I copied and pasted this from my brother's blog. I think its really cool. Heartwarming actually (particularly #7). I intend to make my "7 Things" list. I am pretty open though and can't imagine there are 7 things people dont know about me...? My brother's blog is www.tommygestlund.blogspot.com (I dont know how to add people's blogs to my blog and I dont do technical reading)
Monday, December 08, 2008
7 Things
My friend the mechanic asked me to do this, so I thought I would give it a try. The idea, apparently, is to make a list of 7 random things that people may, or may not, know about me.I don't know if there are that many things that the 1 or 2 readers of this blog don't already know about me, but, like I said, I'm going to give it a try.
1.) I am completely color-blind. This effects a lot of things you wouldn't think about. The obvious ones, like putting together outfits, and pointing someone out in a crowd ("That guy in the blue shirt" is always met with a blank stare). However, nighttime driving is always and adventure. If I'm driving with Bibi, it's not unusual to hear me interrupt her mid-sentence with, "Red or yellow?" This is always in reference to the flashing stoplight that we are approaching. Another one, one that I don't even think Bibi knows about is our toothbrushes. Mine is a blue one, and Bibi's is pink. I can't tell which one is which without comparing them, which has led to more than a couple close calls.
2.) My appreciation of Frank Sinatra began Thanksgiving my Junior or Senior year in high school. I was watching a PBS special with my Uncle Steve at my Aunt Anne's annual Chilli dinner. It was about Sinatra's Duets CD, which was the first one I ever bought. I know have something like 20 CDs, and three albums. He still swings.
3.) I am anal-retentive beyond any comprehension by the casual observer. My CD's are still (mostly) alphabetized by genre (although since I don't really listen to CD's anymore I don't know how accurate they REALLY are), my records are alphabetized, my DVD's are alphabetized with a separate section for the tv shows, and my clothes are organized in such a way that I put all clothes that have been recently washed behind the clothes that havnen't been worn, so that I don't wear things more frequently. (It doesn't always work out that way, as I have one or two shirts that I almost never wear, and one or two that I love and therefore wear more often.) However, as I was telling Bibi a few days ago, my system on the iPod has gotten much more relaxed. For about two years now it has been my mission to "shuffle" manually all of the songs that I have rated 4 or 5 stars. (That's roughly 4, 596 songs.) Up until last May, I was on track to doing that. (Which meant a ridiculous amount of work and discipline in listening to the iPod; I couldn't necessarily listen to what song came up, if I had listened to a song on the same album, or by the same artist within the previous 9 songs. I know. Anal, no?) Anyway, last May Bibi's computer, the one with iTunes on it, broke down. Things kept on track for a while, but then the lack of "updates" made it so that the iPod kept stalling out on me. I have now been listening to any old artist of song that I want to for about two weeks and it's surprisingly freeing. (Mainly Bob Dylan and the Who, although Townes Van Zant and Jeffrey Foucault were in the mix for a couple of days last week.)So, I'm getting better.
4. Bibi and I LOVE 7th Heaven. It's on from 5-7 Monday through Friday, and we make it a special point to watch at least one of those episodes. We really get into it. Cheesy as all heck, but darn it, that's good television. (I even tried whisper-talking like they do on the show, but I'm just too loud.)
5.) I am cutting down on coffee. At one time, a couple of years ago, I was up to two pots a day. About a month ago, I realized that the 12 cups a day might NOT be the most healthy choice I could make. So, I have cut down one cup every week, and I am now to around three cups a day. And, I am drinking lots of water while at work, which is awesome. (Coffee intake CAN be related to cold sores, and the one I have right now didn't even fully develop, which is awesome.)
6.) When Tim Russert died last May I took it really hard. Bibi and I watch Meet the Press and This Weekend with George Stephanopolous every weekend, and so Tim Russert dying really was like losing a friend. It was horribly cheesy, but I told Bibi sometime that weekend (he died on a Friday) that we had invited him into our home every week for almost two years, and it was going to be a strange and difficult process. What can I say, we like our political discussions.
7.) My marble project. Three weeks ago I began Grace's marble jar. I counted out the number of Saturdays between then and when Gracie turns 18, (864 of 'em) and placed that many glass stones in a big jar. Each Saturday before I go to bed, I take on out, recognizing that I will never get that Saturday back. It's been a really special reminder that the time I have with my little girl is finite, and that I need to make the best of what I have with her. Yesterday, I told Bibi that I wanted to change the project a little. I am going to be keeping all of those stones, and I'm going to give them to Grace on her 18th birthday, as a present; a reminder of all of those days that we had together for when she goes to college. All right, that's all. I guess I'm supposed to tag some people, but I honestly don't know who all reads this, or if they have a blog or not. So...uh, if you are reading this, and if you have a blog, leave me a comment saying so, and then go do this too. (It was surprisingly hard and fun.)All right, Happy Monday everyone!Tommy
Monday, December 8, 2008
Friday, December 5, 2008
Love is...(out of the mouth's of babes)
'When my grandmother got arthritis, she couldn't bend over and paint her toenails anymore. So my grandfather does it for her all the time, even when his hands got arthritis too. That's love..' Rebecca- age 8
'When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different. You just know that your name is safe in their mouth.'
Billy - age 4
'Love is when a girl puts on perfume and a boy puts on shaving cologne and they go out and smell each other.'
Karl - age 5
'Love is when you go out to eat and give somebody most of your French fries without making them give you any of theirs.'
Chrissy - age 6
'Love is what makes you smile when you're tired..'
Terri - age 4
'Love is when my mommy makes coffee for my daddy and she takes a sip before giving it to him, to make sure the taste is OK.'
Danny - age 7
'Love is when you kiss all the time. Then when you get tired of kissing, you still want to be together and you talk more. My Mommy and Daddy are like that.. They look gross when they kiss'
Emily - age 8
'Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.'
Bobby - age 7 (Wow!)
'If you want to learn to love better, you should start with a friend who you hate,'
Nikka - age 6 (we need a few million more Nikka's on this planet)
'Love is when you tell a guy you like his shirt, then he wears it everyday.'
Noelle - age 7
'Love is like a little old woman and a little old man who are still friends even after they know each other so well.'
Tommy - age 6
'During my piano recital, I was on a stage and I was scared. I looked at all the people watching me and saw my daddy waving and smiling. He was the only one doing that. I wasn't scared anymore.'
Cindy - age 8
'My mommy loves me more than anybody You don't see anyone else kissing me to sleep at night..'
Clare - age 6
'Love is when Mommy gives Daddy the biggest piece of chicken.'
Elaine-age 5
'Love is when Mommy sees Daddy smelly and sweaty and still says he is handsomer than Robert Redford.'
Chris - age 7
'Love is when your puppy licks your face even after you left him alone all day.'
Mary Ann - age 4
'I know my older sister loves me because she gives me all her old clothes and has to go out and buy new ones.'
Lauren - age 4
'When you love somebody, your eyelashes go up and down and little stars come out of you.' (what an image)
Karen - age 7
'Love is when Mommy sees Daddy on the toilet and she doesn't think it's gross.'
Mark - age 6
'You really shouldn't say 'I love you' unless you mean it. But if you mean it, you should say it a lot. People forget.'
Jessica - age 8
And the final one:
The winner was a four year old child whose next door neighbor was an elderly gentleman who had recently lost his wife. Upon seeing the man cry, the little boy went into the old gentleman's yard, climbed onto his lap, and just sat there. When his Mother asked what he had said to the neighbor, the little boy said, 'Nothing, I just helped him cry'
'When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different. You just know that your name is safe in their mouth.'
Billy - age 4
'Love is when a girl puts on perfume and a boy puts on shaving cologne and they go out and smell each other.'
Karl - age 5
'Love is when you go out to eat and give somebody most of your French fries without making them give you any of theirs.'
Chrissy - age 6
'Love is what makes you smile when you're tired..'
Terri - age 4
'Love is when my mommy makes coffee for my daddy and she takes a sip before giving it to him, to make sure the taste is OK.'
Danny - age 7
'Love is when you kiss all the time. Then when you get tired of kissing, you still want to be together and you talk more. My Mommy and Daddy are like that.. They look gross when they kiss'
Emily - age 8
'Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.'
Bobby - age 7 (Wow!)
'If you want to learn to love better, you should start with a friend who you hate,'
Nikka - age 6 (we need a few million more Nikka's on this planet)
'Love is when you tell a guy you like his shirt, then he wears it everyday.'
Noelle - age 7
'Love is like a little old woman and a little old man who are still friends even after they know each other so well.'
Tommy - age 6
'During my piano recital, I was on a stage and I was scared. I looked at all the people watching me and saw my daddy waving and smiling. He was the only one doing that. I wasn't scared anymore.'
Cindy - age 8
'My mommy loves me more than anybody You don't see anyone else kissing me to sleep at night..'
Clare - age 6
'Love is when Mommy gives Daddy the biggest piece of chicken.'
Elaine-age 5
'Love is when Mommy sees Daddy smelly and sweaty and still says he is handsomer than Robert Redford.'
Chris - age 7
'Love is when your puppy licks your face even after you left him alone all day.'
Mary Ann - age 4
'I know my older sister loves me because she gives me all her old clothes and has to go out and buy new ones.'
Lauren - age 4
'When you love somebody, your eyelashes go up and down and little stars come out of you.' (what an image)
Karen - age 7
'Love is when Mommy sees Daddy on the toilet and she doesn't think it's gross.'
Mark - age 6
'You really shouldn't say 'I love you' unless you mean it. But if you mean it, you should say it a lot. People forget.'
Jessica - age 8
And the final one:
The winner was a four year old child whose next door neighbor was an elderly gentleman who had recently lost his wife. Upon seeing the man cry, the little boy went into the old gentleman's yard, climbed onto his lap, and just sat there. When his Mother asked what he had said to the neighbor, the little boy said, 'Nothing, I just helped him cry'
Monday, December 1, 2008
Random acts of kindness/Christmas season/PTO day
One morning last week, another paralegal and I were the only ones there at 6:30am. She and I began talking about something, after the conversation I complimented her nailpolish. She said it was called "Private Wine Cellar". I loved it and gushed about it. Much different and less goth than my typical Stella-shiny-black nailpolish. The next morning, at 6:30, I got to my desk, was flipping on my lamp, my computer, my radio, and there in front of me, with a red bow, was a bottle of "Private Wine Cellar". This little act of kindness made me smile for the rest of the day. I painted my nails immediately:)
The past week has been a whirlwind. Some of my best friends; The Littles aka My Family Circus, came in town last Sunday and stayed at my house for the week. Instead of paying for a hotel. Lauren just moved out, so her room was vacant, and it seemed to work out perfectly. I did like the company. Mike and Keisha, and their petting zoo of children; Olivia age 11, Madison age 3 (4 in January) and Aidan age 18 months. What a week! I was sad to see them go. Although, I'm quite sure the dogs were not. 3 adults, 3 children and 3 dogs in my tiny 900- square foot house! Last Sunday night we went to Briarcliff Village for a holiday celebration. It was so neat; there were choirs and bands and Santa and Mrs. Claus for pictures with the kids. We hung out for awhile, and ate dinner at The Cafe at Briarcliff.
We did our own thing for the most part, yet it was always nice to know I was either coming home to someone, or someone (The Family Circus) was coming home to me.
I took a PTO day today, because I had to use it or lose it. Gosh. Poor me. A day off. Actually, I'm quite bored. I've cleaned, put up my Christmas tree and decroations, baked, played with the dogs, emailed people, and now, am blogging. I definitely couldn't do this everyday! I am looking forward to going back to work!
I LOVE this season. Love it. Saturday morning when we (The Family Circus, The Estlund Petting Zoo, and me) woke up, it was snowing! I loved it. And again, yesterday morning it was snowing. It's so beautiful! I took a picture of the dogs outside and sent it to people just because its too funny seeing them during the first snowfall.
I'm going to a girlfriends house for dinner tonight, and taking the chocolate chip cookies I baked earlier today.
I'm on the 4th book of the Twilight series. I'm reading really slowly because I dont want the series to end. Everything that I'd hoped would happen, has happened, but it's almost like I wasn't quite ready yet for everything to happen...?!?! I've read over 2000 pages of Twilight and I still needed more time! Do I have commitment issues?
One of my good friends just moved out of her marriage/house/situation and under my recommendation, looked at my old apartment complex. She called me Friday night, she had moved in that day! So Saturday afternoon I went over to see her and her daughter, and ended up visiting for several hours. She (my friend) is one of the, if not THE, biggest animal rescuer in the KC Metro area. Its always nice to see a happy ending for someone who gives so much of herself to animals. Or, anything for that matter. I am so excited for her. It must be bittersweet, leaving the only life you have known for 20 years however she is starting out, brand new, whatever she wants to make of her life.
This week is going to be crazy. I joined/am in the process of pledging a service/social sorority. I've been to 3 events so far. I love the girls. (I guess at this age, we're women huh?) They're all so wonderful. I believe there are 13 or 14 in the group. It's a very very tightly-knit group and I'm just so happy they want me to be a part of it. This Thursday we're having our first "pledge training" and its at my house. The Crazy Dog House. Then, next Wednesday we have a dinner for the sisters, and the following Saturday we have a dance with Marines for Toys for Tots - to raise money and toys. What a great organization! They've adopted charities from Toys for Tots, to Coats for Kids, and we are adopting a classroom of underpriviledged kids for Christmas. The month of March, 2009, they've adopted SNKC:)
Still haven't decided if I am going to get a roommate or a second job, but something has to happen sooner than later. I'm taking my cable box and wireless modem to Time Warner this afternoon. I am cutting things out that I dont need! I'm thinking about Starbucks or Barnes & Noble. Starbucks, at least, I couldn't spend any money while working there. Barnes & Noble...not so much.
My Aunt is coming in town this weekend; a bunch of us girls are going to Zona Rosa for lunch and to walk around on Saturday afternoon. I'm looking forward to it. I love stuff like that, especially around the holidays.
Now that you can eat off my floors, see your reflection in my walls, and count the vacuum lines in my carpet, I think I may scrub my baseboards....
Happy December!!!
The past week has been a whirlwind. Some of my best friends; The Littles aka My Family Circus, came in town last Sunday and stayed at my house for the week. Instead of paying for a hotel. Lauren just moved out, so her room was vacant, and it seemed to work out perfectly. I did like the company. Mike and Keisha, and their petting zoo of children; Olivia age 11, Madison age 3 (4 in January) and Aidan age 18 months. What a week! I was sad to see them go. Although, I'm quite sure the dogs were not. 3 adults, 3 children and 3 dogs in my tiny 900- square foot house! Last Sunday night we went to Briarcliff Village for a holiday celebration. It was so neat; there were choirs and bands and Santa and Mrs. Claus for pictures with the kids. We hung out for awhile, and ate dinner at The Cafe at Briarcliff.
We did our own thing for the most part, yet it was always nice to know I was either coming home to someone, or someone (The Family Circus) was coming home to me.
I took a PTO day today, because I had to use it or lose it. Gosh. Poor me. A day off. Actually, I'm quite bored. I've cleaned, put up my Christmas tree and decroations, baked, played with the dogs, emailed people, and now, am blogging. I definitely couldn't do this everyday! I am looking forward to going back to work!
I LOVE this season. Love it. Saturday morning when we (The Family Circus, The Estlund Petting Zoo, and me) woke up, it was snowing! I loved it. And again, yesterday morning it was snowing. It's so beautiful! I took a picture of the dogs outside and sent it to people just because its too funny seeing them during the first snowfall.
I'm going to a girlfriends house for dinner tonight, and taking the chocolate chip cookies I baked earlier today.
I'm on the 4th book of the Twilight series. I'm reading really slowly because I dont want the series to end. Everything that I'd hoped would happen, has happened, but it's almost like I wasn't quite ready yet for everything to happen...?!?! I've read over 2000 pages of Twilight and I still needed more time! Do I have commitment issues?
One of my good friends just moved out of her marriage/house/situation and under my recommendation, looked at my old apartment complex. She called me Friday night, she had moved in that day! So Saturday afternoon I went over to see her and her daughter, and ended up visiting for several hours. She (my friend) is one of the, if not THE, biggest animal rescuer in the KC Metro area. Its always nice to see a happy ending for someone who gives so much of herself to animals. Or, anything for that matter. I am so excited for her. It must be bittersweet, leaving the only life you have known for 20 years however she is starting out, brand new, whatever she wants to make of her life.
This week is going to be crazy. I joined/am in the process of pledging a service/social sorority. I've been to 3 events so far. I love the girls. (I guess at this age, we're women huh?) They're all so wonderful. I believe there are 13 or 14 in the group. It's a very very tightly-knit group and I'm just so happy they want me to be a part of it. This Thursday we're having our first "pledge training" and its at my house. The Crazy Dog House. Then, next Wednesday we have a dinner for the sisters, and the following Saturday we have a dance with Marines for Toys for Tots - to raise money and toys. What a great organization! They've adopted charities from Toys for Tots, to Coats for Kids, and we are adopting a classroom of underpriviledged kids for Christmas. The month of March, 2009, they've adopted SNKC:)
Still haven't decided if I am going to get a roommate or a second job, but something has to happen sooner than later. I'm taking my cable box and wireless modem to Time Warner this afternoon. I am cutting things out that I dont need! I'm thinking about Starbucks or Barnes & Noble. Starbucks, at least, I couldn't spend any money while working there. Barnes & Noble...not so much.
My Aunt is coming in town this weekend; a bunch of us girls are going to Zona Rosa for lunch and to walk around on Saturday afternoon. I'm looking forward to it. I love stuff like that, especially around the holidays.
Now that you can eat off my floors, see your reflection in my walls, and count the vacuum lines in my carpet, I think I may scrub my baseboards....
Happy December!!!
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Matt Nathanson and Twilight Soundtrack
My iPod is about to burnt out. I've been listening to Matt Nathanson "Some Mad Hope" and Twilight Soundtrack nonstop for a week now.
Seriously ya'll, I would recommend giving either a listen.
Matt Nathanson sounds like Dave Matthews, Jack Johnson, John Meyer and David Gray wrote an album. The lyrics are really meaningful. He has a song "Come on Get Higher" and another, "Wedding Dress". Beautiful music. Two-thumbs up; I highly recommend.
Twilight soundtrack consists of: Collective Soul, Linkin Park, Paramore, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Muse and Mutemath. Three thumbs up; I highly recommend
Seriously ya'll, I would recommend giving either a listen.
Matt Nathanson sounds like Dave Matthews, Jack Johnson, John Meyer and David Gray wrote an album. The lyrics are really meaningful. He has a song "Come on Get Higher" and another, "Wedding Dress". Beautiful music. Two-thumbs up; I highly recommend.
Twilight soundtrack consists of: Collective Soul, Linkin Park, Paramore, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Muse and Mutemath. Three thumbs up; I highly recommend
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Pet Connection, which aids hundreds of homeless animals in KC, was robbed.
To those that care about the homeless pets in Kansas City:
We have had a small tragedy at The Pet Connection. Yesterday, we were the victim of a crime that will have grave costs to our pets or for those that we are not able to rescue. Our trailer and all the supplies for building 8 new dog and cat rooms was stolen. I am so sad, disappointed, and everyone at our facility is feeling a little defeated. Jason Huff and myself got most of the supplies donated and spent 2 days loading it all for TPC so that the cost would be minimal. Replacement value of our loss: $4000. We were going to start construction over Thanksgiving. Jason and I cancelled holiday plans with our families so that we could build these much needed life savers. Our Christmas gift to the homeless pets was an important one. We estimate that these rooms will help us successfully house and rescue 15-40 additional pets each month.
Almost 70 percent of the rescued dogs at our facility were scheduled to be euthanized in area shelters simply because of space constraints.
If anyone can send additional funding for this project, we would really appreciate. If everyone we have helped this month, would send $5......that would be about $3000. If everyone on this list sent $5, that would be $35,000. We need help. Please send your pledge today.
I know that together, we can make this horrible turn of events seem small. If we do not receive a rally from our friends, we will not be able to complete the project until much later. I'm turning away about a hundred animals a month, please help me. We need these resources to be available as soon as possible. We needed them yesterday. Please cross post to anyone that may be able to assist.
Jason Huff
Director of OperationsThe Pet Connection
jason@thepetconnection.net
www.thepetconnection.net
913-671-PETS
5918 Broadmoor
Mission KS
66202
OPEN HRS:
Tues - Sunday 9am-8pm
Monday by appt only
Low cost obedience instruction, low cost microchippingLow cost spay/neuter
Adoption
Halfy's Thrift BoutiqueLOCATION:
5732 Johnson Dr.,
Telephone number- 913.236.9330,
Store Hours- M-Sat 10-6,
Closed Sundays.
We have had a small tragedy at The Pet Connection. Yesterday, we were the victim of a crime that will have grave costs to our pets or for those that we are not able to rescue. Our trailer and all the supplies for building 8 new dog and cat rooms was stolen. I am so sad, disappointed, and everyone at our facility is feeling a little defeated. Jason Huff and myself got most of the supplies donated and spent 2 days loading it all for TPC so that the cost would be minimal. Replacement value of our loss: $4000. We were going to start construction over Thanksgiving. Jason and I cancelled holiday plans with our families so that we could build these much needed life savers. Our Christmas gift to the homeless pets was an important one. We estimate that these rooms will help us successfully house and rescue 15-40 additional pets each month.
Almost 70 percent of the rescued dogs at our facility were scheduled to be euthanized in area shelters simply because of space constraints.
If anyone can send additional funding for this project, we would really appreciate. If everyone we have helped this month, would send $5......that would be about $3000. If everyone on this list sent $5, that would be $35,000. We need help. Please send your pledge today.
I know that together, we can make this horrible turn of events seem small. If we do not receive a rally from our friends, we will not be able to complete the project until much later. I'm turning away about a hundred animals a month, please help me. We need these resources to be available as soon as possible. We needed them yesterday. Please cross post to anyone that may be able to assist.
Jason Huff
Director of OperationsThe Pet Connection
jason@thepetconnection.net
www.thepetconnection.net
913-671-PETS
5918 Broadmoor
Mission KS
66202
OPEN HRS:
Tues - Sunday 9am-8pm
Monday by appt only
Low cost obedience instruction, low cost microchippingLow cost spay/neuter
Adoption
Halfy's Thrift BoutiqueLOCATION:
5732 Johnson Dr.,
Telephone number- 913.236.9330,
Store Hours- M-Sat 10-6,
Closed Sundays.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Just a really good day
Today was a long day. A good, fulfilling and productive day; yet a very long and hard day. I finally got home at 7:30pm (left home at 6am this morning). I fed and watered the dogs, gave them Greenies to chew on, made some hot tea, ran a hot bath, and began to relax. I was soaking in the Sweet Pea bubble bath, listening to Norah Jones on my iPod, relaxing....and then....
PLOP.
WTF??
Stella was sitting, staring at me, next to the tub. She had dropped her tennis ball. In the tub.
CDL. CDL. CDL. (If you are close to me, you know what this means).
My friend Steve, who works at the firm and rides the bus with me, is my little leprechaun. That's what I call him - Leprechaun. And, he calls me Pixie. For, obvious reasons. It was Steve's birthday today. I love birthdays (see previous blog regarding birthdays and how special they are in my family) and I love helping to make them special to other people. Cause, that's what it's all about isn't it? Anyway, the day started off with a bus ride with the birthday boy. Work was great, hectic, busy, productive, competitive...good day. I rode home earlier than usual - had several errands to run before a meeting at 6pm. I took the 4:15 bus. I sat next to the most adorable Italian gentleman. So adorable! He calls me Sarafina. He talks with his hands. He is in love with his wife. He loves life. He's owned a barber shop downtown for 38 years. Just a lovely man. He had me laughing the whole ride home. Stopped at home, let the dogs out, then headed to the Parkville Animal Shelter. One of their ongoing fundraisers is garbage bags. We all need garbage bags, right? Just so happens I drive 15 minutes and spend a lot more money on mine. Cindy and Becky were there. They had big hugs for me. I let it be known the minute I walked in that I would not be taking any more to add to my petting zoo so dont even try it. They laughed. Becky had pictures of Misha on her phone from years ago. Becky house-sat/dog sat for me when I went to a cheer competition in Knoxville. That was the weekend in August of 2006 that my air conditioning broke. Becky called me at the coach's dinner to tell me it was 96 degrees in my house and that she would be taking Tyler and Misha back to her house for the remainder of the weekend. God Bless Her. She already had 8 dogs at her house.
Parkville had 2 mastiffs dumped earlier this week. The pieces of shit who owned the mastiffs (female apprx. 100 lbs, male apprx. 165 lbs) used them for breeding then decided they were too expensive to feed. So, they dumped them at the Parkville Shelter. Makes one wonder what happened to the litter. Mastiffs aren't for inexperienced dog owners. Heck, I was intimidated by the male - and I dont get intimidated by Pitbulls! But he was WAY bigger than me.
I left the shelter, and went up to Zona Rosa where I had a meeting with NAWS. I'm on the committee preparing for a big fundraiser in April.
Then I went to Sarah's house to pick up Twilight (book #1 in the series). I've already read Twilight and New Moon but I'm going to the Twilight the movie Saturday with the girls and wanted to read it one more time. I dont want to buy it because I'm asking for the hardbound series for Christmas so...I borrowed it from Sarah.
Then I came home. Then I took a bath. Then Stella dropped her tennis ball in my bath water while looking at me pathetically like, "throw the ball. damnit"
I'm getting so excited for the holidays. So excited. I love this weather. Crisp, cool mornings. Walking outside sniffling as the cool air wakes ones senses.
I'm trying to judge less these days. It's really difficult. There are people in my life who are very selfish. There are people in my life who only care about themselves. I'm not saying people need to be a crazy animal/domestic violence/homeless shelter/environmentalist that is not what I am saying at all. But, what's the point in living if you can't experience helping make other people happy? What is the point in living if you only care about yourself and your immediate needs? I just dont get it. But, I am really trying not to judge. I'm not walking in anyone else's shoes (And I thank God for that) so I dont know what its like to be insecure, or not have any faith, or not have any passion or have been around people with different morals their whole life. It's just really difficult. But I am trying.
Keisha and Mike come in town Sunday with their litter of children. Or as I call them, the Family Circus. I haven't seen them since January 8th. It's been a long time. Very much overdue. We're all going to the Briarcliff Village Holiday Festival Sunday evening. I'm very much looking forward to it.
I think it's about time I re-read when Edward and Bella fell in love. One more time.
PLOP.
WTF??
Stella was sitting, staring at me, next to the tub. She had dropped her tennis ball. In the tub.
CDL. CDL. CDL. (If you are close to me, you know what this means).
My friend Steve, who works at the firm and rides the bus with me, is my little leprechaun. That's what I call him - Leprechaun. And, he calls me Pixie. For, obvious reasons. It was Steve's birthday today. I love birthdays (see previous blog regarding birthdays and how special they are in my family) and I love helping to make them special to other people. Cause, that's what it's all about isn't it? Anyway, the day started off with a bus ride with the birthday boy. Work was great, hectic, busy, productive, competitive...good day. I rode home earlier than usual - had several errands to run before a meeting at 6pm. I took the 4:15 bus. I sat next to the most adorable Italian gentleman. So adorable! He calls me Sarafina. He talks with his hands. He is in love with his wife. He loves life. He's owned a barber shop downtown for 38 years. Just a lovely man. He had me laughing the whole ride home. Stopped at home, let the dogs out, then headed to the Parkville Animal Shelter. One of their ongoing fundraisers is garbage bags. We all need garbage bags, right? Just so happens I drive 15 minutes and spend a lot more money on mine. Cindy and Becky were there. They had big hugs for me. I let it be known the minute I walked in that I would not be taking any more to add to my petting zoo so dont even try it. They laughed. Becky had pictures of Misha on her phone from years ago. Becky house-sat/dog sat for me when I went to a cheer competition in Knoxville. That was the weekend in August of 2006 that my air conditioning broke. Becky called me at the coach's dinner to tell me it was 96 degrees in my house and that she would be taking Tyler and Misha back to her house for the remainder of the weekend. God Bless Her. She already had 8 dogs at her house.
Parkville had 2 mastiffs dumped earlier this week. The pieces of shit who owned the mastiffs (female apprx. 100 lbs, male apprx. 165 lbs) used them for breeding then decided they were too expensive to feed. So, they dumped them at the Parkville Shelter. Makes one wonder what happened to the litter. Mastiffs aren't for inexperienced dog owners. Heck, I was intimidated by the male - and I dont get intimidated by Pitbulls! But he was WAY bigger than me.
I left the shelter, and went up to Zona Rosa where I had a meeting with NAWS. I'm on the committee preparing for a big fundraiser in April.
Then I went to Sarah's house to pick up Twilight (book #1 in the series). I've already read Twilight and New Moon but I'm going to the Twilight the movie Saturday with the girls and wanted to read it one more time. I dont want to buy it because I'm asking for the hardbound series for Christmas so...I borrowed it from Sarah.
Then I came home. Then I took a bath. Then Stella dropped her tennis ball in my bath water while looking at me pathetically like, "throw the ball. damnit"
I'm getting so excited for the holidays. So excited. I love this weather. Crisp, cool mornings. Walking outside sniffling as the cool air wakes ones senses.
I'm trying to judge less these days. It's really difficult. There are people in my life who are very selfish. There are people in my life who only care about themselves. I'm not saying people need to be a crazy animal/domestic violence/homeless shelter/environmentalist that is not what I am saying at all. But, what's the point in living if you can't experience helping make other people happy? What is the point in living if you only care about yourself and your immediate needs? I just dont get it. But, I am really trying not to judge. I'm not walking in anyone else's shoes (And I thank God for that) so I dont know what its like to be insecure, or not have any faith, or not have any passion or have been around people with different morals their whole life. It's just really difficult. But I am trying.
Keisha and Mike come in town Sunday with their litter of children. Or as I call them, the Family Circus. I haven't seen them since January 8th. It's been a long time. Very much overdue. We're all going to the Briarcliff Village Holiday Festival Sunday evening. I'm very much looking forward to it.
I think it's about time I re-read when Edward and Bella fell in love. One more time.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Shelter Dog's Perspective...
I rescued a human today.
Her eyes met mine as she walked down the corridor peering apprehensively into the kennels. I felt her need instantly and knew I had to help her. I wagged my tail, not too exuberantly, so she wouldn't be afraid.
As she stopped at my kennel I blocked her view from a little accident I had in the back of my cage. I didn't want her to know that I hadn't been walked today. Sometimes the shelter keepers get too busy and I didn't want her to think poorly of them.
As she read my kennel card I hoped that she wouldn't feel sad about my past. I only have the future to look forward to and want to make a difference in someone's life.
She got down on her knees and made little kissy sounds at me. I shoved my shoulder and side of my head up against the bars to comfort her. Gentle fingertips caressed my neck; she was desperate for companionship.
A tear fell down her cheek and I raised my paw to assure her that all would be well. Soon my kennel door opened and her smile was so bright that I instantly jumped into her arms. I would promise to keep her safe. I would promise to always be by her side. I would promise to do everything I could to see that radiant smile and sparkle in her eyes.
I was so fortunate that she came down my corridor. So many more are out there who haven't walked the corridors. So many more to be saved. At least I could save one.
I rescued a human today.
Her eyes met mine as she walked down the corridor peering apprehensively into the kennels. I felt her need instantly and knew I had to help her. I wagged my tail, not too exuberantly, so she wouldn't be afraid.
As she stopped at my kennel I blocked her view from a little accident I had in the back of my cage. I didn't want her to know that I hadn't been walked today. Sometimes the shelter keepers get too busy and I didn't want her to think poorly of them.
As she read my kennel card I hoped that she wouldn't feel sad about my past. I only have the future to look forward to and want to make a difference in someone's life.
She got down on her knees and made little kissy sounds at me. I shoved my shoulder and side of my head up against the bars to comfort her. Gentle fingertips caressed my neck; she was desperate for companionship.
A tear fell down her cheek and I raised my paw to assure her that all would be well. Soon my kennel door opened and her smile was so bright that I instantly jumped into her arms. I would promise to keep her safe. I would promise to always be by her side. I would promise to do everything I could to see that radiant smile and sparkle in her eyes.
I was so fortunate that she came down my corridor. So many more are out there who haven't walked the corridors. So many more to be saved. At least I could save one.
I rescued a human today.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Sarah's List
My favorite store: White House Black Market
My favorite candle: Tyler candles- Diva
My favorite soap: Ivory
My favorite shirts: Ed Hardy
My other favorite store: Ann Taylor
My other favorite store: Target
My dogs' favorite store: Petsmart
My favorite station: 105.1
My favorite coffee: Millstone
My favorite energy drink: Sugar free Red Bull
My favorite song right now: Johny and June
My other favorite song right now: Disturbia
My favorite time of the day: morning
My favorite jeans: WHBM
My favorite after-work place: Pastry Goddess
My favorite thing at Pastry Goddess: Fruit Tart and Chai Tea
My favorite sister: Amy
My favorite vehicle: Range Rover
My favorite flower: roses or stargazers
My favorite spice: Cinamon
My favorite commercial: Sonic with the couple!
My favorite ice cream: mint chocolate chip
My favorite breakfast: pancakes with strawberries
My favorite movie: Beautiful Girls
My close-second favorite movie: The Usual Suspects
My favorite genre of movie: horror
My favorite season: fall
My favorite actress: Natalie Portman
My favorite singer: David Cook
My favorite genre TV show: REALITY!
My favorite candle: Tyler candles- Diva
My favorite soap: Ivory
My favorite shirts: Ed Hardy
My other favorite store: Ann Taylor
My other favorite store: Target
My dogs' favorite store: Petsmart
My favorite station: 105.1
My favorite coffee: Millstone
My favorite energy drink: Sugar free Red Bull
My favorite song right now: Johny and June
My other favorite song right now: Disturbia
My favorite time of the day: morning
My favorite jeans: WHBM
My favorite after-work place: Pastry Goddess
My favorite thing at Pastry Goddess: Fruit Tart and Chai Tea
My favorite sister: Amy
My favorite vehicle: Range Rover
My favorite flower: roses or stargazers
My favorite spice: Cinamon
My favorite commercial: Sonic with the couple!
My favorite ice cream: mint chocolate chip
My favorite breakfast: pancakes with strawberries
My favorite movie: Beautiful Girls
My close-second favorite movie: The Usual Suspects
My favorite genre of movie: horror
My favorite season: fall
My favorite actress: Natalie Portman
My favorite singer: David Cook
My favorite genre TV show: REALITY!
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Random clarifications...
I don't just love dogs. I have a passion for helping abused, abandoned, neglected and homeless animals. I abhor breeding, animal cruelty and neglect, chained-dogs, puppy-mills and dogfighting. It is frustrating when people say "Ohhh you love dogs!" Yes, I do love dogs but I'm not just the crazy dog lady living at home with 14 shitzus and yorkies. My heart goes out to abused (Stella) chained (Max) and neglected (Tyler) dogs. The extent of the misunderstanding goes to people who are close to me, have tried setting me up with a breeder. A BREEDER. "But Sarah, he LOVES dogs! He breeds labs!" Then he doesn't love dogs!! Guys who have approached me and wanted to take me out tell me they have a beagle which lives in a kennel in their garage, or a Great Dane who lives her life outside, or a min-pin for which they paid $2000. First of all, I wont give you the time of day if you keep your hunting dog in a cage its entire life, secondly I wont look at you if your dogs lives its life outside. I dont care how big it is! Dont get a dog if you dont want one!! And lastly, the more money you spent on your dog while 12 million are euthanized each year just reaffirms the fact that you are an ignorant, uncaring idiot!
Everytime I see Sarah McLaughlin's ASPCA commercial I cry. Sarah's song "In the arms of the angel.." plays while they show abused and dying dogs and cats. Just breaks my heart. I would give my last dime to that organization. Oh wait, I did and have.
Random thought - Barack Obama, in all his insight, vowed to adopt a 'shelter' dog for Sasha and Malia. He said as he is a mutt, he wanted to bring another mutt into the White House.
God I love that man.
Whatever that piece of shit Michael Vick did by glorifying dog-fighting, millions of people will now see the glorification of adopting from a shelter since the leader of the free world made it "cool".
I watched "Whale Wars" on Animal Planet last night. I had been eagerly awaiting it's premiere. Last week when Jessi and I went to "Nights in Rodanthe" there was a preview for this new Animal Planet Documentary; Whale Wars. Its basically about these 35 men and women who risk everything aboard the Sea Shepherd: Steve Irwin. There are 6 Japanese ships in the Antarctic who are bludgeoning and massacring this gorgeous, soon-to-be-extinct breed; the Orca Whale. The Sea Shepherd: Steve Irwin, is out there to try and stop the Japanese and scare them into turning around and going back to Japan. In the Japanese fleet, there are 3 "harpoon ships" 2 "GPS" ships and a processing ship. The 2 "GPS" ships cruise around the "Whale Sanctuary" in this portion of the Antarctic ocean just southeast of Australia. The Whale Sanctuary is preserved and whale hunting is illegal HOWEVER the Japanese have "research" written across their ships and can get away with murdering 935 whales/year in the whale sanctuary in the name of research. The Japanese claim they're researching migratory patterns among the whales. What the fuck do they care? Let the Japanese "research" ships loose in those waters and there will be no whales to have migratory patterns!! So while the 2 "GPS" ships are navigating around the waters, finding the innocent and helpless whales, they call on the 3 "harpoon" ships. The harpoon ships have a missile-like harpoon which, like military missiles, when the person guiding the harpoon finds its target (the whale) they push the button and the harpoon (which looks like an anchor the size of an SUV) at about 35 mph, goes directly into the whale, and since it is still connected it drags the whale back to the killing machine. Er, I mean, Ship. Whales are Mammals. They feel pain. In fact, their central-nervous system is as complex as human beings, which means, the whales feel all the pain that is expected when you have a 3-ton harpoon shooting through you. They're dragged up a long ramp into the ship where the Japanese "researchers" saw its tail off for easier manuevering. Once the animal - still alive - is tortured and miserable, the "processing ship" comes by. On the processing ship, the Japanese "researchers" finish cutting up the whale for edible whale meat.
So, Paul Watson is the captain of the Sea Shepherd. Apparently Paul and Steve Irwin were best friends, and I think Steve's widow Teri, donated money for the ship the Sea Shepherd: Steve Irwin. Paul was the founder of Green Peace, a respectable activist-organization also trying to stop whaling and killing in the Antarctic however they're using very submissive techniques. Paul had a falling-out with the other founders/members of Green Peace when they wanted to remain calm and submissive to the whalers and Paul decided the only way to "fight" whaling was to literally "fight" it. Paul was asked to leave Green Peace and started the organization of 35 crew members in this season's documentary "Whale Wars".
As far as I can tell, the 7-episode series will document the hardships the crew aboard the Sea Shepherd face; sea-sickness, capsized boats, and there is even talk of a hostage-situation. Thank God there are people out there who are taking things into their own hands. I realize this area is International waters however, wouldn't you think the government should be doing something to regulate the laws of the Whale Sanctuary?
Whale meat is served at restaurants in Japan. Whale fat is used in lipsticks and other cosmetics. (See list below of companies who either animal test or use animal bi-products in their cosmetics)
Avon Cosmetics
Jeyes
Beiersdorf
Johnson & Johnson
The Body Shop/L’Oreal+
Lancome
Chanel
Lever Fabergé
Christion Dior
L’Oreal/Nestlé
Clinique
Miners Cosmetics
Colgate Palmolive
PZ Cussons
Coty
Reckitt Benckiser
Ecover*
Revlon
Estée Lauder
SC Johnson
FCUK
Virgin Vie
Garnier
Yardley
Givenchy
Yves Rocher
GlaxoSmithKline
Yves Saint Laurent
Helena Rubenstein
Unilever
Here is a site to utilize for safecosmetics:
http://www.safecosmetics.org/companies/signers.cfm
When I started this blog I had no intention of coming off as the tree-hugging crazy animal activist lady. No I do not intend to board a ship and risk my life anytime soon. Although I must say I feel that jumping fences and stealing pitbulls from abusive owners just doesn't feel like I am doing enough. Then again, its so difficult to feel as if we are making a difference and so easy to feel insignificant and like we are hardly making a dent in the world of animal cruelty.
Everytime I see Sarah McLaughlin's ASPCA commercial I cry. Sarah's song "In the arms of the angel.." plays while they show abused and dying dogs and cats. Just breaks my heart. I would give my last dime to that organization. Oh wait, I did and have.
Random thought - Barack Obama, in all his insight, vowed to adopt a 'shelter' dog for Sasha and Malia. He said as he is a mutt, he wanted to bring another mutt into the White House.
God I love that man.
Whatever that piece of shit Michael Vick did by glorifying dog-fighting, millions of people will now see the glorification of adopting from a shelter since the leader of the free world made it "cool".
I watched "Whale Wars" on Animal Planet last night. I had been eagerly awaiting it's premiere. Last week when Jessi and I went to "Nights in Rodanthe" there was a preview for this new Animal Planet Documentary; Whale Wars. Its basically about these 35 men and women who risk everything aboard the Sea Shepherd: Steve Irwin. There are 6 Japanese ships in the Antarctic who are bludgeoning and massacring this gorgeous, soon-to-be-extinct breed; the Orca Whale. The Sea Shepherd: Steve Irwin, is out there to try and stop the Japanese and scare them into turning around and going back to Japan. In the Japanese fleet, there are 3 "harpoon ships" 2 "GPS" ships and a processing ship. The 2 "GPS" ships cruise around the "Whale Sanctuary" in this portion of the Antarctic ocean just southeast of Australia. The Whale Sanctuary is preserved and whale hunting is illegal HOWEVER the Japanese have "research" written across their ships and can get away with murdering 935 whales/year in the whale sanctuary in the name of research. The Japanese claim they're researching migratory patterns among the whales. What the fuck do they care? Let the Japanese "research" ships loose in those waters and there will be no whales to have migratory patterns!! So while the 2 "GPS" ships are navigating around the waters, finding the innocent and helpless whales, they call on the 3 "harpoon" ships. The harpoon ships have a missile-like harpoon which, like military missiles, when the person guiding the harpoon finds its target (the whale) they push the button and the harpoon (which looks like an anchor the size of an SUV) at about 35 mph, goes directly into the whale, and since it is still connected it drags the whale back to the killing machine. Er, I mean, Ship. Whales are Mammals. They feel pain. In fact, their central-nervous system is as complex as human beings, which means, the whales feel all the pain that is expected when you have a 3-ton harpoon shooting through you. They're dragged up a long ramp into the ship where the Japanese "researchers" saw its tail off for easier manuevering. Once the animal - still alive - is tortured and miserable, the "processing ship" comes by. On the processing ship, the Japanese "researchers" finish cutting up the whale for edible whale meat.
So, Paul Watson is the captain of the Sea Shepherd. Apparently Paul and Steve Irwin were best friends, and I think Steve's widow Teri, donated money for the ship the Sea Shepherd: Steve Irwin. Paul was the founder of Green Peace, a respectable activist-organization also trying to stop whaling and killing in the Antarctic however they're using very submissive techniques. Paul had a falling-out with the other founders/members of Green Peace when they wanted to remain calm and submissive to the whalers and Paul decided the only way to "fight" whaling was to literally "fight" it. Paul was asked to leave Green Peace and started the organization of 35 crew members in this season's documentary "Whale Wars".
As far as I can tell, the 7-episode series will document the hardships the crew aboard the Sea Shepherd face; sea-sickness, capsized boats, and there is even talk of a hostage-situation. Thank God there are people out there who are taking things into their own hands. I realize this area is International waters however, wouldn't you think the government should be doing something to regulate the laws of the Whale Sanctuary?
Whale meat is served at restaurants in Japan. Whale fat is used in lipsticks and other cosmetics. (See list below of companies who either animal test or use animal bi-products in their cosmetics)
Avon Cosmetics
Jeyes
Beiersdorf
Johnson & Johnson
The Body Shop/L’Oreal+
Lancome
Chanel
Lever Fabergé
Christion Dior
L’Oreal/Nestlé
Clinique
Miners Cosmetics
Colgate Palmolive
PZ Cussons
Coty
Reckitt Benckiser
Ecover*
Revlon
Estée Lauder
SC Johnson
FCUK
Virgin Vie
Garnier
Yardley
Givenchy
Yves Rocher
GlaxoSmithKline
Yves Saint Laurent
Helena Rubenstein
Unilever
Here is a site to utilize for safecosmetics:
http://www.safecosmetics.org/companies/signers.cfm
When I started this blog I had no intention of coming off as the tree-hugging crazy animal activist lady. No I do not intend to board a ship and risk my life anytime soon. Although I must say I feel that jumping fences and stealing pitbulls from abusive owners just doesn't feel like I am doing enough. Then again, its so difficult to feel as if we are making a difference and so easy to feel insignificant and like we are hardly making a dent in the world of animal cruelty.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
The Economy and the Holidays...
Times are tough; we are all living differently now than we were 2 years ago...5 years ago...I now get a Starbucks once a week instead of once a day, I have downgraded the dogs' food, they get less treats, off-brand treats, they no longer go to daycare or the vet when they have a bump or red eye, my sister now gets pedicures once every few months instead of once a week, I haven't been out to lunch or dinner in months, I read instead of watching movies, friends come over and I entertain instead of going out for entertaiment, I ride the KC ATA downtown to work to save on gas and parking...and you know what? I'm happy! We're all happy! I mean, I would love to have a Starbucks everyday but, I've lost weight since I haven't! I would love to take the dogs to daycare at least once a week but, they have more energy to give me love when I get home! I would love to not deal with the crazies on the bus, and have my SUV downtown but I haven't gotten a speeding ticket or been in any accidents! Now...I'm not so sure Miss. Amy McGillicuddy can or should be going MONTHS without a pedicure for her feet.... :) j/k.
So this brings me to the holidays. The 'siblings' discussed either foregoing gift-giving this year or exchanging homemade gifts. Clearly the meaning of Christmas is Christ, and His birthday, being with family, being safe, being with loved ones and spending time together..so we haven't forgotten the true meaning of Christmas.
HOWEVER when the emails were going around about this...my SEESTER AMY who, goes BALLS OUT for Christmas, emails me, "so does this mean I need to return your Juicy Perfume?"
Juicy Couture is kind of a running joke between Amy and me...I LOVE Juicy and am probably the only person above the age of 30 who acknowledges the significance of Juicy Couture. Amy has given me a Pink Juicy jumpsuit for Christmas, that I secretly wear around my house 24/7, as well as awesome boutique-type very couture clothes. She is AWESOME when it comes to Christmas shopping. She really enjoys seeing our/my face when I open her gifts and do my spirit fingers. She really gets joy from this.
So, my sweet, generous, dear, sister, had Juicy Couture perfume for me for Christmas. Now, we are exchaning homemade gifts. And, honestly, the more I think about it...I'm more excited for her home made gift. Two years ago she made Tommy and me the "Estlund Compilation" CDs; a set of three CDs that brought back memories from the 80s, 90s, those CDs were awesome. Isn't it amazing that we can say "home made gifts mean the most" and it may not sound heartfelt yet, really is? I know Tommy's most favorite gift ever (that he still has on his bookshelf) was a book Amy made him. I was always jealous of that book. Maybe I will get a book this year... :) ?? I would love a home made book from my sister over Juicy Couture perfume anyday. Someday, when we are rich we will afford each other lavish gifts..but for now, from the heart is best.
So this brings me to the holidays. The 'siblings' discussed either foregoing gift-giving this year or exchanging homemade gifts. Clearly the meaning of Christmas is Christ, and His birthday, being with family, being safe, being with loved ones and spending time together..so we haven't forgotten the true meaning of Christmas.
HOWEVER when the emails were going around about this...my SEESTER AMY who, goes BALLS OUT for Christmas, emails me, "so does this mean I need to return your Juicy Perfume?"
Juicy Couture is kind of a running joke between Amy and me...I LOVE Juicy and am probably the only person above the age of 30 who acknowledges the significance of Juicy Couture. Amy has given me a Pink Juicy jumpsuit for Christmas, that I secretly wear around my house 24/7, as well as awesome boutique-type very couture clothes. She is AWESOME when it comes to Christmas shopping. She really enjoys seeing our/my face when I open her gifts and do my spirit fingers. She really gets joy from this.
So, my sweet, generous, dear, sister, had Juicy Couture perfume for me for Christmas. Now, we are exchaning homemade gifts. And, honestly, the more I think about it...I'm more excited for her home made gift. Two years ago she made Tommy and me the "Estlund Compilation" CDs; a set of three CDs that brought back memories from the 80s, 90s, those CDs were awesome. Isn't it amazing that we can say "home made gifts mean the most" and it may not sound heartfelt yet, really is? I know Tommy's most favorite gift ever (that he still has on his bookshelf) was a book Amy made him. I was always jealous of that book. Maybe I will get a book this year... :) ?? I would love a home made book from my sister over Juicy Couture perfume anyday. Someday, when we are rich we will afford each other lavish gifts..but for now, from the heart is best.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Leaves...twilight...Jessi's...love...election '08...
Fall is my favorite favorite favorite time of year. The leaves are beautiful; all over my driveway, my lawn, my deck, and occasionally my dogs. Sitting in my guest room looking out the window at the different colors, I acknowledge how blessed I am. How can I not? Max and Stella are on the guest bed staring at me pathetically; surely wondering why we aren't yet at the dog park on such a glorious day.
I finished a book this morning; Twilight by Stephanie Meyer. I can't remember the last time I read fiction. I love non-fiction; dogs, law, religion, self-help, feng shui (ok, not really but I wanted to sound sophisticated for a sentence, did it work?). Twilight is over 500 pages. Most know I have the attention span of a gnat which, is why I stick to non-fiction and which, is why a 500+ page book that is about something other than dogs, Barack Obama, Kim Kardashian, or meeting your true love, is so surprising. I COULD NOT PUT THIS BOOK DOWN. I read from 5-11 last night and finished it up this morning. Narrated by 17 year-old Bella, Twilight is the best love story since Romeo and Juliet. Tragically so. Bella moves into small-town Forks, Washington to finish her last 2 years of high school. Her character is entirely lovable. She is relatable and I almost pictured her to be me. She falls head over heels in love with Edward Cullen, one of 5 adopted siblings all of whom are drop-dead gorgeous, brilliant and wealthy. She learns Edward is a vampire and thus begins their tragic love story of impossible hopes and dreams. Edward, so in love with Bella cannot keep away form her although, 'his kind' thirsts for 'her kind'. So many parallels between their love and the real world; man loves woman, man can hurt woman, woman loves man, knows man can hurt her (figuratively yet literally in Twilight) thus begins a saga of Bella wanting to become immortal to be with Edward forever (becoming 'immortal' is gained through a 3-day process of excruciating pain wherein the vampire puts his venom into the mortal and for 3-days the mortal feels incredible pain, at the end of which is a vampire as well.) Some evil vampires (Edward's family is 'good'; using will-power to not eat humans and instead 'hunting' for wolves, bears, etc.) catch Bella's scent and here we have the boy-saves-girl situation which had my heart pounding. Edward saved Bella from exactly what his instincts tell him to do; hunt the human.
Twilight is the first of a 4-book series. I am leaving here shortly to meet the girls for brunch at Zona Rosa and am going to buy book #2.
Jessi gave me Twilight yesterday. I went over to her house to have brunch (Jessi is an insane cook) with Jessi and Chad. I love them. We had such a nice time. They have Yoda, the pug, who although he runs when he sees me I am quite sure he loves me. It is so odd being able to pick up a dog and hold him in my arms! We began talking about books at brunch; I told them of the 'cooking organically for your canine friends' book I was reading as well as the 'meditations for women' book I was reading. Jessi could hardly contain her enthusiasm when telling me about Twilight. So, she loaned it to me to read. After brunch we went to see Nights in Rodanthe. Quite possibly one of the top 5 tear-jerkers I have seen in a decade. Jessi and I were literally sobbing uncontrollably, shoulders-shaking. It was pathetic. Any book-made-to-movie from Nicholas Sparks is 2 thumbs up in my book.
Tommy and I went to coffee yesterday morning (yes I am moving in rewind here) that was very nice. I never ever would have thought, 10 years ago, that Tommy would be one of my best friends and that we would have enough stimulating topics to cover an hour and a half coffee date, but we do! I think my brother should get into politics; not only is he the most well-read and versed person that I know when it comes to the history of politics, the logistics and the complexities of politics, he is a phenomenal teacher who could actually educate people on this subject.
Love...is really in the air lately. I just feel it.
So Tuesday is the big election day. Election '08. I was watching Sunday morning news this morning, and they had some psychologist talking about "election withdrawal" and how, after Wednesday morning people are going to hav withdrawals from all the hot issues, topics, conversations and heated debates resulted out of the 'unknown' outcome of Election '08.
I'm going to buy my book now.
I finished a book this morning; Twilight by Stephanie Meyer. I can't remember the last time I read fiction. I love non-fiction; dogs, law, religion, self-help, feng shui (ok, not really but I wanted to sound sophisticated for a sentence, did it work?). Twilight is over 500 pages. Most know I have the attention span of a gnat which, is why I stick to non-fiction and which, is why a 500+ page book that is about something other than dogs, Barack Obama, Kim Kardashian, or meeting your true love, is so surprising. I COULD NOT PUT THIS BOOK DOWN. I read from 5-11 last night and finished it up this morning. Narrated by 17 year-old Bella, Twilight is the best love story since Romeo and Juliet. Tragically so. Bella moves into small-town Forks, Washington to finish her last 2 years of high school. Her character is entirely lovable. She is relatable and I almost pictured her to be me. She falls head over heels in love with Edward Cullen, one of 5 adopted siblings all of whom are drop-dead gorgeous, brilliant and wealthy. She learns Edward is a vampire and thus begins their tragic love story of impossible hopes and dreams. Edward, so in love with Bella cannot keep away form her although, 'his kind' thirsts for 'her kind'. So many parallels between their love and the real world; man loves woman, man can hurt woman, woman loves man, knows man can hurt her (figuratively yet literally in Twilight) thus begins a saga of Bella wanting to become immortal to be with Edward forever (becoming 'immortal' is gained through a 3-day process of excruciating pain wherein the vampire puts his venom into the mortal and for 3-days the mortal feels incredible pain, at the end of which is a vampire as well.) Some evil vampires (Edward's family is 'good'; using will-power to not eat humans and instead 'hunting' for wolves, bears, etc.) catch Bella's scent and here we have the boy-saves-girl situation which had my heart pounding. Edward saved Bella from exactly what his instincts tell him to do; hunt the human.
Twilight is the first of a 4-book series. I am leaving here shortly to meet the girls for brunch at Zona Rosa and am going to buy book #2.
Jessi gave me Twilight yesterday. I went over to her house to have brunch (Jessi is an insane cook) with Jessi and Chad. I love them. We had such a nice time. They have Yoda, the pug, who although he runs when he sees me I am quite sure he loves me. It is so odd being able to pick up a dog and hold him in my arms! We began talking about books at brunch; I told them of the 'cooking organically for your canine friends' book I was reading as well as the 'meditations for women' book I was reading. Jessi could hardly contain her enthusiasm when telling me about Twilight. So, she loaned it to me to read. After brunch we went to see Nights in Rodanthe. Quite possibly one of the top 5 tear-jerkers I have seen in a decade. Jessi and I were literally sobbing uncontrollably, shoulders-shaking. It was pathetic. Any book-made-to-movie from Nicholas Sparks is 2 thumbs up in my book.
Tommy and I went to coffee yesterday morning (yes I am moving in rewind here) that was very nice. I never ever would have thought, 10 years ago, that Tommy would be one of my best friends and that we would have enough stimulating topics to cover an hour and a half coffee date, but we do! I think my brother should get into politics; not only is he the most well-read and versed person that I know when it comes to the history of politics, the logistics and the complexities of politics, he is a phenomenal teacher who could actually educate people on this subject.
Love...is really in the air lately. I just feel it.
So Tuesday is the big election day. Election '08. I was watching Sunday morning news this morning, and they had some psychologist talking about "election withdrawal" and how, after Wednesday morning people are going to hav withdrawals from all the hot issues, topics, conversations and heated debates resulted out of the 'unknown' outcome of Election '08.
I'm going to buy my book now.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
To every thing there is a season...
"To every thing there is a season,
and a time to every purpose under the Heaven:
a time to be born and a time to die."
Euthanasia is a word derived from the Greek which literally means, "good death". Although the decision is demanded by humanitarian obligation, it is always traumatic for the person who must finally make that decision. It is the ultimate heartbreak we must endure for our dear companion animals.
Euthanasia should be used to put an end to terminal suffering and a negative quality of life. This choice is highly subjective and often difficult to make, but it is part of ultimate responsibility. We are morally obligated to protect and support the lives of our animal friends. Some people abuse this sacred trust by putting their own feelings above the needs of their pets - and they regret it later.
....part of our ultimate responsibility...we are morally obligated to protect and support...putting their own feelings above the needs....regret it later...
I came across a book which offered "practical suggestions to help one grieve the loss of a pet...". I began this post months ago, and occasionally came back to edit it, review it, and save the draft. Interesting how at different times the post seemed therapeutic and at others, forced.
1) Find sympathetic and supportive people, and let your feelings out. Cry. Don't hold back. If you supress feelings, that will only delay the healing and mourning process.
2) Dedicate something in your pet's name and memory.
3) It is never too late to say something to your deceased pet. Make an audio recording of yourself reading these memories, saying whatever emotional private things you feel. Listen to it. Add to it whenever it feels right.
4) Establish new routines.
5) Avoid keeping many conspicuous reminders of your grief. One by one, get rid of your pet's toys and other things that you may have wanted to keep as memories.
6) Learn to understand and respect your own mourning.
7) List your major thoughts and feelings.
8) Make a list of the smart and funny things your pet did that used to make you laugh or smile.
9) Don't live the life of a hermit or one who is atoning. Mourning pain is normal and inevitable, but extended misery is optional. Give yourself permission to heal. Feeling better is not disrespectful to the memory of your beloved pet.
10) Make a garden memorial spot.
Pretty much none of these things seem appropriate and pretty much all of them seem appropriate. Sometimes we just want to talk things out; want to reminisce but have spent so much time proving our courage and strength maybe no one acknowledges we may be hurting. Maybe 10 months ago everyone offered a shoulder and now, assume its unecessary.
On January 4th I was in a car accident. 8 days later, on January 12th, Misha passed. 20 days later, I had my heartbroken. Severely. The most difficult thing to deal with is that feeling of the rug being pulled out from underneath you. I can remember 4 years ago, on Thursday morning, October 21, when I got the call that Mary, a close friend, had been killed in a car accident late the night before. I remember looking at the phone, asking the caller to identify himself repeatedly, calling a co-worker over to validate the situation. I felt like I was dreaming. Literally. I could not believe the phone call. Then I drove to Mary's dad's house at 151st in Olathe, chain-smoking the entire way, sobbing...the whole drive was a blur. When I got there and he handed me some personal items that had been with her in the accident, that is when I knew it was not a dream. Her rosary...Looking back on my parents divorce feels like another experience where the rug was pulled out from underneath me. Looking back at last January 4th, it was a Friday evening, I had a hair appointment at 6:30 pm. Lauren and her mom were hanging out at the house, I had contemplated taking Misha with me in the car, but didn't. I left my house at 6:25. I drove north on Indiana, turned left on Brookside, and watched as the mini van drove from 50 yards away, to 20 yards away, and 5 yards away until it completely hit me head on. I remember spinning around several times; the sound of the axle shifting underneath my car, the sound of running board tearing off, the sound of trees as my car went down the ravine. I remember shaking so hard I could not dial 911. I remember all the people who came to the accident scene. I remember the ambulance, the male and female paramedic....being told if I hadn't been wearing my seatbelt I would not be alive.
I still cringe and pray when I see headlights coming at me. I hate driving in two-lane traffic. I am still terrified.
I remember the call that Misha was sick. It was Saturday morning, around 11:30, on January 12th. We rushed her to the emergency vet. I thought she had gotten into something. The vet seemed concerned. Her breathing was labored. This was obvious. The xray showed a chest cavity and abdominals completely overtaken by a mass. I fucking hate cancer. I shrieked through tearful sobs "can you buy me a few months" he responded "I can buy you a few hours". The humane thing to do would be to put her to sleep at that moment. I needed more time. That was selfish. I was back 4 hours later.
We talked about getting engaged. Previous to all this. I did love him. So much. The way he kissed me on the forehead. The way he knew my moods. The way he cooked. The way he looked at me. The way he took care of everything. Then, complete betrayal. A message from her; she had been with him as well. One phone call with trembling hands; "Fuck. You." And, nothing.
How important is closure? Does it make anything easier? Will I stop feeling guilty for keeping her alive those last few hours? Will I stop hurting and doubting everyone who allows me to realize love doesnt have to hurt? Not everyone will rip the rug out from underneath me? Do I honestly believe I deserve to be happy?
and a time to every purpose under the Heaven:
a time to be born and a time to die."
Euthanasia is a word derived from the Greek which literally means, "good death". Although the decision is demanded by humanitarian obligation, it is always traumatic for the person who must finally make that decision. It is the ultimate heartbreak we must endure for our dear companion animals.
Euthanasia should be used to put an end to terminal suffering and a negative quality of life. This choice is highly subjective and often difficult to make, but it is part of ultimate responsibility. We are morally obligated to protect and support the lives of our animal friends. Some people abuse this sacred trust by putting their own feelings above the needs of their pets - and they regret it later.
....part of our ultimate responsibility...we are morally obligated to protect and support...putting their own feelings above the needs....regret it later...
I came across a book which offered "practical suggestions to help one grieve the loss of a pet...". I began this post months ago, and occasionally came back to edit it, review it, and save the draft. Interesting how at different times the post seemed therapeutic and at others, forced.
1) Find sympathetic and supportive people, and let your feelings out. Cry. Don't hold back. If you supress feelings, that will only delay the healing and mourning process.
2) Dedicate something in your pet's name and memory.
3) It is never too late to say something to your deceased pet. Make an audio recording of yourself reading these memories, saying whatever emotional private things you feel. Listen to it. Add to it whenever it feels right.
4) Establish new routines.
5) Avoid keeping many conspicuous reminders of your grief. One by one, get rid of your pet's toys and other things that you may have wanted to keep as memories.
6) Learn to understand and respect your own mourning.
7) List your major thoughts and feelings.
8) Make a list of the smart and funny things your pet did that used to make you laugh or smile.
9) Don't live the life of a hermit or one who is atoning. Mourning pain is normal and inevitable, but extended misery is optional. Give yourself permission to heal. Feeling better is not disrespectful to the memory of your beloved pet.
10) Make a garden memorial spot.
Pretty much none of these things seem appropriate and pretty much all of them seem appropriate. Sometimes we just want to talk things out; want to reminisce but have spent so much time proving our courage and strength maybe no one acknowledges we may be hurting. Maybe 10 months ago everyone offered a shoulder and now, assume its unecessary.
On January 4th I was in a car accident. 8 days later, on January 12th, Misha passed. 20 days later, I had my heartbroken. Severely. The most difficult thing to deal with is that feeling of the rug being pulled out from underneath you. I can remember 4 years ago, on Thursday morning, October 21, when I got the call that Mary, a close friend, had been killed in a car accident late the night before. I remember looking at the phone, asking the caller to identify himself repeatedly, calling a co-worker over to validate the situation. I felt like I was dreaming. Literally. I could not believe the phone call. Then I drove to Mary's dad's house at 151st in Olathe, chain-smoking the entire way, sobbing...the whole drive was a blur. When I got there and he handed me some personal items that had been with her in the accident, that is when I knew it was not a dream. Her rosary...Looking back on my parents divorce feels like another experience where the rug was pulled out from underneath me. Looking back at last January 4th, it was a Friday evening, I had a hair appointment at 6:30 pm. Lauren and her mom were hanging out at the house, I had contemplated taking Misha with me in the car, but didn't. I left my house at 6:25. I drove north on Indiana, turned left on Brookside, and watched as the mini van drove from 50 yards away, to 20 yards away, and 5 yards away until it completely hit me head on. I remember spinning around several times; the sound of the axle shifting underneath my car, the sound of running board tearing off, the sound of trees as my car went down the ravine. I remember shaking so hard I could not dial 911. I remember all the people who came to the accident scene. I remember the ambulance, the male and female paramedic....being told if I hadn't been wearing my seatbelt I would not be alive.
I still cringe and pray when I see headlights coming at me. I hate driving in two-lane traffic. I am still terrified.
I remember the call that Misha was sick. It was Saturday morning, around 11:30, on January 12th. We rushed her to the emergency vet. I thought she had gotten into something. The vet seemed concerned. Her breathing was labored. This was obvious. The xray showed a chest cavity and abdominals completely overtaken by a mass. I fucking hate cancer. I shrieked through tearful sobs "can you buy me a few months" he responded "I can buy you a few hours". The humane thing to do would be to put her to sleep at that moment. I needed more time. That was selfish. I was back 4 hours later.
We talked about getting engaged. Previous to all this. I did love him. So much. The way he kissed me on the forehead. The way he knew my moods. The way he cooked. The way he looked at me. The way he took care of everything. Then, complete betrayal. A message from her; she had been with him as well. One phone call with trembling hands; "Fuck. You." And, nothing.
How important is closure? Does it make anything easier? Will I stop feeling guilty for keeping her alive those last few hours? Will I stop hurting and doubting everyone who allows me to realize love doesnt have to hurt? Not everyone will rip the rug out from underneath me? Do I honestly believe I deserve to be happy?
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Isn't it true that no matter how much we try to persuade ourselves that our past really doesn't matter, it most certainly does? Our past, no matter how we want to deny that it shapes us and our actions, actually forms our reactions to situations, and actions toward people in our lives? For example, you ride your bike around a curb and it slips out from underneath you, you go crashing to the ground. Aren't you then, somehow conditioned that, everytime you go around that curb, you will get a little anxious, your blood pressure will raise, and you will say a couple "Hail Mary's"? Or, lets say you fall in love with someone who is nothing they represented themself as, is it really possible to let loose and let go, and realize not everyone will betray you? Is it really possible, the next time someone seems too good to be true, they are just that good? Or, say you take your soulmate to the emergency vet on a cold, January Saturday afternoon because she is vomitting, which you assume is something she got into...and the x-rays reveal a chest and stomach completely overtaken with cancer, is it really possible the next time you take a loved canine companion to the emergency vet on a Saturday, it may not be cancer? The last time you were approached by someone downtown on the street they harassed you however, that surely doesn't mean the next time the person simply wants to hand you the documents that fell from your briefcase?
It would be so unfortunate to let our past experiences mold and shape our actions and reactions to our future blessings, now wouldn't it? How exactly does one let themselves fall in love again? Trust again? Not doubt again? How does one bring down their wall, again, and again, and again?
It would be so unfortunate to let our past experiences mold and shape our actions and reactions to our future blessings, now wouldn't it? How exactly does one let themselves fall in love again? Trust again? Not doubt again? How does one bring down their wall, again, and again, and again?
...
I have always liked the time before dawn because there's no one around to remind me who I'm supposed to be. So it's easier to remember who I am.
If you hold onto the handle, she said, it's easier to maintain the illusion of control. But it's more fun if you just let the wind carry you.
She said she usually cried at least once each day not because she was sad, but because the world was so beautiful and life was so short.
I used to wait for a sign, she said, before I did anything. Then one night I had a dream and an angel in black tights came to me and said, you can start any time now. And then I said is this a sign? And the angel started laughing and I woke up. Now, I think the whole world is filled with signs but if there's no laughter, I know they're not for me.
Everything changed the day she figured out there was exactly enough time for the important things in her life.
We lay there and looked up at the night sky and she told me about stars called blue squares and red swirls and I told her I'd never heard of them..Of course not, she said, the really important stuff they never tell you. You have to imagine it on your own.
In my dream, the angel shrugged and said, if we fail this time, it will be a failure of imagination. And then she placed the world gently in the palm of my hand.
If you hold onto the handle, she said, it's easier to maintain the illusion of control. But it's more fun if you just let the wind carry you.
She said she usually cried at least once each day not because she was sad, but because the world was so beautiful and life was so short.
I used to wait for a sign, she said, before I did anything. Then one night I had a dream and an angel in black tights came to me and said, you can start any time now. And then I said is this a sign? And the angel started laughing and I woke up. Now, I think the whole world is filled with signs but if there's no laughter, I know they're not for me.
Everything changed the day she figured out there was exactly enough time for the important things in her life.
We lay there and looked up at the night sky and she told me about stars called blue squares and red swirls and I told her I'd never heard of them..Of course not, she said, the really important stuff they never tell you. You have to imagine it on your own.
In my dream, the angel shrugged and said, if we fail this time, it will be a failure of imagination. And then she placed the world gently in the palm of my hand.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Palin a Racist?
The following is a statement from a Juneteenth Directors in Alaska:By Gwendolyn Alexander, President
“As for Governor Sarah Palin’s involvement in the African American community, the Governor’s office hasn’t participated in any of our Alaska Juneteenth Events. All previous Alaskan Governor’s have traditionally attended and participated in our annual Juneteenth Celebration. Gov. Palin was the first governor not to send out a congratulatory letter or assist us in any way with our Juneteenth activities.I didn’t have the courtesy of receiving a reply when I asked for a representative from the Governor’s office to come and speak at our Juneteenth Celebration if Governor Palin was unable to attend. I never even heard of Gov. Palin until she was elected Mayor of Wasilla, Alaska, in Mat-Su Valley.
Governor Palin is a very energetic and spontaneous woman. With some of the things being said and going around this state right now, I’m surprised none of the national media have bothered to come here and get the words directly from the mouths of the people who have lived with her all of these years instead of ’surfing the net!’
My other opinion is why would an individual who, to my knowledge, has not hired any African-Americans on her gubernatorial staff, insist so passionately on being on a television show owned and operated by an African American, Oprah Winfrey?While meeting with black leaders concerning the absence of any African-Americans on her staff, Gov. Palin responded that she doesn’t have to hire any blacks and was not intending to hire any. What kind of attitude is this toward African-American for who may be the first Vice-President of the United States?I understand Oprah did have Senator Obama on her show a few times and was the main person raising funds for him “before” the presidency race was in full swing. However, the key point here is that it is Oprah’s prerogative not be used as a pawn to tilt the vote one way or another. Oprah has stated repeatedly that she wasn’t going to have one side or the other on her show by choice. I thought that was what the Civil Rights Movement was all about, a persons right to make their own choices. I guess this isn’t a Democracy at all anymore.”
Gwendolyn Alexander, PresidentAfrican American Historical Society of Alaska, Inc.Alaska Juneteenth CelebrationP. O. Box 143105Anchorage AK 99514907 884-6860 email: aahsa@gci.net www.juneteenthalaska.com www.entertainmealaska.com/aahsa http://straighttalkexpresswatch.wordpress.com/2008/09/1...
“As for Governor Sarah Palin’s involvement in the African American community, the Governor’s office hasn’t participated in any of our Alaska Juneteenth Events. All previous Alaskan Governor’s have traditionally attended and participated in our annual Juneteenth Celebration. Gov. Palin was the first governor not to send out a congratulatory letter or assist us in any way with our Juneteenth activities.I didn’t have the courtesy of receiving a reply when I asked for a representative from the Governor’s office to come and speak at our Juneteenth Celebration if Governor Palin was unable to attend. I never even heard of Gov. Palin until she was elected Mayor of Wasilla, Alaska, in Mat-Su Valley.
Governor Palin is a very energetic and spontaneous woman. With some of the things being said and going around this state right now, I’m surprised none of the national media have bothered to come here and get the words directly from the mouths of the people who have lived with her all of these years instead of ’surfing the net!’
My other opinion is why would an individual who, to my knowledge, has not hired any African-Americans on her gubernatorial staff, insist so passionately on being on a television show owned and operated by an African American, Oprah Winfrey?While meeting with black leaders concerning the absence of any African-Americans on her staff, Gov. Palin responded that she doesn’t have to hire any blacks and was not intending to hire any. What kind of attitude is this toward African-American for who may be the first Vice-President of the United States?I understand Oprah did have Senator Obama on her show a few times and was the main person raising funds for him “before” the presidency race was in full swing. However, the key point here is that it is Oprah’s prerogative not be used as a pawn to tilt the vote one way or another. Oprah has stated repeatedly that she wasn’t going to have one side or the other on her show by choice. I thought that was what the Civil Rights Movement was all about, a persons right to make their own choices. I guess this isn’t a Democracy at all anymore.”
Gwendolyn Alexander, PresidentAfrican American Historical Society of Alaska, Inc.Alaska Juneteenth CelebrationP. O. Box 143105Anchorage AK 99514907 884-6860 email: aahsa@gci.net www.juneteenthalaska.com www.entertainmealaska.com/aahsa http://straighttalkexpresswatch.wordpress.com/2008/09/1...
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Horrific Abuse at Iowa Farm -
(www.cnn.com) An undercover video taken at an Iowa pig farm shows workers hitting sows with metal rods, slamming piglets on a concrete floor and bragging about jamming rods up into sows' hindquarters.
The pork industry and a Hormel spokesperson say animal abuse is unacceptable and not the norm.
On the video, obtained by The Associated Press, a supervisor tells an undercover investigator for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals that when he gets angry or a sow won't move, "I grab one of these rods and jam it in her [anus]."
The farm outside Bayard, Iowa, about 60 miles west of Des Moines, is a supplier to Hormel Foods of Austin, Minnesota. PETA wants to use the results of the investigation to pressure Hormel, the maker of Spam and other food products, to demand that its suppliers ensure humane treatment of pigs.
Hormel spokeswoman Julie Henderson Craven on Tuesday called the abuses "completely unacceptable."
The animal rights group also planned to send the video to the sheriff in Greene County, Iowa, seeking prosecution of 18 people on animal cruelty violations. According to PETA Vice President Bruce Friedrich, the video shows eight people directly abusing animals.
"Abuse on factory farms is the absolute norm, not the exception, and anyone eating factory-farmed meat is paying to support it," Friedrich said.
After getting a whistleblower complaint from someone inside the farm, PETA sent two undercover investigators to be hired at the farm and document its practices -- one from June 10 to September 8, and the other from July 23 to September 11.
At one point on the video, an employee shouts to an investigator, "Hurt 'em! There's nobody works for PETA out here. You know who PETA is?"
The undercover PETA investigator replies that he's heard of the group.
"I hate them. These [expletives] deserve to be hurt. Hurt, I say!," the employee yells as he hits a sow with a metal rod. "Hurt! Hurt! Hurt! Hurt! ... Take out your frustrations on 'em." He encourages the investigator to pretend that one of the pigs scared off a voluptuous and willing 17- or 18-year-old girl, and then beat the pig for it.
Records at the Greene County Assessor's Office show the property was owned by Natural Pork Production II LLP of Iowa until August 18, and then was transferred to MowMar LLP of Fairmont, Minnesota.
Lynn Becker, an owner of MowMar, called the abuses on the video "completely intolerable, reprehensible. We condemn these types of acts. If any animals were abused in the brief time we've owned the farm, if we still employ these people, any attempt will be made to investigate and initiate corrective action immediately."
Becker said his company provided animal welfare training to the staff when it took over the farm.
Natural Pork Production II referred questions to AMVC Management Services, which managed the farm under its ownership. Mark Jones, AMVC's network manager, said the video showed "unacceptable practices" and that his company is working with the new ownership to investigate.
Craven, the Hormel spokeswoman, said the farm became a Hormel supplier only after the change in ownership, and that MowMar "shares our commitment to animal welfare and humane handling."
"We expect all current suppliers to adhere to the proper animal handling standards from day one and continue to do so throughout our relationship. We are working with our supplier to ensure this activity is no longer taking place," Hormel said in a statement on its Web site.
Craven said it was her understanding that the abuses took place before the change in ownership. But PETA's Friedrich said the abuses continued, and that the new manager abused animals by shocking and kicking pigs.
Dr. Jennifer Greiner, a veterinarian and director of science and technology at the National Pork Producers Council, said the industry condemns "willful abuse" of pigs and that the video depicts acts that are not acceptable.
"Our industry is committed to handling pigs humanely," she said. "My industry is full of good people."
At one point in the video, workers are shown slamming piglets on the ground, a practice designed to instantly kill those baby pigs that aren't healthy enough. But on the video, the piglets are not killed instantly, and in a bloodied pile, some piglets can be seen wiggling vainly. The video also shows piglets being castrated, and having their tails cut off, without anesthesia.
Temple Grandin, a leading animal welfare expert who serves as a consultant to the livestock industry, said that while those are standard industry practices, the treatment of the sows on the video was far from it.
"This is atrocious animal abuse," Grandin said after PETA sent her the video. But she disagreed with PETA's contention that it was widespread in the industry.
"I've been on many good farms, and the pigs are handled gently," she said. "This was blatant, deliberate animal cruelty. These people are sick. They need to be prosecuted. There are certain people that enjoy hurting animals and they should not be working with them -- period."
One of the PETA investigators, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to protect his ability to do further undercover operations, said there was a culture of violence on the farm, and working there was an emotionally and physically exhausting experience that typically involved working 12-hour shifts and walking 15 miles a day.
"So many times, it took all of my willpower not to step up and do something," he said, adding that he also saw the supervisor shove a cane into a sow's vagina. "I was just shocked. What do you say to that?"
The pork industry and a Hormel spokesperson say animal abuse is unacceptable and not the norm.
On the video, obtained by The Associated Press, a supervisor tells an undercover investigator for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals that when he gets angry or a sow won't move, "I grab one of these rods and jam it in her [anus]."
The farm outside Bayard, Iowa, about 60 miles west of Des Moines, is a supplier to Hormel Foods of Austin, Minnesota. PETA wants to use the results of the investigation to pressure Hormel, the maker of Spam and other food products, to demand that its suppliers ensure humane treatment of pigs.
Hormel spokeswoman Julie Henderson Craven on Tuesday called the abuses "completely unacceptable."
The animal rights group also planned to send the video to the sheriff in Greene County, Iowa, seeking prosecution of 18 people on animal cruelty violations. According to PETA Vice President Bruce Friedrich, the video shows eight people directly abusing animals.
"Abuse on factory farms is the absolute norm, not the exception, and anyone eating factory-farmed meat is paying to support it," Friedrich said.
After getting a whistleblower complaint from someone inside the farm, PETA sent two undercover investigators to be hired at the farm and document its practices -- one from June 10 to September 8, and the other from July 23 to September 11.
At one point on the video, an employee shouts to an investigator, "Hurt 'em! There's nobody works for PETA out here. You know who PETA is?"
The undercover PETA investigator replies that he's heard of the group.
"I hate them. These [expletives] deserve to be hurt. Hurt, I say!," the employee yells as he hits a sow with a metal rod. "Hurt! Hurt! Hurt! Hurt! ... Take out your frustrations on 'em." He encourages the investigator to pretend that one of the pigs scared off a voluptuous and willing 17- or 18-year-old girl, and then beat the pig for it.
Records at the Greene County Assessor's Office show the property was owned by Natural Pork Production II LLP of Iowa until August 18, and then was transferred to MowMar LLP of Fairmont, Minnesota.
Lynn Becker, an owner of MowMar, called the abuses on the video "completely intolerable, reprehensible. We condemn these types of acts. If any animals were abused in the brief time we've owned the farm, if we still employ these people, any attempt will be made to investigate and initiate corrective action immediately."
Becker said his company provided animal welfare training to the staff when it took over the farm.
Natural Pork Production II referred questions to AMVC Management Services, which managed the farm under its ownership. Mark Jones, AMVC's network manager, said the video showed "unacceptable practices" and that his company is working with the new ownership to investigate.
Craven, the Hormel spokeswoman, said the farm became a Hormel supplier only after the change in ownership, and that MowMar "shares our commitment to animal welfare and humane handling."
"We expect all current suppliers to adhere to the proper animal handling standards from day one and continue to do so throughout our relationship. We are working with our supplier to ensure this activity is no longer taking place," Hormel said in a statement on its Web site.
Craven said it was her understanding that the abuses took place before the change in ownership. But PETA's Friedrich said the abuses continued, and that the new manager abused animals by shocking and kicking pigs.
Dr. Jennifer Greiner, a veterinarian and director of science and technology at the National Pork Producers Council, said the industry condemns "willful abuse" of pigs and that the video depicts acts that are not acceptable.
"Our industry is committed to handling pigs humanely," she said. "My industry is full of good people."
At one point in the video, workers are shown slamming piglets on the ground, a practice designed to instantly kill those baby pigs that aren't healthy enough. But on the video, the piglets are not killed instantly, and in a bloodied pile, some piglets can be seen wiggling vainly. The video also shows piglets being castrated, and having their tails cut off, without anesthesia.
Temple Grandin, a leading animal welfare expert who serves as a consultant to the livestock industry, said that while those are standard industry practices, the treatment of the sows on the video was far from it.
"This is atrocious animal abuse," Grandin said after PETA sent her the video. But she disagreed with PETA's contention that it was widespread in the industry.
"I've been on many good farms, and the pigs are handled gently," she said. "This was blatant, deliberate animal cruelty. These people are sick. They need to be prosecuted. There are certain people that enjoy hurting animals and they should not be working with them -- period."
One of the PETA investigators, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to protect his ability to do further undercover operations, said there was a culture of violence on the farm, and working there was an emotionally and physically exhausting experience that typically involved working 12-hour shifts and walking 15 miles a day.
"So many times, it took all of my willpower not to step up and do something," he said, adding that he also saw the supervisor shove a cane into a sow's vagina. "I was just shocked. What do you say to that?"
Monday, September 15, 2008
Obama'08
I'm a little confused. Let me see if I have this straight.....
* If you grow up in Hawaii , raised by your grandparents, you're "exotic, different."
* Grow up in Alaska eating moose burgers, a quintessential American story.
* If your name is Barack you're a radical, unpatriotic Muslim.
* Name your kids Willow, Bristol, Piper, Trig and Track you're a maverick.
* Graduate from Harvard law School and you are unstable.
* Attend 5 different small colleges before graduating, you're well grounded.
* If you spend 3 years as a brilliant community organizer, become the first black President of the Harvard Law Review, create a voter registration drive that registers 150,000 new voters, spend 12 years as a Constitutional Law professor, spend 8 years as a State Senator representing a district with over 750,000 people, become chairman of the Illinois State Senate's Health and Human Services committee, spend 4 years in the United States Senate representing a state of 13 million people while sponsoring 131 bills and serving on the Foreign Affairs, Environment and Public Works and Veteran's Affairs committees, you don't have any real leadership experience.
* If your total resume is: local weather girl, 4 years on the city council and 6 years as the mayor of a town with less than 7,000 people, 20 months as the governor of a state with only 650,000 people, then you're qualified to become the country's second highest ranking executive.
* If you have been married to the same woman for 19 years while raising 2 beautiful daughters, all within Protestant churches, you're not a real Christian.
* If you cheated on your first wife with a rich heiress, and left your disfigured wife and married the heiress the next month, you're a Christian.
* If you teach responsible, age appropriate sex education, including the proper use of birth control, you are eroding the fiber of society.
* If, while governor, you staunchly advocate abstinence only, with no other option in sex education in your state's school system while your unwed teen daughter ends up pregnant, you're very responsible.
* If your wife is a Harvard graduate lawyer who gave up a position in a prestigious law firm to work for the betterment of her inner city community, then gave that up to raise a family, your family's values don't represent America 's.
* If you're husband is nicknamed "First Dude", with at least one DWI conviction and no college education, who didn't register to vote until age 25 and once was a member of a group that advocated the secession of Alaska from the USA, your family is extremely admirable.OK, much clearer now.
* If you grow up in Hawaii , raised by your grandparents, you're "exotic, different."
* Grow up in Alaska eating moose burgers, a quintessential American story.
* If your name is Barack you're a radical, unpatriotic Muslim.
* Name your kids Willow, Bristol, Piper, Trig and Track you're a maverick.
* Graduate from Harvard law School and you are unstable.
* Attend 5 different small colleges before graduating, you're well grounded.
* If you spend 3 years as a brilliant community organizer, become the first black President of the Harvard Law Review, create a voter registration drive that registers 150,000 new voters, spend 12 years as a Constitutional Law professor, spend 8 years as a State Senator representing a district with over 750,000 people, become chairman of the Illinois State Senate's Health and Human Services committee, spend 4 years in the United States Senate representing a state of 13 million people while sponsoring 131 bills and serving on the Foreign Affairs, Environment and Public Works and Veteran's Affairs committees, you don't have any real leadership experience.
* If your total resume is: local weather girl, 4 years on the city council and 6 years as the mayor of a town with less than 7,000 people, 20 months as the governor of a state with only 650,000 people, then you're qualified to become the country's second highest ranking executive.
* If you have been married to the same woman for 19 years while raising 2 beautiful daughters, all within Protestant churches, you're not a real Christian.
* If you cheated on your first wife with a rich heiress, and left your disfigured wife and married the heiress the next month, you're a Christian.
* If you teach responsible, age appropriate sex education, including the proper use of birth control, you are eroding the fiber of society.
* If, while governor, you staunchly advocate abstinence only, with no other option in sex education in your state's school system while your unwed teen daughter ends up pregnant, you're very responsible.
* If your wife is a Harvard graduate lawyer who gave up a position in a prestigious law firm to work for the betterment of her inner city community, then gave that up to raise a family, your family's values don't represent America 's.
* If you're husband is nicknamed "First Dude", with at least one DWI conviction and no college education, who didn't register to vote until age 25 and once was a member of a group that advocated the secession of Alaska from the USA, your family is extremely admirable.OK, much clearer now.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Relationships...and age?
As we age we become more mature, more solution-oriented, better communicators, more sincere and empathetic, more generous and caring. At least, we like to think so. I do know, in the past 5-6 years I have come leaps and bounds; I have become more empathetic, more patient, generous, understanding and solution-oriented. My conflict-resolution skills, although no where near perfection, have become useful and my communication skills have improved.
So, why does it seem not everyone else has improved with age, as well? This blog is somewhat scatter-brained so stick with me. A few of my relationships have been troubling me lately, and I have troubled myself in handling a relationship or two.
I have what some refer to as the "toxic friendship". We have been friends for several years, although we were better friends back in my partying days. I am not really sure what either one of us get out of the relationship, and whenever we spend time together I exit the situation feeling a little less than warm and fuzzy inside. I feel like I am a difficult person to get to know and am somewhat guarded, and I realize this and am working on it. As of late, I have noticed anytime I am in a social situation, albeit coffee, lunch, dinner, etc., I am the one initiating conversation and asking questions. In this particular relationship, they are very eager to learn about my life however it is very forced and feels like a job interview or a first date. There was also a situation in this friendship where I feel I was betrayed and wasn't defended when the case arose. I forgive and forget but, if I am not feeling any benefits from the friendship, what is the point?
I also have a relationship where, unfortunately I am quite sure there is some jealousy involved. When you love someone you should be happy for them and proud of them, yet I feel like when I make decisions or am blessed with certain situations, this relationship is strained because they chose a different road in life and therefore were never able to take advantage of everything that I am. Thing is, these relationships are so "the grass is always greener" because I so badly want to be married and have a child...I just haven't "settled" and I'm quite sure they have. They ask me questions that are pointed and judgmental; not because they genuinely want to know the answer. Leaves me with a bitter taste in my mouth. And, leaves me feeling sad. There are people I envy however, I would never put them down or try to burn their flame out in an attempt to make mine grow brighter.
I am also in a relationship which is somewhat casual, somewhat intense. I feel like we're on different pages and I have never compromised before. I've always seen things very clearly and, if we're on different pages, just part ways and chalk it off to a good time and good company. I know what I want, and I dont wait for it. I am somewhat conflicted because I know I need to stay out there, which I have, and keep my options open. Just seems so unnatural, you know? I feel like it isn't really fair to anyone if I am still out there yet, that is only fair to me. I've given 100% before, as in the current situation, I know when only 60% is being given back.
I have been told in the past that certain people in my life are "really hard on me". I have also been told by people close to me they feel I dont realize my worth and settle. I had coffee with a friend yesterday who pointed out that, as you get older, and are in our 'situation' people want to know what is wrong when they discover you haven't been married and have no children. People also assume as you get older you a) lower your requirements to not end up alone and/or b) you ave this wild and crazy lifestyle being that you are a bachelor/bachelorette. Nothing could be farther from the truth. I would love nothing more than to find someone to fall in love with, marry, and have a child with, at the same time my lifestyle is nothing like people would like to think (and live vicariously though). I have a small circle of close friends, my family being the majority of those relationships. I haven't lowered my expectations or requirements, and if nothing else, whereas I used to 'wait it out' for months hoping someone would end up to be what I hoped they were, I realize people dont change and don't want to waste anyone's time if it isn't going to work. What is difficult being thirty-something and "out there" is that we assume everyone wants what we want, and that certainly isn't always the case.
So, why is it I won't settle in romantic relationships, however am clearly settling in platonic relationships?
So, why does it seem not everyone else has improved with age, as well? This blog is somewhat scatter-brained so stick with me. A few of my relationships have been troubling me lately, and I have troubled myself in handling a relationship or two.
I have what some refer to as the "toxic friendship". We have been friends for several years, although we were better friends back in my partying days. I am not really sure what either one of us get out of the relationship, and whenever we spend time together I exit the situation feeling a little less than warm and fuzzy inside. I feel like I am a difficult person to get to know and am somewhat guarded, and I realize this and am working on it. As of late, I have noticed anytime I am in a social situation, albeit coffee, lunch, dinner, etc., I am the one initiating conversation and asking questions. In this particular relationship, they are very eager to learn about my life however it is very forced and feels like a job interview or a first date. There was also a situation in this friendship where I feel I was betrayed and wasn't defended when the case arose. I forgive and forget but, if I am not feeling any benefits from the friendship, what is the point?
I also have a relationship where, unfortunately I am quite sure there is some jealousy involved. When you love someone you should be happy for them and proud of them, yet I feel like when I make decisions or am blessed with certain situations, this relationship is strained because they chose a different road in life and therefore were never able to take advantage of everything that I am. Thing is, these relationships are so "the grass is always greener" because I so badly want to be married and have a child...I just haven't "settled" and I'm quite sure they have. They ask me questions that are pointed and judgmental; not because they genuinely want to know the answer. Leaves me with a bitter taste in my mouth. And, leaves me feeling sad. There are people I envy however, I would never put them down or try to burn their flame out in an attempt to make mine grow brighter.
I am also in a relationship which is somewhat casual, somewhat intense. I feel like we're on different pages and I have never compromised before. I've always seen things very clearly and, if we're on different pages, just part ways and chalk it off to a good time and good company. I know what I want, and I dont wait for it. I am somewhat conflicted because I know I need to stay out there, which I have, and keep my options open. Just seems so unnatural, you know? I feel like it isn't really fair to anyone if I am still out there yet, that is only fair to me. I've given 100% before, as in the current situation, I know when only 60% is being given back.
I have been told in the past that certain people in my life are "really hard on me". I have also been told by people close to me they feel I dont realize my worth and settle. I had coffee with a friend yesterday who pointed out that, as you get older, and are in our 'situation' people want to know what is wrong when they discover you haven't been married and have no children. People also assume as you get older you a) lower your requirements to not end up alone and/or b) you ave this wild and crazy lifestyle being that you are a bachelor/bachelorette. Nothing could be farther from the truth. I would love nothing more than to find someone to fall in love with, marry, and have a child with, at the same time my lifestyle is nothing like people would like to think (and live vicariously though). I have a small circle of close friends, my family being the majority of those relationships. I haven't lowered my expectations or requirements, and if nothing else, whereas I used to 'wait it out' for months hoping someone would end up to be what I hoped they were, I realize people dont change and don't want to waste anyone's time if it isn't going to work. What is difficult being thirty-something and "out there" is that we assume everyone wants what we want, and that certainly isn't always the case.
So, why is it I won't settle in romantic relationships, however am clearly settling in platonic relationships?
Saturday, September 13, 2008
When I'm feeling sad I simply remember my favorite things and then I don't feel so bad.
"Copasetic"...
Stella playing with a cricket or spider...
Remembering what Misha felt like...
Rainy Sunday mornings...
Going to church...
Tyler's Chewbaca noises...
When Grace kisses me and makes her noise...
My Mom's no-special-occasion-just-thinking-of-you cards...
Paying off a credit card...
Candles....
Alone time...
Max nudging my hand to pet him...
Time with someone I care about...
Michael Vick in jail...
My Dad's laugh...
"Miss. Sarah!"...
"Drop it Like Its Hot"...
Driving in my car with the windows down...
Lunch outside at Bravo with a girlfriend...
Finding someone I care about...
Listening to someone I care about talk about something they're passionate about...
Knowing I won't get hurt...
My brother imitating me...
My brother threatening to kick the ass of some douche bag that hurt me...
Reality TV...
Dinner with my roomate Lauren...
Comfortable silences...
Starbucks and the Sunday paper...
Vaccuum lines in my carpet...
Vanilla and lavender...
Fresh sheets on my bed...
Warm bubble baths...
60 degrees...
Windows open...
Not burning the wick from both ends...
Not feeling guilty when I use retail therapy...
Retail therapy...
Grilling out...
Knowing how far I have come...
David Cook and Mathew McConaughey...
Undeniable chemistry...
Knowing someone finds me irresistable...
Needing somone...
My iPod on the bus ride home at the end of a long day...
"Leavin'" and "Before he Cheats" ringtones...
Dinner at Baja 600 with Angela...
Baking chocolate chip cookies...
Totally open Saturday when I can do whatever I want, and end up doing whatever I want...
Wedding receptions...
Chocolate almond ice cream...
The butterflies a crush gives me...
New issue of Cosmo magazine...
Chai tea Latte...
Kari, Rob and Patrick at Starbucks in City Centre Square...
"Hey There Delilah"...
Pixie cuts...
My Mom's Ramen Salad...
Birthday Cake for Jesus...
Listening to Tommy talk about politics. Actually, listening to Tommy talk about anything...
Amy moving to Kansas City...
Flannel PJ bottoms...
Flip Flops...
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Utah...
Flirting...
My sister being a sex educator and knowing more than me...
When clothes fit loosely...
A good hairday...
Make-up...
Getting dressed up...
The smell of the furnace when it first kicks on every fall...
Easter...
Going out for brunch then napping all day...
Walking my dogs...
CDL...
Forgiving...
Mexican food...
"I love you."...
Daily planners...
Hope...
Celebrity gossip...
ANTM...
A great bra...
SNKC
Puppy mills getting busted...
Stella playing with a cricket or spider...
Remembering what Misha felt like...
Rainy Sunday mornings...
Going to church...
Tyler's Chewbaca noises...
When Grace kisses me and makes her noise...
My Mom's no-special-occasion-just-thinking-of-you cards...
Paying off a credit card...
Candles....
Alone time...
Max nudging my hand to pet him...
Time with someone I care about...
Michael Vick in jail...
My Dad's laugh...
"Miss. Sarah!"...
"Drop it Like Its Hot"...
Driving in my car with the windows down...
Lunch outside at Bravo with a girlfriend...
Finding someone I care about...
Listening to someone I care about talk about something they're passionate about...
Knowing I won't get hurt...
My brother imitating me...
My brother threatening to kick the ass of some douche bag that hurt me...
Reality TV...
Dinner with my roomate Lauren...
Comfortable silences...
Starbucks and the Sunday paper...
Vaccuum lines in my carpet...
Vanilla and lavender...
Fresh sheets on my bed...
Warm bubble baths...
60 degrees...
Windows open...
Not burning the wick from both ends...
Not feeling guilty when I use retail therapy...
Retail therapy...
Grilling out...
Knowing how far I have come...
David Cook and Mathew McConaughey...
Undeniable chemistry...
Knowing someone finds me irresistable...
Needing somone...
My iPod on the bus ride home at the end of a long day...
"Leavin'" and "Before he Cheats" ringtones...
Dinner at Baja 600 with Angela...
Baking chocolate chip cookies...
Totally open Saturday when I can do whatever I want, and end up doing whatever I want...
Wedding receptions...
Chocolate almond ice cream...
The butterflies a crush gives me...
New issue of Cosmo magazine...
Chai tea Latte...
Kari, Rob and Patrick at Starbucks in City Centre Square...
"Hey There Delilah"...
Pixie cuts...
My Mom's Ramen Salad...
Birthday Cake for Jesus...
Listening to Tommy talk about politics. Actually, listening to Tommy talk about anything...
Amy moving to Kansas City...
Flannel PJ bottoms...
Flip Flops...
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Utah...
Flirting...
My sister being a sex educator and knowing more than me...
When clothes fit loosely...
A good hairday...
Make-up...
Getting dressed up...
The smell of the furnace when it first kicks on every fall...
Easter...
Going out for brunch then napping all day...
Walking my dogs...
CDL...
Forgiving...
Mexican food...
"I love you."...
Daily planners...
Hope...
Celebrity gossip...
ANTM...
A great bra...
SNKC
Puppy mills getting busted...
Friday, September 12, 2008
That Perfect Fit
Most of us yearn for a pair of jeans, a pair of shoes, a shirt that is the perfect one; makes us feel good, looks good, we form a relationship with it, take care of it, wash it on delicate, and love it. Some of us have an idea of what the perfect fit is; the perfect Ed Hardy shirt that drapes over the hips and flatters the waist, or the perfect pair of Seven jeans that makes Kim Kardashian envious. So, what happens when you find the perfect Ed Hardy shirt that is everything you always wanted but yet not always available? Sometimes it just can't be worn. Do you keep looking for the perfect Ed Hardy shirt that is always avilable or do you realize what you have is everything you have always wanted yet, just can't be available at all times. We all hate dressing rooms; trying shirts on is so tiresome and exhausting and the same thing over and over again. The perfect shirt makes you feel good about yourself even on your 'bad' days. At the same time, if we've waited this long to find the perfect shirt, why not keep waiting to find the perfect fit, the perfect feel, and a shirt that can be worn whenever you want to wear it? Then you ask yourself, well if the shirt cannot be worn whenever I want to, then the times I can wear it I will really appreciate it.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Baldwin
I am ecstatic to report that my seester and Alix have "adopted" a Rott-mix whom they have named Baldwin. Well, let me rephrase - they are "fostering" a rescue dog however, once you name them and spend hundreds of dollars on them, they aren't going anywhere. Take it from someone who knows - me:)
I am just tickled!! Long story, abuse and neglect of course, and some AWESOME woman that Amy works with who takes in strays and tries to adopt them out. Well, Baldwin is the result of an abandoned unaltered female left to die, an all-to common story. He is pretty thin, as Amy reports and from what I can tell in the pictures.
Amy called me Saturday morning when she was driving to pick him up (1 1/2 hour drive mind you!) I walked into the kitchen while I was still on the phone with Amy to announce to Lauren the good news and Lauren responded with "Awww that is so great!! Now you have to go teach ghetto kids about STDs to help her out." Aww, gotta love Lauren.
Thank you Amy for taking in Baldwin!!!!
I am just tickled!! Long story, abuse and neglect of course, and some AWESOME woman that Amy works with who takes in strays and tries to adopt them out. Well, Baldwin is the result of an abandoned unaltered female left to die, an all-to common story. He is pretty thin, as Amy reports and from what I can tell in the pictures.
Amy called me Saturday morning when she was driving to pick him up (1 1/2 hour drive mind you!) I walked into the kitchen while I was still on the phone with Amy to announce to Lauren the good news and Lauren responded with "Awww that is so great!! Now you have to go teach ghetto kids about STDs to help her out." Aww, gotta love Lauren.
Thank you Amy for taking in Baldwin!!!!
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Pretty cool
I have such a crush. I have not successfully sabotaged it this time. Although I tried. Which, he clearly deserves a gold medal for putting up with that. He really is pretty great. He is hysterical. He makes me laugh. He is sensitive. He is sincere. He isn't judgmental. He is caring. He is pretty cool. He is really sexy too. I like him.
Don't Breed or Buy While Shelter Dogs Die....and other opinions of mine...
Let me clarify my animal activism stance:
1) I abhor breeders. There is no point to breed. NONE. NONE WHATSOEVER. 12 million dogs are euthanized every year and you are going to tell me there is ANY good reason to breed more?!? For money??? I dont care if Joe Schmoe wants a PUREBRED Pointer from the best breeder in the midwest, and I dont care if Barbie Baldwin wants her min-pin or her shit-zu and wants "the best" which means spending $2000 instead of the $100 adoption fee. I just dont care!! There are purebreds, puppies, etc. etc. etc. at every shelter in every county in the country. In fact, there are actual BREED SPECIFIC RESCUE GROUPS i.e. you can google "midwest pitbull rescue" or "east coast pomeranian rescue" or "southern golden retriever rescue".
2) Puppy Mills are all over this country, tragically, and are absolute HELL ON EARTH for these animals. The puppy mill "breeders" have female (bitches) whom they breed repeatedly until their bodies fall apart. Literally. The female dogs are bred every single heat cycle from their first heat cycle (typically around age 6-8 months) until their vulva and uterus hang out of their rectum. Becuase puppy mill people are white-trash pieces of shit, they also do their best to make sure the animals (both females and males - "studs") are comfortable, living in cages so tiny they cannot stand up, which means their muscles atrophy and usually when a puppy mill is "busted" the animals have completely lost use of these legs, oftentimes have to have them amputated. They live in their own feces and urine, cage upon cage upon wire cage of hell. Now, for the idiots out there who STILL want a dog from a breeder or a pet store (pet stores get ALL their dogs from Puppy mills, and anyone purchasing from a Breeder has NO WAY to ensure it is NOT a puppy mill) need to know that siblings are being bred with siblings and parents are being bred with offspring and if just being an ethical, humane human being isn't reason enough to NOT go to a breeder or puppy mill, maybe the proceeding vet bills will be?
3) Pitbulls are my passion. They are my passion because they are misunderstood. I love all dogs. ALL. I had a Rottweiler, and that was my first taste of the "Bully Breeds". PROVEN FACT: pitbulls are, genetically and trait characteristically, the best dogs with small children, one of the most intelligent breeds, one of the most loyal breeds, and one of the LEAST AGGRESSIVE BREEDS. Now, the reason we hear about pitbull bites' and attacks is because their jaws are genetically stronger (because of the bloodlines and the jackasses who have been breeding them) so WHEN a pitbull DOES bite, it can be fatal. However, Jack Russell Terriers, Chihuahuas and Cocker Spaniels are MORE apt to attack and/or bite!! Pitbulls have been banned in every area of the Greater KC area except for KCMO. Which, is where I live. There are 5 points (characteristics and/or traits) in determining if a mix-breed has pitbull, and you cannot have a dog that meets any of these traits in Leawood, Joco, Gladstone, Olathe, Liberty, and I'm sure many others that I am forgetting. IF you live in KCMO you may have a pit or pit-mix as long as the dog is altered (spayed or neutered). The ignorance of, and education level of, and, apparent empathy level of, the morons who fight and abuse bully breeds, are directly related to the reason these pathetic individuals own, breed, fight, use, abuse, neglect, starve and murder bully breeds. Yes, it is an education issue. Yes, it is a cultural issue. I have worked with animal rescue and pitbull rescue for years and the fighting rings are either found in trailer parks or in the ghetto. Starving, emaciated, abused and dumped dogs are found in the ghetto. This is not a race issue - this is a poverty and education and cultural issue. Now, there was a dog-fighting ring that was broken up in Johnson County last year. And, there is an exception to every rule.
4) Why even have a dog if you are going to chain it up, outside, in freezing cold ice and rain, blistering heat, and tornadoes? Why? Why chain a dog up outside? Dogs are companion animals, they're meant to be a part of your family, in your house. I throw up in my mouth a little every time I hear someone say "oh he is too big to be in the house" then WHY THE FUCK DID YOU GET A BIG DOG??? There are enough intelligent people out there who realize you shouldn't discriminate and small dog, big dog, black dog, white dog, drooling dog, prissy dog, whatever the dog they all deserve to be inside, party-of-the-family dogs!! WE - human beings - domesticated wolves into dogs therefore it is our RESPONSIBILITY to take care of them!!!
I was at the Penn Valley Dog Park today and was approached by a really nice gentleman who had a 'mix' puppy. He complemented Stella's coat. Stella is my pit-mix. Let me rephrase, Stella is my nearly 90-lb thinks she is a lap dog pit mix. He complemented her coat and her demeanor. He then overheard me call her Stella and said "I know another American Staffordshire Terrier named Stella." The man, being politically correct as, there really is no such breed as a pitbull, they're called American Staffordshire Terriers... was very sweet, and very complementary which, we all know is the way to my heart when you complement my dogs:) He proceeded to tell me the other Stella he knew was a pure-bred pitbull his friend has spent thousands of dollars on. I didn't get on my soapbox, don't worry.
I'm just going to throw one more statistic out there for you before I move onto my next activity - of the 10,000 dogs that were euthanized at KC Animal Control last year (2007) more than 3500 were pitbull mixes. There are hundreds of breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club and more than 35% of 10,000 dogs euthanized WERE ONE OF THESE BREEDS.
1) I abhor breeders. There is no point to breed. NONE. NONE WHATSOEVER. 12 million dogs are euthanized every year and you are going to tell me there is ANY good reason to breed more?!? For money??? I dont care if Joe Schmoe wants a PUREBRED Pointer from the best breeder in the midwest, and I dont care if Barbie Baldwin wants her min-pin or her shit-zu and wants "the best" which means spending $2000 instead of the $100 adoption fee. I just dont care!! There are purebreds, puppies, etc. etc. etc. at every shelter in every county in the country. In fact, there are actual BREED SPECIFIC RESCUE GROUPS i.e. you can google "midwest pitbull rescue" or "east coast pomeranian rescue" or "southern golden retriever rescue".
2) Puppy Mills are all over this country, tragically, and are absolute HELL ON EARTH for these animals. The puppy mill "breeders" have female (bitches) whom they breed repeatedly until their bodies fall apart. Literally. The female dogs are bred every single heat cycle from their first heat cycle (typically around age 6-8 months) until their vulva and uterus hang out of their rectum. Becuase puppy mill people are white-trash pieces of shit, they also do their best to make sure the animals (both females and males - "studs") are comfortable, living in cages so tiny they cannot stand up, which means their muscles atrophy and usually when a puppy mill is "busted" the animals have completely lost use of these legs, oftentimes have to have them amputated. They live in their own feces and urine, cage upon cage upon wire cage of hell. Now, for the idiots out there who STILL want a dog from a breeder or a pet store (pet stores get ALL their dogs from Puppy mills, and anyone purchasing from a Breeder has NO WAY to ensure it is NOT a puppy mill) need to know that siblings are being bred with siblings and parents are being bred with offspring and if just being an ethical, humane human being isn't reason enough to NOT go to a breeder or puppy mill, maybe the proceeding vet bills will be?
3) Pitbulls are my passion. They are my passion because they are misunderstood. I love all dogs. ALL. I had a Rottweiler, and that was my first taste of the "Bully Breeds". PROVEN FACT: pitbulls are, genetically and trait characteristically, the best dogs with small children, one of the most intelligent breeds, one of the most loyal breeds, and one of the LEAST AGGRESSIVE BREEDS. Now, the reason we hear about pitbull bites' and attacks is because their jaws are genetically stronger (because of the bloodlines and the jackasses who have been breeding them) so WHEN a pitbull DOES bite, it can be fatal. However, Jack Russell Terriers, Chihuahuas and Cocker Spaniels are MORE apt to attack and/or bite!! Pitbulls have been banned in every area of the Greater KC area except for KCMO. Which, is where I live. There are 5 points (characteristics and/or traits) in determining if a mix-breed has pitbull, and you cannot have a dog that meets any of these traits in Leawood, Joco, Gladstone, Olathe, Liberty, and I'm sure many others that I am forgetting. IF you live in KCMO you may have a pit or pit-mix as long as the dog is altered (spayed or neutered). The ignorance of, and education level of, and, apparent empathy level of, the morons who fight and abuse bully breeds, are directly related to the reason these pathetic individuals own, breed, fight, use, abuse, neglect, starve and murder bully breeds. Yes, it is an education issue. Yes, it is a cultural issue. I have worked with animal rescue and pitbull rescue for years and the fighting rings are either found in trailer parks or in the ghetto. Starving, emaciated, abused and dumped dogs are found in the ghetto. This is not a race issue - this is a poverty and education and cultural issue. Now, there was a dog-fighting ring that was broken up in Johnson County last year. And, there is an exception to every rule.
4) Why even have a dog if you are going to chain it up, outside, in freezing cold ice and rain, blistering heat, and tornadoes? Why? Why chain a dog up outside? Dogs are companion animals, they're meant to be a part of your family, in your house. I throw up in my mouth a little every time I hear someone say "oh he is too big to be in the house" then WHY THE FUCK DID YOU GET A BIG DOG??? There are enough intelligent people out there who realize you shouldn't discriminate and small dog, big dog, black dog, white dog, drooling dog, prissy dog, whatever the dog they all deserve to be inside, party-of-the-family dogs!! WE - human beings - domesticated wolves into dogs therefore it is our RESPONSIBILITY to take care of them!!!
I was at the Penn Valley Dog Park today and was approached by a really nice gentleman who had a 'mix' puppy. He complemented Stella's coat. Stella is my pit-mix. Let me rephrase, Stella is my nearly 90-lb thinks she is a lap dog pit mix. He complemented her coat and her demeanor. He then overheard me call her Stella and said "I know another American Staffordshire Terrier named Stella." The man, being politically correct as, there really is no such breed as a pitbull, they're called American Staffordshire Terriers... was very sweet, and very complementary which, we all know is the way to my heart when you complement my dogs:) He proceeded to tell me the other Stella he knew was a pure-bred pitbull his friend has spent thousands of dollars on. I didn't get on my soapbox, don't worry.
I'm just going to throw one more statistic out there for you before I move onto my next activity - of the 10,000 dogs that were euthanized at KC Animal Control last year (2007) more than 3500 were pitbull mixes. There are hundreds of breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club and more than 35% of 10,000 dogs euthanized WERE ONE OF THESE BREEDS.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Censorship, Memories and The Hot Dentist...
Carrie Bradshaw somehow did it so that no one was offended, no one assumed she was talking about them. So, can I do it? I realize one can google my name (smart one Sarah - having my IP address be my full name. By smart, I mean retarded) and read pretty much everything about the inner-workings of my life; my dating, my family, friends, dogs, shelter work, job at firm, etc. etc. etc. So, I ask myself, "do I censor?" Clearly I will not censor however I do have to be cognizant of people's feelings. However, this blog is actually read by people who actually really enjoy it real strangers who enjoy it so, I think it only be keeping true to myself and my readers to not censor. And put myself out there. Although, I vow to myself and my friends and family this blog will not become my way of communicating and confronting issues we have; those I vow to communicate directly.
This morning as I was laying in bed in the midst of 12 legs, 12 paws, 3 lapping tongues and a few Chewbacca noises it occured to me how precious memories are. Tyler was all snuggled up to me and I closed my eyes and prayed I would never forget that moment. That, when he is gone, I will remember the way his fur felt, the way he smelled, the way he nudged me, the noises he makes, the way his chest moved up and down when he breathed. I can't remember what Misha smelled like. I can't remember what she sounded like, I can barely remember what she felt like. I can however remember how she looked at me with her beautiful brown doe eyes. She was so gorgeous. I went to dinner last night with M, we sat outside, the weather was perfect probably 65 and overcast, and there was a little 2-man keyboard/drum duo playing, then a woman with a gorgeous voice, Millie, would sing. I just sat there thinking, chances are this wont work out but I always want to remember this moment. Then I felt his hand on my leg and just smiled. Memories.
Earlier today I took the dogs to Penn Valley. Stella wouldn't leave my side, Tyler keep running up to much larger, un-nuetered males, all puffed up, and Max had to mark absolutely every blade of grass. And dog. I dont want to forget that either. The weather was (again) perfect, the dogs were happy, I was happy, great conversation with other dog-lovers (and there were very few who were obviously from breeders!) and the Roasterie even donated coffee. It was such a perfect morning!
Tommy and Bibi and my little Peanut Head came over last night. I told them this following story and I can honestly say I have not seen them laugh this hard. Ever. So, thought I'd blog the following story...Last Thursday morning I had a dentist appt. At 7am. Yes, nice f-ing way to begin your day, huh? Well for anyone who knows me you know I am completely OCD about my teeth (and house!) I bleach, brush, floss, etc. so I didn't anticipate anything would come out of the check-up besides extremely white and clean teeth. Well it was a new dental office - up north, with my new insurance from the firm. I was wearing my little Ann Taylor "June Cleaver" dress with black heels however it was TORRENTIAL DOWNPOUR outside so I wore my flip-flops to get to and from the car. I walked in, and two women, Mary and Cammie, were at the front desk. It was 6:50am. I was the first person they'd seen that morning. I walked in, shook the rain off my umbrella, checked-in, and sat down. At this point, the front door opens and in walks Dr. McDreamy in his scrubs. I assumed this would be the only glimpse of him I would get, as everyone knows the hygenist cleans your teeth, and since I wouldn't have any issues, I wouldn't need to see the Dentist. So Courtney the cute hygenist, calls me into the room. I lay down, open my mouth, she compliments my teeth and my smile, proceeds to ask me 'yes' and 'no' questions while she violates my mouth, and takes the standard "bite-wing" xrays. Then I hear "You about ready for me Courtney?" and she says "Yes Dr. T" Well of course, at this point I can't see anything but the ceiling...then I felt him sit next to me, and he extended his hand and introduced himself, as CT (of course you know I wont give you his name) BUT point is he introduced himself on a first-name basis. The hygenist called him Dr. but, apparently I could call him C. So, C proceeds to compliment my teeth, look at the xrays, and tell me I have a very tiny cavity. I froze. I HATE NEEDLES. I HATE PAIN. I HATE DRILLS. AND I HATE CAVITIES. But mostly, at this point I was hating MCDREAMY. He also pointed out a teeny tiny little itty bitty chip that I have. He asked how it happened. Instead of telling him it was a drunken episode when I face-planted on my front step, I mumbled something about one of my dogs. He acted very interested and immediately wanted to know what kind of dogs, etc. Of course, I didn't mention I had 3. Nor that one was of the pitbull lineage. Now, back to the cavity. ..I immediately started panicking and shaking, and asked if I had to have it taken care of today. He smiled and placed his hand on my shoulder and said, "no, but you should." I started crying. YES I AM SPECIAL. Well, not really CRYING like sobbing, but tears were definitely streaming down my face. He was so concerned, and most likely shocked that I was a 33 year-old woman crying and panicked because of a cavity. He assured me it wouldn't hurt, he could give me a shot that wouldn't hurt. Then I really started panicking. "Ok, I will give you a topical so you wont even feel the needle, I promise, I am very good at giving shots." hee. hee. Mind in gutter. Okay, that is fine. So I made the appointment for 2 weeks away which, gives me 2 weeks to have a panic attack. I asked the receptionist if I would be able to go to work the next day and she looked at me like I had 3 heads. In addition to reassuring me that he would make my experience painless, C also told me he would file the chip in my perfect teeth. Ahh....my own McDreamy.
It's Saturday afternoon, I'm sitting on my big cushy chair with Stella - who is taking up 3/4 of the chair. Good thing I'm small, its lightly drizzling out. What a perfect day.
This morning as I was laying in bed in the midst of 12 legs, 12 paws, 3 lapping tongues and a few Chewbacca noises it occured to me how precious memories are. Tyler was all snuggled up to me and I closed my eyes and prayed I would never forget that moment. That, when he is gone, I will remember the way his fur felt, the way he smelled, the way he nudged me, the noises he makes, the way his chest moved up and down when he breathed. I can't remember what Misha smelled like. I can't remember what she sounded like, I can barely remember what she felt like. I can however remember how she looked at me with her beautiful brown doe eyes. She was so gorgeous. I went to dinner last night with M, we sat outside, the weather was perfect probably 65 and overcast, and there was a little 2-man keyboard/drum duo playing, then a woman with a gorgeous voice, Millie, would sing. I just sat there thinking, chances are this wont work out but I always want to remember this moment. Then I felt his hand on my leg and just smiled. Memories.
Earlier today I took the dogs to Penn Valley. Stella wouldn't leave my side, Tyler keep running up to much larger, un-nuetered males, all puffed up, and Max had to mark absolutely every blade of grass. And dog. I dont want to forget that either. The weather was (again) perfect, the dogs were happy, I was happy, great conversation with other dog-lovers (and there were very few who were obviously from breeders!) and the Roasterie even donated coffee. It was such a perfect morning!
Tommy and Bibi and my little Peanut Head came over last night. I told them this following story and I can honestly say I have not seen them laugh this hard. Ever. So, thought I'd blog the following story...Last Thursday morning I had a dentist appt. At 7am. Yes, nice f-ing way to begin your day, huh? Well for anyone who knows me you know I am completely OCD about my teeth (and house!) I bleach, brush, floss, etc. so I didn't anticipate anything would come out of the check-up besides extremely white and clean teeth. Well it was a new dental office - up north, with my new insurance from the firm. I was wearing my little Ann Taylor "June Cleaver" dress with black heels however it was TORRENTIAL DOWNPOUR outside so I wore my flip-flops to get to and from the car. I walked in, and two women, Mary and Cammie, were at the front desk. It was 6:50am. I was the first person they'd seen that morning. I walked in, shook the rain off my umbrella, checked-in, and sat down. At this point, the front door opens and in walks Dr. McDreamy in his scrubs. I assumed this would be the only glimpse of him I would get, as everyone knows the hygenist cleans your teeth, and since I wouldn't have any issues, I wouldn't need to see the Dentist. So Courtney the cute hygenist, calls me into the room. I lay down, open my mouth, she compliments my teeth and my smile, proceeds to ask me 'yes' and 'no' questions while she violates my mouth, and takes the standard "bite-wing" xrays. Then I hear "You about ready for me Courtney?" and she says "Yes Dr. T" Well of course, at this point I can't see anything but the ceiling...then I felt him sit next to me, and he extended his hand and introduced himself, as CT (of course you know I wont give you his name) BUT point is he introduced himself on a first-name basis. The hygenist called him Dr. but, apparently I could call him C. So, C proceeds to compliment my teeth, look at the xrays, and tell me I have a very tiny cavity. I froze. I HATE NEEDLES. I HATE PAIN. I HATE DRILLS. AND I HATE CAVITIES. But mostly, at this point I was hating MCDREAMY. He also pointed out a teeny tiny little itty bitty chip that I have. He asked how it happened. Instead of telling him it was a drunken episode when I face-planted on my front step, I mumbled something about one of my dogs. He acted very interested and immediately wanted to know what kind of dogs, etc. Of course, I didn't mention I had 3. Nor that one was of the pitbull lineage. Now, back to the cavity. ..I immediately started panicking and shaking, and asked if I had to have it taken care of today. He smiled and placed his hand on my shoulder and said, "no, but you should." I started crying. YES I AM SPECIAL. Well, not really CRYING like sobbing, but tears were definitely streaming down my face. He was so concerned, and most likely shocked that I was a 33 year-old woman crying and panicked because of a cavity. He assured me it wouldn't hurt, he could give me a shot that wouldn't hurt. Then I really started panicking. "Ok, I will give you a topical so you wont even feel the needle, I promise, I am very good at giving shots." hee. hee. Mind in gutter. Okay, that is fine. So I made the appointment for 2 weeks away which, gives me 2 weeks to have a panic attack. I asked the receptionist if I would be able to go to work the next day and she looked at me like I had 3 heads. In addition to reassuring me that he would make my experience painless, C also told me he would file the chip in my perfect teeth. Ahh....my own McDreamy.
It's Saturday afternoon, I'm sitting on my big cushy chair with Stella - who is taking up 3/4 of the chair. Good thing I'm small, its lightly drizzling out. What a perfect day.
Friday, September 5, 2008
Starbucks
I love Starbucks. And, as of late I have had more memorable experiences there; M and I meet there quite often for coffee. It's nice to see someone I care for, and someone who gives me butterflies, in the middle of the day.
Things that are new since my last post which was in 2002: Family drama - LOTS of family drama. I hate it. hate it. makes me so sad. I will most likely blog about it just not now. Lauren is wonderful, dogs are fabulous, love my job. Just went back to CR last weekend (Labor Day) stayed one night with Dad and one night at Mom and Gary's. Took Ty with me; such good alone-time for him and me. I have a feeling I dont have much time left with him and the thought breaks my heart. Mom and I went to Ellis and downtown and Czech Village to observe the Flood 2008 devastation. I was very teary. Broke my heart. My old hangouts; bars, restaurants, coffee shops, Dad's office...all completely gutted, ruined.
I recently saw the movie "What Happens in Vegas" and Ashton's character doesn't want to gamble because he doesnt want to lose...and he doesn't believe in himself. Cameron's character spends her entire life and all her energy being the person everyone else wants and thinks her to be. I know, crazy that I am identifying with such a comedic parody however I really did...relate. I have never wanted a relationship to work because I was scared of getting hurt. I always sabotage them in the early stages, usually when I feel myself falling, so it doesnt get any more serious. And for a long time there (in my 20s) I remember that horribly lonely feeling of having no idea who I really was because I was so busy concentrating and working on being the perfect daughter, employee, friend, party-buddy, girlfriend, sister, etc. etc. etc. Looking back on it, it was very exhausting.
Now, I am happier than ever because I know exactly who I am. And if 'they' don't like it, fuck 'em!
Random thought - M doesnt seem entirely interested in me or my passions. We seem to talk about him, his son, his family, his ex (ug...another whole bag of worms) his house, etc., I dont know if it is that because he really isn't interested or because he has a different way of showing that he is...maybe he just doesn't pry? I feel like I know way more than I cared to know about his marriage, his ex-wife, his past relationships, dating, etc. and he really hasn't shown an interest in knowing my past experiences or where I am coming from. Granted, the "ex" factor is never fun however I do think it important if one cares to understand where the other is coming from. For example, my fear of being lied to - not cheated on - but lied to and betrayed... oh yeah - another thing, we haven't had the "alcohol" discussion. He knows I dont drink but pretty much hasn't pried. So, shouldn't that be a good thing? I mean, i dont really want to talk about it anyway but maybe i see it as a lack of interest?
Signing off for now....
Things that are new since my last post which was in 2002: Family drama - LOTS of family drama. I hate it. hate it. makes me so sad. I will most likely blog about it just not now. Lauren is wonderful, dogs are fabulous, love my job. Just went back to CR last weekend (Labor Day) stayed one night with Dad and one night at Mom and Gary's. Took Ty with me; such good alone-time for him and me. I have a feeling I dont have much time left with him and the thought breaks my heart. Mom and I went to Ellis and downtown and Czech Village to observe the Flood 2008 devastation. I was very teary. Broke my heart. My old hangouts; bars, restaurants, coffee shops, Dad's office...all completely gutted, ruined.
I recently saw the movie "What Happens in Vegas" and Ashton's character doesn't want to gamble because he doesnt want to lose...and he doesn't believe in himself. Cameron's character spends her entire life and all her energy being the person everyone else wants and thinks her to be. I know, crazy that I am identifying with such a comedic parody however I really did...relate. I have never wanted a relationship to work because I was scared of getting hurt. I always sabotage them in the early stages, usually when I feel myself falling, so it doesnt get any more serious. And for a long time there (in my 20s) I remember that horribly lonely feeling of having no idea who I really was because I was so busy concentrating and working on being the perfect daughter, employee, friend, party-buddy, girlfriend, sister, etc. etc. etc. Looking back on it, it was very exhausting.
Now, I am happier than ever because I know exactly who I am. And if 'they' don't like it, fuck 'em!
Random thought - M doesnt seem entirely interested in me or my passions. We seem to talk about him, his son, his family, his ex (ug...another whole bag of worms) his house, etc., I dont know if it is that because he really isn't interested or because he has a different way of showing that he is...maybe he just doesn't pry? I feel like I know way more than I cared to know about his marriage, his ex-wife, his past relationships, dating, etc. and he really hasn't shown an interest in knowing my past experiences or where I am coming from. Granted, the "ex" factor is never fun however I do think it important if one cares to understand where the other is coming from. For example, my fear of being lied to - not cheated on - but lied to and betrayed... oh yeah - another thing, we haven't had the "alcohol" discussion. He knows I dont drink but pretty much hasn't pried. So, shouldn't that be a good thing? I mean, i dont really want to talk about it anyway but maybe i see it as a lack of interest?
Signing off for now....
Monday, August 18, 2008
Dating Diaries #2
I was feeling sorry for myself; watching tv, eating ice cream out of the container, my dogs in the "sit" position staring at me cocking their heads from side to side, when I get a text from M (single dad, think I kinda like him, etc.) He says "How are you doing?" I waited quite some time to respond - not because I play headgames but because I didn't know what to say. My defense mechanisms are so strong lately that honestly my first response to the weekend's events (Or, lack of events) is to just call it quits where we are. That's how I won't get hurt, right? Basically the text messages go back and forth:
"How are you doing?"
"Good, how are you?"
"Good, just leaving the office. was _______ all day" (privacy issues folks, you understand)
"I was under the impression we had plans tonight..."
"I knew we had talked about it but didn't know we had confirmed. I'm sorry. It's been a crazy busy weekend with ____."
This is where I laid out all the cards..."I have had my heartbroken and in both situations, the red flags were inconsistencies. My defense mechanisms are telling me to call it as I see it" (or something to that effect)
Long story short (too late!) he likes me, he wants to see where this can go...blah blah blah. So, I will see where it can go, knowing full-well that Aaron, Jason the Dentist and Tony all showed inconsistencies in the beginning and all ended in heart break of some sort. Not to mention the fact that when I am 'dating' someone and not interested, I am all about being inconsistent!
He is traveling for work this week. I wont get my hopes up but maybe we will see each other this weekend. Lauren's boyfriend is in town this weekend, I would like to give them some space and privacy. :) And, I have ulterior motives.
Kids are wonderful; Tyler is still all "puffed up" from Agility class yesterday. I love that little bug so much. Mom says I need to actually write a letter to Misha; hence the title of my blog. We will see. I started a memoir of sorts, in memory (is that redundant?) of her, and can't go back to it without crying. In fact, when we were in the Ozarks, mom and I were sitting in the living room (with...our view of the lake, Uh huh, that's the way we roll) talking about how to write a memoir, I pulled up my laptop and actually started reading her some of what I have begun for Misha and couldn't finish the sentence I started. Very difficult to deal with still.
So, I'm pretty much inundated with training for my new position. There is so much to learn. It's difficult to stay focused sometimes. I realize I am so blessed to be at a company I love, with people I love and doing something that challenges me.
Sarah H called me last night - someone had heartlessly dumped a kitten in her neighborhood. She wanted me to find a home for it. Thank GOD I am allergic to cats. I put my feelers out there but she ended up finding a home for it herself! Yay!! Another one to a good home! Makes me very sad for the rest of the litter, and the heartless and cruel people who own the mother. Wonder what kind of life she is living that the people see her offspring as disposable.
Ooooh yeah - went to Tommy and Bibi's Friday night for a SCRUMPTUOUS dinner. I love being close to them. I love that we are so chill; our relationship is so mellow. Tommy called as I was walking to the bus stop after work and extended the invitation to have dinner with them. I learned Lauren would be home that evening (certainly dont want the kids going all day AND all night without someone home), went over there around 7 and stayed for several hours. Dinner was yummy, conversation was chill and funny, and Grace is SO FUCKING GORGEOUS I LOVE HER SOOOO MUCH. I was sitting on the love seat, Grace pulled her little peanut butt up there, straddled me, looked at me, and laid her head on me. I will cherish that moment forever.
Thanks for reading.
"How are you doing?"
"Good, how are you?"
"Good, just leaving the office. was _______ all day" (privacy issues folks, you understand)
"I was under the impression we had plans tonight..."
"I knew we had talked about it but didn't know we had confirmed. I'm sorry. It's been a crazy busy weekend with ____."
This is where I laid out all the cards..."I have had my heartbroken and in both situations, the red flags were inconsistencies. My defense mechanisms are telling me to call it as I see it" (or something to that effect)
Long story short (too late!) he likes me, he wants to see where this can go...blah blah blah. So, I will see where it can go, knowing full-well that Aaron, Jason the Dentist and Tony all showed inconsistencies in the beginning and all ended in heart break of some sort. Not to mention the fact that when I am 'dating' someone and not interested, I am all about being inconsistent!
He is traveling for work this week. I wont get my hopes up but maybe we will see each other this weekend. Lauren's boyfriend is in town this weekend, I would like to give them some space and privacy. :) And, I have ulterior motives.
Kids are wonderful; Tyler is still all "puffed up" from Agility class yesterday. I love that little bug so much. Mom says I need to actually write a letter to Misha; hence the title of my blog. We will see. I started a memoir of sorts, in memory (is that redundant?) of her, and can't go back to it without crying. In fact, when we were in the Ozarks, mom and I were sitting in the living room (with...our view of the lake, Uh huh, that's the way we roll) talking about how to write a memoir, I pulled up my laptop and actually started reading her some of what I have begun for Misha and couldn't finish the sentence I started. Very difficult to deal with still.
So, I'm pretty much inundated with training for my new position. There is so much to learn. It's difficult to stay focused sometimes. I realize I am so blessed to be at a company I love, with people I love and doing something that challenges me.
Sarah H called me last night - someone had heartlessly dumped a kitten in her neighborhood. She wanted me to find a home for it. Thank GOD I am allergic to cats. I put my feelers out there but she ended up finding a home for it herself! Yay!! Another one to a good home! Makes me very sad for the rest of the litter, and the heartless and cruel people who own the mother. Wonder what kind of life she is living that the people see her offspring as disposable.
Ooooh yeah - went to Tommy and Bibi's Friday night for a SCRUMPTUOUS dinner. I love being close to them. I love that we are so chill; our relationship is so mellow. Tommy called as I was walking to the bus stop after work and extended the invitation to have dinner with them. I learned Lauren would be home that evening (certainly dont want the kids going all day AND all night without someone home), went over there around 7 and stayed for several hours. Dinner was yummy, conversation was chill and funny, and Grace is SO FUCKING GORGEOUS I LOVE HER SOOOO MUCH. I was sitting on the love seat, Grace pulled her little peanut butt up there, straddled me, looked at me, and laid her head on me. I will cherish that moment forever.
Thanks for reading.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Dating Diaries
I told CD on Friday that I didn't want to see him anymore. I told him it wasn't a good time for me to date. I anticipated things working out (for awhile at least) with M. Well, I guess what goes around comes around - I honestly feel I have had so much "comes around" the rest of my life should be "goes around". Last week was so very odd; when it rains it pours. When you stop looking, potential suitors come out of the workwork. T - back from a month ago, emailed me he was sorry, blah blah blah. Another random "will you have lunch with me" email, and things starting to heat up with M, the single father. Well, he sends me texts and emails that he really likes me, can't stop thinking about me, etc. but is pretty inconsistent when it comes to actually walking the walk. I've been there-done that - and am not in the mood for it again. That is for sure. We were supposed to see each other tonight - here it is 6:00pm and I haven't heard from him. Of course, when he does call he can just talk to my voicemail. Is it really too difficult to be in a relationship with someone who has a child?
In addition to all this, I started my new position at work. I LOVE IT. I love the new team I am working with; the women are all so great and positive. Such a change from before. Although it is very bittersweet as I never talk with my old crew anymore. In fact, relations are very strained between me and one of my old crew members. She was always the "mean girl" but since I was on "her side" I never felt the wrath. Now, it's like Dr. Jeckyl and Mr. Hyde. Honestly, I am too fucking old for these games. You treat me like shit once, it's pretty much over. Sucks though, because I really do miss her. She was a good friend. Its not like it can even be chalked off to a "miscommunication" because it wasn't at all. Really, really unfortunate. We have a few things in common; places of interest, and we work together so its not like I wont see her but its just really unfortunate we can't at least be cordial to each other. I wont kiss anyone's ass - especially the mean girl's.
AND I googled my name and realized this blog comes up so I need to give that some thought as well. I will not begin censoring however I do realize that anyone can read my blog.
Okay well, I'm going to feed the kids now. Thanks for reading.
In addition to all this, I started my new position at work. I LOVE IT. I love the new team I am working with; the women are all so great and positive. Such a change from before. Although it is very bittersweet as I never talk with my old crew anymore. In fact, relations are very strained between me and one of my old crew members. She was always the "mean girl" but since I was on "her side" I never felt the wrath. Now, it's like Dr. Jeckyl and Mr. Hyde. Honestly, I am too fucking old for these games. You treat me like shit once, it's pretty much over. Sucks though, because I really do miss her. She was a good friend. Its not like it can even be chalked off to a "miscommunication" because it wasn't at all. Really, really unfortunate. We have a few things in common; places of interest, and we work together so its not like I wont see her but its just really unfortunate we can't at least be cordial to each other. I wont kiss anyone's ass - especially the mean girl's.
AND I googled my name and realized this blog comes up so I need to give that some thought as well. I will not begin censoring however I do realize that anyone can read my blog.
Okay well, I'm going to feed the kids now. Thanks for reading.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Not Retiring From the Blogging Business....
So I got an email from my brother that said "Out of the Blog Business already?" Smart ass. No, I am not. I missed it too! Between my last post and this, so much has happened I dont even know where to start? Sister flew into town, family vacation (DRAMA) lots of sun, napping (smiley face!) missed the dogs, Lauren took such good care of them, missed Misha quite a bit, lots of memories of Aaron the Dbag because he was there last summer. Getting over fear of water, went jet-skiing (DROVE the jet ski!) amy proud of me, slept in teeny-tiny twin bed while the "marrieds" got the SUITE!! Cooked fajitas, Amy should open a 'pretty-food-on-the-plate' restaurant, actually read a book (well, 3/4 of it) talked to several of my "flavors" via text and email while on vacation, thought I liked one - CD - met him when I got back, liked him but not for me. Met another of my flavors earlier this week - really like him although he is divorced and has a son which is fine and i'm learning that maybe my 'type' is not the 'type' i need at all and the divorced fathers out there are mature, Loving, caring, faithful, and supportive and that is what i need...anyway I dont know if i can handle the drama that goes along with a divorce and child custody i mean, i could never see or talk to Aaron again - and I certainly couldn't have him calling me or picking up someTHING from my house every week. I just dont know. Plus, we all talk about what is most important to us; I talk about my family and my dogs and my job. Hence, if you have a child you're going to talk about the child a lot, in turn discussing the "ex-factor" quite a bit as well.
Way too much to say about it and I have to get going for now but...I know we all have "baggage" (not that a child is baggage but the ex-factor certainly is) never mind the fact that I had my heart broken so viciously by someone who clearly wasn't over their ex- so, what's to say my flavor - M- is over his son's mother?
We'll chat later:)
Way too much to say about it and I have to get going for now but...I know we all have "baggage" (not that a child is baggage but the ex-factor certainly is) never mind the fact that I had my heart broken so viciously by someone who clearly wasn't over their ex- so, what's to say my flavor - M- is over his son's mother?
We'll chat later:)
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Article I Wrote For My Firm's Intranet...
Woodlands Closing to Affect 600+ Greyhounds
by Sarah Estlund
The Woodlands Racetrack in Kansas City is closing August 24th. The Kansas City chapter of REGAP (Retired Greyhounds as Pets) has reported there are between 600 and 900 Greyhounds at the track whom will be homeless. Greyhound rescue estimates they will be able to get 200 into the rescue network, meanwhile, the remaining 400-700 will be 'returned' to the breeders and likely put-to-sleep. RECAP needs as much help as they can in obtaining fosters, adoptions, and transports. Transports would be volunteers willing to drive dogs to various rescues in the Midwest, or adoptive homes. PLEASE contact them if you can help and forward to friends you know who may be able to help, as well. Kansas City REGAP can be reached at 816-763-3333. www.rescuedgreyhounds.com You can also contact Pups without Partners 913-299-9797 x427 http://pups-without-partners.org/.
Not sure if rescuing a Greyhound is for you?
The Greyhound Personality
It is a common misconception that greyhounds are hyperactive and that they need a lot of exercise. Nothing could be further from the truth! Most greyhounds are gentle couch potatoes that need a few walks and one or two runs in an enclosed area each week. As with any breed, younger dogs need more exercise than older dogs.
The Greyhound History
Greyhounds are the oldest breed of dog. They are sighthounds. For more than 5,000 years, they have been bred to chase. They can run at speeds of up to 45 mph.
Greyhounds must always be on leash
Since Greyhounds were bred to chase, this means they might go after a piece of litter in the wind and find themselves in front of a car before you or the driver has reacted. No matter how well trained your dog is, nothing is as strong as mother nature. Automobiles are the second-leading cause of premature greyhound deaths. So, as always, use your best judgment and keep your precious greyhound on a leash at all times!
Greyhounds and your backyard
Greyhounds should not be left unattended in a yard, particularly if the fence is six feet or less. They are incredible jumpers.
Greyhounds and the elements
They are also very thin skinned and should not be exposed to the elements (heat or cold). Greyhounds have half the body fat of other breeds and are more sensitive to the cold.
Greyhounds and kids
Most greyhounds are very tolerant of small children. As with any dog, children should be supervised and should not be permitted to abuse the dog. Normally a greyhound that is being abused will walk away. In rare instances they have been known to snap at the child.
Greyhounds and cats
Most greyhounds are fine with cats. Be sure the adoption agency knows you have cats. They will be happy to introduce you to cat-friendly dogs. As a precaution, the greyhound should be muzzled for the first few days he's home. Once he realizes the cats are part of the family, there should be no trouble. Many greyhounds are actually afraid of cats.
Greyhounds and muzzles
When you see greyhounds together at the track, they are always muzzled. There are a couple of reasons for this. When they are actually running, they are very competitive and will sometimes nip at another dog's neck. With their thin skin, this can run up vet bills.As with all dogs, greys are pack animals. Many people feel that due to their long history their pack instinct is stronger than most other dogs. Pack behavior also requires weeding out of injured dogs that may compromise the safety of the pack as a whole. If a dog somehow becomes injured, it is possible the other dogs will turn on it. Again, this is not unique to greyhounds. But with their thin skin, muzzles are mandatory when more than two dogs are together.
Greyhounds and shedding
While it's not true that greyhounds don't shed at all, most of them don't shed much. Their fur is very short. Unless they get into something, they can be bathed as little as two or three times a year.
Greyhounds and allergies
Most people that are allergic to dogs are fine with greyhounds and a few other breeds.
Additional considerations
Greyhounds are extremely sensitive to stress and can end up literally sick to their stomachs, with severe digestive upsets and neurotic behaviors, if the people in their home are having family problems. Sighthounds are peaceful, sensitive dogs who need a peaceful, harmonious home.Housebreaking- Some ex-racing dogs are easily housebroken, while others learn much more slowly. Health problems- Greyhounds are extremely prone to a life-threatening digestive syndrome called bloat. In addition, an alarming number of Greyhounds die early of cancer.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Beginning of the week
The weekend was fabulous, and the week (all 24 hours of it) have been wonderful so far. The latter part of my weekend consisted of boating with friends Saturday afternoon, hanging with Tommy, Bibi and Peanut Saturday night, laying by the pool Sunday with Lauren and her friend Candace...
Now we're into Tuesday and the first part of the week has been great! I had a date last night, which went very well. It was really good to see him; he has been gone for awhile on a family vacation and it was well worth the wait. I hope to see him again, soon.
So, a few stories from the weekend. Saturday morning I woke up, read the paper, cleaned, gave the dogs some love, and headed down to Lees Summit. I met up with everyone at Jessi and Chad's house and then we headed to Lakewood Lake. Or something like that, I keep forgetting what its called. But it was beautiful and supposedly Mike Sweeney owns a home on the lake and everything. We hung out on the pontoon boat all afternoon. Music, beers, cigarettes, music, good times! Then there was this one girl. We'll call her....WT. WT was pretty much the most socially retarded person I have ever hung out with. She flicked ashes on their leather seats, proceeded to ask Jessi to wait on her hand and foot (Jessi being the host) and made rude comments. At one point, as WT was laying in the water on Jessi's floaty, WT said "Hey you- light me a cigarette, will you? And hand me a beer, this one's warm." 1) "Hey you" was Jessi. The host. The person who's boat WT WAS ON for the day. 2) WT didn't buy anything for the day - Jessi bought everything; including all the beer. So, is that really acceptable to discard one because its warm when you didn't even contribute? 3) I just wanted a number 3.
At one point we were all sitting in the boat, looking for a cove to go to, and WT turned to me (in front of everyone) and exclaimed, "RED BULL!?!? WTF???" Thank goodness I had my sunglasses on so she couldn't see the daggers I was shooting her way. Another girl, said "uh, WT, she doesnt drink" (First of all, is it THAT FUCKING ODD to not have a beer in my hand at 11:00am on a Saturday? I mean, granted it is drinking time somewhere but c'mon it isn't that odd!)
WT: "you dont drink??? WHY?!?"
Me: "I drank for 10 years, got it out of my system, no biggie."
WT: "I've drank for 10 years too, should I quit drinking???"
Me: "Well, if this is how you act when you DO drink maybe you should consider it!"
At that point I realized it was really a good thing I HAD quit drinking otherwise I would've had to kick her ass, and by that I mean I would've wrestled with her but since she was twice my size she would've put one boob on me and suffocated me. Either that, or I may have slipped on the make-up that was caked onto her leathery skin and hit my head on the side of the boat and since silicon floats she wouldn't have been able to drown with me.
Wow, what a judger I am today!
So, that was Saturday. Saturday evening I called Tommy around 6:45. I was supposed to go to a party that night, and I could've gone to Power & Light with Lauren and her friends, but I really wanted to relax at home. I called Tommy and he invited me down to have dinner with them. Of course, since I had already driven to Lees Summit that day I couldn't afford to drive to Raytown without second-mortgaging my home. So, I whined and pouted a little and next thing I know, they're bringing Peanut AND dinner up to me! It was perfect. We just chillaxed until 10:30 or so then I went to bed. Oh wait - We ALSO did my budget. I am so excited to start this. It's not like I am in dire straights or anything, especially considering we're near an economic depression or, are we technically IN an economic depression? Recession, depression, whatever it is scary regardless. I have a strict budget until October which is when I just basically start working toward my savings. I'm excited!
Sunday morning I went to the grocery store. I 'budgeted' what I would allow myself to spend and stuck to it. Yay! Lauren and Candace came home around noon; they'd already begun their Sunday morning with bloody marys! We went to a pool for the afternoon it was a BEAUTIFUL pool. So gorgeous. We all got quite a bit of sun!
I am looking forward to my family vacation which is this next week. My sister flies in Saturday morning - I think we're going boating with friends again. We leave Sunday morning for the Ozarks. Everyone is staying until the following Saturday. I have opted to come back Thursday night (although this isn't yet set in stone) due to the fact I am not comfortable taking an entire week off of work at this point. And...I don't want to leave Lauren with the dogs for more than 5 nights which, I think 5 is a lot anyway. We'll see. I am still contemplating. The girls at work think I would be crazy to come in and work Friday. But, I see it as an opportunity to come in for a totally relaxed Friday, catch up on emails, put out any fires, and enjoy Saturday and Sunday!
Thanks for reading.
Now we're into Tuesday and the first part of the week has been great! I had a date last night, which went very well. It was really good to see him; he has been gone for awhile on a family vacation and it was well worth the wait. I hope to see him again, soon.
So, a few stories from the weekend. Saturday morning I woke up, read the paper, cleaned, gave the dogs some love, and headed down to Lees Summit. I met up with everyone at Jessi and Chad's house and then we headed to Lakewood Lake. Or something like that, I keep forgetting what its called. But it was beautiful and supposedly Mike Sweeney owns a home on the lake and everything. We hung out on the pontoon boat all afternoon. Music, beers, cigarettes, music, good times! Then there was this one girl. We'll call her....WT. WT was pretty much the most socially retarded person I have ever hung out with. She flicked ashes on their leather seats, proceeded to ask Jessi to wait on her hand and foot (Jessi being the host) and made rude comments. At one point, as WT was laying in the water on Jessi's floaty, WT said "Hey you- light me a cigarette, will you? And hand me a beer, this one's warm." 1) "Hey you" was Jessi. The host. The person who's boat WT WAS ON for the day. 2) WT didn't buy anything for the day - Jessi bought everything; including all the beer. So, is that really acceptable to discard one because its warm when you didn't even contribute? 3) I just wanted a number 3.
At one point we were all sitting in the boat, looking for a cove to go to, and WT turned to me (in front of everyone) and exclaimed, "RED BULL!?!? WTF???" Thank goodness I had my sunglasses on so she couldn't see the daggers I was shooting her way. Another girl, said "uh, WT, she doesnt drink" (First of all, is it THAT FUCKING ODD to not have a beer in my hand at 11:00am on a Saturday? I mean, granted it is drinking time somewhere but c'mon it isn't that odd!)
WT: "you dont drink??? WHY?!?"
Me: "I drank for 10 years, got it out of my system, no biggie."
WT: "I've drank for 10 years too, should I quit drinking???"
Me: "Well, if this is how you act when you DO drink maybe you should consider it!"
At that point I realized it was really a good thing I HAD quit drinking otherwise I would've had to kick her ass, and by that I mean I would've wrestled with her but since she was twice my size she would've put one boob on me and suffocated me. Either that, or I may have slipped on the make-up that was caked onto her leathery skin and hit my head on the side of the boat and since silicon floats she wouldn't have been able to drown with me.
Wow, what a judger I am today!
So, that was Saturday. Saturday evening I called Tommy around 6:45. I was supposed to go to a party that night, and I could've gone to Power & Light with Lauren and her friends, but I really wanted to relax at home. I called Tommy and he invited me down to have dinner with them. Of course, since I had already driven to Lees Summit that day I couldn't afford to drive to Raytown without second-mortgaging my home. So, I whined and pouted a little and next thing I know, they're bringing Peanut AND dinner up to me! It was perfect. We just chillaxed until 10:30 or so then I went to bed. Oh wait - We ALSO did my budget. I am so excited to start this. It's not like I am in dire straights or anything, especially considering we're near an economic depression or, are we technically IN an economic depression? Recession, depression, whatever it is scary regardless. I have a strict budget until October which is when I just basically start working toward my savings. I'm excited!
Sunday morning I went to the grocery store. I 'budgeted' what I would allow myself to spend and stuck to it. Yay! Lauren and Candace came home around noon; they'd already begun their Sunday morning with bloody marys! We went to a pool for the afternoon it was a BEAUTIFUL pool. So gorgeous. We all got quite a bit of sun!
I am looking forward to my family vacation which is this next week. My sister flies in Saturday morning - I think we're going boating with friends again. We leave Sunday morning for the Ozarks. Everyone is staying until the following Saturday. I have opted to come back Thursday night (although this isn't yet set in stone) due to the fact I am not comfortable taking an entire week off of work at this point. And...I don't want to leave Lauren with the dogs for more than 5 nights which, I think 5 is a lot anyway. We'll see. I am still contemplating. The girls at work think I would be crazy to come in and work Friday. But, I see it as an opportunity to come in for a totally relaxed Friday, catch up on emails, put out any fires, and enjoy Saturday and Sunday!
Thanks for reading.
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