Hello:

I am going to go to an all dobe show on Sunday in my area--well it's 1 to 1 1/2 hrs. away and I'm driving.  I'm sure there probably has to be a way up there by train and/or bus, but that would take too long and I do like to drive.  I am unsure of getting there without getting lost.  No, no, I don't need directions.  I had some people telling me several ways of getting there, but I wanted the most direct way and think the way I am going to go is best for me.  I should be somewhat familiar with it because I have inlaws living upstate or just outside of the Bronx and about one stop past the stop for City Island.  The show is in Spring Valley, N.Y. in the Spring Valley H.S.  So far there are going to be 50 dobies there--that is, if you are just counting the contestants.  I'm going to make sure I get a few dober kisses before I leave that show.  That will have to hold me over till I get my own pup. 

And a special big thanks to the people on this site, because I am slowly realizing some wishes.  Because of that help, I have been conversing with some show folks and will meet many of them in Spring Valley.  I now belong to another forum where I am able to meet some of the breeders around my area, my area meaning tri-state and maybe a bit beyond.  Many of us are going to the show wearing a blue ribbon around their wrists so we can all meet in person.

Oh, and about my smoking, I have all but stopped.  I am guilty of taking a few puffs every week or so.  And I had saved $400 in 4 weeks; however, I had to end up spending it on a plane flight to the area where my mother lives in Oklahoma.  She fell and broke her hip and had to have it replaced and she has some severe heart problems.  But as long as I don't buy any packs of ciggies, it will be no time before I even exceed that amount.  I am figuring that I should save at least $7,000 to achieve a good part of my dream--the dog, fencing of the yard, buying a crate, toys, coat, shots, insurance plan, and something put away for any contingencies.  And I will still have the $100 a week I am saving by not smoking.  Well, enough of that, I've got to go to dinner.