Sunshine is my solace

The first few weeks of the new year have been an emotional roller coaster for me (which also means for Dave). After many months and no luck with trying to find a new home and adoptive family for my 2 cats, I had a humbling conversation with a woman at the Second Chance Animal Shelter in Flagstaff. Because my cat's behavioral problems (yes, they pee in the house), they are seen as "unadoptable". After a long talk with her about my options and many days of crying as I tried to come to terms with my choices, I decided to euthanize Luna and Tortuga. I know in my mind it was the best decision to make for both Dave and I and the cats, but my heart is taking a little more time to be convinced. I put them down this past Thursday and buried them Friday. Many many thanks to Patricia for literally being by my side through every minute of it. If I were an animal, I wouldn't mind soaking up the sun against beautiful sandstone walls in my final resting place :o)

As if that wasn't emotional enough, that same afternoon Patricia and I decided to go for a bike ride to help me clear my mind and start to feel better. Not more than 15 minutes into our ride, Allagash somehow found the only porcupine in the desert.... and decided she wanted to catch it. (this picture shows only the quills we couldn't easily remove)

We spent the long weekend away in Pagosa Springs with Ryan, Patricia and Abby. The snowshoeing, snowboarding, hot springs and good company went a long way to help me feel better about the above recent events.

Each Tuesday until the end of April Patricia, Abby and I are taking a moccasin making class at Dine College. Last night we started making our first moccasin. We are making traditional Navajo, male style moccasins. As soon as I have a pair finished I will upload a photo of my handi-work!!

Tonight Patricia and Ryan are throwing a soup swap party! Each couple brings 6 quarts of soup (individually packaged) and then takes home 1 quart of 6 different soups made by other guests. Not only am I looking forward to the party tonight, but to 6 delicious dinners in the coming weeks! YUM!

This coming weekend we are heading to Telluride with 12 friends to celebrate my 30th! 3 more days of sunshine, snow and friends are just what I need. I know, I know... I'm seriously spoiled :o)