Beautiful Places

Our 2005 trip to Portland, Oregon, opened our eyes to the natural beauty that exists in North America.

This image was taken on Cannon Beach at the Oregon coast. My parents, boyfriend, and I were in awe of the lovely and breathtaking setting.

What Counts

Today, I considered staying at work late. I've got plenty of unanswered e-mails, overdue to-do items, and other things I could get done at the office if I stayed late. But, I decided to head home at a reasonable time. I wanted to spend time with those at home whom I love and who love me.
The first image above is actually a photo of a photo, which my sister took of my fiancé with her old-school film camera. The second image above is of my darling dog, relaxing on the couch with me today after work.

Holistic Veterinarian

I'm glad there are vets out there who care enough about animals to learn natural and holistic ways to care for them, along with "conventional" vet care when needed. My pup is transitioning to a new diet that will better suit her, plus will undergo a couple of acupuncture treatments. For the new diet, which will combine high-quality pet food with fresh food that I will cook for her, the vet recommended this "Wellness" brand, and and I got a bag of treats in the same brand, as well. I love giving my pup treats. I'll have to work on that as well, though, because the holistic vet says my dog needs to lose about 4 pounds.

What Makes Me Happy

My front porch, every time I look at it.

Delicious Stretches

This evening, I enjoyed a 45-minute yoga class at the gym at my workplace. It feels so good to stretch my muscles, get my blood flowing, breathe deeply, relax, and listen to calming music. The first time I took a yoga class, years ago, it was an amazing experience. I felt muscles I didn't even know I had. I was more physically relaxed than I had ever been.

Words From Molly

A message from the owner of Molly's Mutt House, reminding us to be grateful for those unsung riches in our lives.

Words from Molly:
Have you ever imagined life without having to let your dog out to potty or for those without a backyard a walk every time? I did, and here is what it looked like. Why rush home, there is no dog to let out. Why get out of bed immediately when you slowly start to wake up, there is no dog to let out. Why get off the couch when watching your favorite TV show, there is no dog to let out. Why stop eating in the middle of your meal, there is no dog to let out. Why get up from your computer, there is no dog to let out. If there was no dog to let out, we would be pretty lazy. I think I would gain 10lbs. Enjoy the next time you need to take your dog out. You need the exercise.

Love & Multiculturalism

My fiancé, who is from Guyana, and a table laid out with delicious Dutch goodies. Photo taken Jan. 1, 2007. I'm grateful I was able to book another trip to Holland today, and that I have the opportunity to travel there. I am grateful for winters, and summers and springs and falls. I am grateful for people who are a permanent part of my life.

Coffee & Cake

A slice of strawberry cheesecake from the Dessert Gallery on Kirby Drive and a cup of black, unsweetened coffee made from home-ground beans and brewed in a French press.

The cheerful yellow plate was a gift from a friend, and so was the chocolate-brown mug. The cake was the result of a Friday night dessert run with my fiancé. The fork is from Ikea.