Sad face

What a sad faced puppy. Doug is in on vacation in St. Louis this week visiting some family & friends.  Willie was a little upset that he didn't get to go.  What a sad face!

Sunday Hike at Umstead State Park

We took advantage of the nice weather on Sunday, and took Willie for a long hike at Umstead State Park. It was a beautiful day and Willie thought it was warm enough for a swim in the lake. He wasn't used to swimming with a a leash on, which caused a little bit of a problem. We barbecued for lunch, listened to the Cardinals on the XM and went for a great hike - overall it was a perfect Sunday.

Shake

We have started taking Willie up to Petco for his baths. During the summer we wash him outside, but this winter we quickly learned that it's not fun for anybody to wash him in our bathroom. Petco is great, they provide the tub with a great sprayer, shampoo, hair dryer and even aprons.

Willie loves water, but doesn't like water in his face. During baths we are constantly trying to keep him from shaking. Usually if we keep our hands on him - he won't do it. I got this funny shot of Willie and Doug mid-shake.

Myrtle Beach Weekend Getaway

Willie's first visit to the beach on an overcast Saturday morning.
Getting his feet wet.

On the beach.

Pier at Myrtle Beach.


Saturday night at the House of Blues.

Couldn't resist the photo op.

We took advantage of Doug's weekend off and spent the weekend in Myrtle Beach. I had never been and Doug hadn't been for almost 20 years. We took Willie to avoid the extra expense of paying for a kennel. It worked out great- he loved hotel living and we had a great weekend.

We got in late Friday night and got a quick bite to eat. On Saturday, we introduced Willie to the Ocean and walked on the beach. We then took Willie back to the hotel and took off for the day. We drove the entire strip of Myrtle Beach. Quick recap - lots of neon, lots of stores selling towels & t-shirts. We found a great cafe and had lunch outside by the ocean. We did a little window shopping and walking around downtown. Saturday night, we got dressed up and went out for a great dinner and then had drinks and listened to music at the House of Blues.

We did a bit more walking around on Sunday and then set off on the 3 hour trip back home. Our New Year's Resolution was to take short trips this year - so we are off to a good start.

Happy Birthday, T!

Our niece Taylor turns three today. We wish we could be with her to celebrate. We always have so much fun with both girls when they are around. Here is Uncle Doug with both girls over Thanksgiving.

Willie's First Movie

Willie can be a little bit selfish with his toys.

Dog Down

Willie had a busy weekend, going to the dog park on Saturday and Sunday and playing fetch with our 5 year old neighbor. By Sunday night, he was down for the count - curled up in a ball on the couch. He looks so little in this picture!