Stella and the Count

We have two new additions to our household.  Stella is a white and brown semi-longhaired cat who is affectionate but a bit reserved.  She loves to snuggle on my lap for short periods and is becoming more vocal, chirruping greetings at us when we enter the room.  The Count is a sweet black shorthaired cat who was pretty reserved at the shelter.  Still, these two cats lived together at the shelter as close friends, so we decided to take them both.  Once we got him home, the Count's demeanor changed entirely.  He is extremely playful and loves to chase moving objects.  He is also very affectionate and forward, jumping up on any lap he can find and staying until we want to stand up.  He especially loves Brian because Brian will stay in his chair for as long as the Count wants to snuggle.  Stella is 12 months old, while the Count is 10 months.  They seem to be adapting quite well to our house (not upset by the ferret smell, as far as I can tell).  

Christmas, Part 2

First off, we had some presents to open:

Of course, we needed to have a nice fire too:

We played Upwords:

Olliebollen time!

More games:

We were also home for Mom's birthday:

Merry Christmas (part 2)!

Christmas, Part 1

Brian and Dave, messing around:

This is what happens when Dave crosses his mom:

Out for Chinese food, Christmas Eve:

Bike lights!  Go safety!

New comforter!

New hat!

Christmas get-together with extended family:

The dogs want to be involved in the action:

Merry Christmas everyone!

Early August visitors

Several weeks ago, my parents came to visit us in Cincinnati for the weekend.  During their time here, we did several interesting activities together.  We viewed Cincinnati from the top of Carew Tower.  We went to some interesting restaurants.  We went to the aquarium (see next post).  I was really happy they had a chance to come visit us.

First a few pics from the top of Carew Tower - 

SSE view, with the Reds stadium peeking out behind the central building:

S view, with the Roebling Bridge and the Freedom Center:

NW view, with the Cincinnati Museum Center (the old railroad station):

Anne and Peter:

Dad and me:

Me, Dad, Peter, Anne, Mom:

More pics around town -
Coffee time at Peter and Anne's house:

Brian, me, Mom, & Dad:

Everyone (minus Ginger):

Brian and my parents on the Purple People Bridge:

Evening icecream/froyo time, Peter and Dad:

Mom and Anne:

Visit to Ripon

A couple weeks ago, I headed out to California to visit my grandparents.  My grandma had a bit of a health scare, so I went to make sure they were okay and take care of things around the house for a while.  I am happy to report that they are doing a lot better this week, so it was a really good and important trip for me.  My grandma has taken care of me countless times over the years, so I was happy to go out and give her a hand for a few short days.  

During my time in Ripon, we had several nice visitors.  I didn't take as many photos as I should have, but I have a few to share.

Gma and my cousin:

Gpa and me:

Gpa & gma, with my aunt and uncle:

On the way home, I had a bit of a travel hiccup and ended up stuck in the Charlotte airport overnight.  Luckily, I had a small blanket/shawl to help me stay warm in the overnight hours.  I did make it home (eventually), and I am happily putting my schedule and house back in order.

Dublin Irishfest

A few weeks ago, we went to Irishfest in Columbus.  It is a great place to listen to festive music, eat delicious food, and look at fun craft items.  It was good to see Brian's parents and enjoy the festival.