What IS the buzz on the Hill? Holy catfish, it's our regal little Andie, winning up a storm! Andie and Dottie are doing so well. It's not often a bi-black puppy -- let alone a female black puppy, let alone a plain female black puppy -- takes a Group placement -- or even a Best of Breed -- from the classes! We are so pleased with Andie. She is a very bright, very sweet girl. Her favorite thing has always been to survey her world from a height. Whether it is a dog crate, the dogloo, the porch steps or just a cinder block, Andie will jump up just so she can queen it over the others. That must be why she got to the Group ring, so she could get up onto that platform. :>)

Not pictured, Andie has won a 3-point major as well. Holy catfish! (Haven't I just said 'Holy catfish'?) And then there's our little bi-blue fellow, bringing us . . .

Not to be outdone by his half sister, The World's Most Expensive Puppy placed at the National! It was Asher's very first show, and he showed his little silvery heart out. We were thrilled. I call Asher The World's Most Expensive Puppy because his dam nearly died during his birth -- vet $$$$! His littermates could not be saved, and his dam had to be spayed. Later, in a backyard accident, Asher broke his leg as a young puppy, more $$$. He's a survivor! Asher lives with his co-breeder, co-owner, Lisa B. of Windance Shelties. He is approaching a year old, so will stay home while he "changes clothes." He will receive lady callers soon, however.

Above are three photos taken at the National by our friend Lacey. Such a buzzy, exciting atmosphere surrounds everyone as dogs are readied for the ring! Asher caught the excitement right away -- but then, he is always up for a bit of chicken or liver. Just look at that tongue! Also, we think he has a fabulous TAIL! And it is never still. :>) Asher was shown for us by his friend and the breeder/owner of his sire, Tricia Harris of Lacewood Shelties. His class was judged on St. Patrick's Day, and on that day a group of friends all carried "lucky" green shamrock "coins" when he and the other dogs owned by the friends went into the ring. And each of our dogs came out with a ribbon! But I would like to think Asher's win was just a twinkle more than Irish luck!

And -- we are expecting the patter of small paws in midsummer. Stay tuned.