Julia Goes For Her NW3

Been awhile since I've checked in. Since Logan passed away last year, I've stepped back a tad from photography and engaged with my other dog Julia. During Logan's illness, she kind of took a backseat. 

Prior to moving to Florida, Julia and I were involved in the sport of canine nose work, also known as scent work. We have competed with the National Association of Canine Scent Work (NACSW). Julia has her NW1 and NW2 titles. Before leaving California, we tried for her NW3 title but weren't ready. We came up way short.

Just last month we competed in the NACSW NW3 down in Tequesta, Florida. Again, we fell short but improved tremendously. We found 6 of 9 hides for 72.92 on the day. Not enough to title (100.00 needed) but a fun day none the less. We were successful in the containers and vehicles. We missed 1 hide on the interiors and 2 hides on the exteriors. Always a learning experience. We'll get em' next time. Very proud of my girl.

Below are video's of our searches that day. Interiors were not filmed. We'll be competing in the AKC Scent Work Trials in Daytona Beach, Florida next month. 

California Excursion

After nearly 3 years living in Florida, I was finally able to make it back for a quick excursion to California. A place I called home for 26 years and found that I still miss it like crazy. It's such a melting pot of people, excellent food, cool places, and scenic landscapes. The journey was way overdue and it was great to see old friends too.

California's Highway 1 - Central Coast

California's Highway 1 - Central Coast

I visited several familiar places in Long Beach, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, San Pedro, Santa Barbara, Pismo Beach, Morro Bay, Cambria, San Simeon and Big Sur.  I also checked out a few places that I had either wanted to see or haven't even heard of.

While in San Simeon I've always wanted to see Piedras Blancas Light Station up close and never had the chance. Tours are available on certain days. I also went to the amazing Montana De Oro State Park. Go, both are totally worth it! My only regret is that I wasn't able to visit either at sunrise or sunset. Plans just didn't pan out.

Below are just a few of the photos during my trek. I'll be visiting again sooner than later and it won't be 3 years this time. Hope you enjoy. 

Logan - Until We Meet Again

Logan "Artistry's Long Time Coming"

Sunrise February 26, 2007 - Sunset August 12, 2017

My best friend Logan passed away peacefully at home with Julia and me by his side. After a few years of health issues, I was faced with making the hardest decision of my life. It was a very sad day but I know he's in a better place and is now at peace.

I can't believe it's been 17 sunrises since I said goodbye to my boy. I know time will heal and he'll live in my heart forever but there's an emptiness, a piece of me has gone with him. Logan was the inspiration for my photography after years of not pressing the shutter button. Nothing can take the place of my dear Logan. I miss him so much. 

Run free my baby boy... until we meet again.

Logan's Birthday Video 2017 - Through the Years