The bridge to Helma's & Audrey's Christmas list.

We have been caring for the retired-guy's friend's dog, Helma, over the last few days while he travels overseas. Helma, who is an 85 lb. German Shepherd, stays at her home and the retired guy visits throughout the day and we both are there for her dinner and some tv time each evening. Helma lives on 2 acres with a doggy-door that allows her access to the outdoors throughout the day so she just runs in and out all day long. At night she stays inside on her cushy bed until breakfast the following morning. It's a good set-up for her and she seems to do very well with all her daily visits. She is an amazing guard dog and no critter would dare enter her doggy-door.

On our drive to Helma's house, we cross this little bridge over the Mississippi River that is lit up for Christmas.
It is so pretty in the center of this sleepy little bedroom town. 

Back home, Christmas preparations are all finished and Audrey has left a spot on her favorite couch for Santa to sit and rest a spell. Her Christmas list consists of...
                                                              a red mouse
                                                           (preferably real)

                                             her own knitting bowl fool of wool

                                                                  treats

                and Joe to be gone with the big guy when she wakes up Christmas morning.

                                                                (pinterest)

I reminded her that Santa already has a lot to carry on his travels and there is no room for a 12lb, feisty cat in his loot bag. She says he is magical and can handle it. I suppose it will be hard to refuse the charm of this face. Treats will console her if she is disappointed.

Off to deliver gifts then bake the pumpkin pies.

Stay toasty,

Deb