Pure Joy

I'm probably a freak for saying this but one of the funniest, most athletic things I do anymore is play hide and seek with my dog. It never ceases to amuse the heck out of me. Again tonite I come home and do as that goofy commercial does and call for my dog - what does that guy say? Mr. Barky Von Schnauzer? or something like that . . . . while I admit Noah's name isn't quite that "obnoxious", I do feel that he's somewhat confused because Noah sounds a lot like NO and then a sigh or something. Anyway, I call for him and then we chase each other around the condo for about 15 minutes (I'm sure the neighbors LOVE US). It just tickles the crap outta me because he's so smart. He'll hide under the bed when I get too close, which is perfect, because he won't come out until he hears me thunder down the hall or down the steps. Well tonite I fooled him. I quietly (which for those who actually know me will find hard to believe - I am not a quiet person in the least) sat on the bed 'til I caught my breath (which took a while cuz I'm so outta shape). Then I ever-so-slowly and stealthily snuck my way to the bathroom. Now I've hidden behind the bathroom door before, but tonite I was truly on a roll ---- I hid behind the shower curtain in the tub (got my socks soaking wet but it was worth it). Then I "pitter patted" with my hand on the wall to lure my 4-legged friend out from under the bed. He took the bait and went galloping down the hall and down the steps. He quickly realized that he'd been outsmarted and came back into the bathroom and looked behind the door ---- I could've perhaps kept the game going, but I laughed so hard when I saw his face peering behind that door, that I unfortunately gave up my hideout when he heard the giggling from behind the curtain. He smiled (I swear he really does) and we rested for a minute or so, and I realized, yes, that is pure joy!

Football, Freedom and Honor

Is today a perfect day for watching the pigskin fly or what? Of course, perfect from the comfort of a nice warm couch with a snugly afghan. I love Sundays!

I think as I sit in the comfort of my home of all of the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines of the past, present and even future who fought and continue to fight for this freedom I enjoy. Godspeed to those currently in harm's way --- Thank God for all Veterans' sacrifices!

Ride Noah Ride

When my sister was in town a few weeks ago she had a rental car - mustang convertible - and the weather was still really nice. She'd reserved a compact car but they were all out so she got this awesome blue one at the same price - excellent deal. Noah decided he wanted to drive so I had to snap this picture. Isn't he cute?

somethin's gotta give

I keep saying I'm going to update more often and I've got the best of intentions but this has been a helluva spring, summer and fall. Fall really is one of my favorite times of the year and this has been no exception, but I tell ya what - when it rains it pours. I won't be depressing with all of the details but suffice it to say that this past month has once again been challenging with friends and family in the hospital, friends and family passing away suddenly, cold and the flu for me (I know, I'm a whiner - I admit - I don't do "sick" well - hahaha - that's funny sick well) anyway, it's been difficult to post when I've been so down. I know though that I've always got a lot to be thankful for, and even in the midst of all of this, I know, truly know, that that is the case. So, with that said, Happy November - let's enjoy what's left of those beautiful leaves on the trees, and may this be a happy and healthy month for all (and a month of more posts for me) :-)