Artist Renee Lammers

 

 

This is Lady Rose.

 

She did great having all her nails trimmed tonight.

 

I trimmed all the puppies nails successful.

 

 

Mr. Carson was delighted to have his nails trimmed!

 

Photos were taken before their nails were done.  

 

Look how long their nails were!

 

 

Lady Mary is the most perfect puppy!

 

She had the longest nails, the most teeth, and is the biggest!

 

I am speaking of just a few ounces difference in weight.

 

 

Earl of Grantham was a gentleman.

 

 

Robert brought home many little puppy toys!

 

 

Lady Rose was the most interested in the toys so far.

 

She loved them.

 

 

Patmore the Cook, green collar woke up and found a green ball!

 

 

Grandmother Poppy's self imposed job is to wash all the pups after dinner.

 

Lady Edith licked her face too.

 

 

Grandmother Poppy was letting Lily know she would take care of it!

 

 

Grandfather Monet, lower left, came over to steal the puppies new toys!

 

He whimpered a few times.

 

Lily growled at him.

 

She also put her head in front of the pen to push him away.

 

He decided the puppies could have their toys.

 

I thought that was very smart of Lily!

 

She was strong but kind.

 

 

Here is Earl checking out a new toy!

 

I am so tired!

 

I cleaned all their collars, the walls of the pen, the newspapers were changed many times,

 

I trimmed all 162 nails, fed them many times, held them and snuggled with them.  

 

It was a very good day well spent!

 

 

Good night!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Robert and I laughed when we saw Grandmother Poppy baby sitting!

 

She was in the pen for many hours.

 

She was watching them.

 

She would sniff and clean them.

 

I could tell she was so happy to be with them.

 

 

Every once in a while I would hear Poppy sweetly talk with the puppies.

 

They would get up and come to her when she made little grunting noises.

 

The puppies wagged their tail when she first stepped very carefully into their pen.

 

They recognized their Grandmother!

 

Lady Violet is the cute puppy in the background looking.

 

Mr. Carson is by her hip.

 

 

I think Lady Violet is admiring her Grandmother.

 

"Grandmother is very pretty.  I look like her!"

 

 

Lily was watch Grandmother Poppy clean the puppies.

 

It is fun to watch them interact.

 

 

Mr. Carson decided Downton Abbey needed a barn for the animals!

 

He worked all morning drawing the design of the barn.

 

He worked up a sweat!

 

 

Earl of Grantham was shown the barn drawing.

 

"Wonderful!  Thank you Mr. Carson.  This is be fantastic!

 

Will there be room for horses and cows?"

 

 

Mr. Carson considered Earl's question. 

 

I think the new barn should be large enough for all!

 

 

"We should have a barn dance to celebrate!" said Lady Rose.

 

"I need a new dress for a barn dance!" said Lady Mary.

 

"I am going to wear my tuxedo!" said Earl of Grantham.

 

 

Lady Rose, on the left, and Lady Mary, on the right dreamed of the barn dance.

 

 

Lady Violet was dreaming of floating down the river in the pumpkin.

 

"I hope the pumpkin will sport the British flag!"

 

"Traveling is so good for one's spirit!"

 

 

Everyone was excited about the building of the barn!

 

Good night!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earl of Grantham noticed a pumpkin in Downton Abbey this morning.

 

"How wonderful!  I would love to take a bite out of that!"

 

 

Lady Violet walked over to inspect the pumpkin.

 

"The pumpkin is quite large!  We could carve out the pumpkin and float down the river!"

 

Lady Edith said, "I will watch you drift down the river in the pumpkin from the bank of the river."

 

 

Mr. Carson overheard the conversation about floating down the river in the pumpkin.

 

He asked who was going to carve out the pulp of the pumpkin?

 

Will the pumpkin even float once it is hallowed out?

 

I sure hope I won't be the guinea pig to this expedition!

 

!

 

Dinner was served!

 

 

The box was popular this afternoon!

 

 

How fun it is to camp!

 

 

Grandfather Monet can not wait for the puppies to be old enough to play outside!

 

Next week they should be able to explore the picket fence yard.

 

 

The Countess, orange collar, on the right suggested no one should float in the pumpkin.

 

Lady Mary said, "It does sound dreadfully terrifying!"

 

Patmore said, "I have many turkey, chickens, and geese to care for!"

 

Lady Edith agreed.

 

 

"The Wanderer" 20x26 oil on copper 1750$ framed in black with gold.  Shipping included.

 

   I may decide to work more on this painting later.

 

Sometimes the paintings look so nice with minimal color.

 

Good night.

 

 

 

 

 

 

When I was washing the puppies with a warm wet hand towel,

 

I put my finger in their mouth, to discover teeth!

 

They are really developing nicely!

 

Lady Rose, red collar, told Lady Violet and Lady Mary, "I have teeth!"

 

 

I washed their little collars last night!

 

Lady Violet, white collar, was most appreciative.

 

 

Baxter, aqua collar on the right was showing Lady Violet, white collar, her teeth!

 

Lady Violet said, "Oh we all have teeth you twit!"

 

 

They are much more active!  

 

Sometimes they are awake, playing, but don't make a sound!

 

Last night Monet chose to lay down by the puppy pen.

 

He was growling when the puppies would make a growl, bark, or squeal.

 

He seemed to be trying to have a conversation with them!

 

 

I find Lily watching her puppies many different times of the day.

 

She still feeds them briefly.

 

 

Baxter, aqua collar on the left, Mr. Carson, black collar, and Patmore the Cook were discussing dinner.

 

"What shall we have for dinner tonight?" asked Patmore the Cook.

 

"I am hungry for a big fat turkey!" answered Mr. Carson.

 

"We can't cook the turkey living in our kitchen pantry!  Oh no!  He is a pet now!"  explained Patmore the Cook.

 

Baxter said, "Possum pie?"  

 

"Possum Pie?  Never at Downton Abbey will we serve Possum Pie!" exclaimed Mr. Carson.

 

"Well I just thought it would be a practical way to rid Downton Abbey of all the possum population!"

 

"What about a nice mushroom soup?" asked Patmore the Cook.

 

"Mushrooms?  Oh no!  We need something with substance Patmore the Cook!" said Mr. Carson.

 

Patmore the Cook decided to ask Baxter to go in town to select a side of beef!

 

"Well done!" said Mr. Carson.

 

 

The box is a source of entertainment.

 

Earl of Grantham, purple color, was nibbling on the Countess's ear!

 

"Oh stop that!  Not in public!  How many times do I need to remind you!  We are not at a brothel!"

 

 

 

Lady Edith was enjoying a nap in her new office.

 

 

Mr. Carson and Lady Violet decided to explore the office!

 

"What do you have in here?  Any food?  Any turkey or beef or cake or pies?"

 

 

Dinner was served on a turkey platter!

 

There was plenty of room for all!

 

Everyone was so pleased!

 

 

I feed the puppies at 11pm, 5pm, and 2am.  

 

Lily feeds them many times throughout the day and night.

 

I give them a warm wet hand towel bath after each dinner.

 

Some of the puppies look for the towel to get clean after they eat!

 

I think they enjoy being cleaned up.

 

 

"Everyday is a party!" said Lady Rose

 

Good night.

 

 

Here is the painting on my easel.

 

It is a 20x26 oil on copper.

 

 

 

 

 

I noticed the puppies playing the alligator game today!

 

This is when they pretend to be alligators and bite each other.

 

They have no teeth as yet.

 

This is a game all dogs play.

 

 

I placed a box with a clean sheet in their pen.

 

They enjoyed checking out the box!

 

They have such cute faces!

 

 

They are inquisitive.

 

 

Lady Edith, yellow collar on left, enjoyed the box the most!

 

"My own private office!  It is a dream come true!"

 

 

The Countess discovered her foot today!

 

"I do have such pretty feet!"

 

 

"I'm so pretty!  Oh so pretty!" she sang to herself.

 

 

Baxter enjoyed the sensation of cold water on her feet!

 

"Wow this is so refreshing!"

 

 

It is Lady Violet, white collar, who alerts me when it is time for dinner.

 

She just howls!  "Dinner!  We need some dinner over hear!"

 

 

I love the sounds they make.

 

I hear little barks just like Monet!

 

Little growls are common.

 

Howls are made when they are starving!

 

 

Lady Rose, red collar, was dreaming about dancing.

 

 

Grandfather Monet climbed into my lap today.

 

I held him for an hour.

 

He just needed to feel appreciated.

 

Those little grand puppies are getting too much attention.

 

 

 

Last night I worked on drawing this 20x26 copper painting.

 

Good night!

 

 

 

Grandfather Monet was a helper this morning at 10:00am.

 

He barked twice at my bedroom door.

 

Rah!  Rah!  It was a playful come hither bark.

 

I opened my door to see him wagging his tail and showing me he wanted me to follow!

 

Downstairs the puppies were walking around in their pen.

 

A few of the puppies were howling.

 

Lily and Poppy were standing nearby.

 

They had a discontented look on their faces.

 

Monet wanted me to feed the puppies!

 

 

I poured warm water, dry pedigree puppy food, and a scoop of dried goat's milk into a food processor.

 

Within a minute I fed the puppies their food.

 

They enjoyed a hearty breakfast.

 

Earl of Grantham was inside the bowl licking up the last bite!

 

Then they finished eating, I washed each puppy with a warm wet hand towel, and they fell asleep.

 

 

Patmore the Cook, green collar on left, took credit for their dinner!

 

 

There is always a puppy who prefers to jump into the bowl!

 

 

Baxter is getting as much as she wants to eat!

 

 

Lady Violet yelled,"Don't look up! Paparazzi was let into Downton Abbey!  We are going to be

 

on the front page of London Time newspaper!"

 

 

Earl of Grantham told the press, "Please take my photo! I am the Earl of Grantham!"

 

"Oh golly," said Lady Mary!  

 

 

Lady Rose and Baxter fell asleep after dinning and being washed!

 

 

Mr. Carson asked the press to leave Downton Abbey!

 

 

Lady Edith, yellow collar, was so pleased with the clean quilt.

 

 

Lily is still giving the puppies a sip.

 

She is grateful the puppies are starting to eat on their own.

 

 

I was going to sleep at 2:00am when all the puppies started to howl.

 

I fed them a nice portion of food, washed them all, cleaned up, and put them to bed.

 

I noticed Lily lying down with the pups to feed them.

 

This might be the last time I see her like this.

 

Now she tends to stand for them to drink.

 

 

"Hydrandeas and Asters" 7x5 oil on copper 350$ framed in gold or black with gold.

Shipping included.

 

I worked on this painting last night.

 

Good night!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I purchased Chester the Jester for the puppies.

 

Chester sings "That's amore" and moves.

 

The puppies all loved him!

 

 

Many of them lined up to watch!

 

 

The Countess, orange collar, decided to sit on his lap and get a hug!

 

 

He entertained them!

 

 

Earl of Grantham, purple collar, went up to greet him.

 

"Welcome to Downton Abbey!  We are most happy to have you anytime Sir!"

 

 

 

Lady Violet asked Chester the Jester,"Are you a lion?"

 

He sang back, "Yes!  That's amore!"

 

"Goodness, said Lady Violet, Downton Abbey has turned into a petting zoo!"

 

Fortunately Chester was too busy dancing and singing to hear what she had said!

 

 

Lily freaked out when Chester started to sing and move.

 

She thought Chester was going to harm the puppies.

 

I had not thought of how Lily would react.

 

She jumped in and checked him out!

 

Lily approved of Chester the Jester!

 

 

Robert was teaching the puppies how to sip warm goat milk.

 

 

They seem to be getting the hand of drink warm goat's milk.

 

 

After all the puppies had their fill, Lily came in to finish the bowl, and Patmore helped.

 

Patmore the Cook was so fat she was stuck on top of the bowl!

 

I had to lift her off.

 

 

They were content after their meal and entertainment!

 

"What a grand day," said Lady Mary.

 

"I could drink goat milk forever," said Lady Edith.

 

"I think I ate too much today!" said Earl of Grantham.

 

"Should I bring you the bitters Earl of Grantham?" asked Mr. Carson.

 

Earl was snoring so Mr. Carson decided all was well.

 

The Countess overhead Mr. Carson, "Oh, please bring the bitters!"

 

Patmore the Cook said, "I feel like I ate the whole thing!"

 

Baxter told her, "You did!"

 

Good night.

 

 

"Forest Treasures" 5x7 oil on copper 350$ framed in gold or black with gold.  Shipping included.

 

 

 

 

 

Patmore the Cook was the first to check out water.

 

She decided to wash her foot first!

 

 

Mr. Carson, black collar, on left, watched Patmore The Cook as she explored water.

 

"What is it Patmore?"

 

"It is a new addition to the kitchen!  Water!"

 

 

Mr. Carson, black collar, decided to check out the water.

 

He shook his paw!  

 

"I am not sure I like water."

 

 

Lily jumped into Downton Abbey and demonstrated drinking water.

 

"Well look at that!" 

 

 

Earl of Grantham watched but noted he would always be a milk drinker.

 

Lady Mary, light blue collar, by her foot, said, "Golly!  What an interesting development today!"

 

 

A lamb and bear entered Downton Abbey this morning.

 

They were very interested in the lamb.

 

Lady Mary, light blue collar, and Earl, purple collar nibbled on the lamb.

 

 

What an exciting day for the puppies!

 

Last night I saw Earl wag his tail for the first time!

 

I also noticed the puppies playing.

 

The Countess, orange collar enjoyed the water.

 

"How refreshing!  I just want to roll around in water!"

 

 

 

I have seen Lily standing to nurse the puppies.

 

This means the puppies are developing teeth!

 

She is starting to ween the puppies.

 

I did hold up little Baxter, aqua collar, in front to nurse for a few minutes.

 

I could feel her little belly getting larger.

 

She was very happy about this because she could not reach any nipples.

 

 

Mr. Carson, on the left, was cleaning Lady Violet's face.

 

Yes I did say, "Awe" to myself!

 

 

Grandparents Poppy and Monet greeting the puppies this morning.

 

Monet graciously allowed the grand puppies to have his little bear and lamb.

 

He did bark and huff a few times in confusion before he decided it was fine.

 

 

 

 

The Countess decided to take a nap!  What a day!

 

 

"Enchanted Nest" 5x7 oil on copper sold.  Thanks.

 

I painted a nest I found in my yard a few years ago.  There was one egg in the nest.

 

There were two holes in the egg.

 

I kept it for a painting.

 

I will try to introduce warm goat milk to the puppies today!

 

Good night.

 

 

 

 

 

 

For the last two nights Robert has been assembling a homemade larger doggie pen downstairs.

 

Many layers of plastic are under the pen to protect the wooden floor.

 

I placed the newspapers in the pen as Robert carried three puppies at a time to the new pen.

 

Following up and down the stairs were Mother Lily, and the Grandparents Monet and Poppy.

 

 

Robert assisted Lily in jumping over a barrier to enter the pen.

 

She was reluctant to do this.

 

She inspected the pen, licked a few puppies, and took off!

 

 

Grandmother Poppy consoled the puppies.

 

They always enjoy their Grandmother's company.

 

They came running to see her.

 

Lily just wanted to take a nap.  

 

She had already fed the puppies upstairs.

 

I could tell Lily thought, "Have at it Poppy!"

 

 

 

Grandmother Poppy cleaned each puppy .

 

She was in her element!

 

 

In the other side of this new pen is Lily's bed.  

 

She uses this bed as a trampoline to get to the other side where the puppies are located!

 

Lily has her own style and the puppies are prepared for her entrance!

 

"Quick!  Move it!  Mother is coming in!  Get out of the way!"

 

 

Here is a better photo of the new larger pen downstairs.

 

Grandmother Poppy is with the puppies on the left.

 

Lily is turning around in circles checking for snakes (a doggy ritual before they lay down).

 

Grandfather Monet is on top of my make shift bed!

 

Yes, I slept next to the pen last night to make sure the puppies were safe and happy.

 

After four hours, there was no sound, so I retreated to my own room upstairs.

 

I checked on the puppies every hour.

 

 

A golden retriever will find the most comfortable place to sleep.

 

I moved Monet's bed into the room so I could sleep in the intended place!

 

 

We needed to move the puppies quick because Lady Mary was turning into a pole vaulter!

 

She loved to jump out of the pen and see how far she could fly through the air!

 

"I was gobsmaked about the move but now I am very happy."

 

 

Earl, purple collar on the right, Lady Edith, on the right, and Mr. Carson in the back were

 

chuffed to bits with the new pen!  (British for very pleased)

 

 

Lady Violet was so relaxed.

 

She fell asleep.

 

"I'll sleep anywhere as long as the food is great!"

 

"At my age one can not be particular."

 

 

The Countess thought it was a wonderful place.

 

Good night!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Sunny" 5x7 oil on copper 350$ framed in gold or black with gold. Shipping included.

 

   I had enough energy to paint a sunflower from our garden last night!

 

Robert was upstairs sitting with Poppy on my bed watching puppies and Lily.

 

 

Earl of Grantham was surveying his gardens this morning.

 

 

Lady Violet was sleeping in this morning.

 

She was chased by a possum in the hallway late at night.

 

She heard a hissing sound, shined her candle on the animal, and saw the possum!

 

There were many baby possums hanging on to the mother's back.

 

She didn't scream.  She is getting accustomed to seeing unusual animals in Downton Abbey.

 

 

Lady Violet, white collar on the right, went into the kitchen to find Patmore the Cook, green collar.

 

Baxter, aqua collar back left, was in the kitchen.

 

Lady Violet asked Patmore the Cook, "What do Possums eat?"

 

 

Patmore the Cook avoided asking her why because she assumed there was probably a possum inside

 

Downton Abbey.  She answered, "I think raw chicken, beef, or fish would suit a possum."

 

 

"Will you please put a good portion of meat in front of my bedroom door on a platter every night?

 

Then place a raw fish by my chair in the pallor every night?  Thank you Patmore the Cook for not asking any

 

questions.  We all have secrets."  "How are your chickens doing in the kitchen pantry?"  laughed Lady Violet.

 

Then she left the kitchen.

 

 

Mr. Carson and all the other members of Downton Abbey had their nails manicured last night.

 

I first tried a battery operated nail file on Lady Violet.

 

She pulled back her hand every time the file vibrated on her nail.

 

"Yikes!  What is that!  Oh no I do not like this at all!"

 

I tried a small hand held file.

 

Their nails are so strong.  I would file for a half an hour to finish one nail!

 

I used a small nail clipper.  Lady Violet liked it just fine.

 

The only one who pitched a fit was Lady Rose!

 

She complained and moved the whole time.

 

Sorry Lady Rose.

 

You will probably take after your Grandfather who is famous at the vet.

 

 

Lady Rose, red collar, was very proud of her nails.

 

Lady Mary said she was very happy to have sharp nails on her toes.

 

 

 

Lady Mary, light blue collar, loves to jump out of the abbey.

 

Lady Rose jumped out too but didn't like it at all!

 

I was there and put her back inside.

 

The rest of the puppies seemed content to stay inside their pen.

 

Robert is putting up the larger pen tonight downstairs.  

 

 

Everyone danced this afternoon in the ballroom.

 

 

They had a great time!

 

Front row: Left to right:  Lady Rose, Earl,Lady Mary, Patmore the Cook.

Second row:  Baxter, Mr.Carson, Lady Edith, Countess, 

Last row: Lady Violet, white collar

 

Good night.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grandfather Monet instigated the morning visit.

 

He says he needs to be with these puppies! 

 

Grandmother Poppy wanted to be in there all night and day!

 

We are limited her visits so she doesn't feel the need to take over!

 

 

Mr. Carson may be spoken for.

 

His potential new owners will be coming to visit him soon.

 

 

 

Monet cleaned one puppy.

 

He felt satisfied.

 

 

Lady Violet said, "I am over here!  Come see me Grandfather!"

 

She tried to growl and bark to get his attention.

 

She walked around the perimeter of the pen growling.

 

That was so cute.

 

 

Lady Violet tried to climb over the wall.

 

 

Grandfather Monet was just amazed how active the puppies were!

 

 

Lady Mary, light blue collar, hopped out of the pen while Monet and Poppy were visiting.

 

I put her back inside.

 

She put her head up and howled.

 

 

Mr. Carson, no collar is in the back.

 

Earl of Grantham is in the foreground.

 

They look very cute with their eyes open.

 

 

Lily feeds them four or five times a day.

 

The stands on the outside of the pen cleaning them.

 

At night she sleeps on the rug or on my bed near them.

 

Last night at 3am I was checking on the puppies to find Poppy and Robert!

 

They were checking on the puppies too.

 

Monet was downstairs guarding the house.

 

The puppies were nice and warm despite 30 degree temperatures outside.

 

 

Patmore the Cook, green collar, walks around Downton Abbey often.

 

Lady Violet told Earl, "I wish she would have a seat.  All her romping around makes me nervous."

 

"I think she is looking for her chickens," Earl replied.

 

"Chickens? What would chickens be doing inside of Downton Abbey?"

 

"She kept a lot of chickens inside the kitchen pantry but a few of them escaped!"

 

"Oh good heavens!  I should get a flat in town.  Things are not to my liking here."

 

"Chickens, fox, skunks, mice...!"  Lady Violet sighed.

 

Earl of Grantham said, "I like the animals and birds inside the abbey."

 

 

Here they all are getting in a brisk walk.  

 

Good night.

 

 

"Stonington August Evening" 14x20 oil on copper.  950$ framed in gold or black with gold.

Shipping is included in the price.

 

I decided to wipe out the very bright orange sky.

 

I liked the sky better as it was before I tweaked it.

 

Now I am happy with the painting.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grandfather Monet wanted to see the puppies this morning!

 

He watched a few minutes.

 

Then he slowly walked up closer so he could see the Countess.

 

Countess walked over to greet him.

 

 

Lily did give Monet a look but he ignored it long enough to clean Countess.

 

 

It was so sweet to watch Countess look at Grandfather Monet.

 

 

 

Earl met his grandfather too.

 

 

Baxter, aqua collar, was helping Countess style her hair.

 

 

The puppies are more active everyday!

 

I found Lady Mary, light blue collar, on the bedroom floor.  

 

Lady Mary had hopped out of the pen. 

 

Lily was standing by her when I went into the room.

 

She could not figure out how to get Lady Mary back into the pen.

 

When Robert came home from work, he checked on the puppies, and told me they were

 

so excited they were climbing out!

 

I am in the progress of clearing out the downstairs dining area for a larger pen.

 

 

Lady Violet, white collar located in the front, had rolled down off the top of the puppies.

 

"My goodness, she cried, eating here is getting more and more treacherous."

 

 

Mr. Carson, no collar located on top of the pups in the center, has a unique approach!

 

Baxter, aqua collar, is doing better at eating.

 

 

I reworked a painting last night.  Here it is:

 

 

"Stonington August Evening" 14x20 oil on copper.  950$ framed in gold or black with gold.

 

Here is the painting before it was reworked.

 

 

Good night!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earl of Grantham in the center says "Hello World!" 

 

The puppies have their eyes open!

 

 

We were all up most of the night because of Grandmother Poppy!

 

She stood outside of my bedroom door whimpering to be let in!

 

Robert decided to sleep in the airstream parked in our driveway!

 

I slept in the third bedroom with a pillow over my head!

 

Lily stayed with her puppies.

 

 

Lady Violet commented to Lady Rose about her very dark red coat.

 

Lady Rose told her, "Thank you I think.  I will take that as a compliment."

 

Lady Violet said, "I must have said it wrong."

 

 

Baxter is smaller than the other puppies.

 

She has a dreadful time getting to the dinner table in time or even keeping her place

 

once she arrives!

 

The other ladies are so big and strong.

 

They push her out of the way.

 

When I see Lily getting ready to nurse the puppies, I pick Baxter up, and find her a chair!

 

I make sure she has her dinner without being shoved around.

 

Lady Rose is the last to leave the table.

 

Lady Violet commented about Lady Rose, "Soon the dress maker will be summoned before her dress seams burst open in public!"

 

The Countess thought Lady Violet was edgy today from lack of sleep.

 

 

The Countess, orange collar on left, spoke candidly, "Don't listen to her Lady Rose.

 

A women with a full figure is far more desirable than a woman shaped like a pole!"

 

"Who is shaped like a pole?" asked Lady Violet.

 

 

Patmore the Cook, center with her eyes open, said, "Yes, I agree!  Men love full figured woman!"

 

"All this talk about a woman's figure has given me quite an appetite! "

 

"Let's eat!" cried Lady Violet!

 

 

Lily is doing wonderful feeding and cleaning the puppies.

Robert took Lily, Poppy, and Monet to the beach!

 

This was Lily's first time at the beach in two weeks!

 

Robert said she was happy to be there but was not overly athletic.

 

 

I loved this photo of Earl of Grantham.

 

He is so sweet.  All the puppies are so sweet.

 

 

The puppies are walking around in their pen very well now.  

 

Robert says soon they will be jumping out and escaping!

 

We will put them in a larger pen downstairs soon.

 

 

I trimmed Lady Mary's, light blue lower puppy, nails on her front feet.

 

She didn't mind one bit.

 

She thought it was a manicure.

 

Good night.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Late last night Lily, Monet, and I were downstairs getting brushed and getting snacks.

 

Poppy was upstairs looking after the puppies!

 

She spent many hours with the puppies.

 

She cleaned them.

 

They trusted her to nurse.

 

Of course Poppy didn't have any milk for them to nurse!

 

But this didn't stop the puppies from trying!

 

She kept them warm on a very cold Autumn night.

 

Things were going fine until the real Mother Lily came back!

 

 

Poppy growled at us!

 

She was not leaving.

 

I had to wake up Robert at 2:30am for his help!

 

He asked Poppy four times to come.

 

She finally left the puppies!

 

Lily was relieved.

 

She nursed the puppies.

 

The funny part about the incident:  Lady Mary tried to mimic the growling for two minutes.

 

Lady Mary marched around the pen growling.  It was the funniest thing I have ever seen!

 

 

 

Patmore the Cook, green collar, decided she needed to remove the fox from Downton Abbey.

 

She took one of her roosters out of the pantry.

 

She carried the screeching rooster around the abbey while everyone was sleeping.

 

Then she put the rooster back in the pantry. 

 

She stood by the back door of the kitchen.

 

The fox appeared.  She chased the fox outside!

 

"One down," said Patmore the Cook!

 

 

Mr. Carson, lighter puppy, was first to enter the kitchen.

 

"Patmore!  What was that noise?"

 

"What noise?  I heard nothing!"

 

"It sounded like a rooster," said Mr. Carson.

 

Suddenly the rooster crowed very loud inside of the kitchen pantry!

 

Mr. Carson stepped to the pantry.

 

Patmore the Cook blocked the door.

 

"Patmore, Is there a rooster in our kitchen pantry?"

 

Before she could reply, Mr. Carson, opened the pantry door.

 

What he saw was just too much for him.

 

He passed out cold on the floor.

 

Patmore dragged Mr. Carson to his bedroom.

 

She dragged and pulled him into his bed.

 

Mr. Carson was sleeping soundly.  She hopped he would think it was just a dream!

 

 

Earl of Grantham was next to enter the kitchen.

 

He had sleepy eyes as he looked around the kitchen.

 

There he saw Patmore the Cook looking in the kitchen pantry.

 

"Patmore!" shouted Earl.

 

Patmore the Cook slammed the kitchen pantry door and turned around.

 

"Oh, it is the Earl of Grantham, in the kitchen at 3:00am!" she said.

 

"What can I do for you Sir?" 

 

"What was that sound, that screech, that crowing noise?"  

 

"Do we have roosters in Downton Abbey now?"  he asked.

 

"My apologies, Sir.  I sneezed very loud!"  she answered.

 

"Oh good heavens.  I am going back to bed!"  Earl of Grantham left the room.

 

 

Everyone was downstairs walking around searching for the noise!

 

Patmore the Cook appeared to be searching as well.

 

 

They all decided to go back to sleep.

 

Mr. Carson said he thought he saw roosters!

 

Patmore the Cook told him he must have been dreaming.

 

He said it was a nightmare!  "Goodnight!"

 

 

Everything is going well.  Good night to you!

 

 

 

 

 

"Stonington Roof Top View" 14x20 oil on copper 950$ framed in gold or black with gold.  Shipping included.

 

My Mom made a suggestion I paint in the distant islands and mountains even though a fog

 

bank had covered them up.  I thought about this for a few days.  Then I decided she was right!

 

I added Isle of Haut and other islands.

 

Then I decided to repaint the clouds.

 

They needed to be more developed.

 

I added the cloud reflections.

 

 

"Menagerie" 5x7 oil on copper 350$ framed in gold or black with gold.  Shipping included.

 

   I selected two red poppies, one cone flower and a few zinnia to paint last night.

 

I decide to darken the background to make those flowers glow.

 

 

Grandmother Poppy is obsessed with the puppies.

 

She stands by the door whimpering to be let inside.

 

As soon as Lily gets up and leave, Grandmother Poppy lays down!

 

She cleans puppies and tries to nurse them.

 

If Lily catches her, Lily growls, and Poppy growls back!

 

 

The benefit of having two Moms:  Lily took time to pull on my sock!  She had already

 

stolen one sock.  She placed the sock in Robert's room.

 

 

Robert was helping a puppy find his real Mom.

 

 

Lily only needs to nurse the puppies until they are about 4 weeks old.

 

 

There eyes are starting to open just a tiny bit.

 

They are really mobile for short periods of time.

 

 

All the puppies are doing well!

 

 

Monet comes to see the puppies at night for a few minutes.

 

He stays until he starts to bark.

 

Then we leave Lily by herself with her puppies.

 

 

I was admiring Earl.

 

He is so sweet.

 

 

Here is Baxter, aqua collar, so far the most dainty of the ladies.

 

My job today is to figure out how to trim 10 nails x 9 puppies!

 

Good night.

 

 

 

I noticed Poppy was not downstairs with Monet, Lily, and I.

 

I wondered if she was with the puppies?

 

Lily and I ran upstairs!

 

We saw Grandmother Poppy laying down with the pups!

 

 

You might think Poppy would run!

 

Poppy was determined to take over.

 

 

Lily looked up at me like, "What do we do now?"

 

I asked Poppy to get up nicely.

 

She did not move.

 

She didn't even look at me!

 

I put my finger under her collar and pulled up gently.

 

She stood up, jumped out of the baby pool, and I brought her out to the hall.

 

I closed the door and patted Lily on the head.

 

I told Lily everything was fine.

 

 

I think it is healthy to include the Grandparents.

 

 

I found Robert with Poppy visiting the puppies and Lily.

 

 

Lily is spending more time away from the puppies.

 

She nurses them often.

 

Poppy does stay all day and night on the bed watching.

 

I have Lily in her room with her puppies with the door closed.

 

I think Poppy needs a little fresh air!

 

 

Countess was taking a long nap.

 

She is so sweet!

 

 

Baxter was sleeping in late too.  She covered herself up!

 

Earl and Lady Violet was sound asleep.

 

It was a cold gloomy England day.

 

 

Lady Rose, red collar, on the left is much darker and fatter than the petite Baxter, aqua collar.

 

 

The puppies were up late last night searching Downton Abbey.

 

They were trying to find a fox they saw running through the dinning room.

 

They didn't find the fox or the skunk or the cat with the kittens.

 

 

Today is a good day for a nap!

 

Good night!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grandmother Poppy sat on my bed most of the day and slept there last night!

 

Yes I slept next to Poppy.

 

I would have never guessed in a million years Poppy would cuddle up with me.

 

She just loves to see those puppies and Lily in action!

 

Grandmother Poppy even puppy sat while Lily went downstairs!

 

 

Lady Violet, white collar, woke up early and headed downstairs to have hot tea.

 

She was sitting in her favorite chair by the fire sipping on Earl Grey when she heard a squeak.

 

She thought the chair was squeaking at first.

 

She realized the squeaks were coming from under the chair.

 

She was on her hands and knees in front of her chair.

 

She lifted up the chair's cover to see a beautiful litter of orange kittens with their Mother!

 

She smiled and was watching the kittens.

 

"Oh my goodness what a gift," she thought.

 

She returned with a bowl of milk for the Mother cat.

 

She promised to bring her a beautiful raw fish for lunch!

 

She would keep this a secret.  Her secret.

 

 

The family dined heartily last night on the milk of Lily.

 

The menu of the Mother:  Baked chicken, sweet potato souffle, green beans, kidney beans, tomatoes,

 

goat milk, and cottage cheese!

 

There was a lot of Pedigree dry dog food consumed by the Mother also.

 

Lily is looking healthy and happy.

 

 

Lady Edith, red puppy without a collar on right, returned from visiting London late last night.

 

She ate many delicacies.

 

She is a hearty young lady!

 

I just love her mahogany color.

 

 

Everyone was playing croquet in the afternoon.

 

Mr. Carson joined the game.

 

There was much laughter as Mr. Carson was heavy handed.

 

The ball was never recovered.

 

"Goodness Mr. Carson, I have never seen a croquet ball airborne!  I hope no one was injured!", said Earl of Grantham.

 

 

 

Refreshments were served after the game.

 

There was little conversation during the meal.

 

Everyone was so hungry and content.

 

Lady Violet brought a raw fish to the Mother cat just as she promised.

 

She named her cat, Brandy, after the color of her fur.

 

 

 

 

Patmore the Cook, decided to keep all of the live fowl received by the farmer a few days ago

 

in the kitchen pantry.

 

She was having a pen built in the yard but for now the 5 chickens, 1 turkey, and 1 goose, were

 

content with the large pantry.

 

The chickens roosted high on a broom.

 

The goose loved to nestle in a straw filled pot,

 

The turkey loved to lay on a rug.

 

Everyone was quiet except at dinner time.

 

 

Good night!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Patmore The Cook, green collar, asked Baxter, aqua collar, if she was successful catching

 

cats?

 

Baxter told her about luring 'cats' into a box using bacon.

 

"What did you do with these cats?" 

 

"I released them!" answered Baxter.

 

"Where?  Inside Downton Abbey?"

 

"Yes!  They ran everywhere!"

 

"Did they have sharp claws as I requested?"

 

"Yes, and one even had a lot of teeth!  Rows of teeth!"

 

"Are you sure they were cats?"

 

"It was very dark but I am sure they will all hunt mice!"

 

 

Mr. Carson woke up early.  He was reading the newspaper by the fire.

 

He heard Earl of Grantham's dog come into the room as he always does.

 

He reached down to pet the dog.

 

He thought the dog felt different.  Hmm longer hair maybe?

 

The dog smelled different too.  The dog didn't smell good.

 

He made a mental note to give the dog a bath later.

 

Mr. Carson was eating a biscuit when he heard a hiss!

 

What could that be?  

 

He looked over and there was a big fat skunk staring right at him!

 

There was no time to move.  The skunk sprayed him, grabbed his biscuit, and ran!

 

Mr. Carson screamed for help!

 

 

Baxter was the first to arrive on the scene.

 

Patmore the Cook came running.

 

Lady Rose thought she had missed a party!

 

Lady Mary smelled Mr. Carson and screamed.

 

The Countess fainted.

 

They all helped clean up Mr. Carson.

 

"What was it?" Countess asked.

 

But Mr. Carson was still in the state of shock.

 

 

Lady Edith decided it was a great time to head to London!

 

No one even noticed she left Downton Abbey!

 

 

After all of the morning excitement, Countess, orange collar, found a nice place to take a nap.

 

 

Baxter decided to find a place to hide. (on left blue/green collar)

 

Lady Rose comforted Mr. Carson (red collar).

 

 

Earl of Grantham wondered what animal was in the house still?

 

Could the animal be dangerous?  

 

Poor Mr. Carson!  

 

He couldn't believe Mr. Carson still could not talk.

 

 

Lady Violet, white collar, said, "It is not easy to get resiliency into our lives, but it is a quality too valuable to be lost."

 

Good night.

 

"Zinnia Gift" 5x7 oil on copper 350$ framed in gold or black with gold.

Shipping included in the price.

 

    I worked on this floral painting last night while the puppies were sleeping!

 

The zinnias were given to me by a friend.

 

 

Lily enjoyed the company of Grandmother Poppy and Grandfather Monet today.

 

I left the bedroom door open so the dogs could come and go.

 

Lily was happy with the arrangement.

 

She may have been getting lonely.

 

 

When I first woke up I found my Vermont plaid flannel pajamas in the pen!

 

How did this happen?  

 

I don't remember doing this?

 

 

It seemed like many of the puppies curled up with the plaid pajamas!

 

Maybe Mr. Carson arranged this?

 

Here is Lady Rose drifting off the sleep!

 

 

The Countess was found way up high in the pen!  

 

"I think I saw a mouse!" 

 

 

Everyone scurried around searching for the mouse.

 

"The mouse was captured Countess,"  said Earl of Grantham!

 

"Thank you!" she said

 

Lady Violet asked Earl, "Why did you lie to her?"

 

"Oh Lady Violet!  We just need peace!  I can not stand all the drama!  Besides is only a mouse!"

 

"I doubt a mouse could be in Downton Abbey?"

 

 

The Countess mumbled, "It was a mouse!  I did see a mouse!  No one will believe me."

 

"The next time I see the mouse, I will capture it, and show everyone!"

 

"Right now I think I should take a nap."

 

 

Patmore the Cook overheard the conversation about mice being in Downton Abbey.

 

She thought about the mice she had accidentally allowed into the kitchen when she

 

accepted the live poultry from the local farmer.

 

"I hope they don't discover my blunder! They might not install my new gas stove!"

 

"A few cats should take care of the situation."

 

"Yes, Yes, that is it!"

 

 

Later that day, Patmore the Cook was seen talking with Baxter the Maid.

 

"Baxter!  I want you to go downtown to find 5 cats for the Abbey.

 

Don't tell anyone about the cats.  You must keep it a secret!"

 

"Cats?" she said.

 

"What kind of cats?  What color?  What size?  Kittens?"

 

"Any cat with sharp claws!" replied Patmore the Cook.

 

"No, I won't do it!  I will lose my job! They will fire me!" she said.

 

Patmore The Cook replied, "If you don't bring me back five cats I will tell the

 

Countess about the brooch I found in your room!"

 

Baxter left the abbey in hot pursuit of many cats.

 

 

Lily looks so pleased.

 

 

 

Good night!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Sunflower" 7x5 oil on copper   Sold.  Thank you.

 

After Lily's fifth dinner for the day, I set up another sunflower still life, and painted

 

for six hours!

 

Painting a still life well takes a lot of time.

 

I repainted petals, changed their position, and softened areas.

 

I painted the mason jar at least 7 times.

 

I decided to paint a petal falling on the right.  

 

 

Grandmother Poppy has not eaten her breakfast in six days.

 

She eats a light dinner.

 

She stands in front of my bedroom door talking morning, afternoon, and night

 

just hoping to gain entrance.

 

She loves to be near Lily and the puppies.

 

 

Patmore the cook took the day off.

 

She has beautiful black pigment in her nose and pads of her feet.

 

 

Mr. Carson took his black collar off.

 

He had a little sore from the collar's sharp edge.

 

The little sore is gone now.

 

Countess, orange collar, was complimenting the dinner last night.

 

Lily ate a lot of chicken livers, sweet potato, carrots, kidney beans, tomato, and dry pedigree puppy food.

 

The puppies were noticeably more mobile today.

 

They were taking lots of naps too.

 

 

I really liked this photo.

 

Lily was listening to one of them squealing.

 

I think Countess is the lightest.  She has the peach collar on the right.

 

 

The Countess looks so content.

 

 

I wanted to see which female puppy was the darkest red.

 

It looks like Patmore the Cook, green collar, Violet, white collar, and Lady Rose, red collar

 

all seem to be the same dark red.

 

 

Lady Violet, white collar, was hear talking to The Countess, orange collar, and Baxter, turquoise collar.

 

She said to them:  "No life appears rewarding if you think about it too much!"

 

"You are so wise Lady Violet. "  

 

 

All is well at the Downton Abbey.

 

The puppies are quiet for a few hours while they sleep at night.

 

I am able to sleep for a few hours when they sleep!

 

They whimper when they scramble for a place at the dinner table.

 

Lily is the most gentle Mother I have seen.

 

She goes outside 8 times a day now for a break but runs back to her litter.

 

Good night!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Sunny Bliss" 7x5 oil on copper  Sold.  Thank you.

 

   I managed to paint this still life last night when things calmed down!

 

 

Lady Rose was talking sweet to Earl of Grantham.

 

He finally said, "What is it I can help you with Lady Rose?"

 

She asked him if she might be allowed to go to an overnight Jazz party?

 

"Absolutely Not!  I can see it ending in a scandal!"

 

"You don't even have your eyes open yet and can not walk!"

 

 

Patmore the Cook, green collar, was sucking on the back of Earl of Grantham's neck!

 

The Countess of Grantham turned her head!  

 

Earl finally asked, "What is it I can do for you Mrs. Patmore?"

 

"I was wondering if a new gas stove might be ordered for our kitchen?"  

 

"Yes, he said, only if you cook more of the vanilla souffle I love so much!"

 

"I dislike progress but I do love how you cook!"

 

 

Grandmother Poppy talks outside of my bedroom.

 

I let her inside to view the puppies.

 

She loves to see them.

 

 

At a reasonable hour, 10:00am, visitors entered my bedroom.

 

They had just been to the beach!

 

Robert had the day off.

 

He pet Lily and positioned a few puppies.

 

Monet and Poppy sat on my bed.

 

Monet barks.

 

Robert told him he must be quiet in the nursery.

 

We have heard a few of the puppies mimic his bark!

 

 

Lady Edith is a beauty.

 

Here nose and pads of her feet are getting darker.

 

Soon they will be black.

 

 

Lady Mary was wearing a strand of pearls.

 

She asked Baxter what she thought of them?

 

Baxter said she loved them.

 

 

Lady Edith climbed on top of a towel. (on the right)

 

 

Lady Edith is very brave!

 

Goodnight.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Stonington Roof Top View" 14x20 oil on copper 950$ framed in gold or black with gold.

Shipping is included in the price.

 

Just finished this painting last night while the puppies were sleeping.

 

 

It was quiet last night with the puppies.

 

They squealed when they tried to find a place to eat.

 

They knew how to get back to Lily.

 

Lily was content taking care of her puppies.

 

She even went outside briefly three times!

 

She visited Robert's bedroom where Poppy and Monet were sleeping.

 

Lily was wagging her tail in a circle (propeller tail).

 

She does propeller tail when she is extremely happy.

 

Above shows Lady Rose, Lady Edith, with Baxter.

 

They were gossiping.

 

I could not hear when they were talking about.

 

 

The Countess, orange collar, was chatting with Lady Edith, yellow collar, about her missing brooch.

 

Do you think Baxter has the brooch?  

 

Oh no.  She would not take the brooch.

 

I am sure the brooch with show up.

 

Let's hope so!  

 

 

Earl of Grantham noticed it was much brighter in Downton Abbey.

 

He asked everyone, "Was electricity installed without my knowledge?

 

First they put in electricity, we have a telephone, what is next?"

 

 

He told Lady Violet, "It's like we are living in a H.G. Wells novel!"

 

"I dislike progress!"

 

Lady Violet responded, "Life is a series of changes and problems which we much endure and try to solve."

 

 

I picked up one of them last night to pet.

 

Lady Mary, blue collar, sniffed my hand and didn't cry.

 

She enjoyed being petted just for a minute.

 

I will handle them more tomorrow.

 

I don't want to stress them.

 

Learning to eat, learning the layout of the pen, and getting to know Lily is enough for four days.

 

 

They are all nicely plump including Lily.

 

I have been paying close attention to the temperature of the room.

 

The room temperature needs to be between 85 degrees to 90 degrees.

 

This is for the first four days of their lives. 

 

Then the temperature may be lowered to 80 degrees.

 

If the temperature is too cold, their digestive systems stop working, and they pass away.

 

I have a little oil filled radiator heater near them on low.

 

I watch for shivering of their fur.

 

They look warm and well fed.

 

They look healthy.

 

Good night.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

At 5:00am in the morning I awoke to having visitors in my bedroom.

 

Monet, the grandfather of the puppies, jumped onto my bed.

 

Poppy, the grandmother, came in with Robert by her side.

 

Lily seemed was happy to see the visitors.

 

All night long the puppies were feasting!

 

 

Earl was heard saying he felt like he was at a Polish wedding last night!

 

He said he was going to try to have more self control!

 

 

Lady Edith, yellow collar, was chatting to Baxter, aqua collar.

 

What an amazing party!

 

I wonder what will happen tonight?

 

Baxter, have you seen Countess of Grantham's brooch?

 

 

 

Lady Rose, red collar gave Baxter, aqua collar, a kiss!

 

 

Countess, orange collar, was telling Patmore the Cook, green collar, how wonderful the food

 

and milk was last night!

 

Patmore the Cook, told her thank you.  Glad she was pleased.

 

 

Lily ate many meals all throughout the night.

 

She enjoyed the Pedigree dry puppy food mixed with the stew.

 

The puppies were wild last night!

 

I was glad to see them so content.

 

Lady Violet, white collar, mumbled, "I am glad only family was present during last night's

 

escapades.  We do not need the media shaming the family name!"

 

Lady Rose was screaming at the top of her lungs late last night.

 

Lady Rose was stuck underneath her Mom Lily.

 

I rescued her.

 

Lady Violet, shouted:

 

"Oh the noise and drama of it all!  When will we sleep?"

 

 

At last there was sleep.  Good night.

 

 

Here is the painting on my easel.  14x20 oil on copper.

 

I have been working on it when I get a chance.

 

I need to make sure all the vertical lines are straight!

 

Still more work to do.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grandmother Poppy did not eat her breakfast.

 

She wanted to see the puppies so bad!

 

I opened my bedroom door, reassured Lily it was ok, and motioned to Poppy to jump on the bed,

 

the stadium seating for viewing puppies.

 

She quickly hopped up onto the bed.

 

I sat next to Poppy.

 

Lily pretended Poppy was not in the room.

 

Poppy gazed intently at the pups.

 

When one of the puppies would squeal, Poppy looked away, just in case Lily looked up!

 

 

Then Poppy ate her breakfast.

 

The most exciting event in Poppy's life was having her puppies.

 

I can understand her need to visit her Daughter Lily's pups.

 

When Poppy came downstairs from visiting, she excited barked many times, telling Monet all about it!

 

Monet barked back.

 

 

The puppies have grown over night!

 

 I slept next to Lily and the puppies.

 

The puppies were very talkative all night long.

 

I turned on my flashlight when I heard a puppy squeal.

 

I would place the puppy back with the group.

 

Their main desire is to drink milk.

 

They try to find the best position.

 

The males, Mr. Carson and Earl seem to prefer diving under everyone to drink.

 

Mr. Carson is not seen very often except for his feet sticking out.

 

Earl is often seen relaxing.

 

 

Maybe Mr. Carson brings up a nice glass of milk for Earl of Grantham during the night.

 

"Mr. Carson!  Mr. Carson!  More milk please!"

 

 

Patmore The Cook, green collar, was seen heading out to shop for food.

 

She became lost and returned to the group.

 

She never cried during her journey.

 

 

Then Patmore the Cook snuggled up to her Mom's arm.

 

Lady Rose, red collar, welcomed her return.

 

 

Every puppy looks content.

 

They bellies are full.

 

Lily went outside only once, she was vocal, and ran back upstairs.

 

She ate a large bowl of chicken with sweet potatoes last night.

 

This morning she had Mulligan's Stew:  ground pork, ground turkey, ten vegetables, coconut oil, without

 

the tumeric.  

 

She likes for me to bring a bowl to her.

 

I bring a bowl of water for Lily every hour.

 

I also take out the linens three times to day and replenish with fresh linens.

 

She loves to have a clean area for her puppies.

 

This is Downton Abbey you know!

 

Mr. Carson keeps a tight ship!

 

Lady Violet says:  I would expect only the best during these times.

 

Good night!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I am so excited Lily's puppies have arrived!

 

The adventure started two nights ago when Lily started to pant and scratch around her bed.

 

Robert and I quickly made sure Lily's baby pool was ready in his room upstairs.

 

 

Poppy jumped into the nest right away.

 

I had to leash her up and remove her!

 

Then Monet jumped into the baby pool.

 

Lily just watched.

 

 

Monet thought he would be fine laying next to Lily while she had her puppies.

 

We thought this was so cute.

 

 

Finally we decided to move Lily's pool into my room where she would have privacy.

 

 

The first puppy to be born was Lady Rose at 2:10am.

 

She marched around looking for the dining room!

 

She was very energetic.

 

She is a red golden and will wear a red collar.

 

 

Lily loved seeing the first puppy.  

 

She spent an hour cleaning and admiring her.

 

 

Monet heard the puppy squealing and forced the door open.

 

He leaped onto my bed to view the scene.

 

He started to get emotional.

 

He actually whined and cried out.

 

Lily growled.  

 

Monet barked in a very telling way when he couldn't stay.

 

At 3:30am Mr. Carson, (black collar) was born.

 

He seemed to be very hungry.

 

Lady Rose and Mr. Carson crawled around together asking when was dinner?

 

Baxter, a lighter girl puppy was born at 5:10am. (Aqua collar)

 

Countess of Grantham (peach collar) was born at 5:30am.

 

Earl of Grantham (purple collar) was born at 6:05am.

 

Lady Violet (white collar) was born at 6:30am.

 

Lady Mary (light blue collar) was born at 6:31am.

 

Lady Edith (yellow collar) was born at 6:45am.

 

Patmore the Cook (green collar) was born at 8:55am.

 

There was a total of 9 healthy puppies.

 

Two males; Seven females.

 

The service help names were given to all the puppies who were born downstairs!

 

The heirs to Downton Abbey were given to any puppy who was burn upstairs.

 

 

Lily is being a wonderful Mother!

 

I knew she would be great.

 

 

I was with Lily in my bedroom watching her puppies.

 

The bedroom door opened.

 

There was Grandmother Poppy looking at the puppies.

 

She was so beautiful.

 

Was she wishing she had been nicer to those boys at the breeder's house?

 

 

Earl (purple collar) is spoken for.

 

Earl will live with his family in Vermont when he is eight weeks old.

 

I hear they have a two year old golden retriever who will love Earl.

 

I am going to sleep/watch puppies early tonight!

 

Good night.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Zinnia Parade" 5x7 oil on copper  Sold.  Thank you.

 

    Robert came home early for work and suggested I paint outside while I could!

 

I was out the door in ten minutes.

 

I was going to Stonington then I changed my mind and drove to Mount Desert Island.

 

Charlotte Rhoades Garden had beautiful zinnias to paint.

 

I painted fast, worked two hours, and drove home!

 

 

I selected this beautiful zinna to be the 'star' of my show.

 

I made this zinnia largest with most detail.

 

 

Next I painted in a yellow zinnia, and an orange zinnia, and continued to grow my garden.

 

 

While I was painting, hummingbirds swirled around me fighting a giant moth off.

 

Beautiful monarch butterflies flew by and landed on different zinnias.

 

Children visiting the garden asked me many questions.

They had not heard of oil paints.

 

I tried my best to describe the difference.

 

 

Here is my painting and the zinnia inspiration.

 

Before I left, I took a look at the photo, added a few leaves to cover up the stem on the left.

 

One stem on the right of the pink zinnia was enough.

 

 

Here is Lily last night.

 

She didn't seem interested in her dinner.

 

 

  She ate half of her dinner.

 

 

Lily posing under the apple tree.

 

She ate a piece of french baguette.

 

She turned up her nose at a store bought early red apple.

 

Lily prefers 2.49$ Honey Crisp apples not early red ones.

 

For lunch she ate a small handful of turkey.

 

Her stomach is smaller from the pressure of the growing puppies.

 

Mother dogs eat smaller meals.

 

 

Lily is getting larger.  She is on the left.  Monet is on the right.

 

 

Monet made me laugh last night.

 

 

We are all getting Lily's baby pool ready with newspaper and towels and a quilt.

 

Any day or night there will be more puppies in the house!

 

I hope they are healthy.

 

Good night.

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Everything In It's Right Place" 14x20 oil on copper Sold.  Thank you.

 

I have been working on this painting the last few days.

 

I was so pleased to hear Robert say it was a great painting as he was off to bed.

 

 

Here is a detail photo.

 

I first painted the sky a very warm yellow to warm red.

 

Then I painted a light pink over this yellow to create a very luminous sky.

 

 

I used almost pure white on the sunlit area of the laundry on the right.

 

I wanted the pillow slip to really stand out.

 

The translucent light of the sheet could not be as light as the sunlit area.

 

The bright white sunlit area was very light compared to the back lit area.

 

I painted many different reds and golds into the grass area to balance the different greens.

 

 

 

Here is the first days efforts.

 

I drew the painting with a number 6 short round brush with a neutral color of oil from the

 

combination of Cobalt Blue and Cadmium Red Light.  

 

Someone asked me if I use Burnt Sienna or Burnt Umber.

 

No, I don't have these two colors on my palette.

 

I use only four colors to paint:  Cobalt Blue, Cadmium Red Light, Cadmium Yellow Light, and Quinacridone Red.

 

I prefer Titanium White.  That is it!

 

 

Lily should have puppies this next week.  

 

She is doing very well having small meals every few hours.

 

This morning she had a breakfast with ground pork, ground turkey, light kidney beans,

 

peas, sweet potato, olive oil.

 

She had a piece of french baguette and a slice of a honey crisp apple for a afternoon snack.

 

She wags her tail and is enjoying light back massages.

 

Poppy and Monet were digging giant caverns in the backyard for Lily to have her pups.

 

I barricaded two large holes by the firewood stack with wood and metal chairs.

 

Then Lily and Monet went under the staircase.

 

Lily made a weak attempt at digging a hole there.

 

She gave up digging but Monet got the message and started to dig like a wolf!

 

I shook my head and let him dig.

 

Robert brought home a baby pool for her to have pups.

 

I am staying close to home.

 

We take short walks in the backyard.

 

Robert takes Monet and Poppy to the beach at night.

 

We are keeping Lily at home for her safety.

 

I am so excited there might be puppies in the house soon!

 

I sure hope all will be healthy and Lily will be safe.

 

Good luck everyone with the hurricane.

 

Good night.

 

Thank you for the painting sale.