I nearly forgot my password to blogger. It's been that long.
Things got a little nuts around SmallTown. Our new pup ran a fever for a day, nearly scared us to death, and then ended up being perfectly fine. I think I lost a few brain cells and perhaps have a new bald spot, but other than that, we're good.
Other than near nervous breakdowns, other things have kept us busy.
This week we have worked on Daughter's science fair project. She has tested which microwave popcorn brand pops best. Our house smelled like popcorn for two days. I lit one of my fall candles and then it just smelled like pumpkin popcorn. That had burned. Badly.
Speaking of pumpkins, we carved one for Halloween, put it on the porch, and left it. A WEEK LATER I walked out the front door (which we never use) and saw our sad little pumpkin melting and molding away like a really bad science fair project. His crooked smile had turned to a painful frown and his eyes were weeping in ways that vegetables tend to do when they are left outside to decay for days and days.
I scooped him up, put him in a garbage bag, and respectfully tossed him in the trash. It was quite tragic. Then I bleached the porch. The smell of bleach is so welcoming when you enter a home.
As you can see, even though I haven't posted in a sweet forever, you haven't missed that much.
You're welcome.
Happy Weekend!
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Wednesday, November 03, 2010
Test Test
I'm still here.
It has been busy in SmallTown.
Will post as soon as I can catch my breath...
It has been busy in SmallTown.
Will post as soon as I can catch my breath...
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Puppies and Toddlers
The highlight of our week has been our new puppy. She is about 7 months old, full of energy and very funny. Rescued from an abandoned field, she had been in foster care for some time and now has found her furever home with us. Daughter named her "Jessie" (from Toy Story) and it fits.
I'll post pictures later. Once I've figured out how to keep her still long enough.
As you can see, we've been quite busy.
Everyone says having a puppy is like having a baby, but I tend to disagree. Babies sleep all the time. You can put babies somewhere and they don't move. You can strap them in a car seat and watch them in your little mommy mirror. NOT PUPPIES.
No.
Puppies move. A lot. They jump on your head while you nap on the couch. They climb in your lap while you are driving, making you hope and pray that you won't have to hit the breaks or get pulled over by the cops because, hello, your passenger bites.
Nope. Puppies are nothing at all like babies. Puppies are more like toddlers.
Toddlers want to be everywhere all the time. They wake you up while you try to nap on the couch. They would love to climb out of the car seat while you drive, and believe you me, they try.
Like with toddlers, you teach your puppy the right way to behave and they try, only when it is in their best interest. Puppies sit or stay or lay down (maybe) if you give them a treat.
Toddlers stop screaming in Wal-mart if you bribe them with a Happy Meal.
Of course, this is only in the beginning of training. Eventually they do what you tell them because they want to please you. Until they become teenagers.
Puppies are learning where and when to go potty. Sometimes they go outside. Sometimes they go inside. They try not to have an accident on the carpet, but really, they don't care because someone else is going to clean it up.
Toddlers are in the potty-training phase. They want to please mama and daddy and they love to wear their new Disney character undies. But, really they don't care if they have an accident because someone else it going to clean it up.
And sometimes they go outside.
When a puppy suddenly gets quiet and disappears into the other room, you'd better put your coffee down and check on her. She is probably chewing your new shoes from Steinmart or eating something from the trash.
While you're on Facebook, your toddler tiptoes down the hall. You find her standing in your closet, wearing your new shoes from Steinmart while eating that half of a Hershey bar you thought you threw in the trash.
Let's face it. You spend half the day saying, "What a good girl," and the other half saying, "What did you do?"
Yes. Puppies and toddlers have a lot in common.
Puppies and toddlers are scared of strange noises. Like the dishwasher and Cookie Monster.
Puppies and toddlers have big bellies that are warm and usually smell like their last meal. Or something they rolled in.
Puppies and toddlers hate storms, firecrackers, and scary-looking people.
Puppies and toddlers are good judges of character.
They love children, ice cream, and warm blankets.
They can sleep wherever they land.
They throw up when they eat too many treats.
They love you unconditionally. They cuddle with you in the mornings, but just for a moment until they've moved on to something new.
Yes, puppies and toddlers are a lot alike. Before you know it, they are eating grown-up food and napping less, learning new things and exploring on their own. You turn around, and they are all grown up.
And, thank goodness, they finally stopped going on the carpet.
I'll post pictures later. Once I've figured out how to keep her still long enough.
As you can see, we've been quite busy.
Everyone says having a puppy is like having a baby, but I tend to disagree. Babies sleep all the time. You can put babies somewhere and they don't move. You can strap them in a car seat and watch them in your little mommy mirror. NOT PUPPIES.
No.
Puppies move. A lot. They jump on your head while you nap on the couch. They climb in your lap while you are driving, making you hope and pray that you won't have to hit the breaks or get pulled over by the cops because, hello, your passenger bites.
Nope. Puppies are nothing at all like babies. Puppies are more like toddlers.
Toddlers want to be everywhere all the time. They wake you up while you try to nap on the couch. They would love to climb out of the car seat while you drive, and believe you me, they try.
Like with toddlers, you teach your puppy the right way to behave and they try, only when it is in their best interest. Puppies sit or stay or lay down (maybe) if you give them a treat.
Toddlers stop screaming in Wal-mart if you bribe them with a Happy Meal.
Of course, this is only in the beginning of training. Eventually they do what you tell them because they want to please you. Until they become teenagers.
Puppies are learning where and when to go potty. Sometimes they go outside. Sometimes they go inside. They try not to have an accident on the carpet, but really, they don't care because someone else is going to clean it up.
Toddlers are in the potty-training phase. They want to please mama and daddy and they love to wear their new Disney character undies. But, really they don't care if they have an accident because someone else it going to clean it up.
And sometimes they go outside.
When a puppy suddenly gets quiet and disappears into the other room, you'd better put your coffee down and check on her. She is probably chewing your new shoes from Steinmart or eating something from the trash.
While you're on Facebook, your toddler tiptoes down the hall. You find her standing in your closet, wearing your new shoes from Steinmart while eating that half of a Hershey bar you thought you threw in the trash.
Let's face it. You spend half the day saying, "What a good girl," and the other half saying, "What did you do?"
Yes. Puppies and toddlers have a lot in common.
Puppies and toddlers are scared of strange noises. Like the dishwasher and Cookie Monster.
Puppies and toddlers have big bellies that are warm and usually smell like their last meal. Or something they rolled in.
Puppies and toddlers hate storms, firecrackers, and scary-looking people.
Puppies and toddlers are good judges of character.
They love children, ice cream, and warm blankets.
They can sleep wherever they land.
They throw up when they eat too many treats.
They love you unconditionally. They cuddle with you in the mornings, but just for a moment until they've moved on to something new.
Yes, puppies and toddlers are a lot alike. Before you know it, they are eating grown-up food and napping less, learning new things and exploring on their own. You turn around, and they are all grown up.
And, thank goodness, they finally stopped going on the carpet.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Is this thing still on?
I think I may have broken a record for amount of time not posting. At least I accomplished something.
It has been a busy week for us. Not busy in that there is a lot of blog material, but busy in that I want to take lots of naps and watch old episodes of Andy Griffith.
I have some things to share, but in the meantime, I have to comment on The Amazing Race.
First, I am glad the Ivy League Singers are gone. I couldn't take all the singing. No one goes through life just bursting in song. That's just for TV and movies, which I guess they were kind of on, but it's a reality show, so hello.
I can't decide whether I like the home shopping team or not. On the one hand, I find their over-friendliness a bit inappropriate. I mean, who hugs a person in a foreign country after he purchased sunglasses? On the other hand, they can be funny.
I find myself both rooting for the father/son team and saying, "COME ON."
I was glad someone had to eat something weird. I have no idea why. It was just time.
Phil cracked me up with his eyebrow communication.
I hope they go to South America this time. It's been a while.
I find the lack of drama between teams this year (compared to last season) to be very refreshing.
That is all.
It has been a busy week for us. Not busy in that there is a lot of blog material, but busy in that I want to take lots of naps and watch old episodes of Andy Griffith.
I have some things to share, but in the meantime, I have to comment on The Amazing Race.
First, I am glad the Ivy League Singers are gone. I couldn't take all the singing. No one goes through life just bursting in song. That's just for TV and movies, which I guess they were kind of on, but it's a reality show, so hello.
I can't decide whether I like the home shopping team or not. On the one hand, I find their over-friendliness a bit inappropriate. I mean, who hugs a person in a foreign country after he purchased sunglasses? On the other hand, they can be funny.
I find myself both rooting for the father/son team and saying, "COME ON."
I was glad someone had to eat something weird. I have no idea why. It was just time.
Phil cracked me up with his eyebrow communication.
I hope they go to South America this time. It's been a while.
I find the lack of drama between teams this year (compared to last season) to be very refreshing.
That is all.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Weekend Wrap Up: That's it?
Well, the weekend was about as bland as could be. Daughter is still not 100%, so our days were filled with episodes of Spongebob on the couch interrupted by trips to Wal-mart "just to get out of the house."
There is some sort of cough/sort throat combo going around and, unlike the corn dog/cherry limeade combo we get from Sonic, it is neither filling nor refreshing.
I'm about ready to be over this sickness thing. It's hard to see your kid cough up a lung. Last time I checked, those things are important.
I do have to thank you for all the FABULOUS pumpkin recipes you left in your comments. As soon as everyone's taste buds return to full capacity I am going to try them.
And thanks for understanding my prepositional grammar issues. Apparently, bloggers love to break grammar rules as long as they are on our own blogs. Contrast that with the watchful editing we do on church bulletins and praise music screens, and you have what some literary folks call IRONY.
LOVE IT.
I AM ALSO NOW ADDICTED TO ALL CAPS.
I"LL STOP THAT NOW.
you are welcome
Speaking of church, we had to leave during the music yesterday. Daughter started to feel flushed and funny and in the mom world we know that's a sign of upcoming doom. Since the traditional baptist church decor does not normally provide Wal-mart bags or small trash cans for illness, we excused ourselves quietly. We managed to get home without incident and she was fine. It was just one of those things, but why take the chance?
That reminds me, a friend of mine once told a story about a person fainting during the church service. Her mama thought he was slain with the Spirit. As it turned out, he just had low blood sugar.
So, today I have a million errands to do (which could make good blogger fodder) and yet I sit and blog.
Again, irony.
There is some sort of cough/sort throat combo going around and, unlike the corn dog/cherry limeade combo we get from Sonic, it is neither filling nor refreshing.
I'm about ready to be over this sickness thing. It's hard to see your kid cough up a lung. Last time I checked, those things are important.
I do have to thank you for all the FABULOUS pumpkin recipes you left in your comments. As soon as everyone's taste buds return to full capacity I am going to try them.
And thanks for understanding my prepositional grammar issues. Apparently, bloggers love to break grammar rules as long as they are on our own blogs. Contrast that with the watchful editing we do on church bulletins and praise music screens, and you have what some literary folks call IRONY.
LOVE IT.
I AM ALSO NOW ADDICTED TO ALL CAPS.
I"LL STOP THAT NOW.
you are welcome
Speaking of church, we had to leave during the music yesterday. Daughter started to feel flushed and funny and in the mom world we know that's a sign of upcoming doom. Since the traditional baptist church decor does not normally provide Wal-mart bags or small trash cans for illness, we excused ourselves quietly. We managed to get home without incident and she was fine. It was just one of those things, but why take the chance?
That reminds me, a friend of mine once told a story about a person fainting during the church service. Her mama thought he was slain with the Spirit. As it turned out, he just had low blood sugar.
So, today I have a million errands to do (which could make good blogger fodder) and yet I sit and blog.
Again, irony.
Friday, October 15, 2010
The Break-up And My Grammar Issues
Today I have a sick kid on the sofa, laundry in the chair, more on the floor of the closet (it spilleth over the basket) and a grocery list I haven't even written yet.
So, I will resort to my precious standby, THE LIST.
For some reason Blogger just tried to ask me to switch my font color. How weird.
1. The weather has been so fickle this week. One day it feels like fall, the next day summer. Sometimes it changes in the same day. Summer has begun to feel like an old boyfriend who just won't break up with you. Enough. I'll give you your letter jacket and your class ring back. It's time to move on.
2. I'm looking forward to Fashion Week on Project Runway.
3. Each week I say I'm going to stop writing so many sentences which begin with a preposition or a conjunction for effect.
But then I do it anyway.
And regret it when I edit.
But then leave it.
And then blog about my grammar issues.
I have many. I critique school flyers and store signs.
4. I am still amazed that the five of you (most of whom I'm related to- there goes that grammar) still read this stuff.
5. My porch is still without pumpkins. I have a bench out front with a fall leaf garland draped on it, so at least now the wreath has someone to talk to.
6. I've been craving Chile's Quesadilla Salad and Pei Wei. Chile's is down the road and Pei Wei is 2 hours away. That rhymed a little.
7. I am in the mood for some kind of pumpkin recipe this weekend. Any ideas?
Y'all have a great weekend!
So, I will resort to my precious standby, THE LIST.
For some reason Blogger just tried to ask me to switch my font color. How weird.
1. The weather has been so fickle this week. One day it feels like fall, the next day summer. Sometimes it changes in the same day. Summer has begun to feel like an old boyfriend who just won't break up with you. Enough. I'll give you your letter jacket and your class ring back. It's time to move on.
2. I'm looking forward to Fashion Week on Project Runway.
3. Each week I say I'm going to stop writing so many sentences which begin with a preposition or a conjunction for effect.
But then I do it anyway.
And regret it when I edit.
But then leave it.
And then blog about my grammar issues.
I have many. I critique school flyers and store signs.
4. I am still amazed that the five of you (most of whom I'm related to- there goes that grammar) still read this stuff.
5. My porch is still without pumpkins. I have a bench out front with a fall leaf garland draped on it, so at least now the wreath has someone to talk to.
6. I've been craving Chile's Quesadilla Salad and Pei Wei. Chile's is down the road and Pei Wei is 2 hours away. That rhymed a little.
7. I am in the mood for some kind of pumpkin recipe this weekend. Any ideas?
Y'all have a great weekend!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Random Dozen: Aigner and Finch
1. Is there a word which you initially mispronounced? Were the circumstances in which you made the faux pas embarrassing? By the way, that's not "foax pass." (I know you know that. Just jokin' with ya.)
I mispronounced Etienne Aigner in high school. I finally realized in college that my purse did not rhyme with "Abner."
2. How do you feel about the use of texting shortcuts and trends? (ex: "I've got ur notes. Get them 2 u 2morow.")
It depends on who I am texting and if I am trying to save space. Hubs doesn't mind. In fact, he has his own abbreviations.
We all know how that turned out.
3. Tell me about your high school senior picture. Please feel free to post.
I wasn't thrilled with the ones from school. Most of us had senior pictures that we ordered made at Olan Mills or somewhere else. The ones at school were poor quality.
I remember taking my picture at Olan Mills and planning how I'd do my hair, and picking out which gold chain I would wear with a sweater that had shoulder pads.
5. Share a high school or college homecoming memory.
I didn't go to high school or college homecoming. No dates for high school and college wasn't a big deal for our school. I really don't regret missing either of them.
6. Linda at Mocha with Linda wants to know: "Do you prefer sunrises or sunsets?"
Sunsets. I would have to get up early enough to see a sunrise. The only time I've done that on purpose was for Easter. (Worth it.) Otherwise, give me a sunset on the beach while eating crab legs or gulf shrimp. Ahhh...
7. Lea at Cici's Corner asks, "What is something you have not done that you desire to do?"
Hmmmm... I have to reach deep down in my not-adventurous self. This one is tough for me. I would like to go sailing at some point. Preferably, with the shore in sight.
8. Carol at Wanderings of an Elusive Mind ponders, "If you could come back [in another life] as an animal, which would it be?"
I'd have to say a household cat. That's the life.
9. Joyce from The Other Side of the Pond is curious: "Where were you 10 years ago?" Please feel free to elaborate more than just your physical location.
Geographically, I was in North Carolina. Figuratively, I was a new mom whose best friend and support had just moved. I discovered a lot about the real meaning of life and priorities. I also learned that I don't like East Carolina BBQ.
10. When you are proven to be correct in any contentious discussion, do you gloat?
I try not to. If it's Hubs, I rub it in just to be annoying.
11. What is your favorite food which includes the ingredient "caramel?"
I am not a fan of caramel, but I would have to go with caramel cake. Preferably from Dean's Cakes in Andalusia, Alabama.
12. From my 17 year-old daughter to you: "If you could be part of any fictional family, which family would you choose and why?" (She's so cute. And clever.)
This is one of the best questions in all the Randoms!
The Finch family from To Kill A Mockingbird. Scout witnessed so much change and pain and her father stood up for justice. She was smart, thoughtful, and free spirited. That kind of legacy and history would be incredible to pass along. I wonder what Scout would have become when she grew up.
Thanks, Lid and Friends (and Family!) for the great Random this week!
I mispronounced Etienne Aigner in high school. I finally realized in college that my purse did not rhyme with "Abner."
2. How do you feel about the use of texting shortcuts and trends? (ex: "I've got ur notes. Get them 2 u 2morow.")
It depends on who I am texting and if I am trying to save space. Hubs doesn't mind. In fact, he has his own abbreviations.
We all know how that turned out.
3. Tell me about your high school senior picture. Please feel free to post.
I wasn't thrilled with the ones from school. Most of us had senior pictures that we ordered made at Olan Mills or somewhere else. The ones at school were poor quality.
I remember taking my picture at Olan Mills and planning how I'd do my hair, and picking out which gold chain I would wear with a sweater that had shoulder pads.
5. Share a high school or college homecoming memory.
I didn't go to high school or college homecoming. No dates for high school and college wasn't a big deal for our school. I really don't regret missing either of them.
6. Linda at Mocha with Linda wants to know: "Do you prefer sunrises or sunsets?"
Sunsets. I would have to get up early enough to see a sunrise. The only time I've done that on purpose was for Easter. (Worth it.) Otherwise, give me a sunset on the beach while eating crab legs or gulf shrimp. Ahhh...
7. Lea at Cici's Corner asks, "What is something you have not done that you desire to do?"
Hmmmm... I have to reach deep down in my not-adventurous self. This one is tough for me. I would like to go sailing at some point. Preferably, with the shore in sight.
8. Carol at Wanderings of an Elusive Mind ponders, "If you could come back [in another life] as an animal, which would it be?"
I'd have to say a household cat. That's the life.
9. Joyce from The Other Side of the Pond is curious: "Where were you 10 years ago?" Please feel free to elaborate more than just your physical location.
Geographically, I was in North Carolina. Figuratively, I was a new mom whose best friend and support had just moved. I discovered a lot about the real meaning of life and priorities. I also learned that I don't like East Carolina BBQ.
10. When you are proven to be correct in any contentious discussion, do you gloat?
I try not to. If it's Hubs, I rub it in just to be annoying.
11. What is your favorite food which includes the ingredient "caramel?"
I am not a fan of caramel, but I would have to go with caramel cake. Preferably from Dean's Cakes in Andalusia, Alabama.
12. From my 17 year-old daughter to you: "If you could be part of any fictional family, which family would you choose and why?" (She's so cute. And clever.)
This is one of the best questions in all the Randoms!
The Finch family from To Kill A Mockingbird. Scout witnessed so much change and pain and her father stood up for justice. She was smart, thoughtful, and free spirited. That kind of legacy and history would be incredible to pass along. I wonder what Scout would have become when she grew up.
Thanks, Lid and Friends (and Family!) for the great Random this week!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Monday, October 11, 2010
Someone would have found America anyway.
Over 500 years ago, the king and queen of Spain sent Christopher Columbus (an Italian) on an all-expenses paid trip to Asia. In his quest for spices and treasures, he discovered America, but, technically he discovered what we now call The Caribbean.
Ironic, since I sit here typing this in the high plains of New Mexico instead of on a beach in The Bahamas.
Oh, those Spaniards and Italians and their twisted sense of humor. The least Chris could have done was send me an Olive Garden.
But that's all I'm going to say about that.
Our weekend has been pretty boring. Friday was a day off of school. Daughter and I both slept late, then got dressed for a walk. Along the way, she found some interesting items for the Odd Objects Jar, an old plastic gumball jar she and her friend, C. found. They put odd items in it like bolts and grass and weeds and bottle caps. On Friday, she found a huge straw on the side of the road. Not the Sonic Route 44 kind, but much bigger. This was the Golden Egg of odd objects.
On Saturday, after all my chores were halfway done, I went to Hobby Lobby and managed to walk out with less than a $20 purchase. I had the car washed, and then came home to get ready for a baby shower.
The shower was for a sweet young woman from Bible study. Nancy and I went to the shower together and it was one of the nicest showers I've attended. The hostesses were so gracious and the food was delicious. I have a sneaky suspicion that at least one of the hostesses is Southern, as evidenced by the deviled eggs, pretty tablecloth and dishes.
Not that non-Southerners don't own pretty tablecloths and dishes and know how to make deviled eggs. What are the odds of combining all three?
The hostesses also displayed the cutest little decoration that I am totally going to steal if I ever host a baby shower again. (It doesn't look like any of my friends will be having a baby at our age, so I'll wait until one of them has a grandchild in about 15 years.)
Along the wall, the hostesses had created a little clothesline with coordinating onesies. It was so sweet and simple and who would guess that a decoration could also double as a gift for the mom-to-be?! Genius!
It's here that I'll skip right to Sunday, because I pretty much came home after the shower and went to bed. Nancy kept me out until the late, late hour of 8:00 PM.
Daughter and I stayed home from church because we both had a cough and sore throat. (Not the same cough or throat, for you grammar snobs out there. Wink.)
Hers was worse than mine, so I managed to spend the day in yoga pants refilling drink glasses and coaxing down Children's Motrin. Hubs went to the store for us and got all of the ingredients for Paula's chicken noodle soup. (It was yummy!)
Today I feel a bit better, but Daughter is still not 100%. Drat, those allergies. So, it looks like she'll miss out on all the Columbus Day events which we really don't have, but still.
However, if Columbus had brought over that Olive Garden, I could be enjoying an endless pasta bowl. Instead, I'm looking out my window at grasslands and cows with that grade school rhyme about the ocean blue in my head.
Rub it in.
Ironic, since I sit here typing this in the high plains of New Mexico instead of on a beach in The Bahamas.
Oh, those Spaniards and Italians and their twisted sense of humor. The least Chris could have done was send me an Olive Garden.
But that's all I'm going to say about that.
Our weekend has been pretty boring. Friday was a day off of school. Daughter and I both slept late, then got dressed for a walk. Along the way, she found some interesting items for the Odd Objects Jar, an old plastic gumball jar she and her friend, C. found. They put odd items in it like bolts and grass and weeds and bottle caps. On Friday, she found a huge straw on the side of the road. Not the Sonic Route 44 kind, but much bigger. This was the Golden Egg of odd objects.
On Saturday, after all my chores were halfway done, I went to Hobby Lobby and managed to walk out with less than a $20 purchase. I had the car washed, and then came home to get ready for a baby shower.
The shower was for a sweet young woman from Bible study. Nancy and I went to the shower together and it was one of the nicest showers I've attended. The hostesses were so gracious and the food was delicious. I have a sneaky suspicion that at least one of the hostesses is Southern, as evidenced by the deviled eggs, pretty tablecloth and dishes.
Not that non-Southerners don't own pretty tablecloths and dishes and know how to make deviled eggs. What are the odds of combining all three?
The hostesses also displayed the cutest little decoration that I am totally going to steal if I ever host a baby shower again. (It doesn't look like any of my friends will be having a baby at our age, so I'll wait until one of them has a grandchild in about 15 years.)
Along the wall, the hostesses had created a little clothesline with coordinating onesies. It was so sweet and simple and who would guess that a decoration could also double as a gift for the mom-to-be?! Genius!
It's here that I'll skip right to Sunday, because I pretty much came home after the shower and went to bed. Nancy kept me out until the late, late hour of 8:00 PM.
Daughter and I stayed home from church because we both had a cough and sore throat. (Not the same cough or throat, for you grammar snobs out there. Wink.)
Hers was worse than mine, so I managed to spend the day in yoga pants refilling drink glasses and coaxing down Children's Motrin. Hubs went to the store for us and got all of the ingredients for Paula's chicken noodle soup. (It was yummy!)
Today I feel a bit better, but Daughter is still not 100%. Drat, those allergies. So, it looks like she'll miss out on all the Columbus Day events which we really don't have, but still.
However, if Columbus had brought over that Olive Garden, I could be enjoying an endless pasta bowl. Instead, I'm looking out my window at grasslands and cows with that grade school rhyme about the ocean blue in my head.
Rub it in.
Thursday, October 07, 2010
More Stuff I Don't Understand: Edition Who Knows?
1. If you are posting a puppy in need of a home on PetFinder, why would you name him "Killer?"
I'm no expert, but I am guessing a name like Snuggles or Champ would be better at attracting potential furever homes.
But, that's just me.
2. Why are all the late nite commercials about weight loss, vacuum cleaners, and acne products? Shouldn't they be advertising insomnia treatments?
3. Whenever someone gets voted off Dancing With The Stars or some other talent reality show, why do they perform one more time on the morning talk shows? If we wanted to keep watching them, they would not have been voted off in the first place.
And, yes, I realize sometimes the judges vote them off. Just go with me here.
4. Why does the person who won't obey the car line rules always have to be in the front of the line?
5. Why does the lady in the Chico's catalog always look put together, but when I put on the very same outfit, I look like I'm going to a costume party?
6. Why is it that when I tell Hubs that Old Navy clothes don't fit me, he asks if I tried on the right size? It's the cut, folks.
7. Why is it that for a man's clothes to fit, he only needs to choose the right waist size, inseam and whether or not they are a medium or large?
For a woman's clothes to fit, she needs to decide on boot cut, straight leg, tapered leg, fitted, regular, if it's sized small or big, what brand, what store, and if Jupiter is aligned with Venus.
And then it still looks different when we get home.
If you'll excuse me, I have to look at my new Chico's catalog...
I'm no expert, but I am guessing a name like Snuggles or Champ would be better at attracting potential furever homes.
But, that's just me.
2. Why are all the late nite commercials about weight loss, vacuum cleaners, and acne products? Shouldn't they be advertising insomnia treatments?
3. Whenever someone gets voted off Dancing With The Stars or some other talent reality show, why do they perform one more time on the morning talk shows? If we wanted to keep watching them, they would not have been voted off in the first place.
And, yes, I realize sometimes the judges vote them off. Just go with me here.
4. Why does the person who won't obey the car line rules always have to be in the front of the line?
5. Why does the lady in the Chico's catalog always look put together, but when I put on the very same outfit, I look like I'm going to a costume party?
6. Why is it that when I tell Hubs that Old Navy clothes don't fit me, he asks if I tried on the right size? It's the cut, folks.
7. Why is it that for a man's clothes to fit, he only needs to choose the right waist size, inseam and whether or not they are a medium or large?
For a woman's clothes to fit, she needs to decide on boot cut, straight leg, tapered leg, fitted, regular, if it's sized small or big, what brand, what store, and if Jupiter is aligned with Venus.
And then it still looks different when we get home.
If you'll excuse me, I have to look at my new Chico's catalog...
Monday, October 04, 2010
We could use the air mattress for a flotation device.
Is it just me or is Blogger all wonky this morning?
Now that I have that out of the way, I'll tell you about our weekend. This is the kind of post you can read during a commercial break, because, our weekend? Boring.
I should say, MY weekend. Boring.
Friday I took Daughter to horseback riding. She always loves it and I always love sitting on the bleachers talking to her instructor. After that, we went to Dairy Queen (her new fav) where she got her usual order of a burger and blizzard and I was good and got nothing.
On Saturday (I know what you're thinking, if this is going to go day-by-day, I may have to just watch the commercials) Hubs and Daughter went Geocaching. I've decided that geocaching is what Barbie does with the stuff that didn't sell at her garage sale.
After finding Barbie's old furniture from her Dream House, Hubs and Daughter went to Wally World for camping supplies. They put the s'mores ingredients and hot dogs away and set up the tent.
I don't camp. If there were a camper with a cot or a bed, I'd be all for it. However, the tent thing is a little too Les Stroud for me.
I am aware that Les would not have a tent. He'd make do with branches and leaves and such but this is the high plains, and we don't have branches and leaves and such. Besides, he always uses what's available to him. In this case, that's a tent.
But I digress.
I joined them for dinner in the tent, then I came inside and watched poor quality television.
I told Hubs that I think they should get a camper one day, the kind you pull behind the car. He said that wasn't camping. Then I asked him where you hang out during the day if you camp more than one night. (I mean, there's only so many s'mores you can make, right?) He told me you do whatever it is you do that's around the campsite, like fishing or swimming in a lake.
He never got to the part about when I would be in the camper lounging on a cot or turning on air conditioning, so I'm still lost on the whole camping thing.
Yesterday morning he and Daughter got up for church. I was under the weather and stayed home. You'd think they would be under the weather since they were the ones sleeping outside, but no. It was me. That fluffy Pottery Barn comforter really knocked me off my feet.
At some point yesterday afternoon I bought some groceries. After nearly $200, we have barely enough for 2 meals, so I'll be back later this week.
That was pretty much the highlight of my weekend.
However, it runs a close second to Hubs cooking dinner on Saturday night. Hot dogs and baked beans always taste better when someone else cooks them.
Even if I wasn't eating them at a cheaply made table/sofa/cot in a camper.
P.S. The s'mores were made in the oven. As I said, this is the high plains. Campfires, dry grass, and high winds? Almost as scary as sleeping in a tent.
Now that I have that out of the way, I'll tell you about our weekend. This is the kind of post you can read during a commercial break, because, our weekend? Boring.
I should say, MY weekend. Boring.
Friday I took Daughter to horseback riding. She always loves it and I always love sitting on the bleachers talking to her instructor. After that, we went to Dairy Queen (her new fav) where she got her usual order of a burger and blizzard and I was good and got nothing.
On Saturday (I know what you're thinking, if this is going to go day-by-day, I may have to just watch the commercials) Hubs and Daughter went Geocaching. I've decided that geocaching is what Barbie does with the stuff that didn't sell at her garage sale.
After finding Barbie's old furniture from her Dream House, Hubs and Daughter went to Wally World for camping supplies. They put the s'mores ingredients and hot dogs away and set up the tent.
I don't camp. If there were a camper with a cot or a bed, I'd be all for it. However, the tent thing is a little too Les Stroud for me.
I am aware that Les would not have a tent. He'd make do with branches and leaves and such but this is the high plains, and we don't have branches and leaves and such. Besides, he always uses what's available to him. In this case, that's a tent.
But I digress.
I joined them for dinner in the tent, then I came inside and watched poor quality television.
I told Hubs that I think they should get a camper one day, the kind you pull behind the car. He said that wasn't camping. Then I asked him where you hang out during the day if you camp more than one night. (I mean, there's only so many s'mores you can make, right?) He told me you do whatever it is you do that's around the campsite, like fishing or swimming in a lake.
He never got to the part about when I would be in the camper lounging on a cot or turning on air conditioning, so I'm still lost on the whole camping thing.
Yesterday morning he and Daughter got up for church. I was under the weather and stayed home. You'd think they would be under the weather since they were the ones sleeping outside, but no. It was me. That fluffy Pottery Barn comforter really knocked me off my feet.
At some point yesterday afternoon I bought some groceries. After nearly $200, we have barely enough for 2 meals, so I'll be back later this week.
That was pretty much the highlight of my weekend.
However, it runs a close second to Hubs cooking dinner on Saturday night. Hot dogs and baked beans always taste better when someone else cooks them.
Even if I wasn't eating them at a cheaply made table/sofa/cot in a camper.
P.S. The s'mores were made in the oven. As I said, this is the high plains. Campfires, dry grass, and high winds? Almost as scary as sleeping in a tent.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Random Dozen: Aliens, Art, and Lattes
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!
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!
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!
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