I never am. Everyone that knows me, knows I would rather be in Southern California in the winter.One last look at summer.

I think Ruby said, "Rusty, you look that way, I'll look the other way and we'll really drive her crrrazzzzy!"

I already miss the flowers, the grass, the warm weather and the dogs going outside without coming back in covered in snowballs.

OK, time for some cheese and crackers with that whine.

But just for the record;

I'm not letting summer, or fall for that matter go without

Kickin' and Screamin' just a bit.

Zion Marathon

2009-10-14T09:59:00.013-06:00

The Watchman at Sunset

Taylor Creek in Kolob Canyon

Last spring we left Zion National Park wanting more so we booked another trip the day we returned. This time we had fall colors on our minds and was not disappointed.

The colors in Zion were just starting but we found what we were looking for in Kolob Canyon on the Taylor Creek Trail.

This view from Observation Point in Zion required a high price. It is 5 miles up and up and up. It was countless switchbacks that looked steeper at every turn. I can truly say this for me was a once in a lifetime view because I ain't goin' back. My feet complained the entire 5 miles back. I would go back as far as Echo Canyon. That was so beautiful and worth every step plus a great place to stop for lunch.

More fall colors in Taylor Creek

JH enjoying the narrows of Echo Canyon

The sky was threatening but never rained on the parade of color in Taylor Creek.

We have a tradition of hanging our feet off the cliff of a conquered trail.

Thanks to TH we got to see our first ever Tarantula on Sand Bench trail.

In total we hiked 26 miles.

By damn that is a MARATHON!!!!!

Does it count if it takes 4 days to do it?

Lucky Girl

2009-10-03T18:29:00.009-06:00

That "Lucky Girl" would be me because Great Guy surprised me with a new macro lens.
I have had lots of opportunities to try it out because of our recent Dahlia Show.

Plus, Zoey came to visit.....

then of course there are the usual subjects. Rusty has a great profile

and Ruby melts my heart with those big, brown eyes.

Our 2009 Dahlia Show was a success!

I do have to brag a bit. Mom and I won a blue ribbon and best in it's class for both Lovely Lana and Western Spanish Dancer. We got a blue ribbon for Sweet dreams and Woodlands Dufus and a 3rd place white ribbon for Mr. Jimmy to round it out. Not too bad for our first year!

Bad Day?

2009-09-22T13:38:00.013-06:00

This should make you

SMILE !
Or how about this one?

I got to do a photo shoot for sweet Chloee and darling Ryker.
They both have such great personalities that made it so much fun.
The fact that I got to spend time with some of my favorite family members
and had a delicious lunch made it all that much better.

Chloee with a more dignified pose.

Ryker showing off for his close-up.

Don't you just love his eyes!

"What? If I lie here one more second you will actually give me that treat?"

Don't tell Rusty I let Ryker borrow his fetch toy.

Best Buds

Somehow I just knew they had had enough.

Now that you have a smile back on your face I hope you have a great day!

My Favorite Subjects

2009-09-17T17:33:00.006-06:00

Rusty loves to fetch. He can't get enough of it.

In fact, we have to hide his fetch toys when we are in the house or he drives us crazy.

For some reason he likes pink balls best.

Who said dogs are colorblind?

Rusty won't give Ruby a chance to fetch.

No problem. She would rather sleep anyway.

No wonder she looks rested and Rusty is "dog" tired.

Farmer's Market

2009-09-11T20:28:00.016-06:00

Today's photos need no commentary.

They speak for themselves.

Now you know why I love the Pioneer Park's Farmer's Market.

You can get anything from fruit to nuts literally.

Just make sure you take lots of shopping bags and hit the ATM before you go!

My tip is to get there early (7:45 am) for the best parking and selection.

It runs every Saturday for a few more weeks from 8:00 until 1:00.

If you really want to torture yourself, click on the photos to see them full screen.

Who Let The Dogs Out?

2009-09-06T13:27:00.015-06:00

The perfect place to "Focus on Fur" is our local Farmer's Market at Pioneer Park. The park is crowded on Saturday mornings with people and their canine companions shopping for the best the season has to offer.

This lovely Pom was happy to find a ride in the shopping bag........

... but this darling puppy was not as thrilled being treated like just another melon.

The smile was thanks enough for the treat.

Loving hands guided this gentle girl through the crowd.

Go ahead, take my picture all you want.

I've got all day.

The "sit and smile" award goes to this beauty.

A little rest in the middle of the action seemed like a good idea at the time.

I'm hoping seeing his picture on the Internet will cheer him up:))

I have volunteered at Pioneer Park's Farmer's Market for the last several years as the Project Leader for the Master Gardener Booth. I have decided to step aside and let someone else have an opportunity to experience the energy of the market. Yesterday was my last day and I thought I would mark the occasion with photos of the dogs and the produce.
The produce shots will wait until next time.

Oregon's Flowers

2009-08-31T16:37:00.008-06:00

I promised flowers and flowers you get.

Oregon had plenty most everywhere you looked.

Driving north from Neskowin on Highway 101 I saw a crop, yes, a crop of Dahlias. Remember, I have been trying to grow dahlias for the first time this year. Mom waters them, I carefully weed them, stake them and speak kind words to them. Well, in Oregon they grow dahlias without stakes, in row after row along with the weeds and have a beautiful display of flowers.
I asked the man that grows them if I could take some pictures. He said I could because I had asked, then was kind enough to give me some growing details. He adds to his retirement by selling them by the dozen and sells enough to make it worth his while. What a great idea! It is much better than most of the retirement schemes I have come up with.

Hydrangeas were as common in Oregon as petunias here in Utah

Zinnias in every color made for another showy display

When I go back to Oregon I don't know if it will be because of the flowers or the dramatic ocean views. Probably both.

Oregon Coast

2009-08-26T12:06:00.012-06:00

We decided to mix it up a little this year and go places we have never been before. The Oregon Coast was the destination this time because it is a favorite of a couple of my friends and we wanted to see what all the fuss was about. We stayed in a little town called Neskowin and was greeted the first night with this sunset. Not too bad for starters.

This is Heceta Head Lighthouse.

It is located on highway 101 between Florence and Yachats and is my favorite because of the dramatic views.

We did daily road trips and ended up seeing the coast from Cannon Beach to the north and as far south as Reedsport.

Yaquina Head Lighthouse is near Newport, Oregon.

The weather was perfect while we were there giving us a spectacular view around every bend.

Oregon is dog friendly with miles of beach for them to indulge in their tennis ball addictions.

This view was somewhere on highway 101. Great Guy got a little tired of me saying, "Honey! Stop the car!" There was a photo opportunity entirely too often in his opinion.

OK, dear friends......

I get what you love about Oregon because now I love it too and can't wait to go back.

You know I can't go anywhere without taking some flower pictures.

I will save them for another post.

My Dahlias

2009-08-16T16:44:00.006-06:00

I remember the first time I had ever seen dahlias. A Master Gardener brought an amazing bouquet to one of our meetings. Some of the blooms were as big as a dinner plate.

The Utah Dahlia Society was started just this past year and I was invited to join. Not because I knew anything about them, but because they needed the dues from a new recruit!

I figured if I was going to be a member I should try and grow a few. These are my first attempts and quite gorgeous if I do say so myself. I started out with 12 tubers. Nine came up then I lost one to the wind. You learn to stake them early with mistakes like that.

I doubt I will be much competition to the others in our group that are tending to over 200 of their "babies."

Thanks to Mom for watering them. They are in her yard because I have a mostly shade garden.

Friday Afternoon Club

2009-08-05T11:18:00.012-06:00

I always look forward to our Friday Afternoon Club. It is most often the highlight of my week because the company is great and it is always a new adventure. I don't often blog about it because Kate at http://www.highaltitudegardening.blogspot.com/ owns it. Yep, she invented it so I figure she gets all the pictures and gets to tell the tale. She is better at it anyway, she is a writer after all.

Bad Dog looking especially handsome.

But I'm feeling brave today so sorry if you see these photos twice Wunx.

The Yolk in Kamas, Utah where we stopped because of the flowers but will go back because of the delicious food.

They said their secret to these beauties is to dead head regularly, water twice a day and fertilize every week. No wonder......I would never do all that!

We turned around to go back to see if we read this sign correctly. Apparently, we did! We still aren't sure if it is for real, but it could be. The things in Utah can be surprizing sometimes.

I do like these playful characters inviting you to join in the "fun".

The meadows around Mirror Lake in the Uinta Mountains were covered in wild flowers that stopped you in your tracks just to take them all in. They were all so beautiful it made me want to get out the paint brushes again.......maybe someday.

(Is anyone else having trouble with blogspot lately? I am finding it difficult to move pictures around and positioning text. It is probably just me.)

Yarn Quest Winners

2009-07-24T09:13:00.003-06:00

Yarn Quest Grand Prize

Last week Wunx and I went on a quest. Seven of the best yarn stores in our area had a Yarn Quest that required that you visit each store and get a stamp on our official Yarn Quest cards. At the seventh store you entered your card in a drawing for a multitude of prizes.

The amazing thing is that I can no longer say I never win anything because we won! We not only won but we won THE GRAND PRIZE which was over $450.00 worth of yarn and stuff. Wunx and I had a great time splitting up the bounty.

Now we just have to figure out what to knit with all the stash.

Ruby's 11th Birthday

2009-07-18T22:51:00.012-06:00

Happy 11th Birthday to Ruby! Ruby's life has been well documented with photos so this year was no different.I couldn' t choose which pose I liked best so I was hoping all of our blog readers would vote for their favorite. Our goal is to get all 5 of you to vote:))
Ruby's gift this year was to have a nice woman come to our home that has the ability to converse with animals and tell their people just what they think. What better gift, I thought, to be able to tell us after all this time just what is what. I know, I had my doubts too but some things she told us was a little too close to be a guess. I like to keep an open mind and besides, who I am to question an ability that I don't understand. Well, it turns out that Ruby believes she is our equal (no doubt about that) and is thrilled that we all have Rusty for our pet. Rusty, by the way, is just as happy with this arrangement and is thrilled to be everyone's pet. She does, after all love him and is happy that he is here. Whew, I thought she was going to say the opposite.

Grandma came to celebrate and brought Ruby and Rusty both a gift.
So much for that plan because Rusty's response was, "Mine, they are all Mine!"

Not so fast, I do believe Grandma brought one for me too!

All these photos and fighting for my toy makes me so tired.

Rest up dear Ruby, we will do it all again next year:)

Daylilies at Red Butte

2009-07-09T17:14:00.014-06:00

It is daylily season here in Utah.

One of the best displays besides Bev's garden is at Red Butte Garden. That is because she and her husband planted them there several years ago.

I make it a point to check them out every year and this year's display is as good as it gets.

These are just a few of the many varieties available.

Red Butte Gardens is hosting a Daylily Show this Saturday, July 11th from 9:00 am until 3:00 pm. It will be a great opportunity to see these beauties up close and maybe even get some ideas to incorporate one or more into your own garden.

If you go, be sure to say hello to Bev.
She will be the one with the Best of Show Ribbon!

Flower Junkie

2009-07-03T11:46:00.005-06:00

Temple Square Garden

A flower junkie is what I call myself. I am passionate about a beautiful garden and will go out of my way to enjoy one. Here in Utah, despite our desert climate ( you wouldn't know that by this year's rainfall) we have an abundance of public and private gardens that I absolutely love. Some of my favorites are the tiny public garden at Gilgal, the Temple Sqare Gardens, Red Butte, Thanksgiving Point, and of course, my home away from home, Murray Park.

Because of my affiliation with the Utah Master Gardeners and the Utah Dahlia Society I have been invited to many back yard gardens that take your breath away. It takes years of hard work and dedication not to mention lots of money to establish and maintain these works of art. I appreciate every hour and every penny.
Murray Park Rose Garden
This might be a good time to remind everyone to take a moment and look around at the Parks you will visit this 4th of July holiday. There has been a huge effort to make them beautiful just for you to enjoy.

Goodbye Grandma

2009-07-01T17:59:00.006-06:00

My Grandma Clark died today at 94 years old. She is holding my newborn brother here. I am on the right and about 3 years old.

It is hard to put the visions of her latest existence out of my head and try and remember her when she was young, and I do mean young. She was only 38 years old when I was born.
She was a fun Grandma then and would let us do most anything we wanted. My Grandparents lived on several acres of land that they used to raise cattle. I can remember going up there to spend time with them in the summer and riding horses bare back and taking walks unescorted down to the pond. At home I was not allowed to cross the street alone.

My Grandmother swore like a sailor. I remember her calling me and my cousins “little bastards” for putting the olives on our fingers and eating them off one year before our Thanksgiving dinner. I have a dear friend that has to spell H...E...L...L. It makes me laugh to think of the language I was raised on. I finally have cleaned mine up and don’t use much more than you hear on TV these days.

I always did look forward to our big family Thanksgiving dinners and getting together for other occasions. Grandma was a great “comfort food” cook and made wonderful gravy to go on top of mounds of mashed potatoes.

Grandma loved to quilt and make other crafts although her taste in colors was always a surprise. Thinking of that I think I will go upstairs and wrap myself in my vibrant turquoise quilt she made and try harder to remember all the fun we had.

Rusty's Turn

2009-06-19T18:43:00.007-06:00

We finally got a break from the rain so I headed outside to take a few photos of the spring flowers before they are gone. Rusty heard the click of the shutter and came running.
He seemed to be giving me hell for not taking his picture.

After all, I did promised that he would be blogged next.
So here ya go Rusty, are you ready for your close-up?
I love his eye lashes!

Ruby and Sunshine

2009-06-10T13:08:00.006-06:00

Rain.....I know we need it but enough is enough. The kids and I have been cooped up in the house because the desert we live in has decided to act more like Oregon. The sun decided to peek out for just a moment and Ruby happened to be in just the right spot. John Denver sang, "Sunshine on my shoulder makes me happy...", well, sunshine on Ruby's face does the same for me. Now if we could just get it to stick around for a while.

I know Rusty, it is your turn to be blogged next!

Spring Fever

2009-06-04T16:19:00.007-06:00

If you thought you were excited that spring is here, it could not possibly compare to the excitement that Toby and Bella felt after finally being turned out to pasture. After all, the poor things have to spend their winters in a posh, heated barn.

Toby felt lighter than air with all four hooves off the ground.

I have to admit the excitement took my breath away and I was more than a little bit scared being in the center of all the running and bucking with these big beauties. But it was all about the photos.......

Yep, and they get to stay out here all summer. YeeeeeHaaaaa!!!!!

Hey, Bella. Do you think that lady with the camera will go away if I hide back here? Yes, but I'll be back next chance I get.

Ziggy, NH, Hank & Duke

2009-05-31T21:36:00.004-06:00

It is about time I actually focused on fur. I have been busy with the planting season and hiking and neglecting my favorite subjects. This handsome boy is Ziggy, an Australian Shepard that stole my heart years ago when friends adopted him. He is a lap dog and a house dog despite his breeding. You see him here in his favorite chair; given a choice of outside or his chair, he would take the chair no doubt.
Duke and Hank belong to the friend's son NH. Ziggy loves them to come and visit as long as they stay away from his chair!

Confessions of a Utah Native

2009-05-14T19:28:00.011-06:00

I am embarrassed to admit that I have lived in Utah most of my life and this past weekend was my first real visit to Zion National Park. By "real" I mean we drove through it once at dusk but I have never really stayed there or hiked the trails before. Our great friends JH & TH celebrated his birthday and her Mother's Day by joining us for this grand adventure. The colors and views from every angle were enough to make me stop talking.....for a moment anyway.My favorite hike was not because it was easy, just the opposite, it was hard. Angel's Landing is famous and I wanted to go to the top. The warning clearly states that if you are afraid of heights DO NOT ATTEMPT. Well, TH had enough sense to heed the warning but the rest of us threw caution to the wind and headed up. The path was steep and narrow with heavy chains anchored in the rocks to hang on to if you happen to slip on what was sometimes a four foot wide trail with drop offs on both sides. One side is 1200 feet, the other is 800 which made for a gorgeous view at the top. I didn't do it "pretty" but I did it! The hike wouldn't be complete without dangling your feet off the edge. The hiking wasn't the only thing that was grand. We stayed at a wonderful B&B called the Red Rock Cottage Inn . We were served a breakfast like this one every morning in a picnic basket on our patio. We took the long way home and saw the Hoodoos in Bryce National Park. More beautiful views and a good reason to go back soon and spend more time in southern Utah.

Ruby's Dirty Photo

2009-05-07T07:38:00.001-06:00

The recent rains make it perfect for mud puddles.....Ruby loves 'em.

Geese Intervention

2009-04-30T22:10:00.002-06:00

They made it! Not without help, but they made it off the roof after their nest was moved to a better spot. Whew, that was scary.

Silly Goose & Bev's Beauties

2009-04-23T18:12:00.009-06:00

Have you ever looked back at something you did and said to yourself, "What was I thinking?!" I'd bet this mother goose is going to be saying just that when the baby geese hatch and she has to figure out a way to get them off this roof. It is about a 15 foot fall with asphalt on all sides. I hope she and her mate that is hanging around have a plan. Speaking of plans, I had lots to do today but took a detour to visit one of the most beautiful private gardens in our area. My friend Bev is a Master Gardener in every sense of the title. She knows everything there is to know and can tell you the name of each plant in her massive garden. The spring bulbs have exploded in her landscape with vibrant yellows, oranges, pinks, and purple.
The garden paths lead to a surprise around every corner.Bev's garden was a wonderful break from the errands and just the reason I was so anxious for spring to come.

Baby Ducks

2009-04-17T09:01:00.006-06:00

I saw the first batch of baby ducks at the park yesterday. Their Mom was leading them from the nest straight into the freezing cold water that was very swift from all the recent snow and rain. I hope they made it. By the way, this photo was from a while ago, it is obvious these baby ducks are a bit older.I was at the park because we had our Annual Master Gardener Plant Exchange. It is one of the most popular events that we have each year. We have a few generous members that have green houses that supply most of the "exchange". There is no exchange really for them, they seldom take anything in return. Believe it or not there were tomatoes there that already had fruit on them. My exchange items were some of Aunt Clara's Hens and Chicks, (Aunt Clara gave my Mom a start over 50 years ago. I got a start from my Mom and have since given countless starts to others. Long live Aunt Clara's Hens and Chicks, kind of like the never ending colorful stories about her.), some Veronica Speedwell that gets too big for the spot I had them in and the pictured Mexican Primrose. I still have more if anyone that lives close by wants some.

Horny Nephew

2009-04-15T17:17:00.003-06:00

Photoshop was only involved in the dark glasses because the horns are a fixture in my brother's home. I don't like the hunting thing and the horns in the living room are not my particular taste but they did make a funny photo when I urged the nephew to stand in front of them for his birthday photo. With SC's recent announcement they seem appropriate now.

(Just kidding of course)

Moose and Squirrel

2009-04-14T08:16:00.009-06:00

I introduced you to Moose and Squirrel as puppies a few days ago. They are now two years old and NF's health made it necessary for them to find new homes. Lucky for them a niece jumped at the chance to take them both. I am thrilled they get to stay together and am a little envious that they are moving to Florida. No more snow for them! Thanks to BC for grooming them yesterday so they will be pretty for their first airplane ride and new adventure. And thanks to Mom for her photo assistance. I couldn't resist taking photos of them on the rocks and in front of the spring flowers. It is a nice change to get some photos without snow. (You can still see it on the mountains but not in the yard). Squirrel on the run. Moose the model.

He was a natural in front of the camera and was definitely ready for his close-up.

Well, goodbye and good luck to them both. I wish them well and NF too. Cancer sucks :(

Any Time Now

2009-04-11T12:16:00.009-06:00

The Magnolia is blooming in the park! Those blooms are a sure sign of spring and the glorious weather that will be here

ANY.....TIME.....NOW.
The funny thing is that I worked in the park for two days this past week and when the rain came back on Wednesday I was relieved. You read that correctly, RELIEVED. I like to believe that I am still young and strong but my body sometimes lets me know in not so subtle ways that I'm not all that young or all that strong. The truth is, I needed the time between the good weather and the bad to heal the scratches, bruises and sore muscles.

But that was a few days ago, I'm ready again and can't wait to feel the aches and pains of a hard day's work and the satisfaction of looking at the accomplishments of the day. Given my work is in a public place I hope that someone notices and that our efforts help to beautify and brighten their day.

NF, Moose and Squirrel

2009-04-03T08:16:00.004-06:00

The answer to last week's post is Not Yet! Spring is taking it's time this year but you wouldn't know it by the behavior of the ducks and geese in the park. They are totally in the mood for spring and makes the park an X-rated theater with plenty of explaining to do by the parents that innocently bring their kids there to play. All I can say is mallards need a few lessons in love.
The weather is too bad to pull out the camera so I decided to post an oldie but goodie. This was taken a couple of years ago when a dear friend's dog had puppies. The bigger puppy is named Moose because he was a "pig" and poor Squirrel wasn't getting enough to eat. NF ended up bottle feeding him day and night until he was strong enough to eat on his own. After all that love and attention she couldn't let either one of them be adopted and added them to her family.
Now the table has turned. It is NF that is fighting for her life. The same lady that hiked to the top of Secret Lake with us just last summer. I have no doubt that if the fight can be won she will win it.....in her own words she is a, "tough old blister". Please send healing thoughts her way.

Is it Spring Yet?

2009-03-27T09:19:00.004-06:00

Spring in Utah is frustrating for us sun lovers. We spent the entire day last Saturday doing yard work without a coat. Then Sunday, winter made an uninvited appearance. I try to keep visions of the tulips at Thanksgiving Point in my head and know they are just around the corner.

Wild Horses

2009-03-21T02:46:00.002-06:00

When Kate said she wanted to go look for Wild Horses on our Friday Afternoon adventure I didn't know what to expect. I am always ready to explore new territory and this was an amazing example of land and animals in my own back yard that I had no idea existed. It was a thrill to see this stallion and his mares living free in a beautiful canyon with wide open spaces and plenty of land to roam. Top that view off with dinner at a Truck Stop and there you have one grand adventure and a Friday Afternoon to remember.

The Village Canines

2009-03-18T16:35:00.010-06:00

Rocky stayed with us the past week while his people were in Hawaii. When he comes to visit he comes with the normal leashes, collars, etc. The difference is his belongings include several outfits. They are all very macho, as well they should be for a 9 pound Maltese named Rocky. I just couldn't resist trying some of the outfits on him. I didn't want Ruby and Rusty to feel left out so I got out their Halloween costumes.They look like the Canine version of The Village People!
I got the idea for this photo when I found Rocky asleep in a pile of dog toys.

My favorite is the shirt that says, "Bitch Magnet".

$1500.00 Rescue Dog

2009-03-15T11:23:00.007-06:00

Rusty's Gotcha Day 3-15-07

Today is Rusty's 2 year Gotcha Day. His story is a little unusual for the average puppy that was abandoned at the local shelter along with his mother. He was lucky to be picked up by Pet Samaritans and fostered by a nice family until he was adopted.

We came into the picture because I wanted to adopt a rescue dog. I had been looking at Pet Finders.com for quite some time for just the right one. I found him when I saw the quirky picture of Rusty. I called the number and was surprised he was still available. I had heard that small puppies were adopted right away but soon learned why he was still looking for a home. He had been diagnosed with a knee issue that affected both his hind legs. His adoption would be contingent on paying for his adoption fees along with the estimated $1500.00 surgery to correct his problem. I hung up the phone thinking there was no way I could pay that amount of money for a mixed breed, rescue dog.

His picture haunted me and I couldn't stop thinking about him. Great Guy agreed to at least go meet him. You can guess the rest, love at first sight, papers signed and the card to the Orthopedic Vet we promised to take him to in hand.Rusty's One Month Gotcha Day

We got him home and he ran and played just like any other puppy. But we promised, so we took him to the Vet. The Dr. looked him over, poked, prodded and finally proclaimed, "I have tried very hard to find something wrong with this puppy, but can't." I was overjoyed! On the drive home I couldn't help but think of all the people that had inquired about Rusty but had overlooked him because of the original diagnoses. We had even hesitated. But 2 years later and a very loved part of our family, I like to believe he was just meant to be ours.

Rusty's 2 year Gotcha Day

Salt Lake Lookout Point

2009-03-05T20:24:00.009-07:00

I got up this morning totally committed to being domestic and actually dust or something that mundane. This view out of my kitchen window changed my mind. There was sunshine and new fallen snow and a snowshoe trail calling our names.
We called T & J and were at the trail head before Great Guy had a chance to polish off his first pot of coffee and I had a chance to rethink my responsibilities.I chose the Salt Lake Lookout Point Trail up Millcreek canyon because Kate and I got "bucked off " of it on our last Friday Afternoon Hiking Club and I thought I needed to get back on that particular "horse". It is one tough trail for us 50 somethings. It takes us about 3 hours to get to that evasive Lookout where you can see the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island in the distance with the whole of Salt Lake City at your feet. The snow was so fresh that no one had broken the trail yet. Lucky for us girls we had J and Great Guy to blaze ahead of us making it just a little easier to snowshoe behind them. Once at the top the incentive to hike the hour and a half down was a Burger from the Citrus Grill that was as big as my head and probably will take another hike just like this one to wear it off.

Utah Dahlia Society

2009-03-01T17:02:00.004-07:00

My two years on the Board of the Salt Lake Master Gardeners ended on December 31st so instead of resting and relaxing I agreed to be the Historian for the new Utah Dahlia Society.
I am excited to be part of the very beginning of the newest gardening society in Utah and also to learn how to grow these beauties. If you live in the Salt Lake area and would like to join in the fun check out their blog at http://www.utahdahliasociety.blogspot.com/. There are many upcoming activities including a tuber sale in April.

I hope to see you there!

Grandma's Birthday

2009-02-26T08:20:00.014-07:00

My maternal Grandmother was born

February 26, 1902.

107 years ago today.

She is holding me here on her 51st Birthday. She is 5 years younger here than I am today. Is it my ego or did people look older then? Regardless of how old she looked she was a wonderful Grandma. She was loving and patient and made the best toast. I know, toast? But she used the expensive bread and used lots of butter and toasted it just right. Other cousins might remember her rice pudding or something else but I remember her toast.

Another talent she had was crocheting. She shared that talent with any of her interested daughters and granddaughters and several of us still crochet today. That is another vivid memory; she had a chair in the corner of her living room where she would sit in the sunshine and watch the cars go by while she spent countless hours making us all special treasures.

Grandma died in 1986. We are a close family and she is a big part of the memories we all hold dear. My Mother received Grandma's wedding rings as part of her inheritance. I knew I would get them someday but was surprised when Mom gave them to me to celebrate Grandma's birthday today.

My cousin Jody gave me the idea to take this picture.

My Mother's hand wearing the ring my Father gave to her, me wearing Grandma's ring with some of Grandma's doilies in the background.

When I moved to California just before Grandma died she said,

"Please don't forget me".

I never have and never will.

Bath Day

2009-02-22T17:28:00.011-07:00

I really don't like Ruby and Rusty's bath day because it makes me feel terrible to make them so miserable. I start with one and then have to look through the house to find the other because they know it is their turn next and try to hide. Ruby was first this time so I eventually found Rusty in the basement looking like he was about to be sent to bed without any treats. Their Bath finished and soaking wet.
Have you ever seen such pathetic looking faces?Even if Rusty is tough for Ruby to tolerate, at least she finds him amusing. An hour later they are brushed and fluffed and a little happier.

Now I need a bath!

This photo of Bad Dog has nothing to do with Bath Day. I just wanted to post it because I think he is great. I am taking the liberty of renaming him "Good Dog" for the week. On this week's Friday Afternoon Hiking Club I thought it would be a grand idea to follow some previous snowshoe tracks for a short cut. Well, it wasn't and Good Dog was an innocent victim. He was noble and trusting and didn't hold it against us. He was a very, very Good Dog. If you want to read more of this "adventure" check out www.highaltitudegardening@blogspot.com

You have to promise not to tell Aunt Max if you do!

Sit, Stay....Whatever!

2009-02-17T12:55:00.019-07:00

I'm often asked how I get my "kids" to sit and pose. Well, this morning I got these pics because I was having a piece of toast sitting at the kitchen bar and they oh, so wanted a bite. It is all about the treats. Find something they like and they will follow you anywhere. The photo below was a different angle because I took the toast with me as I sat in the chair. The trick is to hold the toast and release the shutter.

Just when I thought I was in control Ruby called Rusty something terrible and all hell broke loose.

He was all, "What did you call me!!? I'm all ears!"

The Ugly Face Fight Begins!

Ruby thought Rusty needed a good lickin'.......

but Rusty thought he would like to dance.

What I would like is spring, sunshine and flowers so we could take some pictures outside WITHOUT snow!

Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T15:48:00.004-07:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

Back to Knitting

2009-02-09T16:40:00.007-07:00

During the winter I am always looking for something to do to occupy my time and keep me from going totally crazy. I prefer projects that are challenging enough to make it interesting but easy enough to still be fun. I used to knit as a child so when Wunx invited me to her knitting group I was all for it. It turned out that I still remembered the basics but learned there are things I had never used before like patterns, circular needles, double point needles and lovely natural fiber yarns.

I decided on a beginner pattern using washable wool yarn. It all started out great until......

the pattern called for the use of double point needles! Yikes, that was confusing!

I managed to finish it without too many mistakes and added a button to doll it up a bit.

I had to try for one with no mistakes.....none that I know of anyway.

Don't look too closely.

Kate the Christmas Cactus

2009-02-04T05:26:00.003-07:00

It is nice to see someone is happy.

Despite hard economic times and being smack dab in the dead of winter this gal has put on a happy face and in turn makes me smile just to look at her. Kate as I call her, named after the generous person that gave her to me hasn't always been this happy. She came to me covered in these gorgeous blooms and within 24 hours had dropped every one of them in protest to her new environment. It turns out she didn't really mean to hurt my feelings, it is just what a Christmas Cactus will do. They don't like to be moved but will reward you with a beautiful display if give them a little attention and keep them in their favorite spot.

Phenie

2009-02-01T15:16:00.002-07:00

I have a new follower to my blog so I wanted to make her feel welcome.

I love this photo of Great Guy and Phenie. She had the most kissable cheeks!!

Lessons in Photoshop

2009-01-30T17:11:00.006-07:00

I wanted to photograph Z Dog (that is his name) because I think he is one of the sweetest companions I have ever met. He is getting on in years and feeling most of them. His next birthday will be the big 15 which makes him really, really old for a dog. Maybe that was the reason he didn't want to take precious time to pose in the best light or with a better background. It was too cold outside with too many stairs to get a natural setting. Wunx recently taught me how to use layers in Photo shop so I thought I would give it a shot and put him in a patch of daffodils.

That was so much fun I wanted to mix it up with Jack, Toby and Chewy.

I need to learn how to make it look real but I had a great time practicing.

Just Because They Make Me Laugh

2009-01-29T09:54:00.004-07:00

My feet, my feet!! I can't feel my feet!!!

Sorry, Cloee.

This pic of my darling Tam's sweet Cloee would have been a great way to celebrate and remember her then recent adoption if I had only got her feet in the frame.

My brother took us on an adventure to an area in the Salt Lake Valley I had never been before. I used my dog training skills to get these cows to line up just perfect for this shot.....not!

(Thanks to Wunx for her work on this one) This rawhide bone was meant for big Toby but Ruby claimed it as her own. She knew she couldn't keep it so hid under the table long enough for me to stop laughing and take the shot.

Kate's Meme

2009-01-27T10:01:00.004-07:00

My friend Kate meme'd me. What the heck is a "meme" anyway? I had to look it up. The dictionary on-line gave me the answer:

A unit of cultural information, such as a cultural practice or idea, that is transmitted verbally or by repeated action from one mind to another.

The 6th Folder Meme Rules are:

1) Go to the 6th folder on your computer.

2) Select the 6th picture in that folder.

3) Write about it.

My computer photo filing system is simple enough. I started using a digital camera in 2002, so I have a file for each year starting then. This photo is the 6th photo of my 6th year of shooting digital:

For those of you who know my Mom the photo is self explanatory. For those who don't my Mom has the "gift of gab" and spends an inordinate amount of time on the phone. The only time you can really count on calling her and not getting a busy signal is between 10 and 11 a.m. when her "show" is on. Try calling her then.....if you really want to speak with her, but make it snappy, she doesn't want to miss a minute of "The Young and Restless".

Snowshoe Day

2009-01-24T09:53:00.011-07:00

When the air in the valley gets so thick there is nothing to do but stay indoors and sulk or head to the mountains and enjoy all they have to offer. We headed up Big Cottonwood Canyon and just about the time we hit the "S" Curve the smog and rain turned into pretty clouds with lightly falling snow. The blue skies made an effort to brighten our day.

On our last snowshoe adventure I found a puppy to match my outfit; this time TH found a cabin to compliment hers.

We were lucky to find this guy to take care of our gear while we had the best hot chocolate I've ever had that didn't have a shot of amaretto.

Peace, quiet and a great escape from life in the valley.

Inauguration

2009-01-20T11:40:00.003-07:00

HOPE

Fred and Seamus

2009-01-18T10:01:00.007-07:00

Fred was the reason we adopted Ruby. He lived across the street from us and we got to tend him when his people went out of town. We enjoyed him so much that when they returned I usually tried to persuade them to let us keep him a few more days. It never worked so we decided we should get our own puppy. Fred was about 14 when I met him and he lived several more years. When it was his time to go he left a huge hole in all our hearts.
Seamus came to the rescue. Fred could never be replaced but Seamus the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel helped to ease the pain and we all fell head over heals for the little guy. He grew to be loving and loyal with a heart of gold. And Ruby's best friend. Sadly for us Seamus and his family moved to Pittsburgh.When we adopted Rusty I was hoping for a relationship like this.......... and instead got this.

(This photo was taken when we thought Rusty's natural look was cute but we later thought better of it and took him to the groomer.)

We miss Fred and Seamus and I hope someday Ruby will more than tolerate her brother.

Weather Confusion

2009-01-14T15:56:00.007-07:00

Ruby is confused. Why are we outside today with no coats raking up the left over leaves and sticks from the old clump willows? It was just over a week ago I took this photo of her enjoying the fresh, cold snow.

Part of living in Utah is being able to golf and ski in the same week. Great Guy is so happy when this happens he can hardly contain his joy.It won't be long before these winter scenes are back. In the meantime I enjoy the break in the cold weather to get a head start on the spring clean-up.

Rusty wasn't interested in any close ups. That's him out on the frozen pond chasing the geese. We are trying to get him to stop.....maybe a 12 step program is in order. He seems to be addicted.

(I have found if you want a closer look you can click on the photo. It doesn't always work but it is worth a try.)

Matching Puppy

2009-01-11T11:33:00.004-07:00

I found this darling puppy while on a snow shoe adventure up Millcreek Canyon. She matched my new Christmas coat and hat to a tee! I wanted to take her home but her person just wouldn't hear of it. She said she got my matching puppy from a local rescue group....gotta love that.

(Thanks to TH for the photo)

Three White Dogs

2009-01-08T13:44:00.004-07:00

Once in a while we have a visitor. Wouldn't you know he is white and his name starts with "R".

Ruby, Rusty and Rocky are quite the trio. They spend much of the day protecting us from strangers that may walk in front of the house and if anyone dares knock on the door they have hell to pay.

Next time he comes to visit I think we will spare him the task of doing our taxes.

It really wears him out!

Generations

2009-01-07T18:35:00.003-07:00

Another 2008 favorite photo is of "The Three Generations of Hikers " taken at Albion Basin.

I hope when I am the age that I could possibly have a 20 something Granddaughter I will be able to hike up to Secret Lake. What an inspiration!

2008 Favorites

2009-01-05T14:46:00.013-07:00

I got started with this blog late in the year so I am not ready to let 2008 go just yet.Ruby and Rusty on the golf course with the geese.

Ruby's 10th Birthday

Ruby's 10th Gotcha Day
(We always celebrate the day we "Got Ya" )

Rusty's 2nd Birthday

Ruby at the "Petite Retreat" in California

Birthday Wishes

2009-01-04T11:25:00.004-07:00

Happy Belated Birthday Wishes to Great Guy!

The snow shoes look fabulous on you.

Grandma Aprons

2009-01-01T22:09:00.005-07:00

I have a few pics from 2008 that I want to share.

This one for example is a fond memory of last year. My Grandma used to make doll clothes for me and my cousins when we were little. She gave me about 4 yards of fabric when I bought my first sewing machine and I recognized it as my Barbie doll pajama fabric. That was about 40 years ago and I have been waiting to find the perfect project for it. Aprons made a comeback recently so I decided it would be fun to make them for my Aunts. I had enough fabric left to make the pockets for my cousin's aprons.

Grandma didn't give me enough fabric for everyone but everyone got an apron.

The best part was sharing the fabric and the memories and in a way having Grandma with us again.

2008-12-31T15:55:00.002-07:00

Happy New Year!

Griz is the perfect Puppy Portrait to end the year. She has already seen 13 of them come and go and can't wait to see what 2009 has in store.

You Go Grizzy Girl!

Bad Dog

2008-12-30T20:27:00.004-07:00

A bad hair day you might be thinking, but actually “Bad Dog” is quite famous. He needs to keep his identity under check. His person is an accomplished writer and he is an important team member on her blog. He does have a name but prefers “Bad Dog” to keep up appearances. He wouldn’t want you to know that he is a big lover boy and a terrific hiking/snow shoe companion. Don’t worry, Bad Dog, your secret is safe with me.

Canine Cousins

2008-12-29T17:37:00.005-07:00

It may take a village to raise children but I know for a fact that it takes at least my immediate family to get more than one dog to sit, stay and smile. I suppose smile is a bit much to ask, I usually settle for the sit and stay part.

These handsome fellows are Ruby and Rusty's Canine Cousins. They each have a story to tell; Jack on the left came from a home that didn't want him anymore, Big Toby has hip problems, said to be so severe that the vet advised my brother to put him down when he was only 3 months old. I wish that vet could see him jump, hunt and play now that he is 6 years old. And Chewy, the result of creative breeding with loads of love to give came from the local shelter.

Miss Zoey is our niece's "child". She has loads of personality and a face her family loves!

Christmas Traditions

2008-12-26T17:17:00.009-07:00

We have a family tradition of getting together for either Christmas breakfast or dinner, whatever fits every one's life at the time. Part of the tradition is a family photo. The one you see here is the latest and the 28th installment. We started including our dogs in 1998 because we consider them part of our family and they also provide the day's entertainment.

This is the photo that started it all. It was 1981 and Sean was 9 months old.
In 1983 Jessica was added to the family.

This picture was taken in 1993 and is significant because it is the last one with my Dad.

It started as a whim but has become a way for us to capture the moment and have a means to savor each Christmas Season we share.

SHE WEARS OVERALLS

2008-12-24T08:32:00.008-07:00

If you have read my comments you have discovered I have a friend that wears overalls. It is really not unusual, many of us do, especially those of us that spend a good amount of time working in the soil, getting our clothes and hands dirty. This particular friend is also my Master Gardener mentor. I had never heard of Master Gardeners until I took a gardening class and she was the teacher. I entered into the Program as soon as I could and did many of my apprentice hours working with and learning from Ms. Overalls. If you have ever had the opportunity to drive down State Street in Murray or walk along the Murray section of the Jordan Parkway, or be lucky enough to enjoy the many flower gardens in Murray Park you have seen her work. It is her job but it is also her passion to design and plant the many colorful displays of blooming art.

Garden at the City Building and Murray Park Rose Garden

Her talents do not end in the garden; pottery, sewing, quilting, and cooking, to name a few.

Today just happens to be her birthday.

Happy Birthday dear friend and thanks for sharing so many of those talents with me.

Hand Made Table Runner and Pottery Bowl

Jud's Rusty

2008-12-23T16:33:00.007-07:00

Meet Rusty, I know he has the same name as our dog and even had it first. When we name our pets we sometimes just can't resist the obvious. Our Rusty tricked us and turned white just so people would think we're dumb for naming a white dog Rusty. From the puzzled looks we get when we introduce him, it worked.

I have some experience photographing dogs, none for cats so I thought I would use Jud's kitty as my first. He was none too impressed so these were the best I got out of several.

I can't blame him for having an attitude.

How would you feel if your Mom

wore Christmas Mouse Ears?

Thanks for a fun party Jud!

Sunni

2008-12-19T20:48:00.002-07:00

This regal pup is Sunni. It is pronounced "Sunny" but her "Mom" just had to mess with us. Sunni is a rescue from a shelter and was said to be roaming the streets at this tender age until some nice man found her. I am so glad she found a home and happier still that she came to visit and was willing to put up with me and my camera.

TREAT!

2008-12-17T15:35:00.009-07:00

"Heel, what's heel?" We never taught them so we get this view on most walks.

Most dogs are trained to respond to "COME!"

Not ours.....we yell TREAT! and get this response.
Always from Rusty, and when Ruby gets around to it.

Thanks to Wunx and Kate

2008-12-16T15:57:00.002-07:00

I am very lucky to have two great friends that introduced me to the Blogosphere. Wunx and Kate are likely bloggers. They both are computer "geeks", a trait I envy more than I can explain. They are wonderful cooks and frequently share their efforts. Kate and Wunx also are Master Gardeners so we share the love of the outdoors and the growing season. Another shared passion is a great photo, one with perfect light that brings a smile to our faces.

Kate invented the "Friday Afternoon Club" that has manifested into many great adventures. You can check some of them out in her blog http://www.highaltitudegardening.blogspot.com/. I'm sure you will find a few future entries on this blog as well. My first ever snowshoe adventure is planned for this Friday.

Wunx has two blogs. Yes, she does have a busy life! Her first one is http://www.thewitlesswanderer.blogspot.com/. Her second is http://www.cluelesscrafter.blogspot.com/ and is dedicated to her new found love of yarn and knitting. You won't believe how accomplished she is in less than a year. To prove it check out this photo of Ruby in the coat that was custom knit just for her. She is a lucky dog!

Joining the Blogosphere

2008-12-15T14:22:00.002-07:00

I have pictures galore to share. My friends and family found their e-mails full of pictures of the furry Ruby and Rusty and others just begging for attention. It is time for a blog to end the madness. Don't be surprised to find flowers, landscapes, and other things the lens of my camera just had to capture. The world really is a beautiful place and I just can't resist the click of a shutter.

This is Ruby and Rusty. Ruby is on the left and is a 10 year old Bichon Frise. We got her when she was just 9 weeks old and life has not been the same since. Rusty is just 2 years old and is a Rescue from Pet Samaritans. We think he is a terrier mix but know for sure he is 100% lovable.

Ruby and Rusty in competition for the most snow stuck to their noses

It could be a tie.

Great Guy and "the kids". Children he said he would rather not have, now can not live without.