Coming Around Again

I'm sorry I took such a long break. I didn't mean to do so, but the days just slipped away. I don't really even have all that much to show for the prolonged absence. I've read part of a book that is creeping me out, but my obsessive book compulsion won't let me abandon it. I've kept the laundry, cooking and some tiny modicum of cleaning going.

When I started this blog almost a year ago, my goal was to complete 365 posts inside of a year. At the outset, it seemed easy. There was so much I wanted to say and it seemed so easy to grab a few minutes here and there to write a little, and to even write multiple posts in the same day. Alas, it was unsustainable. I still think of lots of things to write, but I just seem to have trouble these days getting those thinks out into the ether.

I've reread a few of my early posts. Boy, has my life changed in just a year. I've undergone quite a bit of upheaval, but I've landed in a good place. I'm still getting my daily recommended dose of chaos. I'm feeling healthier and I definitely have some goals and milestones that are becoming reality.

Don't give up on me. There's more to come.

In Absentia

I know I haven't written. I' ve been thinking. I promise.

In the meantime, here's a lovely photo of someone so dear to me.

Chien Bizarre

If you're in Memphis and need a dog-sitter, try this service. I can personally vouch for her services!

Spring Snow

I'm late blogging about this, but I was so busy enjoying the weather, and then recuperating from the cold/sinus infection/walking pneumonia thing I got as a result of the weather that I just haven't made time until now. Last Friday, after a few warm days, I was sent home from the Major Military Installation where I work as an Anonymous Paper Shuffler on account of...snow!

This was a particularly lovely snowfall--big crunchy flakes that were moist enough to compact well. While it was cold outside, the ground wasn't cold enough for it freeze into ice. The roads stayed passable, the power remained on and we hunkered down in Midtown for a nice dinner of homemade soup, good bread, broiled tomatoes and warm rum drinks. The Brother of the House made an appearance, and we even took Britta to the local branch of the National Chain Demon Video Rental Retailer to help us select some entertainment.

The snow continued into the night until about six inches had fallen. Outside the world was hushed and beautiful. The backyard was coated with a thick, soft layer of white. The next morning we set out for a local park to play before it all melted away.

Britta enjoyed romping in her first snow. As it was nearly up to her shoulders, we had to pick her up frequently, but she chased snowballs and helped Dear Daughter and the Norwegian sculpt a larger-than-life "maxi-Dachshund" that earned them all a spot on the local news broadcast. Dear Daughter, the original snow-bunny, played until her cheeks were rosy and her shoes were sodden.

By day's end, the snow was gone, and with it, the last hurrah of winter. It's 60 degrees today and the sun is shining. Spring really seems to have sprung at last. The snow was a delightful treat and a happy way to mark the end of the season.

Seeing Double

Why no, as a matter of fact, Britta does NOT like to share her basket and blanky, even with a still and quiet look-alike.

Well Baby Checkup

Like all good parents, we realized this week it was time for Baby Britta to visit her physician. The ever-efficient Norwegian made an appointment for her at a local veterinary practice, and we collected Dear Daughter and Best Friend and, of course, Baby Britta.

Cute puppies create quite a stir wherever they go, and Britta was certainly no exception. The staff carried her about and made a nice fuss over her. Dad took care of the paperwork:

Dear Daughter and Best Friend kept Britta entertained and calm while we waited:

Her Serene Highness, Britta Leafslayer listens for her name to be called:

A proud, but somewhat nervous dad checks out the exam table:

Treats make shots and exams a little easier to tolerate:

All went well and we were reassured of what we already felt: we have a wonderful, healthy and happy puppy. We celebrated by sneaking her into a local grocery store where she so charmed staff and shoppers alike that no one thought to point out the various ordinances we were flagrantly violating by bringing her in!

Signs of Spring, Part 2

Ever the chaotic-neutral month, March is already throwing us curve balls. Saturday and Sunday were sunny, bright and warm, with temperatures in the mid-70s. They were glorious days that make you glad to be alive.

Today is grey and cold, barely above freezing with stinging flurries of snow and ice. Go figure.