This is not my first litter, but it almost feels that way. There's a different level of nerves and excitement as this is Belle's first litter and that in itself is very special. Acquiring Belle, meeting Nancy Gagnon of Buff Cap, and benefiting from her ongoing support and mentorship have taken me in new and exciting directions. We've traveled to two ASCA Nationals shows, and are anticipating our third in September, to Wisconsin. Having a bitch of Belle's quality and pedigree, not to mention the wonderful opportunity to breed to Bodie (ASCA/AKC Grand Champion Hearthside's Nothing To Lose), has me VERY excited about the future and what I dream of experiencing with this new premiere generation of Casselcreek puppies. But first, I need to get through the new few days!
With just only a few "sleeps" to go until she whelps, I'm excited ... and nervous, and nerves don't usually come into play when I'm ready to whelp a litter. But this is my Bellie-Button, Belle-Belle, Bellie-girl we're talking about and yep, I'm nervous! Our new deluxe whelping box is set up and the puppy pool has been retired, I've made multiple "wedgewood blue" (fit for a Princess) fleece blankies to line it with, have my stack of old towels ready, the scale, and all the birth and weight record sheets ready to start completing ... and the freezer stocked with vanilla ice cream. I think we're ready. Belle has sailed through this pregnancy and is the picture of health, her coat has never been more beautiful (though she's totally shedding now), and she has that maternal "glow" about her. Weight gain has been steady and she's loved every meal I've offered ... so much easier than Paisley who all but gave up on eating during her pregnancy. 
We've visited the repro vet for a quick radiograph to count skeletons and check positions, and now it's just a matter of X-ing off the days on the calendar ... and watching the skies for the stork to appear. Happy Trails ... Theresa
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