First Sewing Work of Art

Here is my first successful sewing work of art. Dustin couldn't part with his favorite pair of jeans that he ripped in the knee, so he asked me to patch them. I thought I would give it a shot, and I'm glad I did. To my surprise it was a success. I had to show off my first sewing attempt and success. Thanks for the over the phone lesson, Mom.

Happy New Year

Our days this New Year have thus far been filled with traveling and readjusting to WV. Not to forget playing with the latest Christmas presents. Dustin and I traveled back with the puppies Jan 6, and he started school Jan 7. He had a relaxing 2 week break from school. I was in Missouri for four weeks for my grandpa's surgery, which went well by the way. It was nice to roll back into Lewisburg and sleep in our own bed again. Since we have been back, my days have been filled with learning to sew. It has been so fun already and I have been working on gifts for Christmas 2008. The first pair of pjs I made fit both Dustin and I. Needless to say I am certainly not a sewing expert.

Koda is gaining inches and pounds by the day now. He is up to 28 pounds....and growing. While we were at my parents' house, Belle and Koda both gained weight, and have continued to do so ever since we returned to WV. I'm not sure what happened, but we can't seem to stop it.

In the picture above you will see our two lovely guard dogs barking at an incoming car. They sure do think they are ferocious on the inside of the window.

Now that I am back, I will be able to update more often, like I had been. Talk again soon. We hope everyone had a great Christmas and wonderful start to the New Year.

Virginia Zoo

While in Virginia, we also drove over to Norfolk and Virginia Beach to see the zoo and a lighthouse. Here is a picture of Dustin in his element with the Praire Dogs.

Thanksgiving in Jamestown, VA

Dustin and I took a few days during the Thanksgiving break to visit and explore Jamestown, VA, which is the first permanent English settlement in the U.S. This is the 400th anniversary after the three ships landed in May of 1607. It was amazing how authentic they have recreated every detail. The clothes they wear they have made from deer skin there. They cook their food over a fire. They make sausage from a pig, load the musket by hand and with powder, and cook pies in bowls with coals on top and on the bottom. Cooking back then was an all day event. When one meal was finished it was time to begin another. It was a very unique experience! We are certainly glad we went.

The picture I have included is one of a Powhatan Indian preparing a deer hide for drying and then for clothing. Aren't you glad we didn't do our Christmas shopping here!

First Snow

The snow began falling today, and in perfect timing. I was Christmas shopping, and as I looked out the window of the shop I was pleasently surprised by the beautifully large snowflakes spitting from the sky. There is no greater way to Christmas shop in my opinion. Here is a picture of the flakes later on this evening.

Things are going well. We are counting down the days until Thanksgiving break. Dustin and I are going to Jamestown, VA for the break. We are excited to get away and visit Jamestown during this 400th anniversary.

Thanks for checking in. Talk again soon.

Protecting Christmas Surprises

This event was way too cute not to put on this blog. Dustin's Christmas present from his parents arrived in the mail today. Koda must have sensed that it was a special gift, so as soon as it arrived, he began protecting it. The picture you see is Koda on the present. I think he was afraid I would open it maybe. Either way, what a great protective puppy!! He's definitely looking out for his Master.

Sunday Afternoon Nap

Koda took my Sunday afternoon nap spot today. I'm also wondering if Koda is going to take my place fixing Dustin meals and cleaning for him....HMMMMMMMM. I'll keep you updated.

Things are going very well. We are getting ready for the holidays, and I am already wrapping presents. I am trying to get Dustin to let me put up the Christmas tree. I think he is going to make me wait until after Thanksgiving, but I will be pushing for earlier. Talk again soon.