bessie and her mini

cuddling when she can

The other night I was nursing August to sleep and Bessie was in the room with me.  She decided to cuddle up with my feet on the footstool and have a nap.

big sur - ringing in 2014

Another perfect getaway to ring in the new year.  This, our 9th year in a row going to Big Sur, was warm, sunny, peaceful and splendid.  A trip for grown-ups and kids/ dogs alike.  I can't imagine the days surrounding the new year any other way.

The last sunset of 2013 from the deck at Nepenthe.

Margaux and Jade climbing the rocks at Pfeiffer beach.  I think they look like moody models on location.  Check out that attitude.

Mama and Gogo and baby brother posing it up on the beach.  One month to go!

Margaux was all zen on New Years eve morning (as our neighbors finally went to sleep).  I gave her the OK to cruise the river in her PJs and play  her harmonica as loud as she pleased.

Bessie and Daddio...a perfect portrait.

The girls! Although they don't see each other often, they are instant BFFs.

The final happy hour of 2013. You are never too young to enjoy a sunset happy hour with pals!

The endless entertainment of throwing rocks and sticks in the river.

Summer's birthday was on the 30th and all the girls were treated to a special rock from the gift shop in her honor.

The scenic spot right on the river.  And our family of 4, soon to be 5 in AM snuggle bliss.

Margaux and I enjoying some quiet chats by the fire.

The girls indulge in a quiet game of  DONT SPILL THE BEANS by lantern light.

Margaux reads to Bessie.   Bessie tries to keep her eyes open.

Exploring around the campground and enjoying girl time!

Pinata Party for Summer's Third!

BFFs


Some more of our crew!  Love these special friends and its so wonderful to share this adventure with them.

Until next year.

selfies with bessie

(the new) girl time

 yes, this is a glimpse into how most mornings at our house begin...Ryan gives Bessie breakfast and lets her out at around 6am, then she comes racing into bed to snuggle with me for a bit until Margaux wakes up...sometimes when Margaux arrives there is a bit of a squabble between the girls over who gets what spot, but eventually we all settle in for a good snuggle...Margaux with her milk, me with my coffee and some GMA

special treats for bessie

 Some treats she loves...like walks and tummy rubs...and licking the last bits of peanut butter out of the jar (here with help from her big Sis).

and some treats she could do without.

knee high grass

Bessie got a chance to run around off leash on recent neighborhood walk and all she wanted to do was eat this tall, luscious grass.  I felt like singing the theme to "Little House on the Prairie".

snugglers

 Bessie would likely prefer to have this prime real estate (my side of the bed) to herself, but she is tolerant and snuggles, much to Margaux's pleasure.

fresh catch o' the day!

 Bessie was not left out this year.  Once again she proved to be only mildly amused by Halloween.  She's smiling on the inside! 

 Gogo gives her a pep-talk before heading out.

 Its not easy keeping these two fishies still for a photo with the pumpkin!

 A quick facetime with Grandma before heading out to trick or treat.

 Who could resist giving a treat to this little fishie?!

 Our fresh catch of the day!  We'll keep her.

 Margaux and Mila (Mimi to Margaux)...they really do love each other!  Margaux mentions Mimi's

 She caught on fast!  Mama was more interested in this treat givers stockings!  Yes please!
name about 10x a day

 I reeled in a super sweet one.

Meanwhile at home, a very depressed little blowfish takes a nap and tries to sleep off the memory.