ATB - Christmas Video

Our 2010 Family & Friends Christmas Video, from our heart to yours!

Off to Winter Camp! / To Every Thing

J & A's High Flyin' Girl of Acton "Piper"

Piper will soon to be on the road traveling to South Carolina.  John and I kissed the girl goodbye this morning and left her in very good hands.  This is the third time we have ever sent a member of ATB away for a specified period to participate in a professional gundog training program.  (Greg - if you are reading this, see - we really do know how you felt about leaving Millie in June!)  The first time we sent a dog away it was JackDog, and he spent June through October in nearby Buxton, Maine. Jack had just turned 1 when he left but we had the option of visiting him on weekends.  The next time was when we said goodbye to Timber (Scoobys father) shortly after Thanksgiving. Timber went to South Carolina where Piper will be through March.  I will always remember how excited I was to be counting the days until he returned and remember it because it was the day after John and I and other Brittany club members had participated in an AKC Meet The Breed event. Timber spent the entire winter having a blast on wild quail and other birds, something I am so thankful for!  I know that many of our ATB family have also experienced the highs and lows of sending their best bud to bird training camp and it is never easy. Truthfully I was surprised when John mentioned sending Piper to winter camp but with her incredible hunting prowess I could understand why.

Winter and summer training programs are great for bringing out the best in developing gun dogs and field trial dogs alike. The dogs gain notable experience which adds to their instinctive knowledge through exposure to plenty of liberated and wild birds, exposure the average gundog owner cannot offer their dog.  From the day Piper arrived at ATB last December, we've seen something very unique about her.  I liken it to what the Hills have said about Bailey, another daughter out of Jack - "hunting right out of the box."  I saw her drive and independence up close and personal at the age of 12 weeks when she was bound and determined to cover the entire woodland surrounding ATB during a major snowstorm, off leash ! That was a day I thought surely I'd drop dead of a heart attack while running through about 18' of freshly fallen snow to capture her.  Miss Piper was not allowed off leash for quite some time after that experience. John and I agreed she was a pup who should receive very little by way of early obedience training at a young age, we needed to see what she was made of because it is a whole lot easier to train a hunting dog to hunt closer than it is to get out from under your feet.  She definitely was no boot licker as a young pup! 

The obedience to commands came in her own time over the course of the summer months where she daily was in the fields on birds, along with True and any other of our dogs.  The high point of John's summer truly was developing these two youngsters at such an early age and the results have been impressive.  Maybe they always are impressive; maybe they always have been impressive but this was the first full summer he has ever been able to devote specifically to the dogs training.  John refers to Piper and True simply as 'the pups' although now they've passed their first birthday.  It's not a secret he's not been overly fond of field trials and/or competitive events but I know that is changing; he saw what he could do with his own dogs while working with a seasoned veteran pro trainer.  Who also became John's very good friend and mentor.

As the day goes on and we busy ourselves on this day before Thanksgiving I glance out the kitchen window to see several dogs outside sunning themselves.  Rotation on this day means Molly, Rose, Treasure and of course Jack are indoors.  The run which Piper used the most is noticably empty.  I'm sure the other dogs have not paid any particular attention to that but I'm sure in a few days they will notice her absence.  Especially True.  He and Piper have been inseparable playmates, hunting partners and antagonizers of each other. (I plan to get him back into the ring as soon as I can afford to.  He is magnificent.) When John returned home from dropping Piper off I asked 101 questions and he patiently answered quite a few.  He said she was very interested in the other dogs around her, dogs that she would soon travel with and eventually train in.  A whole new experience awaits her.  A very positive experience. 

We'll begin to head into the winter months, enjoying Thanksgiving and Christmas and New Year. The daylight will linger at the end of the day before we know it. Our first snowstorms will come and go.  And we will look forward to the confirmation of Treasure's pregnancy and the ultimate arrival of her puppies.  We will also soon share the joy of the arrival of Bailey's pups in Connecticut, and eventually of Jasmines in New Hampshire.  Plans are in place for our own breeding program which will carry us all the way through to spring 2012, with some very exciting plans.  Dog events are on our calendar for next 12 months, trials and hunt tests, and more. Birthdays and anniversaries will be celebrated and good times shared with family and friends.

There is a purpose and a time for everything that occurs or is to occur in our lives.  This is true from the day we are born right up until the day we breathe our last breath.  One interesting concept about purpose is that what we do, who we are should somehow add value to the lives of others.  Although we need money, our purpose is not to make money. My favorite Book contains a lot of information and guidance about life's purpose. There was a song out while I was a teenager based on God's purpose for His creation, His children. 

To everything - turn, turn, turn

There is a season - turn, turn, turn,
And a time for every purpose under heaven
A time to be born, a time to die, A time to plant, a time to reap
A time to kill, a time to heal, A time to laugh, a time to weep

To everything - turn, turn, turn
There is a season - turn, turn, turn
And a time for every purpose under heaven

A time to build up, a time to break down, A time to dance, a time to mourn
A time to cast away stones, A time to gather stones together

To everything - turn, turn, turn
There is a season - turn, turn, turn
And a time for every purpose under heaven

A time of war, a time of peace, A time of love, a time of hate
A time you may embrace, A time to refrain from embracing

To everything - turn, turn, turn
There is a season - turn, turn, turn
And a time for every purpose under heaven
A time to gain, a time to lose, A time to rend, a time to sew
A time to love, a time to hate, A time of peace, I swear it's not too late!

Although the song was sung by a group known as The Byrds, the words were penned by King Solomon and are straight out the Bible in Eccliastes 3. I sure didn't know that when the song "Turn Turn Turn" was a big hit back in the late 60's! (A great commentary should one be so inclined is found http://clarke.biblecommenter.com/ecclesiastes/3.htm)

Well I've wondered onto a rabbit trail or so it seems and diverted from my original intent. But then I'm allowed to do that!  I can try to bring it all together as I reflect on Piper's purpose, and the timing of this season in her life.  I also can think of Thanksgiving tomorrow and so many things to be thankful for.  And I can sit back and ponder about this season in my own life and the many untold blessings that come my way.  This does not mean I am without frustration or that everything is Pollyanna like. But it does mean I can trust and know God is in control of all things, that I hope I can somehow affect the lives of others in a positive way, and at this point in time - it is these amazing Brittanys that we share our lives with and love who seem to be the common denominator in most situations these days. 

Okay, time to take the Pumpkin Pie out of the oven!  John and I hope that you and your family have a very wonderful Thanksgiving as you gather together tomorrow in your corner of the world. Take care and God bless you always, All things Brittany!

Nova and Grampa

I am still reflecting upon this past weekend of the pheasant hunt.  In speaking with our son today he said out of the four dogs Nova had a chance to hunt over she felt it was True who did the best.  The photograph above indicates she had very good reason to say that!  John and noticed if you zoom in on the bottom right photo the angle of True's shoulder indicates his right leg is off the ground and tucked up nicely for the point. You can click on this photo above and see for yourself!  Pretty cool.  Awesome boy that True puppy, nothing playful there just business, all business for a dog that knows what it's born to do. Speaking of True and Nova and expecting that Treasure will have pups in January - her puppies are due on Nova's birthday. That's all for now and as always, T.C. and G.B.,  J, A and ATB !

"The best part of life is when your family becomes your friends, and your friends become your family."

November 20, 2010 - Nova discovers bird hunting

John, Jack, Me, and our beautiful sharpshooting granddaughter Nova and her pheasants



For the past 24 hours I have been trying to think of how to describe on of the the most amazing days of my life.  Our good friend Julie summed it up quite well on her Facebook post: "This was such a magnificent day on lots of levels. A much needed physical and spiritual experience with lots of superb people, fine dogs and good camaraderie."

Sam and John had been working on an informal pheasant hunt for awhile.  As the days turned into weeks and now we're almost into December time began to be a concern along with the weather.  Sam, Pam, and John have enjoyed bird hunting together several times this fall in Southern Maine. All manner of hunting has been ongoing in the Short family as well including but not limited to Nova's turkey and her first deer, and our son's succesful deer hunting which most recently resulted in a nice 10 point buck. As a matter of fact, our Sunday dinner today featured some wonderful fresh venison steaks along with scalloped potato and green beans! 

John contacted the landowners he knows and working with the State of Maine secured necessary and additional field, training, and hunting permits for a pheasant hunt with a few friends and Brittanys and of course with ATB.  We knew it should be a small group but with Nova following closely in her dad's footsteps I really wanted to introduce her to bird hunting over the dogs.  When John told me he'd run into our son and family and invited her to join us I was ecstatic!  With our truck fully outfitted and Scooby, True, Piper, and Jack aboard we picked Nova up at her home EARLY Saturday morning and headed to the fields about an hour away. She was so excited which made me even more excited and plus I love spending time with her (and ALL of our grandchildren.)

Within an hour or so John, Nova, and I were joined by our friends (Gary and his son, Dave and his son and a friend, Julie, Sam, and Pam).  I had been wanting for Nova to meet our friends for so long, I am always talking about our family to them and it means a lot to me for them to know each other.  She was especially thrilled seeing all the different Brittanys there, several whom she had known here at ATB as pups over the years and of course Gibson the movie star.  It was fun not only to introduce our friends but also the dogs and explain who they were related to!

The morning was breezy and chilly but as the sun rose it became warmer. We brought cider, hot coco, coffee and I made cookies and coffee cake.  Sam and Pam brought hamburg to grill for lunch so we were all set.  Groups of 2 or more headed out together with their dogs.  A total of 11 Brittanys and 1 Lleweln (English) Setter enjoyed the opportunity to hunt and enjoy the day.  We saw great dogs and fantastic bird work at every level, from derby stage right up to finished gundog and somewhere in between.  It was so much fun! 

John really shines when he has an opportunity to put something together like this and he never disappoints. Thinking of everything, it is his desire to be sure everyone enjoys themself and yesterday was no exception.  Plus it's fun when you know the people you're out hunting with like we do. Several of us all belong to the same Brittany club(s) and have worked together on field trials etc.  We all lead such different lives, have various situations going on yet when we are enjoying the great outdoors with the dogs we love there is such a sense of comaraderie. No one was trying to "kick butt" in any type of competitive event, there were no standards to meet other than one criteria - have fun with your dog. Don't get me wrong though - each and every dog in those fields yesterday KNEW how to hunt. They were under control and handled well to their owners.  Although tips and guidance were offered, the owners of these Brittanys are hunting dog owners.  Several are shown, two are show champions, a couple are Junior Hunters, and others have significant placements and points in both field and the ring - even very close to finishing.  Everyone including the two 10 year olds, have hunter safety and training behind them, know all about guns and respect them.  Herein lies the heart and hope of All Things Brittany as we share experiences like this with others. 

Grampa released Jack to the fields as he and Nova headed down the slight incline together. Armed with my Canon PowerShot SX 120 I stood at the top of the knoll watching with several of our friends.   Watching Jack quarter magnificently out in front where John wants him, seeing those rippling muscles as he effortlessly strides forth and every ounce of his being poured out for one purpose - pick up the scent that he lives for - this in itself thrills my heart.  Listening to John 'speak' to Jack through the language of various whistle sounds, an occasional verbal command or hand signal is a beautiful sight for me.  These are things we have worked together on with our dogs over the years, although most recently moreso John than me.  John and I 'get it' and so do our dogs.  And yesterday - we watched Nova 'get it' too.

Nova and John conversed together and I can only imagine he was explaining about how the dog works, the wind, the bird and what the dog would do. What "Jack" would do, one of her favorites.  This was afterall a FIRST.  Moving nicely ahead at a decent clip Jack suddenly SLAMMED !!!! When Jack does this you better pay attention.  I watched as John guided Nova up closer, showed her how to come around the side, front, and back towards Jack and to be ready with her gun for the pheasant to flush. Grampa had told her where to expect the bird to pop up and anticipate what direction it would most likely take flight.   And in a split second which played out in slow motion I watched mesmerized, trying to take pictures but not so much as my vision blurred with tears.  Poetry in motion indeed as the pheasant rose, our grandaughter raised her shotgun, sighted the track of the bird in the bead 'just like daddy said', took the safety off and shot.  Holding my breath, watching as John stood ready for a second shot if necessary to take the bird down the pheasant gracefully cascaded straight down to the ground several feet in front of her.  Released to retrieve, Jack brought the bird back to Nova while a whole lot of shouting was going on at the top of the hill!  I was one proud grandmother and the look on Nova's beautiful sweet face was pure joy.  Proudly carrying her bird with Jack and Grampa walking by her side she came up and we hugged each other. At the end of the day Nova had 4 nice pheasants to bring home for the freezer, to put meat on the table.  And at the end of the day she told me that bird hunting was now her favorite kind of hunting.  I'm not only proud of Nova's first experience in the field with our dogs but I'm proud of our son, and I'm happy for John and thankful that hunting will continue on in our family for the next generation.

The torch was passed to two families yesterday in regards to bird hunting.  10 year old John also experienced the awesome awakening to bird hunting that Nova did when he and his dad successfully hunted over their young Brittany "Daizee".  On his own, with his dog well under control and on point, this young man also shot his own bird. 

On another level, many of the Brittanys there were also related so there was a chance to compare similarities in hunting style.  Age and maturity effect the dogs significantly.  We had two father/son pairs there; Gibson and True, Jack and Bullet.  Of course the varying skills and experience of the hunters are taken into consideration.  And the emotional aspects include the reality of personal life situations which effect all of us who are friends and family.  We care deeply for each other, most of us stay in touch on a regular basis, we are there for each other and for each other's dogs. When one member of our family is hurting, we all feel it in one way or another.  It is not unusual for some of us to pray together.

Speaking of ATB there was emotion involved there too.  Somehow all woven together.  Piper will be leaving to go to South Carolina shortly after Thanksgiving where she will spend the entire winter at training camp.  It is an amazing opportunity for her and one she will greatly benefit from.  Miss Piper has the highest drive of any young Brittany I have seen in a long, long time.  While some hunting Brittanys can adapt better to the decrease in field activity over the winter months, Piper is not that way. Recognizing at 12 months what she is made of means we recognize what is best for her.  Even so, this is a well thought out decision which John and I discussed thoroughly.  But in the end, it was his to make and I support it.

In closing, I also had the thrill yesterday of hunting over a handsome 3 year old white and liver male Brittany - J & A's Soaring White Sequoia of Acton, better known simply as "Scooby".   Scooby is 'MY' dog (did you hear me John??!!) MY dog.  He handles very well for me, maybe even better than for John at times but of course this past summer my field activity was severely curtailed.  Nova asked me several times throughout the day as did friends if I was going to do any hunting. I looked at the grounds, the distance, and felt apprehensive as to how much of it I could tackle.  I had decided no go - until I had a talk with Scooby.  John and Nova headed around the far side of the field and I took a short cut down over the hill to meet up with them at the bottom and to let Scooby get some of that fire out of his belly. 

Scooby caught sight of me and happily ran to catch up with me.  And he did have to stand up to kiss my face before getting back to business. He stayed to my front nicely as he quartered.  Soon my boy locked up on point.  He had a nice find but something was wrong with the pheasant as it couldn't fly.  I walked up in front kicking and thrashing.  Scooby waited briefly to see what was going on but decided he'd make life easier for me God love him and gently picked the pheasant up in his mouth and gave it to me.  Scoob and I tried once more but both met our match as another nearby pheasant flushed suddenly.  I don't like to shoot a bird my dog has not pointed, doesn't teach him anything as tempting as it is. Scooby and I enjoyed ourselves though, John called him back to the truck while I had a little help from my friends getting back up the hill! 

I've posted about 80 pictures from yesterday on the ATB Facebook fan page in an album.  Every time I look at them I smile all over again.  As we approach Thanksgiving I like to take time to think on those things I am most thankful for which are very consistent over the years.  I am thankful to God for this life I live, just exactly as it is and all that it entails.  I am thankful for family with my husband being at the top, for friends, and for very simple things.  I am thankful of course for these amazing animals who share my heart and home. And I am thankful for days like yesterday which truly are gifts to all who have the eyes to see and the heart to feel.  Let me just say thank You... Take care and God Bless, John, Ann, and All Things Brittany

She is a Treasure...

J & A's Dreams Come True of Acton "Treasure"

Sire: Pride & Joy's White Smoke / Dam: Birch Springs Wish Upon A Star

DAY 8:  Wherever I am with Treasure at the end of the lead the compliments fly and I proudly say 'thank you' to each and every one.  She is playful, fun, intelligent, observant, birdy of course, and very very loveable. All of her profile/bio information can be found on the Maine Brittany Website on Treasure's page. I don't mean to be redundant or repetitive but some things bear repeating and sharing about this sweet girl is one of them!  So this will be just a short post but I did want to share the picture above and the story behind it. Treasure is getting a very nice winter coat which I am simply going to let grow out.  Although she is in excellent shape for showing right now I would never take the chance of showing a girl who is most likely pregnant anymore than I would bring a young puppy to a dog show that was not of age.  It's just too risky what with the unreported cases of Parvo flying around.  But that is just me and other people have their own ideas of how to do things I guess. 

While I'd love to say this picture was of Treasure on point while out bird hunting that is not the case. What it is though is an awesome shot of my girl standing at the end of the walkway in front of our house sight pointing one of our homing pigeons from across the front yard.  I could see her from where I was sitting and went out to speak to her but she didn't budge an inch.  Her eyes moved ever so slowly to acknowledge she saw me. It's like she wanted to remind me she absolutely did NOT need a reminder to whoa and to keep my mouth shut.  So I did. I quietly walked away to find my camera and then returned several moments later. I thought it was a good chance she'd have broken that pose by then but I so wanted to capture the moment of beauty.  I bet 7 minutes passed and she still had not moved. No creeping nor tail flagging.  Just this absolutely breath takingly beautiful liver and white Brittany standing there quivering, nostrils flaring, and solid as a rock. Look closely at her eyes, they are amazing. I am sure if I went over to her she would have felt like a statue.  But that's how she is about everything.  Well I knew to her it was very serious and she was waiting for me to give her a command.  I probably should have said leave it and worked through as if it were a training situation, collaring her and walking her away. But I couldn't do that, couldn't rob her of that thrill of the moment so I walked away from her towards the pigeon while she kept her position.  Knowing full well my movement would flush that homer at the exact moment I released Treasure I kicked at the grass in front of me,  the pigeon took flight, and I signaled to her and off she went!  I didn't have a blank gun to fire but it was all still such poetry in motion. And I was still in my pajamas.  Take care and God Bless, John, Ann and All Things Brittany

The Journey Continues...

~Success is not a place at which one arrives but rather

the spirit with which one undertakes and continues the journey. ~

The photograph above was taken in October 2007 at the York County Kennel Club fall AKC Match.  Pam entered Gibson who was already well on his way to finishing his AKC championship title. I had entered 16 month old Treasure who had only started showing 3 months prior. When John took this picture of the four of us, Gibson and Treasure were both being considered for Best of Breed, which Gibson won.  Chrissy had also been shown in this match by a young friend of ours in Junior Competition and they did quite well.

I am always cautious when it comes to announcing the possibility of puppies.  In March 2009 we experienced the sadness of an empty whelping box as many of you reading this blog know.  There simply were no pups; either it was a "miss" or a "reabsorption" and although we'll never really know, in all liklihood it was a 'miss' and a pregnancy never did occur.  I am also cautious to announce the confirmation of a pregnancy, and likewise when pups are born.  But now it is time to begin to prepare for the long anticipated arrival of puppies!

If all goes well - and here are where your prayers come in - we expect to see puppies from Gibson and Treasure born here at All Things Brittany @ January 12th, 2011!  There is not very much to write about yet at this point but as the weeks go on, we will share important benchmarks as well as keep you up to date on what is going on in our lives.  And yes, we are very very excited!

We have a very full waiting list for these puppies which is always our goal before we even announce that a breeding has occured.  Those of you who have one of our pups or who are in the process of waiting for one already know we take this very seriously.  For every 1 person who lands on our waiting list, there are 10 who did not. 

Overall, we're very pleased with those who have confirmed their interest in a puppy from this planned litter. Once again, there is an overwhelming majority of hunting homes, and especially those who plan to test with NAVHDA.  January is an optimal time for hunting companions to be born.  It's possible to give them a head start with training and testing ongoing through spring, summer and into the fall.  By the time bird hunting season opens the pups are eager and ready!   I have also personally found that housetraining is accomplished quite quickly in the cooler months; pups get the message that when they are brought outside in chilly temperatures there is a specific job to do! 

"Required Reading" while waiting for the arrival of pups is "The Monks of New Skete - Art of Raising a Puppy' and 'Tarrant Trains Gun Dogs' for hunting families.  (Those with an interest in showing we recommend "Show Me by Pat Hastings" or "Raising A Champion". )  Art of Raising a Puppy is a requirement though for ALL new puppy owners - and people love it because they can follow right along in the book as pregnancy advances, signs of whelping, and each individual developmental stage of the pup - until it's time to go on. It also covers wonderful puppy training techniques.  Their approach and that of the other authors most reflect our methods of training and beliefs about training in most situations. 

We frown on adding excessive supplements to the mother to be's diet.  We begin to feed her puppy food which already contains all the necessary nutrition to carry her throughout her pregnancy.  But we make sure she gets plenty of yogurt, salmon oil, and a Tums daily.  With the benefit of my own father's journal and my own kept over the years, I can compare and adjust accordingly to prior experiences. 

So what will be the very first sign John and I look for?  We will expect at about 3 1/2 weeks to see a decrease in her appetite (usually temporary) and the clear signs of morning sickness. 

Miss Bailey

Although it is not our announcement to share officially, I'm sure it will be appropriate to announce that within the next few weeks Jack will become a grandfather !!!  His daughter Bailey was bred to Pippins father, Jac.  We are looking forward to these puppies and share the joy and anticipation with our friends Paul and Dawn Hill of Coventry Ct. who own Miss Bailey.  (Hills Brittanys is listed in our link list to the right). 

As always, take care and God Bless - and thank you for your interest! John, Ann, Treasure and All things Brittany

A SHOUT OUT for NOVA!

CONGRATULATIONS NOVA ! Speaking of family and grandchildren we are so proud to show off the above photographs of our oldest granddaughter who, at 10 years old, shot her very first deer today.  Having been drawn for an 'any deer' permit in Maine Nova has been looking forward to heading out into the woods with her best hunting buddy - her Dad.  She's no stranger to hunting as she had two successful turkey hunting seasons behind her as well.  Falling closely in the footsteps of her dad, she brings the American hunting tradition to the next generation of 'Shorts'.   Her dad shot his first deer at age 12, and her Grampa at age 15 so she's a real record breaker!   My phone call was so unexpected this morning, and of course I could not find the phone when John Jr. was leaving a very hushed message straight from the woods.  I quickly called back and spoke to the young huntress herself who was ecstatic with her heart pounding out of chest!  Breathlessly she described how it all went and how her shot was a good clean shot in such a way as this grandmother could almost picture it as it occurred.  I told her I wanted her to remember this day and how she was feeling for the rest of her life, it was a very special day for so many reasons.  With a healthy respect for hunting and conservation, our oldest granddaughter, Nova, has learned hunter safety and hunting skill from her dad, who learned it from his dad, who learned it from his dad... and so it goes on.   Following our conversation I tried to reach grampa on the phone but he was unavailable. Oh that he could have been here for the good news!  In a little while our son called back and asked what I was doing.  I said well, I'm hanging out in my PJs and getting a little work done, why?  Well - he wanted to stop after they tagged the deer.  I could hardly wait to see them pull up in the driveway and quickly made sure my camera batteries were charged and waited. (And I carefully crated the ATB crew in the house!)   As the truck pulled in the driveway I came down the front steps waving like a happy and silly gramie is supposed to do and  quickly hugged my very grown up granddaughter.  I could have squeezed her to pieces as I'd not seen her in a few months !  She looked beautiful in her camoflauge and hunters orange, just beaming and proud.  Her little brother came along for the ride with dad and he was very happy about his sister too.  We took lots of pictures and I put a few of my personal favorites in the SmileBox.  Her Dad's hunting advice was "when you see the deer put the bead right on her neck' and so with her 20guage loaded with buckshot that's exactly what she did as she aimed and fired with the deer falling gracefully.  She commented too that shooting this deer would help put food on the table this winter.  One thing I do really hope John and I can do before bird hunting season ends is introduce her to hunting over a Brittany dog.  I have a feeling she'd enjoy the experience, I know I would. So I'm going to consider this post as a SHOUT OUT to Nova!  CONGRATULATIONS!!! You are beautiful and we are so proud of you! We love all of our grandchildren and each one brings something totally unique and prescious into our lives.  We try very hard to let each of them know how very much we love them and what they mean to us. From the oldest (Nova) to our youngest (Ayden) each one is loved more than they will ever know. But sometimes, it's very very important to let one child have their MOMENT IN TIME, a moment to shine!  There will never be another 'first deer shot' moment in time.  I don't know if you'll ever read this Nova but I don't think I've ever seen you look as beautiful as when you sat down for me to take the pictures of you, dad, Solomon and the deer.  You are a true gift from God, a blessing to everyone, an independent and lovely spiritual young girl who understands deep things, compassionate warm and caring.  THESE are the things in this grandmothers' eyes when she looks at you.  I'm so glad to have the opportunity to use my blog as a SHOUT OUT just for you today!!! xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxxo  Love you, Gramie and Grampa

Meet Dr. Jeff ...or... It's a Small World After All !

Congratulations to Jeff and "Annie" (while "Ivy" looks on)

If you live somewhere in Connecticut and you think the bird hunter above looks like your veterinarean you probably are right!  Dr. Jeff and his wife Ann, also a veterinarean, came into our lives early last spring courtesy of Jim and Lori.   Jim was at his hunting club working with and training Miss Brandi when a another club member who had been observing them approached Jim about his Brittany.  One thing led to another as he learned Brittanys had been an important part of Dr. Jeff and Ann's life and that they were looking for a new young pup.  Brandi being Brandi helped influence his decision to ask Jim where she came from.  Shortly after this I received a call from Lori, saying Jim was trying to contact us from the field because he was talking to someone who might want a pup from us. It was not long before Jim and I touched base with each other and he asked if any of Jack and Molly's pups were still available, specifically any orange and white girls.  Just so happened a client had decided to select a male instead of a female and indeed, we had a puppy.  It's important to note here - neither Jim nor I were aware at the point in time that Dr. Jeff was not only a DVM, but a very well respected DVM among hunters for his work with sporting and hunting dogs.

Soon Dr. Jeff and I were on the telephone enjoying our initial telephone conversation as he asked about us and we asked about him.  One thing I told him was that before a new puppy leaves ATB we require proof that a well puppy visit with our clients vet has been scheduled.  I asked if he would mind scheduling an appointment with his vet and let us know when, where and with who.  I remember there was a brief pause in our conversation just about then, and then he told me he did not think that would be a problem as he WAS a veterinarean.  This fact did not sink in right away as I continued right on without a hitch explaining that it would be necessary to set up a vaccination schedule and introduce puppy to her new vet as part of her ongoing socialization; in other words take pup to the vets for something fun. Dr. Jeff was quite gracious and allowed me to continue just a bit more about responsible dog ownership. Soon my well intentioned stream of exhortations about preparing to bring a new puppy home came to an abrupt halt.  Talk about  engaging your brain before engaging your mouth! I was pretty embarassed about this obvious faux paux.  On the other hand, Dr. Jeff was quite understanding and I would also suspect somewhat amused.  Although I soon waived certain requirements on his behalf for obvious reasons, at least he was aware how important the well being of our Brittany pups are to us!

Soon after Annie began her 'first day of the rest of her life' pictures and notes arrived with frequent updates.  I loved hearing how she had won the hearts of the staff at Dr. Jeff and Dr. Ann's office and other stories.  It was interesting to discover too, that even with a background in animal medicine, there were still tips and advice specific to our Brittanys that we could offer.  Like how to respond to a young pup when they turn into a relentless, little pirhanna during each stage of teething! 

There is another interesting story about all of this.  In the fall, the Brittany club that Dawn and Paul belong to held a seminar that included a presentation about hunting and sporting dog injuries.  Dawn was interested to see that the DVM giving the presentation owned a young Brittany pup. Later on she introduced herself and asked the vet about his Brittany.  They discovered they had something in common, Annie and Bailey were half sisters, out of JackDog!  When she told John and I about this I just thought it was so cool.  Dawn was quick to point out to us too how nicely Annie was turning out!  What a small and wonderful world!

Speaking of Annie, she is full sister to Jim and Lori's Jersie.  Jim has had both of their Brittanys out hunting at every single opportunity.  I think they are in competition with each other.  I've lost count of the actual statistics but I'm sure their freezer is full!   The most recent outing resulted in 2 Pheasants for Brandi and a Woodcock for Jersie! 

INQUIRING MINDS WANT TO KNOW...

Well, let's just say patience is a virtue! There will be good news soon.  Suffice to say for those awaiting an updated J&A's Waiting List to arrive - we'll soon be asking for confirmation of  puppy reservations along with the suggestion to get your required reading started:  Monks of New Skete and Tarrant Trains Gundogs!

That's all folks!  Take care and God bless you and yours always... John, Ann, and All Things Brittany

Reasons To Believe

Sarah & Jersey - (Treasure/Gibson pup)

Sarah posted this on FaceBook and I just had to copy it and share it here with those of you who may not visit our ATB FaceBook site.  She and Jason live in Canada and their lives include Miss Jersey, a year old beautiful Brittany girl out of Treasure and Gibson.  A very interesting side note is that Sarah recently returned from Argentina where "WipeOut Canada!" was filmed.  She was selected as a finalist for the Canadian version of the popular television show and will be seen in the spring of 2011 when the show airs at that time. Speaking of Treasure and Gibson's pups - the upcoming repeat breeding is very very close to becoming a reality and the waiting list is nearly complete with a little wiggle room for John and I should we decide to keep a pup to train up as a started gun dog, since we KNOW what this breeding is capable of producing!  Speaking of which, here are two other  photos we were happy to see posted on FaceBook today:

Brandi's score was outstanding for NAVHDAs Natural Ability Test, one of a series of four tests.  In particular, the NA tests are designed to evaluate the inherent natural abilities of young dogs and gain insight into their possible usefulness as versatile gun dogs. It rates seven important inherited abilities: nose, search, tracking, pointing, water, desire and cooperation. The highest score for NA testing is Prize 1, 112 Points.  Brandi's score was Prize 1, 108 points. Congratulations Jim, Lori, Brian, Corey and of course to Brandi and Jersie! (Brandi is full sister to Jersey pictured above with her geese.)

Her grandmother, Wish (Birch Springs Wish Upon A Star) has very deliberate line breeding behind her which earned her breeders several NAVHDA breeders awards over the years.  The evidence of Brandi's exceptional NA score was very, very important to John and I and to the breeders of Wish as well as the many wonderful people who share their lives with a Brittany with these lines in them.  As I  shared in the Breeding Program 101 post, there are specific reasons we have for breeding, and everything has a purpose, especially working together for the love of the dog, both given and received. 

With the arrival of the next J & A's Brittanys pups will come the registration of a litter with NAVHDA. Their specific and primary purposes include 1) educating all interested persons in the techniques of training versatile hunting dogs, to conduct tests of versatile hunting dog breeds in North America and maintain records of such tests for all interested persons, and to promote selective breeding and population control of versatile hunting dog breeds. 2) To prevent cruelty to animals by the use of properly trained hunting dogs. There is a much more detailed profiled available at NAVHDA's website.  

We have been working deliberately at bringing in lines built upon a strong and solid background of not only field champions but of bench champions. (The field lines behind our dogs are stellar and without question.)   Our shift began with the purchase several years ago of Pippin's mother "Chrissy", a breathtakingly beautiful daughter of DC/FC Masked Shoshoni War Chief JH.  A quick look at our next generation page as well as glancing back at Pippin's page with a photographic pedigree of many dual champions there will testify as to the wisdom of  that decision.  (If not for Pippin, a very important friendship in my life would never have existed...)  Another important aspect of this will be Pippin's planned 2011 breeding to CH Tonan-Hopes R U Kiddin Me (Chevy).  Then in the late fall of 2011 or perhaps even early 2012 another exciting dimension will be added to our purpose driven breeding program.  I like to look back and see how quietly God connects the dots in our life/lives here at ATB and the 2011/2012 plans are no exception!

Right now the emphasis continues to be the evaluation of the natural hunting ability and most importantly the temperament of a well balanced, loving companion Brittany. And we continue to move closer to our first AKC show champion.  

So often we have conversations with hunters who are interested in our Brittanys for all the right reasons who eventually let us know they don't care about whether it's a show dog or not. Had that conversation today on the phone.   I totally 'get' what that means; I always have and I always will.  And don't worry, John and I have no intention of making showing dogs a priority in our lives or in our breeding program although our personal goals do include titling a few Brittanys.  But we are interested in being darn sure the dogs we are responsible to bring into this world will undoubtedly give upland game hunters an experience that exceeds their wildest hopes and dreams for a hunting companion.  And - a dog that is equally at home as a loving family pet. And this is something we have most definitely achieved - thanks to so many of you who have supported our program over the years and for those of you who just became part of the ATB "family"!  

We have taken no shortcuts and we have faced our share of challenges and frustrations.  But every single time we hear from one of 'you' about your Brittany - whether it is a picture of how funny Boog looked standing on the door of a loaded dishwasher, a note about Nash and his recent horn hunting expedition, Boomer playing with Ayden,  Zeb loving on Agnes, the antics of the Sassinator and the BulletMan, the amazing abilities of Miss Bailey Bug,  the sweet way Crystal waits for Kaitlyn to come home from school, the way Buddy dresses up for Halloween, Cody playing with his little rat terrier friend,  Woody and Doc, Becca and Durgin, Wylee with his white ear named after his father and his litter nickname,  Dakota, Bodhi who will soon have a young Brittany pup to contend with, Moxie oh love the girl... and on and on and on and how can I ever say thank you to the many wonderful people who make what we do such a joy, such a calling, have purpose and reason and in many cases - share the same love of God as we do?  Each and everyone of you is important.  And then - how about so many of you who come back one, two, three years later or more  - to add another Brittany to your family?  John and I have come to love and appreciate you all and the family grows with each successive litter because speaking of 'getting it'... each one of you absolutely does 'get' what we are about.  We could never go one step further without you. Even those who are waiting now for our first litter in a year, and planning for those yet to come in the distant future... some of you are brand new to the ATB family.  But you won't be a 'stranger' for long, this is true.  You will become part of an incredible network of Brittany owners who love this amazing breed as much as we do.  The journey continues on several levels for all of us here with hopes for several important announcements in the days, weeks, and months ahead.  Take care and God Bless each and every one of you - you're so very important to us.  John, Ann and ATB

Flyball MANIA !!!

This weekend 'Sassy' competes along with her flyball team "MAINEiacs" at the Flyball Mainia Dog Show in Boothbay Harbor Maine! If you're looking for something fun to do with your whole family, or simply love being where the dogs are all happy stop by and see what this sport is all about.  The entire ATB family is extremely proud of Sassy who has so many titles after her name that I cannot even keep count anymore!  The above picture says it all with highlights of a J & A's Brittany who truly gives new meaning to the word versatile!   WOO HOO! Julie, Jim, Sassy, and Bullet we wish you a weekend of joy, fun, winning, and all that you could hope for! Give our best to Rebeccah and the team ! Sassy's mom "Molly" and her two half sisters (Rose and Treasure) will be cheering you all on!  Love and God Bless you all, John , Ann and ATB.

PEDIGREE: Treasure & Gibson repeat breeding

Pictured here is the pedigree of our next planned litter of J & A's Brittanys. Clicking on it may make it clearer, and it is provided just FYI as a source of contact on the ATB blog. This will be the repeat breeding between "Treasure" and "Gibson".  More information is available on the Maine Brittany Site including photographs and brags about the current year old youngsters and parents.  The waiting list for this litter is nearly full. Due to the exceptional natural ability of Treasure and Gibson's pups from this (hypothetical) litter will be registered with the North American Versatile Hunting Dogs Association (NAVHDA) for future testing.  We have serious inquiries from hunting families involved with or who have an interest in NAVHDA.  If all goes well it is likely this (hypothetical) litter will be nominated for the American Brittany Club's Futurity for the appropriate year. Once again I just want to say THANK YOU to everyone who helps us evaluate our pups and understands our goals for without you it would not be possible to continue to move forward in our purpose driven breeding program.  I appreciate everyone who responded via email to the recent update here at ATB. 

On another note! We are looking forward to a busy November by the looks of things. The grounds work at the Maine Bird Dog Field Trial Grounds in Brownfield continues on behalf of the Central Maine Brittany Club and the Maine Bird Dog Club.  With it being deer hunting season our 'schedule' for the dogs to run and exercise is shifted around a little bit. Although orange is the color of the month I just have never been one to take chances.  For me, it's a fact of life. If you live in Maine near the woods, you don't take chances. Hunting families and non-hunters alike need to heed this caution.  I realize there are those who feel their 'rights' are infringed upon during this time of year for a few weeks.  It effects me too.  There is nothing I love doing more than tromping around out back with the dogs.  Even wearing orange. Although bird hunting season does continue (OH NO... this just reminded me I was supposed to help a friend with birds...) there are very few bird hunters that I know who would risk the chance to go out with the dogs.  Wait for December.  Anyhow.  Even when our kids were younger, they ALWAYS wore orange when out playing this time of year. No one complained. It simply was a fact of life.  I had a real nice clothes line strung out in our back yard. When I went to hang the clothes up or take them down, I put on a blaze orange hunting vest. It's funny, John can remember as a lot of you probably can - when wearing hunters plaid sufficed. 

There will be more updates about our program once we've sent the information out to our serious inquiries first.  Some exciting news and plans to share as time goes on.  But one step at a time... and besides, some of the news is not actually ours to share... yet.  Love hearing from you, thanks for the emails and Facebook messages. By the way, if you haven't joined FB yet it would be fun to have you join us there.  And the ATB family grows... leaving me looking forward already to NEXT summers Brittany Fun Day already!!!  Take care and God Bless you.... John, Ann and ATB