Treasure DAY 51 / Dear Pam

To Pam, with love from Treasure xoxoxox

Dear Pam,

Thank you for calling today and asking all about me.  It means a lot to know you, Sam, Paris and of course my dear Gibson are thinking of me. Although Ann was sacked out on the couch still dealing with her flubug I could hear her speaking with you on the phone as I snuggled close to her. It is getting harder for us to snuggle together comfortably on the couch because of weight issues (hers as well as mine but don't tell her I said that!).  I do seem to be so hungry all the time lately and begging for food which is something I don't usually do.  John and Ann are making sure I eat several small meals a day though with all the extras.  I love laying on the cool floor in the kitchen watching them prepare something yummy for me up on the counter.  They have become very creative in making sure I have the very best nutrition possible.  I heard them say the other day it is almost time to begin giving me what they call 'nursing mother's pudding'.  They make me feel so special because they get their cookbooks out when they make it - something just for me!  Well, pretty much just for me. They are fair about sharing things with my ATB family, and I don't mind usually. My Aunt Julie has crocheted several beautiful puppy blankets for Gibson and my babies.  She is the best.  We are still very sad here about her Jim though and still can't believe it and I know you all feel the same. But we are all here for each other, that's what makes this all so special. 

Wait until you and Sam see what John has done in the garage!  I am going to be the first one here to have puppies in our brand new puppy room.  It has it's own hot air furnace which feeds in above where the whelping area will be.  The room is divided by a counter that has a swinging 'dutch' door. It is so cool. He made swinging/retractable arms so that the heat lamp could easily be adjusted from any angle to keep me and my babies warm.  I'm not supposed to talk about the babies like they are here yet though, Ann says anything can happen between now and then but I know I'm going to do my best and that they are too - so here is hoping, believing, and praying for the best. (You know how 'she' is about praying!)  They hope to have everything all set so we can begin to spend more time in there together so I can get used to it. My brother Jack thinks it's all about him but boy do I have news for him!

Ann took some pictures as you can see above, I know you told her to wait until she felt better but John made her a real nice dinner tonight and it seems to have perked her up a little.  I'm really just into laying in front of the wood stove these days and resting.  My other ATB friends are with me of course but our time together is much more limited.  I mean some of those nutcases play too hard for a overly rotund pregnant Brittany like me and you never know when the Pippinator will challenge me to race of if Scooby will want to rough house.  They do seem to understand though and get the message when I look at them a certain way.

At 7 - 8 weeks movement is usually noted.  Again Ann's so cautious about this but just between me and you, you can tell Gibson I think he got the job done again. My svelt figure is like gone - and my boobs are quite enlarged, even all the way to my front ones!!  She'd get mad at me for saying that but it's true.  Also, I KNOW she felt the little tiny ripples that gently took place underneath her hand this afternoon.  She is so careful about me but I do so love to lay on top of her hand.  When Ann or John are nearby, I will come lay just as close as I can to them and try to maneuver my body so that their hand is underneath.  They seem to like it when I do this.  I have had to slow down a lot when outdoors.  John plowed a wonderful track around our property so I don't have to leap through the snowdrifts and can stay on flat ground.  I do love being outdoors as much as possible.

Well they tell me all my puppies are spoken for and that there are still people who would like some if there are more than they anticipate. I trust them to hand pick very special families for my puppies.  If they are anything like the people who have our pups from last time, we will all be very very happy. True seems to know something is going on with me.  I let him get closer than Jack or Scooby, he is after all my little boy.  I'm proud of True and he told me you're going to show him again in 2011. That makes us all very happy!

The next two weeks will be most difficult for me but I know everyone loves me so much and is taking good care of all my needs.  The whelping supplies are being replenished, towels and blankets will be gathered, and life will soon go on hold here. I know you will be kept informed every step of the way.  We are very happy that you and Sam are not only the owners of my sweet Gibson, but also very dear friends of All Things Brittany and many of our friends and family.  We think that's the way it should be.  Well I'm pretty tired and I think it's time for Ann to take some more cough medicine or something and get back under the covers.  She is writing this for me.  Please tell Gibson I love him and that this is the first time I have ever written anything like this before.  We made a beautiful family together and I hope we have done it again.  Tell Paris that I love her too, she is so beautiful and I know one day she and Gibson will also do the same!

Love to you and Sam from Treasure xxxxoooooxxxxoooxxooo

Treasure Update/ Snow Brittanys / Christmas

Treasure stares at the ham as John puts on the finishing touches.  She is trying to levitate it right into her mouth.  You can see a little bit of her wideness here.

TREASURE / GIBSON PUPPY UPDATE:  Tomorrow makes 7 weeks for Treasures ongoing pregnancy.  She is very wide, her nipples are actually enlarging, some of the hair around them is coming off.  Treasure must eat very small meals several times a day or she will be uncomfortable.  Her appetitie is unbelievable, I do not think I have ever seen a mother to be behave as such a chow hound.  We are paying extra close special attention to all of her needs, especially nutritionally and exercise wise. The new puppy room is coming along very well.  There are still a few important touches that are needed.  We hope to be able to use it but if it's not perfectly ready, we will set up our nursery as we have always done in the past.  For the time being, Treasure is being treated like the queen she is. I am awaiting to feel the very first movement, that little flutter that indicates life in the womb. For me, this time and the weeks soon to follow are among the most important moments in the life of ATB. Life has just about started to go on hold for me now in regards to Treasure. I thank God John and I are in this season of our life where it can be that way.  I am especially appreciative of how John makes certain life at ATB continues at it's normal schedule and pace.  In recent months with my inability to be as active on a daily level as I have in the past, it's been so wonderful to see how strong the relationship and communication between John and our canine crew have become. Sometimes I feel like chopped liver but I do think they understand.  (Look for an updated waiting list which will include those waiting on this upcoming litter, and looking for our future plans well into 2011 and 2012 including referals to other breeders involved with our breeding program here.) 

The snow is coming down at a very impressive clip here at ATB.  Although in my opinion this storm does not quite fit my idea of what a blizzard is there is still a lot of new, freshly fallen snow.  The wind gusts are strong. There are places around the yard where the drifts are well over 4 feet tall and other spots where the ground is bare.  John has been out on the tractor plowing all morning long; first our driveway, then over to both of our neighbors to help out.  One neighbor has been battling the big "C" for awhile now and although he's been able to do more physically John promised he would do what he could around the yard.  Our other neighbor's snowblower broke down; he and his wife were shoveling and John swung by their driveway too to lend a hand.  Back here he finished up by making a track around the perimeter of the yards for ATB to enjoy running and exercising without having to get all snowy, wet, and cold.  Brittanys typically develop a very nice winter coat which insulates, shields, and protects them from the elements.  We've bought dog coats for them in the past but it's not something they are likely to keep on for very long especially as they romp through the woods. Their outdoor activities are closely supervised during the winter months of course and it's easy to know when they should return to the house, ours or theirs.  When outdoors with the dogs it's important to check often that their under/winter coat is warm and dry.  It's important for them to develop such a coat.  Also when outdoors in the snow with your Brittany (or any dog) as soon as you see them paying undue attention to their feet or to their private ares, time to take them in and be sure they remove the little snowballs of snow that accumulate.  There tends to be more of an accumulation in between the toes of those dogs who have their feet groomed to the extent that hair is removed.  Leaving the bloomers longer in the winter helps protect their more sensitive parts from the cold. Another important thing regarding young male pups - it's not good for them to spend a lot of time with their 'cookies' directly exposed to the snow. In other words, a young male pup really should not spend much time romping in deep snow for very obvious reasons.  A female who has had pups or is approaching whelping usually does not have a lot of coat on her abdomen therefor exposing her tender nipples.  Be careful in all of these aspects. But above all, let them be a dog and romp and dash and jump and leap and dig and bury and play in the snow!

Well I have been battling this season's bug on and off for the last couple of weeks.  I have to say that I think I am losing the battle once and for all. With the new jamies for Christmas and the 'hug throw' I may surrender in the name of being a couch potato. 

Our family, neighbors, and friends enjoyed getting together for Christmas on Friday night at our daughters home (which is our prior home) and then again on Saturday here at ATB.  I am happy that she carries on the tradition of an open house Christmas Eve Buffet where in some cases it's the only time we see some of our family or friends during the year.  On Christmas Day we had a tree here for our family in the afternoon and served dinner for 17.  It was a wonderful full house.  All 7 grandchildren played together, my nieces were here, our son and his wife, daughter and her husband and it was good.  A lot of work and effort but always worth it for another year.

The chills are getting the best of me.  Time to crawl back to bed. Sigh. I shall try to get back for a Happy New Year greeting - but if not - we hope that you all have a wonderful and blessed New Year! Much love and God Bless, John, Ann and All Things Brittany

MAINE: State of Emergency Delcared

Maine Government News
Back to current news.

Governor Declares State of Emergency to Prepare for Severe Winter Storm; State Government Closed on Monday, Dec. 27
December 26, 2010
Governor's Office

AUGUSTA - Governor John E. Baldacci today declared a State of Emergency in anticipation of a severe winter storm that is expected to produce heavy snow, high winds and blizzard conditions, including extreme whiteouts, periods of zero visibility and drifting snow.

The Governor has also directed that Maine State Government be closed on Monday, Dec. 27. Emergency and essential personnel will be on duty.

“The National Weather Service is warning of extremely dangerous conditions,” Governor Baldacci said. “The best advice is to avoid all unnecessary travel, to stay off the roads and allow road crews and emergency responders to do their work.”

The Governor spoke Sunday to the staff of the Maine Emergency Management Agency, which will coordinate the State’s response to the severe weather, and is monitoring the storm closely.

The State of Emergency will allow the State and MEMA to utilize the resources necessary to respond to the storm and protect public health and safety.

The National Weather Service has posted Blizzard and Winter Storm Warnings for all of Maine. Coastal flooding is also possible later tonight for Portland and other coastal areas. The storm is expected to intensify overnight, and dangerous conditions will continue into Monday late afternoon and evening.

The Maine Emergency Management Agency joins the NWS Gray and Caribou Forecast Offices in urging all Mainers and visitors to stay off the roads, pay close attention to weather warnings and stay safe.

MEMA advises:

• Stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. Blizzard conditions are forecast for coastal and eastern Maine. Strong winds, low visibility, blowing and drifting snow will all make for extremely dangerous, life-threatening whiteout conditions. The fewer vehicles that are on the road, the easier it will be for snowplows to operate.

• Pay attention. The National Weather Service is tracking this storm closely. Stay “tuned in” to your best source of weather information to stay up to date on the latest predictions for the storm. Up to date weather warnings are posted at www.maineprepares.com

• If you lose power, use emergency generators and alternate heat sources safely. Carbon monoxide kills. Remember to keep outside vents for heaters and stoves clear of snow, as clogged vents may also pose carbon monoxide dangers.

• Check on neighbors and friends who may not be as well prepared.

• If you see a downed power line, stay away from it, and notify the electric utility.

• If you are in an area that is vulnerable to coastal flooding, stay aware of any local conditions, and cooperate with any local road closures or other emergency measures.

Special Safety message about Carbon Monoxide Poisoning:

Warning signs of CO poisoning are flu-like symptoms such headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness and confusion, but without a fever.

If you or anyone in the home thinks you are being poisoned by carbon monoxide:

• Leave the house at once.

• Call the fire department or 911.

• Get medical attention. Call the Poison Center (1-800-222-1222) or your doctor after you leave the house.

• Stay out of the building until the fire department tells you it is safe.

For more information on storm safety and preparedness, visit www.maineprepares.com

Take Time for Christmas / Inspired by Julie

Nubble Light at Christmas, York Beach, Maine

It's Wednesday December 22, Christmas Eve is hours away and soon the birth of Jesus Christ will be celebrated in every nation and in every tounge.  The hustle and bustle of the season surrounds us all as each of us tries to rekindle that special feeling which we know Christmas is supposed to bring.  Music, lights, beautiful gifts, decorations, baking, wrapping, shopping, running to and fro - these are the things that for some signify this most holiest season of the year.  Christmas programs, t.v. specials, songs on the radio, special church services, caroling, acts of kindness and charity to those in need, outreach, support, and an effort to smile more and extend kindness are all part of this. In many homes there is a candle burning for a loved one who is far away fighting on a foreign shore. Some outdoor lighting displays are extravagant and set to music, cartoon characters, and neighborhoods compete for the most creative displays while lines of traffic fill their neighborhoods to show the children 'Christmas lights and decorations.'  Aroma's of Christmas past fill kitchens in hopes this too will somehow serve to enhance the whole experience of Christmas 2010.  Pies, candy, cookies, sit waiting on the table or fill the refridgerator. Some to be given away, others to be enjoyed at Christmas dinner.  Still... the feeling that you have forgotten something important, what is it that is missing? Is it one more gift for that special someone?  Is it the Christmas card to send to a longtime friend?  Is it the phone call to the neighbor down the street? What is missing amidst all the wrappings and trappings of this, that is called Christmas?    The Christmas wish lists were requested months ago, phone calls made asking 'what do you want for Christmas this year?'  Some will answer simply, that they like anything and that is true for them because it is enough to be remembered, not so much what is given.  Others will give an elaborate detailed list of items they would like and again, the giver is pleased to please the receiver. Giving and receiving, means something different for everyone. Some have a gift to give generously, sincerely, from their heart.  Others have a sense of obligation in the giving.  And there are those who really cannot give anything at all, other than their love and their time, their presence, assistance. On it goes.  There is a bit of all of us in the above scenerios, and there is nothing wrong in that - we are all individuals, all uniquely human. 

But this year a friend of ours is facing her first Christmas without her beloved husband. You have read of this in recent posts.  And we too are without a very special friend and feel this loss although certainly not to the extent she does.  Something which she posted on Facebook today has made me stop and think. It's something we all know and have probably said at one time or another. But for her - it is a reality. She posted a photograph of Christmas 2009, when her husband was still alive and then wrote: 

 "As I look at my profile picture, which was last Christmas, I wonder if Jim and I would have done anything differently had we known it would be our last Christmas together. I don't think so. We had a really nice day together. But it should serve as a reminder to all of you couples: don't let the pressures of the holiday spoil the happiness that should shine through your love for each other. God bless."

Profound words of advice.  Words which I will work hard to put into practice, not only in the next few days but in the year(s) ahead.  There was one Christmas several years ago when our life was as hectic as it had ever been.  We were expecting a houseful at Christmas, family had temporarily moved in, and nothing seemed normal whatever normal is.  It was not a bad situation, it was just a very stressful situation with a lot of pressures on the two of us, pressures which few realized at the time.  Without hesitation, I made a thermos of hot cocoa, packed mugs and cookies in a basket, and told John TOLD John, 'Come with me, we are getting away for awhile!"  This was Christmas Eve!  I drove the car to then nearby York Beach, out to the Nubble Lighthouse. Sitting there in the reflections of the beautifully decorated and well lit lighthouse, we spoke not a word as the Christmas music played on the radio.  The thermos of hot cocoa was opened and shared along with the few Christmas cookies. The ocean surrounded us and we simply 'were' together.  And we waited for the submarine races to begin ;o)
 
If you are a couple this Christmas, with or without children - please do take a few moments away from the hustle and the bustle, find a way to make time to make eye contact with each other, the look that speaks to each other across the room, that says I LOVE YOU.  Try to think too on the reason for the season, which really has very little to do with everything that we think is so important. Please don't get me wrong, I believe that giving gifts is an important part of Christmas especially for those who have a 'gift' to give.  I've been the recipient of those kinds of gifts - and they are truly a blessing to receive.  But - what if you did know this was the last Christmas you were with your loved ones?  What if all you have to look back next year at this time, are the Christmas pictures you take in a few more days?  Will you look at them with happiness, satisfaction, joy and the memory that 'it was a really nice day together?  Or will you think back on yelling at each other, worried that the food burned, or that someone was late to dinner, or any other thing which intrudes on the joy and happiness of the season? 
 
I have an idea for those of you who can - Why don't you make your own thermos of hot cocoa, grab some Christmas cookies and plan a mini-escape amidst the hustle bustle and promise each other you will not let the "pressures of the holiday spoil the happiness that should shine through your love for each other."
In all that our friend is going through this first Christmas without her husband, she took the time to share that little nugget on behalf of all of us.  Let your light of love shine this Christmas, but especially to those who matter most. 
Take care and God Bless, John, Ann and ATB

Luke 2:9-12
And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.  And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.”

Treasure, seeking dark places - already?!

Just a quick update! Usually Treasure sleeps with us but lately has been restless and also due to her increasingly full abdomen seems to be having a little trouble lasting the night without needing to go outside.  We decided to make her large oversized crate an extra comfy place to lay her head for a long winters nap when we go to bed.  Without any complaining she settled down with her favorite blanket and bone and other necessities for the night.  First thing in the morning she was let out to run, exercise and do her thing.  Typically she'll come back to bed but today she was a little crazy.  After jumping all over us and smothering with her loving kisses and hugs she did something unusual.  There is not very much clearance between the bedroom floor and our mattress but it is very dark underneath. Treasure scooted her cute increasingly pudgy little body way underneath and lay there for a few minutes.  She scratched the carpet a little bit and went around in circles but quickly settled.  Looking down over the side I could just barely see her peeking back at me.  I think she felt foolish as she didn't stay there much longer even though I told her what a real good girl she is.  Treasure's body is signaling her that change is coming.  We have a few weeks to go, about 3 1/2 to be exact and right now the things shes doing remind me of putting a jig saw puzzle together.  All the pieces are there, they are coming together, and when it is finished there will be a complete picture.
God bless each of you and thank you as always for your interest ! Love, John, Ann and All Things Brittany

"TREASURE"

Five weeks ago tomorrow John and I began the first of several journeys with Treasure to visit Gibson. If all goes well, pups should arrive in about 4 more weeks.  Although we have not made any official announcement yet (you know how cautious I am) the above pictures were taken this morning.  In the top photo she has stretched her rear leg out in back of her, something we see mother dogs to be frequently do as pups develop and grow.  Treasure also did a little rabbit "thump" sound with her foot, another action we see in advancing pregnancy.  Both of these behaviors often increase as the rib cage expands and the abdomen becomes full and uncomfortable. Also seen in the bottom picture is the change in color and size of her nipples, noticeable especially when there has been a previous litter of pups.   Treasure's appetite is suddenly very particular and she is unusually picky about her food.  Liver now becomes a staple food daily added to her diet.  I boil 1 pound at a time and then can it in a 1 qt. Mason jar with the juice it was cooked in. We add some of the liquid and chopped up liver to each meal, and refridgerate the rest.  Treasure is now fed several very small meals throughout the day to keep her comfortable as the assumed pregnancy continues.  She's also apt to need to eliminate more frequently now so these needs are considered as well.  Yogurt and salmon oil are increased as we switch her specifically to food formulated just for puppies.  She also gets a "Tums" daily which works, as the puppy food does, to meet her need for calcium which plays a very important role now.  Treasure's beautiful top coat is undergoing changes now too as there are so many waves to it now and she is sprouting fuzzy winglike hairs on the side.  Eventually all the hair will come out in the immediate area that surrounds her nipples.  After pups are born, she will "blow her coat" which means she will shed excessively due to the hormonal changes which occur.  Soon I will begin to prepare a special treat for her simply referred to as "nursing mother's pudding".  This is a homemade recipe based on the filling one would use for a cream puff and includes several eggs, whole milk, and corn syrup.  During whelping it's important to offer this to her to help fight exhaustion.  It's more important than ever for Treasure to receive her daily amount of excercise and free runs.  She needs good muscle tone and strength during delivery of pups.  We will stock up on @Pedialyte which will be her liquid refreshment in place of water when pups arrive; it restores her electrolytes and will also combat dehydration.

John is hard at work preparing our new 'puppy room' which is also our grooming studio. This area is now heated and has electricity. As I type I can hear the sound of the drill as he continues to make everything perfect.  It may be time to think of Christmas lists for most people, but here at ATB we are crossing things off of our 'Puppies Cometh" list!  We're also sharing the joy of knowing Bailey's 2 little boys, now over a week old, are doing so well with Paul and Dawn in Connecticutt - Jacks grandpups and Wish's great grandpups!  Jack is also going to be a father again in New Hampshire with the arrival of pups from "Jasmine" about a week before Treasure and Gibs pups are anticipated.  Inquiries continue and we are looking ahead to our future program knowing several wonderful homes are already lined up even into 2012, and for that we are thankful.  For the time being though, we have limited reservations for this coming litter to 7 however those on lists for future pups stand a good chance of a Treasure/Gibson pup if she has more.  John and I are enjoying communication with so many wonderful families who remain as hopeful as we are.

I think today we are going to put our Christmas tree up.  Usually we get in on the first weekend in December and often go and cut one down.  We picked ours out in a Sanford parking lot and spent way too much money for it - $35.00 !!! WOW~!  But we have it.  And yesterday John dragged all the boxes with decorations out from storage.  In all honesty I'm not chomping at the bit to decorate for Christmas AT ALL. Not that I don't enjoy celebrating the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ - but I guess I'm at the point where some of the trimmings surrounding it are a little overwhelming this year.  I did make some Christmas cookies yesterday and some of the shopping is done.  We always stretch our shopping out over the month and John is good friends with Santa Claus. 

Speaking of which - the sounds of construction seem to be drawing to a close. I best make way for the Christmas tree before it arrives in my living room and I'm not ready!

Take care and God Bless, thank you for your interest and especially know how much we appreciate the many experessions of love and support regarding the untimely death of our friend Jim and words of sympathy for Julie.   John, Ann and ATB

James Garfield Harris

James Garfield Harris
HERMON - James Garfield Harris, 64, beloved husband and father, died Dec. 7, 2010, at a Bangor hospital, after a battle with pancreatitis and adenocarcinoma. He was born June 20, 1946, at Stinson Hospital, Bangor, son of Ernest Harris Sr., Ainee (Stimpson) Harris Freeman and Alvah Freeman. Jim worked hard and played hard. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, camping, good times with friends, snowmobiling and other outdoor activities. He had many other interests too, including woodworking and cooking. Jim served six years in the Army National Guard and Army Reserve, earning the rank of specialist four. He worked several small jobs, but most of his career was with the Bangor Daily News. Jim was a journeyman printer there, having started as a linotype machinist in the composing room, where he eventually served as foreman and retiring as a pressman after 41 years with the company. Jim spent as much time as he could every summer at his camper at Long Lake Camping Area, Sinclair, which he especially enjoyed after he retired. Jim had many friends, and many special friends he folded into his family circle, including Terry Farren of Bangor, Ed and Judy Siering of Woodland, and Denice Carsley and Sheela Armistead of Virginia. He was very outgoing and could strike up conversations with anyone anywhere. He had no problems voicing his opinion about a topic and held nothing back. As Jim always said, "I am who I am." Jim attended All Souls Congregational Church, Bangor. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 3177, Brewer, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks No. 244, Bangor, and Central Maine Brittany Club. Jim is survived by his wife, Julie (Murchison) Harris of Hermon; a daughter, Cheryl A. Harris of Bangor; his first wife, Barbara J. Harris of Bangor; several nieces and nephews, including Jessica Henderson of Bangor, Larry and his wife, Diane Clark, of Palermo, Linda Hutchins of Old Town, Anthony Harris, Sherry Dubay, Michael Harris, Bonnie Solivan, Daniel Harris, Diane Harris and Ainee Holmes, all of Connecticut, Debbie Fontaine and Ernest Harris, both of Florida, Michelle Henderson of Lincoln, and Serena Sheen of Massachusetts; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Jane and Charles Veeder of Orono; sisters-in-law, Katrina and her husband, Matt Reiling, of Norwood, Mass., and Kirstin and her husband, Dr. Volney Sheen, of Wellesley, Mass.; and several cousins. He was predeceased by a son, Richard J. Harris; a sister and brother-in-law, Patricia and Herbert Clark; a brother, Ernest Harris Jr.; and his parents. Jim also will be sorely missed by his two brittanys, Sassy and Bullet. He was very proud of their accomplishments in field events, and Sassy's in flyball and Bullet's in the show ring. Relatives and friends are welcome to call 5-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 10, at Brookings-Smith, 133 Center St., Bangor. A funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, at All Souls Congregational Church, 10 Broadway, Bangor, with the Rev. Dr. James L. Haddix, pastor and teacher, officiating. Interment will be at Pine Grove Cemetery, Bangor. Those who wish to remember Jim in a special way may make gifts in his memory to Bangor Humane Society, 693B Mount Hope Ave., Bangor, ME 04401. Condolences to the family may be expressed at www.BrookingsSmith.com.
Published in Bangor Daily News on December 9, 2010

All Things Brittany Is Very Sad Tonight...

Many of you personally know or know of our dear friends Jim and Julie Harris who own and love Sassy and Bullet. It is with deep sorrow, grief, and sadness that I must write tonight of Jim's untimely passing on Tuesday afternoon. And all of All Things Brittany is very sad tonight.

We are sad because Jim Harris will no longer be on the other end of the phone, picking up out in the garage while Julie and I have a conversation, no more jokes to make me blush, and no more words of encouragement when feeling a little unsure.

We are sad because Bulletman and Sassy will wonder where their 'daddy' is. We are sad because Julie and Jim have been robbed of the joy of sharing their retirement years together doing all those things they love to do together and with their Brittanys.

We are sad because in Jim Harris we found a wonderful, generous, loving friend who would give you the shirt off your back. Jim cared deeply about his friends, family, home, and most especially about Julie and the dogs.

Nearly 5 years ago Jim and Julie came into our lives due to the loss of their "Rosie", a beautiful 16 year old Roan Brittany who was like a child to them. Grieving and hurting, they came to us to visit ATB and meet Molly, who was going to have pups. I will never forget that day and neither did Jim. He, Julie, and his daughter came through the door to be met exuberantly by several of our Brittanys. One of them was named "Rosie" and of course Molly was there too. They immediately dropped to their knees and it was all about the dogs, we were informed we could leave if we wanted to and there was no question a mutual love of Brittanys ignited a friendship that has impacted our lives.

Jim and Julie would come and spend the weekend with us here from time to time and it was always so much fun. Lots of good food and fun was involved and of course quality time spent with the dogs. Sassy became part of their lives and Jim and Julie became part of ours. In a couple of years Bullet joined their family and by then our friendship had grown so very much. It was not just a friendship between Julie and me, but it was a four square friendship between all four of us. We did a lot of things together those early years but little did we know how quickly things would change.

Involved at many levels with the Brittany club, we worked together on events such as Meet The Breed, Fun Day, Field Trials and more. We enjoyed a hunting expedition together and also had fun at a sporting goods auction. I would go up and stay at Jim and Julies a time or two. And I was always treated like royalty, as Jim and Julies hospitality was outstanding. Jim proudly bragged about Julies cooking and specifically her home made shrimp cocktail. Whenever at their house, or if they came here or even if Julie and I were headed off to a show somewhere - Jim always sent along shrimp with Julieis homemade shrimp cocktail sauce. We enjoyed going to restaurants together and liked a lot of the same foods. Our friendship just was meant to be, with little effort, it simply was. It simply was from God.

Over the recent years though Jim's health began to decline and no one really knew for sure why. But it was so sad to see this vitally healthy and vibrant man begin to literally go downhill. Julie saw it on a daily basis, we only saw it occasionally but it did effect us too because instead of it being Jim and Julie together, usually Julie had to come by herself. Which was fine, we always have fun but still, Jim was definitely missed.

This summer at a dog show Julie was summoned home with the news Jim had gone into the hospital. Up and down, reports, tests, in and out of the hospital and then back in. John, Sam, Pam, and Gary had spent a weekend up to their home to help get ready for winter with some necessary chores and home repair. Jim was that weak, he couldn't do the things he wanted to do. Days turned into weeks turned into months turned into - TODAY.

The last time I saw our dear friend Jim was in October and he had lost so much weight I cried all the way home. The other things too, Jim was in pain all the time due to the health issues he was dealing with. My heart went out to him just knowing things were spiraling out of control for Jim and Julie.

When you love a friend as deeply as we love Jim and Julie it is so frustrating not to be able to do anything to make things better. (Our friends Sam and Pam shared this too and have tried to be a life line for Julie.) We have prayed and asked others to pray and we will continue to pray now.

I have to say though I am so thankful for the time that Jim Harris has been in my life and in John's. We will continue to be here for Julie and I cannot imagine what this must be like for her. Oh that this would be a nightmare that she could wake up from. But it's not.

My heart hurts so bad as John and I grieve the loss of such a good friend. I am so so sorry for Julie. She is one of the kindest, gentlest and sweetest people I have ever known. Their time together was cut short. Jim had retired and they both looked forward to spending their years together enjoying their dogs and all the things they loved to do with them and each other. Some things are so not fair.

Faith comes into this as does prayer. And sometimes I sure cannot understand the mysteries of God when it comes to things like this. This is a real shock....

I just wanted to share this tonight or actually at this point it is this morning. I hope you'll remember Julie in your prayers. Thank you for being there, and remember to never ever take one moment for granted concerning those you love from one day to the next, or from one year to the next. Treasure each and every moment you have together because all that we really have is right now today, God is the only one who knows about tomorrow. Love and God Bless, John, Ann and ATB

Dog's Rules For Christmas

A Dog's Rules For Christmas

1. Be especially patient with your humans during this time. They may appear to be more stressed-out than usual and they will appreciate long comforting dog leans.

2. They may come home with large bags of things they call gifts. Do not assume that all the gifts are yours.

3. Be tolerant if your humans put decorations on you. They seem to get some special kind of pleasure out of seeing how you look with fake antlers.

4. They may bring a large tree into the house and set it up in a prominent place and cover it with lights and decorations. Bizarre as this may seem to you, it is an important ritual for your humans, so there are some things you need to know:

a. Don't pee on the tree

b. Don't drink water in the container that holds the tree

c. Mind your tail when you are near the tree

d. If there are packages under the tree, even ones that smell interesting or that have your name on them, don't rip them open

e. Don't chew on the cord that runs from the funny-looking hole in the wall to the tree

5. Your humans may occasionally invite lots of strangers to come visit during this season. These parties can be lots of fun, but they also call for some discretion on your part:
a. Not all strangers appreciate kisses and leans

b. Don't eat off the buffet table

c. Beg for goodies subtly

d. Be pleasant, even if unknowing strangers sit on your sofa

e. Don't drink out of glasses that are left within your reach

6. Likewise, your humans may take you visiting. Here your manners will also be important:

a. Observe all the rules in #4 for trees that may be in other people's houses. (4a is particularly important)

b. Respect the territory of other animals that may live in the house

c. Tolerate children

d. Turn on your charm big time

7. A big man with a white beard and a very loud laugh may emerge from your fireplace in the middle of the night. DON'T BITE HIM!!

Special Message...

Just a quick special message for JOHN!!!

As I head out to the dog shows I want to thank you for making it all possible for both of us to enjoy events like this with our dogs, with each other, and with friends. I figure you may check for the recent blog posts so wanted to publically embarass you - with a great big SHOUT OUT!!!!

JAS & AHW = T. L. A.

I know all of ATB remaining at home will keep you good company, and vice versa!

I Love you John,

Ann xoxoxox

PS It is also cool that we both get excited about things such as a dog being sick to her stomach and losing her appetite!

Treasure Sings & Dances for Her Supper