Whirred Up

2010-05-16T15:04:00.000-07:00

Did someone say barbeque????

ARGHHH.

2010-03-17T05:33:00.000-07:00

ASK FOR HELP. This is a hard one for me. I am like the perpetual 2 year old screaming, "I DO IT, I DO IT!!!!" But, whaddya' know...asking for help helps people relate to you. But what happens when a person asks and asks and asks different people for help and it feels like spinning the rear wheels on a Miata in the dead of winter in 10 feet of snow? Not really any positive reinforcement there.

So, I think I will feel better if I find a really hard brick wall and bang my head for awhile......

Boom. Part II-Inner Dialogue

2010-02-07T06:29:00.000-08:00

EGO: ID? Are you there ID? It's me EGO.

SUPEREGO: What do you think you're doing? You can't call up ID. We buried ID a long time ago, remember?

EGO: Right...you always have to be right. Look, I need to talk to ID because we are facing an unknown experience and it involves some primal shit, ok?

SUPEREGO: Language!!

EGO: ID, if you can hear me...do you like guns? Violence? Blood? Boom-boom?

ID (from far away): Me like food. Want icecream.

EGO (validating): I know you do, ID...maybe after you answer some questions? Get icecream?

ID: Me like smoke.

SUPEREGO: Oh for Pete's sake. Do we have to do this? We have homework to do...and we need to get started now if it's going to be perfect. Our education is everything and we have spent a lot of money....

EGO: Look, Super....can you go smoke a cigarette? This will just take a minute. And I know, studies have shown that smoking is bad for our health.....

ID: Me tired. Me like bed.

EGO: ID, hang on a minute....look, I'm sorry I've repressed you all these years...but you might be interested in this...I know you're pretty good at anger and upping blood pressure...you know fight or flight...I need you to weigh in on this

ID: Me choose anger... then run like hell... then be mad all over again....no fight...that Superego then take that and beat you up.

EGO: Yep. Look ID, can you stay awake for awhile and near the surface?

ID: Icecream.
ID: And....Gun mean penis.

Boom. Part I...

2010-02-07T04:13:00.000-08:00

Nothing prepares a novice for the sheer sensual assault brought on by a gun range. Auditory violence...even with ear protection....fear/adrenaline response with each witnessed round of fire...the flash of fire exploding from the muzzle....shell casings popping...paper targets mortally wounded. Boyfriends and girlfriends on a date going round after round...laughing, happy. Loaded guns being discharged over and over and over. (cue accelerated heartbeat audio proceeding to flat line sound).-------------------------------

Yesterday I attended and graduated from a gun safety class. Since I am minor-ing in Criminal Justice, yet have no real experience of guns, this was research pure and simple....if I'm going to form hypothesis (hypotheses?) and conduct studies, well it makes sense, right? Personal experience in science is okay, but prone to bias. For me, personal experience is necessary if I'm going to open my mouth to say anything.

Prior to this class, my only experience with guns was a date with Hub at a range. Again I was operating on a knowledge is power (read killer of fear)principle. He has a .22 Beretta. He is a good teacher. I left the experience knowing NOT to wear a V-neck sweater as hot casings fly out of the gun and can end up in your bra. Who knew? Not I. I had no idea that flying casings happened. I never noticed them on those tv shows.

Appropriately attired in a buttoned up henley, jeans and leather boots, I opened the door and walked into class. Of course I had done some research about women and guns and knew that I wanted to fire a Ruger revolver as well as a baby Glock. These two guns were supposedly "manageable" and "a good place to start". The class was a great mix of people from all walks of life, including an impressive representation of women over 50...over 60. I can handle classroom...Majoring in psychology and with a past in journalism, people and content and perception and motivation are my thing. Why are you attending this class? Have you ever fired a gun? Why do you own a gun? What does it mean to own a gun? Do you think you would use it? What about accidental/unintentional death of say, a loved one? Etc. etc. It is easy for me to hide behind my intellect and genuine curiousity about most things in life.

Our instructor was a retired Marine who had seen combat in four wars. He served as a sniper. He was brilliant and funny and compassionate...how could this be? He definitely knew his stuff and knew how to teach, but as I sat in my chair I wondered about his demons and how he is able to reconcile his past with the present. Did his past experience enhance his interest and apparent love of people and guns? I thought that it made people callous and sometimes paranoid and sometimes crazy. So much for not having a bias? He was kind and gentle and serious and funny. I saw him place his hand on older women's shoulders....yet there was no double standard...no innuendo...no good ol' boys attitude....just a steadying hand and encouragement and teaching. I could sense a locked box behind his eyes, but it did not affect him or us. The only measurable link was his tendency to say "as you were". As a professor told me, in psychology, intuition to empirical. Assumptions mean nothing. Data is everything. Ok. As we were....

Alternate Uses for Icepicks.

2009-09-19T11:53:00.000-07:00

Lobotomies. Yes. My lovely education includes learning about Dr. Freeman and his frontal lobotomies using an icepick. First he would shock his patient into unconsciousness, then a little tap tap on the icepick with a hammer through the orbital socket, wiggle around and voila...that combative patient was nice and docile. Ahh. Ice pick lobotomies were recommended for house wives that were bored with housework. It was said to make their housework responsibilities more tolerable. I guess so.

Fortunately, with the introduction of thorazine, "the chemical lobotomy", ice picks fell out of favor. So I had to pass this along. AND, if you're still curious, you can look on YouTube and watch Dr. Freeman and this procedure. Oh, you're welcome. LOL.

The Dog with a Big Heart

2009-06-12T07:30:00.001-07:00

My bete noir (black beast) has been diagnosed with an enlarged heart. I always knew she was sweet....
Almost unheard of in the greyhound species, an ultrasound confirmed a heart murmur with enlargement of the left ventricle. As a breed, greyhounds tend to have larger hearts, as the heart is a muscle and greys are tres athletic. However, this goes a bit beyond. The Vet says her life expectancy is considerably shortened, and June has started blood pressure meds. Oh my girl. We are going to have a good time.

Wheeeeeeee!!!!!!

2009-05-08T04:47:00.001-07:00

As a child, I LOVED rollercoasters! Riding the Comet at Hershey Park was certainly the highlight of many summers. Now, in an adult body, my stomach rebels...but the light in my children's eyes inspires.

So I've been on a personal rollercoaster....I decided to work on my Bachelor's in Psychology while simultaneously throwing down pre-reqs for a nursing program....and lo and behold...the advisor called and said that there WAS a place for me in Surg Tech. Incredulous. I had already dried my tears over that one and set off with new co-ordinates. There was a new game in town. I had a decision to make....and I hope I have no regrets. Sucking in air, I told the advisor that I was going for a RN. Case closed. It's that scream on the way down....the one where you're scared silly and laughing hysterically at the same time.

Bitten by the past.....

2009-04-21T08:42:00.001-07:00

Well, this is a hard one....

After all my A's this past year, I was not accepted into the Surg Tech program after all. Because of two grades I got back in my 20's...a C in English....a C in Statistics, which decimated my GPA to a 3.2, which was not good enough.

I am #5 on the "waiting list", and will still go to the mandatory orientation. Not easy....failure is not easy.

However, when the advisor called and told me, I heard, in my heart, plans await for me. I hate it when I think I know best.

I loved my daughter's comment when she heard. (hand on hip) "AWWW. NOW I HAVE TO TELL MY CLASS THAT YOU'RE NOT GOING TO BE A COMMUNITY HELPER!" Lol.

Thanks for all your encouragement along the way. Stay tuned...it ain't over yet.

Rescusi-WHO?

2009-03-16T08:44:00.000-07:00

You can be relieved to know that I won't be talking about privates in this post. WHEW! These, um, dummies, um, end at the waist, really.
The plastic you see hanging out of their mouths is part of their inflatable lungs...they are the new practice equipment for CPR.

Funny, I just don't feel as compelled to help this droid as I did Annie. Remember resusci-Annie????? I mean for Pete's sake....Android, Android, are you ok? Just doesn't have the same ring...or elicit any concern on my part for this plastic ghoul. I did pass the first aid and CPR for Health Care providers course, with flying colors...but it would have been more poignant with.....

You just can't pick your patients these days.

My friend, Shim.

2009-03-11T06:20:00.000-07:00

By all accounts, this dummy looks like a man. A mouth breather, but nice teeth. He hangs out in a hospital bed in the back of our classroom.
So one day, my classmate Jessica and I were practicing vital signs...and of course, we giggle about the pH of pee pee and rectal temperature parameters and other potty medical stuff. So, our curiousity got the best of us...sure, we do NOT practice rectals...but what if we had to do that on the dummy? Does he have....well...ok, a butt hole?
We had to find out.

Quietly we lifted his hospital sheet and then his gown. EEEEEEEEEKKKKK! OMG. He has a VAGINA. Holy toledo. We quickly inform our teacher about our horrifying discovery, and she calmly tells us that yes....he's a SHIM...a she and a him...removable parts. He's just, um, she's just sporting the female thing today.
My friend Jessica has the biggest, bluest eyes and they almost popped out of her head. Well, we both had the best laugh of the week. I mean, WHO KNEW?

Now, poor Shim has his legs removed and his man parts on and is thrown on top of a cupboard, thankfully still in the back of the room. And I continue on, finishing my pre-reqs and waiting for my acceptance letter. What a trip.

Cheating?

2009-02-01T06:49:00.001-08:00

Things have changed since going to college in my 20's. Now "gym class" involves measures of your current physical prowess, lectures on nutrition, oxygen intake and output, and being tethered to a pedometer. In other words, it is very comprehensive...and I like it...it's a GUR. But this pedometer bothers me...it has a velcro component that itches my stomach...it taunts me all day long..."how many steps, how many steps"...so hey, you would think this is a GREYT solution.
But not so fast....(heh heh). Before I scheduled an appt. in the confessional box, we discovered that this placement does not work...it doesn't register anything. So, no cheating...silly rabbit!

Waffles as prey

2009-01-23T05:12:00.000-08:00

Mice are completely overrated.

A Meme...A meme...alleluia, a meme....

2009-01-22T14:48:00.000-08:00

I'm considering myself tagged by Zan of Sirius Sight Hounds, who posted this fun Meme. Consider yourself tagged if you want to participate.

1) Last movie you saw in a theatre? Beverly Hills Chihuahua

2) What book are you reading? The Commanding Heights/req. for Economics class

3) Favorite board game? Monopoly.

4) Favorite magazine? Scientific America for brainy days... In Style for all the others

5) Favorite smells? Fresh ground coffee...my husband's skin...clean sheets...interior of Porsche 911

6) Favorite sounds? Birds chirping...silence

7) Worst feeling in the world? Hopelessness.

8 ) What is the first thing you think when you first wake up? Caw-feeeee.....caw-feeeeee.

9) Favorite fast food place? Lately, Wendy's.

10) Future child’s name? ha ha ha. Lost in Space?

11) Finish this statement—if I had a lot of money I’d hire a chef and a housekeeper...give to charities.
12) Do you drive fast? Sometimes.

13) Do you sleep with a stuffed animal? Ok, I sleep with a furry square pillow that I got at Home Depot fancy...whatever that place is called

14) Storms–cool or scary? Very cool!!!!

15) What was your first car? A peach colored Ford Maverick, three on the tree.

16) Favorite drink? Fizzy water with lemon or lime.

17) Finish this statement - if I had the time I would make broadcast quality documentaries about greyhounds....I would also write a complete training course for teachers on how to deal with twice exceptional students...I would fly to the beach on every cheap ticket that came up and would build sand castles with Ava.

18 ) Do you eat the stems on broccoli? Used to...hub/fam hates.

19) If you could dye your hair any other color, what would be your choice? I would love to have the color that I was born with.

20) Name all the different cities/towns u have lived in? Silver Spring, MD, NewWindsor, MD, Front Royal, VA, Westminster, MD, Owings Mills, MD, Annandale, VA, Simpsonville, SC, Roswell, GA and Kennesaw, GA. WHEW.

21) Favorite sports to watch? Ice skating/gymnastics

22) One nice thing about the person who sent this to you? I consider myself tagged by Zan...and I love that she calls her son, "Wheels". LOL!

23) What’s under your bed? Cat and dog hair

24) Would you like to be born as yourself again? oh yeah...with knowledge of the previous life.

25) Morning person or night owl? Night owl.

26) Over easy or sunny side up? Scrambled, thanks.

27) Favorite place to relax? Bed

28 ) Favorite pie? Pumpkin

29) Favorite ice cream flavor? Mint chocolate chip or Mayfield's Brown Cow, or Black Raspberry or Coconut chocolate chip...........

Go to town! Take the challenge!

6th picture, 6th folder tag...

2009-01-17T05:30:00.001-08:00

Being tagged to post my 6/6...is not only fun, but also encouraged me to clean up my photo folders...

I blogged about this one...June in our garden. She is a HUGE fan of organic gardening, and just LOVES a tomato. And yep, she would only eat the ripe ones.

To be honest, tho' before moving these pictures to a generic "moth" file...these were in the 6th folder...pictures 2 &3 of 3.

For those going to Birmingham, a preview.....

2009-01-14T10:48:00.000-08:00

SEGA's annual trip to Birmingham Race Course is coming up this wknd. Just wanted to show you a couple of cuties at their adoption kennel. Now, I know many of you have that empty back seat...just be prepared...these babies can steal your heart!

Heart stealer, professional grade...this is Silsby...a female love machine. Oh! She's wonderful!

This is Mercedes, female...very friendly and just gorgeous, gorgeous!

Here we have the beautiful blue brindle, Bruce...male. (This is the one I was telling you about, Scott)
Oh, last but not least...look at this sad guy! His owner returned him. I hope he's a bit happier when you see him...or maybe he's been adopted....or maybe YOU might adopt him. I think his previous owner returned him as they were being shipped out of the country, military style.

I am feeling more human. Hope you guys like the pics!

NOROVIRUS

2009-01-13T10:32:00.001-08:00

No pictures on this post....I value my readership...sure, a cold sore is one thing, but I do have my limits, thank God!

I am layed out....freaked out, exhausted...never been this sick in my life sick. However, I do have enough wits about me to smugly see the positive side of this dark place...my weight loss effort has been realized....but at such a cost. Oy vay.

The message for today is wash your hands. a lot.

Baby got Back...

2009-01-05T16:54:00.000-08:00

This is just one of my favorite greyhound things.....

My Mother in Law thought it was great that he was able to "air it out".

Sistah, sistah...

2009-01-04T12:50:00.001-08:00

Our June....

June's sister, SP's Hot Chick, aka Coco

What a great road trip! It was very exciting to meet June's sister...but don't cue the music just yet. Ms. Hot Chick was stone cold....a statue....poor thing. Not personable AT ALL. So the warm fuzzies were really just in my heart and not shared. Ah well...some greys are good at just one thing...Coco (her kennel name) is good at RACING...but obviously she has not been briefed on how to handle her admiring public. This was also her first time setting eyes on children...so let's cut her a break!

We learned stories, too. The trainer told us that our June was a "fighter", had to wear a special muzzle with blinders, and got carded twice. (I think that's bad) Not only that, but her brother and sister are also bullies. The last thing the trainer said as he shut the kennel door was, "I'll talk to the owner, but I don't think they'll want her back for breeding because of the fighting." NICE. So see...different kind of music....like that song, "Bad Girls". Beep beep, hah toot toot!

I was a little disappointed...her behavior was in sharp contrast to the very friendly and loving, licking racers at the different kennels throughout Birmingham's track...but it takes all kinds, eh? Meanwhile, just to be safe, I'm checking June's back pocket for brass knuckles and num chucks.

ROAD TRIP!!!!

2009-01-01T07:38:00.000-08:00

What a greyt way to start the new year! The fam and I are getting ready to head to Birmingham to meet June's sister, SP's Hot Chick. She is still racing at Grade A, and is housed at the Clear the Way kennel.

I called the racetrack and spoke to the director of racing who put me in contact with her trainer. So, today at 2:30 PM, we will be meeting "CoCo", her kennel name. Definitely easier to say than "Hot Chick"!

All of Canoe's siblings did not make it...so I guess that's why I'm excited about finding a sibling nearby. I hope that I can make a difference in her life when her feet get slower and she's no longer making the big bucks.

Happy New Year everyone!

Cheap Thrills

2008-12-31T06:29:00.000-08:00

I love a cheap thrill, yes, it's true. But they're hard to come by....some are just cheap without the thrill. So recently, after skulking around, I saw that this lip balm has just made it to the US. Apparently, women stocked up on this stuff overseas. It is called Labello, or somethin' like that. Big time raves. So the marketing campaign worked and I found some at Walgreens.

I think the hunt is half the fun...I got the last one, which made it even better....but, hmmmm....after product testing, I'm not so sure what the big deal is. Yes, it's nice....but not ga-ga rush to the Walgreens. I'm a Blistex girl, blue tube...and will remain one. The Nivea is made in Germany...so that did have some label snob appeal...all of this back and forth for under $3.00.

Don't worry....school starts on Monday for me and on Tuesday for the kids....hopefully I'll have some better fodder once the routine gets back to normal. Do you have a cheap thrill?

Home Decor

2008-12-22T06:59:00.000-08:00

Did you ever see that show where some women pinned leashed live roaches and beetles to their lapels? They even had glued jewels on some of the bugs. EW! EW! EW! It's one of those things I wished I had never seen b/c it sticks in my head to haunt me now and again...anyway, I enjoy this type of live scenery MUCH BETTER.

Cheap Therapy

2008-12-20T13:09:00.000-08:00

This was my first time back to the kennel after the Garth incident. It was good to have some breathing room...but that allowed Nasty Nancy and Resentful Rita, two of my many personalities, to have more power than necessary. LOL.

I have been frustrated by the level of care required of me, and perhaps critiqued by, those boys who had their nosie's operated on recently. I have also been frustrated with the lack of blogging going on for the dogs at the kennel. But thought it was best not to post for more blogging in this mood. Curt Carla sometimes wants to take over my keyboard. So, I went and blogged myself, and them doggies at the kennel restored me more toward center.

It's hard to keep all that anger, sadness, bitterness inside, while trying to do therapy on yourself and being appropriate in public. Unfortunately, I called someone a "twot" while driving, and of course Ava was instantly drawn to the word. Twot...twot....twot....twot. Oh hell....so now I'm going to post a picture of my bodies response to this stress. But it's up to you if you want to see it.

.

Bloody Boogers on my keyboard....

2008-12-11T04:50:00.000-08:00

Really. This is a new low.

Usually, after getting my daughter off to school, I come back to check my email, etc. This morning, I open the ol' laptop to find crusts sprinkled across the touchpad. Gives a whole new meaning to "touchpad", eh? And what's worse, I found myself mentally noting the quality of the clotting factor, making it easy to air whoosh my keyboard clean.

If you're still reading, let me explain, no really, I want to. Yesterday, my son had a tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy and nasal reconstruction. Thus, the bloody boogers. We had a whole day at the hospital....me and the kids. My daughter was wonderful, even though this was not her idea of a field trip. We were gone the WHOLE day.

The dogs, pictured here on their ORVIS beds...did ok....June did go "shopping" in the pantry and decided to shred some napkins while she awaited our return. I think she was trying to make a tree topper of some sort.

Today dawns anew. Daughter went to school....bloody boogers is still asleep...and nasal lavage awaits me. Oh, BTW....I finished my semester at school, and am exempted from finals as I finished with a 98% in both classes. Rock on!

Oh, PP tree, oh PP tree....

2008-12-07T17:28:00.001-08:00

Really, this should have been a no brainer...after all, someone christened the tree last year. So, after hauling up the tree from the basement with sheer brute strength (I am solo this week...hub is away on business) and setting it up, at the demands of my small Christmas slave driver, OH, I mean, eh hm, ELF. We set out for the mall to pick up a new Christmas tree skirt, as the old one got pitched after the christening.

We picked up a great one at Macy's and then went to RuSans for sushi...we made bets as to whether or not history would repeat itself. It did.
So, with that sheer brute strength, I picked up the tree and put it on a table....and wrapped our new skirt around it. "Someone" tried to blame it on June........

However, June was crated.

Looks like some coal might be in "someone's" stocking this year.................

RICH.

2008-12-03T06:27:00.001-08:00

The best present this morning....and she IS good at math!

My "bed lizzy".

Back in good graces.

Funkytown

2008-11-29T08:21:00.000-08:00

I am in funky town...and have been for a while. Sometimes the grey is a respite from the technicolor of life outside. I saw my first glimpse of yellow today when I heard that Garth is adopted, and is much loved. Leaving him almost tore my heart in two.

Canoe and I have been putting miles under our feet, and his attitude is improving...and I might like him again...a little.

I am thankful for all my blessings...just under the blanket.

The Bully Pig

2008-11-23T06:46:00.000-08:00

In racing, they call it "swapping paint"...but that means both cars get injured in the crash. So, Lightning McQueen attacked Doc Hudson, but only got one tooth mark on his rear bumper. Doc Hudson was seriously injured, and had to go to the repair shop. It was over a BONE that wasn't picked up.
Not only does my foster have two drainage tubes and more stitches than I can count, HE IS CONVALESCING at my house. Yep. Sources say that dogs buddy back up, even after a fight. Not so much. At least in my experience. So, I'm practicing my surg tech skills and nursing skills as I get this ol' guy back to new for his new foster home on Wednesday. Lightning McQueen's, or the "bully pig"'s mouth has been incarcerated in a muzzle, and all bets are off as far as a reunion.
So, this has cooled my ardor for being that "hero" I talked about earlier. It has been a horrific experience...and I have some resentment about being made into a better dog owner by dealing with the aftermath of the attack.
Garth is doing remarkably well...Canoe has made it completely clear that NO males, young, old, gay or straight will be tolerated. After I get all the blood out of the carpet and off the walls, Canoe and I are going to do some training....and I have learned a lesson the hard way.

What's in a name?

2008-11-20T07:27:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking about renaming my blog...the black hearse part was appropriate, as I started this blog soon after my mother's death...but I am healing, and black hearses, while still poignant, are no longer a mainstay in my brain.

SO. I really liked "rants in my pants"...but so did someone else. Other names I'm throwing around are:
Reallywrite

DiaMaria...a favorite childhood nickname...but I can't imagine saying out loud, oh yeah, check out my blog at diamaria. LOL.

Freudianslip...haven't checked this one...

Needle Knows...

Another Chants...

Pun and games...

This may take a while. As you can see, I do love double entendres.
It has been a virtual wild kingdom around here. I am fleeing the animal womb of my house to school today. Can't wait.

Lightning McQueen and Doc Hudson

2008-11-12T08:08:00.000-08:00

In the wonderful movie "Cars" the struggle between youngsters and the older generation is highlighted in the relationship between the young and brash Lightning McQueen and the bit grumpy but wise Doc Hudson. If you haven't seen this movie, do yourself a favor and get it!

I am fostering a 10 1/2 year old boy, Garth, who was recently returned because his family was working long long hours. It is so funny to see the characters play out in my backyard.....

We have young Canoe starring as Lightning, and Garth as the older and wiser racer, Doc Hudson. Canoe is very self assured and sassy....Garth is older, but has a commendable race record under his belt, as well. I can see Canoe giving him a hard time, and Garth rolling his eyes.

I have wanted to adopt a senior lately, but a female, as Canoe gets along better with girls. Although Garth is a boy and perhaps not the best fit for my pack, he confirms that Seniors are absolutely wonderful dogs, and managing both of their jockeying for position is making me a better pack leader. With all the marking going on outside...there have been no accidents inside! Ka-chow!

Canoe K'notes--op-ed

2008-11-06T06:23:00.000-08:00

Dear Readers,

I must concur with one astute commentor in regards to my sister's practice, "Plastics for Plastics". The commentor wondered if "she stayed at the Holiday Inn Express"...let me be blunt. I think she should change her name to Dr. Mengele.

Now, it's true that I have been known to be a cobbler in my spare time. However, I have channeled this urge into healthy choices, as my picture shows. While I mind my manners and curb my basic desires to eat off the table and lick dirty plates in the dishwasher, Dr. June runs around this house, nabbing whatever she can find. Did you know after Barbie made her statement, she got trashed??????

Needless to say, I believe that the ONLY true doctor in Dr. June's practice is the one that spins.

Now you know the rest of the story.

"Plastics for Plastics" Surgeon Makes Headlines

2008-11-03T07:24:00.000-08:00

World renowned plastic surgeon, Dr. June Peters has made medical history once again. Known for her bold approach and pioneering spirit, Dr. Peters is notorious for her frontal lobotomies and head-ectomies of such celebrities as Polly Pocket and My Little Pony.

"My latest case involved a young lady who presented with abnormal leg anatomy. This patient came to me complaining of toppling over and not feeling "grounded" due to the absurd length of her legs. My team and I decided on an aggressive approach, and the patient was thrilled with the results."

In addition, "Barbie" also requested an amputation of her left hand, stating that she would never, ever marry Ken, or anyone else for that matter.
"I would recommend Dr. June and her practice, Plastics for Plastics, to all my friends. Whether they are experiencing too much play stress, and need a frontal lobotomy, or like me, are tired of being a terrible role model for young girls, Dr. June comes through time and time again."

Running barefoot and bra-less in the dark.

2008-10-27T04:41:00.000-07:00

By the sliver of the moon.

One minute, I'm in my car talking to my daughter about the moon sliver, waiting for the bus...the next, I'm running through the neighborhood like a banshee.

As I'm waving goodbye to Ava, the next thing I see is my hub. THE DOGS GOT OUT! Apparently, Canoe opened the door and let himself and June out! (It's been known that Mr. Canoe can turn a knob.)

Picture this...woman in shorts, with her SEGA shirt on, no less...barefoot, roaming the streets calling out "OOOOOOBIEEEEEE*.....JOOOOOOOOOEEEEEEEEE. Luckily, there they were! We ran full speed to each other. The dogs were warm and doing silly jumps in the air....Whew.

I'm glad I have smaller boobs.

****as in "ooobie wan Canoobie" and "Jewy". Sad but true.

I didn't get a 100....

2008-10-21T16:51:00.000-07:00

I got a 103% as I got the bonus question correct!!!!!!!!!

Thank you from the middle of my brain and the bottom of my heart for all your good wishes. As for the booty dance...it'll have to be tomorrow...b/c this booty is draggin'!

Foxhole Prayers

2008-10-21T04:39:00.000-07:00

1 PM.....

Anatomy and Physiology test....haven't prepared adequately. Have been PROCRASTINATING. Will cram this morning. SOS.....SOS.....more good thoughts, please! They worked the last time.

I do get my other exam back today, so stay tuned for that booty dance. LOL.

Alittla' dis, alitta' dat

2008-10-17T20:11:00.000-07:00

My Damn Dryer

2008-10-17T05:02:00.001-07:00

Sometimes this dryer has a problem. Sometimes it seems that the heat element goes balistic and shrinks all my pants. I HATE when this happens...and it's never predictable. Some mornings I get up and put on my pants...they are fine. Some mornings, like this morning, I put on my pants and darn if that dryer didn't shrink them two sizes. It also likes to shrink my underwear...and I end up with a skin imprint of the waistband. I wish this dryer wouldn't do this! :)

Think Good Thoughts (say a prayer)!

2008-10-16T05:55:00.000-07:00

Today I will have my first test in Medical Terminology. I AM READY! I have a few loose neurons to connect...specifically needing to remember: lysis-seperation, destruction, loosening....
plasia-formation or growth AND plegia-paralysis.
I'm going for an "A" people! Shooting for 100% so I can do that victory dance.

Oh Where oh where has my little blog gone?

2008-10-14T06:40:00.000-07:00

My blogging has gone to the dogs, literally! With school in full swing, the blogging I do is for our adoptable greyhounds at SEGA. This little blog will just have to wait.

Do you want to see pics of my dog do ya' do ya' do ya'?

2008-10-08T11:03:00.000-07:00

Don't really have a choice anyway! LOL. Can I tell you how proud I am of this gorgeous creature?

Clocked at 40 mph. Pictures by Susan LaBarge. Thanks Susan!!!!

If I could change my address.....

2008-10-06T09:48:00.000-07:00

How cool would that be???? LOL!

House Ho' seeks Man Maid...

2008-10-03T07:35:00.000-07:00

Just a thrill a minute!

Reluctance....

2008-10-01T11:04:00.000-07:00

This is my friend, Patti Peterson....(or maybe WAS my friend). She is an amazing person, and does so much for SEGA. One of her "jobs" is to photograph the new dogs that come into our organization...one of my "jobs" is to add to and coordinate the Blogs. So I met her and other volunteer extraordinaire, Kim LeVear, at the kennel to get some footage of our 3 new dogs. Obviously, Patti likes being BEHIND the camera more than in front...but REALLY! Even if she was in my shot, I would edit it....OHHHHH...BUT NOT NOW!!!

I'm gonna' harden my heart.....

2008-09-27T14:31:00.000-07:00

Ugghhh. I can't get this girl out of my mind. She is "Go the Extramile"....a beautiful little girl at the kennel (Southeastern Greyhounds). She is petite...balanced....friendly.....she is underweight and has horrible skin, as many of the dogs do that come in off the track...

I foster sometimes. And I was asked to foster again, as new hounds are on their way. Knowing the dogs at the kennel, b/c I also do "kennel duty", I asked if I could foster this one....but didn't ask my DH....they said yes....he said No. We got in a little tiff....

I have to admit, that when a new dog comes to our house, it causes an upheaval...Victor obsesses about the dog (but doesn't do squat with helping)....Ava has bad behavior....and Martin gets mad because I sleep downstairs with the new dog until I can teach her how to climb stairs...our dogs are well mannered, for the most part, and of course there is a learning curve for a dog coming from a kennel into a home for the first time. To be fair, I also have to admit that pee pee accidents are not on my list of favorites, and having to leash walk the dog outside to pee at 6AM can be challenging. But sigh........can I tell you good it feels to ACCOMPLISH something? To have a direct correlation between effort expended and results? These dogs give it to me all the time.

A foster looks to me for direction, and when I give it, they respond. They are so grateful for anything I do.....I get to watch them blossom in a very short period of time...and yep, that does feel good.

This little girl has a Daddy that was born in Ireland. She started racing in Tampa, then was shipped to Kansas, and then back to Florida and then to our kennel. That's a lot. I don't know if you can see the white tip of her tail, but in person, it goes back and forth as she has a nice easy steady wag....sweet brown eyes.

But yet, I do live with three other people...and two other dogs. I just wish sometimes that I could say yes freely and also be a hero at home.

Hoofbeats in my Heart

2008-09-15T18:24:00.002-07:00

This weekend I got to be a "jump judge" at a lovely event. So the reason all the angles are the same is because I was at jump #1 all day!

I was the girl who always wanted a horse. My parents were kind enough to allow me lessons in an effort to satisfy the longing in my heart...but their pocketbooks (and perhaps, sensibilities) didn't stretch as far as our big back yard. So, I had many girlfriends who had horses. And on Saturdays, you could find me mucking stalls and hopefully riding and giggling with Beth, or Vanessa....breathing in that wonderful horsey perfume and trying to figure out how in the hell you are supposed to keep your heels down and toes in.

Now, as an adult, I've ridden sporadically...you know, those "beach rides" on vacation, where you can't do more than a walk, and usually in a western saddle....I celebrated my 40th birthday in Montana at a horse ranch...and I actually started taking lessons again (a few years back) and wondered what happened to my leg muscles.

The cabash happened when I was posting around the ring, and Victor and the instructor's kids came running out of the nearby office, slamming the screen door, and I was thrown. While it WAS a bit thrilling to find myself face down in the dirt (how many times do you really fall in midlife????) The next day I was SO SORE.

Long story...but the ending is, GREYHOUNDS actually satisfy my need to have a horse....and going to events like this one!

Tastes like Chicken

2008-09-10T14:30:00.001-07:00

Yes, Halloween is so right around the corner! NOT....
We got this leg last year...Victor could not resist it. After Halloween, I put it in the linen closet and just about scared myself everytime I went to put away towels! It is very realistic looking.

This year, Victor has already talked me into buying a severed arm...but the dogs chewed the fingers off...(that's what he gets for leaving it laying around). My goal is to sneak this in my uber conservative husband's car...hanging out the passenger side door...and see what happens. LOL! It won't be pretty.

What do you think Rover is saying in this picture?

Lemmings

2008-09-07T14:16:00.002-07:00

Yep, they follow me everywhere....the major breakthrough is that they didn't all join me in the bathroom like usual. Must've known I was faking it!
When I was a teenager, this song was MAJOR to me...sweet pictures of my beloved....who knew that they were GREYHOUNDS?????

It can be really annoying...but sometimes it reminds me to "set fer a spell".
PS. Yes, yes...I am "rewarding" the bad behavior and therefore encouraging it in this video. Geez.

A NEW CAREER????

2008-09-05T06:25:00.000-07:00

Well, I have applied and have been accepted into Chattahoochee Tech's Surgical Technologist Program. I am really excited! My husband is asking "why?", since my gig has always been communication, video production, script writing....Perhaps it is another sign of an impending mid life crisis! LOL. But really, I have ALWAYS been keenly interested in the medical field. I am one of those people who has no problem sitting down with a roaster chicken while watching the Discovery Health Channel.

This semester I will be taking Human Anatomy and Physiology and Medical Terminology. I am eager to get back in the classroom and flex the grey matter. If nothing else, it feels good to not only "talk" about something, but to actually DO something to achieve it. This may not be all I imagine it to be, but that's ok...it feels good to take action!!!! Woo-hoo!

Pussycat, Pussycat, where have you been?

2008-09-03T08:13:00.000-07:00

If curiousity really did kill the cat, Putin better watch it! He is an explorer, a braveheart, a warrior all in a small 9 lb. body!

He's a snuggler too!

Very scary!

2008-09-03T07:51:00.001-07:00

Ghost Dogs in Kennesaw

As a prolific photographer of my dogs, their eyes are always a challenge! I loved this one, though...untouched. I am still trying to figure out how to photoshop the flash reflection in normal indoor photos. Does anyone have any tricks?

And then there were three......

Back to spaghetti leash syndrome, as our gorgeous foster, Red Rover, has returned. Martin and I are getting the hang of it...
The comments are so funny now..."gee, do you need another one?","wow, you have your hands full", "are they ALL yours?", "oh, they are better behaved than most children!". I walk the dogs two to my left (Canoe and June) and Rover to the right. They too are getting used to the whole thing and I can easily take them anywhere. Ok, so the only problem I have is when Canoe wants to mark...then the spaghetti leash thing. I walk tall with three gorgeous dogs! (after I jump rope out of the spaghetti!)

"lookin' at you lookin' at me"

2008-08-26T19:08:00.000-07:00

6 things about moi.

2008-08-25T07:07:00.000-07:00

I was tagged! So finally here it goes:

1. I held the title of Maryland State Rabbit Judge Champion, Jr. Division
Oh yeah! I was a 4-H'er, and raised New Zealand White rabbits. I also excelled at rabbit judging...I still can remember breed standards.

2. I used to be an on-air News Anchor
I love this little clipping. I look so young and spry! Yes, I brought "complete coverage of today's events". I loved this job, and loved working in television. I went on to work at Maryland Public Television, and then got into Corporate Communications and then Agency work.

3. I have my motorcycle license.......
Although I haven't ridden in years....I did learn how to ride for a show about Harley Davidson and Sturgiss. I rode from Milwauki, Wisconsin to Sturgis South Dakota... During this trip, I encouraged many women to get off the back of some guy's bike, and get one of their own, through my example. That was the best!

4. I mashed cake at my wedding.
And I would do it again.

5. If I was stranded on a deserted island and I could only have one food....it would be spaghetti.

6. I know how to drive cars fast, but am better at making tv shows about fast cars.....
Now off to do laundry!...If you haven't been tagged, I tag YOU! Still waiting for Scott's post.....

The "Burglar Phase"

2008-08-20T06:36:00.000-07:00

Mommy! What was THAT noise????? Mommy! I heard the door open!!!!! Mommy! I thought I saw someone downstairs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ah yes, the burglar phase...a period of time when your otherwise very confident child turns into a paranoid security advisor.

Victor went through this...and being my first child, I went through a bunch of crazy self examination....am I giving him enough attention? Does he feel like he's responsible for his safety b/c no one else is? What can I do to make him more comfortable in our home? Is this an indicator that he doesn't feel safe in his world? Maybe I need to really monitor his PBS shows to see if that is causing it...sometimes "Arthur" can be a bit risque. HAS HE ALREADY BEEN THE VICTIM OF A CRIME THAT I DON'T KNOW ABOUT???!!!!##!

Whew. I'm exhausted after remembering that. With lovely child #2, THANK GOD I realize this is a phase...this too shall pass, and everything is OK. I'm even tempted to ask her if she's checked her closet and looked under her bed...after all, monsters aren't stopped by locks.

I HATE when that happens!

2008-08-19T12:47:00.000-07:00

A picture is worth a thousand (curse) words.

My solution to pollution.

Hmmm. It wasn't really her fault. She always has to pee at 3 AM...no matter what time I take her out before. She does this pee pee dance where she runs the length of my bedroom and back...over and over. Needless to say, I rolled over and put the pillow over my head.
***notice the Snickers bar wrapper tucked under her armpit.

There's a New Kid in Town

2008-08-17T07:21:00.000-07:00

The Peters family welcomes "Putin", our new kitty!!!!! Ok, so first of all, I AM NOT responsible for the name....my husband is. I tried to tell him that in the South, Putin or "pootin'" means so much more than the Russian leader....

He's a very sweet, playful one year old. We are hoping he lives to be 100!
Canoe was happy....June is ok....Putin says, talk to the paw.

EEEK! What's that in the tomato patch?!

2008-08-15T08:18:00.000-07:00

I think it might be a black jack rabbit....hmm...but the tail doesn't look right.

Hmm....you can see it's ribs......

AHA! JUNE SILHOUETTE PETERS! um, she loves tomatoes.

Wishing for cool weather!!!

2008-08-04T06:11:00.000-07:00

I can't wait for those days with temps in the 70's...the kind where you can take a long walk and not need a respirator, CPR or ice!

BTW...do you know how hard it is to shoot and walk at the same time? We won't even talk about driving and shooting!

Back from Camp

2008-07-29T04:30:00.000-07:00

Summer is in it's last gasps, for all intensive purposes....certainly not heat-wise, but school will be starting soon. (Alleluia)...Canoe and June recently spent some time at Club Kate, or Manyhounds Inn, as Kate has named it. You can see they had a blast! We love Kate...she always goes above and beyond...her kennel is spotless, and her love is given freely. When I leave my dogs with her, I can pull out of her driveway knowing that they will be just fine. You can't put a price tag on peace of mind!

A Summer's Evening

2008-07-20T14:48:00.000-07:00

A friend of ours, and maybe yours too, Kate Crawford put out an open invitation to a bluegrass shindig in Woodstock. We loaded up the dogs and Ava, and off we went. What a fun evening! It was very hot, but you can see, my dogs and child know how to beat the heat.

Canoe liked Strawberry! "Purple"

Thanks Kate and Comet!

The Second Child

2008-07-09T06:04:00.001-07:00

Ava, my second child....
I think it may be a universal question of mothers....how will I possibly be able to love #2 as much as #1? Perhaps #2 doesn't look like #1 did when they were born...perhaps they have a different temperment, and (eeeee gads....)maybe it took you a little longer to fall head over heels. I have found that these are all normal emotions....and once again, things may take various amounts of time to gel, if you will.

Well, how 'bout that, same principle can be applied to greys...my #2, "June" or "Joo-ey"...(figured that was better than "Jewy". LOL) Hmm, she wasn't this big goofy warm melted marshmallow like my #1...
And....I must admit..... I've even said that she was an "unplanned adoption" to several people....(I'll burn for that one)...

But now that we have had her for several months, she has gotten comfortable, and has blossomed into this wonderful dog. Very different from Canoe....she is a little more high strung, but not much...she doesn't look like him...etc. and I'm glad. She is so beautiful....her coat is shinier and shinier....the dandruff is getting better....and guess what....she is a love. Happy, affectionate and eager to offer sits for treats. She always comes when called...goes to her bed when told...

I admire her "country teeth"...they always crack me up...and now that foster girl is gone, the infamous and stunning roach ability has re-appeared.

I love my second dog!

Canoe's girl is leaving him.....

2008-07-07T05:28:00.001-07:00

She's a heartbreaker....or will become one tomorrow, as Red Rover is going home with her forever family.

As a foster often does, she has bestowed us with many gifts....one being winning Canoe's heart. I have never ever seen him touch another dog, or share, or snuggle with another dog. So, awwwwww!

Ms. June, on the other hand, will help pack Rover's bags and maybe bite her on the butt as she leaves.

jealousy glows in her eyes.......

Ms. June likes to be the "girl with the most cake". She doesn't want Canoe...she just wants to maintain her quotient of love with the family. Rover's gift to June is teaching her that stairs are really not scary...that you can lick you r human instead of nitting on them...and patience...even tho' that treat is the best smelling thing in the world, you don't have to grab and go.

Thank God Victor is at camp....the tears would fill a pool. Ava, well, she's all ready for whatever happens next...she said that she would entertain Rover's new family's kids so that I can talk to the Mom and Dad. Generous.

Me, I will miss her too...but I know I have given her a great start....and that's what it's all about.

Greyhounds are priceless

2008-07-01T11:25:00.001-07:00

vet bill for 4 hour visit-$417.00

install stair runner- $800 greyhound hauler-$Lots

PRICELESS.

Ripe Bananas

2008-06-30T08:26:00.001-07:00

I have a new foster dog! Her name is Red Rover....but, in my opinion, maybe Chiquita would be more appropriate! LOL. I have never seen a fawn brindle...she's very light...and looks yellow. What a love girl she is....I am figuring out how to do the three dog thing. Wow. The leashes look like spaghetti...feeding separately is fun...but all is well. She's gonna' go fast...she is wonderful...best foster I've had so far.

Break a neck!

2008-06-17T08:52:00.000-07:00

So, some of my greyhound friends, and others do the raw food diet. Inspired, I went out and got some turkey necks to see if my gang was interested. Ahhh, yeah, they are.

June was born to eat raw...Canoe would request a fork and knife if he could. Now...do I wipe their paws and maws with an anti-bacterial wipe, or look the other way? LOL. BTW, they have been working on their synchronized pee-ing. They wonder if this can be a sign of agility.....

Fast Girls

2008-06-05T06:26:00.000-07:00

I think.....I see a resemblance.....

Let's take another look......

...ok, imagine if June was wearing a helmet.....

A Rant...

2008-06-04T10:54:00.001-07:00

All I wanted was a nice summer purse...so I venture out of my house to THE MALL. I wanted to sniff and feel the leather...feel the weight of the bag...things you can't do online. THERE WAS A PROBLEM ACROSS THE BOARD.

Can I ask.....WHY do all these purses need to have this huge medallion exclaming who made the purse????? I am so past "labels"...and like a fine product with discreet labeling...oh, maybe inside??? Why would anyone want to walk around and be an advertisement for whoever?

Look at this one...it's almost just right...that is, if your name is KATE SPADE.

And, then, ah, yes. That vicious alligator...the one who tormented me in my teens, I was so uncool layering shirts from Sears. Now that I can afford Mr. Alligator, there would be NO WAY...not if it was the last bag on earth.

Whew...I feel so much better.

Girls just wanna' have fun

2008-06-02T08:07:00.001-07:00

I can see!!!!!!!!!

My surgery went great...I keep wanting to take my contact lenses out at night...and then I remember. It's wierd...I didn't realize how much glasses and contacts were a part of me. Not that I miss them.....

Ava and June played fashion plates this morning.

GOODBYE FOUR EYES

2008-05-29T06:58:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I am having Lasik surgery at Emory Vision. I am excited and nervous....I don't think Canoe or June would make very good seeing eye dogs.
But the thought of being free...of being able to see in the morning is pretty compelling.

"Look at the red light and DO NOT look away". Yikes! I think I also did a disservice to myself by watching my husband's surgery 6 years ago. Yep, it was gross.

It's been funny...when I tell people that I'm going to take the plunge...some of them have looked scared and have asked where I will be getting it done. Just for fun, I told a couple of them that I was hitting the Lasiks Center by Publix b/c I had a buy one get one free coupon.

Tomorrow at 10 AM...think good thoughts!!!!!

I like roaches!

2008-05-21T08:37:00.000-07:00

But only the Greyhound related kind.

Our new girl, nka "June" is a roacher extra-ordinaire. (hub named her June after she joyously crunched up a junebug.) Canoe, on the other hand, is a side sleeper. I have seen him roach when we first got him, but more often than not, that deep chest of his plops him back on his side.

For my sans-greyhound friends, "roaching" refers to this upside down sleep position that SOME greyhounds employ and enjoy. Can you say roaching???? Goooooood.

\ˌsi-lə-ˈwet\

2008-05-17T14:21:00.000-07:00

sil·hou·ette noun

1. A drawing consisting of the outline of something, especially a human profile, filled in with a solid color.

2. A very beautiful greyhound that was adopted by the Peters family through SEGA. Sister of Canoe.

The most wonderfullest Greyhound, ever.

2008-05-13T06:09:00.000-07:00

Oobie wan Canoobie...Bacon Boy....Canockle Bacon....Can oe-berry.....

Names of endearment for my red dog....(oh brother....she's hopeless). I am...and I'll give you one example of why.

I have been in single parent mode since Friday, my darlin' husband out in Florida on business, bringing home his own kind of bacon. My son, having major difficulty from a minor surgery...staying home from school on doctor's orders...the daughter, singing, chatting incessantly...as is her right...chopping up paper...coloring....hating every meal that I cook...you get the picture. Pretty normal for me and for her.

(My son just told me that he dreamt that Hitler was eating Britney Spears while riding on a squid...I guess his pain meds are working really well)

Anyway, I digress...after cleaning up from another meal, I slipped outside to my Adirondack chair...to breathe and collect my wits. The dogs followed me, of course, and Canoe sidled up to the chair to be pet. I pet his soft fur and rested my head on his neck...inhaling the warm smell of his doggie-ness....such a comfort. I then leaned back and shut my eyes...Canoe came around to the front of my chair, put his paws up on the chair, leaned in and put his head on my shoulder...nitted on me and gave me a quick lick. How did he know?

There ain't nothin' like Greyhound Love. (sing to "radar love")

Mother's Day...a Hallmark Event?

2008-05-12T08:36:00.000-07:00

WHOA. So if someone told me that I would have two children one day....when I was 10 or 15 or 20 something, I woulda' said, "no way, Jose". My passion was and still is finding the answer to the question, "WHY". So why did I choose to become a Mom, ditch my career, and get down to the dirty diaper business?

After meeting my husband, the "no way Jose" turned into, "well, maybe...but only because I know that YOU will be a great Dad, and will CO-PARENT".

Mixed in with that was a completely misdirected curiousity about what our offspring would look like. (This was before computer programs that could answer this question). I didn't think further about many things, like once you got 'em, you can't return 'em. You can't leave them crated while you're out and about...and that your dream may be just that...a dream, and the reality would be different.
****

My mother was incredible. She LOVED her children, and woulda' had 12 if her vericose veins hadn't been that bad...if she hadn't almost died after having #4 b/c of a blood clot with wanderlust. (#4 was and is my personal favorite sibling)

Being a mother has been the most challenging job I have ever had. It is not a "Hallmark moment"...it's been more of a boot camp that teaches me more about my strengths and weaknesses...how to ANSWER the question "Why" instead of just asking it...and an amazing way to recognize what my Mom sacrificed...with finesse and creativity and joy. I can't tell you how many times I called my Mom to say thanks...how in the heck did you pull this off?

This is a job for the brave of heart...for the soft of heart...for those who are willing to have themselves blended on high in the kiddie mixer...hoping that what pours out is better than what is poured in.

BTW, my hub is a great Dad....my children are beautiful...and I only think about returning them occassionally.

Franklin K. Peters ?-April 25, 2008

2008-04-25T10:02:00.000-07:00

Franklin enjoying a sun bath

Franklin Kitty Peters, aka Frankle beast, Frankie toes or Franks, died today from vaccine related fibro-sarcoma. He was a beloved member of the Peters family, and will be missed more than words can say.

We adopted him from Cats in the Cradle about 4 1/2 years ago. The first time I saw him, I remember thinking, "WOW! He looks like a mountain lion!" For Victor and I, it was love at first sight. Martin and Ava came with us to see him, and they too loved him. We took him home that day. They estimated his age to be about 4 to 5 years old.

Victor and Franklin were inseparable. In true animal compassion, Franklin would sleep with Victor at night. Victor has always had a terrible time sleeping, and this was a great comfort to him. Franklin was a very patient cat with Ava, who was then around 1 1/2. He also liked to slip under her crib and lay down while we were playing in her room. I tried not to love him, and wanted to think of him as "Victor's cat". I had lost a cat and still remembered the pain. But alas, through the years, he became part of each of our hearts.

Franklin never begged for people food, but relished his cat food as well as an occassional helping of tuna. He graciously endured a greyhound entering his life, and towards the end could be seen hanging out with that "stinky abomination of an animal". Franklin loved to talk, in true Siamese fashion, and the quietness of the house will haunt us all for some time to come.

We loved you, Franklin. You were a fine cat.

Franklin was lovingly cared for by the Cat Clinic of East Cobb.

Howling Red Dog

2008-04-14T06:20:00.000-07:00

What the heck is a "Roo" and what does it mean? Greyhounds by nature, are not barkers...but some do like to sing. This song is for all the lady greyhounds out there. Doesn't this sound haunting? Most of the time my hub can get him to sing happily...but this one sounds like, "I'm so lonely."
The lonely dog and I are off for a walk, and then a pawdicure.

Black hearse

2008-04-11T06:11:00.001-07:00

She had clothes in the dryer...her pantyhose hanging to dry....a cutting board on the counter with onions...her nightgown thrown off on her bed...her Jeep was in the driveway, but she was no longer there.

Her answering machine had messages from all her children, at first bright and cheery, and then becoming concerned as she did not call anyone back. ESPN was playing on the tv right by her bed....the ball game long over.

We are coming up on the one year anniversary of my Mother's death, and I am still numb...I still have her number on my cell phone...I dream of her sometimes. I miss her profoundly.

Sometimes, like this morning, I need to sift through the memories of what it was like...still in disbelief...still wanting to imagine her doing fine in her sweet house with the "Mother Mulberry" tree in the backyard. Yet, reality comes to roost and I feel devastated once more.

The most poignant moment of my life thus far, was following the black hearse that contained my Mother's body.

The results

2008-03-26T05:18:00.000-07:00

The vet called last week and let us know that Franklin does have fibro sarcoma. She said she estimates that he has about 2 months left, if that. We have not told the kids yet, and will be getting a game plan together to do so.

You would never know that he is "sick". Thankfully, the tumor does not have any nerves...but can grow to amazing proportions. He is still happily scarfing down food, jumping on the counter and giving Siamese dissertations whenever possible.

We have decided to forego the surgery route since the tumor is so large, and will give palliative care from here on out. The vet said that we would know when it was time to let him go.

I admire and don't understand the lengths that people will go for their beloved pets. Believe me, if this was a matter of a cyst, he'd be right in there....but I will not make his last few weeks or months on this earth painful ones. I wish we didn't have to travel this road, but since we do, we will do it with dignity, integrity and love...I hope.

Frankle Beast

2008-03-19T06:16:00.001-07:00

Our wonderful boy, Franklin, has grown a lump on the side of his neck....and the vet thinks it's Fibro-sarcoma. Franks had a biopsy done yesterday, and we will now the results at the end of the week. He is the best cat in the world.

I've got the fevah

2008-03-14T04:04:00.000-07:00

My family thinks I may have a problem...I'm in glorious denial. Ha. My beautiful foster hound may be adopted this wknd. To check out HER blog, see www.greyhoundadoption.org, click on adoption, then current, then scroll to near the bottom and click on BB's Filigree.

This blogging has been a great outlet for my creativity...it's one of those things that makes my heart sing.

My Crazy Foster Dog

2008-03-11T13:47:00.000-07:00

The Video says it all. Oy vay.

The Look

2008-03-11T10:53:00.001-07:00

Mud and Blood

2008-03-11T08:41:00.000-07:00

My son, Victor, had a bad spill on his bike. He is ok, but pretty banged up. Had to put the frog on front and banjo on back of the clip 'cause I'm not sure of how to make an AVI an WMV file.

Riding my bike was THE BEST thing in the world when I was a little girl...and believe me, I had some serious crashes...I thought my scrapes and bruises were a badge of courage. Now, as a Mom, we don't let our kids get as crazy...or, we can't let them out of our sight as much so they can get crazy...so when Victor appeared at the front door in THIS condition, it was pretty shocking. He'll be back in the saddle soon!

Guilty as charged?

2008-03-04T05:49:00.001-08:00

A guilty pleasure...torn between principles and jammin' out...I am one of those 40 somethings who loves XM's 80's channel....so I can bee-bop down the road hauling my kids and greyhounds and pretend I'm still a teenager. Remembering those old loves, and hates and that angst...well, maybe being older is better.

I also have a great "memory lane" collection in my iTunes folder that I can whip out and whip it good....because I AM the woman I have always dreamed of.

But I have stopped short of PAYING for any of Michael Jackson's music...because of principles. He is, well, scary...and likes little boys and has a ranch called Neverland with rides and stuff...and monkeys. So while his music is brilliant, he is not. BUT NOW I AM "THRILLED" because I can have my cake and eat it too....with just a wee bend of being uncomfortable. XM now has the Thriller channel, channel 63. I was singing along this morning and doing the high pitched "whoooos" and "jam ons"...(which I have always thought sounded more like "jambon", french for ham).

But the question remains...can I in good conscience listen with my kids in the car? Can I separate the man in the mirror with the guy who dangles his kid, "Blanket" out an open window?

All I know for sure is.... Billie Jean is not my lover....either.

Run away, run away

2008-01-23T05:03:00.000-08:00

I have gotten into spirituality lately...or perhaps I should say, the researching of spirituality (vs. religion). Reading books about Buddhism, Yoga etc. gives me insight into living my life differently. But transfering this information from an intellectual pursuit into daily life....well, sometimes I've been successful. The books I have delved into have never ASKED me to DO anything...they've been safe, I can view their idealogy from a safe distance. THIS book, however, challenges the reader to pick up her shovel and Work. Hmmmmmm. Caroline Myss even tells you how to do this. And even scarier for me, her book is based on St. Teresa of Avila's journey....St. Teresa was a Catholic nun from long ago.

Challenging the reader to become a mystic without a monastery...some of Myss' prose spoke to this infidel....

"As a contemporary mystic, you are measured by the quality of attitude you bring to all your tasks, by your capacity to be a model of generosity, and by challenging the fear that there is not enough to go around in this world-whether that is money, love, food, fame, power, attention, success or social position. Mystical service means modeling calm in chaos, kindness amid anger, forgiveness at all times, personal integrity--to live, in other words, mindful that every second offers a choice either to channel grace or to withhold it. (sic) Your goal in your practice is not perfection. Your goal is to live consciously and in accordance with the highest degree of truth that your soul can maintain."

She also brings up something that I'm familiar with, CHAOS.

"You focus on how you create chaos in this world, how you call it into your life to distract yourself and others, to cloud your and others' reason and confuse emotions. You ask yourself:
"Do I enjoy my ability to create chaos?"
"How often do I create chaos instead of tranquility?"
"Does chaos control me more than my inner guidance? If I were directed to trust and have faith that all would be well, would the chaos around me have more power over me than the message coming from my soul?"

Certainly some very interesting questions. With this book, I sometimes feel uncomfortable...almost queasy b/c it really shines light....now to decide to do the work? Stay tuned. I haven't run yet, but my sneakers are on!

The Red Dog

2008-01-21T16:28:00.001-08:00

Here's the "Red Dog" portion of my Blog title...his name is Canoe, racing name, Canuhemisaurus. Greyhound...red hound in his most fashionable Elvis coat...b/c he ain't nothin but a hound dog!

I adopted Canoe about a year and 1/2 ago...he will be 4 years old on February 1. As for me, I have certainly aged too since the fishing picture. Canoe is love....what a wonderful beast. Why greyhound? Funny...I wanted a "purebred" but also wanted to save a life...ah, greyhound, perfect match.

I have become active in the Southeastern Greyhound Association...and am surprised by my passion for these dogs and their lives. Next month I am going to JCKC in Monticello, Florida, previous home of the Red Dog to do a documentary about how these dogs come to us in Georgia. I am anxious to see this track which is the "end of the line" for many dogs...the others get adopted...like Canoe.

Many times in my life it has been easier for me to help animals than people. Animals don't have words or an agenda. Canoe lives in the present and burps loud, farts softly, and doesn't hide what's in his heart (or gut). He's a good role model for me.

My Mom

2008-01-20T18:47:00.000-08:00

Many years ago, almost 30 or so, my Mom chose to be an activist in our family of 7. I thank God that she did, for now, looking back on this picture, and then, as a little girl, this instilled a theme for my life, one of courage. Sometimes I do good by her....sometimes I feel that my life is but a shadow of her life...harnessing myself with her restrictions...her limitations...and her fear.

On this day, my father gathered my brothers and said they were going fishing...of course I wanted to go, but Pop said, "fishing is not for girls". My Mom broke out a sheet and some markers..I fashioned my fishing pole from a sunflower stem and some string...and by God, we marched to the pond...and by God, I caught that there fish you see in the picture. My father was flamboozled. He didn't know what to make of his wife and daughters...and he did not say much. Ooooo, I was proud...of myself and my Mom.