Sophie Turns Four

Today is Sophie's birthday.  She turned four years old.  I used to not like dogs...at all.  I don't like germs.  I don't like poop.  I don't like drool...or dog hair...or dog farts...really, the list goes on for a while.  Anyway, Sophie has totally changed that for me.  She makes me so happy and helps me to appreciate things in life I took for granted before - like greeting people when they arrive.  She makes me feel like the most special person in the world when I get home, and for that I am so appreciative.  She has also taught me to feel more compassionate.  I love how other people love Sophie - it makes me feel like I did a good job.  One day, when I have a human baby of my own, I hope I can show it as much love as I do Sophie. 

Sophie lying down

Sophie sitting pretty

Sophie sitting (and anxiously awaiting a treat)

Sophie's birthday treats - peanut butter treats, carob bones, and a birthday lollipop

Sophie really wanted her birthday lollipop.

The anticipation and the kill...

30 before 30

I remember my mom's 30th birthday.  It was a food shower at our church (long story - more on my childhood later).  I was eight years old when mom turned 30.  Thirty seemed SO old to me back then.  It's not looking so old nowadays.  I turn 30 on October 9, 2014.  Before I reach this milestone, I'm determined to make the most of my life, challenge myself, and try a few new things.  Below is my list (in no particular order).  I'll document every item.  Wait for it... 

30 before 30

1. Pay off a student loan
2. Learn how to do my eye makeup
3. Go to Alaska
4. Catch a fish
5. Go skiing
6. Make a quilt
7. Sip wine in Sonoma
8. Visit all five Great Lakes
9. Sail on a sailboat
10. Learn how to play chess
11. Read Pride & Prejudice
12. Go to a zoo
13. Run a 5K
14. Run a 10K
15. Eat lobster in Maine
16. Build a sandcastle
17. Drive down the California coast
18. Try paddle boarding
19. Build a snowman
20. Donate 10" of hair to Locks of Love
21. Venture to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
22. Learn how to square dance
23. Grow a garden
24. Wear my size 27 J.Crew jeans
25. Visit Yellowstone National Park
26. Go ziplining
27. Be in more than one place at once
28. Ride a day of RAGBRAI
29. Enter a contest at the Iowa State Fair
30. Spend a day helping someone else