It Is Almost Showtime!!

I am so excited to see all the hard work coming together for The Dog Who Saved The Nutcracker. 

The Following are the Performances Dates & Time

Friday, November 30^th at 7:30 pm

Saturday, December 1^st at 7:30 pm

Sunday, December 2^nd at 2:30 pm

Friday, December 7^th at 7:30 pm

Saturday, December 8^th at 7:30 pm

Sunday, December 8^th at 2:30 pm

 

To purchase your tickets go to http://www.whartonplazatheatre.org/  

 We are looking forward to seeing each of you at The Plaza Theatre.

Candy Haystacks

Ingredients
11-ounce bag of butterscotch chips/morsels (2 cups)
1 cup of creamy peanut butter
8-ounce can of salted peanuts and/or cashew nuts (1 1/2 cups)
5-ounce can of chow mein noodles (2 1/2 cups)
 

Directions

1. Mix butterscotch chips and peanut butter together in a large, microwave-safe bowl.

2. Microwave this mixture at 50% power for 5 minutes.  Set timer at 1-minute

intervals; take bowl out of oven and stir after every minute, until chips are melted.

3. Add nuts and noodles to melted chips and peanut butter mixture.  Stir until

all are coated.

4. Drop mixture by tablespoons on baking sheets (making haystacks) that have

been lined with waxed paper.

5. Place baking sheets with candy in refrigerator to “set” for 15-20 minutes.

6. Enjoy- -and store leftovers in refrigerator or in airtight containers at room

temperature.

7. This recipe makes approximately 3 dozen candy haystacks.

 

HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS

Short, soft & flexible costume accessories

Avoid trick-or-treating alone

Fasten reflective tape to costumes & bags

Examine all treats before eating them

Hold a flashlight while trick-or-treating

Always test make-up in a small area first

Look both ways before crossing the street

Lower your risk of injury by staying alert

Only walk on sidewalks or the far edge of the road

Wear well-fitting masks, costumes & shoes

Eat only factory-wrapped treats

Enter homes only if you’re with a trusted adult

Never walk near lit candles

Www.cdc.gov

 

It's All coming Together

It's all coming together for The Dog Who Saved "The Nutcracker." Some great kids auditioned for parts in the musical; the casting is now being completed will be posted this week. I am blessed to have so many talented individuals be a part of this excting project with me. I want to say "Thank You" for all the love and support of my many Friends. I can't wait for opening night on Friday, November 30th!

Scout's Fun Fruit Dip

I hope everyone has had a great start to the new school year. I want to share with you a super after-school snack that I know you will love.

Fun Fruit Dip

1 Jar Marshmallow Creme

1 Tub Whipped Cream Cheese

1/4 Cup Strawberry Jam

Simply mix all the ingredients in a medium bowl, and serve with your favorite fruit slices.

This yummy snack will give just the "pick-me-up" you need!

Love,

Scout

Scout, The Dog Who Saved "The Nutcracker"

Open auditions for The Dog Who Saved "The Nutcracker" will be held Sunday, September 9, and Tuesday, September 11, 6:00 p.m., at the Plaza Theatre in Wharton.  Performances will be November 30, December 1, 2, 7, 8 and 9, 2012. 

The World Premiere of this new musical is based on Wharton author Marilyn Sebesta's charming children's book, Scout, The Dog Who Saved "The Nutcracker;" it includes delightful original music by Houston composer Suzanne Davis Marion, as well as traditional dance music from The Nutcracker.  Candyce Byrne adapted the book to the stage production, which will be directed by Amber Barbee.

Susanna lives in a small town much like Wharton with her parents, her brother Charley and her best pal Scout, a lovable but clumsy chocolate-brown Labrador retriever.  Scout joins Susznna and Charley and their friends in ballet class, getting ready for the town's first-ever production of The Nutcracker.  Mice from the neighboring feed store invade the dress rehearsal looking for the Mouse King; Scout's clever response earns her a starring role in the show. 

Part of the proceeds of this production will benefit Wharton County S.P.O.T. (Stray Pet Outreach Team), a volunteer animal rescue organization.  Roles are available for adults and youth ages 7 and older.  For more information and updates, go to www.whartonplazatheatre.org. 

Wharton Plaza Theatre

You Know What I Mean

How many of you can tell exactly what your dog is thinking, with just a bark or certain wag of the tail?  This is a special language between man and man’s best friend that only they understand.  It could be as simple as the change in a bark.  When someone arrives at your home and when the dog wants a snack, the bark is noticeably different.  I have one friend that can tell her mom that she needs to go outside with just a paw.  The tail of a dog says so much if you just pay attention.  When your dogs’ tails are going crazy when you get home, you know they are excited to see you.  When their tails start swinging after you ask them a question, you know that means “yes”.  Don’t forget to pay attention to the eyes.  They show you that they are listening to hear and understand everything that you are saying.  It is amazing how great of a conversation you can have with a creature that does not speak a traditional word at all.  Listen to what your best friend has to say--you will be amazed!!  Love…Scout!!

Part of the Family

How many of you have to find vacation accommodations that allow pets so the all the family members can attend?  I bet this is a “yes” for most of you.  When planning your summer vacation, it is simple to make these plans.  Oftentimes lodging websites have it posted if it is a pet-friendly location.  If it is not listed, be sure to confirm when booking your reservations.  You don’t want to be miles and miles away from home and not be able to bring your pet in.  You also need to prepare for travel and room arrangements for your pet.  Be sure to pack bowls, food, leash, kennel or any other comforts of home that will make your pet’s trip comfortable.   I hope you all have great summer vacations and enjoy every minute with the whole family.  Love…Scout!!

The Doggie Paddle

The pool is not just for people anymore.  With all the hot weather here in Texas, staying cool is very important.  Most dogs love to be in the water.  They can even teach a human a thing or two... "The Doggie Paddle".  I know that not everyone has a full size pool in their back yard, but there are options to provide cool water for your pet.  A plastic kiddie pool is perfect for the dogs.  It is just deep enough for large dogs to cover themselves when they lie down.  Some of my small dog friends like to use the water bowl.  You can use a slightly larger bowl for the water giving them just enough room to jump in and cool off.  Stay Cool!!...Scout

The Dates Have Been Set

The dates have been set for the Scout musical this December.  Mark your calendars for November 30 and December 1, 2, 7, 8 and 9.  “The Dog Who Saved The Nutcracker” will be presented at the downtown Plaza Theater.  This is a wonderful time to come out and watch the story come to life.  I want to invite each of you to join the fun as a cast member or many other important jobs of the production.  More information will be available as we get closer.  I am looking forward to watching the story move from the page to the stage! …Scout

The End Is Here

It is really hard to believe that the school year is over.  Time goes by so quickly.  It is important to stay active and keep reading during the summer.   Most communities have a number of activities to keep kids busy and safe.  The YMCA, the Boys & Girls Club and the local libraries do a really great job with summer programming.  These places offer a safe environment for children to continue to learn and stay active over the summer.  Check it out in your town and have a great summer!!!

Scout….

Hot, Hot, Hot!!!!

With temperatures rising all the time, it is very important to remember your pets.  I have provided a few tips for you to use this summer.

Warm Weather Pet Care Tips

*Do not leave your pet in a parked vehicle at any time

*Decrease exercise levels on hot, humid days

*Take morning or evening walks

*Provide shade and shelter for outdoor pets

*Provide cool, fresh water

*Provide adequate ventilation in kennels or carriers

Signs of heat exhaustion & heat stroke

*Excessive, heavy panting

*High fever

*Rapid heartbeat

*Weakness

I hope you have a great summer.

(Seasonal Pet Care Tips from S.P.O.T,)

Scout….

Birthday Bash

Last year I celebrated my 10th birthday.  I was blessed to have an awesome party with "dog" ice cream and many, many great friends.  You can check out my Facebook page for pictures.  There are a number of things you can do to celebrate with your pet.  Buster, a close friend of mine, had a special sausage cake his mom made for him.  I bet it was great.  There are a number of recipes that are just for dogs.  Try the recipe below for your four legged friend.

"Good Dog" Biscuits (for your canine pal)
2 1/2 to 3 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup dry powdered milk
1 cup wheat germ
4 eggs, beaten
4 (2.5 oz.) jars baby food (all alike-beef, chicken, sweet potato, etc.)
1 egg, beaten

Mix together dry powered milk and wheat germ in a large bowl.  Add 4 beaten eggs and 4 jars baby food; mix well.  Add flour (1/2 cup at a time), mixing well after each addition.  Continue to add flour until a dough forms.  Roll out with rolling pin (about 1/4-inch thick); use cookie cutters and/or pizza wheel to cut out shapes.  Place biscuits on greased cookie sheets and then brush biscuits with beaten egg.  Bake at 350 degrees for 22-25 minutes or until biscuits are golden brown; makes approximately 4 dozen treats.

Scout's Pals

I want to take a minute to invite you and all your friends to join "Scout's Pals". It is really easy to do. Visit my website at www.scoutthelovablelab.com and click on "Join Scout's Pals". You might need some help from an adult to complete your membership. With your membership, you will have special access to games, recipes and coloring pages on the website. Members will receive the follow: *a special "Scout's Scoop" quarterly newsletter *wallet-size, laminated membership card *full-size membership certificate *paw shaped key chain. I cannot wait for you to become my pall.

Love Scout!!

Spring Has Sprung

This is such a beautiful time of year! It's a great chance for children and their dogs to get outside and have some fun--it will be good for both of them. During the winter months, it's hard to let the kids outside ever day. These pretty days, however, allow for exercie that is so important for everyone. Grab a leash, some shades, and your dog--then hit the trail or sidewalk! I know that it will be super fun for everyone. Scout...

Fun Spring Break Snack

Spring break is just around the corner, and those little ones will be hungry all day. It is not safe, though, for them to cook when they are home by themselves while mom is at work. Here is a tasty snack idea that doesn't require the stove:

SNACK KABOBS
Cheese Cubes
Ham or Turkey Cubes
Grapes
Cherry Tomatoes
Plastic Drinking Straws

Simply alternate the above ingredients on the straw. These can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.

I hope you enjoy this fresh snack! Scout!!!

How Do We Say "I Love You"?

I love the topic of love. I am very lucky to have so many people in my life that love me so much. I can tell by their words and actions. It could be that special rub of my ears, the pat on my head or the long rub on my belly. These things do not go unnoticed. It makes a girl feel pretty special!!!

I like to show my love in return. In case you did not know, this is how we show it. We jump on you, shove our head under your hand to make you lay your hand on us, or give you "the eyes". You cannot forget my favorite the loud, loving bark.

I hope you enjoy this Valentine's Day with the ones you love. With Much Love, Scout.

Dog Training Basics

A dog is a very smart creature, like me of course. It does not take much to get us to do a few tricks. There are a number of options to gather information to start the training. You can get books at the library and pet store, the internet, training classes, and even your local 4-H group might have a dog project. These resources will show you where to start and how a little treat can get us to do just about anything. The first command you will want to start with is sit. For the "excited" dog, like me, this can be just a little more difficult. I blame it on my wonderful, wagging tail. With a little patience and a great treat it can be done. Start off with no longer than 5 minutes. You don't want to overwhelm your dog. You can try this during your walk, before you give them their food or just about any time. Well, keep up the good work--I can't wait to hear about your progress. Scout.

Your New Best Friend

A number of families added new pets to the household during the Christmas Holidays. It is important to remember that they need a little guidance and training to adjust to their new home. You need to put them on a schedule, just like a new baby. Dogs are really smart and can quickly fall into a routine with such things as feeding schedules, house training, exercise and sleeping. Before you know it, your pet will be reminding you what needs to be done next. This is a whole new world for them and this will allow them to adjust quickly. You can enjoy your pet even more with a good routine in place. Well, I better go....it is almost time to eat breakfast!! Scout