the best christmas ever.

i know i say it every year. but this really was the best christmas ever. and it took me by surprise. i was anticipating a bleak and meager holiday. but thanks to a loving family and a few secret santas, hope was reborn. it is amazing how contagious good cheer is. and once again i was filled with christmas spirit. cookies were baked. ornaments were made. presents were acquired. candles were lit. smiles were flashed. and good tidings were shared. and i am reminded of how blessed i am to be surrounded by so much love.

santa elf & billie holiday.

the ranconteurs on vinyl! oh my!

a bacon and gravy christmas breakfast.

brother in law john and baby rosie.

reindeer in law angie.

rita's in the kitchen with jaybird.

3 generations.

christmas din-din feast.

christmas din-din dogs.

christmas din-din love.

porkchop's 6th birthday.

porkchop turned 6 yesterday. hard to believe a little orphaned pup with pre-cancer and heartworm would be living such a long and prosperous life. he's traveled across the country, swam in the ocean, vacationed in branson, hunted rabbits and the occasional deer, rode a tractor, gone canoeing, dined on filet mignon and lamb, developed a keen taste for clementines and coffee, and yesterday he ate a bountiful birthday dinner of devilled egg, ham skin, turkey, stuffing, bisquits and gravy. shine on you crazy hound dog!

turkeydog.

porkchop's all dressed for thanksgiving. he's off to potosi, where his grandma rita lives. he can't wait to eat some turkey and stuffing. he said he's thankful for being so good looking, for having 4 pet cats, and for gravy.