Something New...

Rachel's violin teacher tells us it would be good if Rachel could get a new bow for her violin. Apparently, an advancing violinist can only attain certain sounds and techniques with a better grade violin. "No big deal," I thought to myself. "We can do that." Yeah right! That's what I thought before we went bow shopping! I didn't realize that bows can cost way up into the THOUSANDS! Of course, the type of bow she'll need for now is priced in the mere hundreds....approximately $300 to $600. That's all. We have considered putting her on the street corner to play...and putting a tin can at her feet. :O) I dread the day when she'll need a better grade violin! If the bow costs this much, how much will be the violin be?? Her teacher also said she would really encourage her to try to get into the Knoxville Symphony Youth Orchestra. That would be wonderful. Of course, from our house, Knoxville is an hour and a half away. We'll have to check into it. If you're interested, you can see the KSO Youth Orchestra's web page here.

Jacob started his accounting class this past week. He seems to think he'll like it...but economics is more appealing to him. Ya never know...he could become the next Bernanke! ;O)

Katie and Spud are still good buddies. So good, in fact, that we all learned a lesson last week...Ya just better not mess with Katie while Spud is around. The other day Katie and Rachel were outside playing around with some big sticks. They started "sword fighting" and apparently Spud thought Rachel was trying to hurt Katie. He started barking, yapping, jumping at Rachel, and once he lunged at her so hard, it nearly knocked the wind out of her. (Bear in mind that this dog is a scrawny little runt!) He grabbed her stick (which is way bigger than he is!) and hid it! :O) Then he went and stood beside Katie...leaning against her leg. It was funny to watch...Rachel would go get the stick and he would start the process over again. It ceased to be funny though when he actually bit her on the arm! That little dog meant business. Now whenever they want to "sword fight", ol' Spuddy boy gets penned up. So if you ever come visit us...and you take a notion you want to mess with Katie...you better think again if Spud is around. :O) Wish I had a picture or video of it...I've always heard stories of very loyal dogs, but we've never actually had one...not until now.

For those of you who might be interested, I have started a new blog. It's mainly just for women...there are recipes, homemaking ideas, and such like. I'll continue to keep up this blog for family and friends to keep up with us. But you're more than welcome to check out the new one if you'd like! http://www.littlehouseinthefoothills.blogspot.com/ You *might* find something to interest you.

Well that's about all for now. Hope you're all well and happy. Til next time!