everything, nothing and dogs too

Blast from the past

2012-01-04T15:18:00.000-06:00

I guess I should explain why I have put up another oldie pic. My trusty computer has been threatening to crash for about a month now and I have switched over to a newer one. Haven't had time to download any current pics though so this is a pic from 2007 that was easy to access. If I remember correctly the Bentman was 5 going on 6 in this pic. Obviously we didn't live here on the Gulf Coast either- the location would have been West Texas where it snowed occasionally.

For all of you that have asked about the Bentman's health, he is getting better. It has been a long road and there are still some obstacles to face but all in all we are thankful that he even made through last summer. After a heavy round (5 months) on prednisone he gained up to 94 lbs. His happy weight is around 80 lbs so we have been monitoring food intake and exercise and he is back to about 84 lbs. The specialist (last visit in late November) said it is possible that the prednisone induced Cushings. Our regular vet will test him in a few weeks to see. Hopefully not but his body shape hasn't changed too much even with the weight loss. He also had some funky readings that showed borderline Addison's but everything was so whacked in the fall the results could have been false positives. The weakness and muscle atrophy is not as severe as it was and his gusto for life (not just food) is back! He's back to waking up with Kris at 4:30 or 5:30 am and if I am not up in what he considers a timely manner I wake up to the biggest Woofer at my ear telling me it is breakfast time and the biggest wet sloppy kisses you can imagine. Yep- gotta love 'em.

Anyway, just wanted to give all of you a quick heads up. Now I need to go bag a few thousand leaves that are still falling from the trees. I don't know about ya'lls weather but ours is really screwy and all the plants are confused here on the Gulf Coast. There is one tomato plant leftover from the summer and it has about 20 green ones on it that I am hoping will ripen. It is one of those yellow heirloom varieties and I have decided it is a winner. Plan on planting quite a few of them in the spring.

And last but not least- all of the 4-legged's, Kris, and I wish you a wonderfully healthy and happy New Year of 2012!

Till next time,
Karen Raye and Bentley Beargrass

An oldie but a goodie

2011-12-20T08:24:00.000-06:00

I know that some of you may remember this picture from a couple years ago but since 2011 has had its share of hills and valleys with 4-legged health issues and trying to get the Bentman, Roux, Bridgette, and Walter to pose together without me pulling out my haire or theirs, I decided a repost of an oldie (pic) was in order.
Some of you may not know that Little Jax left us for the Rainbow Bridge this year in November. His absence leaves a giant hole in our daily life. Jax always loved to sit under the tree. It was his his domain and he looked so precious there. I am pretty sure that he is looking down on us from his beautiful star in the heavens and wishing us a Merry Christmas too....
So I hope everyone in Blogger-land has a wonderful holiday season. Love and Peace to all of you!

Till next time,
Karen Raye

The rest of the "Things I am thankful for" list...

2011-11-24T07:28:00.000-06:00

My list should have numbered 100 but sometimes I make an oops when I copy and paste. Laughing at myself again...Have a great Thanksgiving!

72. My aunt Loretta and the love she shared with my Uncle Henry.

73. Remembering my Mom’s passion for life.

74. The hill country in Texas

75. Roller coasters

76. That God gave me lots of patience…

77. Kris needing me to fix the pie crust and make it pretty!

78. AssistHers

79. People that volunteer to help others.

80. Foster dog failures that were meant to be

81. Bird of Paradise Yankee Candles

82. My 2 vacuum cleaners

83. Good steak on the grill

84. Sunshine

85. Big orange harvest moons

86. Winnie the Pooh

87. Dr. Seuss

88. People that remind me of Eeyore

89. Old lesbians

90. Not being afraid of life

91. Really cool shoes

92. Giraffes

93. The way Kris cooks ham when I am craving it.

94. Borden’s egg-nog

95. Hot dogs over a wood fire on Friday nights

96. Road trips with Kathy and Kaylyn

97. Sitting in the truck head banging to Devo’s Whip It song with them

98. Visiting with good friends

99. The knowledge that there is so much more than just this list that I am thankful for

100. Adam Sandler’s The Thanksgiving Song

Random thoughts on what I am thankful for...

2011-11-23T17:14:00.000-06:00

1. That no matter how I slept the previous night, I woke up to participate in another day.

2. That there are people that love me for all my pros and cons.

3. That my wife loves me more and more every day

4. I have sweet beautiful 4-legged creatures that share our home with us.

5. There is food in the fridge and pantry.

6. There is food to feed the 4-legged’s.

7. I can type all this into a Word document instead of having to handwrite this.

8. After working out this last semester in PE classes, my arms are getting firmer and my thighs have lost their dimples.

9. That I have wonderful memories of a Grandmother that loved my sisters and I very much.

10. That Dad and I have repaired our relationship that was so broken.

11. Happy that I repaired my broken self-image that occurred from poor decision-making.

12. That I finally learned to forgive myself first so I could forgive others.

13. That I learned to not feel guilty for being unable to help those that won’t help themselves.

14. Icy cold root beer

15. That I am able to cook and bake whatever I want.

16. That I’m able to laugh at recipes that don’t work out so well.

17. To be able to laugh at myself.

18. To find joy in most everything.

19. My garden.

20. Home-grown tomatoes and the song about them that I sang to my Dad for his birthday one year.

21. The fact that he doesn’t think (or at least show it) that sometimes I am just plain goofy.

22. That Kris tells me this is one of the reasons she loves me so much.

23. That I like myself.

24. That I love my life.

25. Kris’s sweet smile.

26. That I make her laugh.

27. Music and how when I dance around the house and sing, Roux gets excited and dances (doggie style) with me.

28. How no one that really loves me cares when I sing off-key.

29. School

30. Scholarships

31. Good grades

32. Algebra. Need to explain that one. The fact that I can enjoy the challenge and not get so frustrated that I give up.

33. My classmates- even the young ones that have no idea what life can throw out at you.

34. That no matter what you think you’ve experienced, there is always something that you have yet to learn.

35. Buc-ee’s Icee’s (Coke mixed with cherry)

36. Homemade bread from my sourdough starter.

37. The neighbors and family that never tire of me taking them bread.

38. My health.

39. Sisters

40. Nieces and nephews

41. My crazy dog friends that do rescue.

42. Hard cider.

43. Gulf Coast shrimp.

44. The beach and the sound of the ocean.

45. Cooking with Valerie and Kris for the holidays.

46. See’s Candy (especially the caramel marshmallow thingies)

47. Spending time in New Orleans

48. Good advice from Ellie

49. Jeans that fit well

50. Getting to know Marie before she died

51. Lobster in Maine

52. 17 years of Memorial Day weekend with good friends.

53. A clean house

54. And a really big bathtub to take long relaxing baths in.

55. Trees

56. The cows in the fields on my way to school (they are so pretty)

57. Scary movies

58. Butter

59. Peppermint ice cream

60. Friday mornings with Kris

61. El Toro (best Tex-Mex ever)

62. Lindy’s accordion playing ability

63. The fact that the woman can play anything on it too.

64. Sanity

65. Cooler weather

66. Reading a good book

67. Libraries

68. Curly headed Airedales

69. People that smile back at you when you are driving down the road.

70. All the birds that migrate through our area.

71. A really good Vet (Dr. Kivney)

Got green beans?

2011-09-21T13:35:00.000-05:00

It requires three lb. cans these days...


To feed the Bentman a healthy snack!

Now mind you, he doesn't get the whole can all at once and he does shares with his 4-legged brothers and sisters but it is the most cost effective way I can keep him from eating us out of house and home. And don't get any ideas about me letting him counter surf- not in this house. Bentley has never figured out that he can jump up there. Yet. Though he has figured out how to open trash cans, cabinet doors and get stuck in the back bedroom because he has become a nosy butt. Think the meds are working and he is becoming a real Airedale again. He has even begun playing with his little sis Roux lately...watch out, she's not so little anymore (70 lbs.) and ready for some football!

Till next time,
Karen Raye and the gang!

Did somebody say football?

2011-09-18T12:42:00.000-05:00

Hi ya'll!
Just a quick note- supposed to be working on Algebra homework...but wanted to say I'd rather be watching the Steelers, Saints, and Texans! And an update on the Bentman- he is doing fabulous. Of course he thinks he is starvin' marvin' these days due to the ongoing dosage of prednisone for another 3 weeks. Massively loud WOOFS for FOOD these days! The two cones of shame were retired and he has only one more follow-up at the surgeons office, then it is back to the regular nice lady Vet.
One other thing is the hummingbirds are migrating down this way in our part of Texas so I'll leave you with a picture or two of our littlest angels!

Hope everyone had a great weekend!
Till next time,
Karen Raye and the biggest woofer (Bentley)

I have been refilling this feeder 3x a day this weekend.


I think they like the newest feeder also!

So far, So good...

2011-08-29T09:42:00.000-05:00

Just a quick note to update the Bentman's progress. He had that big 'ole spleen removed last Tuesday and the surgeon said results from biopsy will be back this week sometime but all in all it looked pretty decent without any obvious masses. They kept him till Thursday and was he ever happy to see me when I went to pick him up after school. Of course it was quite a shocker to see him with that giant cone on his head but the incision freaked me out a bit more. I was instructed to take the bandage off within two to three days so I took it off on Saturday and finally got a good look at the incision. No unusual redness or swelling thank goodness. And here it is, too much information of course but he pooped on Friday- 2 days before they said he might. WooHoo. Never thought I'd be so happy to pick up poop but it meant that certain things were working well.

The hardest part with five 4-legged's is keeping them calm and separated from each other. As of yesterday we let them have supervised time together with no play just checking each other out and it went well. We have to continue on this supervised schedule for a few weeks though. Feeding time is a real b%$&* around here because of special diets to coat tummies, control sodium, etc. but I have it down to a science or at least I think I do.

1st day home

The other thing to report is Bentley had been having some pain that I was unaware of from the TBD poly-arthritis flaring up again and being really grumpy towards Roux. The specialist did put him back on 800 mgs of doxy per day and bumped the pred back to a whole tab a day (20 mg). Can we say 'Roid rage? Hate steriods but they are a necessary evil in this case.

This will probably be a constant battle for awhile but at least we know that his spleen will not rupture and can control the arthritis pain with tramadol as needed. And- he is tolerating the two different e-collars as well as he can. Without sounding mean, it is quite amusing to see him maneuver around in the giant cone that he has to wear during the night while we are sleeping or if we are gone from the house.


Night time cone of shame

Other than some extra stress we are hanging in there. I sincerely hope all of our friends on the east coast were not impacted horribly by Hurricane Irene. Down here on the Gulf coast we deal with tropical storms and hurricanes often and know just how devastating and frightening they can be. Sending prayers and Aire'Zen to all of you in Irene's path. Take care and hug the ones you love!

Till next time,
Karen Raye

Zombie leg?

2011-08-11T09:00:00.000-05:00


Been there for months...

Last night Kris and I drove up to Pearland to meet some friends for dinner and left the 4-legged's to their own devices. When we came home, the 4-legged's were woofing and happy to see us like usual but the most amazing thing occurred...
In the corner of the dining room by the hutch is an old prop (ZOMBIE leg) that the Mama's used a few years back in the 1st Annual Zombie Walk for the Houston Food Pantry (lots of fun - great cause). Since we have an odd sense of humor, it has been strategically placed in our house to see just how alert our various guests are when they come to visit. At this point in time, only 3 of them have ever taken the bait and one of them is my Dad. He is quite aware of my sense of humor... Anyway...
Back to the story. When we came in the house last night the biggest Woofer (ya'll know who that would be) decided to take notice of the leg and grabbed it like it was a new toy. I almost died laughing and couldn't get the camera in time to snap a picture. Needless to say, I had to retrieve it before the Bentman and his Roux decided to have their very own Zombie leg eating festival.
(Disclaimer- I know some of you think this is gross- Sorry- we love Zombie flicks in this house).
I am thinking my Bentman is regaining his ornery attitude and acting like the silly clown he used to be. I also noticed (after scissoring him on and off for hours) that his beautiful haire is coming back and the color is deepening. And of course he is back to WOOFING (really loud and deep) all the time about everything like he used to.

HALLELUJAH- my Bentley Boy is back and he's starting to get in trouble- Hey la - Hey la - my Bentley Boy is back!

So I had to share and thank everyone for all the good wishes. Now all we have to do is get him through the spleenectomy on the 23rd and WOO-HOO he can be as goofy as he ever was!

Have a great week and hug the ones you love!

Till next time,
Karen Raye

Mean Mama took it away...notice that look of contemplation?

Monday morning bread...

2011-08-01T14:42:00.000-05:00

Not just another manic Monday but bread day. Potato bread to be exact. I have been perfecting my bread baking skills for a few years trying to tweak my cooking talent in different directions and what could be better than to follow in my Mom's footsteps of bread baking. My better half informed me that her favorite's that I bake is fougasse and the potato roll recipe that I finally perfected. Since there are always too many rolls left over- even when I send some to the neighbors, I decided to make 2/3 of the dough into a loaf to slice for sandwiches.

.

The big pot on the stove is an all day affaire of homemade spaghetti sauce that I'll put up in the freezer for real manic Mondays, terrible Tuesdays, wacky Wednesdays, terrific Thursdays, and finally fabulous Fridays. Works for whatever day during the week you don't have time or the inclination to cook. I like to throw together any of the flat-breads (Italian or French) and put some of the sauce and some good stinky cheese on it for a quick pizza. If I am real lucky, I'll also have enough tomatoes from the garden to whip up some bruschetta or my old standby, pesto from the three basil plants that have been quite generous this summer.

Uh oh- look who showed up. The Bentman now thinks the kitchen is his own personal domain. It is impossible to go near the kitchen without him making an entrance. Then he just hangs out waiting to see if he can look really pitiful and get a snack of something good and this is a dog that learned my command of "Out of the kitchen" when he was a wee pup. If the pitiful poor me look doesn't work out for him, he just plants himself - like this, see below - until someone comes back and then it starts all over again...doG help us. I think we have at least three more weeks of prednisone. Aaaagggghhhhh!!!!!

Not really complaining though. We are really glad he is interested in life (translate to food) again! Hope you have a great week and will get back to you soon!

Till next time,
Karen Raye

Quick update for Saturday

2011-07-23T10:03:00.000-05:00

The specialist called on Thursday and said the Bentman's joint fluid was thin, watery and dark instead of thick and light colored like a motor oil. So he called in the scary Prednisone pills to the local pharmacy and Bentley started them on Thursday night. No problems as of this morning and he is starting to behave a wee bit more like himself but not really letting Kris or I out of his hearing or sight. The appetite is definitely improving as it should be since I have him and the little Jax man on a special food mix of brown and white rice with chicken and carrots. I boil it all together so everything has a nice chicken flavor then when it is time to eat, I mix it with some lamb and rice kibble. In Bentleys case, it has 8 pills (antibiotics/ Pred) and the little man Jax gets his fluid pill. Jax was diagnosed with a heart murmur and congestive heart failure a month ago. Yeah, it has been a month of news I'll say...
Of course , the three other 4-legged's get a spoon of the special mix stirred into their bowls because it just wouldn't be fair to not share the wealth of yumminess, would it? Plus there is the fish oil, pro-biotic, and Pepcid that has to be added to the Bentmans bowl to keep his tummy in good shape. Whew! It is worth it though....♥

I have to say that feeding time is quite an interesting experience around here. Everyone gets excited and it is nice to see Bentley interested in food again. Can't wait to see him in action when the Prednisone really kicks in - appetite wise, that is. Going to have to figure out a way to keep him from becoming a chunky monkey because he is not allowed to be out in the sun too much because of all the antibiotics and this cuts out some of our means of exercise.

Thanks for all the well wishes too. It has helped to lighten our hearts to read the sweet comments. Hope everyone has a great weekend! Hug your 4-legged's and give them an Aire-kiss from the Bentman.

♥ Till next time,
Karen Raye

Need some Zen...

2011-07-20T07:47:00.000-05:00

Prayers too. Bentley is on extremely high dosage of Doxy as of last night. Four pills in the morning and four at night. The specialist passed on removing his spleen for awhile due to possible chronic stage of some type of ehrlichia. The specialist did take samples of his joint fluids that we will get results back on - hopefully Monday. And we should get bloodwork information back from University of North Carolina today or tomorrow.

We are worried and I am trying not to be angry at previous vets for not taking me seriously when suggesting that maybe he was relapsing from his run in with tick fever back when he was three. This is a serious disease that is silent and deadly. The symptoms are so vague- lethargy, intermittent limps or soreness in one limb or another, just acting odd, not playing as much, CBC's not quite wrong but not quite right, and so much more.

Ever since I saw what tick fever could do to a dog (my ex's parents Weimeraner in West Texas), I became aware of this disease's ravages on a canines body. I took measures with Preventic collars, Advantic, and sprayed the hell out of the property with stuff from the vet's office. I thought I was vigilant and the new vet and the specialist assure me that I was but there was no way of knowing that Bentley hadn't recovered from his initial bout and the disease had gone dormant.

I am scared because it appears to be chronic and that is not a good sign but there is a chance that we can turn this around. I just want you to be aware and follow your instincts when you know your 4-legged friend is not quite right and insist on testing for tick-based diseases no matter what the vet says. At this point, Bentley has been tested for Cushings, Addison's, Hip Dysplasia, x-rays, ultra-sounds, and even acupuncture treatments for what was thought to be spinal problems. All of his symptoms are classic TBD (tick based disease) results including the enlarged spleen.

I will keep you updated and plan on passing on informational links as I learn more. Take care and give your 4-legged's a hug.

Till next time,
Karen Raye and Bentley Beargrass

Countdown to surgery

2011-07-14T15:05:00.000-05:00

Roux staying close to her Bentley...

For the Bentman. After numerous visits and dollars later plus firing two Vets.and going to one back in Houston(an hour away)it has been determined that Bentley will have his humongous spleen removed next week. It apparently has harbored chronic ehrlichia since he was three even though he was treated for it back then when we lived in West Texas doG- I hate that part of Texas (not really). Anyway, it is the cause of his muscle weakness (back legs and front legs now). He is currently not amused because he is not allowed to get on his couch or the 2-legged's bed. This is because he could hurt the humongous spleen and cause another bleed.  The Vet that I fired missed infection in anal gland and bladder infection so he is getting through that on top of everything else. But- not gonna blame- it is what it is and we are going forward. 

I say countdown because all of this was found out on Friday and Monday from the new and wonderful Vet- Dr. Kivney. I didn't expect miracles but this lady has explained so much in 2 visits and 5 phone calls that I finally have hope that my boy will get better. Of course I am nervous and watching him like a hawk. So, we are at 5 days till the 8:30 AM appointment with surgeon next Tuesday. 

Wish us luck and send some Zen so the Bentman recovers nicely and can return to playing once again with his goofy, doofus 'lil sister Roux.....its been a long road to getting some answers and she wants to play with him again.

Till next time,

Karen Raye

Spring is in the Aire

2011-05-05T09:42:00.001-05:00

Better late than never! The weather is beautiful here in Lake Jackson but there hasn't been nary a drop of that stuff we call rain. I know that many parts of the United States are getting more than their share and I hope that everyone is safe and dry.
We are getting ready to drive down to Florida to see family and stop in New Orleans on the way back in to Texas for a few days to celebrate my big 50 with friends. The Bentman and gang will be hanging out with one of their Auntie's while we are traveling.
By the way the Bentman is on a trial run of thyroid supplement for the summer after numerous tests that ruled out hip dysplasia and Cushings. His thyroid panel shows borderline or low results. He has already been on the pills for a week now and showed definite improvements after just 4 days. A few months ago he started losing his balance in his back legs; severe weakness and arthritic symptoms, severe lack of interest in most everything, and pain. I corresponded with some lovely people in the Airedale world that recommended some bootie shoes called Muttluks made in Canada. Found them at Petsmart for lots of dollars but they are the best fit after trying on various brands. He wasn't real amused for the first few hours, bucked like a mule but then he adjusted, has re-established his footing, and is getting stronger everyday!
Bentley is getting back to his old self playing bitey-face with his sis Roux, playing with toys, woofing (really BIG vocalizer) again, and engaging in life with all that love him. So thankful!
Anyway, I know this post is short and sweet but I will try to post more often now that summer is on its way. It has been just one crazy and eventful year so far. Nothing new, huh?
Take care and till next time-
Karen Raye

In honor of St. Paddy's Day!

2011-03-16T15:09:00.000-05:00


I'm wearing my kilt.

Just for you.

Hanging out with pretty wenches.

And a really cool guy too!

And no, I don't have on any underwear!
Have a Happy St. Patrick's Day!

A Long Time Ago

2011-03-09T20:12:00.000-06:00

We lived here at this house. Well, actually it was only two years and one month ago give or take a few days. Guess what? Sold the other house 'cause the 2nd momma was transferred back down to her office on the coast and we moved again. The momma's said we are never moving again until it is time to retire. And boy are we ever glad! This place is pretty cool though. There is a lot more room and not one but two yards to find interesting things to check out though we are only allowed in the other yard when we are supervised because there is a funny blue plastic thingie that has water in it that the momma's say will help cool them off because it gets so hot and humid here in the summer time. And they call it the secret garden- whatever that means...Apparently it has something to do with lots of colorful plants that we are extremely interested in- especially the Roux. She can't keep her nose out of anything. I've nicknamed her nosy rosie these last few month's.

Anyway, I wanted to give you a head's up that I am back in business and will be blogging more regularly now that I am back in black (loved that band). Got lots of pics of the newest renovations on the house. We're going retro 50's for the kitchen and dining room. Hated the floor though when they put it down. They had to accommodate me for a few weeks with a hundred little rugs because I wasn't real sure of that weird new floor. The momma's said I was a little strange but I don't agree. The Bentman just takes a little time to adjust to different floors- know what I mean?

So I'll be back soon 'cause I missed all of you, my blogger friends!
Sincerely your friend,
The Bentman and my
4-legged cohorts in crime ~
Roux, Bridgette, Walter, and
little man Jax (he wouldn't let me get a recent pic)

Supposed to be a secret...

2010-12-30T21:03:00.000-06:00


What do ya say we go raid the cookie jar?

Thoughts on the past....

2010-12-23T11:27:00.001-06:00

Hi ya'll. I know it's been awhile and I've missed reading everybody's posts over the last few month's but I've peeked a few times when time has allowed. I promise we'll get back to posting more often. Everything is good here in Houston. Warm as usual and all the 4-legged's are doing well. Kris and I are doing great too. Lot's of family here for the holidays and it is business as usual! I wanted to share this FB post of mine from this morning~ It has been in my head for over a year now and I felt it was time to write it down.

Hugs from Houston-town,
Karen Raye and Bentley Beargrass
and Roux, Bridgette, Jax, and Walter Woo too!

I found this poem many years ago when I was on the hunt for information on anything Airedale related. My big old lug of an Airedale named Luke had moved on to the glorious fields of heaven and had left me heartbroken. My sorrow was affecting Bentley and both of us were depressed. I felt that he needed a companion but it was mostly my own pain and emptiness I was feeling when I reflect back on it now. Long story short, life intervened in ways that brought me great joy and peace but in my research I found an old website that wasn't current but had the funniest stories about a man and his dog named Mr. Woofer the Airedale from Hell. Unfortunately he wasn't writing the stories anymore that I was aware of but I enjoyed them nonetheless. The escapades of Mr. Woofer sparked my imagination and strengthened my love for the Airedale breed. Somehow I stumbled across more of this authors work while searching for more of his penmanship and found what I think is his cowboy poetry. Maybe it isn't but that doesn't matter because if not for him I'd never have found this poem. In my imagination it made sense that he had written this poem because in my mind he had become a wise and interesting man that had become disillusioned with the human condition over a lifetime. I don't know. Maybe I am completely wrong but it doesn't matter except for the fact that his writings and poems gave laughter back to my soul. I was able to remember without too much pain the wonderful times Sir Luke the Airedale had shared with me. I was able to pick up the broken pieces of my heart (many causes) and slowly put them back together. Bentley and I healed albeit slowly and completely.

Skip to a year or two later- my Dad and I weren't on the greatest of terms due to poor decision making and stubbornness of the human kind. I guess you could say both of us might have been guilty, it really doesn't matter now. I'd always remembered the poem by the Airedale man and thought that it described my Dad. I wish to share it with you today. I sent it to my Dad awhile back with a long letter about life. We are good now. It has taken some work but it has been worth it. Nothing is ever perfect or easy or the same as it used to be but that is OK with me. I find that we evolve and change throughout our relationships with loved ones. All that really matters is that you are able to do this.

Thanks Charley Sierra (aka Chuck Shaddoway) for helping me with my Dad. May you rest in peace Cowboy Poet and Mr. Woofer's Dad.
And Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Joy to the World, Peace on Earth, etc., etc., etc. Call it what you may, just remember to love. and forgive. and heal yourself of the hurts that life doles out. and be kind. It is important.

A Christmas Poem

Christmas is a-comin' soon!
Pardner, ain't ya seen?
The decorations showed up
In the stores on Halloween!

The papers just plumb fulla ads;
Some days it's three feet thick!
That's good-we got a woodstove,
'N' we're short on kindlin' sticks.

The kids all hope that Santa
Brings 'em ever'thing they chose;
"I want a Nintendo!"
"Please don't bring me any clothes!"

The Sally Army's out in force,
A-tunin' up their band;
I always drop a dollar,
'Cause they once gave me a hand.

There's some who say we've lost the track,
'N' don't know rhyme or reason,
That all this hooraw overlooks
The spirit of the season.

They point 'n' say I don't believe,
'Cause in church ya'll never find me;
But I don't need no hymns, or prayers,
Or crosses to remind me.

This year, I think I'll try
What one ole cowpoke used to do;
I'll saddle up, 'n' leave a note:
"Back in an hour, or two."

I'll ride west outta Reno,
A-followin' the river,
'Way up into the mountains
Where the air's so cold it shimmers.

Far away from stores 'n' crowds,
Where the only single sound
Will be my pony's muffled steps
Through the snow upon the ground.

'N' when I reach the perfect spot
(I'll know it when I'm there),
I'll doff my hat, 'n' feel
The icy wind blow through my hair.

I'll find the brightest star that night,
Gaze up at it, 'n' say,
"Happy Birthday, Boss,"
'N' then I'll softly ride away.
Written by Charley Sierra

Voicing his opinion as usual!

2010-12-08T07:09:00.000-06:00

It doesn't scare Me!

be back soon....

2010-11-17T07:12:00.000-06:00

Bentley Beargrass in a kilt!

Just a quick Hello to everyone out in the blogging world! Hope life is treating everyone well!

Aire-hugs to all,
Karen Raye and the
four-legged gang in
Houston-town!

Dogs Rule

2010-09-15T16:02:00.001-05:00

Our friends over at Life With Dogs asked us to help to spread the word! Read all about it:

How often have you had a chance to have a 20 pound bag of dog food donated to a shelter simply for writing a blog post? It’s really that easy. Pedigree has upped the ante big time. And please spread this message: The food drive is not limited to pet blogs. Imagine if we could spread this message beyond our circles and see how far it goes? The numbers could be substantial. Here is the full scoop with two links to check out:

Each year, more than 4 million dogs end up in shelters and breed rescue organizations. Pedigree created The PEDIGREE Adoption Drive to help shine a spotlight on the plight of these homeless dogs.

This year the PEDIGREE Adoption Drive is raising awareness for homeless dogs by donating a bowl of food to shelter dogs for everyone who becomes a “Fan” or “Likes” The PEDIGREE Adoption Drive on Facebook. So far more than 1 million bowls have been donated.

A message from Roux: I'm a former shelter girl living the life!

Special for BlogPaws West: For each blog that posts about the PEDIGREE® Adoption Drive through September 19^th, PEDIGREE® will donate a bag of their new Healthy Longevity Food for Dogs to shelters nationwide. It’s simple: Write a post, help a dog.
So please take a moment to paw the information forward, it could save a Life!

And remember - DOGS DO RULE!

4-Legged's Down Under

2010-08-26T19:02:00.000-05:00

Are hosting a GIVEAWAY for their friends in Celebration of their 100th post and One Year Blogging Anniversary! Can you guess who it is? It's Inky and Molly in Geelong, Victoria, Australia! Something fun for the 4-legged's and something for the pinkie too! WOO-HOO! So go visit their blog to read all about their Molly Giveaway and NO- don't get too excited, they aren't giving Molly away or her tail. She is quite content in Down-Under Land and will stay there with her own pinkies and Inky-Dale, thank you very much. So go make new friends and have a great end of the week!

See ya later alligator,
Karen Raye and
Bentley Beargrass

Not too much

2010-08-25T17:57:00.000-05:00

Damaged fence from attack of Mr. Ed

Going on this last week but we did have some excitement over last weekend. Friday night we were hanging outside on the back porch and heard a big thump from the front of the house. Kris went in to check and as I was looking across the backyard at the fence, I saw a big horse head looking over frantically. Now mind you, we have a 6 foot high wooden fence so I wasn't sure if I was really seeing what I thought I was seeing. I ran into the house and out the front door just in time to see the horse being roped by one of two men in the street right in front of our house. The poor horse was bleeding on its head and side and I asked the man if the horse was ok. He nodded and the other man came and took the horse back down the street while the the first man got into his truck and drove behind the 2nd fellow. I looked around and saw many of our neighbors standing in their driveways watching this interesting scenario. Anyway, I waved and went back in to get some A/C while shaking my head at the strangeness of it all. Later that night, 10:30ish, we got a knock at the door and it was our next door neighbor asking what had happened, it looked as if a car had gone through our front chain link fence on his side of the yard. We had no idea what he was talking about and went out to see what was up. It wasn't what was up, it was what was down- our fence. Apparently the horse had gotten spooked before it came to our back fence and run head on into the chain link fence in the front yard, and flipped taking the fence with him. That's where the cuts had come from. The thump we'd heard was him kicking terrified into our garage door as he ran down the sidewalk on the side of our house towards the backyard. In my moment of surprise and confusion earlier, I'd completely missed noticing our fence laying over in horsey disrepair.
The next morning we played private investigators and tracked down where the horse had come from. Fresh horse poop on a dead end street and my remembering seeing a horse about a week ago in an unsecured looking field helped and Voila- we found him, got the address of the land he was safely pastured in, looked it up on city tax records, and paid a visit to the property owners. The family is from El Slavador and didn't speak much English but I spoke with one of their kids and found out the horse was ok. Talked to the Dad on their phone and made arrangements to get the fence put back up. Everything worked out fine but let me tell you- you just don't expect to see Mr. Ed looking over the fence at you whilst living in the big city of Houston-town! Well, I say that laughingly now because the previous week we found out we had bats in our our chimney and had to relocate them. It took a little bit of research and a few days but we did it with the help of sonar devices. I even felt bad that they had to find a new home but you just can't have bats in your belfry. I'm beginning to think I live in the Wild Kingdom or something....

Till next time,
Karen Raye


Bentley's "I am alarmed- there is something way bigger than me out there	" look!

Hectic week...

2010-08-20T10:45:00.001-05:00

So I am going to take a shortcut and give you a link to my partner Kris's blog. Not being lazy and it wasn't all bad but this week has gone to hell in a hand-basket! Bring you up to date on that another day. Her synopsis of our wedding and trip is fantastic and I am unable to do a better job of her description. So if you are interested in reading her version, click here http://whyallthecontroversy.blogspot.com/ The blog is called "Life is Fantastic!" and it is! There are approximately 3 or 4 posts to read before the most current one. The last one she posted is funny and about our 4-legged's. I hope you take the time to check out her blog. I promise I will get back to posting something current on mine soon. I hope everyone has a great weekend and stays cool. August has turned into a scorcher here in Houston-town and the humidity is making me melt....

Till next time,

Karen Raye

More New England in the Summer time...

2010-08-10T08:35:00.002-05:00

Right now I am wishing we were still there enjoying some of that nice weather. And one of those yummy lobster rolls...hmmm...guess I better make some breakfast soon. I found out what I will need to recreate the special hot dog buns that are used all over Massachusetts and Maine for the various foodie items we sampled. It is a special pan that I can order from King Arthur if they had them in stock but since they don't, I will get one from Amazon from American Pan, made in Pittsburgh which is a plus since the Steelers are big in this house. Then we will see if I can make a bun as good as the ones we sampled with our dogs up east.

Anyway, back to our fantastic trip. We flew into Boston arriving at 12:45 am due to delays in Houston-town. Never fails when flying out of Houston we get delayed for at least an hour on the takeoff. No big deal because I napped and then finished reading my Pride and Prejudice and Zombie book that I've been trying to get to since last Fall. When we got in to Boston, we got our car and drove directly to Salem. We stayed at the Salem Inn- actually their Peabody House- pronounced kind of funny- you say it real fast and in one syllable- not in three like we do here in Texas. The next morning we took the trolley and checked out the town, went to the city hall, and found Winter Island http://www.salemweb.com/winterisland/ where we decided to have our ceremony.

Over the next three days we toured Salem and Boston with Kris's Mom and her brother and his family. We had a wonderful time being tourists. We went to the House of Seven Gables http://www.7gables.org/, the Jonathon Corwin House also known as the Witch House http://www.salemweb.com/witchhouse/, the beautiful Friendship http://www.salemweb.com/frndship/, and had a funky Chop Suey sandwich at the boardwalk in Salem Willows http://www.salemweb.com/willows/. Now that was an interesting taste sensation! Here are a few pics:


The Friendship

At the House of Seven Gable's.


The Witch House

View of Boston from the Salem Ferry

We toured Boston on Sunday and walked all over following the Freedom Trail http://www.thefreedomtrail.org/. Lots of historical places to see like Paul Revere's house and the Old North Church. Of course I was fascinated with the old cemeteries and explored them with Seamus trying to see who could find the oldest tombstone. Kris's brother called us ghoulies. Hmpf. Don't think so!

More pics:

One of our haunts.

In front of Paul Revere house.

Statue of Paul Revere in back of Old North Church

Copp's Hill

And I found this sweet 2-legged feeding the pigeons with a bag of day old bread.

Check out the size of that bread bag!

And this made me laugh:


That's bread!

We had lunch at a lovely old world Italian restaurant, celebrated family with a glass of vino and then I bought a funny hat!

It was wonderful touring with the family but all good things must come to an end and we ferried back to Salem to get a good nights sleep.

Peabody House

Stay posted because there is more to come. I'll leave you with one of my favorite things I found in Salem that made me a little bit homesick for my Bentman and other four-legged's....


Who would have known the Bentman had a street named for him!

Be back soon. Hope ya'll are having a great week!

Karen Raye

Side trip to Dog Mountain

2010-08-07T09:25:00.002-05:00

I am a bit behind in getting all the photos together from the incredible tour of New England but ya'll will just have to bear with me. If you're new here, just check out the previous posts to see what this is all about. For those of you in the know, read on and feast your eyes on the beauty we experienced in New England. I am jumping ahead to our side trip to Vermont after Massachusetts and Maine for this Saturday post. We left Maine and thought we were following our map but almost ended up in Canada before we realized it. After stopping at a McDonald's and using their WiFi, I turned around and drove us through New Hampshire to Vermont. We were on a time schedule to get to Dog Mountain before the shop closed because I needed a t-shirt. We knew the chapel and grounds would still be open till dark but I have a collection of t-shirts that I needed to add one more to. The scenery was more beautiful than I believed possible and when we finally got to Dog Mountain, I was already starting to get a lump in my throat thinking about how this beautiful place had come about. If you aren't aware of this doG place, go read about it on the link http://www.dogmt.com/. We arrived at about ten minutes till five and browsed through the store while deliriously happy and wet pooches from swimming in the nearby pond came through to visit with us and get lots of love. Of course, after being in the car and driving like a maniac for hours on end, I had to use the ladies room. This is what I found in there:

And this:

Fun, huh?
We thought so!
This is more of what we enjoyed while there:

Now, I am not the greatest photographer in the world but here are more pictures. It was a little overwhelming and my tears flowed freely while walking around. Stephen Huneck had quite a vision and I've always admired what he accomplished from afar but actually getting to see Dog Mountain made me realize what a fantastic job he had accomplished. I'll leave you with a few photographs because for some reason I get all teary eyed when looking at all the love left here for the beloved companions that have gone on to the Rainbow Bridge. Makes it really hard to continue typing if you know what I mean....

The chapel with love notes and goodbyes:

Like I said- the pictures are not the greatest but they should give you a general idea of just how beautiful Dog Mountain truly is. In remembrance of all our beautiful 4-legged's that are already at the Bridge- Run free and fast in the Heavens. We'll see you again one day and fly free together.....

Hope you have a wonderful weekend.
Till next time,
Karen Raye

Exploring New England....

2010-08-04T08:48:00.000-05:00

Alas- we're back. I loved every second of New England and the weather rocked. It felt as if the season of Autumn was wafting through the aire. That is- how Autumn feels in Houston! I am sorting through hundreds, no wait that would be thousands of pictures and am trying to decide which ones to share. So baire with me and I will post a few soon. By the way, there were two Airedale sightings in the New England area while we were there. One was at a Hamptons Inn parking lot in Danver/ Peabody and her name is Maggie and she is four. She is the 3rd 'Dale the 2-legged has had the pleasure of sharing his life with. She head-butted me appropriately and gave me lots of kisses. The 2nd 'Dale was sighted by moi as I was driving down the street to the lobster pound in Southwest Harbor on Mount Desert Isle. Not sure if said 'Dale was a he or a she because the 'Dale went to barking like a maniac when I slowed down to get a picture. Very good 'Dale though- stayed in it's driveway and never once came out of it property line. Didn't see any 2-legged's, so I didn't get the chance to say hello. I must say that the East coast area we toured was extremely dog friendly and made me miss our 4-legged's. Everywhere I looked there were small shops and restaurants that were dog-friendly so I amused my inner dog-self and took lots of photos of the 4-legged's we came across.

Anyway, I will be posting photos soon. Hope everyone has a great day! I'm leaving you with a little gem from Kahlil Gibran that I enjoy.....

A traveler am I and a navigator, and every day I discover a new region within my soul. - Kahlil Gibran

Be back soon,
Karen Raye

Sea Wall on Mount Desert Isle in Acadia National Park

Porcupine Islands viewed from Cadillac Mountain

View from the room in Southwest Harbor

Rut-Row- the rain is neverending....

2010-07-19T14:14:00.001-05:00

I don't know about the rest of the country but here in Houston-town the rain keeps coming down. The yard keeps growing like an uncontrollable field of weeds, and the four-legged's are getting stir-crazy. The thunder starts rolling like a freight train seemingly never ending and terrifying the Bentman. Luckily, I am out of school for 6-weeks and have been at home when the storms come through. We made it through the 4th of July somewhat peaceably with a tiny bit of freakishness but it was much milder than usual. But the crazy storms are making up for it. Since the Bentman has had some issues with various alternative therapies I just try to play the TV really loud and act silly to get his mind off of the thunder. Usually helps. I guess if I was scared of thunder the sight of my 2-legged acting the fool dancing and jumping around the house singing nonsensical songs to me I'd be distracted from what ailed me too. Thank doG no one is videoing me secretly because I'd win the stupidest video in America contest. Still waiting on some results from Bentleys blood-work. Long story but nothing really set off any bells and whistles when it came back from the local Vet. so it is being reviewed by a lady in California along with previous test results from the past. I had to request copies from previous years and it took awhile to get all of it since we don't live there anymore and I couldn't find all my files. Anyway, he is still doing weirdness this summer. For the first time in his life he has decided he can go into Roux's crate and hang out in there. He hates crating with a passion but whatever floats his boat. I imagine if I closed the door on the crate he wouldn't be very happy but I'm not going to push the issue. He has had 2 hot spots this Summer- something he has never suffered from. But I am monitoring them daily and haven't had to resort to the cone-head thing yet. He is not happy with the medicinal spray but will tolerate the chilled witch hazel and fresh aloe-vera juice I keep refrigerated because it soothes.And I have convinced him to eat fresh carrots. Roux and Bridgette adore them and since he can't stand to see them eating something without him he has decided he likes them too. Will wonders never cease?

The other Mama and I are going to the New England area on Thursday and Miss Phyllis will be coming to stay with all the 4-leggeds for awhile. She has strict instructions to alternate cookies with carrots because it never fails that when Kris and I are gone for more than a week the 4-legged's have gained a few pounds. I have found that if Miss Phyllis decided they are running low on cookies she will go purchase more because she thinks they are poor little darlings that are going to starve. Aagghhh. I know one of them has convinced her of this somehow even though they have begun to look like a Twinkie with toothpicks for legs at that point. Anyway, we had a talk. I lied. I said the Vet said they were all fat and had to go on a diet. I think God will forgive me.

Back to the New England trip for a moment. We are going to tour Boston, stay in Salem, get married, drive the coast to Bar Harbor and stay there for a few days and wander around the Acadia National Park, and then go to Vermont. We will check out Cabot Cheese Creamery, an apple orchard- cider place, Ben and Jerry's factory, and finish with a tour at King Arthur's in Norwich. I am soooooooo excited. I really wanted to climb a bunch of lighthouses in the New England area but it appears they are not so much like the ones down in Florida. So I will just view them and take photos. I will eat lots of lobster and clams. And whatever else I find that is indigenous to the area. We decided we will have to go back to check out Nova Scotia and Newfoundland another time. Ten days goes by really fast.

I will miss my 4-legged's tremendously but I am sure they will enjoy their time with Miss Phyllis. I may have to lock down the laptop before I leave. The Bentman and Roux just may decide to post while I'm gone. Never know what those two will do. Anyway, ya'll take care and I'll be sure to post pictures of our trip when we get back.

Happy trails,
Karen Raye

Art of an Airedale!

2010-07-17T10:16:00.000-05:00

A friend sent this to me.

She found it in an art gallery in Lubbock, Texas.

Tan would be beige, huh?

Have a great weekend!

Happy 4th of July anyway.....

2010-07-04T19:15:00.000-05:00

We're not big fans of this particular holiday around here due to the stress caused by the big booms and whistling noises caused by the fireworks our fellow Americans love to set off. The Bentman is terrified of firecrackers, guns, and crazy sounding thunder. Firecrackers are the worst though. Since he reacts negatively to most types of homeopathic calming therapies and Benedryl just makes him more agitated, I will try to get some lavender oil on him that I bought a few weeks ago in the Texas Hill country at the Lavender Run/ Walk we participated in. Problem is- he hates the way it smells. I think he knows what the bottle looks like or else he can read my mind. Actually, I know it is my body language but dear goD help me, I can't help it. He starts pacing after he hears the first loud noise and then it escalates into major pawing at whatever body part he can touch. Then if you are laying down, he will climb on top of your head and paw some more.

One year I made the mistake of staying out in Spring after work one 4th instead of driving all the way home because I had two days of 12 hour grooming shop duty. My friends home was close and it seemed like a good idea to not drive 65 miles home on a major party holiday night. But no- no- No. Every 2-legged in that area that could set off fireworks from 9pm till 3am that night did. It started when I was driving Bentley and I to the friends house about 9:15pm after work that Saturday night going down the road. He went freako in the car and by the time we got to the house, he was in full phobic mode. I couldn't get the TV turned up load enough nor any amount of ignoring, soothing, Benedryl was going to help. I enclosed he and I in the bedroom with two different TV's going full blast and two pillows on my body, long sleeves and pants for protection from his pawing. He made permanent grooves in the door facing. These are very dear friends and I was able to apologize and repair the damage but still....not a fun night- about 3 hours? maybe of sleep before it was time to go back to the grooming shop for a Sunday day of hell. Not really complaining but that is another story in itself for another day!

Anyway, I am planning for a long night since Mother Nature decided to let up on the Texas flood and give us a rain free 4th of July.

Dammit.

I know a lot of you have very similar issues with the 4th NOISE and how it affects your 4-leggeds so I decided to offer a sacrifice to Mother Nature in the hopes of some more rain tonight. I will give up cheeseburgers for two weeks. Do you think it will work? I do so hate to rain on anyones parade but I am going to be selfish on this one. I want rain and lots of it for tonight!

Anyway- best wishes to all. I'm going to see if I can chase down the Bentman and make him smell like lavender. The worst that can happen is that the lavender will calm me down. Right?

Karen Raye
and the Bentman

Wishing, hoping....

2010-06-22T08:31:00.000-05:00

Hello boys and girls,

It's me- Bentley Beargrass. I thought you might have forgotten what I look like since the 2-legged can't get a good picture of me due to my dislike of that gadget these days so I let her take this one of me this morning. The goofy one behind me is my little sis Roux. She is trying to check on my tail because I have a hot spot and she thinks it is most fascinating. I also am fascinated by it but the 2-legged keeps putting some liquid spray stuff on it that makes it taste awful but she said it keeps me from worrying it. She threatened me with one of those cone-head thingys if I didn't leave it alone. Hmpf! All I know is that last week I had to go to the Vet mans office and he poked me with a needle to get some blood. I was really good and the 2-legged took me to the doggie store afterwards and drove me through one of those places where they hand you food through a window. But....guess what? When the 2-legged went for the results of the blood work, they were all skewed and the Vet man said he needed more blood. We went back yesterday. What a pain in my derrière I say. Actually they had to take the blood from my front leg. Just a little naked there now. As you can see, I am half naked and quite odd looking with half a hairecut from Sunday. I will only tolerate an hour or so of hairecutting at a time. The heat was so bad on Sunday that the 2-legged decided to finish me another day. Whew. I lucked out. Except I got a bath as did all of the 4-legged gang. Roux even got a hairecut but she likes all the attention when getting one. What a weirdo! Anyway, I am hoping to get my test results back late today so we will know if I am just being a grump-bucket or if something is really wrong.

Another thing I need to pass on is about Pretty Boy Floyd. The 2-legged checked on TART's Petfinder link last night and saw him posted. She e-mailed the TART people in Austin and found out he didn't work out. Apparently he was sleeping and someone startled him and he woke up growling baring his teeth. The family got worried and decided maybe he needed another family instead. Poor Pretty Boy....he probably is really confused now. Unfortunately, in this giant state of Texas the TART team doesn't have any other families able to foster right now so he is back at the aire-conditioned boarding facility in Georgetown with the nice people there. Please say a prayer for him that he gets a 2nd chance in a new forever family. This latest news makes me so sad.

I guess I should get off the keyboard now. The 2-legged just came in and gave me one of those looks. I think she needs to do some homework. What a geek. Talk to you soon!

Aire-hugs and woofs,

The Bentman

Whacked download....

2010-06-16T09:10:00.001-05:00

So you'll just have to take my word that they are cute. What am I talking about? Why Pretty Boy Floyd, of course. Our Austin coordinator forwarded some new pics of Pretty Boy, now known as "Floyd" to me last night and I tried to download them but they cause severe malfunction when I try to put them on the blog update. So you will just have to take my word for it- He looks happy and settled in with his new family. He has a new cushy bed from CostCo. In one of the pics he's playing with one of his new toys and in another one he is lying down on his bed with one of his 2-legged's looking up at him with adoration in his eyes. Sweet! The family is the one that started as a foster over the weekend but they already decided he is there Forever. Isn't that great? I just love happy endings.

Another update will be coming soon about the Bentman's test results. I am supposed to hear from the Vet man this afternoon. So....let's hope it is something as simple as a thyroid issue. He is still being weird. Now he is going into Roux's crate and hanging out there- He usually hates the crate. Hmm. And really butt-stuck too. Keep your fingers crossed and I'll post later.

Have a great day!
Karen Raye

Special Report!

2010-06-14T09:00:00.000-05:00

Whoa- what a week we had. I'm sure you remember my last post and how my Bentman is acting weird? Due to circumstances out of our control, we haven't made it to the Doctor yet. He has been acting more normal but I know he's not up to par so we are going tomorrow since last weeks appointment had to be postponed. I'll update the results later this week.

This is the scoop- Texas Airedale Rescue Team's Houston coordinator's Mom went to heaven. So I took over a possible owner turn in (male Airedale- approx. 3 yrs old and neutered) at the Harris County Shelter. The hard thing was that I wasn't on the approved pull list for TART at this shelter. No big deal, I made some calls and got a friend from the Golden Beginnings Golden Retriever Rescue to give me some advice. Thank doG for her and other wonderful people in rescue that guided me through that day. There were a few strange problems such as another group that was a mixed breed rescue with the same name as another in a town in North Texas that had put a hold on the boy 'Dale. Then of course the lovely automated phone sytem that the county uses at the shelter had me calling trying to get through for 3 hours off and on that morning. Then the news that he been given to another group that has a large number of dogs that already needed to be placed. It was a mess and I didn't want to step on toes but for the first time in many years our group TART is down to one Airedale in Rescue so we have foster homes waiting and even have some adoptive families ready. Great news, huh? Anyway- after a lot of finagling, calls, and driving from one end of Houston to the other three times, I gave money to the other rescue group to get him at five minutes to 5PM that day. He had been taken to another shelter outside of Houston. That group had shaved him down NAKED- no beard, no HAIRE and charged a lot of money for it. Strangeness was everywhere with this situation. But it is OK, he is with the TART group now where Airedales are put in wonderful homes that know the ins and outs of the breed! Poor boy didn't have a name. They were calling him Ted of course, then the other rescue named him Callahan. I just called him Pretty Boy because Bless his heart, you just knew he was confused with all his haire gone and being transported all over tarnation by strangers.

So Pretty Boy came home to our house late that afternoon and spent the night with our family. Kinda skinny because his previous humans had moved and left him in the backyard to fend for himself. Did they forget about him? Did they think someone would step up and rescue him? I don't know. Some people just piss me off. He is so sweet and was a really good boy while he was here overnight. He drank and ate food like he was rationing it for the future, kind of like he didn't know if he would get any more. So sad. He was really good with our 4-legged's through the outside kennel fence and while he was in the crate in the house though Roux wondered why she didn't get to sleep in her crate that night. She laid there and stared at him for quite awhile. She got to sleep un-crated that night with the Bentman.

The next morning Kris and I left for Austin/ Georgetown to transport him to our contact there where a foster family was waiting. We drove through a Whataburger in the AM because hamburgers are our middle name. Pretty Boy ate a dry hamburger gently and politely out of our hands and drank his water like a gentleman. Obviously someone in his past had worked with him. He knows the command to sit, he is gentle, and he never once jumped up on us. He does have a great big booming voice! On our way to the hill country we had to stop and get gas and let him out for some exercise. The bikers rally R.O.T. was starting in Austin Friday and bikers on Harley's were everywhere. He never batted an eye and was even excited when they revved up their bikes at the gas station. So on we went to Georgetown and turned him over to Tom at the boarding facility. Nice place- aire conditioning and everything. They have stuffed Airedale toys that I am coveting. Anyway, Pretty Boy put on his best manners and never looked back as he went with Tom to his overnight room. The next day Pretty Boy was picked up by his foster family which may become his new Forever family. Blessings abound and Life is good!

Have a great week!

Karen Raye

These are the before and after pictures. Hard to imagine, huh?

the Bentman and the camera..

2010-06-07T15:04:00.001-05:00

He doesn't like the camera. I decided to pull it out yesterday and snap a few current pics. The Bentman was standing in the hallway playing with his new toy, one of those long wormy green ones that squeak, shaking his head like a maniac when he saw me with the camera and froze. Dropped the toy, tucked in his tail and backed into the corner. I knew he didn't like the camera much but usually he will humor me for a few poses. Not this time. So I put it away and he perked back up, still eying me warily but somewhat interested in his toy again. The Bentman has been doing some really weird things. He's back to staring off into the fireplace or at a wall for minutes at a time. Gets really freaked about all the thunderstorms we've been experiencing. He is real skittish and we are keeping an eye on him. It's not funny but he actually thought Kris's leg was a drumstick or something the other day too. Didn't hurt her but it was really freaky like he was confused or something. He is playing fine with all the other 4-legged's - especially his 'lil sis Roux. Regular bitey-face, etc. He's always been my goofy oddball- standoffish and a loner except when he wants loving but I must admit I'm worried. His back leg shakes a lot when he is laying down. Told the vet about this before but he said don't worry about it. I am worried and I think we are going to have a thyroid test done soon. What do you think? Any other ideas? Am I just a paranoid mama?

Karen Raye with
the Bentman

Interpreting it their way*

2010-05-19T19:04:00.002-05:00

Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed and digested.
Francis Bacon

What's in a name?

2010-05-11T16:59:00.006-05:00

I was reading on the ADTLovers Yahoo List today about a contest from the group moderator concerning the nicknames we have for our dogs. Apparently this contest started and ended before I read the posting. No big deal, I enjoy reading the responses as I tend to just lurk there. It did make think about all the silly names we call our critters. And with 5 dogs in this house, it can get a little confusing when you are looking at Jax and saying Walter. The 4-legged's tend to look at you as if you've lost your mind.

I guess I'll explain to those of you that are wondering about why we have 5 dogs. Originally there was Kris and she had Jax and Walter the Chihuahuas. Then there was Bentley. and me. This was about two years ago. So that made a dog and 1/2. Bentley made up a whole dog and the Chi's only made up about one of his legs. So- make that a dog and a 1/4. Then our friend Marie went to heaven and she had three dogs- Bridgette the Bassett, Corky the Schnauzer and Itty Bitty the little Bastard (Chihuahua). Nancy, Marie's niece took Corky to go live in Pocatella, Idaho with her and the little bastard went to go live the nice Vet. lady that wanted him. Thank doG for the Vet. lady 'cause he is a snappy boy! We took Bridgette to live with us because we promised Marie that all of her babies would be well taken care of when her time to go came. Funny thing about Bridgette is that somehow everyone kept saying she was twelve for years. After putting 2 and 2 together, we realized she is more like 16 or seventeen years old. She doesn't act it though. Bridgette has slowed down a bit but you'd never know it when we go walking in park. Being the hound dog that she is, she never slows down with her nose to the ground until we hit the front door and then she just flops down in the hallway for an hour like she's on her last breath.

Back to why I started this post. Nicknames. Ours have quite a few but Roux probably has the most. There is the Crazy Roux, the Rouxster, Roux Boux, Chew Roux, Water Roux, Nosy Rosie, Doofus Dog, Cuddle Bug, and Lover Girl. She is a clown but so sweet. Roux reminds me of my Rosie Red that was with me for almost 16 years. Rosie was always the good girl that never did anything wrong. Roux is nosy like she was and just as lovey. But- Roux is also a crazy girl and likes to be into everything. NOSY! Can't help but love her. It was meant to be when we went the pound that day last summer to see if she was an Airedale. Who cares if she's not. It was fate that brought her to us!

Then we have Bridgette. She is known for her backyard antics. The nicknames include Mud Dog, Dirt Devil, "Get out of my damn flowerbed"- just kidding, Hound Dog ( I sing Elvis's version to her), and Bridgie- pronounced with a French accent.

Walter is just Walter for Kris's Grandfather (she'll have to explain that one). Also Walter Woo because he's so cute and takes the funniest pictures. Sometimes he is called Pain in the A@# because he has to be on you wherever you are lounging and he also thinks he is the house guard dog. Hmm- Lounge Lizard might be a good nickname too!

Jax is just Jax the Little Man. He is sweet and has learned to mouthy from his big brother Bentley. Jax taught me to not be scared of Chihuahuas. I'd never met a nice one till him. My Grandmother in Oklahoma always had mean ones that wanted to eat your ankles so I wasn't too fond of the breed due to childhood memories. Jax and Walter have changed my thinking on that.

Then there is Bentley Beargrass Meyer. My big boy that I got at 6 weeks old in West Texas and had a little Monkey Butt. He gets called Bentley Bear when he is being sweet. He is called the Bentmeister. And the Bentman. Mr. B. And Stubborn Mule Boy when we are at the park and he doesn't want to go home. He love to watch the guys play soccer. He will sit down and you cannot budge him for the world. Oh yeah- and Chunky Monkey when his weight is over 80 lbs like it is right now. We also call him mouthy boy or plain 'ole "loud mouth" because he is extremely vocal and it is really LOUD when he wants you to pay attention to him. He is knows he is my favorite Airedale Boy in the World!

They are all my favorite's. They bring me joy and make me laugh when I am in a crappy mood. They never cease to amaze me with their silly antics and exuberance for life. They are always happy to see me. And I am really thankful and blessed to have them share my life with Kris.

So, what nicknames do you call your 4-legged's? Would love to hear what they are! Hope ya'll have a great day!

Karen Raye

The good and the bad...

2010-05-07T19:41:00.002-05:00

The good news is Spring semester ended for me officially today when I clicked SEND on my last paper about an hour and 1/2 ago. WooHoo! Have almost a month till Summer semester starts. The Bad news is my Bentman has a hurt paw and had to go to the Doctor this morning. We are supposed to watch it carefully for another week or two. Nothing is broke nor can we find a sticker or anything. My poor boy wants to play so bad but all he can do is just stand there and watch the CRAZY Roux run circles around him in the backyard. Say a little prayer please! Gonna go enjoy a glass of wine now. I can finally afford to kill a brain cell or two!

Till next time,

Karen Raye and

the Bentman

Fast, Faster, Fastest!

2010-04-28T21:05:00.000-05:00

I'm so fast, I'm a blur!

Gotta love 'im...

2010-04-15T18:45:00.001-05:00

This is what I found in my backyard today. Broken snapdragons. I am also missing a few marigolds. Orange ones. Found them in Roux's poop at the park today while doing my responsible canine owner duty of picking it up with my trusty little black bags and discovered weird orange things in it.

EewUgh. Yuck!

Then....

I remembered yesterdays events. The men came to survey the property. At the same time, the termite inspection guy showed up. As did the inspection lady.
Into the kennel goes Roux, Bridgette, and Bentley. Into the crate goes Jax and Walter. Whew. Success. Open all the gates. Kris was working at home and on a conference call. I'm trying to make sense of some Algebra homework. Every once in awhile, I look out into the backyard to make sure all is ok. Uh oh. What do I see, but a larger version of this hole and only the Bentman sitting there in the kennel staring first at the hole, then over at me. Thank goD, he's a big boy and couldn't fit through there. But aagghh- all the gates are open and two dogs have escaped. Think, think, think real hard about what Roux was doing earlier when I checked on them. I rewind my brain and remember thinking what an idiot Roux was acting like trying to eat the chainlink kennel siding. Nope. I'm the idiot that didn't think she would succeed in tearing it apart to make an escape hole big enough for herself and Bridgette. Fast forward to me swearing and running out the front door barefoot at breakneck speed. I spot Bridgette a few houses down and bribe her with the words "cookies, ya want a cookie?" It works and she runs back home. Roux on the other other hand, has her nose to the ground and is on a scent trail like she's a specially trained hound dog or something. So I run back in, grab my car keys, jump in the 4-Runner, still bare-foot, and go after her. Roux is like her brother, Bentley and just loves to go for rides. I get down to the house she is currently sniffing and call out her
name. She runs around to the driver side and makes a spectacular leap over me into the passenger seat.
Thank the powers that be!
Exciting but I've had enough.

And now my pretty flowers are- well- Poop.
What else can I say?

How was your week?

Where does all the time go?

2010-04-12T19:40:00.002-05:00

Yep. That definitely sums it up. Have a great week. We'll be back soon!

New Info for Airedale Quilt Raffle

2010-03-31T22:26:00.002-05:00

This is the information from TART that I requested for clarification on how to do this from Becky in Austin. You can also go to the Blog Archive on the left-hand side and click there and see info. Sorry about the confusion and thanks everybody!

Go to PayPal's Website (you don't have to have an account with PayPal) www.paypal.com. Once there you can choose to "send money". Then put airedalerescue@msn.com in the send to box, your e-mail address in the from box and the amount you are sending in the amount box. TART gets a message the you have sent x number of $ to us and I send the raffle ticket numbers to the e-mail address you used.

Raffle for Airedale Quilt - Click here!

2010-03-27T16:50:00.002-05:00

Really sweet and it benefits Rescue too!

Auntie Jane's Journal Day 4

2010-03-26T22:30:00.002-05:00

I skipped Saturday's entry. The most significant remark once again was how much Walter loved the small doggie bed. Need I say more?

Day March 14, 2010:

Everyone including Little Man Jax is outside sunbathing except Bentley. He has really warmed up to me. And he is eating! Bridgette on the other hand has been the one that can't get happy about food. She wants to flip them over when full?

Swept the floors today; great vacuum; used the Swifter too- works very well. Roux barked liked a maniac at the top of her lungs....
All the other pups hauled a@# outside as fast as the doggie door would allow. Except Jax, and he was all comfy in his bed asleep. Funny.Roux finally stopped barking and trying to attack the vacuum cleaner after a couple of minutes. Seemed a lot longer though.Everyone finally calmed down and took a nap. Whew! Part 2 of that Day:
The walk went fairly well. But I am worried about Bridgette. She just
fell over like she was dead right when they walked back in. She wasn't but it
was like she couldn't go any longer or further. The walk didn't take very long but the pups are exhausted. Except for Walter- Spaz Energy Dog. It was so cute- Bentley and Roux came running to me when the dog walker got here. They needed comfort looking at me like "What is that lady here for?" Help me. I guess they're all big wussy's or something! It really made me feel special that they came to me for security. That is the biggest payment of all! I love your pups. And they love me back. At the moment, Jax is on my left hip curled up; not under his blanket in his bed. Another great day. Everyone is sleeping. Me too- soon!

So, just so all of you know- Bridgette always does that after her walks but Auntie Jane was concerned enough to call us in Florida. We knew exactly where she was going with her line of questioning when we got the call. Walks are Bridgette's favorite thing in the whole world except maybe for counter-surfing. And she is 16 years old. We let her have her walks. They are just not as long as she would prefer. If it ends up being her last walk that takes her to the R.B., then so be it. I want to go out doing what I love too. Have a great weekend and do what you love!

Identify these critters!

2010-03-24T14:19:00.000-05:00

And where you might find them!
The other Mama and I have been on Spring Break vacation.
Can you guess where?
There is soooo much to write about and I don't know where
to begin. So next post, I'll share some of the daily journal entries
the four-legged's Auntie Jane made while we were gone.
They are a hoot! Till then- Have a great week!

water Roux- what to do...

2010-03-09T15:42:00.002-06:00

This puppygirl's addiction is water. Always trying to get a drink in the strangest places. For awhile it was only out of the bathtub. Then the stream of water coming from the faucet when I filled the tub up. Next, she graduated to the white porcelain potty bowl; then she started trying to catch all the rain in her mouth as it comes down from the sky. Now the rain water from the roof? I swear we give her plenty of water to drink. Can't wait to see what she'll do this summer at the pool!

sunshine on my shoulder.....makes me happy

2010-02-24T15:24:00.003-06:00

                        Can you say Olympic tackle? Or maybe group hug?

                                    Which toy to tear up first?

                                   Can you say, "was a sock monkey?"


                                         Where's the beef?

                         It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood!

Dough boy?

2010-02-23T17:05:00.003-06:00

Lately my Julia Child's alter ego has been showing itself. My other half thinks this is a good thing, as does the Bentman as you can see in the pic above. I decided to do a science project awhile back and made a bread starter that requires me to feed it. Daily. That is until it is happy to go to being fed on a weekly basis. Sunday I made a loaf of bread to test it out- usually no big deal. The problem was that I forgot to set a timer where I'd be able to hear it and I was in the office working on a Govt. paper. Got lost in lala land. The smell of "you've left me in the oven too long" came wafting back to me about 10 minutes too late. Turned out OK, just a wee bit crusty but nothing that some butter couldn't fix. Anyway, I vowed to give it another go and made some nice pizza crust yesterday to go with the awesome sauce that Kris makes. Not too shabby. Kris and her Mom gave it a thumbs up. But the best was the sinfully decadent cinnamon rolls I tackled. We sampled them last night after they came out of the oven. Olympic skating and cinnamon rolls- oh yeah! The four-legged's reaction to all this baking is priceless. They all sit so pretty at the edge of the kitchen and watch. Noses wriggling. Saliva dripping. Eyes darting. Watching every little move you make. Hoping you'll drop something so they can sample it. Funny little monkey butts. Yeah, they got some crust. I can't help myself. I'll keep you posted on my newest starter, made with buckwheat. It should make some great pancakes. That will have to wait till Sunday breakfast though. And yes, we all had to do a double long walk today because of all the yummies. Tonight we're supposed to get some of that frozen stuff they call snow. Lovely, huh? Of course by tomorrow the temperature will be back up to 70. Crazy weather.

Stay warm or stay cool -
depends on where you are,
Karen and the Bentman

some days you catch it all...

2010-02-18T19:46:00.004-06:00

Did you ever stop to think, and forget to start again?

Winnie the Pooh

Merle's Door

2010-02-15T11:04:00.006-06:00

While searching for the Founding Brothers book I need for class this semester, I happened upon Merle's Door (written by Ted Kerasote) at the 1/2 price book store in Pearland. Various listers on one of the Airedale e-mail groups I lurk upon mentioned what a fascinating read it was. This is true. I've had a really hard time not just sitting down to read it all in one fell swoop. I'm trying to make it last longer and I also need to read other books that are pertinent to my school studies. I do know that this book will probably end with Merle leaving this realm and going on to his next adventure. This it what happens to all of us and the ones we love. But that's ok because Merle and his human are teaching me to look at my relationship with animals a bit differently. Through the science/ biology excerpts that the author relates to throughout the book about various species of animals, I'm becoming fascinated with data and statistics that normally would bore me to tears. The author makes it interesting and doesn't bore with extra details that the average person would find tedious or hard to understand.
Finding my awareness expanding with my 4-legged pack, I am paying more attention to the special body language that my dogs use with me and I with them. Anyway, if you haven't read Merle's Door yet, get a copy, read it and tell me what you think. I should be finished with my copy next week. I'm sure I'll read it again one day- definitely a keeper for the bookshelf. It makes me smile and think in a whole different direction. And don't forget to stop what you're doing, take a deep breath, and feel the joy of the moment for every minute of the day is a blessing.

Have a great day,
Karen Raye with
Bentley Beargrass

True

2010-02-14T11:25:00.000-06:00
Whosoever loveth me loveth my hound.
Sir Thomas More

Looking smug as a bug...

2010-02-11T19:18:00.003-06:00

maybe because it's been raining for days on end and he is KING of the COUCH? What do you think?

think about it...

2010-02-11T15:54:00.004-06:00
The conquest of the earth, which mostly means the taking it away from those who have a different complexion or slightly flatter noses than ourselves, is not a pretty thing when you look into it too much. ~Joseph Conrad, Heart of Darkness

Dead Grass Blues

2010-01-27T16:56:00.003-06:00

Oh my. The winter here has really been funky for Houston. Snow back in November, lot's of rain, 79 degrees on the 23rd of December (I remember because we flew into Pittsburgh- 11 degrees there), freezing temps. for almost a week in January here. I'm sure there is more but the point is- The grass is dead. Brown, crunchy, straw-like and a real pain in my fanny. Whenever the four-legged's go outside, which they do quite often, it attaches to them and falls off of them all over the house. Everywhere. They have become walking Velcro pads. Dead grass on the floor, the bed, the couch, in the bathroom and even in the tub. That is one of Roux's favorite places to hang out. She sits in there waiting thinking she's gonna get a bath everyday like the humans do. Back to the subject I started with- dead grass! Hence the need to vacuum everyday- Ha, not gonna happen! Every two or three days is the usual but not every day. Not enough time in a day. Oh, and the dirt is showing itself and growing in a big circular spot in the backyard. Does dirt grow? Only in West Texas! No, SOMEBODY is digging. Well, all of them are digging. I've been watching them out the kitchen window trying to catch the culprit. It is not singular. It is plural. They are all guilty. Apparently, there is something in the ground under the dead grass that smells and tastes good. Don't know what, not gonna go stick my nose down there to and find out. The taste of dirt is not my thing. Anyway, just needed to write about something other than government essays for school. Maybe vent a bit about the dead grass. How is your little piece of the world? Bring on the Spring- I am needing some green.

Karen

A little bit of Corn...

2010-01-17T14:31:00.004-06:00

I know that I usually just write a few lines about my 4-legged family but today I need to write a few words about my Uncle Henry. There are so many stories but I will keep it short and simple because there are just not enough words to express it all right now. For the last year and 1/2, I have spent a lot of time with my Uncle while my Aunt would go run errands or just go spend time at the library or whatever she needed to do that day. You see, my Uncle had Alzheimer's. He was diagnosed with it in 2004 after their daughter died from complications from a hysterectomy. There were signs that something was going on before then but they just attributed it to forgetfulness and life. It is possible that my cousin's death was a catalyst that tipped him over but who knows. It was all tragic. Well, not all. I had moved back to the Houston area in 2008 to heal mentally and spiritually after a bitter breakup and it just happened that I was in the right place at the right time to help. As it turned out, the love and family closeness that I had been missing for a long time found me. Through the last year, as the disease progressed, my Uncle became more housebound and we were unable to take him many places easily. But I did get to take him to eat chocolate ice cream cones occasionally. And steak. He liked steak and potatoes, especially sirloin though he ate it so well done you wouldn't recognize it for what it was. Looked like shoe leather. Personally, medium rare is how I prefer mine. My Uncle was a funny man, silly and sweet. He had a funny Donald Duck noise that he would make at you up until close to the very end even when you couldn't hear him so well because his voice was so weak. I remember him doing this as a young girl as do all my family. I discovered last year that he loved candy corn and my Aunt would tell me he didn't need all that sugar. It wasn't good for him- blah, blah, blah! I would still bring it to him though. His eyes would twinkle like a little boy's when he saw what I had brought him. He would pretend that he was sneaking it as he ate it one piece at a time. The other day I told my Aunt a story about something I remembered from when I was a little girl. My Mom (my Aunt's sister)used to put me in these silly pageants when I was about nine. I never won the big title, usually just talent (ballet/ acrobats) but the prizes were great for a lower middle class family like us. Gift certificates for clothes from really good stores. Anyway, in one of these silly contests I was being interviewed by the M.C.- I remember a rather tall and kinda scary man. The question was what I found funny and made me laugh. As I looked out into the audience, I could see my Mom cringing as I was not one of those kids that had been coached in the proper answers for pageant etiquette. Looking back on it, I probably wouldn't have answered how they wanted me to anyway. So, after thinking real hard about the question, I answered with "My Uncle Henry gives me corn. It makes me laugh." I could see my Mom rolling her eyes and laughing out there in the audience. The M.C. asked me to explain and I told him I would have to show him. I promptly grabbed his knee with my small hand and squeezed him right above the knee in the tickle spot. He started laughing and said, "I see." That was my first time out and I won the talent spot. I don't think it was because I was that great in my dance routine. I think it was because I made them laugh with the rendition of my Uncle's silly tickle game. He always made us laugh even as adults. My Uncle's health went down quickly this last two months. We didn't expect it to happen so soon. All of us, my Aunt, her son and me, thought we'd have him here for at least another year. Some days it was really hard. Others not so much. The best was the love that showed on his face towards his wife and she towards him. It was the best thing I've ever seen. True love. Till the very end. I'm going to really miss seeing that. I can only hope everyone gets to experience love like that in their lifetime. It is truly a beautiful thing to behold. I will miss you my dear and sweet Uncle Henry. You helped bring me back to life with your funny and silly self that somehow found a way to get out of that fog of Alzheimer's. Thanks for the memories and give my Mom some corn up there in Heaven!

Your loving niece,
Karen

P.S.: My Aunt and Uncle's 50th Anniversary Picture - February 14, 2009.

The Bentman's Birthday!

2010-01-14T15:26:00.003-06:00

Happy 7th Birthday to my funny and sweet puppy-boy Bentley! You are my special and favorite Airedale in the whole world!

Lessons We Can Learn From Dogs

2010-01-13T07:05:00.002-06:00
I started classes yesterday at the local Community College I have been attending since the Fall of 2008. When I finish with my studies, I will become a Middle School teacher. I am leaning towards teaching History and Geography.
Since my mindset is on school, studying, and my newest Professors/ Teachers right now, this article caught my eye early this AM while I was perusing one of the many dog-related e-mail groups I lurk upon. It is true; our dogs do teach us wonderful things. Wouldn't it be nice if everyone could enjoy life the way that our 4-legged friends do?

Bob Schieffer Says Humans Would Be Better Off If We Let Dogs Be Our Teachers
(CBS) I have no idea where this came from or who wrote it - if I did I'd give them credit - but a friend who knows I love dogs e-mailed the following, which I pass along today only because it seems a nice thing to share at the beginning of a new year.

It's a list of what we would learn if dogs were our teachers. Such as:

Always run to greet loved ones when they come home.

Never pass the opportunity to go for a joy ride.

Recognize the ecstasy of fresh air and wind in your face.

Take naps. (I do that!)

Stretch before rising.

Run, romp and play daily.

Thrive on attention (I do that) and let people touch you.

Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

On warm days, lie on your back in the grass. On hot days, drink lots of water and find the shade.

When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

Enjoy long walks.

Be loyal.

Never pretend to be something you're not.

If what you want is buried, dig deep until you find it.

And, when someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.

We'd be better off, better people . . . if we acted more like dogs.

So have a great day. Don't forget to be filled with joy. You just might create a chain reaction of joyful body wags. Wouldn't that be something to smile about?

Karen and the Bentman

Update from the Bentman

2010-01-08T15:27:00.003-06:00

The Momma has been real busy lately. Her Uncle Henry, the one she's been taking care of for the last year, lost his long battle with Alzheimer's and failing health. The Momma said he went to heaven yesterday where he can fish all he wants and see all his loved ones already there. I have been hanging around to give her lot's of kisses when she comes home every night. Last night she called me a butt-stuck baby boy but she finally smiled. These pics show me on my couch and on my bed waiting around for her to come home. I'll catch you up more another day. Love the ones you're with.
Lots of Aire-hugs for everybody,
Bentley Beargrass

Goodbye 2009!

2009-12-31T22:06:00.003-06:00

Back from cold and snowy Pa. and home with our wonderful 4-legged's again. Always fun going but sweeter coming back. See ya'll soon in the New Year!

All the best,
The Mama

Happy, Merry, and Joy!

2009-12-23T15:11:00.004-06:00

That is- HAPPY HOLIDAYS and MERRY CHRISTMAS to all of our Blogger and non-Blogger Friends! Be safe, be warm and spread joy and love to all!

With happy woofs and hugs,
Karen, Kris, Bentley, Bridgette
Jax, Roux, and Walter

Sing, sing, sing- Ye Merry "Dales"

2009-12-17T09:02:00.005-06:00

Here's a link to some fun songs from one of the Airedale list's I lurk on. Bentley gives a two paws up for the lyrics and Roux, well, she is still trying to figure out what is going on with all the baked cookie smells wafting through the house and why the Mama has those things that smell so good put way up high! As you can see in this picture, the 4-legged's are mesmerized by my awesome singing voice. Ha Ha Ha or is it Ho Ho Ho? What can I say? Enjoy!

http://dsl027-161-026.atl1.dsl.speakeasy.net/AireSong.html

A favorite poem of mine...

2009-12-12T17:11:00.001-06:00
Somehow, not only for Christmas
But all the long year through,
The joy that you give to others
Is the joy that comes back to you.
And the more you spend in blessing
The poor and lonely and sad,
The more of your heart's possessing
Returns to you glad.

John Greenleaf Whittier

Little Red Riding Hood or not....

2009-12-10T08:10:00.003-06:00

Roux is definitely the "or not" part....that would be peanut butter on her nose.
Walter was practicing for his very own publicity shoot.
And Bentley was seriously considering bolting. He just didn't think he could move with that weird red thing on his head!

I'm trying to get Holiday pics for the Christmas card lists this year. I have patience but time is running out! I'll try again tonight- wish me luck!

Keeps you on your toes...

2009-12-08T08:24:00.003-06:00

It's been awhile and I just wanted to bring all of our friends up to date on the 4-legged's. Today is the next to last day of the Fall semester for me and I can't emphasize how thankful I am for that this morning. One more final exam, then I'm free for a month- give or take. I know the 4-legged's will enjoy me being home with them. Due to weather and other factors, their Klaws have declined over the past two weeks in frequency. Because of this, we all are having to really watch our caloric intake. Bowls are being put down and picked up after meals even if their not empty and the other Mama and I are watching what we eat! I depend on those daily Klaws to burn a few calories and it helps with stress, sleep and makes my 4-legged family a lot easier to deal with when they are having full-surge energy spasms as is usual around here. The rain looks as if it has let up for the day- a day of sunshine for Houston would be nice. We, the other Mama and I, have learned that a tired dog is a good dog when it comes to the Roux girl. When she came to us, the vet approximated her age to be somewhere around a year. We believe that he was wrong in his guestimate. Roux is now a wee bit taller than Bentley and continues to be full of non-stop energy. After Roux came back to join our family, Bentley decided that she was his personal play toy. He learned that she would play with him non-stop and that he can play bitey-face with her all he wants without hurting her. This is a good thing since the other 4-legged's in the family are too small and/or too old to play with a 75-80 lb. Airedale. Bentley is experiencing his 2nd childhood which is really awesome since he turns 7 next month. Of course, Bentley's loud mouthed vocalizations and goofy habits of flipping the food bowls have become Roux's habits too. We have been working on the Sit, Stay, Down and Wait commands for a month or two now when it is time for the afternoon Klaw in the park and are seeing great results. Patience- it is a virtue and it pays off. Still- Roux is in chewing mode- it comes in waves and cycles about every three to four days instead of everyday. We use the black super-dooper extra strong Kongs frozen with peanut butter for Roux's destructive chewing habits. We found a similar product at Academy (sports & hunting store) that is bright orange, over-sized and half of what you pay for the Kong brand. She's made indentations but hasn't succeeded in tearing any of them apart- yet; she very well may succeed. It's better than her eating any more of our house-hold items. The list is long so I won't go into details but you can use your imagination. Roux is really smart and I think when she is a bit older and I have the time, she will go into agility or some other like-minded activity. And we are finally making some progress with her Attention Deficit "puppydumb." All I know is that her exuberance and crazy antics keep all of us on our toes- especially the Bentman so I'm not complaining. Roux is the best thing that could have happened to my Bentman! Of course, that goes both ways- Roux is learning the good stuff that an older dog can teach a young one!

Till next time- have a wonderful week
and enjoy the ones you love!
Bentley's Mama

Update on Snowy Day in Houston!

2009-12-04T16:19:00.004-06:00

We went outside to play in the front yard. Roux pulled a fast one as usual and took off with Bentley's fashionable red scarf....
Obviously, the cold makes the 4-legged's feistier than usual....
But I was able to get them to stop long enough for a quick snapshot after the game of chase of "give me back the red scarf!"

Houston- We have a problem!

2009-12-04T10:24:00.003-06:00

More to come! Just waiting for the snow to stick so the 4-legged's can go play in it. I know snow is not such a big deal in other area's but in Houston it only happens every blue moon. Must have been a blue moon last night, huh??!!!

A Dollar a Minute....

2009-12-03T15:47:00.004-06:00

Look what the Mama brought home! PetSmart Donation Toys! WooHoo!
Darn- she's got that flashy thing out again....maybe I'll just stand here and not move.
Or maybe not.
The game is on. How long do you think before Roux the Chew destroys it?
Bentley helped. He acts like such a goody-two-shoe. Hmpfff!
Bored now. What else can I get her blamed for?

Side note: Yes, I did buy two stuffies but I picked one of them up and hid it after I saw the tug of war start. It's always fun watching the two of them act like the maniacs they can be. Anyway, have a great end of the week. We're supposed to get slushy, icy wet cold stuff tomorrow. Blah.

Dogs, Pies and Fried Turkey

2009-11-26T20:50:00.007-06:00
George and sister Kathy (Kris's Dad's wife) Family resemblance is that they are silly pranksters up to no good! Beware! Major goofballs!
Thanksgiving dinner table: ready, set, go!
Roux's 1st Thanksgiving with us. That blue thing is a so-called durable Kong toy! Not!
More silliness from the gang...
Kris was in charge of the fried turkey. Gobble, Gobble!
Lemon buttermilk pie and pecan pie safely cooling in the office away from the 4-legged's!
Barb (Kris's Mum) and Alan (Kris's Dad) looking at the dog show on the t.v.
Barb relaxing before dinner.
Sam and Kris checking out the black Friday sales ads in the paper. We don't need more stuff! Except maybe more dog toys!

So we had a great day with the family- 2-legged and 4-legged and we sure hope you did too! Hugs, Aire-kisses and many blessings to all of you today and everyday. Till we post again....smile, laugh, and know how wonderful you are!

Karen and Bentley Beargrass

Thanksgiving morning!

2009-11-26T12:18:00.004-06:00
Resting after the morning Klaw so we can eat some goodies. Sam and I burned a few calories so we can eat an extra piece of whatever we want. As did the Bentman and friends!
Making the homemade noodles- Grandmother Barb and Granddaughter Sam!
Sam is having way too much fun rolling out the dough!
Kris (daughter of Barb and Sam's Auntie) making her pecan pie for me (little do they know)!
More exhausted pups after the morning klaw. Have to burn a few zzz's so they energize up for Thanksgiving dinner!

Chunky monkey?

2009-11-18T07:43:00.003-06:00

Have you ever heard of such? She (the Momma) called me a chunky monkey and she said I needed to lose a lb. or two, maybe three! Hmmppff! The Momma realized this when she was looking at my pictures after she downloaded them. Basically, all it is- is haire; lots of winter coat coming on and she's been a wee bit lax on getting my haire cut. That's my opinion! Just because it's not my favorite thing in the world and she's been too busy with school, working on building a shed for the backyard, doing whatever humans do- it's not my fault. AND, I get lot's of exercise playing with my newest toy, Roux. She is mine and I love her even if she is a non-stop moving energized maniac. I have to play biteyface with her at 6 in the morning. The Momma just doesn't understand- I need lots of food to keep my energy level up! I can't help it if I'm kinda stocky and my legs aren't as long as my sister's. It's pure muscle and I use it well, I say! Uh-oh, here she comes with that clipper bag. Bet she's gonna make me take a bath too. Says she wants to get a good look at what's underneath my haire! Gotta run!

Till next time,
Bentley Beargrass!

a little bit about nothing...

2009-11-02T08:03:00.007-06:00

Good Morning and Happy Monday

to all of you out there in the world of Blogger-Land. It has been a really long weekend and I hate to admit it but I'm glad it is finally a new week. Visiting our household for a little over a week now is Salla from Finland- she came to the United States 5 years ago to stay with my partner Kris as an exchange student for a year. She liked it so much, she has come back to visit and when she graduates University over there in the land of cold, she may come here to teach one day. We've had lots of fun with her even though she is a shopping fool! Apparently, there are many favorite American delicacies like Ho-Ho's and such that she took a liking to and cannot get them over there in her native Finland without paying an arm and a leg! Her box (going to be a giant U-Haul one) will cost a small fortune to check at the aireport, I'm sure. And I won't even say anything about her 45 lb. backpack she'll have to check and the boxes of Bisquick, cake mixes and 12-pack of Kraft Mac-n-Cheese in her suitcase! That's not counting the various clothing items that the young folks are into these days- a little bit gothic-styled but she'll the first to have these trendy fashions before anyone else does over there in Finland. We took her to Austin on Friday knowing full well she'd love it because Austin is the best city in Texas. The University of Texas, the music scene, laid-back people and beautiful scenery are hard to beat. If the cost of living wasn't so expensive there and we could make a decent living, I think we'd live there too. Salla dressed up as pirate since they don't celebrate Halloween in Finland and we took her to the Halloween celebration on 6th St. We actually stayed for two hours before us oldie's started getting too claustrophobic from the thousands of ghoulies that started to fill downtown Austin. Alas, my poor little boy Bentley didn't get to go this trip because his Mama had too much to do last week and left him here in Houston with Miss Phyllis the doggie-sitter and his brothers and sisters. He'll get to go next trip in early December when the Mama gets out of school. One of the reasons he didn't get to go is because we helped man the TART booth at the LSACT Versatility Day on Sunday in Hutto, Texas and I didn't get him groomed nor did I have time to start acclimating him to being crated. Next year he gets to go and maybe the wild child Roux if she quits acting like a heathen! I really believe she is teaching him bad habits and he is gleefully enjoying himself. What next? Check out the pic of the Airedale in devil costume in my pics- He is supposed to be Hell in a Handbasket, good one, huh?! We can sympathize! Anyway, we were able to go see my newest nephew- Ethan Micah- 3 weeks old and his big sister Aerin- almost two, and my sister and her partner. We stayed at our dear friends Kimmie and Lorri's aka Partner's house. Partner was a really good sport and helped us at the TART booth all day Sunday while Kimmie and Salla went shopping. Two birds of a feather- if we'd thought about it sooner we could have let them shop for a week together but then Salla would have had 2 or 3 U-Haul boxes to back to Finland. Never mind that thought! On the other paw- Kris and I bought some really fun stuff at the TART booth to add to the office walls here at home. I had to have a Dogopoly game featuring an Airedale on the box lid and Kris being the doll that she is, encouraged me to put it in my pile of purchases. WOoHOo! The event was lots of fun even though we had a much smaller turnout than years past but we'll be there again in the years to come. It's time for me to go get Salla up and get a few things done before she leaves tomorrow like make sure the 4-legged's aren't making mischief, study, go to class, study, and get Salla to the U-Haul store and the dreaded Wally-World! I'm pretty sure that Bentley and Co. will have some new adventures to post before long that will have me tearing my haire out!
So...
Ya'll have a great week!

Crafty pooches!

2009-10-27T08:52:00.003-05:00

This month has been a wee bit hectic. Between trying to keep the "Chew Roux" from deliberating on what item to steal next as one of her toys, Bentley deciding that Roux is his own personal toy to play with at 5:30 am till 7:30am in the middle of the living room, my overload of school hours that's kicking my butt (I knew better), and numerous other things that everyone out there has experience with- I've been attempting to be crafty. Hmmpf. Harder than I thought even though I am creative, the execution of some of my ideas are definitely trial and error! Naturally, the 4-legged's think they need to help me in everything I set out to do. The due date for these creations is this weekend for the LSATC Versatility Day in Hutto, Texas. The Texas Airedale Rescue Team will be selling all kinds of Airedale-related items to raise money for Rescue. We'll even have goodies for the 2-legged's to eat at our bake sale and sack lunch's too. I'll be making my Swedish Nut's- pralined pecans, which of course the 4-legged's in this house think they need to help sample! Wish me luck- 'cause I'm hoping to be faster and smarter than "Kanga Roux", the counter-surfer extrardinaire while in the kitchen bagging up the nuts! Ya'll have a good week; I'm sure mine will continue to be exciting staying one step ahead of the crafty and wily 4-legged's that rule this house!

Boux came to see us!

2009-10-22T20:25:00.004-05:00

Guess who came over to meet the gang? My other brother Boux from where I lived for awhile and was it ever fun! We played in the backyard together and he even fit himself through the doggie door and he's way bigger than Bentley or me. Whew- really tall and over a hundred pounds. He can just look at the stuff on the counter in the kitchen and grab whatever he likes if he's surfing! Wish I were that tall...they say I'm still growing maybe there's a chance!

The newest girl in town,
Roux aka "like a KangaRoux"
-cuz I can jump really high!

conversations about Chew Roux....

2009-10-15T10:45:00.004-05:00
Momma 1: "What if she never grows out of this chewing stage?"
Momma 2: "Never had one that didn't."
Momma 1: "She's been really bad today. She got shoes out from the bottom of a tote for the Goodwill people. I didn't even remember those shoes were in there. How did she know?"
Momma 2: "Too smart, and she has a good nose for leather. I don't know."
Momma 1: "I knew a dog once that never grew out of it. He ate the whole house his entire life. I couldn't stand that dog. Not really but..."
Momma 2: "It's getting better, only every other day now that she does something. She just is very nosy and likes to chew. And she's young- two is usually the magic age. Maybe sooner; it just seems like forever when they're in this stage."
Momma 1: And that tote had clothes piled up on top of the shoes in it."
Momma 2: I know. I'll take it to the Goodwill place tomorrow. Sweet dreams- she'll get better- they always do."

Life of Roux by Bentley Beargrass

2009-10-08T08:24:00.004-05:00
Here is the list of everything she eats. She drives the 2-legged's craaazy.
In the beginning she started with my toys, shredding them one by one till there was nothing left but big, fuzzy white pieces floating everywhere. Then she started getting a hankering for shoes. The shoes originally started out on an old lawyer's bookcase- 4 levels, top to bottom. Then the Momma moved them up to the 2nd level from the bottom to the top. She went after those too. Then all the way to the top shelf and the rest into the back bedroom closet with the door shut. That solved that- for a few days. Then the other Momma forgot and took hers off for just a minute one day and "Shoe Roux" took off with one of a brand new pair that had replaced one of 7 pairs. The 2nd Momma realized it quickly but it was in the backyard already chewed. Hmmppff. Then.......Roux became known as "Chew Roux" because she destroyed a dustpan that the 1st Momma had left outside in backyard terriertory. And she destroyed 2 red Kongs- have you ever heard of such? Now she gets the super-duper Giant Black Kong's and the 1st Momma says she's gonna write the Kong company and see if they'll come up with an even stronger Kong if Roux eats those. Next up, she decided she likes to eat paper products- you can't believe how many boxes of Kleenex she's swiped. Everything,and I do mean everything started getting moved up to the high places in the house. Roux decided that she didn't like the 2nd Momma's cigarettes and took those to the backyard to destroy- didn't smoke or eat them, thank Dog. She swipes all and any water bottles sitting around. This is probably because she loves anything water. There are new rugs everywhere because she drinks like a slob. She practically gets in the water bowls when drinking and her beard brings massive amounts of water with her every step. That's actually kinda funny to watch. I taught her to go drink out of the potty bowl so she can flood the bathroom floor. At least I'm not the only one called "potty mouth" around here anymore. The other day was the best- we've been getting mucho amounts of rain for weeks so we needed baths according to the 2nd Momma, she even informed Roux she was fragrant and not in a good way. What do you expect when Roux celebrates in the pouring down rain by running around in it like an absolute fool and comes in soaking wet! When the 1st Momma went to run water for her own bath that morning, there was Roux as usual drinking all the water coming out of the tub faucet. When the 1st turned around in the bathroom for a minute, Roux jumped in, ankle deep, waiting patiently for her bath. She smells better is all I can say. She got her bath. Oh yeah, she has become a counter-surfer extraordinaire. The Momma's had set a trap for her with the cookie sheets last week but she is sneaky and never went back for a few days. Then she struck- pork ribs with the special sauce on the grill. Somebody left the spatula on the counter and she snatched it and in typical "Chew Roux" fashion destroyed it. Well, the cookie sheets, scary penny water bottle and paper towel with a bit of sauce to lure her were positioned precariously on the counter. HeHe! She fell for it and got in so much trouble. Terrierfied, Roux flew out the doggie door and didn't get near the kitchen for at least a day. She is constant trouble, I say. Anyway, it appears according to the Momma's that she is probably younger than they originally thought when they rescued her a few months ago. Roux is growing- so far about two inches in height. And she eats and eats and eats. She has learned from me to go push the empty bowls around when she's hungry. Ha! She even has a really big smart bump on her head. The first Momma says this isn't good because it means her brain is big and she will always try to outsmart the 2-legged's. Lately all the words we hear around here are "No; Down; Go lay down; Sit- Wait- Easy- Soft kisses- Good Girl- Oh Roux, you can be a good girl; Get in your crate; God, give me more patience than I already have, please!; and the very best is AAAAAGGGGHHHH, what now!" It's better than a circus around here, or maybe a zoo or a preschool. I don't know, it's always something. Anyways- till next time- have a great week and don't forget to pick up your shoes 'cause "Chew Roux" is back in town!

Yours truly,
Bentley Beargrass
(I'm perfect or at least I let them think I am)

Kitchen woes...

2009-09-29T08:34:00.004-05:00

Yes, you guessed it. Roux has learned to counter-surf to the dismay of the two Momma's. After I got out of school yesterday, I went by Joe's Barbecue joint in Alvin to take advantage of their Monday special- chopped beef sandwiches for one dollar. Thinking they would be tiny offerings at this price, I bought four. Well.. the guy in front of me ordered three for himself so this led to my conclusion of special price, tiny little itsy bitsy sandwich. I was wrong. Realizing this when I arrived home and opening up the Styrofoam box I was pleased to see that there would extra for lunch today. Hmmppff- wrong again. I'd taken my sandwich back to the study room to eat when I heard a Roux noise. Now, this is just not any noise. It is a noise you all are probably familiar with. That special sound you hear when one of the four-legged's, in this case Roux, is getting into something she has no business getting into. You see, there haven't been any signs of dreaded counter-surfing habits before last night so I wasn't on guard for her new escapade. Roux, Roux, Roux- you act like a little heathen. Anyway, I immediately hauled a## to the kitchen to find a completely uneaten sandwich laying on the rug missing it's Styrofoam box. I poked my head out the window and there is Miss Roux happily shredding her newfound toy- the Box out on the grass. As I picked up the sandwich I started to laugh thinking what a dumb-butt. Here is a delicious chopped beef sandwich she could have been savoring from her thievery but No- she went for the Box instead! I cleaned up the mess and set a trap. Big cookie sheet with paper bag and empty box that must have smelled so inviting to her big black nose. On top of that, I put the scary penny water bottle for even more noise effects so when it falls, she will run for her life. That was last night. Still waiting. If I need to tempt her with more savory smelling items- I will. It is just a matter of time!

Need the flash, lady!

2009-09-22T07:35:00.003-05:00

The Momma forgot to turn on the flash as usual. Can you see me? This is my own special version of bed head. Apparently, my Mum thinks I need a grooming because she said I look like a ragamuffin. Then she said she may not be able to get the job done properly all by herself and called her groomer friend. I'm going to hide now.

Across the muddy river to New Orleans

2009-09-13T18:00:00.009-05:00

We had a lovely time exploring New Orleans this weekend. It is a feel good city with it's exotic history, swampy locale and fascinating people. We thought the rain followed us from Houston to Louisiana but it had been raining there for weeks. We didn't care, it just added to the adventure. Arriving at ten pm we checked into the St. Pierre- various restored cottages and buildings with private courtyards and lush greenery wildly growing everywhere- refreshing after the drought conditions we've been experiencing in Texas. The next day we went to Cafe Du Mond and enjoyed the chicory coffee and beignets the open air cafe is famous for. No sightings of Airedales anywhere but I saw lots of bulldogs, mixes and pittbulls which Louisiana is notorious for. A canine fix is a canine fix! Then it began to rain. No rainy day blues for us though. We walked, ran and splashed everywhere with all of the other tourists and locals for three days. A visit to the Aquarium of the America's gave me a chance to feed the stingrays. A tour of the Beauregard Key's mansion was quite informative as was was an afternoon spent at the World War II Museum. The WWII Museum gave me some more insight on a paper I need to write next week for school! We also were able to go see the burlesque queens at the House of Blues after their contest at Harrah's Saturday night. Definitely interesting but sadly they don't leave much to the imagination anymore like the Burlesque Queens of the Olden Days used to. Of course, we ate our way through New Orleans. The advice from the locals on where to go sample the best Cajun fare was right on. I felt like Bubba Gump and now can proudly recite almost all titles and recipes for anything shrimp and crawfish now that I've had my fill. We also went to Central Grocery and shared a muffuletta- a most excellent sandwich with their delicious olive salad. I want to recommend a carriage ride through the French Quarter next time you get to New Orleans. I've visited N.O. many times since I was 16 but never wanted to spend the time or money. Worth every penny! We were able to go visit Marie Laveau's tomb and walk around the cemetery a bit. Supposedly, if you leave three of anything at her tomb or tap on the wall, she'll grant you a wish. I just knocked and wished her to rest in peace. I figure her spirit is tired of everyone bothering her! The St. Louis Cemetery #1 and all of it's cousins in N.O. are filled with great atmosphere for hoodoo-voodoo lover's and vampire freaks. I say who-voodoo! All the walking about did us in and we were able to go back to our cottage and sit in the huge, square rectangular jacuzzi tub every day in the afternoon and evening to massage our feet and other achy parts! I want and need a tub at home like that one I've decided. HaHa. Anyway, New Orleans is back in business after that nasty little storm named Katrina tried to wipe it off of the face of the planet. So, if you ever get a chance, go visit and linger awhile. There is much more to her than Bourbon Street and Mardi Gras- personally I can't handle those massive moving walls of people during the major festivities and choose to go in the off-seasons. Claustrophobia is my middle name! Bentley and our 4-legged gang say hello to all! They stayed home with their favorite sitter Miss Phyllis who spoiled them by feeding them a half jar of cookies and who know what else while we were gone??!! And she lets them sleep with her- all of of them. Aaagghhh. We love her and obviously so do they! Enough rambling for now, it was a great mini-vacation. Gotta go study- school stops for no one, especially old students like me. C'est la vie! Ya'll have a great week.

She's back.....

2009-08-31T10:10:00.003-05:00

She that eats food bowls if they're empty. Bentley only flips them to let us know they need more food in them. She that has eaten three of my shoes since yesterday afternoon. She that has more toys than any dog in the world plus all the toys that aren't hers. She that is so cute but quite obviously still a puppy with incredible amounts of energy. Drum roll please- Miss Ricki Roux has come back to stay! After a stay with her new family for a few weeks, it became apparent that the old boy Beaux was retreating into himself and not participating in any of his favorite activities anymore. After trying all possible avenues to convince him that he was not being replaced by a wild child, it was decided that Roux would come back to her original pack and live here with us. She learned some more commands while there and became accustomed to a bit more exercise but we will try to follow through. We have to after this latest round of chewing. If you have any suggestions for a chewer, we welcome any and all suggestions. See exhibits posted of gross negligence on my part. I will say they were on the shoe shelf where they belong, though....See picture of Bentley smiling because he knows she got into terrible trouble. Hmmm. Almost like he told her to do it.

happy endings really happen....

2009-08-26T17:28:00.005-05:00
First of all- Bentley is doing very well. He is back to waking up the other Mama at 5 or 5:30 in the AM if she's not up yet. That is a good sign; when he's not well- well, he lays around in bed till all hours of the morning. I'll take his loud mouth any 'ole day waking us up! The happy ending is a wee bit longer. After we sent Miss Roux on to her fur-ever home, Kris mentioned it was kinda quiet around here. Naturally, we had to take into consideration that Bentley wasn't on top of his game yet. But, the Texas Airedale Rescue Team got hit really hard with about 11 rescues and we needed fosters as soon possible. So....with a few things to get in order, like preparing for Fall semester classes, getting Bentley better, going to see Wicked the Musical (it was awesome), working on my fund raiser decoupage Airedale boxes to raise money for Airedale rescue,etc. I made some calls to Cheryl (TART) our coordinator in Austin. Then some more to the Austin/Georgetown area, where a lovely senior girl named Ella was being temporarily fostered in a house without a doggy door. Ella is approximately 10, has a bladder tumor that she is on medication for and needed to have access to a doggy door since she needed to pee often. They said she was great. Anyways, our house fit the bill and I figured that she and the Bentman would be fine together. The old ones are harder to place and most of us have a really big soft spot in our hearts for them! I was going to get her from Georgetown next week. When I got home from school today this is the e-mail I opened and read from one of the TART coordinators and want to share with you:

On August 24th, barely daring to hope, Jane M. of Red Oak, TX., sent a
note to me (Cheryl Silver--with TART) in Austin,TX. Her
question--"Where did the 'dale listed on Petfinder as "Ella" come from?
She had lost her Airedale girl on the 4th of July and all efforts to
find her had failed--reports of sightings had dwindled down to nothing.
The way the old girl was squatting to potty in one of the pictures
reminded Jane of her 'dale, Jessie, who has a bladder tumor for which
she was taking medication..

It was close to 9 p.m. when I got her email. Seems she had been at
work and someone had a radio playing on station KRLD. Her ears perked
up when she heard an announcement about the KRLD Pet of the Week--an
Airedale named Maggie. Jane dared to hope that someone had found
Jessie, turned her in to a shelter and named her Maggie. She looked up
Maggie on Petfinder only to discover that Maggie was an Airedale-mix,
cute--but not her Jessie. Scrolling through the other postings she saw
"Ella."

Ella had come to TART through a shelter in Cedar Hill (about 15 miles
from Red Oak) where she was picked up as a stray. She was clearly
elderly and emaciated but very sweet. TART volunteer, Tom Bambrick,
pulled her out of the shelter and delivered her to the nurturing hands
of TART volunteer, Melissa Sibley who has a kennel in Cedar Hill.
Ella was promptly delivered to the vet who declined to give her any
vaccines except bordatella due to her tenuous condition. A few days
later Ella came to Becky's kennel and vetted more intensively- -the
bladder tumor was discovered and she was started on Piroxicam--the same
medication Jessie was prescribed.

Ella was weak but determined. She would eat with gusto and, when a
foster home with two large Maine Coon cats was set up, she would take
great interest in the kitties but she never bothered them. Her foster
mom, Marcia, discovered that Ella adored both cantaloupe and her cushy
dog bed and she welcomed all visitors to the home. She was clearly
house trained. Ella was clear about telling Marcia when she wanted a
walk through the comfy Rosedale neighborhood in central Austin. The
neighbors welcomed this old girl who was gaining strength by the hour
and her coquettish glances were duly noticed..... she is such a flirt.

Jane and I talked at length about the 'dale in our care. I assured her
that in the morning Becky would use the name "Jessie" with Ella to see
how she responded. Through the evening, Jane sent numerous posts
providing information to help identify her Jessie. Jessie had a mole;
Jessie had experienced hematomas in her ears leaving them
thickened... ...everything pointed to Ella being her Jessie. Jane's
sister sent some pix of Jessie taken within the past two
years....... clearly the grinning girl in the pictures looked like Ella.

In the morning all doubt was erased when Ella began a happy dance when
Becky addressed her as "Jessie." Jessie's family was notified and
before the sun set they had driven to Georgetown to get their beloved
girl. It was a joyous reunion with Jessie nearly jumping into her
mom's lap....not bad for an old girl.

So there have been lots of smiles in central Texas for the past 24 hours
and one of the sweetest smiles is Jessie's.... .....what a girl.
Oh--Jessie's mom has offered to help TART in the future...... no bad!

*I have contacted KRLD about the story. They may do a story on the
reunion.*
**Jessie was reported to NAR on July 5 but when we learned of her 3
weeks later in a different town we did not make the connection.* *

A BIG GIANT AAAIIIRRREE-OOOO FOR JESSIE AND HER FAMILY! Who says that happy endings don't come true? Have a great day from all of us in Texas!

ditto Gary Larson's quote...

2009-08-14T18:21:00.003-05:00
Not 100% yet but he's acting more like himself. He and I wanted to pass on this quote from Gary Larson. It sums up how we feel about any kind of animal fighting.

"I don't believe in the concept of hell, but if I did, I would like to think of it as filled with people who were cruel to animals." Gary Larson

dogs get colds too?

2009-08-13T07:46:00.003-05:00

Over the couple of weeks, Bentley hasn't been his usual self and sleeping an unnatural amount- even for him. At first, I thought it was because of the foster puppygirl Roux and his slight jealousy towards her. Roux demanded a lot of attention because of her age and the situation she came from and it was hard to even out the play time required amongst all of the 4-legged's. We tried and did a fairly good job of it. But, Bentley seemed a little put out since he was getting so much of his quality time with me. I chalked it up to the situation at hand. Five dogs is a lot and I give a big round of applause to all that do it daily. Needless to say, we enjoyed every second of our time with her while she was here and are happy to announce that Miss Roux has gone to her forever home with her new family as of Monday night! But back to the Bentman- he had developed over the last few weeks an odd sounding cough/snuffling sound and a lack of interest in everything. He perked up at walks but wasn't wanting to run with me and tired very easily. I verified that it was not kennel cough but some sort of wheeziness with a clear drippy nose and a total lack of energy; definitely not my goofy-acting Bentley boy. So off to the Vet. we go. No temp. and he has lost a lb. or two. Well- I knew that part because he's been off his food too. The nice Vet. lady gave him antibiotics for upper respiratory/allergies. Nothing stuck in his nostrils. Heart and lungs sound good- just a wheezy nose and sounds like he has sinus/ cold/ allergy stuff like a human. Interesting. We'll see. I'm keeping a close eye on him. I won't use any more essential oils on my vacuum cleaner filter even though it smells good because he may be reacting to those. Unfortunately, my boy has reacted to unknown irritants in the past and I keep children's antihistamine on hand. It is frustrating since they can't tell you what is wrong so everything you've ever read or heard about pops through your overactive imagination to frighten you worse. The Bentman does have a history of ehrlichia and babesiosis from when we lived in West Texas. Even went through a series of shots similar to what humans go through for malaria for the babesiosis. So I am constantly watching for any recurrence of problems that may present themselves due to his history. He finally got his voice back last night telling me it was time to go to the park. No inside voice for him- just non-stop loudness till I put his leash on him. It wasn't our normal walk/jog but it was a good start. And he did get out of bed earlier today than he has been. A little before 7:30 but still not his normal 5 to 6 am wake-up with the other Mama. Please send a little Aire-Zen his way.

2009-08-10T08:42:00.001-05:00

Did someone say cookies?

Of course they did!

Have a great week!

what's in your purse?

2009-08-07T17:42:00.003-05:00

and I wonder why my shoulders hurt. There was a commercial the other night on t.v. asking about getting enough of the daily dietary requirement of fruit and vegetables in your life. It flashed on a woman pulling a bruised banana out of her purse and I could relate. Usually, I carry a banana, a baggy of nuts and a bottle of water to school with me so I can have a bit of something to get my brain in gear. Sometimes, I forget about the banana or just can't find it for a day or two. Yeah, I know. I did learn to clean out my rolling book bag more often between semesters. Between Winter and Spring semesters this last year, I found a dried black, dusty, husky shell of a banana in it. Eeeuuww- I know. So, back to the purse. I decided to take inventory of it after seeing that commercial. This is what I found. Numerous pens, pencils, lead to pencils that had fallen out, an erasure from one of the pencils, lot's of paper's with crap written all over them, receipts from the grocery, Nicoderm patches that I'm supposed to start wearing one of these days, matches , lighters, my checkbook, my big-a%$&* wallet that "gawd only knows" what's in it (didn't have the heart to pull it apart), various prescriptions, allergy pills for me to take because of my Aunt's cat that I'm allergic to, lipstick, Chapstick, a spoon for the yogurt that I sometimes put in my purse to eat while at school, 3 paint can openers, only one dog biscuit, nail polish, a bottle of water, gum, the leather pouch for my carry around camera that's not in there, cocoa butter for my dry skin, itchy scalp lotion for psoriasis, to go Splenda tablets, hair picks, face powder, eyeliner and new contact lenses in original cases from the eye-doctor. Oh, and tweezers, a single herbal tablet for stress care, a Crystal Light packet from my friend Kathy for immunity (from what? Myself!!), a couple of Hot Tamale candies that fell out from their box, some smushed York peppermint candy patties, a measuring tape, and my favorite tissues that are imprinted with "I see London-I see France-I travel the world in frilly underpants!" Those are from Hobby Lobby! At least today I didn't pull out one of the many dog leads or books that is usually in there. For the sake of all, I won't go into detail about the large amounts of tobacco and trash that was in the bottom of said purse. But let me tell you this, I could survive on a small island in the middle of nowhere if my plane went down. At least for a few days! Should I be embarrassed? What's in your purse? Go ahead and tell me; inquiring minds want to know!

It's only Weds....

2009-08-05T08:24:00.003-05:00

Just a long ramble about the week so far: It began with an e-mail late Saturday night after coming home from going to see the Counting Crows. Earlier during the day, we wasted about 5 hours on car shopping. Aagghh. Anyway, checked my e-mail when we'd gotten home and there was a post about an Airedale left in League City's 24 hour Animal Hospital by the local cops. They'd found him wandering in the middle of a crazy, busy intersection at 2 AM and couldn't get the Animal Control to open for an intake. The next morning, all the calls were made and yes, it was verified- an honest to gawd Airedale. Another TART member and I made all the arrangements for him to stay a day or two at a local Vet's clinic in Friendswood and Kris and I went to pick him up for transport. He was an old guy of about ten, with a recent grooming and very sweet. Of course, Kris was worried what would happen to him. I assured her that he would be well taken care of, one way or another. We left him in the care a very nice Vet. Tech. at the Animal Clinic that has wonderfully painted murals of Airedales on the walls. See the picture of him! His Dad called me the next morning in a panic. Apparently, the doggy Dad had gone out of town Friday, the three doggies were being fed by a neighbor, the gate didn't latch well after a feeding Friday night and they all escaped. Fortunately, they were all returned safely. Then, on Monday, I took care of Hyundai car stuff- windshield replaced(crack in it), etc. Supposedly, it makes a big difference in your trade in when it all looks pretty. Hmmppff. I won't go into detail, but let me say this about shopping for a new vehicle- NOT Fun. It's really hard to get a solid answer from some of these guys. Two dealerships, days and hours later (I quit counting), we came home with a new Alien green KIA Soul (pic in driveway). Not gonna do this again for another five years or till the 4-runner dies. The new car is cute and looks like an alien roller skate on steroids sitting in our driveway. But the best part is 32 miles per gallon. We still have my Toyota 4-runner with it's dismal mileage but it's paid for! It also can transport most anything- including numerous large Airedales and friends! Back to the story- after getting the paperwork signed and driving away at 9:30 in our new Alien roller skate, we still had to pick up the little Roux girl(formerly known as Ricki-see her pic-) from her new Momma's. I think they're in love with her! They had her for 3 days over the weekend but were leaving to go to Oregon for a week. So, she was the first 4-legged to catch a ride in the new Alien. She gets to go to her forever home permanently next week when they get back! Last night, I let her sleep free with her crate door open and she didn't eat anything! Oops. Maybe I just jinxed myself- oh well! My sister and I helped my Aunt and Uncle move a few things yesterday to the house they'll be sharing with my cousin. My Uncle and I entertain each other twice a week while my Aunt gets to run errands and get some free time to herself. Uncle Henry has Alzheimer's so it makes it hard on her to do the normal everyday stuff like going to the grocery. He has a porch swing that he likes to sit on in the shade. Did you know you can stuff one of those in the back of a 4-runner?!! Well, sort of- it was kinda of funny and we looked like the Beverly Hillbilly's going down the road but we did it! Life is always an adventure, my Grandmother used to say! Looking forward to the rest of the week. Have a good one ya'll!

Bentley's Momma

Long and wordy post....

2009-08-03T13:50:00.003-05:00
I was going to blog something fun today but as I read this e-mail sent to me from an animal loving friend, I decided this was what I was supposed to post today. I know all of you Blogger followers love the creatures of our world but there are some people out there that are still in need of a little persuasion in realizing that the shelters, humane society's and animal control's are unable to place all of the 2 and 4-legged's in new homes. Unfortunately, the reality is that the public is just not eduacated in how badly the rescues are overcrowded all across America. Just the other day, I was reading about someone needing to rehome their animal and the suggestions were to take it to the SPCA or similar places. Most of these places are having to euthanize ungodly numbers of pets due to not enough people adopting and just plain old overcrowding issues. For some reason, humans are able to find ridiculous excuses as to why they have to abandon their critters in this so-called economic crisis. Everyday I read about litters of puppies and kittens taped up in cardboard boxes on the side of highways, etc. They tie them to trees leaving a bowl of water and little food and move away with any second thoughts. What the !@#**? There is more but I won't go there- most of us know these things. So...please pass this on to any and all you may know that need a little nudge to make the right decision. Remind them of the wonderful rescue organizations that are willing to help and how a little spare change can go a long way to help feed a hungry critter! Thanks for reading my rant today. Have a great week ya'll! And go give your pet a hug for me!

The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.
Mohandas Gandhi

It begins like this: If you know someone who wants to rehome or "get rid" of their dog please read....

A man in Grand Rapids , Michigan incredibly took out a $7000 full page ad in the paper to present the following essay to the people of his community.

HOW COULD YOU????

- By Jim Willis, 2001

When I was a puppy, I entertained you with my antics and made you laugh. You called me your child, and despite a number of chewed shoes and a couple of murdered throw pillows, I became your best friend. Whenever I was "bad," you'd shake your finger at me and ask "How could you?" -- but then you'd relent and roll me over for a belly rub. My housebreaking took a little longer than expected, because you were terribly busy, but we worked on that together. I remember those nights of nuzzling you in bed and listening to your confidences and secret dreams and I believed that life could not be any more perfect. We went for long walks and runs in the park, car rides, stops for ice cream(I only got the cone because "ice cream is bad for dogs" you said) and I took long naps in the sun waiting for you to come home at the end of the day. Gradually, you began spending more time at work and on your career and more time searching for a human mate. I waited for you patiently, comforted you through heartbreaks and disappointments, never chided you about bad decisions and romped with glee at your homecomings and when you fell in love. She, now your wife, is not a "dog person" - - still I welcomed her into our home, tried to show her affection and obeyed her. I was happy because you were happy. Then the human babies came along and I shared your excitement. I was fascinated by their pinkness, how they smelled and I wanted to mother them too. Only she and you worried that I might hurt them and I spent most of my time banished to another room or to a dog crate. Oh, how I wanted to love them, but I became a "prisoner of love." As they began to grow, I became their friend. They clung to my fur and pulled themselves up on wobbly legs, poked fingers in my eyes, investigated my ears and gave me kisses on my nose. I loved everything about them and their touch -- because your touch was now so infrequent -- and I would've defended them with my life if need be. I would sneak into their beds and listen to their worries and secret dreams and together we waited for the sound of your car in the driveway. There had been a time, when others asked you if you had a dog, that you produced a photo of me from your wallet and told them stories about me. These past few years, you just answered "yes" and changed the subject. I had gone from being "your dog" to "just a dog" and you resented every expenditure on my behalf. Now, you have a new career opportunity in another city and you and they will be moving to an apartment that does not allow pets. You've made the right decision for your "family," but there was a time when I was your only family. I was excited about the car ride until we arrived at the animal shelter. It smelled of dogs and cats, of fear, of hopelessness. You filled out the paperwork and said "I know you will find a good home for her." They shrugged and gave you a pained look. They understand the realities facing a middle-aged dog, even one with "papers." You had to pry your son's fingers loose from my collar as he screamed "No, Daddy! Please don't let them take my dog!" And I worried for him, and what lessons you had just taught him about friendship and loyalty, about love and responsibility, and about respect for all life. You gave me a good-bye pat on the head, avoided my eyes and politely refused to take my collar and leash with you. You had a deadline to meet and now I have one, too. After you left, the two nice ladies said you probably knew about your upcoming move months ago and made no attempt to find me another good home. They shook their heads and asked,
"How could you?" They are as attentive to us here in the shelter as their busy schedules allow. They feed us, of course, but I lost my appetite days ago. At first, whenever anyone passed my pen, I rushed to the front, hoping it was you that you had changed your mind -- that this was all a bad dream... or I hoped it would at least be someone who cared, anyone who might save me. When I realized I could not compete with the frolicking for attention of happy puppies, oblivious to their own fate, I retreated to a far corner and waited. I heard her footsteps as she came for me at the end of the day and I padded along the aisle after her to a separate room. A blissfully quiet room. She placed me on the table and rubbed my ears and told me not to worry. My heart pounded in anticipation of what was to come, but there was also a sense of relief. The prisoner of love had run out of days. As is my nature, I was more concerned about her. The burden which she bears weighs heavily on her and I know that, the same way I knew your every mood. She gently placed a tourniquet around my foreleg as a tear ran down her cheek. I licked her hand in the same way I used to comfort you so many years ago. She expertly slid the hypodermic needle into my vein. As I felt the sting and the cool liquid coursing through my body, I lay down sleepily, looked into her kind eyes and murmured, "How could you?" Perhaps because she understood my dog speak, she said, "I'm so sorry." She hugged me, and hurriedly explained it was her job to make sure I went to a better place, where I wouldn't be ignored or abused or abandoned, or have to fend for myself -- a place of love and light so very different from this earthly place. And with my last bit of energy, I tried to convey to her with a thump of my tail that my "How could you?" was not directed at her. It was directed at you, My Beloved Master, I was thinking of you. I will think of you and wait for you forever. May everyone in your life continue to show you so much loyalty.

A Note from the Author: If "How Could You?" brought tears to your eyes as you read it, as it did to mine as I wrote it, it is because it is the composite story of the millions of formerly "owned" pets who die each year in American & Canadian animal shelters.

Please use this to help educate, on your websites, in newsletters, on animal shelter and vet office bulletin boards. Tell the public that the decision to add a pet to the family is an important one for life, that animals deserve our love and sensible care, that finding another appropriate home for your animal is your responsibility and any local humane society or animal welfare league can offer you good advice, and that all life is precious.

Please do your part to stop the killing, and encourage all spay & neuter campaigns in order to prevent unwanted animals. Please pass this on to everyone, not to hurt them or make them sad, but it could save maybe, even one, unwanted pet.

Remember...They love UNCONDITIONALLY.

Everything Happens for a Reason

2009-07-30T07:46:00.003-05:00

Little Miss Ricki "Roux" has a new forever home to go live in soon. I started posting her picture on my Facebook a while back thinking someone may express an interest and WooHoo- guess what?!! Two of our ladies with whom we volunteer with in a group called AssistHers have come forward to adopt her. These two ladies lost their Thibidoux as he went to the Rainbow Bridge last year and their Boux has been the one and lonely in need of a new sibling. They like big scruffy dogs, decided to meet Ricki Roux last Sunday, she must have won them over with her goofiness that day. She went over to meet their "Big" boy Boux last night. All went well and she will be going to live there after they get back from vacation in a week or two. Boux is a rather large boy (125 lbs) and she was a bit intimidated at first but they liked each other. There is even a pool that the 4-legged's are allowed to swim in but they have to dry off before they are allowed back in the house! This is a good thing since Ricki Roux loves to swim in her water bowl and has turned our house into an indoor swimming pool. Aagghh! I've never seen a dog that likes water so much! She is healing quite nicely, acting her doofus self entertaining us humans with her pup-like antics. Both of the lovely ladies are runners and go run on the bayou every morning. Ricki Roux will be able to use up some of the exuberant energy that is part of her character! As for the "Roux" part of her name now, it's traditional for these ladies to have a little coon*ss flair in their 4-legged's name since one of them proudly hails from the Louisiana area! Life is good! There are wonderful people on this great planet we live on! Let's have one more WooHoo to celebrate happy endings!

Home from surgery!

2009-07-27T17:36:00.003-05:00

Poor little girl. Brought her home, gave a tiny drink of water and she went to her kennel (bedroom) and lay down to rest. I was really worried that she might think I'd abandoned her at that big scary place. Oh, the things we worry about.

Spay Day today...

2009-07-27T07:34:00.002-05:00

Today, Little Miss Ricki goes in to get her surgery. She's already looking at me with that look. You know the one; Where is my breakfast? I'll drop her off and bring her home about 5:30. Let's hope she stays calm while it heals! Have a good day!

Destruction and Chaos rules this house...

2009-07-23T12:56:00.003-05:00

Well, sort of! The new foster girl is a bundle of puppy energy- big puppy energy. She has finally adjusted to the fact that she WILL be sleeping in the crate at night. She was crying quite a bit the first two nights, then "VOILA" she calmed down due to an unamused Kris trying to get to sleep so she wouldn't be groggy at work in the AM. Now, a whimper or two or three and a couple of firm No's- lay down and go night, night and she relaxes. Not exactly sure how old she is but she is definitely in chew mode. Purchased another new Kong and stuffie flea toy with dangling legs that she is enthralled with for the moment. Don't quite think that flea toy is going to be around very long but if it keeps her from eating the house or her bedding, then it's all good. Our littlest boy Jax- the little old man, Chihuahua, adores her. He gets in her crate to sleep during the day and looks up at her with love-smitten eyes when they are out in the yard and house together! We did have an incident with her and Bentley on Sunday but all has been well; just a bit of grumbling from him when she gets in his space. He wanted to play with her on Tuesday and dummy that I am, I encouraged them. In the house, no less! Not a good idea with two dogs their size. He started butt-tucking and trying to play with her and she wasn't quite sure he wasn't going to eat her and she got puppy excited, backed away and ran in a big circle sliding straight backwards into my Grandmother's table. The table rocked hard, the lamp lay down, and the antique glass jar with cherry sours (didn't break) hit the floor. Sadly, the glass cookie jar on that table (I know) came crashing down into a million pieces of glass. What a mess! She was terrified of the crash and thought she was in big trouble, Bentley hauled a#$&* and I was left standing there- feeling really stupid for instigating. On another note, I have come across some wonderful volunteer people in the Houston area while I was trying to find an appt. for Ricki's (aka Lucy) spay date that won't cost an arm and a leg. We have an appt. for Monday at 8:30 with a lady that will let her slide in with her group fee at the Humane Society. This kind lady will also help with getting her adopted if my contacts fall through. Rescue Volunteers rock, I've decided! Thanks for all the good wishes on the posts. I do wish we could keep her but it goes against my code for helping with rescue. If I keep just one, then we run out of room for the emergency 'Dales (and mixes) that need a place to lay their head down somewhere down the line. We are very limited on space and I have to keep that in mind. It is really hard to let them go but we make sure it is the best possible forever home! Ya'll have a great end of the week and 'till next time!

HAPPY Wags and ARROOO'S to you!
Karen, Bentley Beargrass,
Bridgette, Jax, Walter
and Ricki the Foster Girl (aka Lucy)!

Puppy madness...

2009-07-20T15:53:00.004-05:00

Oh my. Should I say, "I shouldn't have?" It is too late for that. She would have been put to sleep as her time was up a week and half ago. So we come home with an Airedale mix from the Missouri City Animal Control Saturday after being alerted to a possible Airedale in shelter. Texas Rescue has no room or money for mixes. Vet approximates 6 to 12 months old. Definitely a puppy, though. Wants to chew my shoes. Bought her a red bone Kong and I freeze it with peanut butter. She cries for an hour in her crate every night. Learning to pee and poop outside. Almost there. Working on an appt. to get her spayed for a reasonable price. There is almost no such thing. Bentley is not amused at her exuberance and wanted to eat her yesterday when she wouldn't leave him alone. Her name needs to be Lucy as in I love Lucy because she is really doofus and silly and cute and smart. For now, it is Ricki. Incredible amounts of energy and butt-stuck like a piece of Velcro to me or Kris. She is a foster. Hopefully, the manager at PetSmart will decide for sure that he wants her next Monday. Send lots of Aire-Zen. Tired! Kris asked me what happened to the transport and paperwork aspect of rescue that I volunteered for. All I can say is I'm a sucker for so-called throwaway dogs. Hope everyone is well and will update as time allows!

pouting because...

2009-07-16T08:26:00.003-05:00

Poor Bentley. The nephews got to meet the Mama at James Coney Island for lunch yesterday and we enjoyed his favorite snack (other than hamburgers), without him. They even got cute hats from the management because they are little holy heathens! That would be our pet name for them when they are full of too much energy! Bentley knows all about coney's from that establishment. We always used to drive through there after work on a long weekend after leaving the grooming shop on Sunday's. It is our special little treat still- just can't go into the actual store as they don't allow 4-legged's in. We just go through the drive-through and get 2 dogs for him and two for me these days. Also, a large frozen lemonade shared with sticky beard boy is always fun! The Bentman has acquired a taste for cold, tart and refreshing beverages from there! Don't let him fool you- he'll be happy soon enough when we go by there for his weekly fix!

Hey- it's me. Bentley.

2009-07-13T07:47:00.003-05:00

12:45 and she'll be finished with that school stuff for a month...I can't wait. Then we get extra s'klaw (thinks she smart by spelling it backwards and I don't know what she's talking about, hmpf) in the park, more trips to the food place, and more time to play with her in the backyard! WooHoo! I'm so excited. So are my brothers and sister. Now, go take that last final that you use all those funny looking wooden things to write with and hurry home to us.

Cruizin' ....

2009-07-07T08:25:00.003-05:00

The Mama took me for a ride yesterday to the local food store. I hung my head out in the glorious 'Aire and viewed that big 'ole place where the Texans play something called futball! Then I got to pick out my favorite kibble to bring home to my family. I made her load it up in the back of our car 'cause I was tired from all the work that goes with shopping!

Everythings all right in the world!

2009-07-06T08:42:00.003-05:00

We made it through the weekend and it's a normal Monday again. Of course, that all depends on what you consider normal! Have a great week all!

Bentley and his Mum!

just a little wish...

2009-07-02T08:44:00.003-05:00

For something besides highs of 100 degree heat and the never ending lack of rain. Even the muddy water at the beach on our Gulf Coast is starting to look like a tropical paradise to these sun-fried eye-balls of mine. Tried doing a rain dance or two. Nada. Nothing is working. Don't want a tropical storm or anything close but it is the mother of holiday's coming up this weekend. Fireworks can equal bad news with drought. And I won't even mention how the 4-legged's react to the noise that comes along with them. Wishing and hoping.....

huh?

2009-06-28T18:30:00.003-05:00

Bentley informed me that it's too damn hot. He'd rather nap!

little miss maggie....

2009-06-23T15:57:00.003-05:00

Went back to her foster Mama to prepare for her forever home in San Antonio this weekend. Maggie will be going through her heart worm treatment with her new Momma taking care of her! Sadly, she was too skinny when she came in to foster care but has finally put on some weight and can stand to gain about 6-8 lbs more. I think she'll succeed as her appetite rivals the Bentman's! Hungry baby. And...she is a squirrel girl. She will stay outside all day watching the fence line for a small furry head and bushy tail to appear and play hide and seek with her. It was quite fun watching her antics. Bentley and Maggie had lots of fun together and played biteyface in the house and were shooed out into the yard quite often. This was an excellent first time out with a female foster 'Dale since Maggie is not an aggressive alpha girl. I've been nervous about fostering a female with the Bentman. I have vivid images of a past experience. Of course, the first time was a year old 'Dale girl that had lived on the streets for most of her life. She gradually acclimated and became quite nice! The second time was when I moved back to Houston-town; living in a house out in the country, sharing a yard with my neighbors and their Lab-Boxer mix. It turned out she was picking on him while I was gone at work and he was hiding from her during the day. He turned up with a wound on his neck but I (dummy me) thought he'd just caught it on something. A week later, the two got into a horrendous fight and he almost killed her. I was going out the gate to work one morning and as I turned around to say,bye- be a good boy, the next thing I knew was that they were going up on two legs like grizzly bears trying to kill each other. I ran back in to get them apart and succeeded in pulling Bentley off her and we both fell back into the bushes with me holding his collar in my hand. The other dog came in fighting and I guess my boy thought she was going after me and he went back for the kill. Bad wounds on all of us. Vet and doctor visits. Thankfully, neighbors came running to help. A really bad experience but I learned a lot about dog fights and what not to do. Never, ever, put yourself in the middle of two large dogs fighting. Use water hoses, don't yell, stay calm and if there are two humans, pull the dogs back legs out and up to cause them to release and stop their fight. Anyway, I had to move. For a long time I was afraid that it was Bentley who had developed aggressive tendencies. After awhile I figured out it that he doesn't and I was able to let go of my fear. After all, he was raised by my old Rosie girl(mix) and Luke the Duke(Airedale), Sam, a female Weimaraner, all@RB now, with nary an issue. Now he lives peacefully with Walter and Jax, the little Chihuahuas, and Bridgette the Bassett Hound. Just goes to show, the third time around is the trick! Thanks Maggie for sharing your sweet self and helping me trust again! We'll miss you pretty girl. Godspeed to your forever home!

Karen(Bentley's Mama)

Monday, monday...

2009-06-22T08:39:00.005-05:00

Too much fun!

a guest named Maggie!

2009-06-16T18:07:00.004-05:00

Five year old Miss Maggie has come to visit with us for the next 5 days! Her foster is going out of town to Corpus and we get get to enjoy her sweet face and timid kisses. Miss Maggie and the Bentman will go for a walk later when it cools down. It's HOT, HOT, HOT, and it's only June. Right now, it's a high of 97. Whew. Needs to be Fall already; getting a tan's not that important! Oh well, we'll keep you posted on how the week progresses. Stay cool in the Aire-conditioning!

Cheezeburger Kookies!

2009-06-15T20:58:00.005-05:00

Not just another manic Monday. We won cookies from Aunt Lydia on the ADT list we lurk on. There is a Kookie contest and we decided to enter using the key word Snap with many variations! It was lot's of fun and we came in runner-up. WooHoo! These cookies smell sooooo good that Bentley inhaled and they were gone in a snap. No, not really. He shared with his siblings and woofed for more and shared again and woofed again till the Momma had to say, "No More Cookies Tonight!" I think I need to see about getting that recipe since the Kookies are such a big hit. Much better than the Alpo snaps or even the Blue Dog bakery ones with molasses and peanut butter! They think they're in Cheezeburger heaven or something! I dare say we are, huh?!!!