New Years Eve

We are staying in as usual. It was very cold today. Buckets and hoses frozen. We even broke a pipe. It is going to be 13 tonight. The dogs are staying inside last night and tonight. There were even a few snow flakes mid day. The trash man didn't show up yesterday or today. Thinking of canceling them or putting trash out front as it is such a hastle with the dogs being put up, etc. Hope to have a good new years; this one is almost history.

Rain

We are having some rain this evening; sure do need it. Supposed to be snow tomorrow night. Sarah and Rob came by; also her sis and boyfriend. They got to see the pups; no touch though. Pretty boring day except for the weather; should be exciting this week!

Mexico

We went to Mexico today to get Hank's diabetes medicine. Too bad our government can't provide this for seniors. Too expensive to buy them here. The Mexican people are so friendly and polite; some even speak English quite well. Came home and finished making the pup box bigger. Beautiful day; the calm before the storm!

Camera

Hank ordered a Kodak Z981 camera today. Should take 2 weeks to arrive. It is coolish and cloudy today. We are expecting a big, big (did I say big) storm tomorrow or Wednesday? We'll see if it gets to us.

New Puppy Box

Today we made a new puppy box. It is quite a bit smaller but higher so they don't get out. Had a nice dinner of flounder. John called later in the day. Nice beautiful coolish Christmas but very quiet.

Friday in Safford

We went to Safford today to do some shopping. Also ate at our favorite Mexican place. It was a beautiful afternoon after a cool morning with heavy frost.

Welding

Hank spent most of the day with Mark teaching him to weld. They did over 100 tee posts putting the flag on them. Then he cooked steak dinner and we visited with Mark. Nice day and evening.

Rototilling

Today Hank used the disc on the fields. We had lots of weeds and needed to clear them out. We are expecting some nice rain tomorrow or Thursday. We sure do need it. Pups had their nails trimmed today. They did well. They are starting to climb out of the box.

Today

Today is definitely a day of rest. Grace walked my legs off this a.m. before she left. Going to take it easy and catch up today. Reading my new book from my friend Cheryl. It is nice to get those unexpected gifts. Puppies are two weeks old today. Looking forward to their eyes opening and taking some new photos. We might have found a home for the white girl with a nice couple in Tucson. I took some pictures yesterday before the batteries died. Thanks again Laura for a wonderful day.

Fabulous!

Yesterday was our party. We had such a great turnout and oh, the food! Laura worked so many of our dogs and did just great. Chula even worked some ducks. I'll post some photos. A great time was had by all. Can't thank everyone enough; thank you; thank you. We hope to do more of them and maybe a clinic.

Busy Friday

Today we went to the store early to get the burgers and hot dogs for the party. Came home and had burgers; then went to work on cleaning up the porch and getting ready for our guests on Saturday. It should be a fun day. We had a nice rain last night (.2") to settle the dust.

Party

Today Hank helped me clean up the agility equipment. It hasn't seen the light of day for a year or more. We are getting ready for Saturday. Tomorrow we'll shop and finalize things. Should be fun getting to see everyone and meeting new people. At least we'll have plenty of food to eat. Looks like rain or snow tonight; should be gone by Saturday.

No Water

Today we woke up to no water. There was a overload on the electrical. Frank Flanders discovered it. If it happens again he said to call the coop. Hank spent the day removing glass from the doors. I did some weeding again. Lovely days.

Weeding

Today I weeded some of the fruit trees. Beautiful day after a cool a.m. DH is working on the new doors and removing the old glass. We are going to double pane the doors in the future. Beautiful AZ day.

Friday

Puppies tail docking went well. They are doing good. Growing like little weeds. The weather has been really nice lately. Looking forward to the party on the 18th. It will be fun to see all our dog friends; do some stockwork with Laura; agility; and hanging out with friends.

Awesome Puppies

Chula had a unexpected litter yesterday. She ended up with 9 puppies, of which 2 are mismarks. They get their tails and dewclaws removed tomorrow afternoon by the vet. Chula is such a great mom and loves licking them.

Puppies

Today Chula is having puppies. They were totally unexpected til about 3 weeks ago. They are the most beautiful puppies in the world even though we have a mismark or two. She is such a good mom and enjoying being with her babies.

Warm day

Today it was warm enough to give Chula a bath. She sleeps inside in the laundry room with Misty at night. Hope she doesn't wake me up too early tomorrow. It is such a lovely day. Should hit 80 or above in Tucson. DH is making oatmeal cookies; such a good guy.

Nice day

Today it is a lot warmer outside. Still had frost and broke up ice on all buckets. Hank fixed the water leak. Found out we might be able to register Keesha with AKC. Josh is going to show someone our property this week (maybe). Keeping fingers crossed.

Terrible Tuesday; sort of

Today we woke up to no water. It was also very cold. We stayed indoors til the sun came up and the fire warmed the house. It seems a leaky pipe in the back was straying water all over the back. Turned off the water and then all was OK. We tried to start the truck to take the ram to butcher but dead battery. Hooked it up to car for a jump and then charged it in the barn. Rounded up the ram with Alfie and loaded him up. We are shopping for car/truck insurance to reduce our premiums a bit. We'll see what develops. Hope tomorrow gets warmer and no problems.

Wally

Today we received Wally's DNA certificate.
He is now Narita Farms Will to Win "Wally" DNA-VP.
It is a cold, windy day and supposed to be 25 tonight. Fires and indoor activities.

Tucson Sunday

Today we went to Tucson. We purchased 9 doors for $300 which we saw on Craig's list. We want to put them in the living room where the windows are located. Hank has his work cut out for him. We did some shopping at Costco for dog food, etc. Came home with a big following wind and dust on the playa. Sure was good to be come. The dogs were so glad to see us also. What's up with the chickens? We've been getting one a day. Come on girls; give us more eggs. Wally's sister Wish had her puppies today. She lives in MN and had 9 beautiful tri Aussie puppies.

Quiet Saturday

Today we bought 2 dog crates from a neighbor we hadn't met. She does rescue. She has a Sheltie and a Dobie. Nice crates so we can use them for traveling with dogs. It was very cold this a.m. but it warmed up to about 65 which was OK. Fed Sarah's sheep and all is well.

Happy Thanksgiving

Today is the day the Lord made. It is cold and we are going to cook a turkey. The dogs will love the leftovers too. No special plans; we'll see what develops. The man who wanted the couch never called; ram going in for butcher Monday; life is good.

Saturday

Yesterday we took Wally to the dog show. We met with some of our wonderful friends and had a great time. Wally was wonderful and accepted everything about the show except he didn't like the blow dryers. Dawn got to see him and might breed her Quiche to him. Today we retrieved the JD and got some fresh milk from Fred. The tire got off the rim again; bummer. It was a bit breezy but not cold. Marc and Rona came by to see the place and pay for their ram lamb. Alfie showed him what she could do by rounding up the sheep near the barn; good girl. She just loves to work sheep. We also got a call about the couch. The guy is coming Tuesday so we'll see. Taking the ram to the butcher in the a.m.

Glorious Friday

Today we received Wally's OFA report and it was excellent. So very excited and glad. We gave him a bath this afternoon and he was also bathed in warm sunshine. Sleeping in the laundry room to keep clean. Off to the show in Tucson to meet his intended; so very happy!!

Mobie

Today Sarah and Rob brought their dog to work the sheep. We didn't know what to expect. He has his own sheep at home that he will be working so he has seen them from the other side of the fence. We went over the guidelines for how and when he works them. After that we entered the round pen and saw that he did really nice work. He will be a joy for his owners to work in the future. First Chula had to gather them from the bigger area and take them to the round pen. Then we worked her on them for a bit before Mobie took over. It was such a fun morning.

Conformation Handling Class

Yesterday Chula and I went to Animal Watchers for Cheryl Siler's conformation handling class. Talk about being all thumbs. Finally got her to keep her feet still on the last try. There is more to this than meets the eye. We need lots of practice but it was fun seeing Tina and Val and Tati again. So many nice people around. Then the other day Dan Sanderson came to say hi. He was at Fred's buying some Barbs. He had Phinn and Diesel with him. What great looking dogs. He liked Wally's side gait. Should be fun working dogs this week; I feel inspired with the freezing a.m. and warmish afternoon temps.

OFA Friday

Today we took Wally to Dr. Pencin's office for his OFA. She thinks he should be excellent or good. We'll see what happens. Also went to Rick Huber's funeral; very sad as he was only 58 years old. We fed Sarah's little ewes. They came right up to us saying bah; bah. So very cute.

New carpet

Yesterday our new carpet was installed and it looks great. Dinner guests for supper and stargazing. Fun night.

Finally Friday

Today we spent the day cooking and cleaning. Dinner guests for supper. It was a nice day. Cool evening with rain; we sure need it.

Topper Goes Home

Today we had the pleasure of meeting Jennifer and Dean. They came to see Topper to see if he would be their next Aussie. At the end of the afternoon they took him home. He even has a big sister and a swimming pool to enjoy. He'll be doing either agility or stock; or both. Such a lucky boy!

Shopping

We took Topper and Alfie to Ace and Maid Rite today. They had fun visiting with Penny. Good to see Topper getting used to the car rides and the new people he meets. Now to find him a forever home of his own. He surely deserves it. Such a good puppy. Chula is in heat so keeping the boys separate is a challenge. The JD tire is flat again; needs fixing. At least money will solve most of our problems; ugh.

Rain

We had a bit of rain today. It has cooled off to turn off the A/C. Nothing exciting except more JD tire problems. Hope they got fixed; we'll see Monday.

Nice Thursday

This morning Hank washed the 2 vehicles as they were covered with dust. I cleaned the house and washed front windows. Nothing exciting but did get it done for now. They are getting rain in CA so hope it comes our way. For now it is about 95 and quite hot. Another cute photo of Sarah's sheep; can't believe how small they really are in relation to mine. Sheep on our ranch are starting to breed. They have been together for about a week but yesterday I witnessed a good breeding with one of the older ewes. Can't wait to see what we get in spring. This last year was a ram season; maybe more ewe lambs in 2011. At some point we need to replace our older ewes but I still like what they produce so they stay for awhile. Yesterday we received our taxes. Hard to believe they tripled from last year while the lake property went down.

Topper

Today we had a bump in the road. Marvin and his wife are coming next week. So, he got to spend the day with the girls. It was fun to see him in the barnyard again. He was respectful of the chickens but curious behind the fence. Wish our ducks had lived so we could see what he would do with them. Cindy's goats and our sheep are his favorites for now. Sandy sent me photos she took of him on the grooming table a few weeks ago. So cute and just waiting for his forever home (what's another week).

Topper Awaits New Home

Today we got a call from Marvin. He and his wife are coming Thursday. Also got a email from Virginia in Prescott Valley. Seems he is a popular guy lately. Whoever gets this little man is in for one great ride. He is such a fun puppy.

Home Again

Yesterday we got home from the lake. This time we left the dogs home alone; sure felt strange. We got lots of rain and the drive was washed out a bit. Hank fixed it today. I did laundry and chores. Back to normal after being gone 4 days. The lake was really high. That's the good news. The bad news was the state closed the park. Such a shame as it is really nice with the campground, cabins and tent camping. The weather was mild in the 70's during the day and coolish at night. We bought a fire grill and had a fire every night. Such fun and quiet nights with no bugs. Visited with neighbors up there. It is good to be on vacation for 4 days but oh so good to be home too. Thanks to Carrie, Jasper's owner, for taking care of the animals even with the rain they had on Wednesday.

Fun match

Today we took Topper to the fun match in Sierra Vista. It started off bad with Hank dropping the cake he made for Dawn's birthday. Then we arrived at the wrong park. Fortunately the people at K Mart knew it was at the Vet's park. We went there and got to sit with Sandy and Justin. It was so fun. She even clipped him a bit; went over him; and took some photos. Nice day with great friends and a BBQ also.

Friday

Dale and Nancy came by today. They bought a butcher lamb and some eggs. Hank worked on the tractor, washed the deck, and cars. Went to Bob's to finish up our taxes. We had to pay state but are getting a refund from the IRS. Dogs are glad the weather is cooler. Me too but the garden is just about eaten alive by the bugs.

Wednesday

Got up early and hooked up the horse trailer. Sent Alfie to get the rams and put them into the milk room. She had trouble lifting them off the fence. So, I went to help her and after a few minutes she walked along the fenceline. The sheep followed her with me in back. Guess all wanted a drink so they ended up going in the milkroom. From there we took out the 3 we wanted and loaded them in the horse trailer for the packing plant. It is a hot afternoon again; doesn't feel like fall at all!

Tuesday

Got a new bookcase Monday and Hank finished it tonight. Put my new books up and they all look great with the old ones. Taking rams to butcher Wednesday. Alfie will put the 3 in the horse trailer (we hope). Should be interesting.

Sunday

Today Tucker got a new name. He is named after a Star Trek character.

Star Trek Sisko, Benjamin

www.startrek.com

Star Trek Sisko, Benjamin

Funny thing is that Jerry's middle name was Benjamin. Sisko got scrambled eggs for breakfast. This dog is truly going to be spoiled; good for him.

Restful Sat.

Today Liz wrote about Tucker:

"Tucker was very good in the hotel room yesterday - a few barks - but stopped when we asked him to. He slept in the crate last night with only a few grumbles and whined when he needed to go outside. Very good boy.

He was great in the van ride home today; no problems. In fact I was impressed with how adaptable he's been. Right now he's on the sofa chewing on a chewie. Smile....good boy!

Thanks again and we'll keep you posted." It does my heart good to hear about this guy.

Yesterday Colleen delivered 8 puppies and we are anxiously awaiting photos of the little guys. So happy to know they are with ShanAnne.

Wonderful Friday

Yesterday we took Tucker to Tucson to meet his new prospective forever home. Liz and Paul brought their 2 beautiful Aussie boys. Tucker was a good boy and greeted them with a happy attitude. The boys were scary at first but he did warm to them. We left with a good feeling about his new home and the unlimited possibilities for him to excel. We did some errands afterwards and shopping. Arrived home with a good feeling. Good boy Tucker! Enjoy life on the beach with Liz & Paul.

Thursday

Today was a busy day watering and weeding. Hank finished the gate at the well to protect it from the neighbor's cows (when they get out). Sarah visited and we picked vegies. She took home some eggs too. Nice time with new neighbors. The dogs gave her a nice greeting too. Good dogs. The dogs are getting used to being outside and with the cooler weather it is really nice. Morning and nights are delightful but still need A/C during the day. No rain but guess we might have some later in the week. Colleen is due to have Sam's pups Saturday; can't wait to hear from ShanAnne. Tomorrow we take Tucker to meet his prospective parents with their 2 Aussie boys. Wish us luck for a good meeting and new home in San Diego; lucky dog.

Tuesday

After a call from Liz and Paul about Tucker Sunday, we are going to meet on Friday and see what develops. He should enjoy his new family and being in CA where it is a lot cooler and warmer in winter. Got up early and took a sunrise photo. Then Hank worked on setting the posts for the gate around the well. We got a few raindrops yesterday but want more today. Tucson gets all the rain it seems.

Labor Day

Today we washed all the dogs except the 2 pups and Sam. It was a very restful time and enjoyed being lazy for once.

Wally and Misty

We locked the dogs up in the pen near the chickens because Hank was going out the gate. Then I let the pups out to run around. Shortly after that Wally attacked Misty. She was limping and is being very quiet. We gave her a baby aspirin and she is resting in the house. We hope she is OK. It appears he got riled up when the 2 pups came near the pen and he was just protecting probably Chula. Don't know what provoked him. So sorry we put them all together.

Ride to Pinery Canyon

Yesterday we took off on a picnic. We took the road all the way through Pinery Canyon to Portal. It was very rough but well worth the trip. Rocky road with switchbacks and only passed one car. The streams were running and the sun was shining. We ended up for a burrito in Safford. Then shopped at Walmart for kitty food and came home. Hank traded Fred the rock rake for his tractor. Hank got his pressure washer. Hank also bought a new bench grinder for the barn as his gave out. Lovely day off; back to work on fencing tomorrow.
Watermelon: delicious!

Wednesday

Today is Wednesday and was beautiful. There was a coolness in the air. Hank worked on the fencing by the well and the bucket on the JD broke. A new one was ordered and should be here in a few days. Tammy called to say they were home from HI and all was well at their house. They leave in a few weeks for N.Y. to cool off from Phoenix' weather. We are staying put for awhile til the dogs get settled in outside. We have decided to ban them from the house except for meals in the morning and night. We got the all clear for Wally's registration from ASCA regarding his birthday. His new name will be Narita Farms Will to Win and we'll send in his papers tomorrow.

Tuesday again

This a.m. is about the same as the rest. We do want to get the fencing done around the well so stray cows don't damage the pipes. So far it is going slow with our dry ground. Hank is putting up R.R. ties and will fence it apart and separate when the posts are done. It is getting a little cooler in the mornings. Dogs woke me up playing; it was 69 degrees.

Boring Monday

Today is Monday and not much going on. Hank worked on the JD and I weeded, mowed the lawn, chores. Should be pretty quiet the rest of the week and the weekend. We are staying home. We are hoping to get some rain. Last night brought us about .10" which was enough to wet the ground.

Tina Miller and Kate

Today Tina brought her Aussie Kate to meet and greet. She worked the rams and so did the 2 pups. She is very interested in training and learning more.

Saturday Fun Day

Today we went to Rob and Sara's in town. They stomped their first harvest. Toured wineries with Olsons and dinner here. Beautiful day with friends.

Friday

We were supposed to go with Dale and Nancy to the winery but they postponed it. Hank did some work on the JD and I weeded near the house. Very quiet day. Hoping for some rain.

Quiet Thursday

Today was really quiet. Cleaned house and got ready for company. We had a nice evening. DH booked a chicken dinner and we sat outside to play with pups. Got a call about Topper so hope he gets a follow up buyer. He's going to make a great herding dog.

Listing Property

This afternoon Josh came and we listed our property with him. It is for a year. We are asking $7,000/acre. Should be interesting to see what develops.

Sorting Ram Lambs

Today I had Keesha and Alfie help me with sorting the 2 remaining ram lambs from the ewes. First up was Keesha. She never lacks for enthusiasm! She successfully brought 2 ewe lambs and I quickly ushered them into the stalls in the barn. Next I sent her to gather the others. She tried really hard and went back several times as I asked her to; good girl. She could not lift them from the back fence so I called her off and the water trough. Next up was my chore dog Alfie. She did get them in the barn and we sorted the 2 ram lambs off. Good job.

Tuesday; It's not Belgium

We had a nice quiet day. Josh is coming tomorrow to list our property (some of it). This is a up and coming grape for making wine region; lucky us. Hank did some welding and saw Bill Tingle. I straightened up the spare room.

Monday, Monday

Yes, today is Monday. We went to get more Raid for the bees. It started to be overcast but then cleared. Should rain tonight (clouding up again) and give us much needed water for crops, wells, etc. We went to town and stopped by The Whalens to visit. We wanted to see the new garage. It turned out nice. Love our neighbors; they are the best. Came home and had lunch with the meat from the store. Beef doesn't agree with me since I have had my own lamb. Lesson learned. My friend Cheryl is sick with a cold. I feel sorry for her as this week starts school. Also friend Jenny lost a Aussie litter; so sad. Well, light dinner tonight and a bit of detoxing that beef; barf barf barf.

Sunset

Sunday night sunset.

Bees

We have had bees in the barn for a few days. Today Hank was working on the tractor and got stung a few times. So he locked the door and left the JD running. Hope they are gone later. I picked some melons and did some weeding before the humidity and heat were too much. We got some rain last night; about .3" which is great. The internet weather says rain all week; we'll see if they are right.

Farmers Market

Today was our first farmers market in Sunsites. There was cloud cover so it was cooler. Had a nice day selling cukes, eggs, plums. Expecting rain later; we hope.

Worked Hard in the Heat

Today we worked hard in the heat. I watered the big garden twice. Hank tilled the big pasture. Watered the tomatoes; picked worms; watered other plants and weeded. The ewes are getting harrassed by the rams so I put the 3 old girls in a separate pen. One had blood on her side and was limping. The other "pretty girl" had nose skin scraped off again. Probably because of the rams so she is separate. Need to get the others tomorrow. We are off early to the farm market tomorrow. Hope we sell our stuff. Joanna will be there to help us with Wally. We are thinking of naming him Will to Win "Wally." Have to mull it over again. Got a call from Tina in Willcox. Her daughter Monica is willing to help us and show Wally for us. SHould be a fun time.

Slow News Week

This week is dragging partly because of no rain and heat. We work during the morning and rest after noon into night. We are going to be attending the farm market on Saturday. It was fun to meet Erin and Martha her mom last night. We had them work Wally on stacking and pacing. He was a bit apprehensive but did good in the end. Jean emailed me to let me know Wally had his rabies shot and booster shots in January. We didn't know in time so he had a rabies shot with Dr. Pencin on Saturday. Hope all is OK with doing that.

Wed.

More weeding; Hank grading driveway. Tonight we go to the park to meet up with Erin for conformation practice. SHould be fun. Hope Wally thinks so too. Still hot.

Tuesday

Pretty quiet morning. It was overcast and cool. Did some weeding and Hank road grading. We had a little rain late last night. Dogs got to romp and then afternoon rest before the new storms roll in (we hope).

Monday

Today we had a nice rain; exactly 1/2 inch. It was cool and breezy enough to do weeding. Took a ride out back to see everything afterwards. The roads look good and not too bad shape. Put Wally in with the puppies for most of the day and they did fine. It was a quiet day but relaxing. Love those days.

Peaches

Picked the last of the peaches today. They are covered in bugs. More plums but that is the end of the fruit. Got lots of cantaloupe to eat and cukes (both kinds). Also zucchini. Tomatoes are green but coming along nicely. Hoping for rain tonight or tomorrow.

Rabies Clinic

This a.m. we got going early and had all dogs to the clinic by 9 a.m. Wall-E; Chula; Topper; and Jack got their shots. The vet did the 2 pups in their crate in the car and the adults were as good as gold! Love these dogs; what a great day. It is very hot tonight; 103 degrees according to the internet at 7 p.m. We need rain.

Wally

Yesterday we picked Wally up. He is such a sweet boy. We kept him in the house over night but today he is outside with the girls. Such a beautiful boy but a bit shy. We will give him a bath tomorrow. Thinking of a registered name for him.

Rejection and New Beginning

Today Laura sent a email saying she didn't want Keesha. I was really sad but then realized it was a good thing. Others have emailed me wanting a pup from her and ShanAnne gave us the OK to use her beautiful boy Indigo. So all systems are on go again for pups in the fall. It will be fun as Keesha is such a great dog and the best mom. Thanks for the rejection and the new beginning!

Monday

Today was such a fun day. It started with Dale and Nancy coming for breakfast. Then off to Shadow Mountain and golf. It was a great day and no one on the course but us. Afternoon we rested up for a good movie "The Dutchess." The end of a perfect day.

Beautiful day

We had dinner with Dale and Nancy. Lovely cool morning and beautiful evening. No rain tonight so we should dry out a bit this week. Going golfing and enjoying neighbor's company.

This & That

Yesterday Dale and Nancy came by. They are such nice neighbors. They don't come often as they live in the big city. They are going to get a butcher ram from us. We'll probably do 2 for ourselves. Last night we had rain. It was crazy good; .4" total. More on the way we hope.

Hot Wednesday

Hank worked on the area around the well. We might sell the place and just save 4 to 8 acres back there for the RV, etc. It is hot; 100 at noon in the shade. Rain coming this weekend. Keesha is staying for another month; OK with us. Wally is coming from Jean and we need to work on socialization and possibly going outside from being a inside dog. Joanna Baker is willing to help so that is good. Soon we hope.

Sick

Alfie is a bit under the weather today. She has the runs and went in the house when we left. I felt so sorry for her; it wasn't her fault. She has been wanting out during the night lately. Last night she was out all night and probably ate something she should not have. So we'll keep her in the laundry room and wait it out for awhile with no food. We'll see what happens. Keesha's sale is on track with a $100 check in the mail. She'll have a great time in CO. The puppies also had a email from 2 folks today wanting to know about them. So, we'll see what comes of it if anything.

Monday; celebrate Alfie week

Today we are having mild weather. It might even rain again this afternoon. Hope we don't get any wind. The 2 male pups are enjoying the round pen minus the shade shelter. Sure nice having only 2 to feed and take care of. We want to start on sheep but it has been too hot. Nice quiet day and nothing to do but relax. We did too much yesterday and it was very hectic. Picked lots of fruit and vegies; going to enjoy them through the week.

Alfie

Yesterday was Alfie's 6th birthday. She decided to herd the chickens. We also put Chula and the black tri male in on sheep. Chula did remarkable well. She rounded them up as best she could; quit for a drink; and went back to work. Good girl. She is showing that she will be a good partner. I tried her on the sheep at feeding time. She really needs some ground work in the round pen first so we will start at the beginning and she will do much better work. One of the sheep kept laying down for her. Did the same for Keesha and she couldn't get them to love off the fence.

Jasper

Jasper went home with Carrie up the road yesterday. She has agreed to take him in exchange for doing chores for us when we go away. We had a call about Keesha too. She will be working cows in CO on a ranch if all goes well. We'll see what the future holds for her with Laura and her family if the events work out.

Cloudy

It has been cloudy all day with only a few drops of rain. Over the last few days we had .5" of rain which seems to not be too accurate. Still everything is nice and green. Picked some cukes yesterday for Hank. Not much going on today. Finally feeling better and even got cleaned up for a change. When you are sick days just float by so fast. Hank is so good about doing shopping; just didn't feel up to the trip yet. Praying for more rain with lots of clouds still around. Got a nice note from Sandy today. She named her beautiful boy Justin. Here is what she had to say:
Narita,
I named my pup Justin. Have several reg names I am considering. He knows sit and down and show stance. Working on come and sit in front.
Have u heard of a Tina Miller in Tombstone. What is the background on her dogs. Have u seen them. I think she is the lady who bought one of my pups years ago. Sandy"
Thanks for giving him such a great home. We still have 3 more to go.

Rainy Night

It was really rainy last night. It started about 4 p.m. and blew hard. Broke the Caravan shade shelter for the dogs. Hope we get more rain today. It is good for the garden. We are still getting strawberries, zucchini and fruit. I'm feeling better today and even did chores so Hank could relax a bit more. He has a sore throat and is fixing the shelter for the dogs. What a trooper.

Hay

Happiness is a barn full of hay. Blaine and his wife delivered and stacked the barn full of hay. I'm feeling better today and even cleaned the house a bit. The garden looks amazing with all the rain we have had. Seemed like the great outdoors was another planet as I haven't seen it for 4 days. Note to self: appreciate your health each and every day! Thanks Nancy for sending this great photo of Jake, aka Moose. What a happy looking guy.

Wednesday

Seems as if I lost a few days being sick. Sleep, eat and sleep and eat. Feeling better this a.m. Hope we get more rain. We had a heron fly onto one of the pines but didn't get a photo. Lots of birds flying around getting insects. Hope we get more rain today.

Sick

After a fun day with Topper, today is a indoors day as we are both sick. I got Hank's sore throat during the night. That's OK because there is nothing to water or really do (emergencies are taken care of for now). Sure hope we get some rain. Reading and indoors today; might get some rest for a change. Life is good!

Topper

Tonight was Topper's big day. First we decided on a name for him. Narita Farms Samson's Topper. Then he went to Cindy Traylor's for his instinct test on her goats. He did really well and didn't want to quit. Now we need to take him on car rides to get him used to the car.

Chula

Today Chula had her stitches removed. She was such a good girl before, during and after. Hank got the leaky pipe fixed so we filled the stock tanks and watered the trees and vegies. We should be able to visit the lake soon. This is the last weekend of our ad in the paper. We only have 3 pups left. Hank talked about giving the one with the bad eye to Carrie who works for Fred. We'll see about that.

Likely

Likely went home today. She looked so cute in her new red collar. We went to the dentist in the a.m. and I'm all done. Glad to be feeling better. We had .3 inches of rain last night. There was lots of wind, thunder and lightening also. Sam got out of the 2 big gates so we need to secure them again tomorrow. Hank fixed the smaller gate (which he didn't escape from) and also the old round pen gate. Lots of chores getting done. The melons are growing so great and we have plenty of strawberries to eat again. Fruit is almost ripe.

Exciting Day

Today we decided to take the 2 merle boys on a picnic. They didn't like the ride up the mountain in the crate. We walked them on a leash and took some photos. They rode home in our laps and did much better. We came home to await Sandy's visit to pick one of our pups for her very own. She was so happy that the one she chose "filled a hole in her heart" so she was more than satisfied. She said she would take all of them when she arrived. Then we had some nice rain to complete the end of a perfect day!

Pups on Sheep

7.14.10; first time 3 pups were on sheep; what a hoot.

Chula and the drain

We took Chula to Dr. S to have the drain tube removed. She entered the waiting room with 2 people and a bloodhound already there. She stood for the tube being removed and the vet re-fastening her cone. No growling or barking, etc. She was such a good girl. Then we went to the 2 stores and had our haircuts. We were gone for 2 hours and she did so well in the A/C'd car. Colleen is still following Sam but he isn't interested. ShanAnne will come and get her tomorrow. They had 2 ties so that should ensure at least a goodly amount of pups. Glad to have her; she is such a sweet girl.

Chula and the cone

Chula cut her side on a cattle panel yesterday. Hank left the dogs in the big garden and they ran out chasing each other when it happened. We took her to Dr. S in town for about 20 stitches. Today she has the cone on as she was trying to remove the drain tube and stitches. Hope this doesn't continue for 2 weeks. Drain tube comes out Tuesday. Waiting for more rain. Starting to cloud up but still hot this Saturday.

Dentist

Went to Tucson and the dentist today. It wasn't too bad. Very hot there. Dr. B says I can wait for the major work so surely will. Need a filling on #3.

Last Shots

Today we gave the 5 pups their last shots. Also gave the dogs their baths. Disappointed that Amber isn't coming here but she is staying with her family and that is a good thing.

Booster Bath Day

Yesterday we went to Ace Hardware 3 times to get the plumbing. FInally got it done. Now to give the final connections and baths. SHould get rain later in the week. Chula's bro Irwin wants to come work sheep. Also might be bringing home a new girl soon. Her name is Amber.

Tuesday

Went to the big city of Tucson yesterday. Did shopping and got lots done. Sue bought Checkers, aka Reason, and they are doing well together. Sue has a 16-yr old BC and they love each other. She will be a therapy dog one of these days as Sue is a nurse. Last night was DH's 85th birthday so we had dinner at Elks Club. Good food; alternative energy presentation was the reason. It was OK but not used in mobile homes.

Nice Sunday

We sold Moose to Nancy yesterday. His new name is Jacob "Jake." He will have a great home. Nancy works at Dr. Meredith's office. Jake will go to work with her every day for a year. Now we have 5 more to sell. Last night Dale and Nancy came over for corned beef and cabbage. We sat with the pups and had a great time.

Hot Afternoon with Rain

Today it should rain for sure as there are clouds and is hot already at 6 a.m. Yesterday we played with the puppies and put them in the water. Also took more photos for the local news lady to use on her noon news.

HOT!

Today we had a very hot day of 104 so far. It had promise with some storm clouds in the distance. Got a email for a female so we hope to place her this weekend. Another lady coming for a black tri male. Puppies are so fun!

New tomato plants

Finally found some nice plants at Connie's place. Planted them this a.m. It was 103 degrees this afternoon; too hot to work too long. Got some seeds planted and a few melon starts. Tomorrow should be windy; then cloudy and maybe rain Sunday; can't wait.

Flag Day

Happy Flag Day. Today we gave the puppies their 2nd series of 5-way shots. It is a lovely day and not too windy.

Sunday, June 13th

Happy Birthday Daddy. Still miss you after all these years. Blue merle female went to Amee and Danny and their nice family in Tucson. They'll enjoy her and be a great family.

Sidney

Today Megan and Charles picked up their Aussie BTF pup. Her name is Sidney and they are so excited. They live in Vail, AZ. The puppies have been relaxing in the old round pen under the shade tent. We get real strong winds so DH had to tie it down to keep it from blowing away. He tied it down on 2 ends. The puppies found the string and proceeded to chew it off. DH is going to use cable instead. Sometimes husbands don't listen to their wives. Watched the new show on Animal Planet called The Last Cowboy (or something like that). Showed real life in 3 old ranching families. I'm glad we are retired and not required to work that hard in such a harsh environment. It is a good show but not for the faint of heart. It is on for a hour on Monday nights. It will be a regular on our DVR. Hubby is working on his tomato patch and it should be a real nice one. I did some weeding in the big garden early as it has been so very hot after about 11 a.m. Looking forward to temps in the 90's (instead of 100) this weekend. Julian is coming this Saturday to see our Blue Merle Female pup. She will have a good home with his daughter. What a great dad to buy his girl a puppy.

Old Gas Road

Hank is reworking the old gas road today to make it passable and with no weeds. Pups are growing up so fast. They enjoy being in the round pen with Chula. I called Terry yesterday about Bella. She is enjoying her new puppy and claims she is so smart. We knew that though. Need to put another ad in the Tucson paper for the other 8 puppies. They need new photos also. Going to be hot this weekend; 100's predicted.

Busy Friday

Hank worked in the sheep pen with the JD. It really looks nice. I planted more seeds and watered the ones that are coming up. Lunch and then bathing the big dogs; they look great.

Wednesday

Hank sold a pup yesterday while I was at the dentist. She is a very quiet black tri girl with not much white.

Windy day today. Hank is working the sheep pens with the JD. Also waiting on phone calls from the ad I placed for Saturday. Got some calls but no follow ups yet. Desi is about the same. She has a good appetite so we'll take her tomorrow to the vet. No results yesterday after Hank waited all for 2 hours at Dr. Schroeder's office. I stayed home and waited for someone to show up for our "fun day." No one came. Reminder to self: Don't plan one of these again. My neighbor helped me with the pups and taking new photos yesterday. They are the nicest people. Hank gave them some wood we had. Also sold some eggs.

Desi

Took Desi to the vet today. She is dehydrated and might have pyrometria. Vet took blood and will let us know tomorrow. Said a prayer for her to get well again. Thank you God.

Windy Day

It is very windy today. And hot. DH fixed the chicken coop so we can get the eggs easier. I did some weeding and picking strawberries. Not much else going on today. Needed a rest after doing lots of chores and planting yesterday. Took photos of the pups too; they are soooooo cute!