**FLASH***

Marcella is pretty sure that she DOESN'T like my new camera--- the flash is to bright. How do I know? Well... see for yourself:

Welcome, Angel!!

Marcella and Vinnie wanted to share a picture of their friend, Angel. She is a White German Shepherd Retired Guide Dog. She came to visit us a of couple months ago while her mom went to get a new Guide Dog- and is here for the Christmas holidays while her mom is out of town! Welcome Angel!

Christmas list...

Okay, okay, fine... I'll play... Here's Marcella's Christmas list...

Things I would LOVE to get for Christmas
1) My own soft bed- including comforter and several pillows
2) Dog Treats- that's good stuff! Especially the giant ones
3) Another puppy to play with...but I guess Angel will have to do (we're watching her over Christmas break!)

Things I wouldn't want to get for Christmas
1) An Ear infection-- I'm doing so well, I haven't had one in a long time!!
2) Less time with Mom-- or even worse-- a recall letter!
3) Rain- Mom doesn't like taking me to school when it rains...

I'm not tagging anyone because I dont' want to have to subject anyone else...
Merry Christmas everyone!

What do you think...

Sigh of Relief...

It's over! Finally! School is over...well for the year... I'll be back in full force on January 8th.
I'm on IM from 8-12 Tuesdays and Thursdays I'm here from 12-4 (MST) and probably on alot at nights now that I have nothing to do-- besides work. What to do for 4 hours... what to do...
Marcella is a fan of sleeping, going on long walks, and visiting Santa at the mall. I guess I get to have time to work on my Christmas card :)

You guys are no help...

Sheesh! You like them all?! That doesn't help me in my quest to find the perfect Christmas Card picture--- well none of them are perfect... but you try getting a good picture with a mopey 80 lb Lab and a 60 lb un-distracted Black Lab (couldn't get her to look at the camera when Vinnie was looking) Hehe... and Yes Nat- it is me in the pictures--- although today you wouldn't know it! I woke up late and didn't get a chance to do my hair- it's looking pretty yucky! On a brighter note- all I have to do today is:
Study for my History Final (and take it?)
Take my Botany Final
Write 3 papers (one page each on something in Economic Botany magazine)
Study for my Geology Final-
Not so bad considering what I had to do last week at this time-- I work better under pressure :)
Oh and I got my car fixed and it sounds wonderful! I dont' feel like my car is going to blow up at any minute! That makes me happy! Guess I'd better get going...

For your viewing pleasure...Which one for the Christmas card....

Which one to use for our Christmas card? Not this one^ I just thought it was cute :)
Vinnie is NOT happy to be here... Marce in a perfect sit!
Marcella, Me, and Vinnie-- again- Vinnie- not so happy!
Vinnie- again- is mad! Great one of Me and Marce if we want to Crop the big guy out...
AHH! Vinnie- finally happy! Look at that Smile!

My Amazing Marsha

Alright--- I guess I should probably update a little. I have some new pictures but my mom hasn't emailed them to me... My Marcella is getting to be such a good girl. She has learned to come as soon as I pull her jacket out and, if I hold it, she will put her head through it and wait for me to clip it under her belly and snap the leash on-- I think she was supposed to be a CCI dog... oh wait-- she could be a DGC dog- so I can come to Canada for graduation... HAH! If she was a little softer then I think she would make a great wheelchair dog... She needs a little harder corrections than I think GDB would want for a wheelchair dog. This morning when we were getting ready for school- my mom commented "Oh I hope her allergies go away- she would be such a great guide dog..." It's true. I'm really starting to love this dog... alot! AUGH! I wasn't supposed to do this, too bad I do it with every dog.
Well another day with my amazing Marcella- today I'm going to go up to the mountains and get pictures taken in the snow for our Christmas card... let me know if you want one-- or I guess I could post one here :) I'm such a nerd...

Acess Issues...all in the family

Augh! I had a huge long post all typed up and then lost it for some reason... ask me about my Thanksgiving. It was interesting from a puppyraisers prospective. :)
Sorry I haven't been online I couldn't get the internet hooked up at the house I was housesitting at...

saklkljmadskl

Hi- This is *-*Marcella*-*- I was bored and so while mom was helping someone I jumped up and am trying to figure out how to use this thing... Pretty good huh? Sorry about the title though- my paws are kind of big. I just wanted to send some puppy kisses to my buddies- Slluuurp! Good Luck to Rei- being a Guide Dog is GREAT! I wish my doggie mom had come up with a great name like yours- My mom tried to be original and named all of us "M" names- EVERYONE does that- sheesh. I'd better go! I hear mom coming-- Zzzzzzz... You didn't see anything...Zzzzzz

Puppy Breath

Awww... I got to talk to Erin last night and I know what her puppy is. Don't worry Erin, they can torture me and I won't tell them. ;) I'm so jealous! Can you bottle some of that puppy breath and send it to me?
I love the smell of puppy breath. Alot of people think it stinks- but I love it. It reminds me of the puppy truck and new babies (puppies, that is). Some of my puppies have had puppy breath up to 6 months- Erin- I wonder if your new boy/girl is young enough to have puppy breath- guess you'll have to let me know when you let everyone else know what your new puppy is. ;) Marcella doesn't have that puppy breath anymore and I miss it- can they make a breed of dog with perpetual puppy breath?
Sign me-
Waiting for Erin to update

Pictures as Promised

Isn't my girl so cute...
Watching the kids skate...

Sticking her tounge out :)

New Pictures, Please

New pictures coming right up as soon as I can. Marcella went to Classic Skating with me to day and she got to watch us play on the big blow up toys, skate, and play games. I took a couple of pictures and will post them as soon as I get them up. One of them is really good- if only it had a different back ground I would use it for our website- anyone want to Photoshop it? I'm not so good with Photoshop yet...
She's now SUPER tired and snoring at my feet...Zzzzzzz

A real entry-- wow

I guess I should write a REAL entry since the lat 2 have just been random things... Anyway-- the last week has been kind of crazy. I had to work on Moday and was on the schedule from 3:45-11 meaning because I had to work my other job (that I CAN bring Marcella to) I couldn't bring Marcella (because I can't bring her to my other job) to work so she was at home with my family for several hours. Anyway come to find out the schedule was wrong and I was an hour early... shesh! So I totally could have brought my girl to work... That's my gripe for the day... not very exciting.
So, I'm teaching myself Flash and I'm making a movie on...what else? Guide Dog Raising... and it's so cute- When I get it finished I will definitly show you guys!
Whatelse? Oh I took a Math test yesterday and my mind totally went blank--- I'm scared of what I get. I know I got at least 2 problems wrong (that's alot when there are only 25 questions!) See- When I don't write for a while, it's not because I have something to write about and I'm keeping it from you- it's because my LIFE IS BORING! I do school, Work, Work, Guide Dogs, School, Work, Work, Guide Dogs....
Oh YEAH!! All you Canadians out there should go see Santa Clause 3. Remember how we were chatting about Canadians saying "eh?" right before I went and saw it-- quite funny because- long story, short: They turn the North Pole into Canada and my all time favorite part is:

Santa's Father in Law (FL) who doesn't know his dughter married Santa: "This is Canada?"
Santa(SC): "Yup, Eh?"
FL- looking at the elves: "but they are all so short"
SC: "Yeah- this is what Canadians look like"
FL: "are you serious?"
SC: "Yes! Have you ever been to Canada?"
FL: "No But I've been to Upstate New York"
SC: "But that's not Canada is it?"
FL: "No...I guess not- Wow Canadians are little"

HAH...only because of all my Canadian buddies out there...Off to really do homework
Erin- get online if you can to help me procrastinate as the mission of our facebook group insists we do.

Decorative Harnesses

See what I mean... all fancy shmancy? These are the new swiss GDB harnesses. I think they are pretty cool looking. The logo on the hanlde is actually a refector and the handle is much easier to release. Also check out the buckle- it's like a puppy jacket buckle...

Please don't make me wait any longer!!

Alright Erin- I give up- What is it? I'm dying to know... ask Manny-- er I mean Amber... SHESH! Nat!! You made me do that! I'm waiting... waiting...waiting... and it's not even my puppy! My guess is a Golden though...

Feeding time at my house

Here's what it's like at my house at feeding time...
My puppy was being so naughty and well... you'll have to see- to get the full effect you have to have sound for the movies- but still. Do any of your puppies hear imaginary "okay" after an obdience set before eating :) LOL Enjoy! Happy Halloween Everyone!

Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Feeding Frenzy at Vinnie and Marcella's house

You Know You Grew Up In The 80's/early 90's if:

1. You've ever ended a sentence with the word SIKE. ---All the time...

2. You watched the Pound Puppies. ---Yup, I wanted one too... my friends all had one

3. You can sing the rap to the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and can do the Carlton ---"This is a story all about how, my life got flipped, turned upside-down and I'd like to take a minute just sit right there, I'll tell you how I became the Prince of a town called Bel-Air" Sad isn't it?

4. Girls wore biker shorts under their skirts and felt stylishly sexy. ---Nope... but it was pretty cute. NOT (see question 29)

5. You yearned to be a member of the Baby-sitters club and tried to start a club of your own. -YUP! I was always MaryAnn and in my diary willed my BSC book collection to my friend Heidi

6. You owned those lil' Strawberry Shortcake pals scented dolls. --- No but I wanted one!

7. You know that "WOAH" comes from Joey on Blossom ---Didn't watch it too much but...WOAH was pretty cool

8. Two words: Hammer Pants---My dad and brother owned matching pairs for Disneyland- blue paint splatters- home made of course

9. If you ever watched "Fraggle Rock" --- Vaguely remember watching on Nickelodeon

10. You had plastic streamers on your handle bars... and spokey-dokes or playing cards on your spokes for that incredible sound effect streamers ---I was a streamers girl

11. You can sing the entire theme song to "Duck Tales" (Woo ooh!) ---Once again... we do have it on video if that justifies anything. :)

12. It was actually worth getting up early on a Saturday to watch cartoons. ---Heck yes!

13. You wore a ponytail on the side of your head. ---Hey it was cute!

14. You saw the original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles on the big screen..and still know the turtles names. --- I wasn't allowed to watch it but I may remember the names, let's see... Michelangelo, Donatello, Leonardo, and umm... yeah no I can't remember

15. You got super-excited when it was Oregon Trail day in computer class at school. ---HECK YES! The best day of the year!

16. You made your mom buy one of those clips that would hold your shirt in a knot on the side.--- I wanted one but I just used a scrunchie instead LOL

17. You played the game "MASH"(Mansion, Apartment, Shelter, House) --- Vaguely remember

18. You wore stonewashed Jordache jean jackets and were proud of it. ---nope

19. L.A. Gear....need I say more? ---LA Gear was pretty Rad

20. You wanted to change your name to "JEM" in Kindergarten. (She's Truly Outrageous.) --- I don't remember this...

21. You remember reading Tales of a fourth grade nothing and all The Ramona books. ---Ramona was my favorite! I wish they still had the TV show on...

22. You know the profound meaning of "WAX ON, WAX OFF" --- Um... Isn't that in a movie? Car wax??

23. You wanted to be a Goonie. ---Too scary for me!

24. You ever wore fluorescent clothing. (some of us...head-to-toe) --- Guilty

25. You can remember what Michael Jackson looked like before his nose fell off and his cheeks shifted. --- ROFL!! He's always been creepy to me

26. You have ever pondered why Smurfette was the only female smurf. ---I loved smurfs!!

27. You took lunch boxes to school...and traded Garbage Pailkids in the schoolyard. ---I did take a lunch box- pink Barbie but don't know what Garbage Pailkids are...

28. You remember the CRAZE, then the BANNING of slap bracelets. I remember slap bracelets--- dont' remember the banning of them I thought they were pretty cool

29. You still get the urge to say "NOT" after every sentence.---- See question 4

30. You remember Hypercolor t-shirts. ---Don't know what that is

31. Barbie and the Rockers was your favorite band. --- Oh yeah... my friend had their tape

32. You thought She-ra (Princess of Power!) and He-Man should hook up. ---Didn't really know She-Ra well enough to put her and He-Man together...

33. You thought your childhood friends would never leave because you exchanged handmade friendship bracelets. ---True story! Remember those best friend necklaces? I had a billion of those and would always loose them (the heart ones where you have BEST and your friend has the other half with FRIENDS on it?)

34. You ever owned a pair of Jelly-Shoes. --- Mine were pink and sparkly

35. After you saw Pee-Wee's Big Adventure you kept saying "I know you are, but what am I?"--- Didn't like Pee-Wee Herman that much but I did say "I know you are, but what am I?"-- also remember "I'm rubber, your glue, anything mean you say bounces off me and sticks to you"

36. You remember "I've fallen and I can't get up" --- What is that from? We used to say it all the time...

37. You remember going to the skating rink before there were inline skates. ---Sadly yes...It really wasn't very long after I was old enough to sakte that Roller Blades became more popular

38. You ever got seriously injured on a Slip and Slide. --- We made our own out of a tarp.. OUCH!

39. You have ever played with a Skip-It. ---Those were the BEST! I had a darn good record too!

40. You had or attended a birthday party at McDonalds. ---5th Birthday

41. You've gone through this nodding your head in agreement. ---sadly...(sigh)

42. You remember Popples. ---Of course! I can quote the these song I think too... I wanted a stuffed animal Popple so bad!

43. Don't worry, be happy ---That was the coolest song

44. You wore like, EIGHT pairs of socks over tights with high top Reeboks. ----I think I saw the look and thought it was cool- don't know that I was ever brave enough to attempt it- I did wear tights with ruffled socks over it to church sometimes

45. You wore socks scrunched down (and sometimes still do..getting yelled at by younger hip members of the family) --- Slouch socks! I thought that was how you were supposed to wear socks-- esp with open toed sandals... :)

46. You remember boom boxes and walking around with one on your shoulder like you were all that. --- I remember seeing other people doing it- but was too young to do it myself (or even care)

47. You remember watching both Gremlins movies.--- Too scary for me...although I did watch it on the way to GDB one year in Traci's car... maybe 2002?

48. You know what it meant to say "Care Bear Stare!!" --- YES! We do have a couple of Care Bear movies though...

49 You remember watching Rainbow Bright and & My Little Pony Tales --- Yes...I had a friend that collected My Little Ponies

50. You thought Doogie Howser/Samantha Micelli was hot.--How does a 5 year old think that a 16 year old is hot? Samantha Micelli??? Is that from Wonder Years? Vaugly remember the name

51. You remember Alf, the lil furry brown alien from Melmac. -- I remember ALF... not too well but I liked that show!

52. You remember New Kids on the Block when they were cool...and don't even flinch when people refer to them as "NKOTB" --- I had a NKOTB Barbie before I knew what they were- my mom made me cut off the Rat Tail though- it looked silly. I really wasnt' ever a fan- I was more in the *NSYNC/BSB era

53. You knew all the characters names and their life stories on "Saved By The Bell," The ORIGINAL class. --- Original? Like Zach, Kelly, Slater, Screech, Lisa, and Jessie? Or the ones before that? I would know them if I heard them- but only because it's still on TV sometimes.

54. You know all the words to Bon Jovi - SHOT THROUGH THE HEART.-- Nope

55. You just sang those words to yourself. ---can't if I don't know the song

56. You remember watching Magic vs. Bird. --I didn't, but I'm thinking this is Magic Johnson vs. Larry Bird...

57. Homemade Levi shorts.. (the shorter the better)--- Not the shorter the better- but I made these after they were popular- yes I'm a nerd.

58. You remember when mullets were cool! -- We don't talk about my mullet years... j/k :) I had the poodle bangs

59. You had a mullet! ---Again Poodle bangs were the style

60. You still sing "We are the World"--- Umm... don't know the song

61. You tight rolled your jeans. --- Not sure what that means but I did roll up my jean shorts

62. You owned a bannana clip. --- SO! I thought I looked cool!

63. You remember "Where's the Beef?" --- Nope sorry.

64. You used to (and probably still do) say "What you talkin' 'bout Willis?"-- Only becuse I've seen so many child star countdowns/ 80's documentaries on VH1

65 You had big hair and you knew how to use it.--- Nope-- but again- Poodle Bangs

66. You're still singing shot through the heart in your head, aren't you! --- I DON"T KNOW THE SONG!!

Am I officially old now? What do you guys remember...

Oh and AMBER! I'm going through Chris blog withdrawals!

IM'ing- the way to go

Yeah I love my puppy! She's doing so well back at home- although I am housesitting so she's not really home. Do you guys realize now crazy it is to raise a puppy with 6 other siblings!! It's INSANE! I'm telling you! I'm ready for school to be over with- as you all probably know since I procrastinate homework and even listening in class to IM... Good thing class isn't to hard- at least not too hard to figure out after class :)
Shout out to Erin too :) I love chatting with you- and of course I always get a special surprise chat with one of your sisters LOL

I have a title now!

Tuesday night was our club Halloween party- There are pictures up on our clubs website under past events so you should check them out! Vinnie was a Wild Thing-- he thinks all labs should come with Devil Horns and Caution Tape :)

The costume didn't really even last that long!

SHE'S BACK!!

I missed my girl- and now that she's back it almost like she never went crazy and left. She has been an angel since last night (other than finding cat "leftovers" and trying to swallow them before mom noticed- we don't even have a cat! What's up with that?!) I thought I'd take her to work just to try her out and really she knew exactly what to do. She went right in to my office and layed down in her usual spot and went to sleep! I love this girl! We'll see how the next couple of days go to see if she's REALLY back to being my Marcella- pre-going-into-season-crazyness. :)
Puppy Kisses and Tail wags to Traci and family along with Kerby's for watching her for the past 3 1/2 weeks.

So I'm bored again at work and I worked on homeworks last night a bunch so I don't want to do that... I think it's kind of funny that alot of TPR moved to Blogger and Facebook... I agree Nat- we should make a Facebook group- but I think we should revise the name to: "Obsessive Compulsive Puppyraisers that like to procrasinate". It's really quite sad because I really don't need to study all that much.
Speaking of procrastination---Another way to procrastinate:
AIM: Vinnie30n6 Yahoo: gdprchika I have MSN but it varies depending on the lab I'm at... so pretty much if you want to chat on MSN you have to tell me and I will add you to my buddy list.

So I decided that Blogger is just one more way to procrastinate your homework... Sigh... I'm such a nerd.

JUDITH

So where should I start? In Spring of 2001 I wanted to raise another puppy- my family was deciding if they were going to move to So. Dakota (yeah none of you guys live in SD so pretty much I'm REALLY glad we didn't move there!!) so when we found out Vinnie was leaving us I asked if I could get a puppy right away- Mom said no because either a) we were moving or b) she wanted a break after the "monster" Vinnie ;) Well, we didn't move to SD but she did tell me we had to take a break... sigh... So I had to wait until August and maybe I could get a Golden Retriever. On July 13th (Friday the 13th- one of the best days!) I was scheduled for a puppy but my mom said no- a FBL "J" puppy. I went to SLC to go watch my friend pick up her "H" puppy... Sigh--- I guess I'd have to live on borrowed puppy breath for a month. When we showed up Traci got her "H" puppy-- Hoka- a FYL. And after my leader asked if there was anything else for Davis county they mentioned that they had one more puppy-- did anyone want it? They brought off the cutest FBL puppy off the truck! Her name was Judith! "Is it mine?" I remember asking... Then they handed my sweet Judith to me :) Born May 7, 2001 to Rashad and Eclipse with siblings (are you ready? i think...) Jewel, Jira, Joiner, Jeb, Judge, Julianna, and Judith. (I thin kthat's all of them!

Judith and Hoka- I have this picture on my Credit card... isn't it so cute?!

My Judi was a perfect lady from day one... she was always one to sit nicely, even at 8 weeks everyone was amazed at how good she was. I always told people that I didn't raise her- she raised herself :) By the time she went back on October 1st 2002- she was BORED to death. She went back and was on breeder watch until phase SEVEN!!! Normally they are pulled for breeding or spayed by phase 3 or 4... Soo FINALLY she was pulled for breeding and was sent from OR to CA for her final breeder eval- her sister Jewel had just been confirmed as a breeder. We were pretty sure she was going to be a breeder. She was in CA for 2 months when we finally just called and they told us she had a slight heart murmer and, although she couldn't be a breeder- she would make a great Guide Dog. :) So after lots of tears we continued to watch her go through the phases of training. She graduated on July 23, 2003 with Ruth and is perfect for her. There is a story to why Judith took a while to graduate that I didn't hear until after graduation. So while I was sitting at home dying becuase she didn't go into class with her string (almost 3 months late!!) this was going on: Okay... lets see if I can get this straight--- Ruth had her previous guide only for a few months and was having problems with thin foot pads. She was deciding if she wanted to retired her and get another guide. Keith (one of the class supervisors in OR) told her he had a perfect dog for her- but he wanted to traing her for Ruth- so even though she was ready for class- she had to wait until Keith was set to go into class- July. Keith trained her previous guides so it was kind of fitting that he trained Judith. Well the match was perfect and they've been working together for over 3 years now! Wow... it doesn't seem like that long... I got to visit them at Fun Day in 2005 and she totally remembered me! She got all excited- after she noticed I was there- and barked in the hotel!!! If I wasn't so excited to see her- I would have been embarassed- but everyone was saying "She raised that puppy and they haven't seen each other for 2 years!" Awww... Makes me want to cry just thinking about it! I wish I had a camera when I saw her... here's her at the hotel in 2005... going a little gray. I'm so excited because for spring break I'm planning on visiting her at her home in OR!!

Photo Sharing - Upload Video - Video Sharing - Share PhotosLook what I did!! Thanks Erin! This is Mango at work with me and her at home playing (I know it's bad but I had to try something out!)
Photo Sharing - Upload Video - Video Sharing - Share Photos

Isn't MJ so cute in her Harness and Bow? She doesn't look amused :) She's at her handlers son's wedding. I think she's my prettiest female I've raised...

Okay guys so how do I load a video? I was trying to figure this out and I guess I'm not smart enough LOL... I tried using drop box but it was having issues and not working for me! Help!
Then you can see my video of Mango I made... She's a cute 7 month old FBL puppysitee. :) Oh and whats a good video editing program I can teach to myself (that the school computers would have)?

Alright Erin! I did write an excuse on Saturday as to why I wasn't writing then- but it was probably not a good one. LOL. Here you go:

Vinnie

I can't remember exactly when my first meeting was, I think it was Dec 1999- I remember begging my mom for a dog (several different breeds- at the time it was a Daucshund/Chiuahuah Mix) and a friend told me about how I could raise a Guide Dog. I told my mom- making sure to put in the line "it's only for a year- if you don't like it we can give it up and be done with it" (Pshaw- yeah right) Anyway- So we called the 4-H office and got in touch with Cheri- our leader at the time- and decided to go to a meeting. It was at the county sheriffs office and the dogs there were all yellow Labs- Justrie, Jim, Hattie, Fabrice, and Bertha. From then on I was pretty much hooked. We got our house check, I read the puppy manual front to back-- several times in fact, and finally, finally, finally- I got the "puppy patrol" that told me I was getting a Male Yellow Lab "V" on July 21, 2000. So that day I was sooo sooo excited and nervous. I watched Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory to get my mind off of things- but to no avail. I really ended up just sitting downstairs on the couch trying to think of names. FINALLY at 12:30 my mom dropped the other kids off at the babysitters and we left for Salt Lake. :) I love the drive to the puppy truck- it's always exciting (at least the ones to pick up a puppy LOL) When we arrived everyone was waiting for everyone to arrive so they could start handing out puppies. Finally (notice how many times I use the word FINALLY! LOL) I got a glimpse of a yellow lab puppy and my leader said "I think I saw your name on the outside of the bag they're carrying!" Sure enough out came a cute, squishy, yellow lab puppy- with lots of yellow lab puppy breath! (sigh- this is making me miss my puppy) "This is Vinnie- oh look how much skin he has" said Char (the lady who used to drive the truck) She then gave him a kiss for good luck (used to be a tradition) and handed him over! Born May 18th, 2000 to Drifter and Maddie. Do you think I can remember all the litters names? Vinnie, Velour, Vail, Venture, Varney, and Varona... Awww... Good times....good times...
So at the time I thought Vinnie was a special puppy- with "special education needs" if you know what I mean- an intact male puppy with a first time raiser doesn't always go well. He wasn't a terrible puppy like I thought he was- but he was in a training collar at 4 months and in a head collar at 8 months and back in a training collar at 12 months until recall. Vinnie was never allowed loose at all- but I don't know that I wasn't paranoid and didn't know any better. He went back on July 16th 2001. I had a surprise waiting for me right before I dropped him off- but I'll save them for next time...
We thought he'd be CC'ed right away for dog distraction- but apparently he did well. He made it all the way to Phase 8 before being Career Changed for stress related Relieving in Harness... yup- he did have that problem in puppy raising- that's why I am a little paranoid about relieving. He had 2 sisters pulled as breeders and the boys were all CC'ed in the same phase for the same reason.. the last girl I'm not sure what happened- maybe CC'ed too? I seem to remember her graduating as a Guide for some reason though...
So when I got the call- I called my Dad imediatly and begged him to let me keep Vinnie- even though Vinnie and I didn't "click" as much as my other dogs while in puppy raising- I'm glad I brought him home. He is the sweetest most mellow guy you'll ever meet! I'm sure he would make a great Guide Dog now- but he seems to like staying home. When he got off the plane after flying home- we wondered if they sent us the wrong dog becuase he was so mellow- but when he picked up his leash to go for a walk- we knew it was him :)

So I was reading Joanna's Blog and because I'm a nerd I thought I would write an entry about each of my puppies and how I got them and about raising them. Starting... tomorrow or saturday... yup I'm pretty lazy tonight!

**Hugs to Erin!***

And Belly Rubs to Chandler and Jake who just got neutered- poor guys!

She's officially in season and will be gone for 3 weeks :( But good news is she'll be back in time for halloween costumes. I really am not a fan of Halloween but I like to dress up my puppies :) I don't know what they are going to be yet. I might see if I can borrow a friends Wizard of Oz Costume and Vinnie can be the Cowardly Lion and Marce can be the tin man and I can be the Scarecrow- someone else can be Dorothy... :)
So my dog woke my poor leader up at 4:15 this morning whining in her crate. She's not a big whiner in the crate- especially in the morning. I can barely get her up to go to work at 5:30 in the morning- let alone 4:15!! Darn dog... she just doesn't want me to miss her.
Oh I got her recall letter--- that is no longer accurate... She's staying until Spring. I feel bad for the raisers whose dogs went back because my dog stayed though...
It was exactly 1 year ago October 1st I let my Maryjo go back for training and brought home my wonder-puppy Marcella... Click here to see pics of us on recall/puppy pick up day

Here's a picture of Baby Vinnie for Erin...

Well... it looks like Marce might not be leaving me in October! I'm excited I will have her for another few months- but sad she's leaving in the spring when her allergies could flare up even more. Her eval went as well as could be expected- She wasn't terribly behaved- actually kind of good for the way she's been acting lately at GDB events- but still was being very "Marcella-like"- She's just not a mature dog. She is in "LaLa land" alot- and only pays attention to me because she has to- she likes to check things out. Funny thing- our CFR said "Oh she's Majestic's sister? I wouldn't even CONSIDER sending that dog back- why are we sending her back again?" LOL. She's just Marcella. I'm glad she will possibly have more time to mature. See I wasn't freaking out for no reason! Now I just have to wait until she emails Mick to ask if he can live with one less dog on the truck.
Oh Amber- to get a dog on food protocol your dog has to have focus issues and you need to talk to your Leader who will talk to your PRA who will then clear it through GDB... it has to be something that more focus on you would help. Guide Dogs have to be pretty independent thinkers and can't only rely on the handlers commands- that's one of the reasons it's a very controlled protocol. If your dog likes to work for you without it- GREAT!
And Vinnie was feeling Left out- Vinnie came from San Rafael too... He's a Drifter and Maddie puppy- both Black Labs (how wierd is that- he's yellow!) 2 of his sisters- Vail and Verona- I belive- became breeders and all of the boys were CC'ed in phase 8 for Relieving issues- how great is that- sheesh! The last sister I think graduated as a Guide- but not sure.
Hmmm... Vinnie's pretty sure his CC was all a set up so he could come home- he missed me :)

He came home and learned how to beg...

...And that he was allowed on the bed!

This month is where did you come from Month :) So Marcella came from San Rafael, Her mom is Kimmy (a Nagel and Lena puppy) and her dad is Faust (a Pickford and Rosabel puppy I think) Most of her family has been from San Rafael- at least as far back as 3 generations- and I'm sure a bit farther. :)
I've lived in UT my whole life- my Dad is from So. California and my Mom is from Utah. My maternal grandparents are from Germany brought with her parents to Chicago then to Utah(grandmother) and Utah (grandfather). My paternal grandparents have lived in California their whole life as far as I know- that makes me want to ask...
If you read this you have to post it on your blog "Where did you come from"- learn something new today!
Oh and BTW I completely messed my Matho homework up- i think I got like 50%- pretty terrible considering I've gotten 100% on all but one assignment- and that was like a 80 %!

AUGH! Math is driving me nuts today! I think I get it right and I totally blow the problem! Makes me so angry! It's solving systems of equations with 3 variables... any help would be appreciated... I think I should take a break before my brain is fried! I only have 1/2 hour left at work... I don't know that I will finish it at home... of course I will.
Marcella's final eval is tomorrow- Wish us luck! She did really well today- except we were practicing come- and she had *NO* interest whatsoever in the food! Is that MY girl?!?! She loves the FIR! What's up with that? She was just too interested of the smells of the duck pond- she should be coming with distractions- but alas- she is a "remedial come-er" I'll let y'all know how it goes tomorrow!!

Yeah so Target did a lousy job anyway on the pictures- I have never had a problem before-- but whatever. I'm going to take her somewhere else right before she goes back as long as she's not in heat- I had to at least buy one (plus a free 8x10) just in case I couldn't take her picture before...
I'm such a slacker- I should be studying for my test I have to take before 3:00- plus I didn't go to Math today- I can't believe I slept in so late- 10:30. Well I got up at 6 for family prayer and scripture study- then went back to sleep.
I went and saw "The Devil Wears Prada" last night- It was really good. Not somthing I'd buy- but a cute show and well made. I really like Anne Hathaway- I think she's a good actress- plus she's one of the prettiest not-fake people out there.
Marcella was very good at the Puppy Truck yesterday- we got a new puppy, Cuiro (like the cabinet) in our club. A Female Black Lab and it made me want a puppy. It's so hard to have Marce go back now because the truck won't be coming again until the spring- so I either have to take a puppy now or not get one until the spring- or take my chances that a transfer will be available soon... Sigh...Must go study for real!

Okay so I'm terrible at posting pictures- and abviously flipping them around in blogger...sigh- me and my computer skills (I promise I know how to use a computer decently!)

Marcella is so darn cute! I love this picture of her because she's not looking like a crazed maniac with her tounge hangin out!
Playing with her favorite toy- the Jolly Ball- yes it is flat. I don't know how she did it- but she likes it better that way!
The Flat Jolly Ball and it's favorite doggie- Marcella!
Looking rather bored in this picture "Mom Why are making me sit here?"
Yet another picture I can't figuire out how to flip in Blogger- I'm sure there's a way with HTML I'm just too lazy and my computer is just too slow!!

Enjoy Marcella the Marshmella and Vinnie the Beans (don't ask where he got that name- it's slowly evolved over time to just be The Bean)

Marcella is an ANGEL today! I love this girl... :) I have her back! So tomorrow we're going to get her recall pictures. I had a great time setting up the appt...
Today on the phone:

Me: Hi I need to make an appointment to get pictures taken.
Lady: Okay- when do you want to come?
Me: Tomorrow after 4:00pm
Lady: We have one availiable at 4:40, is that okay?
Me: Okay sounds great
Lady: Now who are we taking the pictures of?
Me: My Guide Dog and I think my mom wants me in some
Lady: What?
Me: My GUIDE DOG-
Lady: Oh Okay
Lady: And what is her name?
Me: Marcella
Lady: And How old is Marcella?
Me: A year... (odd question normally they don't ask)
Lady: Okay and is she your daughter?
Me: No! She's my GUIDE DOG
Lady: Oh we don't do pets
Me: No- really I've been doing this forever and I'm pretty sure it's okay.
Lady: Are you sure?
Me: Yes I'm sure- She's a service dog- we always come there for pictures
Lady: Okay- then I'll see ou tomorrow then...

People are Crazy :) Must go do laundry now...

Just curious... what is the worlds facination with "papered" dogs... This guy was asking me about raising puppies and he asked A) How much are they? and B) Are they papered? Whatever... He also wanted to know if they were purebred- then he told me about his papered and purebred Black Lab. Ugh. Looking at Marcie's jacket- I think it's time for a washing...

Alright... I switched to Blogger Beta-- just for you Amber... because I want to know why you want to know about Falina! :) Anyway...I've decided I'm a little spaztic... I think Marce is coming into heat at least once a week... It's been exactly 6 months and I'm really hoping she just waits until she goes back... probably not going to happen- because life is like that. She'll go in today while I'm in down town SLC with Lindsey and intact Carlise- or tonight while I'm at the retirement Party for Pantera (how cute is that!? I want Panteras person, Becky, to get one of MY dogs!). Anyway... That's my thought for the day... Oh and I don't like the whole- using your G-mail account to log in... I dont' even use my G-mail account! That stinks!

Here's what I have written about Marcella in her final report. I write in it regularly so i can remember and compare:

____________________________________________ 11 Weeks-10-18-05~ Marcella has been here for about 2 1/2 weeks. She is a sweet little girl with her own ideas. She is very smart and already knows sit, let's go, come, and her name- although we are still helping her and continue workig on them. She loves to "tell" us what she thinks of things such as the crate and tie-down but will fall asleep and snore loudly for hours. She loves to play, be pet (especially on her tummy), and just hang out. She especially lives new toys and will get bored with toys she's played wtih too much. As I said before she's such a smart, sweet puppy and will hopefully learn quickly to become a great Guide Dog. ___________________________________________________14 1/2 weeks: Marcella is a great puppy with lots of energy and spunk! She is a quick learner and is getting better all the time. Right now we are working on staying still for more that 10 minutes :) She loves to be up and walking/moving with me.________________________________________________________________4 Months- 11-23-05~ Marcella got her final shots today. Yay! No more carrying a 26 lb puppy around! She has improved so much cince I got her and hopefully will be soon able to join me at work. She made it through an hour of church last sunday- although she was wide awake the whole time- she sat quietly at my feet. She has become more responsive to corrections and is alot more responsive to praise. At first I was worries that she just didn't want to work for me- but she has proven me wrong. She has just today started to unerstand "down" and will do it to eat. Marcella really is turning out to be a wonderful dog.___________________________________________________5 Months- 12-25-06~ Marcella is turning out to be a great girl! She is getting her comands and is mellowing out. She loves to be near me and she loves to please. She is just starting to enjoy "come" again. (She "forgot" some for a couple of weeks :) Can't wait until she comes into heat and "forgets" things again.)I think she will be a wonderful dog as she gets older. She has been on a Halti for a ocuple of weeks and seems to do well. She corrects well but she needed too hard of corrections. I'm hoping this will doften her neck up for when she's bigger :) (Although I don't think she'll get much mroe that 45-50 lbs) She is really starting to do really well with my 3 year old and one year old brothers. They can climb all over her and no problems. I know Marcella has great potential. ____________________________________________________________-6 months 2/7/06~ Marcella is such a good girl. She has started on the FIR and loves getting food for something she already enjoys. Marcella does really well at work. She loves coming just to sleep under my desk. The people there LOVE her and enjoy having her around (she she enjoys the extra attention)She does well walking around the house but needs a draging as she will still "counter surf" every once in a while. Marcella is doing very well in her Halti and is very managable on her flat. Marcella has surprised me by how much she has learned and changed. She is a very loving sweet girl.
_________________________________________________________
almost 9 months 4/29/06Marcella came into heat in March and just recently came out. She did well but had a hard time staying home all day- she would much rather be out doing things. She is doing well and has been weaned off of her halti. She is great on her flat collar. She has very few issues (unless you count endless energy- she's ALWAYS ready to go!)She goes on a walk with me at least 3x a week that are at least an hour long- and is very good. She is not dog distracted- for that I am grateful.She is an itchy dog though- she was having problems with ear infections but not they are udner control with more frequent ear cleaning (about 2x a week) I really hope it is not allergies- she's a great dog and it would be so sad to waste that. Marcella weighed 56.5 lbs at her last weigh-in____________________________________________________________7/20/2006- 11 monthsMarcella has had quite a few adventures the last couple of months. First we moved back with my parents but we were only there for a couple of weeks before we headed off for housesitting at another raisers home for 2 1/2 weeks. She was good, for the most part and loved having 3 new dogs to hang out with. I was very impressed with how well she did. She then follwed me to another housesitting job- we've house sat there before so she is used to the routine. Towards the last day of that she started doing things that were very "Un-marcella-like" (Chewing things, jumping on counters, not listening) She went back on leash and is now just starting to be allowed on a dragling in the house (one room at a time- and not in the kitchen- she likes the garbage) and loose in my rom. She is a very smart firl and likes to see what she can get away with I've noticed that practicing obedience several times a day keeps her in check and reminds her who's in charge. :) She also got accompany me to graduation in Boring for my last dog. She was great in the car .Kind of antsy and pushy at the house we stayed at though. The next week was state Fun Day and after we put her on a training collar she did great! She also got to head to San Rafael for Fun Day. And she did SO WELL! She went to San Francisco and was great! I was very impressed. She has had problems again with ears but the GDB Vet thinks it's an infectin that never really went away. Hopefully that's it!Marcella has a great personality and lots of confidence.____________________________________________________8/7/06 One yearToday we worked on food Distractions because she has learned to sit under my 18 month old brother and wait for food. She I put her on a long leash and let her walk around. After one good corrections she gave up and started following me around. We will continue working on this and from her reaction today I think she will be over this soon!________________________________________________________________9/11/06One month to recall and Marcella can tell. She is due to go into season anytime now- it's always at the worst time. :) I know lots of people will miss her and are cheering for her to become a great Guide Dog. Her ears are doing great- she only has to have them cleaned 1-2x a week now and hardly ever bothers them. She still "scoots" on the ground (probably needs her anal glands expressed again) and flea bites/licks herself on her rear-end. (She isn't barbering though) but other than that she is doing great. I just changed her food so I'm hoping it will get rid of all the problems :) We are wishing her luck and crossing our fingers she will make a great Guide Dog!

Less than one month to go til recall... I hope they find me a puppy... I will miss my girl so much!
Off Topic: Scariness! Look what happened at work like, literally 2 minutes after I walked in!
http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=485728

Oh Amber: It is 4 months. Obviously they are *not* reading their puppy manual and their dog probably is fat- but she sure is cute :) Cessna's sisters name was Coral--- I think only one from her litter graduated :(
Marcella is going to graduate :) Right? She's being very good right now. She was absolutely perfect yesterday. I'm very impressed! (of course she did have a head collar on because I couldn't find her training collar and she was being whiney in history)
I really should be doing homework- but guess who doesn't want to... I want to chat on AIM and Yahoo Messengers- I'm terrible!

Wow... people are idiots... I'm at work and this guy tried emailing his professor via typing his URL (the professors website URL) into the "To" field. Then he thought it wouldn't let him log on-- because of the "10 parking tickets... I didn't think it had already been 21 days" LOL...
I decided I'm going to make a list of things I need to do before Marcella goes back:

• More Tie down time (she hardly gets any- because if she's not with me- she's in the crate)
• Not so many people petting her. She's always been so good at people petting her- but recently she's decided her toungue doesn't have to stay all the way in her mouth.
• of course she needs her recall pictures taken. Kiddie Kandids used to do them until people saw us and started bringing their PET dogs in then KK said no more GDB pups- now we do Target and they LOVE us. Everytime I go in they ask when we will be back with a new puppy.
• Work on "Come" It's her best command- until last month when she "forgot it" Even with the Food Induced Recall program- she'd rather see the food and I'm not going to lure her to me- she's too old to see it. Now it's back to the short leash- no more long leash.
• being perfect--- but just perfecting it of course :)
• going on a hike. I want to take Marce on a fun hike where she can go swimming.

Got to run-- this guy is mad because he doesn't want a Student ID card and is trying to pay me to print it for him... Idiot- people who think they can take advantage of me make me mad.

Last night I had the first realization that my girl is leaving me :(I'm surea lot of it had to do with that fact that I got home late from work last night and knew I had to get up at 5:30 am for work the next morning. I'm going to mis sher so much! I want her to stay- but I know she will be a great guide dog. I'm ready for GDB to get rid of her allergies! I hope the food change to Eukanuba does the trick because she will make such a great Guide Dog. It's been a rollercoaster ride. I'm like you today Erin- I wonder why I raise.

Why do we torture ourselves this way?

Oh BTW I'm not so worried about her at GDB anymore. When I went to take Angel back home I met the new Guide she got- a FBLXG named Gigi. She totally is Marcella! She even looks like her. She's so goofy and fun- but is a smart girl and a great little worker. I'm so glad I got to meet her- I think Marcella will do well. Watch for Marcella at GDB-SR in 4 more weeks...

Hi from Marcella on the floor of the computer lab :) Marcella had a long day yesterday. My grandma had a knee replacement last week and since my family was out of town, my cousin and I were in charge of helping her and my grandpa out. Anyway- I didn't realize I would be spending the night Sunday (thank goodness for my emergency bag for Marcella I keep in my car.) I had PJ's I had left in my car so I was okay- except I only had PJ's and I wasn't going to wear my dress I wore to church the next day too. So poor Marcella had to chill on tie down most of the day. (I wasn't going to walk around the neighborhood in my PJs LOL) She was a little whiney- and wouldn't go potty until like 1:00 pm (anohter reason she didn't get to go on a walk), but other than that she did okay. She doesn't really like my grandparents house because she knows she has to be on tie down and lay down the whole time- BUT she LOVES to go out on their deck and play. They have a deck that is fenced all the way around. Yesterday I drank the rest of the cranberry juice and her the hard bottle to play with. She LOVED it! After about an hour of romping and playing with it she did much better. Less whiney and more sleeping- of course it was her naptime :)
Anyone else have a place their dogs don't like to go?

Another day...full of work. It's been kind of busy today at the Computer Lab- but not too bad. I'm excited because today at my other job, Maceys (it's a grocery store- not the clothes store) we get to wear jeans and they are buys pizza for everyone. But Poor dogs are going to be at the house all day... tomorrow maybe I'll give them a nice long walk... If I can take 3 huge dogs.
Marcella hasn't shown me she's ready to back today. She's acting very immature and doing things she would never do. I think she's protesting the shortening of her puppyhood :) Although like Lomax and Liam- she is excited to pursue her degree with a major in Harness Science, but has already perfect the art and earned her certification in JollyBall Mechanics. I told her if she graduates I will bring her: HER Deflated Purple Jolly Ball with the rope that doesn't stay threaded through because she shakes it around so much and so hard... The funny thing is- she doesn't chew on it- she just carries it around ans shakes it. Whatever, Marcella! She'll love GDB and enjoy the new stimulation. With school started and everything- she thinks mom is BORING!
I want another puppy- BTW Amber, it's a MYL 6-ish month old sweetheart. I'm puppysitting him for a week in November- but hopefully he'll be mine by then. I'm such a bad person! I shouldn't plan things like this!!

Anyone who wants to send me their puppies- feel free... This is the 3rd time I've had to drop off a dog without a new puppy-- you'd think I'd be over it. Between Cessna and Maryjo there was almost 3 months! HOW DID I DO IT?! I hope they find me a transfer puppy-- and fast or I may go nut sfrom withdrawals~! Although it will be nice not having to worry that I'm gone too long and that the puppy needs to relive or eat.... But I'll be doing Lots of puppy sitting- until I get my own once again!

Feeling much better! Thanks guys! Marcella is happy I'm better too becuase then she gets out. So I decided I'm insane. Next week I'm working 26 hours at one job and 20 hours at the other- Do you think I will ever live? Plus school? Well at least my grant money came in so I'm set for 2 semesters! WAHOO!

Aww! Doesn't this picture make you want another puppy? It's Maryjo and Marcie on Oct 1 2005. It does me! But I can't bring a baby puppy to school. So I'm off to wait for a transfer. Our PRA said there isn't any right now- so I'm looking at possibly waiting. I'm kind of mean and hope this person in our club decides to transfer their puppy. This person has less time than I do and there have been past issues. No names to protect the innocent- but this person's puppy is SOOO cute and such a sweet dog! The dog will be the perfect age as well... Cross your fingers. Although it might be akward since this person does come to my work a little...Hopefully everything works out for the best.


I have to work both jobs today... hopefully I can sneak a nap in-between!

So last night I was sick. I haven't been sick in forever. SO I'm not working today because I was barfing all night... Poor Marcella was on tie down at my feet- good thing she loves me! I'm feeling better but still a little queasy. I watched the most random shows that are on that I never knew were still on... like Mama's Family on Pax. Anyway... Yes I want Marce to leave on this truck but at the same time I'm sooo sad! I feel like I haven't had her long enough. I don't know if there will be a baby puppy waiting for me- most likely- but I'd really like a transfer puppy if I can get one... cross your fingers they can find me a nice older transfer. 6 more weeks and counting...

Do you think the Flu is going around? I do NOT feel good.. I'm going to go home and barf... sorry for the graphic-ness...

It's Official. Marcella is on the October Recall back to GDB campus :( GDB decided to make one more truck run out to pick up dogs and Marce made the cut. All weekend I've been freaking out that she's not ready and that I don't have enough time. She will be my youngest one to go back... wait... Was born May 18 2000 and went back July 16 2001 so he was 2 days under 14 months... Marcella was born August 3rd 2005 and Recalled October 12 (ish) so... Vinnie was younger. I lied :~S I think the only thing she needs yto work on is jumping then she will be readys but she's been sooo sniffy lately and I KNOW I'm just nit picking but I swear everything she does I freak out that it will get her CC'ed. Although I know really the only thing that would CC her is allergies and she gets a food change in a couple of weeks. Maybe maybe maybe hopefully- Cross you fingers it works. :) She's been doing well so far off of the prednizone- but you never know. Now only about 6 more weeks... gosh that makes me want to cry. :( What's a good song for this?... BLUUUEEE blueeeee--- oh so lonesome for you... How old was I, 10, when that came out?

Marcella has now decided that work is boring. She has only been pet about a million times today from people that missed her last week! I have to remind her at least she's not home in the kennel... riiiight.

So my PRA called last night and because we have little kids we have to send Marcie away to another raisers house while she's in season- she also said to continue to socialize her until she starts bleeding- which she isn't that we have noticed... but puppy class is still off limits until she actually goes in- since Sylvester is still intact and starting to go through that "stage." So I need to email and find someone before she's really in season.
I'm such a loser! I'm playing online family feud at work because I'm soooo bored!
Marcella says Hi from work!

What bugs me:
-people (aka greasy computer nerds) in the computer lab that laugh out loud to their idiotic anime or nerdy internet movies ... GRR! He sounds like a muffled monkey, and he has food.. must to stop him from eating food in the lab...

Okay Back! So Marcella went into season this weekend. Well I'm still not positive but she's pretty swollen (raisers of girl dogs know what I mean.) and she's been a little spaz lately... So pretty sure if not this weekend it will be this week. She's due as well... so poor girl gets to live in the X-pen, the dog run, and the crate for the next 3 1/2 weeks.... I don't know if I can handle it, she's a pretty high energy dog and needs a long walk or a good run at least once a day-I'm already starting to see the effects of the cabin fever- Good thing she's got newly retired guide, Angel to comiserate with. Both have Cabin Fever. Vinnie could care less, he's a lazy guy anyway- and he's happy because he's the only ones allowed on the beds...

We call Vinnie lots of names-- Big Boy being one of them :) He was a stocky guy as a puppy and is now a chunky 82 lbs (should be about 70! Bad puppyraiser! We really have tried- it's those darn 3 and 1 year old brothers that think he needs a bite after every bite they eat!) He also is known as Twinkie because he's exactly the same color of one LOL.
Marce went into season today- poor girl has to stay inside and go stir-crazy for the next 3 weeks. Although she looks sooo cute with a diaper on. I'll have to take a picture and post it! She gets to miss the first week of school, and that week is going to be insane! I'm sure! Poor girl- it's crate and house behavior perfection time! Off to brave the next three weeks alone- without Marcella at my side... Poor gilr will be home in the crate :(

How do you guys get these cool templates and I get stuck with the Blogger ones? I want a cool/cute one!

This is Vinnie and Judith- my 1st and 2nd puppies- Vinnie is home with me and Judith is a Guide Dog in OR aren't they so super cute!? Judith was Vinnie's favorite!

Do you ever have one of those days? One of those days (or weeks) why you raise? Today is one of those days- or rather couple of days... I won't go into details- but I'm not feeling too good about the puppy raising scene right now... I think I need a pick me up. I'll go email my grads... and look at cute baby pictures of my Novak. Here's my beautiful boy at 10 weeks.
I think he's a handsome dog... I love those beautiful red goldens. I would love love love to raise another one. Even though I ask for a golden everytime I put an application in- I think I want to wait until I can keep it if it gets CC'ed. I want a pet Golden- or Mastiff, or Great Dane, or St. Bernard. LOL... Yeah But not all of them! I don't want to be the "dog lady" who people dont' like to come over because of the dogs and/or the dog smell. My poor future husband- asuming there is one that would live with me and my dog. Here's one more of my handsome boy:

5 Wierd Habits...

• Marcella likes to play tug with herself. It's so darn cute! She tosses her head and growls with a jolly ball in her mouth- How cute is that?
• Wierd? Marcella is being perfect today ;) LOL
• Marcella does the "jump and curl" if she's tired and doesn't think I will notice. She will be dead asleep and wake up, step up onto the couch and curl into a ball and fall asleep- Do dogs sleep walk?
• Even better- If I see her do it- she will stare at me and stay really still, hoping and praying I won't kick her off.
• Marcella is amazing! She started out being a bad spazoid, but now she's a great girl with a few wierd things- but for the most part she is so darn cute and good!
• Oh yeah-- She likes to pop balls for some reason- She's not allowed to be around balls if she's off leash- wierd dog!
  

Marcella sends lots of puppy kisses and tail waggs

So does anyone have any great ideas for Guide Dog Meetings?

We want to do fun stuff... that's different. We have done so many things over and over again! Good thing about tonight? We're getting updated pictures for our website!!! YAY!

Any ideas? Let me know I need them!

Marcia, Marcia, Marcia... That's what we call Marcella. I don't know why- but it fits her.

We've been watching a Retired Guide Dog Female White GSD, Angel, for a couple of weeks while her handler is at GDB getting a new Guide Dog. She's such a sweetie and Marcella and Vinnie are in heaven! She is 26" tall and about 80 lbs... where Marcella is about 21" tall and only 56 lbs... LOL! I think we need more GSD's and Goldens in Utah because most GDB pups are curious about the GSD and Goldens because we don't HAVE THEM here!! Grrr... Um. I'll take one! Yeah right... We're going to mention to Barb that Marcella should probably go back on this truck in October (the last one? I'm hoping there's a late Oct. truck) then I can get a new dog-- I kind of want a transfer puppy- but Traci wants me to start a puppy for her. I would like that too- but I like the transfer puppy idea better I think. I'm not a fan of waiting... and if I get a transfer dog I can send it back for training and then it will be sooner for graduation- if I do a starter pup- it will be a while- but that also means if I go on a mission I will be able to be back for his/her graduation... desicions!

Amber- how was your trip? How did Chris enjoy her time at GDB.

Erynn- Pretty sure we all have days like your Sundays. :)

So can I just tell you how much I love the people at my Lab Aide job? (No Offense Maceys- I love you guys too) But they are awesome here. All of them absolutley LOVE Marcella and spoil her rotten! She can hear the people that pet her and she sits up ready for a pet (she knows she can't be pet unless she sits) Marcella has a name tag that says "Marcella, Lab-rador Aide" (mine says "Mickelle, Lab Aide") Now if only I got paid more and got more hours I would be set :)- we all know THAT won't happen.
Marcella has been sick the past couple of days but is getting better- and was so happy to get rice and cottage cheese for dinner. She got a new bone for her birthday- which she LOVES (a nyla-dino bone- Her Stegosaurus was getting a little sad looking so she got the T-Rex) and she also got a collapsable crate from Target- which she isn't so much in Love with yet... :) I love it though. It's a little small- but good thing she's on the small side- it works for her. It's made out of that tent/nylon material and it was only $25! It folds down to about 12" round. I was pretty excited so I can take it with me when I end up spending the night at friends (..ahem...Lindsey...) and we have to decide who gets to sleep in the crate/tie-down/loose...Marcella is amazing. Now if only we can get rid of the whole allergies- or at least surpress them enough for her to be a Guide Dog we'll be set :)


Ooo- Not GDB related- Tuesday we adopted my new little brother, Aden, and today we are going to the Salt Lake temple to have him sealed to our family! In the Mormon religion we belive that families can be together for eternity once they are sealed in the temple, and because my parents were sealed when they were married, my other brothers and sister and I were born into this- but because both Philipp and Aden were adopted they get to be sealed after the adoption.

Here's my family the day we got sealed to my other brother we adopted, Philipp in the Salt Lake Temple! I think the Salt Lake Temple is my favorite!

I'm holding Philipp and my mom is holding Aden- aren't they so super cute? We love them!

So the other day I'm just eating Ice Cream in Kaysville with Traci (my friend and GDB co-leader) and a woman comes up to me and asks me "is this your first puppy?" now I love that question because then I can answer with "No- actually it's my 6th" Then they act all shocked... it's great! So I'm talking to her and she says "My Grandaughter works at that school in Boring." WHAT?! We have a GDB connection here in Utah besides puppyraisers and grads? Pretty impressive. Come to find out her grandaughter, Nicole, just finished her blindfold work and is now an instuctor- and they are from WA visiting family...I was just excited to get SOME GDB connections out here...I told her to ask her if she knew Maryjo and tell her that they met her puppy raiser and to look out for Marcella because she's next up. Oh Funny they talked about the dogs having a "lifestyle change" I was trying to figure out what she meant while trying not to laugh... She meant Career Change! ROFL!

Are there no other GDB Blogging raisers out there?

Isn't my puppy so darn CUTE?!


Today was a great training day. Puppyraisers- and any dog trainers out there- you know how you have those great dog training days where your dog just "gets it", and is very easy to correct, and is so excited by your praise? Well today was one of those days. Marcella has decided that the table is her own personal buffet recently- and when she does do this I do not have a leash on my hand to correct her (I know BAD PUPPYRAISER!) so today I put her on a long leash (I think it was about 15 feet long) like a good puppy raiser, put some of my brothers waffles he didn't eat for breakfast out on the table, and pretended to be busy with my laundry- Sure enough my smart girl decided to jump up as soon as she thought I wasn't watching-- BAM! THAT is when lightning struck. I corrected her off the table and threw her for a loop. She didn't even know what hit her. She ran right over to me "Mom! I was just minding my own business and something happened!" I told her what a good girl she was for coming over to me- because of course it's much more fun following mom around and being told what a Beautiful/Perfect/Good girl you are rather than wandering off on your own to be struck by lightning, Right?
Perfect timed correction+LOTS of fun praise= Perfect puppy. I love my girl!
I got some new Fun Day pictures today from Marcie's sister, Mojave... Here they are- Mojave is on the left and Marcella is on the right... Enjoy! :) They look so much alike I can't believe it (but of course Marcella is the cute one :) Hey I have to be biased in some way!)

Bored? Not so Bored? Check out my clubs website http://guidedogpups.netfirms.com and be bored no more!

Happy Birthday to Marcella!

Aww my baby's all grown up! Well Marcella turned one year old yesterday! It can only go down hill from here... I never thought it would come-- I remember when she was 8 weeks old and we wondered how we would EVER get through this puppy, she was my little wild one- but at about 6 or 7 months- she mellowed and is now the sweetest puppy ever! Marcella got a bath for her birthday yesterday (I know great present!) but I'm debating between getting her a new bone at puppy class next week (I was going to get a dino bone any way) or getting this collapsable mesh crate I saw at Target for $25. Has anyone used this before? I'm not sure on the brand or anything- but it says Large for dogs under 70 lbs... and she is definetely under 70 lbs (56 to be exact!). Is it somewhat of good quality?
Oh and we got a tentative list of Recalled dogs- and Marce isn't on it- I'm not so sure how I feel about that- I was kind of hoping she could go back so GDB could check out the allergy situation- instead of me wasting time at my vet, GDB's vet can have a look. Hopefully she's over them XXXXCrossing fingersXXXX and can go on to be a *great* guide dog :)

Have you ever noticed how there is no good fonts on this thing? But at least you can change the color right? It's TRUE!
Anyway... as a side note-***I am now back to normal... I was in a mood the other day and now I think I'm pretty much over it. :)***
Alright so back to the color green becuase it matches Marcella's Guide Dog Puppy Jacket :)
The other day I was feeding the 2 dogs and my little 1 1/2 year old brother comes in a decided he wanted to be a dog :) When I told the dogs to sit and stay- he plopped right down next to them. When I corrected Marcella for not waiting- he sat right back down- and when I told her "good girl!" for waiting- He grinned as if I was saying "Good Boy, Aden!" Sheesh- you'd think we were a dog family.
Philipp- my 3 year old brother thinks he's a dog trainer and walks around the house with poor Marcella or Vinnie in tow yelling "train, train, train"- then he tells everyone he's training them to be "Dide Gogs" I love little brothers- but only while they are cute, I think I have more than enough to go around with 5 of them. (Although I think I would much rather have 5 brothers then 5 sisters)

So here's Marcella (aka Dusty) she decided to roll in the dust outside while she was playing with her toys :) She came inside- COVERED in dust- thus the new name :)


How Cute is she? I love this dog! She is amazing!

We're watching a little 12 week old Male Yellow Lab named Bandit (a GDB pup as well) and she's so cute with him! She is very nice and gentle and plays so nice with him! I'm very impressed!

I think Marcella will be a great Guide Dog for someone who wants a fun dog with lots of spunk and personality- but at a moments notice can mellow out and be the sweetest most cuddly dog ever!

The other day at a church quilting activity everyone thought she looked sad- so after we were all done I let her loose in the Gym- she showed them what a happy dog she is! We played hide and seek and she got to show off a little her obedience and how much she wags her tail (or should I say her whole body?!) LOL

Can I just tell you how much I love this dog? And although I love her so much I kind of hope she leaves on the October Truck- I think it's because I'm excited to see how she does! Although I don't think she will leave then, there are way too many dogs older than her that need to leave- so I guess she gets to meet Christina! Christina is my friend who is on a church mission in Canada- she is "Aunt" to all of my puppies :)
Wow... now I'm babbling...
M*Dog

Warning: Not so Guide Dog realted- just out loud thinking...
So I'm sitting here with Marcella at my feet thinking- what to do with the rest of my life... There are waaay too many options out there and I want to find something I absolutely love now and will love in the future. Kind of scary isn't it? I know I would like to continue raising puppies, and want to keep up with the ASL, I want to be independently wealthy before I get married (lol- yeah my job now is working not so well to achieve that goal ;) ) , and I love working with people. Do I still want to do Music Therapy like I did in High School? I'll admit I have a lousy singing voice- okay not lousy but I don't sing solo in public unless I have to, but whatever. I've also thought about Dental Hygene (I know, wierd!) or even Special Ed (yeah THAT one will help my goal of being rich.)
AUGH! So sick of school.

Maryjo and Mickelle
(Aww! Seeing her puppyraiser for the first time in 8 months!)

Hi Everyone- Welcome to my Blog! I'm Mickelle and I'm currently raising a puppy as a Guide Dog for the Blind. She is a 11 month old Female Black Labrador named Marcella. She is my 6th puppy to raise and will hopefully make a great Guide and Companion for someone one day. Marcella goes everywhere with me- thus the name of Adventures of Future Guide Dogs. She has been on plenty of adventures with me and will hopefully be on many more as I will have her, most likely, until next Spring then off to a new adventure of Formal Guide Dog training in either San Rafael, CA or Boring, OR (yes that's the name)

The last couple of weeks have been very Guide Dog-y starting with lots of house and puppy sitting for raisers in my club then off to OR for Maryjo, my 5th puppy's graduation (She's now living the good life of a school counselor in TX) the next week was Utah State Fun Day, then California Fun Day... Whew! Marcella and I are glad to be home again for a couple of weeks, although she was very good and got to meet her sisters, Mojave and Mailie.Mojave, Marcella, and Mailie

We both work at the local University we attend in the Computer Lab. Marcella likes to sleep on the job- but that's okay for a Future Guide Dog- they need to learn to be patient and "chill out" while in a setting such as work, school, or church.
Hopefully Marcella will be good at reminding me to update this- she likes to tell her stories to everyone she meets and loves being the center of attention. :)