Introducing Lola...

This little gal is the latest addition to our family. She's been with us for almost two months already so I'm feeling a little ashamed that I haven't introduced her yet.

.

.

Her name is Lola. She is not a showgirl nor does she drink champagne like it's cherry cola.

She is pure sweetness in a soft fluffy coat.

She was born on April 15th and is the daughter of my Brother's dog, Daisy.

They hand delivered her to us when they came for a fun visit the first week of July. (I will post about that later... busy summer folks!)

.

.

Here are a few facts about Miss Lola:

She is a mini Australian Shepherd

She has a reddish brown coat- AKA Red Merle

When she arrived at our home she weighed in at 10 pounds.

She now weighs 17 pounds!

She LOVES food.

She is an expert at playing fetch.

She likes to jump and chew on our other dog, Hazel. Hazel takes it like a trooper.

She may not like her name, because she doesn't like to come when called...

Unless it's dinner time. :)

She is an awesome little traveler... She has been to California,the Oregon Coast, the San Juan Islands, and Whidbey Island all in a span of 4 months!

She attracts attention from people no matter where we go- they can't stay away...she's just too cute!

She doesn't like attention from strangers.

She thinks breakfast should be served at 5:48 AM. Everyday.

I don't agree.

She has boundless energy, and has been witnessed to run "crazy circles" around the yard.

At 9:15 PM she zonks out.

We love her and are so glad she's part of our family!

.

.

.

Lola- 4 months old August 19th 2011

Aunt Pat- we love you!

Gone much too early, but will never be forgotten- Patricia Ann Carroll. (Pat is in the front on the left wearing a dress- taken in 1997 at my grandparent's 50th wedding anniversary party.)

.

.

.

Earlier this week, my dear Aunt Pat lost her battle with ALS. (Lou Gehrig's disease) I cannot stop thinking about her and how life is a precious gift. Losing a loved one makes you want to soak up every part of life to the fullest, breathe in a little deeper, and take time to enjoy even the simplest things of every day life.

.

.

Pat was my mom's older sister who lived on the East Coast. Unfortunately, I didn't get to know her as well as I would have liked because of the distance between us. But I can tell you from the handful of visits I had with her over my lifetime that she was an extraordinary lady. If I were asked to describe Aunt Pat, I would say she was a petite and lovely woman. Her personality was spunky and fun. I always remember her with a smile on her face and a quick witted comment coming out of that smile. She was intelligent and sassy. One of the things I will miss about her, is her letters. She had a knack for writing the most heartfelt letters. Reaching in the mailbox to find a Christmas card from Aunt Pat was always a highlight. She was an artist and loved to paint beautiful floral and landscape scenes... one of which she turned into a Christmas card. I need to dig that one out and frame it!

.

.

.

My mom is so sad to have lost her sister. She looked up to her and really enjoyed her company. I hate the empty feeling that follows the loss of a loved one. Hopefully Pat's family will be able to take comfort in each other and remember all of the wonderful stories and memories they have of her.

.

.

.

We will all miss you Aunt Pat. Rest in Peace, you were loved more than you know!

Birthday Boy

Today is Connor's birthday.

I don't think he'd be too upset if I gave away his age...43.

(He's my much older better half) :)

I hope he has a fun filled birthday stuffed with salty food, good books, sunshine, puppy kisses, coworker shenanigans, happiness, birthday wishes, and a fun evening out with the wife.

He deserves all of those and so much more.

I love ya honey, and hope you have a terrific year being 43!