Good Shepherd Farm

Eternal Beauty

2010-05-08T13:56:00.000-07:00

This beautiful sparkly, glittery boulder has purple quartz inclusions, feldspar veins and lots of mica and pyrite. When the sun shines on it, it looks like a huge lump of silver.

Closeup showing the purple inclusions as well as some pink and green. I bought this boulder for my birthday at a wonderful place that sells rocks from pebble-size to truck-size. I think I looked at every single rock before I finally made up my mind to get this one. It's one of the best presents I've ever given myself.

"What nature delivers to us is never stale. Because what nature creates has eternity in it."

-Isaac Bashevis Singer

Seek out and enjoy nature's eternal beauty today. Peace.

Fragile Beauty

2010-05-05T05:40:00.000-07:00

The day after I took this photo, a heavy rainstorm swept through and I watched as all the petals fell like soft snowflakes to the ground.

Flowers . . . are a proud assertion that a ray of beauty outvalues all the utilities of the world."

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

May we all find a ray of beauty shining in our lives today. Peace.

Working Dogs

2010-05-03T06:06:00.000-07:00

Gracie faithfully patrols the property, including the trees, ever alert for dangerous 4-legged intruders, like squirrels.

Vida has started his own excavation company. His paws have been licensed as earthmovers and he will soon be available for hire.

Here he is inspecting a deep cave he dug into solid clay and tree roots. I think he is not totally satisfied with the results yet so he will continue excavating until he thinks it is perfect.

"If A equals success, then the formula is A equals X plus Y plus Z, with X being work, Y play, and Z keeping your mouth shut."

- Albert Einstein

Z is especially important if you have a career digging up dirt :) Peace.

Life Lesson: Patience

2010-04-24T19:17:00.000-07:00

Who could resist that loving patient expression? Vida always manages to get me off my computer to go for a walk by just this look

"With love and patience, nothing is impossible."

- Daisaku Ikeda

Praying for us all to embrace the twin virtues of love and patience to achieve our most heartfelt dreams. Peace.

Earth Day

2010-04-22T18:18:00.001-07:00

Spring peonies in my garden

"Those who dwell among the beauties and mysteries of the earth are never alone or weary of life."

- Rachel Carson

Happy be kind to Earth Day. Peace.

The Gate

2010-04-21T11:01:00.000-07:00

A beautiful gate at the local botanical garden

He or she who wants to do good knocks at the gate; he or she who loves finds the gate open."

- Rabindranath Tagore

I pray that love opens all gates for you today. Peace.

Passionate Purple Pots

2010-04-19T07:19:00.000-07:00

I risked trying some new combinations of glazes and this is the result

"When patterns are broken, new worlds emerge."

T. Kupferberg

Wishing you all the freedom to try a new approach today. Peace.

Love

2010-04-18T08:22:00.000-07:00

Hallie, a Rhodesian Ridgeback, poses happily with her loving family

"Love one another and you will be happy. It's as simple and difficult as that."

- M. Leunig

Sending thoughts of love to everyone. Peace.

Inner Child

2010-04-17T06:28:00.000-07:00

The flowering quince is just beginning to blossom in the garden

"April has put a spirit of youth in everything."

-William Shakespeare

Here's to enjoying life like a child today. Peace.

SMILE!

2010-04-16T07:21:00.000-07:00

A merry trio of my students on graduation day. They graduated with honors from Movie Star 101 - a class I developed and taught to prepare dogs to successfully audition for movie and advertising roles.

"Peace begins with a smile."

- Mother Teresa

What makes you smile? Peace.

Woodland Flower

2010-04-12T21:51:00.000-07:00

Tiny, bell-like flowers of the solomon seal blossom in the woodland garden

"The temple bell stops but I still hear the sound coming out of the flowers."

- Basho

I pray that we may all enjoy the music of nature today. Peace.

My Favorite Tree

2010-04-11T19:05:00.000-07:00

This magnificent old oak is the largest and healthiest oak tree on the farm. It is perfectly shaped and has never been hit by lightning. It is nestled in a valley near the swimming hole and I am in awe of it's stately presence whenever I come to visit it.

"And this, our life, exempt from public haunt, finds tongues in trees, books in the running brooks, sermons in stones, and good in everything."

- William Shakespeare

Hoping we can all appreciate nature's beauty and goodness today. Peace.

Spring Morning

2010-04-09T19:11:00.000-07:00

Tiny blue flowers march merrily across the lawn.

Sunny yellow forsythia cheerfully shouts "Good Morning!"

Weeping cherry blossoms open serenely in the soft spring air.

"An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day."

- Henry David Thoreau

Wishing everyone time for a rejuvenating walk today. Peace.

Friendship

2010-04-08T21:13:00.000-07:00

"Hold a true friend with both your hands."

- Nigerian proverb

Here's to appreciating the special friends in our lives. Peace.

The Color Purple

2010-04-06T22:17:00.000-07:00

Purple can boost the imagination and inspire creativity. It is the color of royalty and riches, magic and mystery.

"All the other colors are just colors, but purple seems to have a soul. Purple is not just a noun and an adjective but also a verb - when you look at it, it's looking back at you."

- Uniek Swain

Here's to enjoying something purple in our lives today. Peace.

TEAMWORK

2010-04-05T20:12:00.000-07:00

I do not know if Gracie and Max are demonstrating excellent teamwork by sticking together like glue or maybe they are just in love with each other.

"In union there is strength."

- Aesop

Love and peace to you all.

Rebirth

2010-04-03T06:30:00.000-07:00

"Our Lord has written the promise of the resurrection, not in books alone, but in every leaf in spring-time."

-Martin Luther

Wishing everyone the opportunity for a glorious do-over. Peace.

THINK PINK

2010-04-01T18:42:00.000-07:00

Pink is the universal color of love

According to Feng Shui, combining fuschia pink and green creates very fiery energy

Pink connotes happiness and nurturing.

"Almost all words have color and nothing is more pleasant than to utter a pink word and see someone's eyes light up and know it is a pink word for him or her, too."

-G. Taber

Here's hoping everyone feels the power of pink today. Peace.

A Lovely Surprise

2010-03-31T12:14:00.000-07:00

A gorgeous pot of flamboyant tulips was an unexpected and utterly delightful surprise. Thank you, Karen and Lindi.

"Bread feeds the body, indeed, but flowers feed also the soul."

-the Koran

Wishing everyone food for the soul today. Peace.

Perseverance

2010-03-30T07:38:00.000-07:00

"If we are facing in the right direction, all we have to do is keep on walking."

- Buddhist saying

Wishing you all the power of success, step by step. Peace.

Fun

2010-03-29T20:46:00.000-07:00

"It's never too late to have a happy childhood."

-Berke Breathed

Wishing everyone the grace and time to enjoy a bit of silly fun. Peace.

Success

2010-03-28T13:37:00.000-07:00

"Whether you think you can or think you can't - you are right."

- Henry Ford

You can do it! Peace.

Spring Greeting

2010-03-25T05:58:00.001-07:00

This arrangement of pussy willow, red dogwood, curly willow and forsythia cheerily greets everyone who visits the farm.

"The flowers of late winter and early spring occupy places in our hearts well out of proportion to their size."

- G. Wister

Wishing everyone a day filled with gentle pleasures. Peace.

Communication

2010-03-24T06:01:00.001-07:00

"An animal's eyes have the power to speak a great language."

- M. Buber

Wishing everyone the gift of clear vision. Peace.

Spring Beauty

2010-03-23T07:42:00.000-07:00

"Stand still and consider the wondrous works of God."

- Job 37:14

Peace.

Garden Angel

2010-03-21T07:15:00.000-07:00

"One single grateful thought raised to heaven is the most perfect prayer."

-G. E. Lessing

Peace.

Gone to the Dogs

2010-03-19T19:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Vida

Gracie on the run

What's Johnny Angel up to?

Gracie

"Our perfect companions never have fewer than four feet."

- Colette

Wishing everyone their own perfect companion. Peace.

Chow Wagon

2010-03-18T08:54:00.000-07:00

I finally finished building this covered chow wagon last night. My friends had the original idea and I modified and executed the actual product, mostly because I am the only builder of our bunch. It is for a contest at a local craft show. It will be filled with food and all entries (last year there were over 100 entries) will be donated to one of two very nice local charities after the contest.

"If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion."

- The Dalai Lama

Hoping everyone enjoys this win-win form of happiness today. Peace.

Spring Afternoon Break

2010-03-17T21:30:00.000-07:00

Chevy enjoying a watery retrieve

Gracie and Vida - splish splashing fun

The art of the tail

Pussy willows growing by the stream

Gracie shows perfect dog paddle form

"Spend the afternoon. You can't take it with you."

- A. Dillard

And so we did. Wishing everyone some fun in the sun today. Peace.

Garden Dreams

2010-03-17T05:38:00.000-07:00

This is a partial view of my new enclosed kitchen garden taken last summer. The shredded tire mulch, raised beds, and three-tiered fountain all serve to make it a dream come true. It was a huge amount of work to design and build it all by myself but this year my gardening work will be so much easier.

"Gardens are a form of autobiography."

- S. Eddison

What is being written in your life story today? I hope it makes you smile. Peace.

Spring Fever

2010-03-16T06:15:00.000-07:00

Homage to Spring - Fortissimo daffodils in my garden

"It's spring fever. That is what the name of it is. And when you've got it, you want - oh, you don't quite know what it is you do want, but it just fairly makes your heart ache, you want it so!"

- Mark Twain

I hope you feel the gentle warmth of the sun today. Peace.

Friends

2010-03-15T17:51:00.000-07:00

These two cuties are former students of mine and they are very, very close.

"Friendship is one mind in two bodies."

- Menclus

Whether of one mind or two, here's to appreciating the special friends in our lives. Peace.

Greenhouse Beauties

2010-03-14T12:08:00.000-07:00

Kalanchoe looking bright and sturdy on a rainy day

Fuschia geraniums have an inner glow even on an overcast day

I love the way the flower peeks out in the midst of the incredible chartreuse leaves

"God made rainy days so gardeners could get housework done."

-author unknown

Hmm, I guess I could do some housework or maybe I'll just curl up in a comfortable chair with a good book and a hot cup of tea and enjoy the quiet solitude. Peace.

A Passion For Pots

2010-03-13T14:36:00.000-08:00

These pots are the result of an experiment I did with some new glazes. The glaze colors are waxwing brown, Randy's red, goldenrod shino and red gold. I like the depth of color and the way the glazes interacted with each other. It is always a treat to open the kiln after the firing - like unwrapping a gift.

"Art is the only way to run away without leaving home."

- Twyla Tharp

Wishing everyone a joyful, creative spirit. Peace.

Spring Fling at the Swimming Hole

2010-03-12T10:31:00.000-08:00

Chevy and a favorite toy goes with her on every walk

Sphinx-like Vida

Gracie's first dive into the swimming hole

Chevy swims like an otter

Gracie and Chevy in a perfect pose

Vida is always ready for the money shot

Gracie has platypus lips!

Lucy and Gracie - two water-lovin' friends

"If you want to be happy, be."

- Leo Tolstoy

Be happy. Peace.

GREEN

2010-03-11T10:39:00.000-08:00

spearmint in the greenhouse

french sorrel is first to arrive in the raised beds

geraniums in the greenhouse

"Plants cry their gratitude for the sun in green joy."

- A. Alauda

The color green symbolizes nature, renewal, self-respect and well-being. Hoping everyone enjoys some green today. Peace.

Humility

2010-03-10T06:34:00.000-08:00

Lord, where we are wrong, make us willing to change;

where we are right, make us easy to live with."

- P. Marshall

Wishing everyone a virtuous life. Peace.

Forgiveness

2010-03-09T07:47:00.000-08:00

"The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong."

- Mahatma Gandhi

Be strong. Peace.

March Treasure

2010-03-08T21:29:00.000-08:00

Praying Mantis egg case

Lichen on branch

Morning's teardrop

Cat-tail reflection in the newly melted pond

More colorful lichens

"I believe that there is a subtle magnetism in Nature,

which, if we unconsciously yield to it, will direct us aright."

- Henry David Thoreau

Hoping everyone finds their own Nature's treasure today. Peace.

Here Comes The SUN!

2010-03-08T06:59:00.000-08:00

There is nothing like a sunny day after a long, gray winter to boost the spirit. Vida is enjoying the sun as he shamelessly poses for yet another photo. He loves the camera more than any other dog I've ever known.

"Little darling

The smiles returning to the faces

Little darling

It seems like years since it's been here

Here comes the sun, do do do do

Here comes the sun, and I say

It's all right"

song lyrics Here Comes the Sun - theBeatles

What song are you singing today? Wishing everyone happiness and the warmth of the sun . Peace.

Anticipating Spring

2010-03-05T21:32:00.001-08:00

"To See A World in a Grain of Sand

And a Heaven in a Wild Flower,

Hold Infinity in the palm of your hand

And Eternity in an hour."

- Wm. Blake, Auguries of Innocence

The sun is shining, the snow is melting and I didn't need to wear a jacket outdoors today so I am thinking Spring thoughts and celebrating the ultimate arrival of Spring.

Hoping everyone enjoys a favorite poem and the gentle warmth of the Sun today.

Peace.

Lucy and Gracie

2010-03-04T12:53:00.000-08:00

Lucy is a labradoodle who comes with her owner to walk the trails with us several times a week. Gracie adores Lucy but Lucy really can't be bothered by young Gracie and prefers to run and hunt in the prairies by herself. At best, she tolerates Gracie and that is it. Gracie, however, greets her with fresh enthusiasm every single time she meets her again. She lives in the moment, enjoys her company and accepts Lucy exactly as she is.

"To be wronged is nothing unless you remember it."

- Confucius

I wonder if Confucius learned any of his wisdom from his dogs. Of course, a wise man like him would have had some pets! May your memory only seek and hold the good close to your hearts today. Peace.

Very Strange Dog

2010-03-01T09:17:00.000-08:00

Have you ever seen an eight-legged dog before!? Well, now you have. It was one of those times when you see something and wish you had a camera, and, then, lo and behold, the camera is actually in your hands when you need it.

"Look at everything as though you were seeing it for the first time or the last time."

- Betty Smith

Here's hoping you find your own eight-legged dog today to make you smile. Peace.

GRACIE

2010-02-27T20:15:00.000-08:00

Gracie is 8 months old now. She is growing into such a well-behaved, thoughtful, friendly and intelligent girl. I could not ask for a prettier or smarter dog. My love for Gracie and for my other dogs is constant and grows stronger every day. It is not dependent on their good behavior but rather on their benign presence in my life. Dogs live in the moment and that is a life lesson for happiness. The past and the future are not important; it is only this very moment that counts. My dogs patiently remind me of this over and over daily - I guess sometimes I am a slow learner but I am getting better.

"Happiness is a form of courage."

- Holbrook Jackson

Wishing everyone courage to find your own happy moments. Peace.

A Tree-Climbing Dog

2010-02-26T11:58:00.000-08:00

It appears that Chevy is checking her tree-climbing spikes, making certain that each one is perfectly sharp and extended into gripping position.
Next, she gauges factors of wind direction and velocity, gravity, and the all-important motivating factor of just how many squirrels are up in that tree, anyways?
Holy Leaping Lizards, er, Dogs! Chevy has easily and successfully accomplished what no other dog on the farm can do (yet). What a girl!

"Action is the foundational key to all success."

- Pablo Picassso

Just do it! Happy Chinese New Year!

My New Puppy!

2009-08-14T21:06:00.001-07:00

Amazin' Gracie this week at 10 wks old

Gracie last week at 9 wks old.

I can already see changes in my little darling in just one week. She is everything I could ever want in a pup. Her full name is Alta-Tollhaus Amazing Grace - at least that is how I hope she will be registered by the breeder. More Gracie pix and cute stories soon!

Whoever said that money can't buy happiness never bought a puppy!

Greenhouse Gardening

2009-04-17T22:32:00.000-07:00

All the geraniums are huge and blossoming their hearts out. This geranium is one of my favorites. It is hot pink or fuschia with a flourescent orange in the center of each blossom. The greenhouse is attached to the house so I can delight in their beauty day or night. Today the temperature in the greenhouse was 94 degrees F!

Heirloom curly spearmint and Kentucky Colonel spearmint are flourishing in the warmth of the greenhouse. I add the leaves to salads for a great taste. After a long winter, just about anything that's green goes into delicious salads which I could eat for every meal.

"Earth laughs in flowers." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Wishing everyone love and lots of laughter today.

Friends Part 2

2009-04-16T11:43:00.000-07:00

"No fault " Luke exploring the frog nursery. Dogs are different than people. They can actually exist without any faults at all!

"If you are looking for a friend who has no faults,

you will have no friends."

Hasidic folk saying

I cherish all the unique things that make us different from each other, knowing that it is just these differences that define us as individuals. It makes for much more interesting relationships, I think. Wishing you all love and the joy to celebrate differences.

Friends

2009-04-15T10:21:00.000-07:00

Noble Vida is a perfect friend

"Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become really great." - Mark Twain

Wishing you all love and great friends to inspire and appreciate your own special greatness.

A Two Hour Spring Break

2009-04-13T20:25:00.000-07:00

Vida multi-tasking at the swimming hole. The water is deep

and the current is fast after the snow melt and a heavy rain.

He never tires of retrieving - the bigger the sticks, the better

For me, Spring has officially arrived when the red maple buds come out

Chevy takes her turn in the water. Chevy and Vida are both excellent swimmers.

They barely make a ripple as they paddle in the fast moving water.

Vida smiles for the camera while perching on a stump. He can always make me smile!

I swear that when he sees me with my camera, he strikes a pose intentionally.

"The sun - my almighty physician." - Thomas Jefferson

No matter how busy I am, if a warm, sunny afternoon presents itself ( rare so far this Spring) I will grab a few doggies, my camera and off we go to see what we can enjoy and discover on the farm. Mini-vacations like this are great for the soul as well as the body. Wishing you all love and a sunny day, and, of course, the time to enjoy it.

Farewell, Miami

2009-04-03T07:41:00.000-07:00

I happened to take this photo of Miami the day before she died. Her bright eyes sparkled with love and intelligence as we enjoyed what would turn out out to be her last walkabout on the farm.

This has been a sad week for me because my dear Miami died. Miami had a special gift that she was born with of being able to calm any dog she ever met. She ably assisted me countless times in rehabbing innumerable aggressive/fearful dogs for their owners. I always knew I could count on her to step up when asked and to instinctively do the exact correct behavior for the situation. So, we worked together as a team while the years went quickly by, until, this week, her good heart finally just wore out. "Mi ami " means my love in Spanish and she certainly was that to me and a whole lot more. Rest easy, my dear sweet girl, and, if such things are heavenly possible, please put your impeccable gentle spirit into my next shepherd puppy.

Spring Fling

2009-03-30T22:25:00.000-07:00

A favorite game for my darling Chevy is playing keepaway with her ball

My funny boy Jack seldom gets the ball from Chevy so here he is literally jumping for joy

Chevy combines the keepaway ball game with a refreshing splash in the pond

"All animals except man know that the principal business of life is to enjoy it." - Samuel Butler

Ah, the lessons that our furry friends can teach us. Wishing you all love and the gift of play and laughter.

Whimsical Universe

2009-03-29T17:56:00.000-07:00

"The universe is full of magical things, patiently waiting for our wits to grow sharper."

- Eden Phillpotts

This may look like a Christmas decoration but it's not. It is an elegant model of an imaginary universe. There is one golden sun but many moons, some planets and many kinds of stars. They all move and glitter and sparkle and catch the morning light and move it around the room. The universe is in front of the window where my computer sits so I can enjoy it's beauty whenever I look up from the monitor.

I never knew how spectacular outer space looked until I began subscribing to a podcast of the photos taken by the Spitzer telescope. Outer space is not dark with a few bright lights. Rather, it is a mind-boggling rainbow of colors and shapes that leaves me speechless and in awe. The Spitzer telescope rocks! Check it out!

Wishing you all love and a beautiful universe.

March Walkabout

2009-03-27T09:20:00.000-07:00

Vida playing prairie dog

Elemental landscape

Miami exploring the frog and peeper nursery

"I have always been delighted at the prospect of a new day,
a fresh try, one more start, with perhaps a bit of magic
waiting somewhere behind the morning."
J. B. Priestley

Not much color in the landscape yet but I totally appreciated the bright warming sun, especially how it sparkled on the water. The blue skies and big, white cumulus clouds were a lovely sight to behold. Happy days like this inspire me to breathe deeper, walk further and climb higher. Wishing you all inspiration, and, especially, love.

The Einstein Way of Life

2009-03-26T11:37:00.000-07:00

A garden miracle

A fuzzy miracle

"There are only two ways to live your life.
One is as though nothing is a miracle. The
other is as though everything is a miracle."

Albert Einstein

The world is filled with wonders. What's in your life today? My prayer: that we all receive the gift of clear vision so that we may see and cherish our own miracles. Peace and love to you all.

The Value of a Friend

2009-03-25T07:37:00.000-07:00

"One loyal friend is worth ten thousand relatives." - Euripides

Three loyal friends? Priceless! Our friends are such a treasure and a valuable resource in so many ways. Let a friend know just how much they are appreciated today. Sometimes the smallest gesture has the biggest and most lasting impact. Love and hugs to you all!

Forgiveness

2009-03-24T08:36:00.000-07:00

"When a emotional injury takes place, the body begins a process as natural as the healing of a physical wound. Let the process begin. Trust that nature will do the healing. Know that the pain will pass and, when it passes, you will be stronger, happier, more sensitive and aware."
- M. Colgrove, H. Bloomfield & P. McWilliams

Wishing everyone clear thinking, happy thoughts, and, most of all, love.

How To Train Your Human in One Kind Lesson - as revealed by Zen Master Vida

2009-03-22T13:36:00.000-07:00

Vida, Zen Master demonstrating "The all good things come to the dog who waits" yoga pose

This ancient and closely guarded secret is simple to learn but takes practice to master .

First, find a spot in the room where your human can see you in their line of sight. Not too close, though. You just want them to become gradually aware of your presence. Lie down, place head on one paw and direct your steady, unwavering, non-blinking gaze upon your human. Do not fall asleep or get too comfortable. The words "long-suffering" are key here. Don't be discouraged if they just quickly glance your way and return their attention to that big bright square they spent hours sitting in front of while moving their fingers back and forth over a small board.

Keep your position. You have the power! Soon, as though drawn by an irresistable force, your human will rise from their chair and walk toward you. Don't move! Wait until they crouch in front of you and look deeply into your all-knowing, wise and patient eyes.

You did it! They are now putty in your paws! Your newly aware human is ready to fulfil your heart's desire now. Do you want to go for a walk? A treat? Play tug? It's your choice - go for it!

As always, Namaste,

Vida, the Zen Master Dog of Patience

Looking Up

2009-03-20T20:00:00.000-07:00

"The sky is the daily bread of the eyes." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

No matter where our feet land, we can always look upward to a beautiful view. Wishing you all blue skies and bright, sunny days. God bless.

A Bouquet For the Soul

2009-03-19T10:44:00.000-07:00

"Flowers always make people better, happier, and more helpful; they are sunshine, food, and medicine to the soul."

- Luther Burbank

These are my three favorite colors of geraniums growing and blossoming right now in my greenhouse. Aren't they beautiful? They make my heart sing! I hope that everyone finds something to make your own hearts sing today.

Easter Eggs Not!

2009-03-18T10:28:00.000-07:00

"Every thought that is welcomed and recorded is a nest egg, by the side of which more will be laid. " - Henry David Thoreau

These beautiful multi-colored and delicately shaded eggs are 100 per cent natural, exactly as they came from the chickens who laid them. Aren't they gorgeous? I got them from my art teacher who raises her chickens with lots of love and room to roam on her lovely country property. Later this year I will be visiting her home as part of a special art class outing. I hope I can photograph and learn the different breeds of the chickens who make these incredible edible eggs.

High Times at Camp Swampy

2009-03-17T09:15:00.001-07:00

The mammoth gator Vida explodes in sudden fury from his watery lair and attempts to capture an unsuspecting deer at water's edge. Oh, too bad, the pesky photographer scared the deer away. GRRRRR!!!

While returning from a successful hunt with her prey clamped securely in her powerful jaws, Chevy becomes aware that some kind of large and menacing swamp creature is now stalking her. YIKES!!!!
Determined to keep her hard won meal at all costs, Chevy shifts into high gear and leaves the swamp creature in her wake. WHEW!!! That was a close call.

Textural Beauty

2009-03-15T22:41:00.000-07:00

Sometimes beauty can be found in the most unlikely of places, like an old abandoned silo or a scrap of rusty metal. What beautiful things do you see around you?

"Anyone who keeps the ability to see beauty never grows old."

- Franz Kafka

Benefits of Being Organized

2009-03-14T12:56:00.000-07:00

I am not an organized person by nature or inclination but I recognize the benefits of order and accessibility. This photo is of my hand tools and is a shining example of sublime organization at it's best. The bright colored yellow background and the strong magnetic holders make it easy to find any tool within seconds and to replace them just as quickly when done with them. Just looking at this wall of tools somehow calms me and makes me want to start a project! I am dedicating this year to expanding the beauty of organization into all areas of my life, bit by bit. Please wish me luck because it won't be easy!

"There is but one secret to success - never give up!"

- Ben Nighthorse Campbell

The Power of a Word

2009-03-12T09:22:00.000-07:00

"Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others." Cicero

"Kind words can be short and easy to speak but their echoes are truly endless." - Mother Teresa

"Hope sees the invisible, feels the intangible,, and achieves the impossible." - Anonymous

"If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours." Henry David Thoreau

"One word frees us of all the weight and pain of life: That word is love." - Sophocles

These are closeup photos of garden plaques that I made in pottery class. I plan to embellish them with beads, wire and other artifacts and hang them outdoors.

I enjoy scattering these one word plaques all over the farm because it is a nice way to take a mini-break and pause to consider their meaning to me whenever I happen to come upon one. I love the power of positive words - written, spoken, or dreamed - they shape our thoughts , feelings and actions and affect those around us.

Wishing you all especially good words and great thoughts today!

Love Comes In All Sizes

2009-03-11T20:50:00.000-07:00

"Whoever said money can't buy love never bought a puppy." - unknown

This is Buddy. He is a young chihuahua rescue that I am caring for for a few weeks while his owners travel. He has completely won my heart. There is something so special about a tiny dog - I guess they are like little babies because they bring out the maternal instinct big - time.

Proportionately speaking, the chihuahua has a bigger brain than any other breed of dog. Although he may look like a wind up toy, he is very intelligent and quick to learn. He is sitting on my lap right now as I am writing these words. I am used to my big guys laying at my feet when I'm on my computer so this is a pleasant novelty for me. I think all small dogs like to be cuddled and carried and Buddy is no exception. If he was my dog, I would change his name to Moon-Doggie - don't know why but it sounds right when I say it . Isn't he just a cutie - patootie?!

Clay Art

2009-03-10T13:32:00.000-07:00

The photo above represents a small part of what I created in my 8 week pottery class which ended this week. After being away from ceramics for ten years, I found a class nearby that fit my work schedule and enrolled. There are 2 teachers, both of whom are gifted potters , who each possess excellent teaching skills, my fellow students were interesting and motivated people and the facilities were well-equipped and spacious. All this together created a wonderful creative dynamic that combined aspects of both art and science. The next class starts in mid-April and I definitely plan to enroll.

Simple meals like tea and cereal take on a gourmet flavor when eaten from vessels that I've created myself. Finding something you like and doing it for the sheer fun of it is a treat that I highly recommend to everyone. Happy creating!

1.9 Inches of Rainfall Overnight

2009-03-09T11:18:00.000-07:00

The gentle, babbling brook about 3 weeks ago as seen from the bridge

"The Big Muddy"

The same view from the bridge today after the overnight rain

It is amazing to me that just 2 inches of rain has caused to creek to overflow its banks and increase the depth by over four feet. None of the dogs wanted to swim in it today, thank goodness! The current is so strong today that it could carry them away. I think the dogs are so smart that they sense the danger.

Natural Beauty

2009-03-08T09:35:00.000-07:00

A praying mantis egg case contains 100 to 200 eggs

Reflections in the newly thawed pond

The first gentle spring rain of the year

A symbiotic relationship between tree and lichen

"To see the world in a grain of sand, and to see heaven in a wild flower, hold infinity in the palm of your hands, and eternity in an hour." - William Blake

Winter Pinks and Greens

2009-03-06T12:39:00.000-08:00

A primrose blossoms in the greenhouse

Spearmint tastes so delicious - it's one of my favorite herbs

Winter parsley looks so delicate, almost ferny in it's growth

The contrast of vivid pink and rich green is striking in this favorite geranium

This gorgeous geranium grew so much that I can barely get past it to the other plants but I love the chartreuse and red leaves so much that I can't bear to trim it. In the spring, I may take some cuttings from it to start more plants for hanging baskets outdoors.

Last October I brought some geraniums, spearmint, parsley, and rosemary plants indoors to my small attached greenhouse from the gardens to, hopefully, stay alive until this May. Well, they have never stopped growing and blossoming and providing constant joy to my senses and lots of delicious herbs for the kitchen. This fall I plan on trying some hanging baskets of small cherry type tomatoes and some greenhouse cucumbers and some lettuces since my first modest experiment has turned out so well.

Through the Eyes of a Child

2009-03-05T19:32:00.000-08:00

My very cute Lucky Lukie

"The pursuit of truth and beauty is an activity in which we are permitted to remain children all our lives." - Albert Einstein

This is another fellow that I would want at my dinner party. So far, I have 2 guests of honor: Albert Einstein and William Shakespeare. I think they would complement each other and, hopefully, enjoy each other's company. This is a party for twelve including myself so only room for 9 more guests. I am not even going to think about the menu until my guest list is complete.

Today my featured dog friend is Lukie. Another pet psychic story - when Lukie was small, he asked the psychic if he was staying with me?? I had not told the psychic that I was only training him and raising him until he was 5 months old and then he would be leaving to live with a friend of mine in Canada. When I told this to the psychic, she said that he planned on misbehaving badly if he had to leave me and that he was happy right where he was. Now the funny thing is, is that after this visit, he remained healthy but stopped growing. He was very small for his age and his soon to be new owner wanted a big male Bouvier, not a mini - Bouv.

When it came time for Lukie to leave, the owner came to the farm and said that he did not want him because he was so very small so he returned to Canada without a dog. I swear that on that day Lukie began to grow rapidly until he reached a normal Bouvier size. I am convinced that he stopped growing because he knew it was the only way he could stay with us forever. Once the danger of leaving was not imminent, he went back to the business of growing up. I have been breeding and training Bouvs for over 30 years and never witnessed anything like this before. Personally, I would have loved him to stay a mini-Bouv because he was so cuddly and cute but he is still cute just bigger. So that is Lukie's story - how smart is he? If you ask me, then I will say he is very scary smart!

A March Welcome

2009-03-02T08:07:00.000-08:00

Dahlia and Duke smooching in the tulips

The doorway to my training building

I've been so gratefully busy earning my living that I had no creative energy left to post. Now I'm able to catch my breath and find that I actually missed not writing on my little blog. I think that it is a good sign that I may be beginning a habit. This month I am going to put together a kite that I've had for too many years and never flown. Something about March and kites that goes together. I am looking forward to getting it airborne and photographing it.

Chevy, Vida and myself were scheduled to march in a peaceful demonstration against the local university's practice of using live shelter animals for horrible, painful practice instead of simulations which 90% of the schools use nowadays. They received 19,000 protesting e-mails in one month and decided to stop using animals so the demonstration was canceled. Yea!! I am sorry for all the animals who could not be saved, though.

Since I am eager for Spring, I am posting some flower pix I took last year.

Power of Positive Thinking

2009-02-25T07:20:00.000-08:00

Johnny Angel says hello. He is such a good boy!

Today is a great day! Why? Simply because I believe it to be. The dogs are healthy, I am healthy and happy, God's in her heaven and all is right with the world. For today I choose to focus on what good things are happening to and around me. The sun is shining and the ground sparkles like diamonds in the snow. I send my prayers and good thoughts to anyone in the world who needs a hug today. Good luck and God bless you always!

A New Day

2009-02-22T10:05:00.000-08:00

A few years ago, this babbling brook was lovely but very quiet. I built a bridge with a bench on it so I could sit there and meditate. I hauled in five or six truckloads of rocks and boulders and created a series of waterfalls. By carefully changing the placement of the rocks, I was able to fine tune the sound to my satisfaction. It was a true labor of love that is now enjoyed by all who see or hear it. Sometimes it's hard to believe that I did all that because it looks so natural now. I guess that I am Mother Nature's helper, tweaking things just a little here and there!

"You wake up in the morning, and your purse is magically filled with twenty-four hours of unmanufactured tissue of the universe of your life! It is yours. It is the most precious of possessions. No one can take it from you. And no one receives either more or less than you receive."

- Thomas Arnold Bennett

I love this way of thinking about each day and wanted to share it.

Snowflakes

2009-02-21T17:49:00.000-08:00

Three snowflakes. I wonder how many there are in one shovelful of snow? Trillions? Gazillions?

Snow fell all day resulting in an accumulation of about 4 inches. Very beautiful and peaceful.

I read a study recently about a Japanese researcher who found that water exposed to kind words, when froze, created extraordinary beautiful crystals. Conversely, if water was exposed to hateful words, it created disfigured asymetrical crystals. This happened whether the words were written, thought or spoken. We, as individuals, have so much power to affect and effect everything around us, by our thoughts alone. Try thinking good thoughts the next time you sip your water. You will make some water molecules very happy!!

Snowstorm Predicted

2009-02-20T17:20:00.000-08:00

The shepherds and Bouviers hunting for field mice ? in the prairie. The second photo is Jack, the youngest at 1 year old, of the family. I like the way his ear tips have kind of a strawberry blonde thing going on.

A 5 to 8 inch snowstorm is predicted for tomorrow during the day. Right now the ground is bare and frozen so what might be the last storm of the season will be a welcome sight for me. All the dogs love the snow. They especially like to roll around in it - are they making snow dog angels? After teaching in the morning, I plan to come home and stay put, so let it snow!

A Good Old Girl

2009-02-19T11:14:00.000-08:00

Miami is still an active member of the Polar Bear Club . Here she is climbing out of our frigid stream after taking a quick dip.

Miami is now the oldest dog of the family. She is thirteen years plus and still enjoys her life here on Good Shepherd Farm. Her muzzle is grayer and she may walk a bit slower but her eyes still sparkle and she has a joy of life apparent in her desire to be in on every activity. I treasure every day that she is with me. Life is fragile and transient but Miami makes me remember to take advantage of every opportunity for fun and adventure when it presents itself. I think I just talked myself into a dog walk so bye bye for now. Have some fun today!

Life Lessons Learned From My Dog Vida

2009-02-18T09:24:00.000-08:00

Recently my friend Deb posted a beautiful quotation on her blog (livewithgratitude.blogspot.com). I especially liked the last line because it reminded me of how my very big and yet very gentle German Shepherd Vida lives his daily life. Here it is:

"Be too big for worry and too noble for anger." - Christian Larson

Vida has such a calm and focused attitude that nothing ever irritates him. I believe we all can learn so much from our beloved animals. I know that I have.

Spring Green

2009-02-17T06:45:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I saw the first harbingers of Spring - garlic mustard and wild onion. Too bad the deer and rabbits won't eat these invasive plants. They could enjoy a tasty salad and I would have finally found a way to bring them under control, if not eradicate them.

Self -Discipline and Good Byes

2009-02-15T06:02:00.000-08:00

My two old friends - Miami on the left and Portia on the right

What is this elusive thing called self - discipline and how is it developed? I suspect, like any other trait, it's done in small, consistent baby steps. Posting a blog every day takes a lot of effort and dedication . I'm back and will soldier on.

This past week was a hard one for me. I had to say goodby to my Portia. She was thirteen years old and a sweet, loyal friend to me her entire life. For a German Shepherd, this is a long life but the years went by in the blink of an eye. It seems like she was a tiny dark ball of fluff that I could hold in my hand only just yesterday. She was a free, independent spirit who often liked to go off on her own to explore the surrounding areas. Not a good thing! I even took her to a pet psychic once in an attempt to get insight into her behavior. She told the psychic that I worried too much and that she wasn't running away, she just wanted to do a bit of exploring on her own. She said that she would always return when she was done. Ha! That was not good enough for me so I eventually fenced in my entire 100 acres of property. She taught me patience, compromise, and, then, more patience. You are now free to roam to your heart's content, my dear sweet friend. I miss you, good girl.

Spring Fling

2009-02-08T21:14:00.000-08:00

Today we walked back to the swimming hole to see how high the water was from the melting snow. It was surprisingly low - not what I expected to see. Vida thought it was just fine for a quick swim. He is one tough doggie!

The sun felt warm, and with no wind, the day definitely held the promise of Spring.

A Real Picasso

2009-02-03T15:16:00.000-08:00

"I would like to live like a poor man with lots of money."

- Pablo Picasso

Simple Things

2009-02-01T19:20:00.000-08:00

"A kind word can warm three winter months." - Japanese proverb

Something New

2009-01-30T20:38:00.000-08:00

Very big, handsome and smart Vida learned to walk on a narrow teeter-totter by me using the clicker and shaping and rewarding every small effort.

I'm teaching a new class in March. It's called Tricks 'n Clicks. It will be one hour per week for 7 weeks. I have to design and write the course syllabus and training manual. I've been telling my current students that if they have ever wondered how dogs are trained to open a refrigerator door, take out a can of beer, close the door, and carry the beer to their owner, then this class will provide the answers. There are so many cute behaviors that can be taught like sneezing and having your dog bring a kleenex to you, dogs pushing shopping carts, playing a piano, turning lights on or off in the house, besides the usual paw tricks or the bang! you're dead trick. It's all based on operant conditioning using a clicker to mark behaviors and rewarding those behaviors. It's a lot of work to design the course but it is so much fun to watch owners and their dogs enjoying and learning something new that it is worth the effort. I hope enough students sign up for the class so it can run. I've got so many ideas that the difficult part is deciding what can fit in 7 weeks. Any cute tricks that your own dogs do that you want to share?

Talking To Ghosts

2009-01-29T19:53:00.000-08:00

This is my cutie pie Chevy dressed in her Monsters, Inc. costume for Halloween. Sorry I do not have any pictures of her in a ghost costume. She puts up with so much silliness from her mom.

I just watched a movie "Ghost Town" starring the comic actor Ricky Gervais. Because of an accident, a very nasty, unlikable dentist becomes able to see and communicate with ghosts in NYC. He, of course, wants nothing to do with them or their stories. The ghosts tell him they have unfinished business that must be concluded before they can go to the light. I won't tell any more of the movie but I will say that I thought it was a good rental and brought a few tears to my eyes as well as some good laughs.

Would the ability to communicate with the dead be a blessing or a curse? If you could help someone to find closure would it be worth the headaches and stress? I am not the least bit psychic but I like to believe that there are people who have this gift. Living a regular life seems complicated enough for me and I don't think my heart could take the shock, so I am glad that the only people I see are living, not ghosts.

Ready For Spring

2009-01-28T10:56:00.000-08:00

Someplace buried way under all the snowy landscape is the promise of Spring. I felt like looking at last year's photos taken in May to give myself a mid-winter boost. Aren't the colors gorgeous and doesn't my little Lukie look adorable nestled amongst the dandelions on the lawn? I can almost smell the tulip's sweet fragrance.

Simple Winter Beauty

2009-01-27T10:12:00.001-08:00

The sun shining on a bitterly cold day totally uplifts my spirits. Although we have had record cold and snow, the sun has shone almost every day and there have been almost no windy days, either.

Dentists - A Love/Hate/Fear Relationship

2009-01-25T09:52:00.000-08:00

This is St. Fiacre. He is the patron saint of gardeners. I wish I knew who the patron saint of dentists was. I would make a shrine for that saint, too.

I'm thinking about dentists today because I have an abscessed tooth - maybe. I woke up in lots of pain on Saturday and phoned my dentist. His wife phoned me back and said he or she would get back to me. A few hours later, I checked my voice mail and got a message from the wife saying that her husband was very angry at me and that I could go to another dentist if I wished or wait until Monday to contact their office to see if they could fit me in. She also said that this is what happens when you don't come in on a regular basis. My dentist may not have great people skills but he has done thousands of dollars of excellent work on my teeth. The area I live in is blest with an overabundance of other excellent dentists but I have such a hatred of all dentists or should I say fear that it doesn't really matter who I go to because, to me, they are all the same. Needles, drills, hands in the mouth, poking, probing, causing pain to lessen pain - YUCK!! My current dentist can not comprehend that it takes me a year to get over the horror of sitting in the dental chair. To me, it is like some kind of medieval torture.

I will phone the office tomorrow to try to schedule an appointment and pray that peace and love fill my heart and likewise for everyone in that office. My prayers for anyone else in the same situation as me.

Mid-Winter Ennui

2009-01-22T11:53:00.000-08:00

I've never observed a dog having a slump anytime or anywhere. Gotta figure out their secret!

Argh! Methinks I am trapped in a mid-winter slump. Lots of longstanding projects to complete but very little ambition. Well, I guess it's time to remember baby steps. I am going to exercise today. Although not terribly excited about it, I will do it and find something to enjoy about it. Sending positive thoughts to anyone else experiencing their own mid-winter slump.

Blessing in Disguise

2009-01-21T07:44:00.000-08:00

The beauty of simplicity

The economy downturn has got me thinking and practicing frugality. Now this is a very good thing but, to be honest, not something that ever took priority in my life before. My main focus has shifted dramatically from spending sprees to thinking of ways to decrease expenditures. Feeling calmer is a happy benefit to this new lifestyle I have embraced. "Stuff" is no longer going to be filling my home - I am aiming for a more austere, less cluttered life, both in mind and surroundings.

Cozy Reading Corner

2009-01-20T21:27:00.000-08:00

It's minus 14 degrees F outdoors and reading and sipping a cup of delicious hot tea is the perfect winter activity.

Shakespeare for Dinner

2009-01-19T12:02:00.000-08:00

My Lovely Portia

The quality of mercy is not strain'd,

It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven

Upon the place beneath. It is twice blest:

It blesseth him that gives and him that takes.

The merchant of Venice Act 4, scene1 - Shakespeare

I like Shakespeare so much that I named one of my dogs Portia after my favorite female character in The Merchant of Venice. If I could, I would like to invite Shakespeare to a lovely dinner party. I hope he would come and dazzle us all with his genius personality.

Making Changes

2009-01-18T11:59:00.000-08:00

Constant dripping hollows out a stone. - Lucretius

Whenever I feel overwhelmed by too much to do, I am going to think of dear Lucretius and just do it by consisitent baby steps. Meditation is also something I am beginning this new year. I believe it will lead to a quieter, more focused and happy mindset. I have been a happy vegan for one year now so that resolution became fruitful. I've read that it takes 30 days to make or break a habit but, for me, more like 6 months before I think it will really stick.

Never, ever, ever, ever, ever give up! - Winston Churchill

Winter Fun

2009-01-17T10:24:00.000-08:00

Although it is -10 F, the doggies still enjoy themselves when we go outdoors. Watching them play makes me smile and feel a little bit warmer. Everything is not as it seems. Can you spot what I mean?

Feeling Contented

2009-01-15T09:57:00.000-08:00

"Fortify yourself with contentment, for this is an impregnable fortress." - Epictetus

Dreaming of Tomatoes

2009-01-12T12:37:00.000-08:00

It's bitter cold and snowy but I'm already planning and ordering plants for my gardens this summer. I will be growing all my vegetables in large pots again this year. Last year was the first time for this experiment and it worked out beautifully. The photos show some of the variety of plants that did well in pots for me and also some raised beds that I built and will be using for the first time this year.

Actor Mickey Rourke accepted a Golden Globe award last night for best actor. He has been messed up on drugs and washed up as an actor for many years prior to this . In his acceptance speech, he thanked his dogs, past and present, for always being there and loving him when he had nothing and was all alone. It was a very touching and humble moment. Anyone who loves animals can relate to this, I'm sure.

I just got my first comment on my new blog from a nice person in Spain. Hola and gracias!

Winter Flowers

2009-01-11T21:47:00.000-08:00

I love geraniums, especially in the winter. Their bright colors never fail to lift my spirits on dark, cold winter days. It is worth every penny I spend on extra heat to keep these beauties alive until they can be moved outdoors for the summer.

2009-01-10T11:35:00.000-08:00

This is a snowy shrine to St. Francis of Asissi, outside the barn. He is the patron saint of animals. I enjoy religious symbolism and try to represent many different religions here on Good Shepherd Farm.

Day 2 as a blogger newbie. It's snowing outside, peaceful and quiet, and indoors , cozy and warm. Lots of chores to do, where to start? I'm feeling very lazy and sleepy, but after a hot cup of chai tea with unsweetened soy milk, I'll be ready to shovel more snow.

2009-01-09T22:09:00.000-08:00

Greetings from Margot,

My friend Deb C. talked me into making my own blog back in November of last year. Well, a few months later, I have finally decided to post my first entry. I feel a bit uncomfortable writing because I am such a private person but I wanted to try something new in 2009 and stretch myself a bit. I have learned so much from reading other blogs regarding many of my interests that I think it will be fun to take a more active part in the blogging community. I'm not certain how or if anyone will ever read these blogs but I'll give it a try. I am going to post a few photos of my farm and my beloved poochies. Hope this works! Wow, downloading these pix was easy. Hopefully, I will think of some more interesting topics tomorrow.