First Few Months

One of the first people that met Cracker was his 'Aunt' Wendy.  He grew to love her and would get so excited when she came to visit.  This was his first full day at his new home.

Of course, like any 'baby', Cracker loved to sleep.  He would play and run so much while awake, that he would end up falling asleep just about anywhere.

Next to the fireplace was a metal container for firewood.  Cracker took this over and it became his 'bed' when he wanted a cool place to nap.

Whether it was on Jenn's wrist, by the fireplace or on the bed with 'Daddy', he would simply pass out for awhile.

But, sleeping wasn't all the little guy would do.  There was a whole new world to discover and he took a great deal of pleasure exploring it.  There were times when 'Mommy' would try to 'pose' him with one of his toys.  Initially, he didn't seem to mind.

 

But, if Mom didn't stop soon enough, he would turn around to let her know that 'Enough is enough, Mom!'

There were two others living in this new home of his.  Sweetie and Goldie were two cockatiel's that got to welcome the newest family member.  But, everyone kept their distance for the introductions.

Shortly after the intro's, Cracker and Sweetie decided to get to know each other on a more personal level.  But, the proper distance remained.

Of course, after a very busy first day, the baby needed a nap.  This time with one of his favorite 'buddies'.

Where Can I Go... a life without

Where Can I Go
'... a life without'

Have you ever seen a Shetland Sheepdog?  Do you even know what one looks like?

To begin with, no one 'owns' a Shetland Sheepdog. That is a simple fact of life that needs to be established right in the beginning. Oh, you may pay money to a breeder or pet store clerk but, if you think for one moment YOU own the dog... well, you are in for a shock. It may take awhile for this fact to sink in but you will learn the lesson.

I must start at the beginning and work my way through the years. This will probably be a little disconnected, at times, perhaps even a little disorganized. But, when it comes to The Sheltie, there isn't always 'order'. Just beauty, love, devotion and a companion by your side that demands nothing but to be loved.

Cracker Tintner-Bishop was born on July 4, 1997. He had two brothers and two sisters. But, because he was the smallest of the five, the others had pushed him to the side. While they would play, romp and tug at each others ears and tails... this little guy would sit in the back and watch the fun and games. As people would look into the play pen, the others would jump up on the side and demand attention. But, not Cracker. He sat near the back with a smile that would melt anyone's heart.

Jane called me from across the room, "Ed, look at this little Sheltie puppy."  In case it isn't obvious to you, her heart was instantly 'melted' and, unknown to me right then, the deal was sealed.

Never having had a pet, well maybe I had a frog one time but I think he finally 'croaked'. Okay, bad joke. But, it gives you an idea of the extent of my exposure to pets.

Jane talked with one of the people and expressed a desire for this little guy. With that, we returned home to 'discuss' the possibility of 'buying' a puppy. There really was no contest or discussion. The love of my life knew that with only a very few exceptions,  I couldn't deny her requests.

On August 29, 1997, Cracker received his name. What else could you name a puppy born on the 4th of July?  Believe me when I tell you, he was a full fledged 'fire'Cracker.

As we were leaving the Puppy Barn, Jane announced that we were going to Bradlees or K Mart to get the things our new family member would need.

The first visitor to meet our new 'baby' was his 'sister-in-law' Jenn. They played on the floor until the little guy was exhausted. At that point, he fell asleep on her arm...