Today, I had the fun of watching a most unlikely friendship form.

My dog – Olivia Queen of Dogs (that’s her full name) – is not usually allowed in the house when the bearded dragons, James and Luna, are out and about. But today we decided to try her out. We’ve had her around other pets we’ve had (goat, guinea pigs, cat, etc.) and after a time of figuring out if she can eat the pet or not – she settles on being a protective mama to them. Same was true this time. (however I’ll never leave her alone with any – just in case!)

Watch the progression as the friendship forms – this is all in chronological order.

Yum! You got me a snack!

Having a heart to heart…

And dogs sniff each other’s butts to say hello – why wouldn’t you smell a dragon’s butt?

Studying it….

More heart to heart discussion….

Ignoring each other.

Observing…

Deciding to be friends.

BFFs.

Oh Olivia. I just love her.

Here she is with some of her past buddies.

Couldn’t find pics of her with our cat or turtle we use to have. What a dog! If a dog and a dragon can be friends… seems like people should be able to get along too!

Celebrating life and love.

Krista

This weekend we took the girls to a nearby small lake to go skating with their cousin. Even though I grew up in the North, I’m a terrible skater. My girls have barely skated and so we wanted to get them out and build some confidence before going to public skates at the local arenas (and getting bowled over). As we enjoyed the perfect day on Saturday and hours on the ice… they taught me far more than I taught them that day.

Even if you’re scared – get in the game. Put on the skates. Get on the ice. And play. Don’t let fear hold you back.

Sometimes you just need a friend to be near you. To have your back. Knowing they’re there – makes everything better.

Stepping out and trying something new means you will fall.

And fall again.

And maybe even again and again.

But after each fall you have a choice. You can sit and think about how you failed.

Or you can accept the hand up, brush yourself off and try again.

And before you know it – that thing you feared, that you were scared to try… you’ve conquered. And you’re stronger because of it.

Celebrating life and love,

Krista

We love having a big family and lots of nieces and nephews – and a new one is always so exciting! We were thrilled to welcome our newest niece, Emily, to Mark’s brother’s family on Halloween. We enjoyed visiting with them last week before their big trip to India to visit family! So excited for them! Meet Paul, Simone, Mia and now Miss Emily!

Love the rubber boots on Mia – reminds me of my girls at this age so much!

Simone’s mom has been here from India helping for the last few months – we will miss her!

Love you Emily!

Celebrating life and love,

Krista

A month ago today I shared Spencer and Caitlin’s photos as they waited for their little one to arrive. How exciting to now share little Amanda’s photos now! I have loved journeying with SPencer and Caitlin from engagement, wedding, maternity and now parenthood! They are so relaxed and natural – it was great watching them love on little Amanda!

Blanket made by her great grandma….

And sweater set made for her by her other great grandma….

I love how she just curls up in mom’s lap!

And a sweet hair bow by her aunt!

I love the stage when all you want to do is lie around and stare in amazement at your baby. (Okay – my babies are 8 and 10 and there are days I still want to do this!)

Congratulations again!

Celebrating life and love,

Krista