Yesterday included a trip to town for the basics... Several bags of dog food, another couple bags of dog treats, a few bags of shavings, a bunch of batteries, another tub to add to the mix for water to be stored in each bathtub, some propane and of course a few of my favorite non perishable's. Worse case scenario, as far as water goes, I'm pretty sure from the forecast available, Lake Irma will once again be topped up. I prefer the dogs not go there but it's proven difficult to keep them out of it. Availability of fresh water or not! So that water, though I'm sure not the best quality would be better than none and would likely have to suffice for Rhyzja. All buckets and troughs outside will be full prior to Monday... or is it Wednesday now? And in the end, hopefully, all prep will be for not... the storm will miraculously make a sudden turn in the Atlantic and affect none of us! To be honest, I still have work to do... I'm sort of laying low, waiting to decide how much effort I want to put into securing things that could become projectile.
Did I forget anything?
Originally, when I first looked at the approaching storm, once making landfall, it appeared progress would bring it directly over the top of me. Always nice to have some buffer miles... but still didn't give me an easy feeling. If it weren't for the trees! So many trees!
Now though, it appears it's projected path has taken a southward turn and I'm much more worried about some of you than for myself. It comes with the territory I guess, living in Florida and all we can do is set ourselves up to be as safe as possible. If that means leaving the homestead that's what it means. While I hope to get all pups out on their expected departure date, I realize the storm could place a monkey wrench in things for a few of us. Hopefully that wrench won't include my plans going forward.
I've got to admit, I was freaking out a bit yesterday after glancing at my calendar. I flipped to September and said, oh no!!! it's very likely that Tuesday cropping appointment is going to happen. Later I realized the first appointment isn't until Thursday the 5th. The Tuesday appointment, one of the two original I had scheduled but cancelled, in Georgia. Phew!!! Even so... I have some concerns about this storm stalling and affecting our Thursday the 5th appointment! My fingers remain crossed!!! Lets all hope for a speedy exit of Hurricane Dorian!!!
The pups are doing great! Have had some pretty good weather! Finally!!! The other day, a few of them organized their own adventure. Had them penned up in the small dog run outside the mud room while I was cleaning their indoor habitat. They enjoyed their breakfast as is typical but once done they apparently devised an escape hatch. I opened the door to retrieve them and five came bouncing in. I waited a couple minutes for the final four to no avail. Found them back by the banana trees having a grand ole time. Clever little buggers. I did the required adjustments and none have figured a way around it yet.
This morning included a trip to the Vet to secure Apollo's traveling papers. Decided to combine a few others into the appointment so I'd not have to take so many at a time. I grabbed whoever was easiest to grab at the moment of grabbing. Todays winners were, Apollo, Buddy, Greta and Nox. All officially ready to go. The others will go for their health certificates tomorrow. Apollo's scheduled for his departure late this afternoon. Always a little bitter sweet for me... but after having a chance to meet everyone I'm excited for them to begin their new adventure! It's been a long wait for some of you, and thankfully no surprises for me!!! And we're getting close.
Looks like there's strong interest, based on comments, for a FB litter page and I'll put one of those together. Historically, they've been great! A good source of support for everyone, a spot to bombard with photos and an awesome way to update me on the progress of your pups. I try and stay out of everyones business but if I see something particularly concerning I may say so... If really concerning, which is rare, a post may prompt an email or text. On the flip side, if any of you have concerns along the way... pipe up. If you're having challenges, it's likely some others are experiencing the same challenges. And as always, I'm available nearly 24/7 via email or phone for any concerns that are of a more personal nature regarding any particular pup. I'm here for each of you, today, tomorrow and for the life of your pups. I want nothing but great success for each of them and you.
Get ready to batten down those hatches pup pals. I wish the best for all of you!!!