Our Sweet Josie

Yesterday Laura and I had to put our little Jo to sleep. She had been going downhill for the last few months and suffered a stroke early Friday morning. We brought her in to Dr. Small around 10:30 and she fell asleep around 11:30.

She's just a dog. So why do we cry so much? She's just a dog. So why does the house feel so empty? She was just a dog but she helped shape our family into what it is. She was there for every joy, every tragedy and all the mundane moments of our lives. She was gentle, sweet, kind and loyal. And we will miss her so much.

We love you Josie.

Merry Christmas!

A blessed Christ Mass to all! This picture was taken BC (before Christy). Pictured here are myself, Maggie and Charlie standing in the back. I wish I still had those red shorts and suspenders. I'll have to call mom.

David and Joel - Super Cousins!

Tie One On

I remember this kid at school teasing me about drawing all my characters with bow ties. I grew up on Hanna-Barbera shorts and just assumed that ties, cuffs and hats were essential elements of the cartoon character. Well, many years later I'm putting the finishing touches on this puppet, Ralphie, for my 3 year old and something's missing. Yes, the bow tie. My crutch, my friend and the last piece of the puzzle. This bow tie is for you Mr. Barbera. Rest in peace.

A Christmas Miracle!

Well, not quite. Hopefully I can wrap this mess up tomorrow. By rights it should take me a week to write the instructions. Maybe we'll sell it as a Hoops and Yoyo Paper Model Challenge. Winner gets a week's supply of Spam!

Lazy Laser Eye

Oops! Looks like someone needs to schedule an eye appt. at Cosco.

Ho, Ho, Aaaaargh!

Here's what I'm working on today. It's a Christmas paper automata for the Hoops and Yoyo site and I'm wondering if I can get it done before the big day! The record player spins beautifully and Santa's legs are ready to dangle. But I still need a dancing Hoops and Yoyo in there. And a gyrating Piddles would be nice, too. (Gee, I didn't anticipate typing a sentence like THAT when I woke up this morning!)

You Better Not Pout!

Hey! It's almost Christmas! It's officially less than a week away from the big day and the kids are all a titter. And I must admit I am as well. All a titter, that is.