Cardis Live Here

Wystan,Luna, the group- updates...

2012-02-16T14:06:00.003-08:00

This is Betsy and Wystan on 'Going Home" day. Thankfully his ears were only in that tape for a week and he never had to do that again.

Here is Luna enjoying the big bed. She is SO awesome. I LOVE this dog! I am so glad I got her back and was able to give her what she needed and so glad I was able to figure out how to fix what was so misunderstood about her. So attentive to me, David, and goes crazy over Hannah. She loves attention herself too, oh, and loves the cats..a little too much...there is only so much licking a cat can take!

Sharing the bed with her best bud, Fig. They adore each other. Actually this is a rare moment of quiet! They are usually frapping non stop...I have to tell them to chill so I can hear things, talk etc..

Group siesta. There were actually two more dogs not in the photo.

Me and Peeker posing at Tractor Suppy Co. in front of a "Quiet Time' bed with Peeker's photo on the tag. I do not like this picture of me but it's all about my grand ole gal,Peeker. She'll be 11 this year. The dog bed tag photo was when she was 5. She got to chase a tennis ball up and down the isle a lot...the ladies that work there were in love with her....hopfully she'll get into the TSC employee newsletter and I'll get a copy.

Wystan (Twizzler)

2012-01-06T10:33:00.001-08:00

Heidi came today to visit the Rush X Nibbs Puppy (8 weeksold). He is one gorgeous puppy. Heidi took photos with her phone, so here are a variety of shots.

He is so interested in the chickens. He is fearless about everthing!

...And so darn cute!

Merry CHRISTmas!

2011-12-24T20:38:00.000-08:00

This is a wonderful Christmas message I received from my neighbors, Karen and Brendan,who, I now consider family.
***

Though December 25^th isn’t the exact time of the birth of our Lord and Savior, it is still important that we set aside a time of the year to remember him.

Without the birth of Jesus our race would be dead, but because “God so loved the world,” (us) He sent His dearest son to buy back life for us. Jesus is the King of Life.

Jesus says; “To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice. “ (John 18:37)

If the casting away of them (the Jews) has brought us opportunity, and if the receiving of them (the Jews) back into favor again is life from the dead (Rom. 11:15) how much more has the King of the Jews brought us. When the entire world of mankind receives Jesus as their King in the Kingdom we all pray for, “Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done on the earth…”

Jesus’ birth into the world and his ransom sacrifice for Father Adam are truly the best gift this world has ever gotten. As the Apostle Paul says, it will be testified in due time.

So when you think of Christmas, thank God that He gave His dearest son to be the hope of the entire world.

just plain perplexing

2011-12-18T19:00:00.000-08:00

New computer finally!!-no long distance phone calling and no e-mail - the old one died and I had been unable to communicate for a week!

I suppose I should write a journal on the horrific year I've had. But then, I don't really want to remember. I will tell you the latest but don't want to dwell on it for any length of time. I am a forward type of person. I don't recall dates of sadness and cry. It is behind me and I look forward. I do give reverence to the past as appropriate but it is what it is and I try to see what I have, not what I have lost or suffered.

I had to put the one blue boy pup to sleep. He was suffering. I had taken him to the vet with the other pup and showed him questioning what was wrong with him. An x-ray reveiled an abnormality but it was out of my vets ability to answer so he sent me home waiting for more information from a referral vet that he was going to talk with...but it never got that far for poor Skimo.

I must be in for something good, since I have had FIVE bad things occur that I have never had in breeding Cardigans before, all in ONE litter.

good report

2011-11-25T17:26:00.000-08:00

I took the pups into the vet today. I had him listen to their heart and lungs. They are 15 days old today,fat and vigorous. He gave them a clean report saying there wasn't anything there and they seemed like very healthy puppies. I almost started to cry I was so relieved. I would not allow myself or Hannah to become attached. So, now I can enjoy them fully!

pup in a dish

2011-11-22T20:30:00.000-08:00

LOL! I fed Nibbles in the box, went back in to check and this is what I found. I burst out laughing.

That is just TOO cute! The look on Nibbles face is " what?!"

Relief!

2011-11-18T20:54:00.000-08:00

I believe we are over the hump. 4th day on antibiotics, which I have to tube feed to them. They hate it and hate me because they know what is coming. The one who was pretty bad is especially mad about it. I'm sure the tube feeding makes breathing more difficult. Not only does the tube cause some breathing blockage when it is in place, it also fill up the tummy and a full tummy also make it difficult to breath. I put warmed up supplement in with the cold liquid antibiotic. It is also hard to nurse when you can't breath. You can tell by looking at them which was the one with the worst case of pneumonia.

I will now tell a little more of the details regarding the scary (after hours- it's ALWAYS after hours!) c-section. My vet was out of town, my second choice vet was out of town and I could either go to another local vet or one of the two big city emergency clinics. Both Huntsville and Birmingham emergency clinics would be about an hour and a half trip. I chose the 'other' local vet. I had met this other vet before and really don't like him. He is terribly gruff and egocentic! But, I swallowed my pride and dealt. I insisted on an IV line since I was concerned about the size of her belly and the size of her normal body. She is regularly only a 27 pound bitch and she weighed 45.5 going in to the c-section. I did not want her going into shock and/or cardiac arrest. Well, you can probably see that poor Nibbles has shaved areas all over! He never was able to get one single vein! Gee, I was so stressed watching and listening to him not getting it over and over...poor Nibbs...he even did a "cut down" on BOTH sides of her neck! The reason was obvious after she was opened up...her body was already getting shocky...twisted uterine horn and a tear...and a water puppy (Anascara) which was about 2 1/2 times the size of a normal pup. This was a first for me. So was the pneumonia in pups. I'm sure it did not help that this vet clinic is poorly prepared...they didn't even have oxygen when I asked to put the pups on it...so no, they didn't have bulp syringes to suck out nasal mucous...I have 2 at home. But sure didn't think about possibly needing them!

Look at poor Nibbles HUGE scar(and it has already shrunk with healing). Over the last 20 years, I got accustomed to very small scars and a MUCH different c-section team of experienced people. I figured being in a small town in the country would mean a different class of vets and less professional care than I have been accustomed. I feel that the vet I had the planned c-section with and trust is one of the best around and he would have done a MUCH better job at the whole emergency c-section. Certainly he has the oxygen. He genuinely is a good and caring person who graduated from one of the best vet schools (Auburn), and seems to be quite intelligent, in control and takes what he does seriously.

He is the one that has been caring for my pups with the pneumonia.

OK- well, I shared a lot. I guess I felt it would be helpful and informative.

OH, and I removed the dew claws today- finally, on day 8...I was too stressed and I felt that they did not need any more physical stress before now. It went very smoothly.

Again, dog breeding is not for the faint of heart!

sad report/strength

2011-11-17T14:33:00.000-08:00

First I want to thank all of you! Your support has given me strength. Sadly I lost both girls yesterday.

I can't tell you how much peace God has given me and how much strength I have gained in this. Something like this is always painful but I have to examine my place in life...where my heart is...ask God questions, talk to Him ...and in the end remember that HE knows what I am going through and He knows all that goes on...so, God's plan will over rule...I cannot change what is...I can only do everything I know how to do for the puppies and accept what happens. And realize I am to praise God in my trials because it is in my trials where I am strengthened.

Now, other info has come into play as well. I let the vet do an autopsy, he requested doing so. He found an abnormality, he believes genetic. So, I have other information to consider, which is actually helpful in the big picture.

Maybe the boys will be ok, maybe not. Dog breeding is not for the faint of heart!!! It's not the first disaster I've had in breeding and if I stay in long enough, it won't be the last.

pneumonia

2011-11-15T20:30:00.000-08:00

Unfortunetly all 4 pups have pneumonia. It has been a very long 4 days. The one I fell in love with immediately is, of course, the one who is doing the worst. She was at the vet all day on oxygen but as soon as she was off the oxygen declined. I'm not expecting her to make it and feel pretty down. Life has dealt me difficult blows over and over this whole year!
Prayers Welcome!

Also~ Please know that I appreciate all of you. I try and try to post responses to you but it will not go through.

Thankful/Nibbles Puppies

2011-11-11T12:05:00.000-08:00

This is a centerpiece I put together. It is my ceramic turkey platter, gourds given to me by a neighbor, a 'Thanks' carved plaque from Beall's store, a vase given as a moving away gift and 3 plant decor pieces from various places. This is the first year I will not have a turkey dinner for my family. David and Samuel will be in FL. Hannah and I will share a turkey thanksgiving meal with a group of family 'misfits' at a neighbor's home.

And now for the story about our litter. It has been a year and 2 months since I've had any puppies born. Poor Nibbles was extremely uncomfortable and I was worried...turns out righlty so...emergency c-section last night...I had a planned c-section set up(sigh)...all in all it is a very good ending. I have Nibbles and 4 puppies. We had a twisted uterine horn and a tear...Nibbles is now spayed and we lost 3 puppies. There was NO movement in any pup when they were brought out of the horns...so we are so very fortunate to have these 4. All blues, 2 male, 2 female.

They all look nice and healthy. No mismarks in any from the whole litter. Here are the first photos before they are even 24 hours old.

Belly and Ear status

2011-10-29T06:51:00.000-07:00

Fig has tape on the back of 1 ear. I took the taped towel rolls off yesterday (about the third set) to give them a break and see what they are doing. They still need to be put up again since they are slowly sagging ..but we are getting there. He is 16 weeks.

Nibbles loves tummy rubs any time. She is funny, she'll follow me around and when I stop she plops over. So always easy to get pics of the belly-pregnant or not, this is what she does.

side view too? no problem, I'll wait.

Due about Nov. 18

truck wrecked

2011-10-12T16:44:00.000-07:00

This is what is left of my 2001 2500 Dodge Ram. A driver was going too fast for conditions, lost control and slammed into us. Hannah and I are ok. I got the worst of it. It will be a few days for sure until I can function both mentally and physically better. I am really sore and taking pain meds. I got x-rays and a CT scan because of my back and neck pain. My left knee is not good either but nothing broken. Praise God!!

Maybe this will work

2011-10-10T11:53:00.000-07:00

OK, maybe THIS ear taping design will work.

Fig isn't happy no matter what way I tape. His ears are difficult to keep tape adhered to on the inside. Maybe extra oil? Anyway, wish us the best!

Imagine!

2011-09-22T18:36:00.000-07:00

I am glad to have a new cardigan related post with photos to share. The story leading up to this very special addition to my household of cardis is long, emotional, extremely trying and a time of personal challenge and growth. This season allowed me to begin a very special and unique friendship with a lovely woman who has a huge heart.

So, without further adieu, I announce to you, from Nancy Andrist of Galena Cardigans, my gorgeous, DM clear, TRI boy from Nugget X Kate....'Galena Cornerstone Imagine'.

He is everything I could imagine in what I was wanting.

We named him 'FIG' (short for Figment)

Figment=something merely imagined

I look forward and 'Imagine' only the best in his life.

Thank you Nancy.

My Mom

2011-09-04T21:27:00.000-07:00

I don't want to go to bed. I am here all by myself and all I want to do is think about my Mom. She passed away tonight. I was making plans to go to be with her but at 8:45 my time, she passed. I am blessed to have had my Mother. I will always cherish the things she taught me. Most of all I will will cherish her example of strength. Strength that she got from God. She battled cancer for a long time and had a positive attitude right to the end.
My wise husband said that the moment she entered Heaven she wondered why she hung on to this life!

Carol Jean Chivers gone to be with the Lord 9/4/11 at the age of 76.

My next post will be all Cardi related- promise.

Cardi spa Birthday!

2011-08-13T07:38:00.000-07:00

Close up of Luna in the pool. Notice the chewed pool edge..yea, Luna has a thing for plastic! Hose sprayer handles, a hose and anything else she can get into! Gotta watch her but she is a puppy still..... Her 1st birthday is today! Happy birthday to her brothers and sister: Byron, Morgan, Paco and Alice!! You are the last puppies I have had at Cornerstone.

Luna and her Mom, Nibbles. Ah, ya think Luna came by her chewing plastic honestly? Nibbles learned/outgrew the inappropriate chewing, so should Luna.

Peeker (age 10 1/2) in the pool with Luna. Her Dad, Nickolas, supervising.

So, a family celebration. I hope the rest of the litter has a great Birthday too!

Summer on the farm/rescued pup

2011-07-30T10:26:00.000-07:00

Morning glories grow wild all around up here on Sand Mountain. I've been encouraging the ones at the fence line. Just lovely!

First bloom! Pam says they were not planted in the proper sun area, but we are getting some that have the best sun starting to bloom. We'll have to move them later and hope for a good transition for next year.

FIGS! Sorry for the blur but I want to show how big they are this year. That is a quarter in front for size comaparison.

Just some of the Cardis playing around. DeeDee the oldest one looks to be playing the most in this scene.

This is a rescue puppy with her new owner and a friend! We found Dobbie in a bakery parking lot 2 weeks ago. She was thin, wormie and alone. I figured her age to be 8 weeks then. Of course I took care of de-worming her, giving her a vaccine and high quality food. With Pam's help I made up a flyer complete with an adorable photo and posted them at various places. The lady holding her saw it at a pet shop in Guntersville, called and said, I have to have her! So, happy ending for Dobbie.

First egg! First Blackberry Pie!

2011-07-17T22:14:00.000-07:00

We have our first chicken egg! And I made my first blackberry pie from blackberries I picked on our farm. David and I had a slice after dinner-yum! Yes David is here for a long visit. We go to pick up Samuel in Hunstville today (I'm posting after midnight). So we'll be together for a few days until they all drive together and go back to Kissimmee. Hannah will fly back after a short visit there.

Pretty soon I hope to be able to announce a real and final retirement for David.

I hope you are all enjoying your summer!

Hunt Club Green & chickens

2011-07-06T14:03:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to show how much my chickens are growing up. They are only 5 months old. I did send 3 Roosters to the neighbor which is good. I have one nice rooster and 7 hens. Just right.

The dogs are good with them now. This is Peeker, she never was a problem with the chickens. I do have 2 cardis that are so intent on herding them...high drive...so I can't leave them with the chickens or they'd never be able to relax and just be chickens. They'd be in a group all the time and not allowed to get away.

Here are my newly painted shutters!! I LOVE how they look now. This is 'Hunt Club" green. They were an off white and to me they just looked blah. Now I think the new color looks classy. Here are 3 views.

Happy Summer!

Visitors and yard time

2011-07-02T15:11:00.000-07:00

We had visitors to see our cardis today! This young man wanted to pose with some of our guys. Pretty sweet. I think they liked it! First is Rio...

Next is Bubbles...

Then came Lily...

After our visitors left we went out and played. Here is Peeker cooling off.

Luna was trying very hard to get someone to join her in frizbee chewing...

oh, come on!

Luna and her Mom, Nibbles. It was too hot to stay out long.

You all have a great Independence Day weekend!

New pics- Luna and Zsa

2011-06-19T21:03:00.000-07:00

2 year old Zsa Zsa. I bathed 3 of my guys today and asked Hannah to help me photograph these two. I need some for the web site too, so these wil be a start. I also have a lovely professionally done head shot of Zsa for the web site. Thanks to Pat Sawtelle.

9 month old Luna

Luna being her cute self.

cat places

2011-06-19T08:17:00.000-07:00

All cat owners know that recycle boxes must be throughly inspected and enjoyed first.

Our neighbors Karen and Brendan gave us this cat tree. Karen wanted to know if they are using it. I should try to get a photo of them scratching on the posts and lying on top as well. Yes, very grateful to have this cat tree. The one we had, got used up and trashed before the move.

trained older pups

2011-06-14T11:26:00.000-07:00

My good friend Pam Brand of Glasdawn Cardigans in NE Missouri has two black and white 6 month old puppies available, Ace and Aretha. Both Pet. I happen to be co-breeder and would like to help her find them their forever homes. Thanks! You can see the pups here on Pam's web site:

http://www.glasdawncardis.com/index.html

Lily and Luna

2011-06-11T10:03:00.000-07:00

"Heeellllooo" Two of the sweetest Cardis ever! (well aren't they all of course!)

Lily on the left and Luna on the right.

Luna relaxing and waiting for Zsa to get to come out and play. They love each other and seem to be best wrestle buds. OK, just thought I'd share a glimpse into a moment here. It's been toooo hot to do much in the middle of the day.

Horses, hay and are you coming?

2011-05-28T19:24:00.000-07:00

This is Floyd Gibbons riding a Paso Fino Stallion at an obsticle challenge competition I went to. *Notice he is bitless* It was the day I met Floyd along with other horse people in the area. Floyd is an exceptional and well known horse trainer. He currently works for Chalakee Ranch in Gutersville AL. He also does private lessons and I hired him. So far two training sessions and Scooby here is a much more respecting horse.

Scooby saying "I'm a better boy now"

We unfortunetly did NOT get much Hay yield for our first cut(can you say "huge loss?") It was promised to my cow owner neighbors, Karen and Brendan Getchel. Here is Brendan picking up and moving one at a time to his place.

Here is my 9 month old puppy. She is from Nick and Nibbs. If you are thinking that I did not keep any from that breeding, you are right. But it was meant for us to be together. She just didn't fit and I got her back which I am very happy about. I always loved this puppy. She is saying "Well, are you coming?"

"Look! My buddy, Rio, is out there!"

"Uh, I'm waiting..."

you can't sneak up on Corgis

2011-04-26T11:35:00.000-07:00

They were all laying peacefully and I tried to sneak up and get a shot but you can't sneak up on Corgis!

Once they knew it was me Nick decided he had to go find a toy.

The wind was really blowing and a small branch fell. Nick looked but held onto his prize.

I am grateful to the home owners before us who planted so many lovely flowers. These are the 3rd color of Iris blooming in our yard. We have a lace purple, white and now these two tone purple and white.

Another thing I find so wonderful while experiencing our first Spring here is the constant turn over of beautiful natural flowers(weeds). These clover look as if they were planted right along the front walk. I didn't mow them when I cut the rest of the yard...too pretty.

Bizarre mushroom under roses

2011-04-20T09:20:00.000-07:00

Here is the scene as I was weeding the rose bush area. When I got to the very last section of weeds to pull out,I saw something unusual...

One of the most bizarre mushrooms I've ever seen. It had a partial coating of a gray slime... it is gone today. There sure are many amazing things in this world.

chicken yard and things in the yard

2011-04-15T12:39:00.000-07:00

Chicken yard. My old dog kennel plus two old wire crate panels, some green coated chicken wire, an old pump house and voila!

Here is one of the Light Brahma hens about 7 weeks old.

And one of the Silver laced Wyandotte hens. She will continue to lighten and the tips of the feathers will be trimmed in black.

Bubbles saying "hey"

Lovely Iris

Iris and roses

These were scenes from yesterday and this morning before it rained. Tommorrow is Best of breed at the National and the Banquet. I will be thinking of all who are traveling and wishing them a safe return home.

way to go bro

2011-04-15T07:36:00.000-07:00

Lily, my new tri girl,Congratulates her brother on his 2011 National wins. Oz, Arylan's Mint Proof was Best Op Sweeps and WD! WooHoo.

Some photos of Nick and Nibbs

2011-04-10T15:15:00.000-07:00

Here are Nick and Nibbs. Bathed,Blown and Bodacious (had to come up with something clever to go with bathed and blown!)

Nick is : Cornerstone's No Intro Needed

Nibbs is: Cornerstone's Biscotti Bits

Thank you to my friend Michele Wells for helping me with photos! Wish I had thought to get one of us together-duh!

Michele had a business meeting in AL. and after that came to spend part of the weekend with me. She'll be heading to the National later this week.

Thinking best wishes for all who get to be there this year!!

I guess bathing, blowing and practicing is something the rest of us can do while at home and part of the OHMAN (Others home missing another National) support group.

Jersey calf and I helped

2011-03-24T17:15:00.000-07:00

This is my neighbor's cow, Yo,and her heifer baby born this morning. I went over to pick something up and thought I was going to see her baby already born. Instead I helped her be born! When I got there since she wasn't born yet and found out only one hoof was presented, I knew something needed to be done. I actually had to go in and pull it's front leg and foot forward...that was hard! Not a lot of room in there and it took a lot of force...then I pulled with contractions and she came easy. I've done things like that with dogs...but never livestock...glad it is a girl too! That way I will get to see her for many years to come at Karen and Brendans! Oh, a pure bred Jersey : )) my favorite breed... I went back over later and she was cold so helped Karen dry her more, put a jacket on her and get her up and walk to Momma for some first milk/colostrum. What an exciting start to my day!

outdoor views

2011-03-20T15:28:00.000-07:00

Some new blooms in the front yard...

I put patio blocks under my 3 gates. There were 15 blocks at the old house and David brought up 6 last time. So, I quickly found a proper place. It was a pain to get them in place. The ground has rocks and roots and the fence posts have cement which I had to hack away at with the shovel. The space between the gates is barely enough for the two blocks to be side by side besides having to make the ground level and the gate being in the way a bit...I loved the work but wish my hands could handle it better.

Lily chilling for a few a seconds after getting a drink.

A partial view of the side yard. Its about a half acre...I'm thinking agility space...
Rio is faster!

Lily doesn't care she loves Rio and loves life!

Can we go again?

Good-bye Belle

2011-03-16T19:31:00.000-07:00

Belly Boo. This is a photo of her in her name sake position. I hope that you get forever belly rubs over the rainbow bridge 8/19/1996-3/16/2011 I feel numb. That is her in the photo above on the right.

Rock Garden

2011-03-16T08:31:00.000-07:00

I love rock gardens and have always wanted 'my own'. This house came with one and I changed it...a lot. I brought my rocks that I have moved with me twice now...but it has been 20 years since the last move. I added to what was here and really didn't do much with the arrangement. The rocks themselves are beautiful and like everything else in Gods world, we just need to stop and appreciate the beauty. (click on the photo to enlarge)

Nick- part mountain goat?

2011-03-07T10:49:00.000-08:00

This is what I saw out my kitchen window-yikes! Nick is definitely my chair dog. He loves to get up in lawn chairs and hang out. He seemed quite proud of himself and seemed like he was happy I saw that he was up there. This was taken through the screen.

Then I went outside the porch to try and get another but he got excited with the others running over toward me. And yes, he lept off! Of course I gasped! He was just fine and actually launched himself enough that he did not dive onto his front. He almost landed with all 4 at once. Need to move the chairs!

new farm members

2011-03-07T07:03:00.000-08:00

I want to have chickens on the farm but I was going to wait...then I saw an ad on Craig's list and made a spur of the moment decision. The poultry farmer had the breeds I wanted at only a dollar a chick...so, here they are: I asked for 6 silver laced Wyandottes and 4 Light Brahmas and the farmer gave me an extra one of each...I have 12 chicks!

Spring activities

2011-03-02T17:56:00.000-08:00

Before I get to the Spring things, here is one of the photos I wanted to find of sweet Shimmer earlier.

And this one of Shimmer and Belle with one of our cats, Shade. CUTE huh? Belle is 14 1/2 and will likely be next to leave us.

OK SPRING photo! Daffodil close up along our driveway. We have tons. I gave two neighbors huge bouquets and cut one for us as well.

Shade watching me open the front door.

This is a sealant around the chimmney before it was painted. I came up on the roof to get a good look.

...and while I was up here I took a photo in each direction. The field and trees behind the horses all the way in the background, is our property. The inner dog yard is right off the porch. Pretty neat view of the back of the place. The other direction beyond the barn and fence shows our neighbors front yard and long driveway.

Here is my new grooming room! We closed in the alcove with 2 windows and door. Inside we have a raised floor, dog washer, dog tub and room for a grooming table and dryer.

Dogs in the yard with handsome Nick in the forefront.

This is a huge mound of debris I raked and gathered from the dog yard. It amazed me how many small bits of yard stuff there was made up of acorns, pieces of sticks, wood and leaves and such. The dogs ran along as I took a trip down the hay field to the woods entrance and I dumped it in a low wet spot. Sure glad to have my lawn tractor running again. I did that yesterday. The weather has been so wonderful!! The dogs sure do like being out and about getting to explore and be with with me. I spent most of the last two days enjoying being outside doing things with a 'Merry Heart'!

Remembering Shimmer

2011-02-23T07:12:00.000-08:00

Don't we all dread these days where we have lost one of our pack...I had to help Shimmer cross over yesterday morning, she was no longer able to function due to kidney failure. I buried her outside my daughter's window. She really was Hannah's dog. Shimmer always lit up when she saw Hannah. They grew up together. Hannah could do anything with Shimmer. When Hannah was little she would put a leash on her and hang it on a door knob while she laid out a blanket on the living room floor. Shimmer would watch and wait patiently. When Hannah was ready she would bring her over and the two would lay on the blanket to watch TV or whatever.

I could not find one of the 2 pictures I was wanting to post but Amy has written and posted a lovely tribute to Shimmer on her Crazy Cardiness blog with a nice photo.

Shimmer was one of those regal Cardis. Never caused anyone any problem. I finished her as my first Bred-By champion. She was so easy to show because she never wanted to be told she was doing anything incorrectly...she just did right.

Her Mom was ROSY ROMS (CH.Maranatha Cornerstone Rosy)

Her dad was STORMY ROMG (CH.Tarfrnwr Coedwig Blackstorm)

Shimmer had 3 litters and her biggest contribution to Cardigans is DREAMER ROMS

And her proud claim to fame is her brother DC BELI <grin>

This is Shimmer with her second litter. They are actually all black but some have the reddish hue and the photo color quality is off.

Sleep sweet Shimmer and now you and Rosy can play again.

Finally here-Lot of photos

2010-12-26T17:38:00.000-08:00

Shimmer with her new home made jacket. Megan Stevens, a special friend, and owner of two Cornerstone Cardis, is very talented. She created the design herself and gave me one for each of the old gals to use in the new colder climate. And boy have they come in handy!

This is Megan(left) and Sheila. Sheila graciously allowed us a half way stop over at her place. We were able to walk, graze and water the horses Walk the dogs. And get ourselves pottied and water too. Megan arranged the contact and of course God had it all planned.

Megan and David with Annie and Scoobie.

When we arrived it was late. I put all 9 dogs in the laundry room and they are wondering..."hey, what's going on here?"

The first morning out at the new place. It is cold compared to what they are used to. I put a turn out blanket on Scoobie since he has less coat than Annie.

The coat came off and all seems like adjustment is pretty easy.

Holiday table in the new house!

Woo hoo, new place lots of fun!

Samuel and Hannah on our way out to hike to the creek,

Stopped to take a shot of our horse trailer. Now done with its big job for the move, we covered it to protect from the weather. As it turned out, it was none too soon!

Hannah at the creek with her walking stick.

Samuel behind us and still up on the rise above the creek.

Samuel looking down the creek.

Christmas morning! Samuel's prayers were answered! He had never seen or experienced snow and really wanted to on Christmas. Right on target at 7 am it started and by 7:30 it was coming down. Snowman on the hood of my truck : )

First time in snow for them too!

Out the front door. This was only the first half or third of what we got.

Hannah was quick to get the tree out and at least have it up without ornaments so we could enjoy that much.

This is the first sunset living in our new house. It is taken from the back yard looking out over the hay field

David looking into the barn while I was mucking stalls. He and Samuel left to go back to FL. this morning. they will come to visit for Spring break. I will sure miss them. David thinks he will be able to commit to retirement about March,,,maybe April...maybe May. Pray for me and Hannah up here without him. We do have SUPER neighbors though who we can count on if needed.

That was a good bunch of catching up! I hope you enjoyed it!

Giving Thanks

2010-11-25T07:38:00.000-08:00

Hello to everyone! Today is always a special day of the year for me. I know that I am so very blessed and am especially glad to have a day set aside where the whole country pauses to give thanks. There are many less fortunate today and we need to remember them, and to give help when and where possible.
I am thankful for our loving, caring and merciful God. He shows me over and over how he cares for me and has all under control. I am grateful for his correction of my imperfections and molding of me to be a better person.
One of the things I am most thankful for are the people God has put in my life. My family and my friends...you are wonderful !!!!! If you are someone that I've never actually met but we have a connection, to me you are a friend. I know there are many who read each other's words, who care when any of us are in trouble or sad or in need. So to all of you- you are my friends and I am blessed to have you.
I know I'm not an eloquent writer and I suppose I'm feeling mushy at the moment, but I just felt the need to tell you. I hope you are blessed too. Blessings always go both directions. With a warm heart, Rita

Part of the herd relaxing

2010-11-08T07:03:00.000-08:00

This was a scene in the yard the other day. Typical, enjoyable. Cardis love to be where you are. I haven't posted in a while and thought I'd better keep up. I will have more soon. Scooby is coming here to Kissimmee on Nov. 19. Much is happening quckly with only 6 week left before the move. Crazy time to move-eh!? Holidays and cold weather. I know God has it all in His care though.

One left and new addition

2010-10-21T07:40:00.000-07:00

It's has been an eventful week! Puppies had the Vet health check and certificates on Tuesday at 8AM and that day two of the pups went home to thier very eager families. Ponyo Alice left first to Ana in Tampa and a short while later Paco left with Bruno and Toya for Miami. Then I shipped Scoop to Erin in VA. on Weds., this morning I shipped Morgan to Pitts. PA. and he'll live in WV. with the Peters. Bryron will go home tomorrow with Katie and Steve to Tampa.
The paper work is incredible and I am an organized person. It is important to me to have everything in order well in advance. There are the AKC forms, AKC litter record, the micro chip numbers,micro chip forms,stickers,tags etc... , contracts, shipping air bills, health certifictes and copies etc etc etc....
After sending Scoop off I planned to keep busy. I did not want to think about her being gone. We adore each other and I just didn't want to let myself cry. Scoop is the one I wanted to keep. I made the decision to let Erin have her because it was the best thing for both of them. With moving and the dogs I have and the dog situations that I know are coming up, I could not give her what she deserves. So, David and I took a trip to look at a horse for sale! That sure was a good thing and kept my mind occupied.
We've been looking, then putting it on the back burner then looking again. David wanted an 'in your pocket' type horse. that would be one that is personable and interactive and maybe a bit of a pest. He prefered a striking paint, younger than 9 years and at least 15 hands tall. Also, since David is not an skilled rider, he needs a safe horse. A horse is huge commitment, we plan to keep the horse we get for it's life.
Well, we found a gem! Or I should say that God did and lead us there at the right time, for the right horse at the right price! Meet Scooby! He's 6 years old and comes from an awesome lady who trained him and wanted a home like ours for him. Scooby needs some muscle conditioning which I will be able to work on with him.

Toys n sticks n running oh boy!

2010-10-16T17:17:00.000-07:00

I'm still getting the hang of this blogging. It's been busy lately. We've taken a trip up to our Alabama home since I last posted and much more...

Running!

Paco running...

Scoop pausing with a rock.

Paco resting.

Byron with a toy...his favorite thing to do...

Byron with toy...

Sticks!

Ponyo (Alice)

Sticks again

Paco

We're eating, did you want something?

Dad, Nicholas with his typical silly face.

Family time/brag

2010-09-26T17:12:00.000-07:00

Last night I let adults and pups interact and play together on the kennel room floor. It was such a sweet peaceful sceen. the darker photo shows the parents of this litter, Nick and Nibbles. Nick is so cute with puppies. He's very gentle and really likes them.
My BRAG is that Nick was WD/BOW/BOB! today. He went over 2 specials and there were 3 class dogs yet it was only 2 points. The judge was Robert Thomas who I'd not shown to before. This was Nick's first point show week end. Yesterday he got reserve out of 4 dogs...I'm saying he needed yesterday to warm up : ) I will post the photo when it come if it's a good one.

Fun under the stump

2010-09-24T08:39:00.000-07:00

Every evening after the pups have dinner, we get to explore. Last night I let them 'find' the stump with a 'den'. It was so fun to watch them figure it out and realize that "this is cool!" They dug in the sand, chewed on the stump, made the hole bigger for an exit out the other side, ran in and out, found stuf to carry in Etc...Ponyo went in and just stayed. She really just seemed to be happy that she found a neat new place. First thing she did was stick her nose deep into the cool sand...wish I managed to get that pic.

Ponyo and Scoop

2010-09-20T10:20:00.001-07:00

puppy pen and visitors

2010-09-20T10:18:00.000-07:00

This weekend we had visits from 2 of the families getting a puppy. Plus, our dear friend Amy Hill was here. Amy parks her car here when she needs to fly out of the Orlando airport. It's nice I can offer that and we can chat on the way up and back. She usually has a bit of time to stay a 'talk dogs' and see pups/dogs which generates more dog talk.

The new families were a delight to have and get to know and of course 5 week old puppies are just the cutest! I wish I had taken pics of pups and people but they did and shared. I always take a picture on the puppy day home. Enjoy a couple I did take of pups in the outdoor pen.

FYI-new http

2010-09-17T08:19:00.000-07:00

I mis spelled cornerstone in my original address and it is taken..so is corner-stone...so it is now cornerstonecwc.blogspot.com but wow! I figured it out on my own! That might not seem like much to most people but technical stuff is not my thing...

Our Alabama house

2010-09-17T07:04:00.000-07:00

Short Creek-low water

2010-09-17T07:00:00.000-07:00

Belle at 14

2010-09-17T06:55:00.000-07:00

Just do it!

2010-09-16T12:00:00.000-07:00

Hello - where you are reading this (my blog!) today is a first for me. I decided to "just do it" and start my own. Pretty big for a computer illiterate. I will try to get some photos of current things here.
I realized that my Cardi family is a major portion of older dogs. Belle is 14 years and doing great. Shimmer is 12 1/2 and I just discovered she has high BUN level so is on a reduced protien KD diet. Thank goodness I found out from a pre-op for a growth removal since her Dad died of kidney failure at 12. DeeDee is 11. Flash and Peeker are 9 ! That leaves Bubbles at 3, Nibbs at 19 mo.s, Nickolas 16 mo.s and Scoop (hopeful keeper) 5 weeks!
OH- and Rio who will be 7 in Dec. He hasn't been back here too long..almost forgot him in the list