ATB: MAGNUM the Miracle Brittany Update

'The greatest thing you'll ever learn is to love
and be loved in return.'
*An update on J&A's Magnum The Prince of Maxfield.





April 23, 2012 was a day of celebration for the owners of Molly and Scooby's pups as they turned a year old. It was also, unfortunately, a day of devastation for the owners of Magnum, the beautiful male pup from Pippin and Chevy's litter, a boy John and I came very close to keeping.  My awareness began when I learned there had been a tragic and awful accident in which the then 11 month old Magnum was struck by a large pick up truck earlier that morning. Right in front of one of his loving owners. Quickly, I contacted the family who was in shock after rushing Magnum to the vets to hear a less than positive report. At first it seemed all was lost, with little hope to believe Magnum would survive the accident, let alone any extensive surgery which would be necessary for his survival. And even then, no guarantee that he would full recover, walk again, or enjoy life as only a Brittany can.  All I could do was offer my prayer support and reach out to so many people across the country to request they too join in an intensive effort to pray for a miracle with this Brittany pups life.  It was amazing to see so many people turn to God on Magnums behalf.  His owners and I remained close in touch, wanting so much to hope beyond hope, and believe beyond belief that this special little guy would come through.  And as all of us know, animal medical emergencies come at a very high cost, financially as well as emotionally.



More pictures of Magnum on a camping trip, swimming, mudding,
chasing ducks, and being loved.  Click to enlarge thumbnail.

God's hand began to move quickly as evidenced with a post at the bottom of the blog.  "Nancy", a vet tech friend who also is a huge fan of Pippin (Magnums mother) notified me that of all hospitals he could be transferred to for special care, Magnum was right there where she worked.  I know she is of like minded faith and would be there praying, encouraging, helping and indeed that is what happened.  And she was a blessing to Magnums owners, especially his human 'mom' but that is the way Nancy is.  Magnum just happened to show up there.  The diagnosis was complicated but did indicate that Magnums spine and pelvis had been fractured in several places. It was not known if the 'plate' could easily be repaired or how much nerve damage he had already sustained.  Quality of his life was of the utmost importance.  I consulted with a couple of our vet friends, one who happened to stop by that morning.  He assured me that the likelihood of a positive prognosis was very possible and greatly encouraged me with his knowledge of similar situations he had encountered.  I shared all of that with Magnums family, a very special and caring family where Magnum is loved by 3 girls and their parents.

Magnum had his surgery and went home to recover.  We were updated throughout the days and weeks that followed on a regular basis.  His family truly went the extra mile for Magnum, providing all the specialized care and attention, administering to all of his needs, which I know was not easy. I'm aware of how much of their time and resources were dedicated and sacrifices for Magnum. But I also know they wouldn't have it any other way.

I can't remember how many stitches it took to sew the incredibly handsome Magnum back together. I remember looking at the photos though of his shaved backside which clearly showed the skill of the animal surgeon in an incision that extended from one side to the other. The kind of incision that makes you shudder. Magnum eventually began to walk again, slowly and with difficulty. But he walked. And eventually he also began to run again - whether he was 'supposed' to be running or not, he did! 

One day I was reading an especially uplifting update about Magnum which blessed me tremendously.  Karen shared that there had been an anonymous 'donation' to help defer some of the veterinary expenses incurred for Magnums emergency surgery and aftercare.  Who ever that was, I thank you too and am so appreciative of your help.   Thank you for caring so much to help out in such a way.  God will bless you for this!

Well, I was so happy today to be 'tagged' on Facebook in a group of recent photos of Magnum enjoying some summer fun with his very active and wonderful family.  I thought it might be nice to share them, especially for those who followed Magnums progress since the first update on April 24. 

I believe and am convinced that God is faithful to watch over and protect ALL that concerns us, those who love Him.  I believe and am convinced He hears and answers the prayers of those who turn to Him in times of trouble, who put their trust in Him alone.  How else can one explain the chain of events, the people involved, and the final outcome of this one little Brittany puppy, named Magnum?  A puppy from the litter so aptly nicknamed "The Magnificent Obsession" litter.  Thank you to all who have prayed and continue to do so.  Take care and God bless,  John,  Ann, and ATB

*Sire: GCH Tonan-Hopes R-U Kiddin' Me (Chevy)

Dam: CH J & A's Heartfelt Legend of Acton (Pippin)

DOB: 5.10.11 Breeders: John & Ann Short

Owners: Jaime & Karen Carson and Family

ATB VIDEO: Sweet Dreams

I really enjoy my new camera. There are so many amazing features which I have yet to discover. It's so much fun to experiment with all the settings, editing tools, etc. I took these photos last night. No, our dogs don't sleep with us - much.

ATB: Continuing to Simply Be

July is halfway through, which means my self imposed 'sabbatical' is as well. As I continue to contemplate further upon what it truly does mean to "simply be" I realize it is beneficial for each day to include some structure. Whether that structure actually has 'teeth' or is simply a nice illusion designed to make one feel productive is purely a personal choice.  This structure could vary from one day to the next and should be extremely flexible. In my opinion, to live with an unyielding schedule is to live with a ball and chain tied to your foot.  But alas, I will concede structured schedules should come into play yet only when there is balance. 

There are bumper stickers with the quote: "no schedule, no phone, no address." It all sounds good on the surface and quite honestly, it's an approach I could easily yield to. Especially the telephone aspect of it (said she who absolutely hate and abhors the telephone.)  Even so that approach when taken seriously becomes a type of malady, a malady that retirees and vacationers alike are in danger of suffering from.  When the opportunity arises in our life to 'simply be' it's too easy to lose sight of the importance of responsibility and accountability. Too much structure binds us physically, emotionally, and spiritually to people, places, things, and issues.  All these things have the potential to consume our every waking moment and conscious thought.  Yet total disregard for structure leaves our mind, soul, spirit, being and inner man/woman wide open to the latest whimsical anecdote or philosophy regarding the purpose of our life.

As some people experiment with drugs, I suppose other people experiment with spiritual beliefs.  There is a wide realm of spiritual activity in the world today, with many persuasive and well intentioned beliefs.  A person can pick and choose their beliefs in much the same way we sit down to a restaurant with a 5 course dinner menu.  But alas.  As surely as not all food choices are healthy for our physical self, neither are all the spiritual choices and teachings healthy for our spirits, for our soul.

I learned years ago to be very particular about what music, books, teachings, and ministry I allowed to permeate my 'being'. No one ever tried to censor what I would open myself up to. When my children were very young, living at home I did pay attention to what they were watching on television and listening to on their Sony Walkman. When mom said no, mom meant no.  We joke now about how I had the kids get out of the car because they fussed and fumed about the music I had playing on the radio.  Don't think I was a terrible mom, we were just about a half mile away from the house.  But they did not want to listen to Contemporary Christian music.  And I did not want to listen to Madonna.  (Today I would choose Madonna's music over a lot of the JUNK that tries to pass it off as music.)  We even had cassette tape destroying wars at times.  One of my favorite tapes would either disappear completely or mysteriously appear all tied up in knots.  Likewise, so would theirs. A bratty adult is no match for a bratty kid. I had MTV blocked on our cable.  I encouraged our children to expand their horizons and live life large as they explored their world. But never at the expense of their innocence, vulnerability, or morality. 

I've been thinking a lot about these things lately.  John and I don't watch a lot of television.  I do enjoy having music playing most of the time.  My cell phone doesn't even take a picture, I don't know how to text, and I don't own one wireless gadget.  My youngest grandchildren have to show me how to use the Wii.  In 1989 we spent thousands of dollars and bought the latest and greatest home theatre system.  13 years later the television has just quit and the only component that works is the radio. For my listening enjoyment these days I link to Pandora or download MP3's that are free.  I discover many wonderful new artists this way.  I do have a hand me down first generation I-Pod Shuffle.  Times have changed for me.  Back in the early 90's I think John and I were about the only ones among our friends who actually had a computer.  I learned about the Internet and email via an administrative stint at a power plant.  In the 90's I was designing non-html websites.  And we always had cutting edge,  high tech computers and software. Including all the latest Atari computer games etc. That was then. This is now.

Eventuall I determined there was way too much noise and busyness in my life.  I remember years ago, riding in the backseat of a car with family and friends headed to a concert. The radio was blasting a Top-40 countdown popular song of the day. And I hated it.  I just wanted the noise to stop. I couldn't hear myself think.  I love music.  I hate noise.  But maybe people fill their lives with noise and busy-ness to avoid being in touch with the deep places within them. Maybe those places are painful, maybe they are sad.  I don't know.  But what I do know is I'd rather feel everything I was created to feel than stifle it, bandage it, and keep pushing it deep down inside so that I become numb to it.

Yet in those moments of quiet and deep reflection, how can we even KNOW who it is we profess to believe in?  I do know the answer to that question.  It is called setting a private, personal place aside - in both your heart and in your home.  Or maybe on a beach.  Or just somewhere that you have none of the other noise, none of the other busyness intruding.  A mini-retreat, a mini-sabbatical such as I am experiencing here at ATB.   And when you do this, reach for the Book that tells the stories of creation, of God's love for mankind.  Reach for the book of Psalms, of love songs, of praise and of prayer. Reach for the book of wars, of famine and flood, of despair and destitution. Reach for the book of hope and of revelation, of truth, of promise.  Reach for the book that leads the way to the living God, the life changer and re-arranger. Reach for the Bible where the love of God can reach out and touch the depths of the soul of any person on this earth who dares to open their heart up to that reality. Even briefly.  Because when that happens, the floodgates of His love quickly fill all those empty places of longing within.  Be still.  And Know. That He is God.  Just try it.  And do it with a Brittany or two quietly laying nearby.  They totally get this whole idea and concept of 'simply being' in the moment.

Take care and God bless you always - John, Ann, and All Things Brittany

ATB: To Simply "Be"

To simply be... this is where I am tonight.  A "place" of peace and contentment.  I arrived here randomly, through a selection of music playing on Pandora.  Above, is the piece which has touched my heart, reflective of all that I was all that I am all that I ever hope to be.  The name, SEA AND SILENCE is so appropriate. I saw photos on the Facebook page of my niece as she was kayaking in the afternoon, over in New Castle, New Hampshire.  Photographs of the waters just off of Portsmouth Harbor.  Waters that I grew up, where we all grew up living on a beautiful island of Colonial homes, a magical and mystical island to grow up on as a child, a place full of memories in my mind and in my heart. Funny the thoughts come tonight on this day, my sister's birthday.  Funny the sense of peace and calm arrive at the beginning of a week which will end with a joyous celebration of the wedding, of another dear friends daughter.  Time passes by. But life is good and sometimes even better than ever hoped for. Not always. But most often.  As I blog tonight the music carries me in the same way it once did at my very first creative writing class, a class where I also heard Pachobels Canon in D for the very first time.  All is calm.  And all is bright.  And All things Brittany is very peaceful tonight. 

I have so loved the many updates and photos of Bullet and Treasures puppies these recent weeks and days.  They are so loved and they are so treasured, what more could I ask?  And their daddy, Bullet, he has finished in the ring! Not only as a show champion owned and loved by Julie but also as the very first J & A's Brittanys show champion in the history of our gundog breeding program. We said we hoped he would finish before his pups all went home, and Bullet did just that. Right to the day.  I never want to forget what this 'feels' like to me.  I never ever want to take for granted how this grand event came to be.  I want to always remember being there in the ring as the judge pointed to Bullet and my heart leaped for joy for so many reasons, not the least of which was the beautiful Brittany himself.  A boy so full of love and affection, so playful, yet so keenly intelligent and filled with the strongest hunting instincts, instincts that continually rise to the surface and demand to be fulfilled in the field.  Julie told him that when he finished he would never have to go into the ring again, that job would be done but that from now on he'd be spending time doing what he loves to do best - hunting and field work.

This day John and I began the arduous task of transforming the whelping area and puppy playpen back into a grooming studio.  Truthfully I had been putting it off. Not so much due to the nature of the job, but more to the reality of the closure of the rearing  of the Triple J&A litter.  11 pupppies each one in their new home this night as I reflect.  11 puppies born on the 11th of April to our beautiful Treasure.  And to our first show champion, Bullet.  

All the shavings and toys, blankets, whelping supplies, the box itself and all manner of things relative to raising a litter of new Brittany pupppies - disappeared as the afternoon wore on.  In it's stead the grooming table, crate, mirrors, tack box and other tools.  All manner of things necessary now to keep this crew looking it's best in the days, weeks, and months ahead.  And I like grooming our crew. From a simple check at their ears to a full body summer field clip, it is time spent with each dog that I enjoy. They like it too. When I still went to have my hair "done", I usually loved the way I felt when I walked out of the hair salon.  The dogs love that feeling too as evidenced by their wild and crazy romps around the yard.

Treasure is doing wonderful. Her coat is shedding profusely but that is typical after having a litter of pups.  But her eyes are bright and her coat is glowing still.  On the day that Pearl (Patience) left, she and Treasure ran through the open door into the puppy play area.  Pearl jumped up on the stool and sat and looked at Treasure as she nosed around sniffing and pawing.  Then together they ran up and over back outdoors to play.  Treasure continued to show an interest in her pups right up to the leaving of each one.  She was a part of it.  After Pearl left for Rhode Island Treasure went and found a puppy toy.  She ran all around the yard with it as if to be sure no one had been left behind. Satisfied all was well, Treasure focused her attention upon me and begged me to engage with her in a game of keep away. I happily obliged. 

When it was still June I joked and said I was going to hang a shingle that said CLOSED during the month of July. But I realize I really cannot be 'CLOSED'.  Besides that each weekend is already full of plans and schedules including a nearly week long visit by two of our grandsons. We have plans though and it will be fun. July is a month of several dog shows but right now after our Brittany club specialty I have no energy nor desire to go to one single show. I will however look forward to getting down to the field as much as I can with John and the crew. 

It is a time to simply be. It is a time to remind John that he does not need to be planning the entire next week while we sit quietly at the edge of the ATB pond.  We need to remember to watch the dogs closer as they play. They live in the moment.  They are happy no matter what they are doing and never ever fail to let us know how much we are loved.  Yesterday morning we sat in the shade as the sun came up over the pond with each and every Brittany all out together at the same time.  I love our pack. I love our life. I love being loved and I love loving those in my life, sharing it all with John.

The joy of the Lord is my strength and indeed, this is true. Every moment of my day this can be a reality.  Joy.  Can be. A. Reality.   Joy is not an emotion or a feeling.  Joy is a state of mind which we can choose to live in.  And I do.  Joy is found in quietness and in simplicity, places of solitude.   It is only when we are stilled, quieted and make a choice to be still.  To be still.  To be still and to know. That HE is God. There it is.  Suddenly again.  How clear and how simple.  To simply 'be'. 

My goal for the month is to simply be.  Simplify my life.  Become unencumbered.  Place no high expectations on myself, John, family, friends and certainly not the dogs. Instead, I'm going to spend more time with all of them as well as with each of them than I have for a few months. They already are aware of this and they seem very happy about it.  They place no expectations on me and somehow understand and accept when time must be divided and shared. But this month, for the most part I am certainly all theirs. I think it's going to be a great month.

I'm thankful for those of you who read and follow this blog.  Even more so for those of you who love this amazing breed and of course - ours in particular! Stay in touch and may God always bless you and yours... John, Ann, and our canine crew of Brittany dogs.  (wow we bred a champion...wow)

J & A's Brittanys Video: July Dog Day Morning

Can't have too much fun with this crew!

ATB Video: Benny's First Water Retrieves

Thank you to Wayne & Barb for sending this really enjoyable video of Benny and his first water retrieves.  Benny is a little over a year old and is from the Mega Litter of 2011. His father is Scooby and his mother is Molly.  If you are familiar with the ATB family you know that Scooby absolutely loves swimming in our little farm pond here and has a blast retrieving as well!  Molly is not crazy about the water herself but several of her pups enjoy the water including Max, Sassy, Jersie, and obviously Benny.  Once again I am reminded that it is truly always all for the love of the dog, both given and received and it's a pleasure to share this video courtesy of Bennys great owners.

J & A's Brittanys "Triple J&A Litter" New Families

Congratulations 11 new puppy families!!

 

FIRST DAYS FOR Treasure & Bullets 11 Puppies

A responsible dog breeder understands the importance of carefully selecting just the right family for each puppy in  a well planned litter.  Experience teaches the best way to determine that as year after year you 'get a feel' for those who contact you. Unfortunately, sometimes mistakes do occur but you learn from them.  You learn to follow your heart, your gut, your instincts. If you have faith in God, you learn to trust Him and come to the realization that everything you do matters to him. Everything. All anxiousness dissipates.  Peace prevails.  There is no sense of urgency. Not when God is in control.

As the Triple J&A Litter turned 8 weeks old the majority of the pups were spoken for. Over the past 3 weeks there has been a steady exodus of pups leaving here with their new families.  There has also been an ongoing interest in the pups that remained available.  Right up until last Tuesday John and I were still having conversations with people about "Patience".  A lot of people were interested in her.  We turned several folks away. A lot more were well qualified but did not have the time available to care 24/7 for a young puppy in the beginning.  But today, she left us to travel with her new family, to live a wonderful life in Rhode Island. And her new name is "Pearl". 

Speaking of names I have loved hearing about the naming of the new puppies, enjoyed the photos and updates. I am especially been happy to know that all the time and love poured out and deposited in to the lives of these beautiful Brittany puppies is evident in their personalities.  The pups went home crate trained for the most part.  They were also well on their way to being house broken.  A couple of puppies had experienced the pond and they all loved water.  Several were actually play retrieving when they went home. All were adjusting to the leash. They all had been introduced to clicker training at the most basic level. As the day drew nearer for each indivudual pup, they also had a chance to demonstrate their birdiness.  Loud noises made in the presence of  this litter elicited a very minimal "ho-hum" response.  Well socialized around children, adults, and other dogs the pups loved their mother and she them. Right up until the day they left, Treasure remained a part of their life.  I am a firm believer in momma dog remaining as an active influence in her pups in as much as possible. There are just a few days during weaning that Treasure really did not want them around her and she would warn them (and us!) with understandable grrrrrs.  Once her milk supply was naturally dried up she quickly included them in her romps and playfulness.  I learned a lot of new things but mostly I am encouraged that we are doing it right.  I don't say that with boasting in mind or with a puffed up sense of pride. I say it because I see the evidence and with 11 pups, the evidence speaks for itself!

 

What was interesting about this litter is that neither John or I ever saw the typical pack heirarchy develop.  They were all pretty much equal in disposition and personality.  Often you really do see a lot of squabbling and carrying on for puppy scuffles are the most vicious of all!  Not with this litter, not at all.  Of course there were pups that for one reason or another I felt particularly connected to.  And those which John felt strongly about. I know too that Julie was drawn to certain pups. But I loved them all.  I will always love them all,  ALL things Brittany.

And yes.  The question was asked several times this month as we kissed our pups goodbye. "How do you do it? How can you let them go? Is it hard? I couldn't do it."   My answer is to tell 'you' it is always bittersweet, but that because of the knowing in my heart and in Johns that we are confident of where each pup is going to go, that there is no sense of uncertaintly when they leave - it is good, it is all good.  We hug because we're huggers. We say we believe it is a God thing because we believe it is. We are already enjoying the new friendships that are growing, joining with others here at "ATB" (I joke and call it the "ATB Cult".) But just don't look at me after I say goodbye and begin to walk up to the house as John works the gate to open it.  I stand on the porch or in the door and wave goodbye, I watch your car as it drives away.  I am happy and I am sad.  And yes.  You betcha it is hard to let them go.  And yes.  Those tears fall, not just from "Momma Ann's" eyes, but from "Poppa John's" as well. But these pups are now entrusted into 'your' very capable hands, to share your daily lives with, to laugh and enjoy, to exceed your hearts desire as you give them the quality life that they are deserving of.  We have done everything we possibly can.  And now their life is in your hands from this moment on. And they would not be in your hands, if we did not believe you would give them the best of your own love.

I walked back into the puppy room, looked into the empty puppy playpen still full of shavings, toys, and pails. It looks like the aftermath of a hurricane!  All is calm. And my life is better for loving and caring for those 11 beautiful, remarkable puppies sired from our 1st champion, and as a result of our first breeding back into our own line. The Triple J&A Litter - The Jim, Julie, John, and Ann litter.  I am just as reflective this afternoon as Pearl left as I was on the day her mother Treasure was whelping her.  Indeed.  It is, a God thing.

Take care and God bless you and yours always,  John, Ann, and All Things Brittany

PS Don't miss the announcement posted just prior to this one about Bullet's championship. There is a link to view my video interpretation of his exciting accomplishment!

ACHIEVEMENT: BULLET, First Bred By Champion !!

Congratulations are in high order for Julie and Bullet and his handler, Joyce Coccia.  Last Thursday, June 21, 2012 at the Maine Chicadee Classic Dog Shows in Cumberland Maine Bullet finished his AKC Bench Title!!! Pending AKC approval, Bullet is now:

CH J & A's High Caliber Harris Special JH
Sire: J &  A's Apple Jack of Acton JH
Dam:  KJ Requet's Bouncin' Crysta

Finishing his championship with style and in competetion with 5 other male dogs, Judge Nancy Leibes awarded Bullet a 3 point major,  his second major won in 5 months under the professional handling of Joyce Coccia.  Although Bullet's owner (Julie Harris) was not ringside to see her boy in his his shining glory, his moment in time - I was so fortunate to actually be in the ring handling Hemi and watched as the judge pointed to Bullet as Winners Dog !!!  It is a moment I will never forget and will be proud of forever.  Julie (and her late husband Jim) NEVER ever doubted that Bullet would become a show champion one day.  John and I are grateful for the mutual belief they shared regarding this boy, and the perseverance and commitment that was necessary to finish him.  It's been quite a journey and many true friends have been a part of it offering much assistance, support, and love along the way through grooming tips, handling advice and words of encouragement.  Three years ago, at the same show location Bullet won his very first show point in Maine.  How awesome for him to win his final points as a 3 point major in the same place.  We had all hoped before Bullet and Treasures' pups went to their new home that he would finish - and that's exactly what happened.  Now Bullet is back at home, happily loving life with Julie, Sassy, and Thistle. Speaking of Thistle - she wowed her judge on Sunday with a 4 point major !!!  Thistle had won her first 6 single points by the age of 7 months old.  Now at 13 months she has 1 of 2 of her required major  wins.  (Pippin won 1st Place Open Bitch and Reserve Winners Bitch on both Thursday and on Sunday.  With a 5 point major behind her thanks to Dawn Hill, Pip just needs her second major and points to finish her championship, we are very close!  Hemi won 4 single points by the age of 7 months. We should also mention my True puppy, who also has 4 single points.) 

There's so much I could say but truly, I'm at a loss for words.  I will never forget this moment in time and I will never take Bullet's accomplishment (or that of any of our dogs) for granted.  I will however reflect on J&A's Brittanys 'life verse' which is:  Matthew 6:19-21  “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal;  but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.   For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Or as Joel Olsteen recently said: "God puts dreams in our heart that are bigger than we can accomplish on our own so that we learn to rely on His favor." 

Take care and God bless!  John, Ann, and All Things Brittany

ATB: Treasure / Reflections

Happy 6th birthday to our beautiful Treasure!

J&A's Dreams Come True of Acton

Sire: Pride & Joy's White Smoke

Dam: Birch Springs Wish Upon A Star

6.16.06

She was the first pup born, presented in the breech position and the teeny tiny toenails on her teeny tiny paws had reached straight through the sac which had protected her for the previous 9 weeks safe within her mother's womb. Her arrival into this world was also the arrival into my heart.  I knew I would be keeping a new liver and white Brittany girl puppy from Wish's second litter.  And the decision that pup would be Treasure was one made purely from the heart. 

What to call her was the question which I pondered. John and I have unique methods for selecting names and there are times when we yield right of way to each other in these regards. Such was the case with Treasure because after all, he had named Jack without any help from me!  I listen to music almost 24 hours a day and most of the time it is either contemporary Christian music from Maine's WMSJ 89.3 or I enjoy piano and classical instrumentals.  I lived through the hard rock, heavy metal, flower power, rock n roll and I like it era.  My teen years and early adulthood was full of Beatles, Stones, Iron Butterfly, etc.  I also loved the music of Carole King, James Taylor, Linda Ronstadt and others.  So now you see I just don't care for all the noise that's on most radio stations.  I prefer instead to fill my head with either inspiration or music which has passed the test of time. 

Deciding that TREASURE should be the call name of my new puppy was due in parts to words in a song I had listened to on WMSJ as well as gleanings from perusing the thesaurus seeking synonyms for pride and for joy.  As much or as little thought as one desires can go into selecting a dog's name.  I find as time goes on I take more time than ever before deliberating. John and I so appreciate the great Brittanys behind Treasure on both sides and the dedication of the breeders who have gone before us. Consequently I discovered that a synonym for pride and joy was indeed the word 'treasure.' 

Now to consider an AKC registered name was twofold in concept.  Her mother's name is Wish Upon a Star, which is a phrase used in several musical pieces most notably Somewhere Over the Rainbow from Wizard of Oz, and Disney's theme song itself of when you wish upon a star etc. which is often followed by lyrics that include "dreams come true: in some version or other. I also do have a few dreams of my own and I wanted to be reminded that dreams do come true which in itself is to me, an affirmation of faith.  Most important to me, I wanted Treasure's name to somehow reflect what I believe about dreams, desires, hopes, goals, etc.  Not just regarding dogs of course but in all of our live.

How would I do that?  But hauling out my huge Strong's Concordance and looking up "Treasure".  Sure enough I was soon led to what has become the foundation Scripture for all of J&A's Brittanys which is taken from Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.  But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.  For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

So, for where my TREASURE is, my heart is also found.  Indeed! And in more ways than one.  Primarily Treasure is just that, a jewel and a gem, a beautiful liver and white Brittany that is loved so very much and enjoyed by everyone. Especially by me.  So as I think of all these reasons and descriptions as the most humble reminder is always right there in front of me.  And that is to keep my priorities in life straight, to consider what really matters the most in the long run. In the way we live our lives there are things that endure forever, which are eternal.  And there are things that are temporal.  For me, every time I speak or write her name, I am reminded that this is true.  (Speaking of 'true' there is even a word study somewhere in these ATB archives about how his name came to be!)

I'm a bit reflective this evening because "now there are two" puppies here waiting for the first day of the rest of their lives. (Trivia: the quote "first day for the rest of their lives" appeared on a poster which hung on the wall back in the 70's and attributed to Charles Dederich.  I began to use it several years ago in describing our Brittany pups as the exodus to their new homes started.)  9 puppies from Bullet and Treasure's outstanding litter of 11 pups born April 11, 2012 are already living the reality of the rest of their lives. It's really rewarding to know goals have been and are being met for this litter. This includes but certainly is not limited to the reality of the life ahead of them.  10 of 11 pups will be trained as close working gun dogs.  Out of those 10 pups, a majority will actually be hunting grouse and woodcock in - where else? - Maine!  (To those who inquired beyond the North East region I apologize but in most circumstances our Brittany pups remain within the general region, within driving distance.) 

Retelling the story of how Treasure's name came about seemed to flow with the way God has been working in our lives lately. He seems to be continually expanding our world, or put another way, requiring us to enlarge our tents to allow for Him to have His perfect way in our lives.  I think He wants to do this for every person with a particular desire in their heart. Don't you?

Take care and God bless you as always, John, Ann, and our wonderful canine crew of Brittanys at ATB.

Happy 7th Birthday Jack Dog



He knew he was the one he wanted.  John had watched our third litter of beautiful Brittany pups in over 13 years closely.  There was this one sweet little male, a sturdy looking boy who was primarily white.  The ones with the most white and the least color have always appealed the most to John. and he was confident about his pick of the litter born on June 13, 2005.

Each time visitors came to see our new pups they would run and greet people, woofing with glee, jumping and dancing to gain the attention of those around them. That is, all except Jack.  He would sit calmly nearby, wagging his tail simply watching all the fanfare.  He waited patiently and when his litter mates were finished with their greetings well Jack just confidently walked over to visit and stole the show for himself. It worked every time. John liked that in Jack.  And Jack knew it.

Our Brittany family had already started to grow by the time Jack was born here. Our move from the southern part of the state resulted in much more land in a very rural area and we began to re-establish a breeding program first started in the late 80's.  A program that was put on hold because a wonderful "life happened".  I often reflect and say that the beginning of ATB was the answer to empty nest syndrome. 

The summer of 2005 was a lot of fun for us and for our developing canine crew.  I clearly remember the way Jack would easily entertain himself while I was busy outdoors hanging laundry on the clothes line.  He would pick up a toy, a shoe, anything he could find really and do what I call a 'drive by'.  He'd toss it around to be sure I noticed and then run from the far side of the yard past where I was hanging clothes, to the far side of the patio.  And he's just look at me.  A few minutes later, Jack would go through this all over again, making sure to fully turn his head and make eye contact with me when he passed by.  I am laughing out loud just thinking about this now because not only does he still do it - but so does his son Bullet!

I should also mention that during this time period I was doing most of the training, field work, etc.  John was away from home at least 60 hours a week. Using the same orchards we train in today, I would take a trek down in the morning with Timber, Rose, and Jack and run them. That summer is when I named them "Fields of Gold."  I enjoyed that time immensely. I really was not quite sure  that I was doing things properly but it was fun.  Jack's first field trial was that fall.  He was a 12 week old puppy who slept on his dog bed next to where his mother was staked out.  I did run Timber that fall and his 4th place amateur puppy felt like gold.

Jack turned one on June 13th, 2006 and shortly thereafter was sent to Bob Paucek to be a part of the summer training program at Paucek Kennels in Buxton, Maine. This was good for Jack but hard on this heart.  We had puppies in Jacks absence which definitely kept life very busy.  We went to visit Jack when Bob said it was all right to do so.  It's important when training a dog to develop a strong bond of leadership and respect. For us to visit Jack before Bob was ready would have set Jacks training way back.  I couldn't wait to see him!  It was as if he was so proud to show off his skills, we knew he was happy and well cared for.  We left without him though.  A couple of months later it was time for Bob to take his string of dogs south for the winter and we were not going to send Jack.  One fall morning I drove over to pick him up.  I was told to go to the kennel and let him out and when I did there was a gorgeous happy grown up Jack dog who clearly was glad to see me.  He sat in the front seat on the way home and my eyes were filled with tears the entire time.

Maine's bird hunting season opened and we were so anxious to get out into the woods with Jack. I will forever treasure the memory of that first day out with him for many, many reasons.  It was one of those autumn days where the air is full of the scent of falling leaves that make a crinkly sound with each footstep.  The warmth of the sun was amazing.  The colors of the season vibrant. It was also my first real bird hunting season and I was looking forward to the experience with John.

John's first dog was named Jack.  Jack was John's childhood pet, a well loved border collie.  John shared a lot of stories with me through the years about Jack and I was not surprised when he named "our Jack" - Jack.  The one thing that still to this day touches my heart deeply is when I recall the simple expression from John as the three of us (John, Jack and I) headed into the cornfield along York River.  In a very quiet tone of voice, he simply said "I have always wanted to have a dog just like this, that I could enjoy bird hunting with.  He is everything I ever hoped for and more."  That is true now more than ever although John thinks quite highly of several of his other boys too who are pretty darn special in their own right.  He thinks a lot of his girls too in all fairness.  ('Guess I'm like the parent or gramie who always wants to give equal praise and encouragement - but this IS Jacks birthday!)

Jack has sired numerous of litters of close working gun dogs that have proven themselves to be all that their owners ever hoped for too. In reality, Jack and his progeny and grand progeny are first and foremost well loved family pets who live in the house with their family, Brittanys who love people, are social and beautiful and put smiles on the faces of those they share their life with each and every day. Each and every one of them is a true champion in the heart of those they share their life with.

Out of his many litters Jack has sired there exist several titled Junior Hunters and those working on a Senior Hunter title.  There have been many significant field trial placements. There have been show placements as well.  Although it is true we simply are not all about competition we sure are proud of their accomplishments as they continue to be seen more and more in his kids and grand kids. Jack has an easy way about him and so do most of his kids and grand kids.  When it comes to hunting style our Jack dog epitomizes the reality of a close working gun dog as we define one.  When it comes to temperament our Jack dog epitomizes the reality of a sweet, loving, gentle, intelligent and fun loving friend. 

To see John and Jack together is to see a team, to see a relationship which defies a satisfactory explanation.  It is the story of a boy and his dog. A love story if you will.  Jack has the kindest most expressive eyes.  He asks little of us other than to be loved and to have a chance to shine in the field or in the woods. When people come here to visit as they often do, Jack captures the attention of many and is not easily forgotten.  Rarely are the times when you will see John out and about in the truck without Jack (and as of late Hemi too) riding shotgun. When we can't find Jack outdoors we only have to walk over to the open door of the horse trailer. There he is found curled up in HIS dog box.  As a side note - our trailer came from Bob Paucek and is the same one that trucked Jack that summer of 2006 each morning to the bird field and back.  The space Jack claims as his own today is the same one he 'kenneled up' in 6 years ago. 

In dog years as I understand them Jack's age is the equivalent of 49 human years. A lot of white hair is coming in around his muzzle.  He's so funny and cute in all that he does. He may be the 'manly man, the stud dog extraordinaire, sire of the handsome dude' but Jack is truly a puppy at heart.  It shows in the way he approaches life.  He is one happy dog.  Happy Jack is a fitting way to describe him.  But John says it best when he affectionately refers to him with love reflected in the tone of his voice as "That's my boy! That's my bird dog!"  Indeed, a boy and his dog.

Happy 7th birthday JackDog - we love you more than you will ever know!  Happy birthday to all of your very special litter mates as well (and to your half siblings who were born on this day, 3 years later.)  xoxoxoxox