Tim Bowers' secret, super high-tech drying system

Because of the sprint to publication, these paintings were done at super-human speed. Instead of cutting corners on quality, I went into my 24 hours a day, seven days a week schedule (taking food and sometimes sleep breaks). My family is not too excited about the schedule but we make it work. The artwork was created with oil paints on canvas, which typically dry very slowly. I add a drying medium but still, it takes time. To speed up the drying process, I created a secret (until now), super, high-tech drying system to help finish the job.  (It’s amazing what you can do with a hair dryer and some masking tape)  -T.B.

Tim Bowers in his studio painting First Dog

Boy, did I learn a lot more about various dog breeds as I researched for this book. I hadn’t even heard of a Portuguese water dog. I’ve had a great affection for dogs since my childhood and recognized many of the breeds in the story, but not all of them. It’s always exciting when you discover something new and finding these terrific dogs was like an introduction to new friends.

I share the excitement for the anticipated White House addition. I hope this book will inspire many more happy endings for our canine friends who are waiting for their perfect homes. -T.B.

The First Family seems to have narrowed their choice of a dog to either a Labradoodle or a Portuguese water dog. The White House dog debate has gone back and forth like a wagging tail. Those who keep up with the issue have probably learned a little more about both breeds and the animal rescue efforts, thanks to the media exposure. After considering both, the Portuguese water dog was finally selected to take the leading role in First Dog, written by my friend; Pat Lewis and his daughter Beth Zappitello. The book takes us around the world to discover some really interesting dog breeds and is done with humor (one of my favorite things). Regardless of the White House selection, I feel that the First Dog story is one that will last long after the choice is made and the newest addition to the First Family is sleeping, snug in the White House. -T.B.

Thursday, April 2, 2009

First Dog USA Today & Cobert Report

 Check out the video at www.colbertnation.com/the-colbert-report-videos/223278/march-31-2009/obama-s-endless-dog-search

George Moore, the Irish novelist and man of letters, once said, “A man travels the world over in search of what he needs and returns home to find it.”

Well, if you substitute “dog” for “man” in that quote, you have the story of FIRST DOG.
He too goes around the world in search of what he needs–the perfect home–and returns to his old soft patch of grass in the park before he wakes up to find it. And it is only a few blocks away.                                                                                                                           Cheers, Pat

It is estimated today that there are over four million abandoned dogs in the United States. Across the country, in large urban areas and small rural towns, wonderful dogs are in need of rescue. Abandoned, mistreated or lost, these animals are in desperate need of a loving home. Their lives depend on it. If you and your family can rescue a dog (or a cat), you’ll be rewarded with a loving companion for years to come.

Welcome to the Sleeping Bear Press blog for First Dog, a book for the whole family releasing on April 15th. We are looking forward to your comments!