Jasper - Christmas 2011

Jasper wishes everyone Merry Christmas!

I do love that face!

Cullen and Patriot

Some of you have been asking for a picture of Cullen so, here's one that was taken during their recent visit.  I am including a few others so you can see how much he has grown!

Patriot always holds his ears like this when he's asked to do something he doesn't want to do. In this case it was a sit-stay ordered by Bree.

Patriot trying to get in on the lovin' that's happening!

Cullen using the suitcase to pull himself into a standing position!

Siskel and Santa

In case you are wondering who that silvered hair fellow is, he's Siskel, the puppies' grandsire. At 14, he looks wonderful and just received a clean bill of health!!  Siskel is owned by Nancy J Jones of Redwood City, CA. 

Merry Christmas Grandpa Siskel, Uncle Rio and Auntie Lyric (who aren't in the picture this year!)  May all your dreams come true.

Paloma's Summer of Showing

She hasn't been in too many shows but, Paloma is on her way to earning her Grand Championship. So far, she has earned one Select Bitch and four Best of Opposite ribbons for a total of 9 points. That includes one major and one defeated Champion. She needs a total of 25 points with three majors to complete her title. She looks like she's having fun with her handlers, Christy Marley and Erin Winton, but I think it's because of all the Great Bait!! 

Ziggy

I received a new photo of Ziggy from his Mom this morning. Because he is so handsome, I decided to put him as the featured photo! 

Ziggy lives in Canada with his Mom, Dad and Sister!

New Champion - Paloma

I am pleased to announce that Paloma is now CH Catch A Fire's Autumn Prairie Wind JH!  

Paloma finished with a 3 point major at the Timberland Valley Kennel Club show in Centralia, WA, on July 9, 2011, under Judge Ms Karen Rooks Nauer. She was handled by Erin Winton. 

 

I would like to thank Judges Mr Frank N. Summerside, Mr Carl Gene Liepmann, Mr Alberto Barrios, Mr Desmond J Murphy, Lawrence Stanbridge, Mrs Betsey Horn Humer, and Ms Karen Rooks Nauer for awarding Paloma the points she needed to complete her AKC Conformation Championship.

On July 24th, Paloma earned her first Grand Championship points. She was handled by Christy Marley.

We are so proud of Paloma and this award makes two Champions for Marley and Kirby along with three Junior Hunters!  

The Newest Addition to the Catch A Fire Family

Marc and I would like to introduce you to the newest member of the Catch A Fire Family. His name is Cullen and he was born to our daughter and son-in-law on May 14, 2011. The above picture was taken on the day he came home from the hospital. Paloma was a little reserved at first but warmed right up to him; as you can see she is giving him kisses.  Brianna took the time to slowly introduce each of the dogs to the baby, starting with Patriot and working her way down the hierarchy.

A few little things we did was to bring an item Cullen had used while at the hospital each time we came home. I made sure the dogs got to sniff, or lick the item so they would get to know the smell of the baby.  When the 'kids' came home from the hospital, all the dogs were outside, and let in one at a time. Patriot was really excited; afterall, he hadn't seen either his mom or dad for four days. I tried to do my best to distract him while they were gone but no one is a real substitute for the real thing!

Marley's reaction to the baby probably surprised me most. She became ever vigilant, waiting for Cullen to wake up, waiting for him to have his diaper changed, waiting for him while he had a bath, always waiting (and sometimes sneaking a lick from the Booty Ointment package!)  Paloma just wanted to give him kisses all the time and became a little annoying. Hannah would give kisses and leave him alone. She was more preoccupied to follow Josh around the house.

All in all we had a very good visit and I am pleased with the reactions of the girls. Today while on the phone with our daughter, Marley and Paloma could hear Cullen crying. They became concerned so I let them listen. I believe they will remember Cullen for the next time they are able to see eachother. I am hoping for a similaly successful meeting.

Take care . . . .