tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83494352774715759022024-02-19T00:17:35.965-08:00The Little Black Dog BlogAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-28977130118585575752014-07-29T11:32:00.001-07:002014-07-29T11:32:40.401-07:00Have Thundershirt, will travel.Have I told you about the time my dog locked my husband and I out of our car? With the keys still in the ignition? With the motor running?? Ugh. I'll get to that in just a minute. Let me give you a little back story first.<br />
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My in-laws live in the Eastern Shore of Virginia and we go visit them once or twice a year, depending on our schedules. LOVE to visit them. The pace is so slow it's almost non-existent. We get to enjoy the creek (I would call it a lake) in their backyard, the weather is usually awesome, my husband gets to completely unwind, relax and fish (which makes me incredibly happy) and we are always treated to fantastic, fresh seafood. Spending time looking at the water and emptying my mind of stress leaves me focused and grounded and usually ready to go back home and create new product - in fact I bought a TON of fun, vintage buttons yesterday that will be made into new product! But I digress. To get to this awesome destination, I do have to endure the journey.<br />
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On a <em>good</em> day, the trip is around 12 hours long. We drive because we take our dogs on vacation and my husband actually enjoys being in the car. Me? Well, let's just say 4 hours in the car is about all I can take before I start feeling antsy. In the past we have given our dogs a mild sedative (prescribed by our vet - don't freak out on me) to allow both of our dogs to travel that distance. Our boys love the <em>idea</em> of going for a ride, but after 15-20 minutes the whining and pacing starts. And that's just around town. Imagine how fun it must be after only 1 hour into the trip??? It's NOT. So in the past they were kinda drugged, which I really hated, because I hate the idea of drugging my dogs, but not as much as I hate the idea of being trapped in a SUV for over 12 hours with two frantic, pacing, whining dogs and an ever increasingly frustrated/perturbed/angry husband. You get me on this? (And did I mention that on a <strong>good</strong> day the trip took 12 hours? This has happened only once. Depending on the number of potty breaks/food stops/gas stops the trip has lasted up to <strong>15</strong> hours.) By the end of the trip, I am trying to figure out how quickly I can get a glass (or gallon) of wine and/or if the dog's sedative is safe for human consumption. <br />
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Enter Thundershirt. My very sweet hubby says that he would like to try a Thundershirt on Dyson (our most anxious boy), because he thinks it could help his anxiety in the car, and therefore we would not have to drug him. He tells me that if <em>Dyson</em> is calm, then Wyatt will be calm as well. This suggestion, although appealing to the Mommy in me that does not want her babies drugged, is terrifying to the part of me that loathes an eternally long trip in a car full of anxious critters and husband. Thundershirt also makes a spray, my well meaning hubby tells me, that has pheromones, lavender and chamomile in it that will further increase the sense of well being. He is so adamant about trying this that I relent - I mean, agree to try it. For two days prior to the trip we let Dyson wear the shirt for a short period of time to get him used to it. He really did not seem to appreciate it at first - not a good sign. And for the first few hours of the trip, I drove and the hubby actually sat in the back with the boys to keep them calm. Not impressive. <br />
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BUT..... after a while they did much better. There were still a few bouts of whining, but not as bad. They were, however, alert and active whenever we stopped for whatever reason. That's the important part - did you remember the question I asked you at the beginning of this story? We were going to change drivers. Instead of pulling over on the side of the road, I suggested that we stop at a gas station, which we did. When the hubs gets out of the driver's side - keys in ignition, car running, cell phone in the dash - I also get out to move to the driver's side - shutting the car door behind me, of course, so my very excited boys don't decide to hop out and go exploring. As I walk around to the driver's side, my 57lb bundle of love, Dyson, bounds into the front seat to meet me, jumping up and down. I tell him to get back and go to open the door, and LOCKED. What?? Did the hubby lock the door? I try the passenger door. LOCKED. The back door. LOCKED. The other two doors. ALSO LOCKED! WHAT?!?! I look at the ignition, and to my horror, the complete set of keys are in the ignition (my hubby's keys have a separate attachment that allows him to keep the motor running while taking the remainder of the keys with him - <em>so he doesn't get locked out</em>. Irony, no?) The only thing that was a comfort was the air blowing high speed on my doggies as they looked out the window at their Mommy and Daddy trying to figure out a way to get back in the car.<br />
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Approximately 40 minutes, a couple of good Samaritans, an a Virginia sheriff later, we were back in the car and on our way. Due to that fun mishap, traffic from an existing wreck on the interstate, ridiculous traffic from construction on the Hampton Road Bridge Tunnel and a crazy rainstorm, we arrived at my in-laws. Total drive time? <strong>16 1/2 hours</strong>. I was BEYOND stressed. But thanks to the Thundershirt and lavender spray - the dogs were happy and ready to play when we stopped. Are you <em>serious</em>? Guess that stuff works. <br />
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On the way back - <em>Mommy</em> may take the sedative!<br />
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Here's my Dyson, sandy and smiling after playing in the creek!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-11141278623642170312014-07-23T09:39:00.001-07:002014-07-23T09:39:50.987-07:00Where have I BEEN?Long story short, EVERYWHERE! (In my mind, that is.) New products, new directions, new interests, new HOUSE!<br />
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My husband and I <em>just finished</em> building a new house. Literally. We closed on it a week ago. It has been a crazy long process and one accompanied by a TON of changes, which spilled into my business, too. As some of you know, I fell in love with my sewing machine again. Now not just content to sew collars, I began making pillows, ornaments, etc. As is often the case with me, when I started a new project, it spurred my interest in several different directions! So I am exploring them all. AND I'm much less stressed, so I will be much more communicative! <br />
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Here's where I'll be going, and in no particular order or time frame:<br />
-cat collars<br />
-martingale collars for dogs<br />
-home furnishings<br />
-dog beds/pillows<br />
-party decorations<br />
-greeting cards<br />
-bunting<br />
-tassels and tassel garlands<br />
-dog tee pees<br />
-tutus (for dogs, maybe even babies, or <strong>myself</strong>!)<br />
- fabric flowers<br />
-basically anything DIY that looks like a lot of fun<br />
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Would you like to join me?? I hope so! And I'd love to hear about projects that are keeping you interested! In the meantime, here are a few pics of the new cat collars you can find in my shop! (You can also get them made into collars for mini dogs, just let me know!)<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-24658239226143798122013-04-24T11:45:00.001-07:002013-04-24T11:45:25.595-07:00Learning curve - and a giveaway!Guess what I've been working on??? Accessories! I've been wanting to add bow ties, flowers and harnesses for a while, but have been having a hard time getting started. Finding the right pattern, making it work for you, and then <em>learning how</em> to make the new product is a challenge that takes me out of my comfort zone. (Then, of course, you begin to start to <em>master</em> making the product, another fun challenge!) I started working on a step in harness, but after spending the afternoon creating it - didn't like it at all! LOL So back to the drawing board (or cutting board, rather) for that one. Two more patterns have been ordered, so we'll see which one feels better!<br />
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Working in my first big craft show diverted my energy away from new products, but I have ventured out of the comfort zone again, this time with the bow ties. Didn't exactly love the first one - but the more I stuck to it, the more comfortable it became. I am determined to have bow ties and flowers at the next show, in addition to the collars! Growth can feel a little stressful and uncomfortable, but I know it will be worth it! Here's a sneak peek, my friends, of what will be available in the shop next week! Only three patterns so far, but many more are coming. The more I make, the more I want to make - guess I should step out of the comfort zone more often, eh? <br />
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What do you think, friends? What kinds of patterns would you like to see for your pups? More stripes? Solid colors? Dots? Fancy fabrics (like satins or silks) for weddings? Seersucker? Comment with your suggestions, and you could win one for your pup! Winner chosen May 10! Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-79429857781188937012013-04-17T20:32:00.000-07:002013-04-17T20:32:19.557-07:00Dog collars, chevron and ElvisFriends! Do you know how many blogs I have written in my mind over the last month? A ton. I think of you guys often - wanting to tell you how things are going, sharing the latest exploits of my crazy critters. <br />
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Let me tell you where I've been - I've been hitting the craft fair circuit!! Oh my goodness - it seriously is so much fun. Granted, it is also a <strong>ton</strong> of work, and I have been rather stressed, but it's been a great time. I am going to make sure to tell you all where I will be next, so you all can come and say hello!<br />
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This past weekend, I participated in a great venue called <strong>Sweet Tea and Shopping</strong>, held at Bottom View Farm in Portland, TN. Sooooo amazing! I truly felt like I stepped into the magazine "Where Women Create" (if you don't know about that magazine, RUN, don't walk to your local bookstore - it's truly inspiring). I was surrounded by amazing, talented women, and got a ton of ideas about how to decorate my booth! I learn something new <strong>every</strong> time..... Here are some pics from my booth:<br />
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Can you believe all this came from falling in love with my sewing machine again??</div>
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Loving life, my friends! The next show will be May 11, at the Factory at Franklin - it's the Mother's and Daughters Cupcakes and Tea event. Lots of shopping and fun to be had by all. Can't wait to show you pics from that show!</div>
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(Oh, and by the way, YES, I have fallen in love with chevron - like everyone else - and the "Elvis" is the name of my new doggie pupcake! Oat flour, bananas, carob chips and peanut butter!)</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-36269111008950127632013-03-20T07:16:00.001-07:002013-03-20T07:17:33.022-07:00Flash Sale on my etsy shop today only! (3/20)Friends, I KNOW I haven't posted here in a little bit, but I have been thinking about you!! New pics are coming soon to show what I've been working on! I have been having a WONDERFUL time getting ready for, and participating in craft shows!! Can't wait to show you some pics. :)<br />
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In the meantime, here's a one day sale on my etsy shop to celebrate the first day of Spring!! FINALLY!!<br />
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Today, enter coupon code SPRING20 at checkout to receive 20% off your total purchase. Give your dogs a big hug, and maybe a new collar or all natural dog treats for Spring! :)<br />
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And if you are in the Murfreesboro, TN area - come by and see me Saturday, 3/23 at the Canonsburgh Yard Sale!! I'll have dog treats, collars and leashes for sale! :)<br />
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HAPPY SPRING!!!<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/lbdboutique">https://www.etsy.com/shop/lbdboutique</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-61808081780439900732013-02-16T10:01:00.000-08:002013-02-16T10:01:49.644-08:00Bake your (dog's) vegetables!Do you bake for your doggies?? I do. When I first started my business, Little Black Dog Boutique, I started out baking all natural and organic dog treats for my dogs. I'm relatively new to being a dog parent, and when I started finding out all of the stuff that dogs weren't supposed to eat, and/or were not the best for our dogs to eat, I decided to pay attention to what was in the food my dogs were consuming.<br />
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Now don't get me wrong, there are plenty of good dog treats out there, and there are even more healthy choices now - but if you are so inclined, you can make your own doggie treats in your own kitchen! It'll save you some money AND you'll be able to control the ingredients. It's a win-win!<br />
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I bought two dog cookbooks to start, but I also alter recipes that I find to suit the dogs. I try not to let them have salt, sugar or corn in ANY of the recipes. All natural works best for me. I've even made some treats gluten free, since some dogs have gluten sensitivities - mine do not, thankfully, but be aware of what works best for your pup! The two cookbooks that started me on my journey are:"the organic dog biscuit cookbook" from the Bubba Rose Biscuit Company and "Three Dog Bakery Cookbook" by Dan Dye and Mark Beckloff. (Both are available on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/">www.amazon.com</a>.)<br />
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My dogs love everything I have cooked them, but the recipe that almost made them fight each other was for the Carrot Cake, which I found in "the organic dog biscuit cookbook". I actually taste everything I make - if I wouldn't eat it, I don't serve it to my dogs! This cake was actually so good that I ate one fresh out of the oven. Since it uses all organic, "human" ingredients - you could even make it for yourself! lol (Or perhaps a diabetic friend or relative.) Copyright laws prohibit me from publishing the recipe, but if you email me I bet I could help you figure it out...... ;)<br />
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Try something fun! Find a recipe for yourself and get in the kitchen - I bet your fur babies would LOVE it - even if it doesn't look pretty, or you overcook it. You don't have to be an award winning chef to make treats your pups would love. :) Bone apetit! <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-75802740762172100692013-02-10T15:08:00.000-08:002013-02-10T15:08:03.612-08:00Champagne wishes, Puppy Chow dreams...If you haven't been a reader of any of my earlier blogs, then you probably don't know that I am a BIG supporter of rescuing/adopting dogs. Don't misunderstand me - I love ALL dogs, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with buying your dog from a reputable breeder - I just have a soft spot for those that have been abandoned and/or need a second chance. Both of our dogs are rescue dogs and we hope to be adding to that number within a few months. Which brings me to yesterday. <br />
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<em>Friday</em>, actually, was when the seed was planted that started the thought process that had the most potential for trouble. My husband, B, was looking on <a href="http://www.petharbor.com/">www.petharbor.com</a> (for those of you who <em>also</em> might want to adopt....), finding some buddies that were available at our local shelter. That's when I saw the Great Pyrenees puppy. Ok - seriously - it was the cutest puppy, <em>ever</em>. <strong>Must. Have. Great Pyr Puppy</strong>. I figured the chance for me to get said puppy was a long shot, since we really only have enough room for a third dog if we could get one that fits in a cereal bowl, but I figured I would make it work, right? Where there's a will, there's a way. And I <strong>will</strong> have a Great Pyrenees one day...... but I digress.<br />
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All Saturday morning, I am thinking about this puppy. My logical mind was telling me not to get my hopes up, because we don't have the room for a dog you can ride to the grocery store, but my heart is telling me that I am coming home with this dog! (You see, we don't have the best luck at the animal shelter. Both my husband and I love dogs. A lot. One day we were going to drop by very quickly on the way to a vineyard and visit the dogs. I had <strong>emphatically</strong> told my husband I was not ready for another dog and was really going over there to humor him. Several hours later we came home - not with a bottle or two of wine, but with this:<br />
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Long story short, we go to the shelter yesterday, I am very expectantly ready to fall in love with my new dog, and........ nothing. He was already gone. Adopted. I was <strong>crushed</strong>. Of course, there were another 20 dogs that I would have gladly given a home - and would love to, one of these days. More and more I want a home with a TON of land, so that I can give a home to a pack of awesome dogs that we were able to save from being destroyed, and shower them with love. </div>
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If anyone wants to donate several acres of land in middle Tennessee to the cause, let me know..... I guess until then, there's the lottery. </div>
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GO ADOPT A DOG!!! Or at least give yours a hug. :)</div>
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See ya next time.....</div>
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~RJC</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-63888933623779718202013-02-01T08:05:00.003-08:002013-02-01T08:07:09.589-08:00FEBRUARY GIVEAWAY!! Showin' some love! :)What are you getting your pup for Valentine's Day? <br />
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How would you like to WIN 1 pound of these yummy, handmade, all natural peanut butter cookies? YOU CAN!<br />
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All you need to do is tell us all why you love your dogs, and you will be entered into the contest! I will choose a winner at random on February 14 and will announce it here.<br />
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Can't wait? Would you like to purchase your own cookies for your beloved buddy? You may do so at my etsy site, and I'll lovingly make these cookies for you & get 'em shipped off! Here is the link to my shop: <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/92176988/handmade-gourmet-dog-cookies-frosted">https://www.etsy.com/listing/92176988/handmade-gourmet-dog-cookies-frosted</a><br />
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So don't wait! Tell us all how wonderful your pup is, and good luck! :)<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-42883051997828244772013-01-30T20:50:00.000-08:002013-01-30T20:50:47.298-08:00I've been gone for a while........ but now I'm back!<br />
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Ever had those times in your life where you felt life taking you in a different direction..... so you follow that path..... only to find yourself back where you started?? Welcome to my world! :)<br />
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As some of you know, I have a business on etsy called Little Black Dog Boutique. I was baking all natural doggie treats, getting my poor babies fat as taste testers, then realized I was in love with my sewing machine again! I started making dog collars and leashes. Then blogging. Then tweeting. Then facebooking. Somewhere along the line of "promoting" I became a tad burnt out. Been there? I started doing direct sales and the path started moving in a different direction......<br />
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Direct sales can be a ton of fun, don't get me wrong! (In fact, I am still involved in a company called Blessings Unlimited, which I love. Email me if you're curious... lol) The path, however, didn't feel true. Not a bad path or a wrong path, mind you, but it felt like I was taking a long way to get where I wanted to go. Not exactly the most fulfilling path. <br />
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Still with me?<br />
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Enter a sweet woman with a charity and a love for my collars who out of the blue asks me if I would like to participate in a vendor/craft show. Sure, I say - but which would you rather have - the direct sales company or my dog collars? She allows me to pick. I pick the collars. Great choice. :)<br />
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The collars go over like gang busters. I sell quite a few more on my etsy site over the Christmas holiday. And I LOVED being involved in the craft show! So much so, that I agree to take part in her show this year - and start looking for more to be involved in. My creative spark is re-ignited. I thought up a TON of new ideas to add to my shop (slowly......) and am back expressing myself, sharing stories and doggie love along the way. <br />
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I guess that brings me back to where I started, eh? Well..... be talking to you again soon. Please forgive my absence, it will not be near as long until you hear from me again. In the meantime, jog on over to Facebook, if you will, and "like" my page. I'll be operating a lot of giveaways and exclusive discounts to my shop from there. I'll also be posting fun videos and pics to make you smile. My facebook page is <a href="http://www.facebook.com/lbdogboutique">www.facebook.com/lbdogboutique</a>. You can also catch me being a twit @lbdogboutique. <br />
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I'd love to hear from you! Have a fun dog story or pic to share? Let's hear it. :) See you soon....Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-72717072239439539992012-05-30T12:35:00.001-07:002012-05-30T12:35:20.884-07:00The ice cream man is coming!When I was younger, nothing said "summer!" like the the arrival of the ice cream man. When I heard that carnival-like calliope of children's music from blocks away, the desperate hurried scramble for money and my parent's permission would begin. What is more fun than a push-up? There's nothing like orange sherbet on a stick. While I am a grown woman now and can keep ice cream in my own freezer, the sound of the ice cream man still makes me smile.<br />
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Evidently it makes my boys happy, too!<br />
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My dogs were taking naps - Wyatt on the couch, Dyson on the floor. When they heard the sound of the ice cream man approaching, they both perked up and looked outside - Dyson even jumping on the couch to look outside! I'm sure it was the happy music that got their attention, since they are not familiar with the ice cream man. <em>Or are they more clever than even I know??</em> They <strong>do</strong> love their peanut butter puppy ice cream.......<br />
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I heard on the radio once that someone came up with the idea of an ice cream truck for dogs - it is a little truck that travels to bark parks and sells doggie ice cream and treats. Seriously - why didn't I think of that?? What an awesome idea!<br />
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Enjoy your summer day! Have some ice cream. Maybe even give your buddies a taste!<br />
RobinAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-23040692765634683362012-05-29T12:42:00.002-07:002012-05-29T12:50:07.198-07:00Unconditional loveMore and more I am noticing beautiful stories, links, pictures, etc about dogs. <strong>We love our dogs, don't we????</strong> And why not? They love us so much. They <strong>give</strong> us so much. In fact, they give us everything they have. Every ounce of their being. Is there anything more joyous than having a happy dog greet you upon your return home? Let's be honest, if your dogs are <em>anything</em> like my dogs, then they will greet you with a huge smile and tail wagging after you return from using the bathroom or checking the mail - I really don't have to be gone for very long. They just love their people. <br />
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I am convinced that dogs are a gift from God. They love us all day, every day, unconditionally. If we are nice to them, they love us. If we're mean and mistreat them (because, unfortunately, not all dog owners are good dog owners), they still love us. If we're sick, they love us. Been out in the yard in the middle of the day during the summer doing yard work and smell like it? Yep - they love us then, too. In fact, can you <strong>ever</strong> think of a time when they don't act like they love us? Probably not. And if you can, then my guess it was a rare occasion. (My dog, Wyatt, acted like he didn't care for my husband and I for a day or two when we brought a new dog home. He got over it.) <br />
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You know what? God is like that, too. He loves you unconditionally. We, as people, put conditions on <em>everything</em>, even those we love the most. It's really hard sometimes to understand that someone can love us even when we don't earn it, <em>especially</em> when we are stinky and mean and miserable. Perhaps that is one of the reasons why He gave us dogs - to show us what true, unconditional love looks like. I hope the next time you see your dog, and he/she smiles at you, that you feel like it's a big ole hug from God himself. Feels good, doesn't it? Stand a little taller. Smile. YOU ARE LOVED!!!<br />
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Every once in a while I'm gonna share with you how my dogs have changed my life; how they've taught me about God and about myself. I hope you'll come on this journey with me! And share how your dogs have impacted you, too.......<br />
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Have a wonderful afternoon, friends!<br />
RobinAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-54427465817959366252012-05-09T13:49:00.000-07:002012-05-09T13:53:31.894-07:00I'm a mom, too!Ok, no, I don't have human children. <br />
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No, I didn't give birth.<br />
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Yes, I adopted. Dogs. From a shelter.<br />
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But YES, I consider myself a mom. I wash them (albeit with a bit of difficulty), feed them, sometimes clothe them, give them special treats. I worry about them, take care of them when they are sick, reward them when they do a good job, discipline them when they do not. I teach them to respect other people and animals, hug them, let them sleep in my bed (my smaller dog, anyway) and protect them from harm. I love them like they are my children and treat them as such.(Harsh truth be told, my dogs behave better than some children I've seen - I'm just sayin'........)<br />
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Sound like you, too? Yes, I AM one of <em>those</em> people who consider their pets as part of the family. And you know what? I'm darn proud of it, too! Feel left out of all the Hallmark card moments that seem to be happening? Well, I'm here to tell ya - I love you!! Happy Mother's Day! You are valuable and doing a good job! :)<br />
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Here's my Mother's Day gift - for this weekend when you go to my shop, you will receive free shipping when you enter coupon code "dogmom" at checkout. This is good through Monday. And going forward, I will try to have "Dog Mom Monday" - where I will feature fun shops on etsy that are a "treat" to other dog moms!<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lbdboutique">http://www.etsy.com/shop/lbdboutique</a><br />
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Share your thoughts with me, Moms! You can talk to me about your doggies all day.... (In fact, I'd love to hear your stories!)<br />
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Have a great day, ya'll! And thanks for showing love to your dogs! <br />
RobinAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-50289154282249351522012-05-03T21:35:00.001-07:002012-05-04T21:01:21.368-07:00Who rescued who?His name is Dyson, and I believe I fell in love with him the minute I saw him. Before I even had the chance to interact with him, I knew he was going to be my dog. This rescue, however, didn't even start with him.<br />
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It started with Wyatt.<br />
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Three and a half years ago my then boyfriend, Berry, and I were at P.A.W.S., looking for a dog. My husband and his family have always been dog people. Me - not so much. Not that I disliked them, mind you, I just didn't grow up around them. My comfort level was very low and I think I was a little nervous around them. Months before, Berry adopted a dog while I was on vacation and called me to tell me he had bought a puppy - a beautiful brindle boxer. We named her Stanzie. She lived with Berry for only a short time, unfortunately. She contracted Parvo from the vet recommended by the pound and we lost her 10 days later. Berry was devastated. I was saddened, but hadn't had the chance to bond with her as much as Berry. A few months later he was ready for another dog. So this is where you find the two of us, at P.A.W.S.<br />
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We looked and played with several sweet dogs, but then we saw "Baby", as he was called at the time. Dachshund-chihuahua mix, and the cutest thing I'd ever seen. Trouble was - he wasn't available to be adopted until the next day. We couldn't even take him out of the cage to <strong>play</strong> with him until the next day. But we kept coming back around to him, and he stole my heart. "Berry, come back here tomorrow and <strong>get my dog.</strong>" And he did. Renamed Wyatt, it took a long time for me to get used to how our dating life changed - how our whole lives changed. I wasn't used to dogs. I was a little like Lucy from Peanuts - you know- EEK!! DOG GERMS!! I washed my hands a lot. Wouldn't let him near my mouth. Wouldn't let him on the bed. But little by little, he changed me. Softened me. Made me see what unconditional love <em>really</em> looked like, up close. Pretty soon he became "my dog" - followed me everywhere I went, curled up on my lap, comforted Mommy when I was feeling sad or sick. I even thought about using him as a ring bearer in our wedding!</div>
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I loved Wyatt (and by now dogs in general) so much I named the next dog we would have - before we even talked about adopting another.<br />
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Enter Dyson. <br />
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Berry and I both had the day off and decided - <em>just on a whim, mind you</em> - to stop by P.A.W.S. and look at the doggies before heading off to a vineyard for the afternoon. We looked at several, and were in the process of walking a cute little buddy that we were debating on purchasing. He was cute. He had potential. We were on the fence. I'd figure we'd think about him, but would probably be back the next day to get him. That's when I saw someone else walking the cutest little black ball of fur I'd ever seen. When we came back inside I looked and looked for him - no puppy! I was so bummed - I told Berry that there was a dog I had wished we could have seen, but I guessed he was in the process of being adopted. Then lo and behold, on our way out - there he was! Just in a cage outside of the main room. He'd only been dropped off a day or two before. He was shy even as a puppy, but once I got him out and held him - well, you know how <strong>that</strong> ended.<br />
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Dyson is like my special needs child. He is very nervous around strangers. He hates change. He barks at everything and everyone - even those he knows until he figures out they're his friends. We can't kennel him and have a hard time taking him to the vet - so we don't really travel much. You'd think he was aggressive if you didn't know him, but he's just terrified of you, and barks for his own protection. We went through one hip reconstruction last year, which involved me hand feeding him and helping him drink, leg rehab & me carrying him up and down our stairs (17 of them, I counted <strong>every</strong> time) to help him go to the bathroom - did I mention he was 45 lbs at the time? - and Berry sleeping on the floor with him so he wouldn't get up and try to walk away, thus injuring himself. Eventually we'll have to do it again, only on the other side (thank God we now live in a duplex - only 3 steps to get outside!!). He brings out impatience in people and he's the tether that keeps me tied down. <strong>And I thank God for him every day. </strong><br />
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I get emotional when I think about that dog - I know he was meant for me, <em>for us</em>, to love. Both of my dogs have shown me what is most important in life. Yep, my clothes have dog hair on them - oh well. My dogs now give Mommy kisses and sleep in the bed. I'll never have that chic, oh-so-turned out home that looks immaculate. That's what slip covers are for, right? I play more, I <strong>smile</strong> more, I laugh more, and I force myself to stop what I'm doing and spend time outside with my buddies. They've changed my life. <em>They</em> rescued <em>me</em>. I don't really feel the need to be a "type A" person anymore - there's too much joy to be had hanging with my boys. And yes, I do treat them like my kids. They're spoiled. They sit on the couch. If you don't want to be loved on by dogs, you're in the wrong house. <br />
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Don't tell my hubby - but I'm already thinking about names for the next one..... ;)<br />
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Have a blessed day, friends! <br />
Robin<br />
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(Dyson is a big boy now....)<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-48205931727599753102012-04-20T08:03:00.000-07:002012-04-20T08:03:32.366-07:00"YARD SALE" at my shop!Folks, it is that time of year - yard sale season! LOL I've really never been one for yard-saling, but my husband and I had one about a month ago, and I had so much fun! Ok, the work involved getting everything ready for the sale wasn't so much fun, it left my house a wreck for awhile and we got rained out (seriously, we did), but I had a great time! We'll be doing it again next week to try to get rid of everything that didn't make it out the door the first time! <br />
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So, to celebrate the fun of the yard sale, AND the fact that I love being able to play with my doggies in our yard, I'm having a virtual sale in my store. All collars, regardless of the size, are $7.50 and all leashes are $12.50 - that's half off the normal price! You can have a custom set for only $20 - how awesome is that?? Stock up now on your favorite collars or get some for gifts for the dog lovers in your life!<br />
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FRIDAY, 4/20 - SUNDAY 4/22 - Don't miss it!! <br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lbdboutique">http://www.etsy.com/shop/lbdboutique</a><br />
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Hope all of you have a rockin' weekend!<br />
RobinAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-53317359785513321082012-04-12T11:03:00.000-07:002012-04-12T11:03:35.019-07:00The Liebster Blog AwardThank you so much, Amy from fAveritte creations, for nominating me for the Liebster Blog Award!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqMgAKaGVqkebgX9SEBKImufg6bBeh3Z2Qa42SUObOKa6hifvTyx0B6jpi3jpsuaZCKOvGcqylYadxqHh4k7sNR8vO35MdnaOovSjvl-2LZxv4TKBQEvawiR70CNxKBKyniChUPF3rJJg/s1600/Liebster+blog.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_mn2n8w="2" height="85" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqMgAKaGVqkebgX9SEBKImufg6bBeh3Z2Qa42SUObOKa6hifvTyx0B6jpi3jpsuaZCKOvGcqylYadxqHh4k7sNR8vO35MdnaOovSjvl-2LZxv4TKBQEvawiR70CNxKBKyniChUPF3rJJg/s320/Liebster+blog.png" width="228" /></a><br />
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If none of you has seen fAveritte creations on etsy - please check it out! She has a great shop, and a seriously cute blog! (I mean <strong>seriously</strong> cute blog - I have blog envy!) Check it out - <a href="http://faverittecreations.blogspot.com/">http://faverittecreations.blogspot.com/</a><br />
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I'm <strong>very </strong>new to the blogging world, but from what I understand, this is an awesome way to promote your blog and possibly meet other cool and creative bloggers. Well, I'm so happy to pass it on to 5 other bloggers! It is awarded to bloggers with less than 200 followers, and this is how it works:<br />
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1. Post the award on your blog<br />
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2. Show thanks to the one who chose you by linking back to them<br />
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3. Reveal your 5 picks for the award and let them know<br />
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4. Kick back, give yourself a pat on the back, and feel the love from the other supportive bloggers in the blogosphere<br />
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5. Share the love, love, love!<br />
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AND THE AWARDS GO TO:<br />
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My favorite girls, Erin and Jenny at Sunday Sisters! <a href="http://sundaysisters.blogspot.com/">http://sundaysisters.blogspot.com/</a><br />
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Vegan cosmetics from Beaute Crue! <a href="http://beautecrue.blogspot.com/">http://beautecrue.blogspot.com/</a><br />
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Dianne at Dianne's Creative Place! <a href="http://www.diannescreativeplace.blogspot.com/">http://www.diannescreativeplace.blogspot.com/</a><br />
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Candles, glass and more at Anhoki's Place! <a href="http://anhoki.blogspot.com/">http://anhoki.blogspot.com/</a><br />
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Sharmon at Sharm Simple Pleasures! <a href="http://flowerpower-sharmon.blogspot.com/">http://flowerpower-sharmon.blogspot.com/</a><br />
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Congratulations, everyone! Have a great week!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-29282954878699522582012-04-06T20:21:00.000-07:002012-04-06T20:21:46.673-07:00Thank you, Easter Bunny! Bok! Bok!(Yes, that line is from an Easter candy commercial, in case you think I may have lost my mind.....)<br />
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I love Easter, for many reasons. It's a wonderful spiritual holiday for me (and many) first and foremost, but on a completely different note you also have some pretty awesome candy. My favorite candy of all time is a Reese's peanut butter egg, but their commercials aren't half as funny as the Cadbury creme egg's. What does this have to do with dogs, you might ask? Well, I'm getting there.....<br />
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We moved to a duplex about 6 weeks ago. The dogs absolutely love it, because we now have a huge yard that backs up against a tree line, and plenty of little woodland creatures like to scamper about. Lately, the boys have been seeing a lot of (wait for it, wait for it......)<strong> bunnies</strong>. I have no idea where they're coming from, but they seem to love those trees. And my dogs LOVE the bunnies. Wyatt always seems to notice them first, and will bolt after them like a bat out of Hell. Dyson just runs after Wyatt - he doesn't want to miss out on whatever his brother has found! They never catch any - I think it would scare them if they did - but they <strong>love</strong> the chase!<br />
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Well, bunnies are making everybody happy this weekend - whether the real thing or a candy version. Hope all ya'll have a wonderful weekend, too!<br />
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RobinAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-75879459072084236782012-04-02T10:36:00.000-07:002012-04-02T10:36:22.544-07:00March contest winner!Congratulations to AnneGTS - she's the winner of the March doggie collar giveaway! While it's not $640 million, it's fun and free! LOL<br />
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Happy April to all of you, my friends - in a few days I'll announce the contest for April for all of you subscribing members!<br />
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Did any of you play an "April Fool's" joke on your furry friends??? Let's hear about it!<br />
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Have a great day, friends!<br />
RobinAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-7689298189358653382012-03-20T12:27:00.000-07:002012-03-20T12:27:34.470-07:00If I knew you were coming..... part 2Well friends, you'll soon find out that my mind jumps around from project to project - maybe I have a form of "Craft ADD"?? Or maybe my mind is working overtime on new, fun stuff to make and enjoy? Maybe a combo of the two. While I am currently working on my textiles line that is being slowly unveiled for the public this Friday, I didn't want to forget the fun cakes I have been working on for the the past few weeks! Believe me, my boys have enjoyed the cake experiments!<br />
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As of today, I will have three "pupcake" flavors available for purchase: banana/carob chip, carrot and carob. All are frosted with a yummy cream cheese or carob cream cheese frosting (and yes, I know because I have tasted them myself...) - some even decorated with carob chips. Currently you may buy the cupcakes on etsy and have them shipped to you - perfect for any time you want to celebrate with your furry friends! If you are in the Nashville area - you may also order them at Scentaments in Goodlettsville starting Friday. If you live in the Murfreesboro, TN area......well, I might even deliver some pupcakes to ya, if you're nice! lol<br />
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And yes, even without any salt, sugar, corn or preservatives, the carrot cake is AWESOME! I ate a couple myself..... All natural stuff for our friends, ya'll - they deserve it! And my boys fight over some cake, let me tell ya. <br />
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Here's a pic of the carrot cupcakes & the banana/carob chip cupcakes and a link in case you feel like ordering some....<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hope all of you enjoy this beautiful first day of Spring!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Take care, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Robin</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-22350521801810638952012-03-14T12:26:00.000-07:002012-03-14T12:26:41.792-07:00Celebrate good times, come on!Hey friends! Had <strong>THE MOST</strong> encouraging phone call today! Spoke to Vickie Martin, the owner of Scentaments Floral Design, a great store in Goodlettsville, TN. Currently my doggie treats are available for purchase in her store - she is the first person who has supported The Little Black Dog Boutique in her own retail store, and I am very grateful for her support! (Don't get me wrong - there are <em>several</em> people that have been instrumental in promoting LBDBoutique - and I appreciate them a bunch, too!) <em>Anyway</em>, back to the phone call......<br />
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What I didn't know is that she used to be a dog handler/trainer for the AKC (American Kennel Club), and her love for doggies and training them has come back to the point where she can't deny it anymore - she will start training again this month! We talked dogs and product and long story short - Scentaments will start carrying my textiles line, which, if you checked out my last post, is "under construction" - no pun intended. So..... if you are in the Nashville/Goodlettsville area, there will be a store that carries my dog collars, dog leashes and soon to be developed dog apparel and bedding/pillows!!! Hallelujah! <br />
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I'm so excited! I will see her on Friday to pick out where in her shop my products will be, and then I'll be making fun dog stuff over the weekend to sell in my new space! How awesome is that??? :DAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-36329477315907005342012-03-12T10:28:00.000-07:002012-03-12T10:28:50.778-07:00Falling in love again....I know, this sounds like an odd title for a doggie blog, right? But I'm so excited - I've fallen in love with my sewing machine again! <br />
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When I was younger I dreamt that I would be a fashion designer and learned to sew at a fairly early age. My grandmother sewed (still does, actually), my mother sewed and I loved it too. I went to college as a fashion merchandising major and LOVED all of my classes that dealt with "construction" - actually sewing and creating garments. Instead of design I went into retail, and away went my sewing machine (and any time I would have spent on it). <br />
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Fast forward to a few years later, and my creative side kept calling to me. Ever get that sickened feeling when you see someone doing something you wish you could be doing? I felt that way any time I walked back into a craft/fabric store. Along comes my idea for my "Little Black Dog Boutique"! The textile side (collars, leashes, bedding and clothes) was going to join my treats, eventually, but I'll be honest - it's been about 10 years since I used my sewing machine in college! I even bought a machine <em>several</em> years ago, but it stayed in it's box, being carried around from place to place until I had the nerve to start sewing again. Threading my machine was actually <strong>intimidating</strong>. But........<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdoKg4XFOJQDIEv6gMQJwlQuTo-fgDX5dCO5Fj4dm_s5J0O9UCRnJN7fdjHlb9FtzeRur95q5pLqfEOD9q8vY4FBn_31m8qjRI423d117yUzrzogOlvKLdk2WHv3AvZcdq5ZwfBKD9rDTH/s1600/IMAG0132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdoKg4XFOJQDIEv6gMQJwlQuTo-fgDX5dCO5Fj4dm_s5J0O9UCRnJN7fdjHlb9FtzeRur95q5pLqfEOD9q8vY4FBn_31m8qjRI423d117yUzrzogOlvKLdk2WHv3AvZcdq5ZwfBKD9rDTH/s320/IMAG0132.jpg" width="191" /></a></div><strong>I LOVE IT!!!! </strong><em>Again. </em>Made a few dog collars this weekend that will be sold in the store, and now I feel like the addiction has been fed - I want to sew more, more, more! What a joy. It has taken me a little while to get back into the swing of things, and I made a few mistakes, but I haven't had this much fun in a while. For March the giveaway to one of you subscribers/members will be one of these fun dog collars! And check out my store on etsy later this week for more collars and leashes to come! (My etsy store address is <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lbdboutique">www.etsy.com/shop/lbdboutique</a>)<br />
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Have fun and be creative today!<br />
RobinAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-18436745865944321902012-03-01T11:38:00.000-08:002012-03-01T11:38:27.053-08:00If I knew you were coming...I'd have baked a cake! Actually, I am baking cake today - for my buddies! I'll be introducing a line of doggie celebration cakes very, very soon - stay tuned! So far I've made a banana/ carob chip cake with carob cream cheese frosting that the boys LOVE. Today, I think the flavor is...... carrot! I'll let ya know how things go! <br />
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Have you ever made a cake for your pup? Anything special that you do for your doggies to celebrate birthdays or other milestones? Share your stories and pics!<br />
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Woof! (Or "Have a great day!")<br />
RobinAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-4719027639034726572012-02-29T11:47:00.000-08:002012-02-29T11:47:30.471-08:00Stormy weather & rescue pupsIt's that time of year again - storm season. Personally, I love the idea of a rainy day spent on the couch with a cup of coffee, tea or hot chocolate (depending on my mood) and a good book. After the addition of my two sons to the mix, and the propensity for tornadoes to run through the mid state area, severe weather is now something I don't look forward to.<br />
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My dogs don't love severe weather! Dyson, in particular, is very skittish when he hears strong winds and thunder. Wyatt, who always wants to be as close to mama as possible on a good day, becomes even more clingy. Not to say that I blame them, but as we all know, our dogs are very intuitive - so if I look nervous, they become even more so. It's up to me to keep them calm, so I get my "tornado plan" together - where will we go in the house if we encounter a tornado warning? Do I have some water/my cell phone/blankets/their leads handy and in a convenient place? It's helpful to have a plan of attack for ALL of the members of your family, including your four legged ones!<br />
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Now, unfortunately, many of our communities will fall victim to severe weather. Just today we hear of tornadoes damaging homes and buildings in Missouri, Illinois and Indiana. Friends - PLEASE help each other! And let's not forget that many families had pets - be on the lookout for stray animals that might have been displaced due to severe weather. If possible, offer them shelter or take them to a rescue location. And always, if in the position to buy yourself or your family a new friend, check out the shelters and rescue facilities in your area. Initially it may look like you rescued your pup (or kitty), but they usually return the favor and rescue you in return....<br />
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How do you keep your doggies feeling secure during nasty weather?<br />
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Have a safe afternoon, friends, and show some love to your dogs today!<br />
RobinAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-40212102550157527092012-02-28T13:45:00.003-08:002012-02-28T14:07:18.925-08:00I love my buddies!<blockquote><blockquote>"He is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog.<br />
You are his life, his love, his leader.<br />
He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart.<br />
You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion."<br />
-Unknown</blockquote></blockquote>Is this not the best?? It's so true! Make sure you give your dog(s) lots of love today - they will always return the favor!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-1954056811406284752012-02-14T11:23:00.000-08:002012-02-14T11:23:25.337-08:00Happy Valentine's Day, Friends!Howdy, all! Today is a little gloomy and chilly, so I'm giving myself the day to hang with my babies and make them a cake! I'll show ya'll the pics when I'm done! Hope all of you have a wonderful Valentine's day, and remember that even if you don't have a sweetie right now - your pups love you with 100% of their being, 100% of the time!! Let your doggie give you a big, fat kiss! <br />
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To give all of <em>you</em> some Valentine love, I'm giving you a discount on all goodies in my etsy shop, til the end of the week! To view my shop, go to <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lbdboutique">www.etsy.com/shop/lbdboutique</a>. Enter in coupon code<strong> <span style="color: #660000;">vday15</span></strong> to receive 15% off your order of goodies! You can spoil your doggies AND save money at the same time! I'd love to bake something yummy for your dogs.<br />
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So what are <strong>you</strong> doing for Valentine's day? Anything special for your pups? Feel free to share stories and pics!<br />
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Have a great day, friends!<br />
RobinAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8349435277471575902.post-17245288849626473992012-02-13T13:33:00.002-08:002012-02-13T13:33:26.854-08:00I'm a twit!!Yes, my friends, I have started a twitter account! Follow me on twitter @LBDogBoutique!!<br />
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Woof!! Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16141151502999903128noreply@blogger.com0