this and that in pictures

A resolution, of sorts, that I made this 2009 was to spend more time on photography and learning how to "enhance" the photos I take through Photoshop.  Easier said than done.  After looking at all the pictures below, I see that I still need to work on my color balance and hues.  Anyway...here are a few shots from the last week or so.

This is my nephew, CJ.  He is 19 months old and one of the most well-behaved toddlers I've ever met.  Of course I think he's extra special because we share the same birthday.

Harry was pretty attached to the new Wii Santa splurged on for Christmas.  He sat in this particular spot, on the couch, for most of Winter Break.  There were a couple days that the only reason he got out of his pajamas was to go down to his friend's house to ask advice on how to get to the next level in "Lego Star Wars."  I felt a little like a bad parent, for letting him play so much, but I knew it was just the newness of it.  Once school started, I was sure the "need" to play would wane - and it has.

This little girl also fought getting out of her pajamas for most of break.  This independence is great - it means she'll be a strong woman - but for now it just really gets in the way.  Ella was always my compliant one.  The rule-follower.  Now she has her own opinions and (gasp) actually makes her own decisions ALL the time.  It's completely scaring the hell out of me. (Oh - and check out the pajamas.  Backwards AND inside out.  They won't wear them any other way.  This is one battle I really don't feel like fighting.)

Of course a picture montage wouldn't be complete without Basie.  Her limitless energy is a constant issue for me.  I am always looking for ways to exhaust her.  Two doors down, there is an adorable Goldendoodle (half golden retriever/half poodle).  He looks the exact opposite of Basie.  He is thick, curly-haired and tall.  I'm not sure what attracts them to each other, but these two dogs are in love.  They play on my tiny front yard as often as they can.  Here is a shot from today's session.  They both look pretty ferocious, but look below...

...who wouldn't love this dog!

View down my street

It snowed last night and took away all the gray, brown icky snow.  

Go Vikes!

We moved her from the midwest when she was two, but it's engrained.  She is a Minnesota Viking's fan.  (NFC Wildcard game tomorrow - Vikings vs. the Eagles)

I lied

Not only did I stay up till midnight, I didn't lay my head on the pillow until a little after 1 AM.  A time of day/night I haven't seen since forever.  Two families joined us, and all the kids got along, which allowed for much eating, talking and drinking by the adults.  This champagne glass was given to us, as part of a set, for our wedding almost ten years ago.  I don't think it's been used since.

I walked the dog at about 12:40 AM and didn't really think about the fact that I was outside, after midnight, walking alone until I was a few blocks away.  As for protection, Basie was a total wuss.  There were lots of fireworks going off and she cowered and literally turned around - telling me that she was not going to have any part of the festivities.  I met some neighbors on the walk.  I will venture a guess that this couple was WAY more entertaining last night due to many scotches.  

We need to remember, for next New Year's Eve, not to let Ella stay up.  She has been a complete puddle all day - whining, snotty and completely out of sorts.  Hoping she sleeps till noon tomorrow.  

Happy 2009!  Cross your fingers that it is full of happiness.