my dumb ( or maybe pretty smart) dog

I had a lot of things planned today. Blogging wasn't one of them. The weather has just been so beautiful the last couple of days, so on the top of my list of things to do today was start cleaning the backyard. I pulled out the power sprayer to really clean off the ash and dust that has settled in. I put my dog's bed up and moved everything that I didn't want wet. I had to put his bed on top of a copper fire pit because I hosed off all the patio furniture too. I had an appointment at 11:00 and was starting to run late, so I let him in the back yard just before I left. The thought crossed my mind about putting his bed back for him, but the patio was still too wet. I figured he would just grab a nap on the chaise lounge like he does sometimes. (yeah, I know, my dog is the epitome of spoiled and they coined the phrase "creature comfort" after him) Anyway, I rushed back home to grab something I forgot after my appointment and looked in the back yard to see where my dog might be. I couldn't see him at first. I thought something might be wrong. Something was wrong. I was looking for him lying on the ground or on the chaise. Not there.
He found his bed. And he didn't mind that it was a little higher than usual. What a crack up!







This is enough to make me smile for the rest of the day. Have a great sunny restful day.

Ok, ok, one more thing...

Now, if you are reading this (is anyone really reading this?) then, you may know I LOVE monkeys.

And if you go to downtown Austin, you will definitely drive by  the capitol building.  It's beautiful and really hard to miss and you shouldn't- cause it is beautiful.  Anyway, then you should head the other direction...down to SoCo (or south Congress Ave) for some of the coolest shops and restaurants and unique "things" in Austin.  Otherwise known as the weirder side. But still, very cool.  This large monkey sits in the window of one of my favorite shops- Monkey See, Monkey Do.  If there were a way to wander off with a 5 foot wooden monkey without looking too suspicious, I might be tempted.  Wait...I have been tempted, there is just no way to do it. So, it will stay there. Perched and smoking.  For all to admire.  As it should be.  And if you have a craving for something really sweet, wander across the street and get yourself a big cupcake.  But, skip the whip cream blast.  I went for it cause it was free and wanted more for my money. And there was a sign reminding me that you only live once. It had to happen.  It was a little over the top and way too sweet and filling for me.  But a good idea if you are in need of a shot of something extra.

Have a wonderful day.

Texas sunsets

Although it rained half the time we were in Texas, the clouds did add some drama to the sunset at night. I love Texas clouds.
Usually, they are big, fluffy, beautiful white clouds. Amazing in landscape photos. Almost unreal. This night the edge of the sky was still thick with clouds moving southwest with the storm. And the sun was lighting from below. It appeared as if the sky were on fire. We were able to just catch the end of it. I didn't "pop" this in PS. Just added some light to the Hollows sign because I didn't want to overexpose the sky. And if you are ever in Austin, specifically north Lake Travis, this is the place you want to go- The Hollows

Keep Austin Weird

Just got back from Austin....more of a business trip, but still I love Austin more each time I go there. Really. If you have a camera, go to Austin. There is no limit of cool stuff to shoot. And Bambi is just everywhere. Not so much downtown, but you really have to be careful driving because there are deer everywhere; hanging out on your front lawn, parking lots, just everywhere. And tons of old houses and interesting people. More to follow later. I promise.

I really have nothing fabulous to say today. Not that I ever have anything particularly fabulous to say any day, but really, it is just not coming to me right now. There are times when I start typing and the words just flow. There are other times when I sit down and start writing, then delete, try to rewrite and end up deleting again. And again. When I feel passionate about a topic, the words are there. When I have to search for something to say...well, you get the "picture".
Been listening to my new Ipod today. Nice little V-day gift from the man! A (red) one as well. Got to love that!
So random words and beach style pics are on the blog today. Hope you all enjoy a crazy little Valentine's day.
And if you don't have a Valentine right now, don't sweat it. Be your own wonderful Valentine and give yourself a treat. You deserve it.

Today was a great day to...

Without getting too political because no one really ever appreciates that, and it's best to air views with someone who agrees unless you are up to your own long debate, which I'm not-- right now. But, that sign is pointing the wrong way.
And does anyone really ever know what to do with these? My husband thinks I bug the dog. He might have a point.
But he did get a car ride out of it.



Happy Super Tuesday...