1. Do you believe, somewhere deep inside, that blondes do indeed have more fun? That they are "dumber" than brunettes or redheads? Be honest!
I am not a natural blonde. These days, I'm not even a natural brunette. I do go blonde for a reason. It makes me feel better. Dr. Phil can add whatever meaning he'd like to that.
As for being dumber, no way. Unless they can prove that the peroxide actually seeps into our brains and kills off the cells.
2. Which animal would you most like to observe in its wild habitat?
I'm a mom and wife. I already live in a wild habitat.
Seriously- Any kind of sea life. Dolphins are my favorite. I'd also love to watch sea turtles hatch.
3. This week the U.N. announced that Dr. Mazlan Othman has been appointed the official "Alien Ambassador," should any extraterrestrials contact us. Have you, or has anyone you know, ever seen a UFO?
I saw something in Tucson once that was very odd. A bright light hovered over, then flew off very quickly. I am sure it was a helicopter, but don't tell Mulder.
4. Name your favorite Hitchcock film.
Rear Window. I can watch it over and over, but it has to be in the dark.
5. Would you rather spend time at the library, the mall, a craft store or home?
Oh, Lid. I had to chuckle about the library.
If I'm in a creative mood, the craft store. If not, then home.
6. Which Disney princess is your favorite? (Or Disney character, if you are a guy)
Cinderella was always my favorite. I felt sorry for her, even as a child. I was more happy for her that she was able to go to the dance and look nice than because she actually found her prince. I also love that the mice and birds loved her.
7. What kind of art is your favorite?
Nancy's :)
Also, Mary Cassatt, Renoir, and Winslow Homer
8. How do you feel about viral videos, that is, videos made by amateurs that end up on YouTube receiving thousands of hits?
Honestly, it is a bit disturbing to me. It is an example of how quickly anything put on the Internet can spread. That's now always a good thing.
9. Where do you buy your jeans?
I now like Chico's. Not Your Daughter's is pretty good, too. (Pricey.) Most of my other jeans are just department store generics.
10. Tell me about your first automobile accident.
I rear-ended another car because there was a school bus stopped ahead of us. The car in front of me slowed down, sped up, then slowed down again. I hit him. He was fine. Me? Not so much. This was before air bags were as safe as they are now. I am short and was too close to the steering wheel. I had a bruise on my sternum, a busted lip, and powder burns on my chin. I passed out for a second. Fortunately for all of us, air bags are better programmed for short people and we are all safer because of them.
11. Have you ever been honest when you knew you would benefit more if you would be dishonest?
I am known to be brutally honest. Kind of like Neal Boorz- the only one who will call the baby ugly. I may be the only one to say it, but most of the time everyone else is thinking it. If something truly doesn't need to be said, I won't lie. I just don't say a word.
12. If you were appointed "Ambassador to Aliens," what would you show and tell first about life on Earth? What would be the most difficult thing to explain?
First, we'd go to Starbucks and I'd explain the difference between a skinny and a non-fat and that, yes, you can taste the difference. I'd talk him into getting the venti and then we would head to Target. I'd teach him how to find bargains and to always scout for the 90% off sale. When we were done, I would take him to a nails salon where he can watch a lady paint another lady's toes (in wonderment.)
As for explanations, I can't say it any better than Jerry Seinfeld-
"Dogs are the leaders of the planet. If you see two life forms, one of them's making a poop, the other one's carrying it for him, who would you assume is in charge?" — Jerry Seinfeld
Thanks to the Girls for Lid's awesome questions this week!
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Monday, September 27, 2010
Sometimes crazy is entertaining.
I'm starting to think the house is bugged.
Just the other day I told Hubs that what we really needed was a new season of The Amazing Race. Yep, that's what we needed. I've gone far too long without hearing someone complain about weird food or sleep deprivation. I miss seeing a prima donna contestant spar with a rough and tough tomboy.
So, you can imagine my surprise when I turned on the television and saw Phil raise his eyebrow once again as he described the first challenge for Season 17.
I was so tickled that I wanted to call Susanne and share my joy, but I don't have her number and she also LIVES IN CANADA.
That's a whole 'nother country.
The first few episodes of The Race are usually snoozeville for me. It takes a sweet forever for each team to get through the legs and challenges and, because there are so many teams, it is hard for me to keep them straight. I'm such an intellectual.
I always feel sorry for the first team eliminated. I want to run up to that pit stop rug that looks like the rubber mat at Winn Dixie's automatic doors and just hug them. Don't you? I want to hug them for trying and going all that way, only to be eliminated the first episode.
Okay, to be honest, I want to ask them how they kept from falling apart on national television because they were completely embarrassed to be the first team to go home.
After week 3 or 4, I begin to connect with a team or two. There is usually at least one team that gets on my nerves and one that I start rooting for.
The two teams that stood out to me tonight? The Singers and the Beauty Queen.
I can already tell the singers are going to get on my nerves. No normal person goes through life singing. The beauty queen just intrigues me. Each time a beauty queen is on I want to see how she will keep her make-up on the whole time and if she can keep the height on her hair. I'm nothing if not shallow.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to start looking under all of the lampshades for surveillance devices.
Tap. Tap.
Are you there, CBS?
Tell Phil I said, "Hi."
Just the other day I told Hubs that what we really needed was a new season of The Amazing Race. Yep, that's what we needed. I've gone far too long without hearing someone complain about weird food or sleep deprivation. I miss seeing a prima donna contestant spar with a rough and tough tomboy.
So, you can imagine my surprise when I turned on the television and saw Phil raise his eyebrow once again as he described the first challenge for Season 17.
I was so tickled that I wanted to call Susanne and share my joy, but I don't have her number and she also LIVES IN CANADA.
That's a whole 'nother country.
The first few episodes of The Race are usually snoozeville for me. It takes a sweet forever for each team to get through the legs and challenges and, because there are so many teams, it is hard for me to keep them straight. I'm such an intellectual.
I always feel sorry for the first team eliminated. I want to run up to that pit stop rug that looks like the rubber mat at Winn Dixie's automatic doors and just hug them. Don't you? I want to hug them for trying and going all that way, only to be eliminated the first episode.
Okay, to be honest, I want to ask them how they kept from falling apart on national television because they were completely embarrassed to be the first team to go home.
After week 3 or 4, I begin to connect with a team or two. There is usually at least one team that gets on my nerves and one that I start rooting for.
The two teams that stood out to me tonight? The Singers and the Beauty Queen.
I can already tell the singers are going to get on my nerves. No normal person goes through life singing. The beauty queen just intrigues me. Each time a beauty queen is on I want to see how she will keep her make-up on the whole time and if she can keep the height on her hair. I'm nothing if not shallow.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to start looking under all of the lampshades for surveillance devices.
Tap. Tap.
Are you there, CBS?
Tell Phil I said, "Hi."
Friday, September 24, 2010
Eight Questions, Answers.
Susanne tagged me for a meme, so here goes. (Great questions, Susanne!)
1. What is your greatest joy?
Deep- Salvation in Christ, my family
Not-so-deep- A non-fat mocha, add the whip, after a day of Christmas shopping
2. What do you do when you're bored?
I would love to say run around the block or read, but then I'd be lying. I usually turn on the television or the computer and surf. Then I turn into a vegetable.
3. Are you a sweet or salty snacker?
Depends. Sometimes I crave sweet, sometimes salty. My favorite salty indulgence is hummus with warm pita bread. My favorite sweet is Reese's miniatures!
4. Beach or mountains?
Beach. No competition there for me. I like everything about it, sounds, sights, smells, feeling of sand on my toes. Sigh...
(But I do love the Smokies and Blue Ridge Mountains in the Fall!)
5. Favorite things on a burger.
I like a good mushroom Swiss burger if in a restaurant. If at home, I like lettuce, tomato, sweet pickle, onion, mayo and ketchup. The messier, the better. (Great home fries make it even better!)
6. Would you rather have someone else do your laundry, clean your house or do your yard work?
I don't really want someone to do any of my housework, unless it is Hubs and Daughter helping out. Having someone do the yard work would be fine. They can also landscape it while they are at it!
7. Are you a one book at a time person or have many on the go at once?
One book at a time. I need to find a new one to start. Any suggestions??
8. Favorite scripture or quote.
"When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, "I used everything you gave me". Erma Bombeck
Thanks for the meme, Susanne!
Have a great weekend!
1. What is your greatest joy?
Deep- Salvation in Christ, my family
Not-so-deep- A non-fat mocha, add the whip, after a day of Christmas shopping
2. What do you do when you're bored?
I would love to say run around the block or read, but then I'd be lying. I usually turn on the television or the computer and surf. Then I turn into a vegetable.
3. Are you a sweet or salty snacker?
Depends. Sometimes I crave sweet, sometimes salty. My favorite salty indulgence is hummus with warm pita bread. My favorite sweet is Reese's miniatures!
4. Beach or mountains?
Beach. No competition there for me. I like everything about it, sounds, sights, smells, feeling of sand on my toes. Sigh...
(But I do love the Smokies and Blue Ridge Mountains in the Fall!)
5. Favorite things on a burger.
I like a good mushroom Swiss burger if in a restaurant. If at home, I like lettuce, tomato, sweet pickle, onion, mayo and ketchup. The messier, the better. (Great home fries make it even better!)
6. Would you rather have someone else do your laundry, clean your house or do your yard work?
I don't really want someone to do any of my housework, unless it is Hubs and Daughter helping out. Having someone do the yard work would be fine. They can also landscape it while they are at it!
7. Are you a one book at a time person or have many on the go at once?
One book at a time. I need to find a new one to start. Any suggestions??
8. Favorite scripture or quote.
"When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, "I used everything you gave me". Erma Bombeck
Thanks for the meme, Susanne!
Have a great weekend!
Thursday, September 23, 2010
A Must Read For Anyone Who Knows A Child
Roxanne is not just a great blogger. She's a great teacher.
Her post, And when we screw up... gives insight to the reading challenges some kids face every day. I learned so much from her writing.
Take a moment to read it and see if you recognize anything she describes in a kid you know.
Her post, And when we screw up... gives insight to the reading challenges some kids face every day. I learned so much from her writing.
Take a moment to read it and see if you recognize anything she describes in a kid you know.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
What I've Learned From Judge Judy
It's no secret that I love watching Judge Judy. The show is my guilty pleasure and I have been known to DVR the ending as I run off to pick up Daughter from school.
I am very refined. Ahem.
So, as a public service to you I thought I'd share what I have learned from her.
May you never face her. If you do, don't say you weren't prepared.
1. Almost every case comes down to whether it was a loan or a gift.
2. If you don't intend to pay someone back, and you've said you would, don't bother going to Judge Judy. She will nip that case in the bud quicker than her bailiff swore you in.
3. If you have a pit bull, ask yourself, "why?"
4. Keep your dog on your property, on a leash. No excuses. None. And if it's a pit bull, again, "WHY?"
5. Keep receipts, email records, police reports, medical bills, and anything else that will corroborate your story.
6. Look up corroborate.
7. Don't tell Judge Judy what you feel, what others feel, what someone told someone else or anything else that is fuzzy. She doesn't like that. At all.
8. She used to be a family court judge. She knows what loser husbands, whiny wives, and delinquent kids look and sound like. She likes them almost as much as she likes pit bulls.
9. When she calls you "Madam" it usually isn't a good thing.
10. Most of the time she doesn't care about your pain and suffering claim. I know that sounds harsh, but get over it.
11. She makes Judge Wapner look like Santa Claus.
12. She will correct your grammar while you are in the middle of a sentence.
I think she's my hero.
I am very refined. Ahem.
So, as a public service to you I thought I'd share what I have learned from her.
May you never face her. If you do, don't say you weren't prepared.
1. Almost every case comes down to whether it was a loan or a gift.
2. If you don't intend to pay someone back, and you've said you would, don't bother going to Judge Judy. She will nip that case in the bud quicker than her bailiff swore you in.
3. If you have a pit bull, ask yourself, "why?"
4. Keep your dog on your property, on a leash. No excuses. None. And if it's a pit bull, again, "WHY?"
5. Keep receipts, email records, police reports, medical bills, and anything else that will corroborate your story.
6. Look up corroborate.
7. Don't tell Judge Judy what you feel, what others feel, what someone told someone else or anything else that is fuzzy. She doesn't like that. At all.
8. She used to be a family court judge. She knows what loser husbands, whiny wives, and delinquent kids look and sound like. She likes them almost as much as she likes pit bulls.
9. When she calls you "Madam" it usually isn't a good thing.
10. Most of the time she doesn't care about your pain and suffering claim. I know that sounds harsh, but get over it.
11. She makes Judge Wapner look like Santa Claus.
12. She will correct your grammar while you are in the middle of a sentence.
I think she's my hero.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Daniel-san, do not let jogging stroller intimidate you.
Right now I am surrounded by folded clothes, an ironing board, iron, and the delightful scents of ironing and pumpkin butter. Hubs was ironing his clothes for work (hey, I ain't Martha Stewart) and watching FoxNews. I love the smell of ironing. And, no he didn't have a stain of pumpkin butter on his shirt. That smell came from the new candle I put out last night.
It's by Woodwick, called Trilogy, and I highly recommend it. It starts out with pumpkin butter, then golden chestnut, and finishes with spiced toffee. So far the pumpkin butter has me hooked. I'll let you know about the rest.
I spent yesterday afternoon decorating the house for fall. Never mind that it's 95 degrees outside. I am ready for fall. It was a cruel summer, like it was for Ralph Macchio and Elisabeth Shue before she went to Vegas and ruined her life. (Oh, that's right. That was another movie.)
I still have to get pumpkins and do something with our entryway. Right now the front door has a sad, lonely wreath on it. I hear it in the night crying, "Please find me some cute gourd friends to talk to. I need to be accessorized!"
I hear you, Hobby Lobby Half Off Wreath. I hear you.
On Saturday I participated in a 5K Walk/Run to benefit the Missing GRACE Foundation. The foundation offers support to families who have lost a child through stillbirth, miscarriage, or early death. A sweet friend of mine lost a child to stillbirth and I decided to walk in her son's honor.
If you haven't already guessed, I was in the walking group.
I don't run unless something is chasing me. I've always wanted to be a runner. Okay, I've always wanted to LOOK like a runner, which would be great except for all the, you know, running. Runners are long and lean and they look like they can do anything, other than maybe lift a car or something, which is obviously something I can do.
Obviously.
Do you know what's more humbling than being in the walking group among runners? Being in the walking group among runners who are pushing strollers. Uphill. Yes, there were people running and pushing their kids uphill both ways in the snow while I was only walking and wishing the blister on my heel would stop hurting already.
This is where I start to mire in self-pity but we all know that isn't productive or good blog material, so instead I'll just tell you that I did manage to stay ahead of the walkers who were pushing strollers. That was my goal. Forget times and paces and such..
The little engine had, "I think I can."
I chanted, "I am going to beat that nursing mom with twins, three dogs, and the huge stroller."
I take any inspiration I can get.
Where's Mr. Miyagi when you need him?
It's by Woodwick, called Trilogy, and I highly recommend it. It starts out with pumpkin butter, then golden chestnut, and finishes with spiced toffee. So far the pumpkin butter has me hooked. I'll let you know about the rest.
I spent yesterday afternoon decorating the house for fall. Never mind that it's 95 degrees outside. I am ready for fall. It was a cruel summer, like it was for Ralph Macchio and Elisabeth Shue before she went to Vegas and ruined her life. (Oh, that's right. That was another movie.)
I still have to get pumpkins and do something with our entryway. Right now the front door has a sad, lonely wreath on it. I hear it in the night crying, "Please find me some cute gourd friends to talk to. I need to be accessorized!"
I hear you, Hobby Lobby Half Off Wreath. I hear you.
On Saturday I participated in a 5K Walk/Run to benefit the Missing GRACE Foundation. The foundation offers support to families who have lost a child through stillbirth, miscarriage, or early death. A sweet friend of mine lost a child to stillbirth and I decided to walk in her son's honor.
If you haven't already guessed, I was in the walking group.
I don't run unless something is chasing me. I've always wanted to be a runner. Okay, I've always wanted to LOOK like a runner, which would be great except for all the, you know, running. Runners are long and lean and they look like they can do anything, other than maybe lift a car or something, which is obviously something I can do.
Obviously.
Do you know what's more humbling than being in the walking group among runners? Being in the walking group among runners who are pushing strollers. Uphill. Yes, there were people running and pushing their kids uphill both ways in the snow while I was only walking and wishing the blister on my heel would stop hurting already.
This is where I start to mire in self-pity but we all know that isn't productive or good blog material, so instead I'll just tell you that I did manage to stay ahead of the walkers who were pushing strollers. That was my goal. Forget times and paces and such..
The little engine had, "I think I can."
I chanted, "I am going to beat that nursing mom with twins, three dogs, and the huge stroller."
I take any inspiration I can get.
Where's Mr. Miyagi when you need him?
Friday, September 17, 2010
Friday's Fave Five: Loss, Love, and Television
1. Friends (both in person and in the blogosphere) who offer prayers and support. Your comments about our Annabelle touched my heart.
2. The impact of loss. I know this sounds odd, but sometimes I believe God puts hardships and loss in our lives to remind us of how precious life and love is. We are here on this earth but a fleeting moment. We need to make that moment count.
3. On a less serious note, I am in love with my new K-cup coffee maker. Not a love like you I have for my child children where I will pick up it's socks, but more of a love like I have for Target's 90% off sales where I look forward to it and savor every minute of it.
4. The People's Court and Judge Judy. I live vicariously through their sarcasm and desire for justice. Also, I really wish I had a gavel.
5. Walking with friends. I am enjoying the morning walks with some awesome moms. Let's keep it up ladies! Can't wait to see what we'll do when it starts to snow! LOL
Join Susanne for more great Faves this week. Have an awesome weekend!
2. The impact of loss. I know this sounds odd, but sometimes I believe God puts hardships and loss in our lives to remind us of how precious life and love is. We are here on this earth but a fleeting moment. We need to make that moment count.
3. On a less serious note, I am in love with my new K-cup coffee maker. Not a love like you I have for my child children where I will pick up it's socks, but more of a love like I have for Target's 90% off sales where I look forward to it and savor every minute of it.
4. The People's Court and Judge Judy. I live vicariously through their sarcasm and desire for justice. Also, I really wish I had a gavel.
5. Walking with friends. I am enjoying the morning walks with some awesome moms. Let's keep it up ladies! Can't wait to see what we'll do when it starts to snow! LOL
Join Susanne for more great Faves this week. Have an awesome weekend!
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Save One: A Homeless Pup's Story
Our Annabelle had a tough life before she came to us.
She was seen running the neighborhood for a long time. A good Samaritan finally caught her and her companion, a pregnant poodle. She was covered in ticks and fleas, her fur was a mess, she had a runny nose, and had probably never tasted real food before.
She hadn't even celebrated her first birthday.
Fortunately for her and her poodle friend, there are people who love the helpless ones in society, people who care for those who can't care for themselves. They took her in, gave her much needed veterinarian care, and loved her more than she had been loved since she was born.
We met her Friday at the foster mom's home. I could see from Annabelle's reaction to her, that this sweet lady had really taken care of this puppy. Annabelle wagged her tail at her and gave her kisses.
Mrs. P. had packed her a little bag to go home with us, just like a mom would do when she sends her kid off to Grandma's.
Inside her packed bag were Annabelle's leash, supplements, comfort items for her nose and eyes, a pink, soft blanket and specially prepared food of lean ground beef and rice (a gourmet meal for a pup with a sensitive tummy.) Mrs. P. had written out careful instructions including what she ate, how often to feed her, what she liked, and that she was a good cuddler. I knew from all the instructions and careful packing, Mrs. P. loved her as much as any human mom could. (You have no idea how grateful I am for that.)
The rescue volunteer took our picture with Annabelle on Mrs. P.'s porch. Then Daughter and I loaded her and her specially packed bag in the car and drove her home.
As soon as she was home with us, she found the sofa. I kept thinking that, after so many months of sleeping only God knows where, it must be nice to have a soft place to land. She was able to sleep well at Mrs. P.'s home and now ours.
So our life with Annabelle began. I warmed Mrs. P's special gourmet meal for her, followed her instructions, and we all loved her and spoiled her as she deserved. She had a leftover stuffy nose and the rescue folks thought it just needed more antibiotics or allergy medications. They asked if we wanted to wait to take her home, but in my heart I knew she was supposed to come home with us on Friday.
On Monday I scheduled a new puppy appointment with our vet. I wanted him to meet her and check her out and see if he could do something new for her runny nose. He examined her, treated her with antibiotics and gave her allergy medication. We scheduled a follow-up visit in a week.
Yesterday she was not well. She screamed when we tried to pick her up, she yelped when we tried to move her. I knew something was wrong and she was in pain.
We took her back to the vet and, after blood work and other tests, he determined that she had distemper.
Distemper is a horrible disease. Seizures eventually set in, causing pain and loss of bodily functions. The pain she was experiencing from us holding her was a sign that her brain was sending the wrong signals. What should be a normal, pleasant touch was painful to Annabelle. Any treatment our vet would have given had a slim chance of saving her life. If she lived, she could have permanent neurological damage, leaving her possibly like a vegetable.
After many tears, Daughter and I said goodbye to Annabelle yesterday afternoon.
We talked to her and loved her. We pet her gently so as not to cause her pain. Our vet allowed us to stay with her as long as we needed. As she disappeared to the back room in the technician's arms, we said goodbye. We saw her for the last time as the puppy we loved, still with life in her eyes and a sweetness on her face.
So, other than to tell you about my life, why am I sharing this with you? I can tell you it's not to make you cry or to discourage you from rescuing an animal. No, quite the opposite.
Annabelle's story needs to be told.
Her story is a painful reminder of what is happening to animals in our society. They need homes. They need vaccinations early. Annabelle was vaccinated by the rescue organization. It was just too late for her. She had most likely contracted the disease before they found her. She was kept in foster care long enough for most symptoms of illness to show.
Although they didn't save her life, the rescue volunteers were able to make her last days wonderful. We were able to make her death a peaceful one. Death from distemper is violent and painful. I can't imagine what Annabelle would have suffered if she'd been left on the streets.
After a lot of crying, I have to tell you that anger pushes through all my tears. Annabelle's hope for survival should have begun the day she was born. Instead, she was tossed to the streets like garbage, left to starve, covered in parasites, and fighting for life.
I'm angry that people dump dogs and cats on the street. I'm angry that they are euthanized because of sickness, or worse- because no one wants them. What does this say about us?
But I am also grateful for those who give these creatures a chance, the rescue organizations, the Mrs. P.'s and the children in the world who let their hearts lead them to these wonderful animals. As painful as it is for all of them to say goodbye to a sweet puppy, like our Annabelle, their courage and compassion make a huge difference in a small, precious life.
Please don't let Annabelle's story discourage you from saving one of those lives. Let it inspire you to save just one.
Or at least to try.
"Never, never be afraid to do what's right, especially if the well-being of a person or animal is at stake. Society's punishments are small compared to the wounds we inflict on our soul when we look the other way."
— Martin Luther King Jr.
She was seen running the neighborhood for a long time. A good Samaritan finally caught her and her companion, a pregnant poodle. She was covered in ticks and fleas, her fur was a mess, she had a runny nose, and had probably never tasted real food before.
She hadn't even celebrated her first birthday.
Fortunately for her and her poodle friend, there are people who love the helpless ones in society, people who care for those who can't care for themselves. They took her in, gave her much needed veterinarian care, and loved her more than she had been loved since she was born.
We met her Friday at the foster mom's home. I could see from Annabelle's reaction to her, that this sweet lady had really taken care of this puppy. Annabelle wagged her tail at her and gave her kisses.
Mrs. P. had packed her a little bag to go home with us, just like a mom would do when she sends her kid off to Grandma's.
Inside her packed bag were Annabelle's leash, supplements, comfort items for her nose and eyes, a pink, soft blanket and specially prepared food of lean ground beef and rice (a gourmet meal for a pup with a sensitive tummy.) Mrs. P. had written out careful instructions including what she ate, how often to feed her, what she liked, and that she was a good cuddler. I knew from all the instructions and careful packing, Mrs. P. loved her as much as any human mom could. (You have no idea how grateful I am for that.)
The rescue volunteer took our picture with Annabelle on Mrs. P.'s porch. Then Daughter and I loaded her and her specially packed bag in the car and drove her home.
As soon as she was home with us, she found the sofa. I kept thinking that, after so many months of sleeping only God knows where, it must be nice to have a soft place to land. She was able to sleep well at Mrs. P.'s home and now ours.
So our life with Annabelle began. I warmed Mrs. P's special gourmet meal for her, followed her instructions, and we all loved her and spoiled her as she deserved. She had a leftover stuffy nose and the rescue folks thought it just needed more antibiotics or allergy medications. They asked if we wanted to wait to take her home, but in my heart I knew she was supposed to come home with us on Friday.
On Monday I scheduled a new puppy appointment with our vet. I wanted him to meet her and check her out and see if he could do something new for her runny nose. He examined her, treated her with antibiotics and gave her allergy medication. We scheduled a follow-up visit in a week.
Yesterday she was not well. She screamed when we tried to pick her up, she yelped when we tried to move her. I knew something was wrong and she was in pain.
We took her back to the vet and, after blood work and other tests, he determined that she had distemper.
Distemper is a horrible disease. Seizures eventually set in, causing pain and loss of bodily functions. The pain she was experiencing from us holding her was a sign that her brain was sending the wrong signals. What should be a normal, pleasant touch was painful to Annabelle. Any treatment our vet would have given had a slim chance of saving her life. If she lived, she could have permanent neurological damage, leaving her possibly like a vegetable.
After many tears, Daughter and I said goodbye to Annabelle yesterday afternoon.
We talked to her and loved her. We pet her gently so as not to cause her pain. Our vet allowed us to stay with her as long as we needed. As she disappeared to the back room in the technician's arms, we said goodbye. We saw her for the last time as the puppy we loved, still with life in her eyes and a sweetness on her face.
So, other than to tell you about my life, why am I sharing this with you? I can tell you it's not to make you cry or to discourage you from rescuing an animal. No, quite the opposite.
Annabelle's story needs to be told.
Her story is a painful reminder of what is happening to animals in our society. They need homes. They need vaccinations early. Annabelle was vaccinated by the rescue organization. It was just too late for her. She had most likely contracted the disease before they found her. She was kept in foster care long enough for most symptoms of illness to show.
Although they didn't save her life, the rescue volunteers were able to make her last days wonderful. We were able to make her death a peaceful one. Death from distemper is violent and painful. I can't imagine what Annabelle would have suffered if she'd been left on the streets.
After a lot of crying, I have to tell you that anger pushes through all my tears. Annabelle's hope for survival should have begun the day she was born. Instead, she was tossed to the streets like garbage, left to starve, covered in parasites, and fighting for life.
I'm angry that people dump dogs and cats on the street. I'm angry that they are euthanized because of sickness, or worse- because no one wants them. What does this say about us?
But I am also grateful for those who give these creatures a chance, the rescue organizations, the Mrs. P.'s and the children in the world who let their hearts lead them to these wonderful animals. As painful as it is for all of them to say goodbye to a sweet puppy, like our Annabelle, their courage and compassion make a huge difference in a small, precious life.
Please don't let Annabelle's story discourage you from saving one of those lives. Let it inspire you to save just one.
Or at least to try.
"Never, never be afraid to do what's right, especially if the well-being of a person or animal is at stake. Society's punishments are small compared to the wounds we inflict on our soul when we look the other way."
— Martin Luther King Jr.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Home Is Where They Love You
If I have grammatical errors this morning, I apologize. It is hard to see my "theirs" and "theres" due to my sleepy, blurred vision. We have a new puppy.
The thing about puppies is they have bladders the size of a gnat, much like their attention span. But they also have hearts the size of Lake Michigan, so I can't complain.
We met her on Friday. She's a sweet poodle/terrier mix who was rescued from the streets by a great foster program. Her foster mom gave her a lot of love and for that, we are grateful.
Strays don't come with papers or a family tree, so your guess about her history is as good as mine. From the looks of her sweet face, I can tell she's glad that she's home.
And so are we.
Welcome to your furever home, Annabelle!
The thing about puppies is they have bladders the size of a gnat, much like their attention span. But they also have hearts the size of Lake Michigan, so I can't complain.
We met her on Friday. She's a sweet poodle/terrier mix who was rescued from the streets by a great foster program. Her foster mom gave her a lot of love and for that, we are grateful.
Strays don't come with papers or a family tree, so your guess about her history is as good as mine. From the looks of her sweet face, I can tell she's glad that she's home.
And so are we.
Welcome to your furever home, Annabelle!
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Remembering 9-11
"What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly:
it is dearness only that gives every thing its value.
Heaven knows how to put a proper price upon its goods;
and it would be strange indeed
if so celestial an article as FREEDOM
should not be highly rated." Thomas Paine
Friday, September 10, 2010
On A Different Note
The thing about Random Dozens and memes of the sort is that sometimes we inadvertently reveal something about ourselves that we otherwise would keep hidden. Sometimes it is a huge character flaw. Sometimes it is an embarrassing situation. And sometimes it's both.
Yanni.
Somehow, in the midst of my meme madness last week, I admitted that Yanni was the last concert I attended. I realized that this was uncool, but I had no idea how uncool it was until a few of you commented and/or emailed me. Apparently, I'm not hip.
This, or course, came as a complete shock to me.
Cough. Cough.
Now that the cat is out of the bag, or the pink, dorky elephant is in the room, as it were, I have to explain my Yanni fondness.
Way back in the day, in the mid-nineties, when Meg Ryan still looked cute and everyone thought she was married to Tom Hanks, I loved Yanni. I had all of his CD's, including the "Best Of" collection. Yes, m'am, I loved him almost as much as Linda Evans.
We were living near Pensacola at the time, and what would you know? Yanni was coming to town. Right around my birthday. It was fate.
I asked Hubs if we could go and because he loves me dearly and has some sort of issues, he agreed to take me to the Yanni concert for my birthday. At the time, he was working in a place which was primarily men. Somehow word got out that he was taking me to the Yanni concert. Yanni and red-blooded, American men go together like Al Gore and SUV's.
One day at work, someone announced on the intercom, "Hubs (only they called him by his real name), please come to the front desk and pick up your Yanni tickets."
Needless to say, the ribbing and teasing began, but Hubs took it like a man and also took me to the concert, like a man. I absolutely loved it and he managed to sit through the entire performance without his ears bleeding. To this day, I know it is one of the greatest expressions of love he's ever shown. Well, that, and the time he sat up with me at the ER while I pewked my guts out.
If you ask him, I'm sure he'd tell you there really wasn't much difference between the two.
As for me, I still secretly love to pop in a Yanni CD when I'm feeling especially uncool. Linda has since moved on, but I'm still a fan.
For the record, I do not like Barry Manilow. I may be a Yanni geek, but let's not get crazy!
Yanni.
Somehow, in the midst of my meme madness last week, I admitted that Yanni was the last concert I attended. I realized that this was uncool, but I had no idea how uncool it was until a few of you commented and/or emailed me. Apparently, I'm not hip.
This, or course, came as a complete shock to me.
Cough. Cough.
Now that the cat is out of the bag, or the pink, dorky elephant is in the room, as it were, I have to explain my Yanni fondness.
Way back in the day, in the mid-nineties, when Meg Ryan still looked cute and everyone thought she was married to Tom Hanks, I loved Yanni. I had all of his CD's, including the "Best Of" collection. Yes, m'am, I loved him almost as much as Linda Evans.
We were living near Pensacola at the time, and what would you know? Yanni was coming to town. Right around my birthday. It was fate.
I asked Hubs if we could go and because he loves me dearly and has some sort of issues, he agreed to take me to the Yanni concert for my birthday. At the time, he was working in a place which was primarily men. Somehow word got out that he was taking me to the Yanni concert. Yanni and red-blooded, American men go together like Al Gore and SUV's.
One day at work, someone announced on the intercom, "Hubs (only they called him by his real name), please come to the front desk and pick up your Yanni tickets."
Needless to say, the ribbing and teasing began, but Hubs took it like a man and also took me to the concert, like a man. I absolutely loved it and he managed to sit through the entire performance without his ears bleeding. To this day, I know it is one of the greatest expressions of love he's ever shown. Well, that, and the time he sat up with me at the ER while I pewked my guts out.
If you ask him, I'm sure he'd tell you there really wasn't much difference between the two.
As for me, I still secretly love to pop in a Yanni CD when I'm feeling especially uncool. Linda has since moved on, but I'm still a fan.
For the record, I do not like Barry Manilow. I may be a Yanni geek, but let's not get crazy!
Thursday, September 09, 2010
Please take this all down, Miss Hathaway.
I woke up this morning, got coffee, fixed breakfast, rushed Daughter off to school, kissed Hubs good-bye, and sat down to catch up on emails and such. I found a nice, sweet note from Nancy warning me to update my blog or else I was banned from the walking moms group.
She's such a doll.
Seriously, she's one of my BFF's and is only motivating me to do what she knows I love best- write.
I'd do the same for her. So, Nanc, if I learn you let a week go by without painting or printing or otherwise exercising your creative genius, I will ban you from the walking group and/or from all those peanuts we're going to boil when the peanut crop is in. Nuff said.
The truth is that I have at least five posts saved in archives that need tweaking or editing or whathaveyou. At some point, you look at a post and think, "Ehhh... that's old now. What's the point?"
Eventually, I just start all over with a new post, which in this case, begins with a threat from one of my best friends.
Insert Transitional Paragraph Here.
Last weekend we went to Amarillo, or as we like to call it, Town.
Daughter needed some school clothes as we have out shopped SmallTown. Half of her class is wearing the same Dillard tops and Wal-Mart socks, resulting in what could be the new school uniform. We have never cared about looking a certain way or being fashionable, but when you have purchased nearly every single top or jeans at the local department stores, it's time to go out of town. .
On our way, we passed through Hereford. Hereford has like 1000 cows per person or something, so every time we drive through I have to hold my nose. Hubs told me then I'd have to breathe it in through my mouth, an ugly, yet less smelly choice.
On this trip we pulled over to take pictures of all the cattle to share with family back home. Hubs pulled to the side of the road, opened the sun roof, and stood in the seat to take a photo. All the while I was yelling for him to hurry up because the flies kept coming in the car. He eventually took a panoramic, so as to include all the bovine, and I still haven't checked to see if it turned out.
When we arrived in Amarillo, we went straight to PetSmart. We have been looking for a dog since we lost Maggie, and PetSmart was hosting an adoption event. Well, we thought they were hosting one. When we got there, a sign was posted at the adoption area announcing that the local shelter would not be bringing any dogs that day. So we all piled back in the car and drove to the shelter. We didn't find a dog, but we did get to play with a few pups.
The rest of the afternoon was spent finding Daughter some clothes from stores other than Dillard and Wal-mart. Note to Justice- Please offer espresso for moms. The two hour dressing room event would be much more tolerable.
After a very successful cool school clothes shopping marathon, we all went to World Market. The foods and kitchen items and colorful decor tickled my poor deprived SmallTown self. I felt the same way Granny did when she saw the cement pond. Only Granny didn't buy Italian soda and olives.
Our other adventure included a visit to Cadillac Ranch, the place where some artists buried cars in the ground and now tourists freely spray paint messages and smiley faces. It's the first time I have actually done any graffiti, partly because it was completely allowed. For some of you, I know that totally takes the fun out of it.
Before we headed home, we went for a late lunch, dinner (or linner, as we call it) at Red Robin. The mushroom burger? YUM!
So that was the weekend we went to town. Stinky cows, shelter dogs, school clothes shopping, yummy food, and a moment with some great artistic Americana.
It was big fun or as Jed would say, "Whewwww, Doggie!"
She's such a doll.
Seriously, she's one of my BFF's and is only motivating me to do what she knows I love best- write.
I'd do the same for her. So, Nanc, if I learn you let a week go by without painting or printing or otherwise exercising your creative genius, I will ban you from the walking group and/or from all those peanuts we're going to boil when the peanut crop is in. Nuff said.
The truth is that I have at least five posts saved in archives that need tweaking or editing or whathaveyou. At some point, you look at a post and think, "Ehhh... that's old now. What's the point?"
Eventually, I just start all over with a new post, which in this case, begins with a threat from one of my best friends.
Insert Transitional Paragraph Here.
Last weekend we went to Amarillo, or as we like to call it, Town.
Daughter needed some school clothes as we have out shopped SmallTown. Half of her class is wearing the same Dillard tops and Wal-Mart socks, resulting in what could be the new school uniform. We have never cared about looking a certain way or being fashionable, but when you have purchased nearly every single top or jeans at the local department stores, it's time to go out of town. .
On our way, we passed through Hereford. Hereford has like 1000 cows per person or something, so every time we drive through I have to hold my nose. Hubs told me then I'd have to breathe it in through my mouth, an ugly, yet less smelly choice.
On this trip we pulled over to take pictures of all the cattle to share with family back home. Hubs pulled to the side of the road, opened the sun roof, and stood in the seat to take a photo. All the while I was yelling for him to hurry up because the flies kept coming in the car. He eventually took a panoramic, so as to include all the bovine, and I still haven't checked to see if it turned out.
When we arrived in Amarillo, we went straight to PetSmart. We have been looking for a dog since we lost Maggie, and PetSmart was hosting an adoption event. Well, we thought they were hosting one. When we got there, a sign was posted at the adoption area announcing that the local shelter would not be bringing any dogs that day. So we all piled back in the car and drove to the shelter. We didn't find a dog, but we did get to play with a few pups.
The rest of the afternoon was spent finding Daughter some clothes from stores other than Dillard and Wal-mart. Note to Justice- Please offer espresso for moms. The two hour dressing room event would be much more tolerable.
After a very successful cool school clothes shopping marathon, we all went to World Market. The foods and kitchen items and colorful decor tickled my poor deprived SmallTown self. I felt the same way Granny did when she saw the cement pond. Only Granny didn't buy Italian soda and olives.
Our other adventure included a visit to Cadillac Ranch, the place where some artists buried cars in the ground and now tourists freely spray paint messages and smiley faces. It's the first time I have actually done any graffiti, partly because it was completely allowed. For some of you, I know that totally takes the fun out of it.
Before we headed home, we went for a late lunch, dinner (or linner, as we call it) at Red Robin. The mushroom burger? YUM!
So that was the weekend we went to town. Stinky cows, shelter dogs, school clothes shopping, yummy food, and a moment with some great artistic Americana.
It was big fun or as Jed would say, "Whewwww, Doggie!"
Wednesday, September 01, 2010
Lid's Random Dozen: Interpretation Of Dreams And Creepy Bug Question
1. What insect are you most afraid of? Feel free to post a picture.
New Mexico fire ant. I was bitten/stung a few weeks ago and it felt like a knife went through my skin. OUCH! These cowboy fire ants are much tougher than the Georgia redneck ones I grew up with. Mr. Bug man came and made them go away. (That's my nice way of saying he obliterated them.)
There are insects in the rainforest that make me freak out a little, but I won't list them here since I don't think I'll ever be in the rainforest.
2. What is the greenest/most organic thing about you or that you do?
The greenest would be when I ride the rides at the fair... oh, that was bad.
Seriously, we drink organic dairy. I started out choosing organic dairy to avoid the hormones in our diet, but now I also just love the taste. And organic sour cream? Oh, you'll want more than a dollop!
3. Tell me about a recurring dream that haunts you.
OK, Lid. What is this? The therapy edition of Random? First my scariest bug and now my dreams?
I don't have any recurring dreams anymore. However, it always bothers me when I dream about something bad happening to someone I know. I always want to call them up and warn them. I don't think I'm being given any message or anything- just makes you think.
4. Have you ever missed a flight? What were the circumstances?
No, but I've come really close. On our trip this summer our first flight took off late and we had about 10 minutes to get to the next one. Lucky us, the second flight was delayed for maintenance. This was the first time I was glad the plane had maintenance issues.
5. What do you consider your best feature?
Physical- Eyes
Other- I really like to encourage and help people.
6. What was the last concert you went to?
Ummm... Yanni. In 1997
7. Describe the most embarrassing church moment you ever experienced.
I was about 12 years old. I sang a duet with a friend. My friend missed her notes and at the end, she stood there in front of everyone and did the "gun to your head" gesture with her finger. The congregation laughed, but I'm pretty sure that's a prime example of "quenching the Spirit."
8. Are you a whistler, hummer or singer?
Singer, unless Andy Griffith is coming on.
9. George Washington Carver said, "I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station, through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only tune in." What is God saying to you through nature today, or this very minute?
God is saying, "Ragweed is an example of my mystery."
No really, nature always reminds me that things smaller than me and larger than me go on with their lives without my knowledge or involvement. Just watch a Live Oak weather a storm or a fire ant make an ant hill. All of God's Creation is important to Him and in His control.
10. On September, 1, 1752, the Liberty Bell arrived in Philadelphia. What memorable event will take place in your life on September 1, 2010?
I will post the Random Dozen before noon.
11. Taco Bell or the Liberty Bell? (You must choose.)
The Liberty Bell. I am a patriotic mess.
Although, I really should choose Taco Bell. That story later...
12. Do you believe men and women can have purely platonic friendships?
Not a close one. I know a lot of people disagree, but I have seen that usually at least one or the other begins to have feelings beyond friendship, even if the other does not share those feelings. This may come as a shock to you, since I am always quoting Jerry and Elaine. But, HELLO, that's a TV show.
Visit Linda for more randoms. Her Random rocked this week, even with all the creepy bug questions. ;)
New Mexico fire ant. I was bitten/stung a few weeks ago and it felt like a knife went through my skin. OUCH! These cowboy fire ants are much tougher than the Georgia redneck ones I grew up with. Mr. Bug man came and made them go away. (That's my nice way of saying he obliterated them.)
There are insects in the rainforest that make me freak out a little, but I won't list them here since I don't think I'll ever be in the rainforest.
2. What is the greenest/most organic thing about you or that you do?
The greenest would be when I ride the rides at the fair... oh, that was bad.
Seriously, we drink organic dairy. I started out choosing organic dairy to avoid the hormones in our diet, but now I also just love the taste. And organic sour cream? Oh, you'll want more than a dollop!
3. Tell me about a recurring dream that haunts you.
OK, Lid. What is this? The therapy edition of Random? First my scariest bug and now my dreams?
I don't have any recurring dreams anymore. However, it always bothers me when I dream about something bad happening to someone I know. I always want to call them up and warn them. I don't think I'm being given any message or anything- just makes you think.
4. Have you ever missed a flight? What were the circumstances?
No, but I've come really close. On our trip this summer our first flight took off late and we had about 10 minutes to get to the next one. Lucky us, the second flight was delayed for maintenance. This was the first time I was glad the plane had maintenance issues.
5. What do you consider your best feature?
Physical- Eyes
Other- I really like to encourage and help people.
6. What was the last concert you went to?
Ummm... Yanni. In 1997
7. Describe the most embarrassing church moment you ever experienced.
I was about 12 years old. I sang a duet with a friend. My friend missed her notes and at the end, she stood there in front of everyone and did the "gun to your head" gesture with her finger. The congregation laughed, but I'm pretty sure that's a prime example of "quenching the Spirit."
8. Are you a whistler, hummer or singer?
Singer, unless Andy Griffith is coming on.
9. George Washington Carver said, "I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station, through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only tune in." What is God saying to you through nature today, or this very minute?
God is saying, "Ragweed is an example of my mystery."
No really, nature always reminds me that things smaller than me and larger than me go on with their lives without my knowledge or involvement. Just watch a Live Oak weather a storm or a fire ant make an ant hill. All of God's Creation is important to Him and in His control.
10. On September, 1, 1752, the Liberty Bell arrived in Philadelphia. What memorable event will take place in your life on September 1, 2010?
I will post the Random Dozen before noon.
11. Taco Bell or the Liberty Bell? (You must choose.)
The Liberty Bell. I am a patriotic mess.
Although, I really should choose Taco Bell. That story later...
12. Do you believe men and women can have purely platonic friendships?
Not a close one. I know a lot of people disagree, but I have seen that usually at least one or the other begins to have feelings beyond friendship, even if the other does not share those feelings. This may come as a shock to you, since I am always quoting Jerry and Elaine. But, HELLO, that's a TV show.
Visit Linda for more randoms. Her Random rocked this week, even with all the creepy bug questions. ;)
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