The Babies Step Out

While papa Austin was out this weekend racking up some points on the way to his championship, two of his little girls got their feet wet in the ring. They were shown beautifully by their junior handlers. Eric showed Maya and Ashley showed Ana. They each took turn placing 2nd and 3rd in the puppy class (out of four). A lovely showing for first timers. Congratulations Eric and Ashley. I am very proud to have you out there with the babies.

Best Buds!

Alaska and Eric hanging out at the show this weekend. They took first in Novice Junior on Saturday. Congratulations Eric and Alaska!

It's a Family Thing

You might say my father was pretty big into education. He definitely advocated for all of us to get our degrees and he even made me promise to get my PhD some day. He would be just busting with pride to see that my brother David received his MFA from California State with honors this week! Way to go David, you made us all proud.

Special Day

Nothing better than sharing my special day with my family! Here I am with two of my four footed family members Phantom (left) and Boston (right) shortly before heading to East Lansing to be hooded by MSU's College of Agriculture for my Doctorate of Philosophy in Agriculture and Extension Education. The ceremony was Friday, May 8, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. I led the processional and was the first one to receive my diploma from the president of the university Dr. Simon. I also got to meet journalist Dan Rather and was seated about twelve feet from him when he delivered his commencement address. I was joined by my husband Mike, my mother who flew in from Massachusetts and my mother-in-law. It was a very special day!

Lost and Found

On Thursday during the torrential rain, Mike called me on his way to work to tell me he saw two little dogs running down 144th. He tried to catch them but ended up having to go to work without success. I immediately grabbed some liver treats and drove down to where he had seen them. I only found one, and she was soaked, scared and not about to let me catch her. I flagged down a passerby and she told me to hop in the car and we drove down the street after the little one who was now trotting right down the middle of the road. To our amazement when the driver opened her car door and offered the treat, the little wet dog jumped into the car. I brought her back home, warmed her up and dried her off. Now we are posting signs all over, have an announcement on local radio and are trying to reunite her with her family. She is a sweet heart and you would never know she was around! Snuggles in my lap or in a dog bed most of the time.