Wednesday, November 30, 2011

DRUMROLLL please!

Come on, drumroll......tatatatatatatatatatatatatata...

We pushed, we prodded, we begged... we whined and we finally got our way!

We got auntie Robin to part with some of her best recipes for yummy, safe, healthy dog food and dog remedies. And she had help!  Thank you auntie Jody xoxoxoxoxox. WAGGG!   Think this was easy? Think again. But now, world, you can buy a copy of the first TBFR cookbook!!!!! [Yes there will be more, diet specific ones, even...]

Every single recipe has been tested over and over... [smiling here, next time auntie Robin comments on my weight, I am going to tell her it was the price of QUALITY CONTROL.... hahahahaha]  and there is only 30+ yrs experience with behind these recipes. Do the math... What is it like to feed an average of 22 Bichons per day for almost 30 yrs?  Chef Micheal, can you say that?  Oh no, you are only a figment of some ad guy's puny imagination... never mind...

And no Christmas stocking is complete without a copy. Seriously.  The book is called

Recipes to the Rescue!
The recipes are easy, fun, use easily accessible ingredients and the dogs love them!
      60 pages, there is also a section on practical helps such as making "Flea Tea" and  gentle dog shampoo.

$10 plus $2.50 shipping.

and you can get one on: the Bichon Boutique

'vie

When doggy dreams become reality





 

Be still my puppy heart.  I spent all night dreaming of yummy turkey jerky.
I thought the smell was all in my head and now I find out it was in my nose!
After my morning walk I watched momma take a tray out of the oven,
swoooooooooon
turkey jerky
yuuuuuuummmm
that smell was not just in my head?
Oh life is good. Life is really good.

Momma, if you don't want to put all that away, just put the tray down somewhere and we will take care of it.  Yea, that's the ticket, we will "take care of it".

Oh? Tasteeee Tuesday?
Simple recipe: place slices of turkey breast on non stick oven tray. turn oven on to 185-200 or lowest setting on your oven. Go to sleep.  When you wake up the magic will have happened. Oh, if you do season anything, go very very light as the flavors intensify in the drying process.

DONE.  Got to go find a paper towel, I drooled a puddle.

'vie


 

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

PLEASE READ THIS AND SHARE IT

This is what is set to start happening at Cumberland County Animal Control in Fayetteville, NC. There is a breed ban set to go into affect Monday the 5th of December all Dobermans, Rottweilers, Chow Chows, German Shepherds, Great Danes, Pitbulls, Mastiffs(all bully breeds), Akitas and Huskies. These dogs will be held for the mandatory 72 hrs and then will be killed, they are not going to be given a chance to be adopted. If the dog is an owner turn in then it will be killed the second it walks into the back. Cumberland county`s reason for this is not wanting to be held liable for these breeds and the possible bite from them to the public after adopted from the shelter. Well I guess they shouldn`t adopt out chihuahuas, doxies or any dog for that matter(no offense to the chi`s or doxies I love them too.) A simple waiver would solve this I`m sure. We need to flood them and let them know that this is not the answer. Contact info on the commissioners is below as is Dr John Lauby(the one that hired the gunman to shoot the fayetteville dogs) and the mayors info is there too.
 
Thank you,
Maureen Lee
 
Mayor Anthony G. Chavonne
433 Hay Street
Fayetteville, NC 28301
910-433-1992, 910-433-3401
Fax 433-1948
 
Dr. John Lauby
Director of Animal Services
Cumberland County Animal Control
4704 Corporation Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28306
Animal Control Phone: 910-321-6845, 910-321-6844,
910-321-6826, 910-321-6827,910-321-6945, 910-321-6965
910-321-6852 Fax: 910-223-3357
 
Kenneth S. Edge
Chairman
Mailing Address:
PO Box 1829
Fayetteville, NC 28302
Office:910-678-7771
Home:910-425-0918
District:District 2
Term Expiration:December 2012
 
Marshall Faircloth
Vice Chairman
Mailing Address:
PO Box 1829
Fayetteville, NC 28302
Office:910-678-7771
Work:910-323-1040
District:District 2
Term Expiration:December 2012
 
Dr. Jeannette M. Council
Mailing Address:
PO Box 1829
Fayetteville, NC 28302
Office:910-678-7771
Home:910-488-0691
District:District 1
Term Expiration:December 2014
 
Charles Evans
Mailing Address:
PO Box 1829
Fayetteville, NC 28302
Office:910-678-7771
Home:910-978-6643
District:At-Large
Term Expiration:December 2014
 
Jimmy Keefe
Mailing Address:
PO Box 1829
Fayetteville, NC 28302
Office:910-678-7771
Work:910-323-1791
District:District 2
Term Expiration:December 2012
 
Billy R. King
Mailing Address:
PO Box 1829
Fayetteville, NC 2 8302
Office:910-678-7771
Work:910-822-6676
District:District 1
Term Expiration:December 1, 2014
 
Edward Melvin
Mailing Address:
PO Box 1829
Fayetteville, NC 28302
Office:910-678-7771
Cell:910-391-4028
District:At-Large
Term Expiration:December 2014
 

Monday, November 28, 2011

QC is a full time job

 

At first blush it appears as if I am just chilling out doing nothing.  Steeping in the art of the dolce far niente. But, if you have ever been in charge of quality control, than you know that the job is far more difficult than it appears. It is a mix of "control" and laissez faire.   Knowing when to step in and knowing when to step out. Too much control and you squelch the creative process of the "artist". Not enough control and you run the risk of letting the over confident cook into mucking with a venerable recipe to the point of destruction. It is a fine line, a balancing act.  I rely on my nose to lead my actions. IT KNOWS. The nose knows when there is enough nutmeg. IT knows when the bread is about to go from perfect to burnt, and I have to be able to step in and alert the momma.

To that end I have pretty much taken over the kitchen bed. I know JD is upset about this, but I am doing this for him.  Giving him time to enjoy his golden years. And I need to be close to action and still be comfortable.  The bed is to me what arch support would be to two leggeds.

Oh , did I mention that I am also an excellent taste taster? I am. And I am available for that task 24/7. And before you assume that there are no perils associated with that task, need I remind you that in this here household we run the gamut of exotica.  Yuh, America, from the Kategna to the curry, to the empanadas, to falsomagro, to the confit... one never knows what is coming at you.  This is not a PB and J joint. And the woman has some seriously wicked addictions to spicy and unusual. I am not complaining. Some of us have developed quite a palate. We even like aspic [jello is for daddy. UGH], and a couer de creme is welcome as is a grand madaleine... I am just not fond of peanut butter cookies...

And that brings me to the other peril of my job.  How to tell the cook that her latest offering is ...shall we say.... "caca" without risking a total kitchen shut down or worst... a complete alienation of affection and morsels?  It is not easy. Trust me. I use the dismissive lick, comforting technique.  You need to be honest and firm. Do not bury the taste bit. That just makes her think you are saving it for later.  Ick. No, you have to show her it's not good. You take it.  You sniff it. [do it even if your nose told you that from 10 feet away].  Roll it over, sniff again [OK pretend to sniff it again- it is called due consideration....] now look at her with your goo-goo eyes.  You know the look, eyes overflowing with love and compassion... eyes that say: "Momma, I love you, but this did not work. It is awful and if you dispose of it, we can both move on and nobody will ever have to know."  At this point she is likely to taste it again herself.  If she likes it, you are screwed.  It is staying on the menu. Thank goodness she hates horseradish as much I do... If she hates it, you still have to survive the "Is it salvagable" hurdle. Hopefully she will think not... otherwise, it is round two of the same...

I must admit I only recall a couple of incidents of total failure. She now refers to Marcy's recipes as "the crap that passes as food" and we do not venture in Marcy land. Two failures are just two too many.  For a while momma was testing recipes for America's Test Kitchen.
It was a mixed bag.  Some stuff was OK, some stuff was terrific and many recipes were just plain... bland...boring and a few were awful.  She stopped doing that when daddy went on a diet.

These days cooking and baking are the diversion from packing. No failures are allowed.

So... my job as QC is tough, and I take it seriously.

'vie

Loving up my Wendy Pooh



I really do love her. She is my best friend in the whole wide world.

'vie

Saturday, November 26, 2011

2011 Pet Food recalls per FDA

Recalls & Withdrawals

Recalls – of which there are three types – are actions taken by a firm to remove a product from the market. Recalls may be conducted on a firm's own initiative, by FDA request, or by FDA order under statutory authority.
-

2011 Recalls and Safety Alerts

IAMS RECALL per FDA

IAMS

Information current as of noon November 15, 2011
1065 entries in list

Recalls & Withdrawals for Animal & Veterinary Products
Melamine Pet Food Recall of 2007: Main Page

The recalls on this list are primarily Class I. Definitions of Class I, II, and III recalls. Additional information about how recalls are conducted can be found at FDA 101: Product Recalls - From First Alert to Effectiveness Checks.
Note: This compiled list represents all pet food recalled since March 2007. If and when new information is received, this list will be updated. The "Information Current as of" date provided above indicates when this Web page was updated; it does not indicate the date when the pet food recalls listed below were initiated. Once listed, each of the recalled pet food products remains listed, even if there are no new recalls associated with that product. Although we have taken care to make sure the information is accurate, if we learn that any information is not accurate we will revise the list as soon as possible. For initiation dates of specific recalls, click on the brand name and then product description links that appear on these pages. For recalls that occurred before September 1, 2008, a date range might appear in the initiation date field. The date range indicates the timeframe within which multiple recalls of this product were initiated. For recalls that occur September 1, 2008 and after, the actual initiation date of each recall event is provided for each product. If a new recall is initiated for a product that had previously been recalled before September 1, 2008, the food product will be listed again, with the new recall initiation date. If a new recall is initiated for a product that had previously been recalled after September, 1, 2008, the initiation date of the new recall event will be added to the previous date listed.
Pet: Dog
Trade Name: IAMS
Fiscal Year: 2011
Lot: 5 LB, UPC, 0 19014 12405 3, "Best By" Dates, 01Jul10 - 01Dec11; 30 LB, UPC, 0 19014 12430 5, "Best By" Dates, 01Jul10 - 01Dec11; 15 LB, UPC, 0 19014 12415 2, "Best By" Dates, 01Jul10 - 01Dec11; 37 .5 LB, UPC, 0 19014 12437 4, "Best By" Dates, 01Jul10 - 01Dec11
Product Distributed Quantity: 629284 bags
Product Description: IAMS VETERINARY FORMULA DOG DRY BAG, INTESTINAL - LOW RESIDUE, 5 LB, UPC, 0 19014 12405 3, "Best By" Dates, 01Jul10 - 01Dec11; 30 LB, UPC, 0 19014 12430 5, "Best By" Dates, 01Jul10 - 01Dec11; 15 LB, UPC, 0 19014 12415 2, "Best By" Dates, 01Jul10 - 01Dec11 & IAMS VETERINARY FORMULA DOG DRY BAG, INT LOW RESIDUE BREEDER BAG, 37 .5 LB, UPC, 0 19014 12437 4, "Best By" Dates, 01Jul10 - 01Dec11
Best Before Date: "Best By" Dates, 01Jul10 - 01Dec11.

Recall Initiation Date: July 25, 2010
Recall Completed Date:

Friday, November 25, 2011

Vaccines and consequences

This post comes from silvieon4's mom.


WLOS ABC 13 News :: Top Stories - Concern Over Rabies Shots For Pets



"Veterinarians are advising local pet owners to keep a close eye on their animals, after taking them in for rabies vaccinations. Both dogs and cats can suffer severe reactions, like high fever, joint swelling and loss of appetite. Some cases are more subtle at first, but can eventually become serious. If the side-effects present themselves quickly, it is important to contact your vet right away. Keep in mind, these problems can occur after any pet vaccination, not just the one for rabies.

Wednesday, November 23 2011, 06:38 PM EST


If you are a two legged who shares his or her life with a four legged, you owe your four legged friend a duty of care. You must get educated to be an effective advocate for your dog.

THERE ARE NO STANDARD VACCINES and THERE IS NO UNIVERSAL VACCINATION PROTOCOL APPLICABLE TO ALL DOGS ALL THE TIME. Vaccination should be only be done after careful consideration and evaluation of the particular dog at that particular time and place.


There are good guidelines set by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) Canine Vaccination Task Force and published here: https://www.aahanet.org/PublicDocuments/CanineVaccineGuidelines.pdf  Guidelines are just that- guidelines and should never be automatically applied to every dog at any time, but they help in the decision process.

Look at your dog. Asses his/her health, age, condition, medical history including allergies, present medications, and lifestyle.

NO VACCINE SHOULD EVER BE ADMINISTERED TO A SICK DOG.
EVER. NO EXCEPTIONS. A dog with a compromised immune system should not be exposed to any vaccine. The exposure to the vaccine could have catastrophic consequences.

For Bichons, vaccines should never be administered in combination shots or at the same time. Vaccines should be spaced at least 3 weeks apart.

Assess the risk of exposure to the "dangerous condition" you want to immunize for against  the danger of the vaccine itself. Where does this dog go that exposes him to the risk you are immunizing for? Giving a dog who lives primarily indoors, in a northern state, the rattlesnake vaccine [Crotalus atrox] is ridiculous and dangerous.


Any veterinary practice that advises multiple, repeated, bundled vaccinations is NOT practicing good veterinary medicine, they don't really care about your dog's health, they are simply generating income. Walk away from that practice and find a better vet. Calling the vaccination "ROUTINE" does NOT make them safe or necessary.
From the Canine Vaccine Guidelines:
"veterinarians in small animal practice in the US have
considerable discretion in exercising their judgment relative to the
use of veterinary biologic products licensed by the USDA within
their professional practice
."
Unfortunately, some abuse that privilege.  Well clinics run by large corporations in pet store are notorious for administering bundled multiple vaccines without hesitation. It is all about the mighty $$. So, be aware.You are not a responsible pet owner if you subject your dog to unnecessary shots. In fact you are quite the opposite... you are an irresponsible pet owner who is exposing his/her dog to unnecessary risks . You are negligent.

At the very least read the FAQ on page 28 of the Guidelines.  


Older dogs do not need any vaccinations except for rabies every 3 yrs.  Giving them a vaccine can literally kill them.

http://www.avma.org/animal_health/disease_risks_dogs/dog_risks.asp

As a human who has experienced horrible, life altering reactions to vaccines, I am vigilant, aware and sensitive to this issue. I have no problem whatsoever telling a vet "NO VACCINES".   I am a careful pet parent. JD is a living example of the consequences of bad vaccine practices.  No dog should be victimized this way. EVER.


Silvie on2.

Thursday, November 24, 2011

put it on the table and then back away nice and easy...

My job as KS is never done. [Kitchen Supervisor] I am actually QC  [Quality Control]... tough job.


Let me look!!!  What is that? Corn muffin.... yuck.... as if I would ever eat corn..... YUCKKKK!
No, I don't care it is all colorful. It's corn...

Nice, Alton style? Ok, carve away.  I am watching... that platter goes on the table right in front of me.

 
  Ok, you are done, back away from the table, I will take over now....

'vie


Dear Dani

Turkey torture

warning to the turkey

 

postcard from the edge #2


How awesome was this sunset? No tricks, cell phone picture, the whole world was pink and glowy.... just awesome.

'vie

Postcard from the EDGE



SHARING A DREAMY VIRGINIA SUNSET WITH ALL, HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL.
BE HAPPY. BE KIND. EAT WELL. BE SAFE.

NOW WHERE IS THAT BIG FAT CHICKEN NAMED AFTER A COUNTRY???? AND REMEMBER..... TO GO HERE FOR YOUR TRADITIONAL GIGGLE: ~~~~~~~>http://www.silvieon4.com/2010/11/t-day-favorite-joke-from-back-in-day.html

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO Napoli!!!!!!!!!!!!! Goalllllllllllll

Tuesday, 22 November 2011
Champions League
Home Team Score Away Team Time
Napoli 2-1 Man City FT
(HT 1-1)
  • Cavani 17
  • Cavani 49

  • Balotelli 33

Hide team line-ups and match stats

Napoli

  • 01 De Sanctis
  • 06 Aronica
  • 08 Dossena (Fernandez 89)
  • 14 Campagnaro
  • 28 Cannavaro
  • 11 Maggio
  • 17 Hamsik
  • 23 Gargano
  • 88 Inler (Dzemaili 59)
  • 07 Cavani (Pandev 83)
  • 22 Lavezzi

Substitutes

  • 83 Rosati,
  • 02 Grava,
  • 21 Fernandez,
  • 19 Santana,
  • 20 Dzemaili,
  • 09 Mascara,
  • 29 Pandev

Man City

Substitutes

Ref: SkominaAtt: 53,000
NAPOLI
MAN CITY

Possession

  • Napoli 40%
  • Man City 60%

Attempts on target

  • Napoli 7
  • Man City 9

Attempts off target

  • Napoli 6
  • Man City 9

Corners

  • Napoli 3
  • Man City 5

Fouls

  • Napoli 9
  • Man City 10

Show all live text

  • Final Result
  • Full Time
  • 90:00+2:59 The referee signals the end of the game.
  • 90:00+2:23 Adam Johnson crosses the ball.
  • 90:00+1:06 


Of course I follow soccer, don't I look like I like to chase a ball?

'vie

Sooooo I hear we are moving....

http://www.thecoolist.com/dog-house-designs-10-amazing-examples-of-luxury-canine-casas/


so how about one of these momma?

'vie

NE Ohio Dog Fascinated by Beloved Children's Movie

NE Ohio Dog Fascinated by Beloved Children's Movie

 



Dude... it can never work... Babe is a pig... I mean really... a pig...


'vie

When vigilance fails... How to survive the holidays

It is THAT time of the year. You know... Big fat chicken named after a country time. Also time for the relative with the best of intentions and the least of understanding to accidentally poison your four legged. It happens.

How about avoiding that whole scene and printing this list? Print the list, put it on your bulletin board so that everyone who is in attendance can check the board before they share food with your four legged.

When something goes wrong, be prepared. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center experts are available. They are the premier animal poison control center in North America and they are your best resource for any animal poison-related emergency, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you think that your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, make the call that can make all the difference: (888) 426-4435. A $65 consultation fee may be applied to your credit card.
 
AVOID
Avocados
Acai Berry and Pomegranate
Almonds
Anise Oil
Apples with the skin on
Brazil Nuts
Canned Tuna (oil packed)
Carob Chips
Cheese ( some dogs are lactose intolerant)
Chocolate
Cocoa Powder
Coconut Products
Compost Coriander and Parsley
Corn
Cranberries Cranberry juice
Cucumber
Dog Food Containing Avocado
Eggs
Flaxseed
Food Coloring
French Fries
Grapes
Grapeseed Oil
Grease Green
Tea Herbs Ice Juice and other Beverages
Lemon Seeds
Luncheon Meat
Melon
Milk
Mushrooms
Nutmeg
Oranges
Pepper
Pistachios and Peanuts
Popcorn
Potatoes
Pretzels
Raisins
Shrimp
Sorbitol
Spices
Spinach
Steak Fat
Sweeteners
Table and Wine Grapes
Tomatoes Treats with Garlic
Turkey fat, skin, bones
Venison
Water chestnuts
Watermelon
Wine
Yogurt (some dogs are lactose intolerant)
Zucchini (some dogs get diarrhea)

You can share a bit of fully cooked, lean turkey. No skin, no fat, no bones. BE SAFE. Make this the best Thanksgiving. Ok I called it Thanksgiving, which means I will get some of that big fat chicken named after a country so I can give my thanks, right?
'vie

CVM Updates Preliminary Animal Health Notification - Chicken Jerky Products for Dogs

CVM Updates Preliminary Animal Health Notification - Chicken Jerky Products for Dogs

Consumer Updates Caution to Dog Owners About Chicken Jerky Products

CVM Updates FDA Continues to Caution Dog Owners About Chicken Jerky Products

CVM Updates FDA Continues to Caution Dog Owners About Chicken Jerky Products

FDA Continues to Caution Dog Owners About Chicken Jerky Products

November 18, 2011
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is again cautioning consumers that chicken jerky products for dogs (also sold as chicken tenders, strips or treats) may be associated with illness in dogs. In the last 12 months, FDA has seen an increase in the number of complaints it received of dog illnesses associated with consumption of chicken jerky products imported from China. These complaints have been reported to FDA by dog owners and veterinarians.
FDA issued a cautionary warning regarding chicken jerky products to consumers in September 2007 and a Preliminary Animal Health Notification in December of 2008. After seeing the number of complaints received drop off during the latter part of 2009 and most of 2010, the FDA is once again seeing the number of complaints rise to the levels of concern that prompted release of our earlier warnings.
Chicken jerky products should not be substituted for a balanced diet and are intended to be fed occasionally in small quantities.
FDA is advising consumers who choose to feed their dogs chicken jerky products to watch their dogs closely for any or all of the following signs that may occur within hours to days of feeding the products: decreased appetite; decreased activity; vomiting; diarrhea, sometimes with blood; increased water consumption and/or increased urination. If the dog shows any of these signs, stop feeding the chicken jerky product. Owners should consult their veterinarian if signs are severe or persist for more than 24 hours. Blood tests may indicate kidney failure (increased urea nitrogen and creatinine). Urine tests may indicate Fanconi syndrome (increased glucose). Although most dogs appear to recover, some reports to the FDA have involved dogs that have died.
FDA, in addition to several animal health diagnostic laboratories in the U.S., is working to determine why these products are associated with illness in dogs. FDA’s Veterinary Laboratory Response Network (VLRN) is now available to support these animal health diagnostic laboratories. To date, scientists have not been able to determine a definitive cause for the reported illnesses. FDA continues extensive chemical and microbial testing but has not identified a contaminant.
The FDA continues to actively investigate the problem and its origin. Many of the illnesses reported may be the result of causes other than eating chicken jerky. Veterinarians and consumers alike should report cases of animal illness associated with pet foods to the FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator in their state or go to http://www.fda.gov/petfoodcomplaints.

Chicken Jerky treats made in China kill dogs

Chicken jerky treats made in China kill dogs


This from Vitals at MSNBC:

Chicken jerky treats linked to mystery illnesses, deaths in dogs


featurepics.com

It's not clear why chicken jerky products seem to be causing illnesses and even deaths in dogs, federal Food and Drug Administration officials say.

Chicken jerky treats may be to blame for dozens of new reports of mysterious illnesses and some deaths in dogs, prompting a renewed warning for pet owners by the Food and Drug Administration.
At least 70 dogs have been sickened so far this year after reportedly eating chicken jerky products imported from China, FDA officials said. That’s up from 54 reports of illness in 2010. Some of the dogs have died, according to the anecdotal reports from pet owners and veterinarians.
FDA officials say they have not been able to find a cause for the illnesses. Extensive chemical and microbiological testing has failed to turn up a specific contaminant and officials did not identify a specific brand of treats. They note that the reports of illness have not conclusively been tied to chicken jerky products, also sold as chicken tenders, chicken strips or chicken treats.
The new warning follows previous FDA cautions about chicken jerky treats in 2007 and 2008. But after a high of 156 reports of illness in 2007, the number of complaints dropped. Now, it's rising again.
Dog owners and vets are reporting that animals may be stricken with a range of illnesses within days or hours of eating chicken jerky, including kidney failure and Fanconi syndrome, a condition characterized by low glucose.
Symptoms may include decreased appetite, decreased activity, vomiting, diarrhea, increased water consumption and increased urination. If dogs show any of these signs, stop feeding the animal the chicken jerky products, FDA officials said. If signs are severe or persist for more than 24 hours, seek veterinary help.
Most dogs have recovered, officials said.
Illnesses can be reported to the FDA’s Pet Food Complaint site.
Will you change what kind of treats you give your dog? Tell us on Facebook.
Related stories:
Xylitol-laced treats could kill your dog





Editor's NOTE..... THE DEADLY PRODUCTS ARE COMING FROM CHINA. IT IS VERY VERY EASY TO MAKE CHICKEN JERKY AT HOME. JUST FOLLOW THESE DIRECTIONS http://www.silvieon4.com/2008/06/byte-this.html AND, WE STORE OURS IN A ZIPLOCK BAG IN THE REFRIGERATOR. PLEASE BE SAFE.

Friday, November 18, 2011

FOR SALE: Europa Style Ice - a First Offering!



europa style ice, now for sale!**
**mug not included, ice will be shipped in a ziplock bag.
What is Europa style ice?

Well, watch this:




NOW FOR SALE, A FIRST! For the first 100 lucky buyers, a limited sale! EUROPA STYLE ICE CHIPS! BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE MAGIC OF FREEZER AND THE GOOD FOLKS AT ONE IS BORN EVERY MINUTE. WHAT IS THAT YOU ASK? IT IS ICE! EUROPA STYLE ICE, JUST LIKE THE STUFF BURIED UNDER TONS OF ICE AND DIRT ON THE FARAWAY PLACE.

HOW IS THIS ICE DIFFERENT FROM YOUR OWN ICE IN YOUR OWN FREEZER? GOOD QUESTION!
ONE. IT IS FROM MY FREEZER, NOT YOURS.
TWO. IT IS MADE WITH HYPER-FILTERED WATER. [THIS IS QUITE TRUE]
THREE. YOUR ICE IS CUBED. THIS IS IRREGULARLY SHAPED ICE PARTICLES MUCH LIKE THE ICE UNDER EUROPA.
FOUR. ANY AND ALL PROCEEDS FROM THE SALE OF OUR EUROPA STYLE ICE WILL BE DONATED FULLY TO RESCUE. IT'S A WIN WIN!!!!
FOUR IT IS ORGANIC.
FIVE. IT IS CLEAN.
SIX. IT IS EXCLUSIVE.
SEVEN IT IS REFRESHING.
EIGHT. IT IS DELICIOUS.
NINE. IT IS COMPLETELY CALORIES FREE.
TEN, ONLY A FEW HAVE HAD ACCESS TO THIS ICE, UNTIL NOW!

PLEASE NOTE, WHILE WE WILL HAPPILY SHIP OUR EUROPA STYLE ICE ANYWHERE, WE DO NOT GUARANTEE THAT IT WILL ARRIVE IN THE SAME FORM AS IT MIGHT MELT, VAPORIZE OR LEAK AND BUYER FULLY AGREES TO ACCEPT THE SAME IN WHATEVER FORM IT ARRIVES.

THE COST?  A MEASLY 9.99 PLUS SHIPPING!

NO REFUNDS, NO GIVE BACKS, NO GIMMES. ALL IT'S FAIR IN BUSINESS AND WAR. FOR PROFITS' SAKE AMEN. IN STUPIDITY WE TRUST. AND WE BEAT OUT EVERYONE else on THIS IDEA!!!!

Go me go me, go me...

'VIE [my neurons are on fire today! what was in that coffee?  Ahh made with Eurpora style melted ice!!! And I look younger too!- this is what you call a testimonial... from VG in Chesapeake VA!!!!]

It is time to do the DANCE OF JOY to the 3rd power!

So, everything is moved,  I am warming up, loosening up the off tushi and tail, and I am getting ready to BUST A MAJOR MOVE!!! It is time to dance with abandon, with joy and with pride!!! You got it world, not one, not two, but THREE of our White Dog Cottage residents are finally going home, to a their new forever home!!! This is what I call giving Thanksgiving something to be thankful for.  Cuddles, that little thief of hearts that worked the Fall Bash like it was her private showroom... is staying put her her foster parents [Mr and Mrs Cheesecake, my nickname for them and they know why....] flunked fostering. Cuddles, I am thinking of the song "you made me love you, I didn't want to do it...." and YOU DID! So, the nose nuzzle trick worked, ha?

Quincy boy! I hear Mr Houdini [Quincy does not needs thumbs, he can Houdini his way into anything!] has acquired his own family. Quincy, you will be taking care of your new brother Zachary who also was a TBFR grad.

And Frisco. Frisco your placement is going to leave a huge gaping hole in uncle Jack's heart. But he will be able to visit you! Reba needs you Frisco. She really needs you and I happen to know your new momma. She has the biggest heart and the sweetest soul. You are such a lucky boy.

Now, time to bust a move with a most righteously celebratory Samba.  Come on everybody, Samba rolls!!!  Forget Tognoli,  dance with joy and abandon, nobody is looooooooking...... One... two..... Sambaaaaaa!!!


'vie whose hips were made to Samba!



BIIIIIGGG NEEEEWWWSSSS coming

No, can't do it like this,I have to move furniture. I have to have room. Loads of room., Someone with digits, help me move the coffee table out of the way, come on... chop chop ....




'vie

Thursday, November 17, 2011

The art of giving face






If you want something, and I mean really want something, which of these faces would you send to do your bidding?
Help settle an argument. I think I have the best "gimme face" but some other dogs around here have different opinions [as if anything they say counts]
But in case anyone has any doubt... I get what I want 99.999% of the time and it's hard to argue with success.

'vie
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Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Can I has DAT?

 
You have a lot of those,  can I has dat?
Gimme one. I gave you cutsie voice. Cutsie yelp even. Tail wag? Wiggle butt? None of that matters?  Why not?

Why can't I have one for breakfast?  They look fun.  Of course they are not junk food!  You made them, you don't make junk!!! Gimme the one with the rose on top. I love flowers. I don't mind sugar... It's sweet, like me!

 
Ok, let's negotiate.  Gimme... the one with the heart on top I want to taste the little balls on it.
Again with the no. My my, are we "Mary Contrary" today?


Ohh how about that?   You share your "pucino foam all the times..." No, I like the feets you put on your cup. Feets taste delicious to me anyway. There are not feets? Feet. Sigh, the caca you have to put up with just to get a little sumeting sumeting. Ok , I bite. [I wish I was biting] what are those things on the cup?  Ahh  wings... if you say so... they make your coffee heavenly. Ooooh OK.  Can I have those? Do you know another word besides no?
 


How about that cake thing?  It has apples, you can't argue healthy!  It is full of apples!!!  Apples are healthy!! Who are you saving it for? Daddy. Daddy???? He is not even here!  I am!!!  I am the one who keeps you company, who loves you, I would never go to Ack run and leave you here!!! You just undervalue me, You take me for granite. Who is Grant It?  Granted?  Is that a real word?  I like mine better. Taking someone for granite means not worrying about them. Because you can do just about anything on granite and not hurt it.  I make sense. You don't!
 
 

What is that???? Turkey jerky.  Can I have that?? Yes?  SCORE!!!!!!  it is my breakfast?  Delish!  Can you put feets on it? Feet. No? Drat.  Ok, gimme the turkey jerkey!!! I am starving here!!!



'vie

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Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Yet ANOTHER JOB for a four legged

You are welcome. 'vie

JD's two cents. and roomer has it....

 
I am surrounded by females. All day long. All night long.  I do miss the dad, a lot. He sort of evened out the field. But. And it is a huge "BUT". I am the ONLY guy in town for momma and I am taking full advantage of that reality.  In fact, I have been getting quite a bit of face time with momma. And it is wonderful not to hear "Momma's boy" from the daddy camp. Shhhhh the girls have no idea that gets under my fur. Knowledge is power and keeping them powerless is the only way to maintain control. 
I have a new "theng" I do now. When momma is busy cooking or baking I find myself a grand observation spot [it used to be my red stripy bed, but that miserable little one has been napping in it lately because she has no concept of BOUNDARIES!]  Then I sit down and pose myself.
I know that if I turn on my eyes, momma stands zero chance of resisting me.  It might sound vane, but it is true. Look at me. Not bad for an old guy.  Nine, yes, in a couple of weeks, but this old boy still has it.  Momma says she loses her mind in my eyes.  [it does explain so much....]
Talk around the water bowls has been all about the BIG CHICKEN named after a country and all about the impending visits from both Dowi and Adam , and oh yes, the dad too.  I love it.  They are coming home for my birthday. Let's see... my birthday... my whole fan damily together... hey, sounds like a party!!!! Bring on the dancing girls! Can someone spot me a few bills, I am a big tipper.  What????  You do what you want for your birthday, Adam, daddy... are you with me on this???


JD



Editorial:
The opinions expressed in this post belong solely to JD who is apparently a closeted misogynist and momma should know that before she sheds one more emotion on him.  Nuff said.  'vie and I speak for ALL females.

Monday, November 14, 2011

Productive?













She calls today productive. Is she kidding? She hasn't touched my belly since breakfast!!! Frumpt...

'vie
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Where is Wendy Pooh?

Last night at my house:


 

Momma : " Wendyyyyy?????  Wendyyyyyyyyy.... time to get your teeth brushed....

Where is Wendyyyyyy???

Hiding. Hiding?  Where is she hiding?

Under the rolling cart with all the cookie decorations on it.  UNDER?????? She fit under????

Silly girl, come out and let momma brush your teeth. Come on, you big baby. Come on and give me those pearly whites.

So, do you think that I will go away if you ignore me? No, no, no..... come on, look at Silvie, she let me brush her teeth, and her ears and her tail, and wipe her face and rub her belly and kiss her and wipe her eyes, and her paws... and rub her belly some more... and brush her some more...

Well, maybe she is needy, but look how good she looks! OK.  Will you come out for your vitamin?  Yes the good candy. There , now we can go take care of your teeth and your tail and your ears....

Yes, it was an excellent hing place!"

Now, don't you just want to gag? Listening to those two just makes me want to gag...and why momma even needs The Wendy I have no idea.  I am mean, helllloooo have you seen me?  I love having my nightly routine.  I am all about the touching! I say let the Wendy get all matted, and nasty and icky and yellow teethed and let her learn!  I am NOT jealous. She is just a big baby! Momma, hold me... I love you ... You love me, right?

'vie

 

Sunday, November 13, 2011

Sigh

 

I miss TURKEY, already...
'vie 

Back off- I am working here!

 

No, I don't want to play. I am busy.  I am working here.  Momma has the big chicken named after a country. TURKEY.  She gave it a bath and now she is ??? Putting it into a soaking bath of some kind. Fascinating. This whole thing is fascinating.  And disturbing. Earlier she gave us baths. [Different story involving a duck poop incident and the three of us "styling" duck poop....] Back to present.  She gave TURKEY a bath almost the same way she gave us baths. Sans the white beautiful coat of course.  TURKEY  is naked all the way to the skin. But same approach to washing it. That just gave me the chills. It had to be a coincidence. Yea, nothing at all to do with momma's "I am going to eat you all gone" game... right? She is not a cannibal.

So... what's with the soaking "tub"??? Ahhhh brining. That stuff smells delish on its own. Pretty big TURKEY. I am glad Adam is coming home, because I have some real concerns about momma lifting this thing once it gets hot and juicy and yummy. Pardon moi. Drool puddle.
I am watching every single detail of this prep. Have to.  JD used to do this job. But lazy is sleeping and this is too important to go unmonitored.  

Stop.  What are those little things?  Don't put so many peppercorns!!!! Not peppercorns?  But they look like peppercorns. Juniper berries? Let me sniff.  Ohh I like that smell.  I have smelled it before.  When do you do the massage? Ohhhhh after the brine. 

Boy oh boy.  To make  TURKEY so delicious you have to be really nice to it.  Washing it, soaking it, rubbing it, giving it lots of spices, they drying it.... and then, finally.... cooking it.  I love that last part.  Ok, not to be nosy or something but is this bird big enough for everybody to take home left overs? And momma, WE.... meaning you and us also need leftovers! Yes, WE do!!!  Maybe you should get an auxiliary turkey.  Ohhh ok. The breast sounds yummy. Does it come with a fat liver? Yes, I do too want some of the liver. 

 I am giving momma the stink eye.  She eats only the liver . I love the liver and she needs to "diversify" her tastes.  I want a piece of the liver.  I am tired of smelling it on her breath and wondering how delicious it was. This is the year I get liver, and I mean TURKEY liver!!!

Wendy Pooh... move over you are blocking my view. I am on duty here...  Wait a sec,  what was that that you put inside the TURKEY?  It looked like a small bush. Ohh ok, a bouquet garni. Basically a small smelly bush that makes me hungry. Nice.

What do you mean?  Ahh show is over because TURKEY is not going into the fridge in the garage. Will it be safe?  Are you sure?  Do you need one of us to guard it?  We could take shifts?  No I have no idea who would walk off with a raw turkey.  But there are some strange people out there.... Momma are you sure it will be safe?  Ok. I am taking your word.

Everybody, let's follow momma out to the garage. Stay out of her way.... Follow, not lead!!!  If she falls the TURKEY is history!!!!


Oy vey!
'vie

Friday, November 11, 2011

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Reality check

So, the last post was a video of a Frenchie trying to play with a horse. So many of you were really taken but the apparent fun that an encounter like that might provide. Like you, I would have thought the same thing. Like you, I  would have become sullen at the perceived missed opportunities and I would have resented momma just a tiny bit for not affording me the chance and such fun. BUT, unlike you, I have a crazy momma. And in the interest of full disclosure, I am about to drop some free knowledge on you that will make you re-think any romantic notion you might have of striking up a close friendship with a horse. Yes, world, I am sharing from REAL life experience.

It was a sunny, gorgeous day in  spring. Keep in mind, I said the knowledge is free, but admission to this lecture has a price.  Keep reading . Don't wrinkle your nose at my "creative writing process". Reading that is THE price you are paying for that FREE knowledge.  Now let's move on.

The warmth of the sun compensated for the cool breezes and the frenzied activities of mother nature around you made you feel as if the universe was engaged in the common goal of renewal. Ahh Spring... I kept hearing "spring has sprung, the grass is risen oh when oh when will I get out of prison?" Is that a song??? Daddy???

Back to this story.  In an uncharacteristic gesture, momma vacated her morning schedule and offered up a walk. Yea, I know. A real, honest to goodness  WALK. Leash and all.  She actually went a step further. She gathered up the apples on the counter that
looked a bit pruny and she informed us that we were going to meet some horses.

Obviously an announcement like that creates lots of excitement. I must admit I was besides
myself. I must have barked ten million questions. "Horse?  What's a horse? How many legs
does it have? What does it eat? Where does it live? Does horse have any other name? Does it
wear a collar? How big is it? Does it like dogs? What kind of treats does it get and will it
share?? Is it pretty? What color is it? Does it have a tail?  Does it speak dog? 
Can it rub my belly? Does it know that I am a beautiful Bichon? Does it know that I have been
on TV and everything? Does horse know about TBFR? Does it go to a groomer? Does it ride in a car? Does it share toys? ...."

I could barely get one question out that 25 more would pop into my head. Wendy's reaction to
my excitement is to howl stuff like "Oh my, oh my...." you get it... useless. Completely useless.  JD did say he had met  "a"  horse at the boardwalk. He said that the
creature was not friendly, but then again, it was "on patrol" and it had a human on its back. I could not even picture that. Ick.  A human on your back... how bizarre...

Well, after the usual machinations and compromises, our harnesses were on, our leashes in
place and momma did her final check -tissue, duty bags, phone, keys- and off we finally went.

The first part of the walk was like always. Fun, busy, lots to mark, and lots to sniff. But
unlike "always" we ventured past the railroad all the way to the turnpike...past the fruit stand and...past the chickens and cow place. Finally, as we approached this strange looking
house which later I would learn it's a "barn",  we spotted what JD identified to be
HORSES. As in many many horses... Some naked, some wearing blankets, all four legged, definitely more like me and less like humans. I was so excited to meet them!
Well,  I was very excited. At first. That excitement was tempered considerably as I realized that those HORSES were getting bigger and bigger as we got closer and closer. Interestingly, all my questions were forgotten, except for one..."Do they eat dogs?"  JD assured me that they did not eat dogs. "They are vegetarians" he assured me. Imagine that,
teeth like that and it only eats veggies... wow.

Finally, we stopped by the fence, us on one side, the horses on the other and there we stood
sizing up each other. Huge. That's all I could say about horses. Ok that's not true. The
smell. At first I was embarrassed and annoyed at the smell. I thought it came from JD and I
did not want the horses to think badly of moi. I gave JD a dirty look and he countered with a "Not me, them." And you know what? That smell DID come from THEM.  EW. Seriously EEEEEEWWWW. They look pretty and shiny and combed, and one had it's tail all braided. But ...
me thinks they have never met a good coconut shampoo or a fresh rain cream rinse.

I was just getting over the smell, [the winds had actually shifted, thank goodness] when momma started feeding them the pruny apples, which they loved. Can I point something out? One, the apples were not even peeled... and two...there was no smoked cheese. Nuff said. Un---civilized...

We had all decided to "endure" this visit for momma's sake. She seemed genuinely engaged in brokering some sort of relationship between the horses and us. Until. OK. I need to find an acceptable manner of expression to convey what happened next.

[Here I am 24 hours later and no closer to any polite way of saying what happened.... so here goes nothing]

Without batting an eye, one of the speckled horses came by the fence and started raining pee...OMD... Gag....and before I could even react... yuh it started dropping pooh. Huge amounts of smelly pooh. Enough to bury someone in it. EWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Even now, recalling that moment makes me queasy and I wrinkle my nose. Clearly  horses have NO manners. Do they not know about pee pads? Or not eating while you pooh? Gross.

We could not take it anymore. JD pulled on momma's leash end and started her walking.  [I think she was grateful someone took the lead and had enough initiative to walk away.]

Now, while a chance encounter with a horse might seem fun, be aware that they rain pee and can bury you in pooh. Always keep a fence between you and horse. And don't let the excitement of a Frenchie led you to a different conclusion. Oh and on that human riding horse bit. I get it.  I would be ok with being on top where I would have a chance at staying dry and clean... vs underneath ....

And that's my reality check.
'vie

PS if you are  a horse and you are reading this...GET A CLUE!!!!  GET A BATH!!!