Big Ole' Teddy Bear

Kahne ~ Kahner ~ Kahner Boat ~ Kahne Boy ~ Moose
He holds so many nicknames from both Brian and I. Kahne was the dog that first started our little family; which means he sometimes gets a little extra attention. He is 4 1/2 now and is still the most loveable, loyal dog; always willing to please. Not to mention, he is a wonderful toe warmer. Those eyes have a way with me. :)

Staying Warm in the Winter Chill

Ruby and Emmy
After a hard day of sleeping, sleeping and well more sleeping, I found them curled up together taking another rest. This cold weather really has put the lazy bug in them. I think our newest addition has really found her place in the house, next to Emmy. :)

Living in the Moment

Crystal Mountain ~ Thompsonville, Michigan
This past Saturday Brian and I headed north, up to Thompsonville, for a refreshing day of skiing. It is about a two hour drive for us that takes you on old M-37 through Baldwin. The drive itself has some beautiful views with calm, quiet roads and besides you are headed north (what better direction); totally worth it!

My resort of choice has always been Crystal Mountain. Back in school, three of my good friends and I would find ourselves up at Crystal Mountain every winter. However, six years ago, I found myself at the recieving end of a bad car accident. Since then my body has still (yes STILL) been healing. Skiing was something that had been taken away from me and I was longing to again regain control; to try and get some of what I had missed, back. It had been my hobby, my sport.

And did it feel great! Brian had never been skiing before and it was fun to be able to share and teach something with him that I loved so much. The weather was gorgeous; the sun peaked out about three hours before dusk, which made for the most beautiful sunset! The views atop the chair lift were breathtaking. The moon illuminated the trails and woods and the stars shown bright. Brian and I had the day all to ourselves. No cellphones, emails, work or distractions. The mountain felt like ours. We laughed, we joked, we shared stories; things that were long past due with how crazy our lives have been. It felt great to be out together in the winter air, enjoying the season and the beauty of nature.

I only brought along my pocket point and shoot which froze within a few hours of being out in the cold air. :( I was very disappointed to have not had my Nikon to capture our day; but I had to be practical. I did snag this shot before heading out on the mountain.

Kickoff to 2009

welcoming the new year
well maybe sleeping it off...I am sure many of you had a busy holiday season and this past weekend you probably felt a lot like Ruby looks in the picture. Families, friends, presents, and Christmas/New Year's Eve get together's. I hope everyone's holidays were full of joy and cheer. That you were surrounded by those who matter most in your life. I hope travels were safe and health was well. That rest was found this past weekend. Most of all, I wish 2009 to start off with much excitment for what the new year will bring! Happy 2009 everyone!