COMMENTS
I thank you guys so much for your comments. I can't say enough how much I like it that the blog is read and that people actually feel moved to respond. Sharing a journey like this is half the fun. Just spread it around. I want the whole world to know what an Australian-bred German Shepherd Dog is doing in sunny Switzerland. And if we should do well enough to pass the big test, then I would like the whole world to know that too because it highlights that despite very little support, rather pathetic facilities, we still know how to train dogs to find people.
Anyway, to your comments, Christine and Judith. I am sorry that you get the idea that I am down on myself. I am not actually. You see, I take the view that it is not always 'sunny'. There are times when I, like everyone else, stuff up, get it wrong or simply have not yet learned something. I have no problem in saying so. I LOVE the feeling of learning and so although I really was at times a hindrance to Jochen, it is all OK. I learned out of the experience and that is exactly what I came for.
It is exciting to know that I am adding to my knowledge and experience and the only way I can do that is to be aware that there are gaps in my knowledge and be open to the learning. I am usually quite quickly aware that right now I am stuffing up but given the complexities here, not always quite sure what to do about it. So it is all good. Rest assured that even when I am being less than bright, I am still having a ball.
In respect to taking notes, no, there is no time. We have 20 minutes to search and that includes the briefing and tactical decision making. We have to get the message very quickly and get on with it. That is no problem either. I just have to learn how the message is delivered and pay attention. It is OK too. But thank you for your concern and interest, that is great for me. But believe me, sometimes I have been a ball-and-chain around Jochen's legs but that is ok too. It will all work out.
I will keep blogging if you guys keep reading.