Hi Yvonne & Dave:

Thought you might enjoy a few pictures of the birthday boy!!  It is hard to believe he was 1 year old this week.  Still a puppy - just a huge one.  He is well over 70 lb. and still growing.  Our vet just keeps reminding us he will be huge.

Bailey is awesome with our grandchildren now that they are getting used to his size.  We spent 2 weeks with  our 5 grandchildren in Nelson this summer.  Bailey thought the youngest, twins who are 18 months, were a food source.  He always greeted them with kisses and Matthew decided he should grab his tongue whenever Bailey started to lick.  He was very tolerant.  Shelby, the other twin, spent much of her time on the beach putting sand on Bailey's nose.  He would just look at us and give us the message that he was being a 'very good boy'.

As you can see from the attached photos, be is much loved.  The other grandchild in the photos is our 4 year old grand daughter, Summer.  She has always been frightened of him but 2 weeks together was a big step forward.  She would ask if Bailey was being calm and then come and give him a big love,

Bailey has been taking Agility Training.  He is not the most graceful in the class but he keeps everyone amused.  He will be very focused on the task until he spots another dog he might want to play with.  Then he has a 1 track mind.  Good thing he is so fond of cheese.  He will do anything for cheese - even climb over a bridge, jump a hurdle or jump through a tire.

Thanks for making him such a good traveler.  His favorite spot to sleep is in the garage where it is cooler.  We are suspicious that it is mostly because he doesn't want anyone to go anywhere without him.

For his first birthday we introduced him to the off leash park.  We have been there every day since - he understands the words 'dog park' already.  He is having a great time playing with all the other dogs regardless of size.  It is such a pleasure to have a dog who is so playful and not in the least aggressive. 

Thanks again for giving Bailey such a good start in life.  Whenever we are asked about him we tell them about how happy we are and recommend you and Sue

Regards,

Ginny and Lindsay Dowdle