Soldotna Chilly Dogs

Jesus Has Been Spotted

2012-02-08T09:39:00.000-08:00

Too good not to share . . .

via Pinterest

Black Dog

2012-01-25T19:41:00.000-08:00

Just a plain old black dog.

No special breed.

An unknown past.

Sitting in the shelter, waiting for a home.

Changed our lives forever.

Beautiful spirit.

Terrific friend and companion.

Turned out to be not so plain.

Django died today in our home.

She loved her friends.

11-11-11

2011-11-11T21:22:00.000-08:00

Guinness turns 4 today!

His day started with his grandma singing happy birthday to him while he was still in bed.

Then his aunt Ellen sang him happy birthday later in the day.

He went on an invigorating doggie walk in the snow with his besties.

Then had a pig ear to top it all off!

And it ended with an e-mail from Daisy and Scout (little dogs rule).

Thanks to all of his besties (even his bestie grandma) for validating that he is the #1 chiweenie.

He thinks so.

One gone, one not quite here.....

2011-10-22T20:16:00.000-07:00

These two black beauties gave me so much joy and pleasure. Maybe dogs give so much on a daily basis because they know they will be here such a short time. Django still gives me a happy wag when she sees me but I believe she misses Stella, too, and would give anything for one more sniff down a snowy trail with her. I know that I would.

The Three Amigos

2011-10-14T18:30:00.001-07:00

Buckwheat and Buttercup got a special treat today!

Their friends Dakota (yellow boy) and Denali (brown girl) paid us a visit this afternoon.

Dakota is a football player!

He has such strength and yet is such a mellow guy.

And Denali won Buck's heart.

He fell in love this afternoon.

I don't know about Denali or Dakota, but after 3 FULL hours of play and affection Buck is going to sleep soundly tonight.
I am SURE!

Fitting In

2011-10-12T17:44:00.000-07:00

Buck has been eating EVERY single drop of food.

Since he is a picky eater I have been scrutinizing his eating habits.

I can't imagine why he is eating it ALL.

An audience of eager eaters wait in the wings.

Guinness had to make sure he cleaned his bowl COMPLETELY.

Woke up yesterday morning to 22 above.

Jan reported 16 at her house.

BURRRRRRRR

We ended the day with a tail wagging game of Farkel.
Guinness let Buck win - since he is company.

Buck was a good sport.
He is starting to relax (could be the beer).
He is slowly starting to fit in.
(smile)

Buckwheat Goes On Vacation

2011-10-10T18:16:00.000-07:00

A pig ear cocktail for all of the dogs that are of drinking age.

Yum.

After the cocktails, the play ensues.

It's just too bad they don't like each other isn't it?

Fall Walk

2011-10-07T18:13:00.000-07:00

Recipe to share

2011-10-05T09:55:00.000-07:00

5 lbs freshly dug potatoes and 2 springs rosemary from Amanda's garden
Fold in three gorgeous sun-shiny autumn days
Ice with chilly morning frosting (mother nature's recipe)
Season with spicy conversation from A & E
Toss in a couple of nutty mutts
Sprinkle with laughs, smiles, ohhs and ahhs, and woofs
Enjoy!

Surrounded by beauty

2011-07-21T15:56:00.001-07:00

We camped on a beach near Homer. Each girl took a dog. We were surrounded by beauty...the day, the dogs, the beach, the friendship, the goodtimes. WOW!

Belated Birthday Hike

2011-06-18T09:27:00.000-07:00

Took a hike up to Skilak Overlook for Amanda's birthday...beautiful weather, lovely company of the 4 and 2 legged variety plus champagne and cake...what a day!

Engineer Lake

2011-03-19T17:35:00.000-07:00

Rowdy Scouty with his "cape" that has been ripped to shreads!

What a hansdsome boy!

Scouty and Daisy are attached at the hip - literally!

Buckwheat . . . what can I say?

This picture best described
his pupphood energy best.

And Buttercup.

What a lovely girl.

Goodbye, my friend

2011-03-05T13:19:00.000-08:00

Strong

Tender

Energetic

Loving

Lovely

Always by my side.....

Goodbye my sweet friend. I will never forget you.....

Tourists already

2011-02-21T22:59:00.000-08:00

We came across these guys yesterday. They couldn't decide which city to visit

6 Mile Family Walk

2011-02-13T01:15:00.000-08:00

Duane, Ellen and Amanda (standing)

and Jan and Jadie (kneeling)

Ellen, Duane and Jadie

Beautiful sunny day for a walk with a lovely visiting sister!

You can come back any time and walk with us Jadie!

We really enjoyed your company!

Kids gone wild!

2011-01-01T20:53:00.000-08:00

A beautiful hike in balmy 26 degrees at Carolyn's to end 2010. The "kids" got a little crazy. Thanks for a wonderful year, good friends.

Yappy Birthday!

2010-12-12T18:31:00.000-08:00

Soledad had a birthday this weekend!

To celebrate, Jan and Stan made an amazing

Sunday brunch (almost ALL vegan dishes).

Everyone grab a doggie . . . CHEESE!

Black Friday--NOT!

2010-11-27T10:10:00.000-08:00

Whoever called this Black Friday definitely did NOT get out on the trails. The color and light were fabulous. The smiles were fabulous too!

Ice Skating

2010-11-21T19:34:00.000-08:00

Today Stan, Ellen and I went for a little skate around Ellen's lake.

Stan really wanted some blisters,

and I think each of us got a few!

But it was worth it.

Stella soaking up some snow.

Buckwheat is waiting patiently for us to come out and join him.

Django was slip sliding around,
so she waited in the house.
I'm sure there was a lot of heavy breathing and pacing.

Guinness was out there too (more than all of them).
He was a little trooper,
and he loved Stans gloves!

If Paco Wrote A Book It Would Be Called

2010-11-18T20:58:00.000-08:00

Dog Gone

2010-10-14T18:37:00.000-07:00

Brutus

Beast

Beastman

Big Man

Big Mannie

Brutie

For a dog that came to us without a name,

he sure had a lot when he left us.

He died knowing that he was loved

Though his time with us was brief,

his stable and loving nature

made an impact on everyone

he met.

Died 10/14/10

Good Old Boy

2010-10-09T10:42:00.000-07:00

Well, Brutus has been slowing down (as all of his friends know).

We went to our favorite vet yesterday and found out

that he has a tumor on his spleen.

Which probably explains his lack of energy,

vomiting, and disinterest in food.

It looks like his days are numbered . . .

we are just trying to make him comfortable

and most importantly feeling loved.

Thank you to all of his friends over his last couple of years.

The patience and love that you have given him was appreciated (by both of us).

Buckwheat and Stella

2010-10-06T21:16:00.000-07:00

Brutus Turns 2

2010-10-05T19:07:00.000-07:00

It's been 2 years since we've had Brutie!

He's never been better.

Birthday dinner was salmon skins

and an ice cream from McDonalds.

Yummy!

Baby Sheehan

2010-09-24T13:07:00.000-07:00

Ellen, Duane, and Ellen's parents (Ken and Dorothy)

picked up the newest member of the Sheehan family this morning.

It's a bouncing baby boy!

He is a border collie mix puppy.

Taking ALL of the big dogs and cats

at the Motonaga house in stride.

Enjoy your new and beautiful life little one.

What Is A Puppy?

What Is a Puppy?
A puppy is a fluffy bundle of joy
Who can turn any object into a toy
With four paws and a wagging tail
He will try and beat you to pick up the mail
He likes to chew on anything new
A ball, a bone or even a shoe
He loves to run and likes to be
Chasing the neighbours cat up a tree
A puppy is loveable and so cute
Even when he ruins your favourite boot
His adoring look will melt your heart
And you know from him you won’t want to part
A puppies love just grows and grows
Through all of the little highs and lows
He truly will be your best friend
A great companion to the end.

Paco Mooney

2010-09-14T22:08:00.000-07:00

Paco has a lump in his throat.

It will be biopsied next Tuesday.

Let's hope it's not a frog.

In all seriousness . . .

we love you Paco and hope you have a

safe and healthy surgery and recovery!

Wheat's going on?

2010-08-19T13:20:00.000-07:00

I am absolutely crazy about this photo. A friend casually posted it on her facebook page with the title "a day out in the country." It reminds me of paintings in the style of Grant Wood. It's going on my "project list" for a make over. I love the doggie in the background--tail and nose only.

Oshkosh Bogosh!

2010-08-04T18:50:00.000-07:00

While in Oshkosh Wisconsin last Thursday and Friday, Gregg and I found a picture of Django in one of the vendors booths!

As you can see by my face I was quite excited. How embarassing that you can see all of my fillings. Anyway, Django was seen NOT just on the backdrop of the booth, but also on a pamphlet of Mutt Muffs! Her picture was the ENTIRE pamphlet!!! Very glamorous.

She is the one on the far right standing on our floats looking very forlorn, and about 5 years younger. This was THE BEST booth in the entire spread.

Beach Birthday

2010-07-23T18:51:00.001-07:00

Suz, Carolyn, Jan, Ellen, me, and Soledad

(and all of the furry friends)

hiked down to Diamond Ridge Beach

just north of Homer

last Thursday to celebrate Ellen's Birthday.

Mocha, Paco and Sole

She is such a terrific animal mom.

Chhheeeeeerrrs!

Here's to another year of dog walks!

Skilak Lake Overlook

2010-07-11T18:55:00.001-07:00

A hike on a BEAUTIFUL 70 degree day

with Duane, Ellen and Stella

(and Guinness in the left hand corner).

This is how summer is SUPPOSED to be!!!!

Houndstooth Studio

2010-03-16T19:31:00.000-07:00

I loved these photos of pets . . . I thought you might too.

You can find more amazing photos at:

houndstooth studio

Caught in the act!

2010-03-14T00:02:00.000-08:00

From the Kenai Peninsula Clarion police blotter 3/7/10: "Pulled over on the North Road at 12:30pm were three juvenile delinquents driving a dark blue Dodge Ram. Driver, Django Motonaga, was cited for driving without a license (see how embarrassed she is) and under the influence of snaps. Her two accomplices who, even though at first glance appear to be very innocent looking, were given breath tests. One tested positive for a brown sticky substance. The three were released to the custody of North Kenai resident, Ellen Sheehan.

Stella

2010-02-15T18:38:00.001-08:00

I'm not sure what I can say about this beautiful girl that won't either make me cry or (more importantly) Ellen cry.

All of our thoughts are with Stella's recovery and the next walk. She is such an important part of our lives.

Her smiling face and wagging tail is what we will look forward to seeing.

Good friend on a cold day

2010-01-23T17:48:00.000-08:00

We spent a great Sunday afternoon with Ellen and Stella on cold, cold Arness Lake. Get well soon buddy!

Can cute become cuter?

2010-01-17T11:46:00.000-08:00

Couldn't resist posting these cute and silly pictures of fellow Border Terriers. I don't think Daisy would tolerate either costume.

Skilak Overlook Trail

2010-01-16T22:11:00.000-08:00

Hiked this trail today in all it's crystal, foggy wonder. One of my favorites. The absolute stillness and quiet were just what I needed. Hard to believe this is the same trail that in spring will reveal knee high ferns and morels.

Chilly Chihuahua

2010-01-10T23:28:00.000-08:00

Went for an invigorating walk this afternoon with three good buddies--Django, Guinness and Amanada. Guinness was no hot tamale and begged his way into his mom's coat to warm up a bit. Who could resist this cute little hitchhiker. He'd be using a thumb if he had one.

Santa Paws?

2009-12-29T10:21:00.000-08:00

Wishing all of your happy holidays! These pictures came from sketchy santas.

Bone Appetite!

2009-12-17T18:18:00.000-08:00

Here are the finished dog bowls/plates. I think they turned out absolutely beautifully! Your furry family will love to drink/eat out of these loving pieces of art.

Pet Bowls To Drool Over

2009-12-11T16:02:00.000-08:00

Guests, (furry and human) are going to arrive soon for a paint-your-own-pet-bowl party!!!! YiPPee!!

The bowls are naked waiting to be bathed in beautiful colors.

Rowdy Scouty has the best seat in town (on Ellen's lap).

Jim, Soledad, Duane and Jan are painting away. Their creative juices are flowing.

Nikka, Soledad, Joe, Jim, Carolyn and Mason, and Brian are putting the finishing touches on their creations.

Jim is intensely painting . . . tongues?

Duane, Joe, Paco, Soledad, Mocha, Jan, Mason and Carolyn are sitting down for a little bite before the painting ensues.

Gregg (standing on the dog bed) is talking to Jan and Stan. About what??? Maybe the next dog walk (I hope).

That was so much fun! Thanks to all of you beautiful people and dogs for making this such a great night. Also, thank you for your donations to the Nikiski Animal Sanctuary. Your gifts will make the holidays easier for them! You guys rock!

Aye Carumba

2009-11-28T09:33:00.000-08:00

While out snorkeling, when our heads came out of the water, this is who we saw! Cute and talented. I think this is something Guinness might like to try.

Thanks for giving...

2009-11-25T09:11:00.001-08:00

Thanks to my friends for giving me the knowledge that there is alot more beautiful food out there to celebrate the holiday with other than turkey. Hope you all have a beautiful Thanksgiving.

The end is near!

2009-11-23T01:02:00.001-08:00

The littlest "guys" in our pack are Paco and Mocha. Here's pictures of the little cuties with their mom, Soledad. Don't let their little size fool you. A couple of weeks ago they were out and about in below zero weather--but not without the proper atire.

Hideout Trail

2009-10-20T20:27:00.001-07:00

Ellen and her "squeeze" Guinness posing in front of a fabulous view of Skilak Lake and the Russian River. It was a gorgeous Sunday afternoon and Ellen, the dogs and I decided to get out there and enjoy the fall colors.
Hideout Trail is only 1.5 miles - but, it's straight up. It didn't take very long to hike minus a LONG break at the top with some yummy PBJ's and tea.

Venitian Dogs

2009-10-06T18:49:00.000-07:00

Our trip to Venice Italy was surprisingly full of DOGS!!!

Off leash, on leash, inside coffee shops, sitting with their owners in piazzas . . . basically ALL OVER! We loved it and took A LOT of pics. Can't wait to share - but here's the first of many dog pictures that we took. - Amanda Motonaga

A dog waits for their owner at the

"water gate" of our palazzo.

No, Nixon wasn't there.

Lost Lake, Seward AK

2009-09-28T22:22:00.001-07:00

OK, more mountain and lake photos, but man, I'm addicted. This is why I love Alaska!

The "other" Denali

2009-09-11T23:02:00.000-07:00

We drove the Denali Highway on Labor Day weekend. Got to see the stunning beauty of the glorious Alaska fall. Got to gorge on wild blueberries too!

Resurrection Trail - Beautiful Alaska

2009-08-30T17:55:00.000-07:00

Solitude, beauty, fresh air.....Trout Lake, Rescurrection Trail

What a fun day just being a dog--no leash, no collar--using all senses and thinking on your own!

My two favorite guys :)

2009-08-18T19:12:00.000-07:00

These are my two favorite guys...Duane and Guinness on a beach out of Seward early this spring - aren't they handsome????

Snake Grass

2009-08-12T14:09:00.001-07:00

Django and Guinness enjoyed the tall snake grass at Knik Glacier this weekend.

Sunday in Seward

2009-08-09T22:25:00.000-07:00

They leave footprints on our hearts too!

2009-08-07T00:10:00.001-07:00

If You Must Smoke.....Smoke Salmon

2009-08-06T18:19:00.000-07:00

Gregg gives Stan a smoking lesson.

Scouty gives Daisy a smoking lesson.

Lap Dogs.

Fireweed on Fire Road flames while the salmon smokes.

Nikiski Pool

2009-08-05T14:18:00.000-07:00

Charlie is strapped in and READY for a fabulous dog walk.

Brutus pulling up the rear AGAIN!

Joe and Soledad popping wheelies with Charlie.

Mason is the newest mascot.
His outfit had a pattern of tiny blue dogs -
and look at his feet!

The fun has wrapped up and Charlie is driving home!

Diamond Ridge Beach Walk

2009-07-31T21:58:00.000-07:00

Jan finds the culprit of Daisy's foul smell . . .

Daisy get's a bath after having an exhilarating roll in a dead crab.

What will it be? Heads or Tails?

The rock hounds . . . Nikka and Daisy.

Jan finds a dead starfish and chucks it into the water

before Daisy has a chance to perfume herself.

Gregg holds the sea kelp that we had enjoyed
popping with our feet as we walked.

Jan, Gregg, Soledad and Darci

enjoying the sunshine and pups.

Darci, Jan and Soledad walk on as Nikka, Paco and Daisy play.

Paco is refreshed after falling into the creek.

He looks like he's still having fun though!

We start our ascent back to the cars.

Sad to leave the beach . . . but the tide is coming in fast and hard.

Thanks for one of the best days of summer '09

It's My Party And I'll Bark If I Want To

2009-07-17T21:20:00.000-07:00

Charlie Vermette (The Warden)

playing with the dogs in the daisies.

Jan is greeted by Daisy after a long day of work.

Soledad watching the pups play.

Yippeee!!!!!!! Nikka and Charlie party hard in the daisies.

How many dogs can you spot?

Nikka, Daisy and Paco are having a BLAST!

Yappy Birthday!!!

2009-07-16T21:12:00.000-07:00

Surprise!!!!!!!!! Ellen's surprise birthday party.

And she was very SURPRISED!

Ellen and Charlie blow out the candles. 8 candles . . . I'm not sure that number applies to either of them.

Jan arrives after work and the party is complete!!!

The festivities ensue in the hangar.
good friends - good food - good dogs

The party master looking very smug.
What a great idea Duane!