Nine Days To Go . . .

I really give credit to all of the "regular" bloggers who manage to keep up with daily posts during this busy time. I just cannot do it! I have probably baked at least 20 dozen cookies so far, if not more. Rachel had two cookie exchanges, which were lots of fun. Last night I finally finished the scrapbook I've been working on as a gift for my brother. I must get my out-of-town gifts packaged up so I can get them in the mail to ensure Christmas delivery. And I haven't even started making the jewelry I need to make yet!! But I'm feeling good, happy, peaceful and content during this wonderful time of the year!!

I wanted to take a moment to give you an update on our little Bella, the puppy we got in late August. Remember Bella? She was l lb. 6 oz. about a week after this picture was taken. We were bottle feeding her at the time.

Bella got her first grooming this past Saturday. I'm sure you will agree, it was well-deserved!! This is her "before" picture with Al, the groomer.

She cleaned up nicely!!

Bella has definitely secured her place as a member of our family. She frolicks with Lacie and is probably the aggressor, but I do believe Lacie has finally come around to liking this new puppy she has to share space with. Lacie has been teaching Bella "the ropes" and Bella is doing great with keeping back when growled at, staying away from the table at dinner time and knowing what to do where when outside. They run around the house like wild animals until they drop together from sheer exhaustion until one spots a glint in the others eye and then they jump up and do it all over again!

Hope everyone is enjoying this time of year and getting done all of those things that you need and want to do. I've been thoroughly enjoying my favorite bloggers posts and am very impressed with your ability to do it all! Keep up the good work! Hopefully it will wear off on me!!!