No...just one of the mesquite imagination-inspired animals that fill
the store and museum.
We first had to ask the staff if The Thing was alive before we would
commit to seeing it...then we negotiated a free admission with our
purchase.
Let's just say that we are so pleased we stopped here!
We discovered a delightful shop full of Interesting art, rocks,
crystals, jewelry and souvenirs. As far as The Thing...well, you'll
just have to see for yourself!
Did you know it takes at least 75 years for this cactus to begin to
grow an arm? This plant is likely more than 100 years old. Amazing!
Palm Springs is definitely an oasis...and looks like a fun place to
spend time in the winter if you're a golfer or resort-loving person.
Maya and Finn ran out over 1000 yards, nearly a mile, to gather
sheep...making their way over hills and thru valleys, out of site most
of the time...then incredibly, finding their way back with their
flock, satisfying their generations -old instincts. Luc, Sue and Nick
accomplished the same amazing task, gathering their own flocks which
were set out 700 or 800 yards (3/4 mile) away with little difficulty.
All the dogs handled the large flock of 150 ewes easily as they each
took turns sorting sheep each morning for the days work. Each dog
drove their charges over the hilly land 300 to 500 yards like they
were born for the task!! And apparently they were!
I again heard the story of Russell in his youth gathering up hundreds
of ewes spread out over vast lands, often taking nearly an hour to
complete the difficult task...without a single command...and always
trusted to bring in the entire flock harmlessly. Now his sons and
daughters are following in his footsteps...growing into fine sheepdogs
any shepherd would be proud of!
Our time spent in the beautiful land of norhern California has
ended...but the wisdom will never be forgotten.
It is astounding to witness the youngsters quickly evolving and
becoming more mature as they process their experiences. As Nancy says:
the dogs will press their handlers to step up to a higher level in
order to keep pace with the brilliance of the dogs.
Today we'll try longer gathers and more shedding - can hardly wait!
All the dogs are adjusting to the large and hilly fields amazingly
well! You can see the sheep down in the valley as Sue and Luc each
hope it's there turn to gather. Each of the dogs had an opportunity to
test their skills and natural instincts at gathering and driving on
the hills at distances and on terrain they have never before seen.
Nancy and I are impressed with our young dogs...opinion admittedly
slanted! Maya ran out at great distance and navigated the hills as if
she were raised a hill dog.
Can you tell we are having a great time?
More of the same today...all the dogs are so eager to get to the ranch
they didn't wait to take the time to potty this morning. Too cute!
It was great to see him working and he was happy to see us after he
was done Like his dad, he only has eyes for the sheep when he's
working.
I hope the little video I took with my phone shows up!
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