Enjoy More Vegetables. Two Peas in a Pod.

Posted December 20, 2013 by Barbara Techel

As I was unpacking my groceries today, I turned around to see Gidget and Kylie snuggled together on the big pillow I keep in our kitchen.

I smiled and said out loud, “This is new.”

It is so sweet to see the bond deepening between the two.

When Gidget first got here about a month ago she would either be on the pillow alone, or it would be Kylie hanging out by herself.

It’s intriguing to watch how they’ve worked things out on their own terms. Coming together like this when it felt right to them.

As I put the frozen asparagus and broccoli in my freezer, I felt my heart melt for the love between my two peas in a pod.

Picking the Perfect Name for Our Animal Friends.

Posted December 18, 2013 by Barbara Techel

I’m always fascinated by how people name their dogs. I especially love hearing what people name their dachshunds. If I see or meet a dachshund, the first thing I have to know is their name. Maybe it is because doxie’s are such little characters that their name just seems to immediately add to their personality, and most times, fits them quite perfectly.

I’ve named all my dogs. Even when I adopted Joie who was formerly Mylee, Joie just felt like the right name for her.

But Gidget is different. She already had her name and I really loved it. Not only did I fall head over heels in love with her from the moment I saw her, but her name just seemed to fit her. I didn’t want to change it.

Many of you may recall the TV show, Gidget, starring Sally Field. I looked up the words to the theme song and thought it would be fun to share with you. I think you will agree. Gidget is absolutely a Gidget!

“If you’re in doubt about angels being real, I can rearrange to change any doubts you feel.

Wait’ll you see my Gidget!

You’ll want her for your Valentine. You’re gonna say she’s all that you adore but stay away Gidget is spoken for.

You’re gonna find that Gidget is mine!”

How did you decide on a name for your dog? I’d love to hear in the comment section below!

My Unconventional Christmas Tree Speaks to Me

Posted December 16, 2013 by Barbara Techel

I haven’t had a “normal” Christmas tree for a few years now.

Years ago I remember visiting a friends home during the holiday who lived by what I call her own heart strings. On her piano she had a large vase that contained branches that had fallen from tree’s outside her home. She hung her Christmas ornaments on the branches and strung a string of lights. I loved that tree.

It took me a few years to break away from the tradition of a pine tree. Back then I’d worry, “What would people think if I had a branch tree?” But now that I live by my own heart strings, I do what makes me happy. I took my friends idea and use it as my own now. It makes me smile every time I look at it.

It also always makes me think of her every Christmas. She moved away years ago and this time of year always has me wondering how she is doing.

I love my tree because it brings the indoors in. It also reminds me of how nature inspires me. How it reminds me of all that we have is this moment. Right here, right now.

My tree stays up all year. Once Christmas is done, I’ll re-decorate it for the winter, then spring, summer and fall.

My unconventional Christmas tree is my reminder to continue to be me. Oh special Christmas tree, how I love thee!