I just adore this time of year, when the weather turns warmer and the sun shines a little brighter.  My favorite thing to do on a sunny Spring Friday is hop in the car and go for a spin.

Of course, I prefer to drive…

But, I don’t mind riding in the back sometimes, too…

And feeling the breeze on my face is particularly satisfying (especially when someone is frying up bacon or grilling a steak).  I love steak, who doesn’t?  That would be weird.  But I’m watching my girlish figure lately and have turned to fish and lean turkey.  Is it lunch time yet?  Um, what was I talking about?  Oh right, car rides.

Heading out for a nice car ride right now.  Maybe I’ll see you around!

Happy Friday,

Gracie

This blog is all about me, like most things.  I just thought it would be nice to give a shout out to my people.  They are a little shy, so be cool when you run into them at CK or if you see us running together on 30A.  Just let me know if you are a regular reader of my work and I’ll totally introduce you.

Everything I do, I do well.  I’m not being boastful, I swear!  It’s just a fact.  For example, I’m an excellent swimmer.  Made better certainly by all the training in the Gulf of Mexico.  (Have you ever swam with a ball in your mouth while navigating some serious waves, managing to keep your head above water AT ALL TIMES?  No?  I didn’t think so.)  I’m also an excellent runner, especially if I’m chasing bunny rabbits or other fluffy little creatures.  And, eating, fuhgeddaboudit!  I can clear a plate in record time and still give you a complete critique of ingredients, presentation and the chef’s technique.

The place where I truly excel, however, is hands down in the arena of napping.  I take the best naps of anyone I know.  If napping were an olympic sport, I’d be a gold medalist!  I mean, I can get cozy and catch some ZZZs anywhere.  It’s a gift really.  So, being the totally giving, caring canine that I am, I’ve decided to share a few of the secrets of my napping success.  You may wanna take notes.

Beginning nappers should start with the basics.  The porch, front or back, is a good place to begin to refine your own napping style.  Find a nice spot in the warmth of the sun, stretch out and think about relaxing things like gluten-free cookies or a beautifully seared duck breast.  (BTW, that’s George there in in the pic in the foreground totally stealing my spotlight.  Camera hog!)

Once you’ve perfected the outside nap, move inside for a little floor napping.  Same principles apply.  Just curl up and think happy thoughts.  (Why is George in this pic, too?  Is he on a chair!?  Gives me an idea…)

Ok, I know my eyes are open in this example.  It’s because I was rudely awakened by my people talking loudly about “new upholstery” and “no animals on the furniture”.  I know!  Animals on the furniture!  Definitely not cool.  I’m on the look out now for animals in the house.  Haven’t found any so far, but I’ll let you know when I do.

Wow!  I know a lot about napping.  Have you been taking notes?  Guest room napping is my way of warming the place up for visitors.  It’s the least I can do.  I love visitors and I go out of my way to be a fantastic hostess.  You are welcome.

The piece de resistance of napping is definitely hunkering down on my people’s bed.  Left side or right side, you can’t go wrong here.  It’s THE best place to nap.

Now, I challenge you to begin your own napping journey.  Go forth and conquer.  Or at least dream about it.

Maybe you’ve seen me around Cowgirl Kitchen or glimpsed an awesome pic of me on the facebook page.  Now, we are gonna get to know each other better.  To get this train rollin’, here are some things I’d like you to know about me.

• I’m a natural blonde and I’m pretty sure I do have more fun.  Just sayin’.
• I adore Julia Child.  I live my life by her words “Everything in moderation…including moderation.”
• My birthday is April 15, which is just around the corner so you may want to start shopping now.  (hint: I’d love anything from the meat case at your local grocery!)
• Little kids just love sharing food with me.  I really bring out the generosity in little tykes.  Could be their lack of manual dexterity with cumbersome objects like croissants and ice cream cones, but whatever, I’m not gonna to over-analyze it.
• I’m an athlete.  I run with my people.  I swim.  I chase ducks and rabbits.  I protect the perimeter of my home with absolute laser focus…unless I’m napping.
• I’m a catalogue model.  I’m sure you’ve seen me in Lands End Summer 2010?
• I live with a chihuahua called George, and we are the classic blended family.  Yes, I’ve heard all the “George & Gracie” quips, so don’t bother.

Want to know more?  Just ask.  I’m an open book.

Howdy, y’all!  I hope you all like the new website!

If you come by for a visit to the restaurant, you might run into me, Gracie.  I am a Labrador Retriever and Nikki is my beloved best friend and running companion. I keep special organic dog treats for my four-legged friends and visitors and often spend the afternoon chasing waves on the beach.

I’ll be keeping track of my cowgirl adventures in Rosemary Beach and beyond right here so you can follow me and get a picture of this dog’s life…and it’s SOME life, for sure!  Sometimes there will even be guest postings from local celebs and Nikki, too.

Hugs & Paws, Gracie