Yes, we CAN move those sheep

Well, its been 4 months since we started herding with Laurie. I've been working fly since early July. We've both learned a lot. Fly has a decent pickup of the herd and does well with fetching them to me. She is balanced now which means she stays on the opposite side of the herd from me. We are ready to learn 'come by' and 'away' now! These are long videos but a very good example of what we do at each lesson. Laurie will tell me one or two things to correct each time. Wow, this is so much fun! Be sure to listen to Laurie on the audio, some interesting comments about herding, Fly , and the first time her dog ever saw ducks (at a trial!)

Part 1 of the Lesson


Part 2 of the lesson

Yes, I DO have other hobbies!

Ok, just so you don't think that dogs and horses are my only active hobbies, here is a quilt that my daughter made. I did finish the border for her and also pieced the backing. We skyped to make decisions and I'm very happy with the final product. What do you think?

The day that changed everything!

I was just reminiscing about how Fly and I got started with sheep herding. Thought you might enjoy a video of Fly the first time she ever played with sheep. I didn't know there were two methods of training at this time, small pen vs. field, but she had a lot of fun! Now 5 months later, Fly and I can work in a 10 acre field and move sheep! yee haw its fun! I promise to get an updated video of Fly soon.

For now, here is a picture of her cuteness at home. She is being shy for the camera as you can see by her ears.

Fly and Callie playing - these are GOOD sounds you hear. 

Fly's first time EVER on sheep. March 2010

Fly working with Laurie April 23, 2010

its HOT here.

Man its been SO hot this summer. But i'm trying not to let it slow me down.

Fly and I went herding today for the first time in TWO weeks. I have been experiencing withdrawal! She did VERY well again and was balancing to me and starting to 'rate' the sheep which means she is not pushing them to me too quickly. Only a couple of times did she push so hard that the sheep went around me and I ended up on the wrong side of the flock. She also did a nice easy pick up the first time. We need to continue working on the initial 'outrun' until we get to the point that she starts by my side, goes OUT to get the sheep and fetches them to me. Fun fun!

I've also been busy quilting charity quilts to get experience with my new quilting machine. I think i'm getting better with each quilt and also trying to get more creative as well. The last quilt I did with McTavishing and I think it turned out ok!