First said: Must to remember "PUSH PUBLISH, NOT SAVE
Life has returned to sort of kind of normal.
The Nephew had returned home to his fiancee and kids until last Monday. (after about two weeks at his parents, then about two weeks at home) He ended up back in the UW hospital with drain issues. This, we believe, has set back the surgery date again. It just seems like it's taking forever and the surgeon says Yes, it does take forever.
But he's gaining a little bit of weight. He doesn't have that concentration camp survivor look to him, more manorexic now. His sense of humor has returned, which made us really realize just how sick he was.
The sister-in-law got a boot the other day so she is a tiny bit more mobile. They will only allow 50 lbs weight bearing. All of us women just thought the same thing "Might as well be nothing at all."
Because it's a break in the foot, there aren't any screws and plates like in my leg. So, if I understand it right, she can rebreak the newly knit bones whereas I didn't have that concern as much. So, that just sucks.
Her shoulder won't be healed for two more months TWO. So, her arm spends a lot of it's time strapped across her belly. That is more miserable than a broken off foot like I had. (Kevin's description, not mine. It makes me wince/laugh)
I am still not working full-time. I am a miserable beast by the end of a week that consists of 32 hours. When I mention this to medical professionals, they say "Yes, that happens."
So, this is my sign from the universe to just work part-time. I'm just going to embrace it and be happy. And burn through all my sick leave. And de-accelerate our retirement plans a bit.
Working in social services right now is challenging. Because of the broken health care system, we are getting more clients with unaddressed mental health issues. It is so wearying.
Our race season doesn't start until the end of June, which is good because we're not remotely ready. First off: puppy. Second off: the engine is at the machine shop still and we're about $1000 away from being finished. We're not worried about it, per se, this is just unusual for us.
My niece graduates from high school in about a month. I can't believe this, time goes by so quickly. Also, she's the last one. The next graduations are going to be in the "grand" category, my nieces and nephew's kids. The eldest of the bigs will graduate in 2021. Isn't that MIND BLOWING? I graduated in the 1900's!!!!
I want to work on the unfinished part of the backyard with some native ground plants but see above referenced $1000. Also, it's on a hill and I'm not able to manuever that well yet.
I started a book by Lisa Kleypas and it's good. But I haven't been able to return to it due to life. Very frustrating. She is another author from the Pacific Northwest so that's happy. Kristin Hannah is the other that I like. (thanks to Swistle) but not Debbie Macomber, she's one of the few authors that I couldn't finish the book.
It's time to switch out the closet with summer clothing and I really am going to do it but it seems silly to go work in a closet when it so beautiful outside. But because it's beautiful outside, I need to have my summer clothing.
Because my main source of entertainment has been television lately, I've become shall-we-say very interested in entertainment news. Not tabloid stuff, although I find TMZ Live on Sirius very entertaining, but Entertainment Weekly, Hollywood Reporter kind of news.
The Upfronts are happening right now where networks announce their programming changes. I watched notifications in my email as this show and that show was cancelled.
Sidenote: when did "cancelled" get changed to "canceled"?
I'm so bummed that The New Normal was cancelled. It was like an irreverent (more) Modern Family and I really liked it. The other shows that were cancelled I wasn't that surprised about. Oh, except Southland. WTH TNT with cancelling Southland? A very good, real, drama. Yet reality television continues to exist.
It just seems like shows aren't on long enough to develop anymore. I don't understand it. It's also as if NBC is determined to be the lowest rated network, which is so strange after dominating for so many years.
I've been fascinated with the Jodi Arias trial. She reminds me of someone I know and it's provided me with quite a few chills down my spine. I watched the verdict be read while still at work. The only other verdict I've watched like that is OJ Simpsons. I'll remember that for always. The phone rang and it was my friend, all she said was "What the EFF just HAPPENED?!?"
So, that's about it. Trying to re-acquaint ourselves with normal.
13 May 2013
04 May 2013
The Bluest Skies You'll Ever See are in Seattle
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| or ninety minutes north of there. |
This is not color-corrected. Taken with my Droid through the windshield about an hour ago.
Jealous, much?
(:-D
Happy Spring y'all.
Lucy Lou Who
As far as puppies go, she's pretty good. She doesn't enjoy being outside alone but then, who does really?
She's done minimal amount of chewing or whining, nothing that makes me want to scream. She knows sit, lay down, down, and considers stay. She knows "come" but not if she's hot on the trail of something us mere humans can't see or comprehend. (that's the hound part of her, they tell us)
She does enjoy fetch but occasionally the ADD kicks in and she gets distracted.
She knows the difference between "Go to bed" (crate) and "Go to your pillow", which astounds me.
She likes to sleep. She has the best expression if you wake her up. I just accidentally made a noise and she looked at me like "EFF man, I'm sleeping here" like some stoner college kid.
We have toys in the living room for her that stay there, toys in the yard that stay out there and we try to keep toys in her crate, just for the crate. But she'll disappear for a minute or two then the next thing you hear is her bunny-hopping down the hallway because she's freed her toys from their fate in the box.
She knows funny commands. If I say "UH OH" loudly, she scoots away from what caused the exclamation and lays down with her head between her paws.
And I swear to god, she does the "Aren't I cute?" thing when she's being naughty. Yes, you are cute but you're going to Daisy Hill Puppy Farm if you steal my books again.
She knows "Shush", except when there are birds around. Birds must be yelled at.
Like Missy, she learned "Out of the kitchen" and "Back Up", which are mutual commands usually. She, too, has learned to lay down *just* at the edge of the kitchen floor. I think Missy is teaching her the way of things from beyond. I guess that's what I get for hitting her with the truck.
Oh, and that. Yep, we've gotten to a point where we can lightly joke about that. Things like "We know what you do to dogs..." If you can't joke about it, then what's the point. It doesn't take the pure awfulness away.
I do wonder if Missy and Aussie (our first dog) are somewhere yelling "We weren't allowed on your lap!" (80+ pound dogs so: no) and "We didn't get to ride IN the truck with you! This sucks!"
I do see where perhaps it was a good thing that we didn't have kids:
We don't like people touching our stuff. (she stole a paperback book off the shelf)
We don't like clutter
Yet, we buy toys we don't need.
We are desperately close to "We can't because of the puppy..."
We just want to sit and relax. No we don't want to chase the red dot, chase the red dot, chase the red dot, CHASE THE RED DOT".
I do realize that getting an "overlap dog" while Missy was still with us would probably not have worked. a) she thought she was a people and didn't like other dogs b) someone touching her stuff and c) Lucy Lou is 135 miles per hour, often.
I picture Missy just laying on her pillow with the expression of "Make it stop, FTLOG."
I am trying not to post endless pictures of her on the facebook. I did post one with a funny caption yet I have tens of them on my phone. I'm purposefully not being that person. Even though she really is cute.
She's done minimal amount of chewing or whining, nothing that makes me want to scream. She knows sit, lay down, down, and considers stay. She knows "come" but not if she's hot on the trail of something us mere humans can't see or comprehend. (that's the hound part of her, they tell us)
She does enjoy fetch but occasionally the ADD kicks in and she gets distracted.
She knows the difference between "Go to bed" (crate) and "Go to your pillow", which astounds me.
She likes to sleep. She has the best expression if you wake her up. I just accidentally made a noise and she looked at me like "EFF man, I'm sleeping here" like some stoner college kid.
We have toys in the living room for her that stay there, toys in the yard that stay out there and we try to keep toys in her crate, just for the crate. But she'll disappear for a minute or two then the next thing you hear is her bunny-hopping down the hallway because she's freed her toys from their fate in the box.
She knows funny commands. If I say "UH OH" loudly, she scoots away from what caused the exclamation and lays down with her head between her paws.
And I swear to god, she does the "Aren't I cute?" thing when she's being naughty. Yes, you are cute but you're going to Daisy Hill Puppy Farm if you steal my books again.
She knows "Shush", except when there are birds around. Birds must be yelled at.
Like Missy, she learned "Out of the kitchen" and "Back Up", which are mutual commands usually. She, too, has learned to lay down *just* at the edge of the kitchen floor. I think Missy is teaching her the way of things from beyond. I guess that's what I get for hitting her with the truck.
Oh, and that. Yep, we've gotten to a point where we can lightly joke about that. Things like "We know what you do to dogs..." If you can't joke about it, then what's the point. It doesn't take the pure awfulness away.
I do wonder if Missy and Aussie (our first dog) are somewhere yelling "We weren't allowed on your lap!" (80+ pound dogs so: no) and "We didn't get to ride IN the truck with you! This sucks!"
I do see where perhaps it was a good thing that we didn't have kids:
We don't like people touching our stuff. (she stole a paperback book off the shelf)
We don't like clutter
Yet, we buy toys we don't need.
We are desperately close to "We can't because of the puppy..."
We just want to sit and relax. No we don't want to chase the red dot, chase the red dot, chase the red dot, CHASE THE RED DOT".
I do realize that getting an "overlap dog" while Missy was still with us would probably not have worked. a) she thought she was a people and didn't like other dogs b) someone touching her stuff and c) Lucy Lou is 135 miles per hour, often.
I picture Missy just laying on her pillow with the expression of "Make it stop, FTLOG."
I am trying not to post endless pictures of her on the facebook. I did post one with a funny caption yet I have tens of them on my phone. I'm purposefully not being that person. Even though she really is cute.
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| C'mon |
30 April 2013
Alert Annoyance
The other night we were awakened by alarms on our phones. It was disorienting because it wasn't the alarm clock sound nor text alert noise. It turns out that it was an Amber Alert that a child had been abducted in Montana but the car had Washington State plates.
My first thought was "REALLY? Who is able to be 'alert' at four in the morning?" My second thought was "Well, there *are* people up and on the roads at this hour and what if they did see them?"
As we live near the Canadian border, I imagine we will get these texts from time-to-time but in this instance, we weren't near where the people were headed/lived. (They were caught in Pierce County, three, almost four counties away = 150 + miles)
I felt a little selfish for being annoyed, as these texts do mean that a CHILD is MISSING. But certainly, there has to be a better way.
This morning, an article talking about this very thing was in the local newspaper:
Sending the new federal alerts is a joint effort between federal, state and local agencies, as well as wireless carriers.
When the State Patrol approves an Amber Alert in Washington, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children sends a statewide wireless alert. Other states have guidelines for which hours of the day the text alerts can be sent, but Washington authorities haven’t yet set such a policy.
They will now, Mead said. “Erring on the side of having no guidance, (the national center) pushed the button,” Mead said. “We hope to have it in place that (future alerts) won’t be going out at 3:30 in the morning.”
The exact restraints are a work in progress, but Mead said a more likely time for messages would be around 6:30 a.m., he said.“The whole purpose of the alert is so we can get the public’s help, and when the vast majority of the public is fast asleep ... the last thing we want to do is give people incentive to opt out of it,” Mead said.
My first thought was "REALLY? Who is able to be 'alert' at four in the morning?" My second thought was "Well, there *are* people up and on the roads at this hour and what if they did see them?"
As we live near the Canadian border, I imagine we will get these texts from time-to-time but in this instance, we weren't near where the people were headed/lived. (They were caught in Pierce County, three, almost four counties away = 150 + miles)
I felt a little selfish for being annoyed, as these texts do mean that a CHILD is MISSING. But certainly, there has to be a better way.
This morning, an article talking about this very thing was in the local newspaper:
State Patrol officials concede that the timing of an Amber
Alert text message sent to cell phones across Washington early Sunday
wasn’t ideal, but the outcome was. A 1-year-old boy whom
authorities said was taken by his biological parents from his custodial
grandparents’ Montana home Saturday night was found safe in Fife Sunday
morning, and was scheduled to be retrieved by his grandmother from Child
Protective Services Monday.
“We’ve gotten probably about a dozen
or so emails or phone calls from people who are unhappy with the timing
of (the text alert), and I’m sympathetic with those concerns,” State
Patrol Lt. Ron Mead said. “It’s still emerging technology that is far
from perfect.” That technology is the federal Wireless Emergency
Alert system, which started sending Amber Alerts Jan. 1 in areas where
authorities think a missing child might be. Sunday was the first time
it’s been used in Washington for that purpose, Mead said.
When the State Patrol approves an Amber Alert in Washington, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children sends a statewide wireless alert. Other states have guidelines for which hours of the day the text alerts can be sent, but Washington authorities haven’t yet set such a policy.
They will now, Mead said. “Erring on the side of having no guidance, (the national center) pushed the button,” Mead said. “We hope to have it in place that (future alerts) won’t be going out at 3:30 in the morning.”
The exact restraints are a work in progress, but Mead said a more likely time for messages would be around 6:30 a.m., he said.“The whole purpose of the alert is so we can get the public’s help, and when the vast majority of the public is fast asleep ... the last thing we want to do is give people incentive to opt out of it,” Mead said.
I guess it's a good thing in the long run. The child was quickly found, crackhead parents are in jail (yea!) and we went back to sleep.
Have you received these alerts? Are they a hassle or a good idea?
23 April 2013
Things that Make Me Happy
Things that make me happy right now:
Disney Print Ads using famous people portrayed as fairy tale characters, so beautiful and dreamy.
Click Here for more
Also in the commercial category: the AT&T ads with the kids. I told Kevin if he ever wonders what he sounds like with the Littles, it's like that. I can watch the werewolf one a hundred times, it reminds me of girl little SO MUCH.
Also, look up "Fresh Perspectives" on the youtube. It's where the idea originated.
Kevin and I went to a birthday dinner a few weeks ago and we were LOVING the music that was playing. It was all singer-songwriter stuff that wasn't Barry Manilow and Karen Carpenter and we kept saying "Oh, I haven't heard this in forever." Kevin finally asked and it's The Bridge channel on Sirius/XM. Totally worth a listen when you need to just relax or feel confident because you know all the words.
Even though I don't wear dresses at all, I am so enjoying the resurgence of the 1960's dresses! They look good on everyone, it seems. It's nice to see everyone covered and not shabby as well.
My two favorite songs right now:
Chocolate Doughnut holes, specifically Franz brand. They're like a little treat and one doesn't feel guilty because "I ate a whole doughnut!" Kevin thought the logic was crazy but guess what he had for breakfast on Sunday. Yep.
When Swistle live-tweets reading People magazine, there are few more enjoyable things on the interwebs when that happens.
The 80's documentary series on the National Geographic channel. I binge watched it all at once and have rewatched a bit of it again already. Even though I was alive during that time, it's remarkable what a little perspective does. Also: what a person forgets.
Sweet Caroline.
Patton Oswalt:
Disney Print Ads using famous people portrayed as fairy tale characters, so beautiful and dreamy.
Click Here for more
 | |
| C'mon, David Beckham. What more do you need? |
Also in the commercial category: the AT&T ads with the kids. I told Kevin if he ever wonders what he sounds like with the Littles, it's like that. I can watch the werewolf one a hundred times, it reminds me of girl little SO MUCH.
Also, look up "Fresh Perspectives" on the youtube. It's where the idea originated.
Kevin and I went to a birthday dinner a few weeks ago and we were LOVING the music that was playing. It was all singer-songwriter stuff that wasn't Barry Manilow and Karen Carpenter and we kept saying "Oh, I haven't heard this in forever." Kevin finally asked and it's The Bridge channel on Sirius/XM. Totally worth a listen when you need to just relax or feel confident because you know all the words.
Even though I don't wear dresses at all, I am so enjoying the resurgence of the 1960's dresses! They look good on everyone, it seems. It's nice to see everyone covered and not shabby as well.
My two favorite songs right now:
(we cranked this song in the van on the way back from the Grand Canyon. I think we scared my brother and sister-in-law a bit.
One of my favorite memories now)
One of my favorite memories now)
Chocolate Doughnut holes, specifically Franz brand. They're like a little treat and one doesn't feel guilty because "I ate a whole doughnut!" Kevin thought the logic was crazy but guess what he had for breakfast on Sunday. Yep.
When Swistle live-tweets reading People magazine, there are few more enjoyable things on the interwebs when that happens.
The 80's documentary series on the National Geographic channel. I binge watched it all at once and have rewatched a bit of it again already. Even though I was alive during that time, it's remarkable what a little perspective does. Also: what a person forgets.
Sweet Caroline.
Patton Oswalt:
I remember, when 9/11 went down, my reaction was, "Well, I've had it with humanity."
But I was wrong. I don't know what's going to be revealed to be behind all of this mayhem. One human insect or a poisonous mass of broken sociopaths.
But here's what I DO know. If it's one person or a HUNDRED people, that number is not even a fraction of a fraction of a fraction of a percent of the population on this planet. You watch the videos of the carnage and there are people running TOWARDS the destruction to help out. (Thanks FAKE Gallery founder and owner Paul Kozlowski for pointing this out to me). This is a giant planet and we're lucky to live on it but there are prices and penalties incurred for the daily miracle of existence. One of them is, every once in awhile, the wiring of a tiny sliver of the species gets snarled and they're pointed towards darkness.
But the vast majority stands against that darkness and, like white blood cells attacking a virus, they dilute and weaken and eventually wash away the evil doers and, more importantly, the damage they wreak. This is beyond religion or creed or nation. We would not be here if humanity were inherently evil. We'd have eaten ourselves alive long ago.
So when you spot violence, or bigotry, or intolerance or fear or just garden-variety misogyny, hatred or ignorance, just look it in the eye and think, "The good outnumber you, and we always will."
But I was wrong. I don't know what's going to be revealed to be behind all of this mayhem. One human insect or a poisonous mass of broken sociopaths.
But here's what I DO know. If it's one person or a HUNDRED people, that number is not even a fraction of a fraction of a fraction of a percent of the population on this planet. You watch the videos of the carnage and there are people running TOWARDS the destruction to help out. (Thanks FAKE Gallery founder and owner Paul Kozlowski for pointing this out to me). This is a giant planet and we're lucky to live on it but there are prices and penalties incurred for the daily miracle of existence. One of them is, every once in awhile, the wiring of a tiny sliver of the species gets snarled and they're pointed towards darkness.
But the vast majority stands against that darkness and, like white blood cells attacking a virus, they dilute and weaken and eventually wash away the evil doers and, more importantly, the damage they wreak. This is beyond religion or creed or nation. We would not be here if humanity were inherently evil. We'd have eaten ourselves alive long ago.
So when you spot violence, or bigotry, or intolerance or fear or just garden-variety misogyny, hatred or ignorance, just look it in the eye and think, "The good outnumber you, and we always will."
13 April 2013
A Little Bit of Shiny
The cause of my sister-in-law's accident was determined to be an "unsafe lane change" by a car that was unscathed during the accident.
Whilst traveling southbound, car A made a lane change from the right lane to the left lane to accommodate for entering traffic. She accidentally cut off car B in the left lane, who then over-reacted and swerved, traveled across the median, and striking the sister-in-law.
So: horrible. For everyone involved.
Here is the most lovely thing:
The woman in Car A saw what she had caused and stopped her car. Instead of going on and hoping for the best and forgetting it ever happened, she stopped her car.
AND THEN, she ran across the median to the s-i-l's car and CLIMBED INSIDE to comfort and care for her. She sat in the backseat amongst broken glass and broken debris to hold her hand while apologizing and promising that she would not leave her side until she left in the ambulance.
Sidenote: to show how "lucky" my s-i-l is, there was a conference for EMT's and ER nurses that had just let out so there were a crazy amount of nurses & EMT's with her seconds after her accident happened because they were traveling home.
The other day, I was over at the house visiting and the s-i-l showed me a get well card. It was a really pretty one with a really nice sentiment, someone had clearly taken their time in choosing it.
It was from the woman that had caused the accident and she had written a long personal note apologizing for causing the accident and stating that she was praying for her recovery and offered to help her in any way that she possibly could.
I just thought that was so kind and thoughtful. It gives a person a little faith in humanity and a little bit of shiny in a dark time.
Whilst traveling southbound, car A made a lane change from the right lane to the left lane to accommodate for entering traffic. She accidentally cut off car B in the left lane, who then over-reacted and swerved, traveled across the median, and striking the sister-in-law.
So: horrible. For everyone involved.
Here is the most lovely thing:
The woman in Car A saw what she had caused and stopped her car. Instead of going on and hoping for the best and forgetting it ever happened, she stopped her car.
AND THEN, she ran across the median to the s-i-l's car and CLIMBED INSIDE to comfort and care for her. She sat in the backseat amongst broken glass and broken debris to hold her hand while apologizing and promising that she would not leave her side until she left in the ambulance.
Sidenote: to show how "lucky" my s-i-l is, there was a conference for EMT's and ER nurses that had just let out so there were a crazy amount of nurses & EMT's with her seconds after her accident happened because they were traveling home.
The other day, I was over at the house visiting and the s-i-l showed me a get well card. It was a really pretty one with a really nice sentiment, someone had clearly taken their time in choosing it.
It was from the woman that had caused the accident and she had written a long personal note apologizing for causing the accident and stating that she was praying for her recovery and offered to help her in any way that she possibly could.
I just thought that was so kind and thoughtful. It gives a person a little faith in humanity and a little bit of shiny in a dark time.
10 April 2013
A Good Idea Indeed
The wisdom of getting a puppy when everything else has been falling apart is to be questioned, for sure. That being said, with each day I feel more confident in our decision.
It gives Kevin and I something to look forward to and focus on. The puppy is fun for the sister-in-law and the nephew. She gives them wiggles and nose boops galore.
But this happy little incident happened the other day and made me think "This is perfect timing."
We have an outdoor space for the puppy that has a dog house, grass, and a run. After much discussing, Kevin and his dad decided that a fence is a better idea. I won't say they were *wrong* but they were technically incorrect in their decision.
I put the puppy out there the first morning and went to work. I was at work just a few minutes when my mother-in-law phoned wondering if I was home. The puppy was at her house as she is a ninja and tunneled out of her space in mere minutes.
The in-laws agreed to babysit the puppy for the remainder of the week until we can anti-ninja her space. She spent her time in their house and in her crate at our house while we were gone.
The puppy LOVES, LOVES!!!! Kevin's dad. OMG they are besties forever. She jumps on his lap and gives him kisses and wiggles and plays and they are both just joyous together.
I come home nearly the same time every day. On this afternoon, I stopped at the sister-in-laws first (clearly visible & audible from the in-laws) for a few minutes then came home. As I am pulling up the road to our driveway, I see Kev's dad hurriedly rushing toward our house to break out the puppy.
By the time I parked and gathered my things, out comes one excited puppy and very happy father-in-law. They took a walk together and had a grand old time.
So, yes, getting the puppy was a good idea after all. For everyone.
It gives Kevin and I something to look forward to and focus on. The puppy is fun for the sister-in-law and the nephew. She gives them wiggles and nose boops galore.
But this happy little incident happened the other day and made me think "This is perfect timing."
We have an outdoor space for the puppy that has a dog house, grass, and a run. After much discussing, Kevin and his dad decided that a fence is a better idea. I won't say they were *wrong* but they were technically incorrect in their decision.
I put the puppy out there the first morning and went to work. I was at work just a few minutes when my mother-in-law phoned wondering if I was home. The puppy was at her house as she is a ninja and tunneled out of her space in mere minutes.
The in-laws agreed to babysit the puppy for the remainder of the week until we can anti-ninja her space. She spent her time in their house and in her crate at our house while we were gone.
The puppy LOVES, LOVES!!!! Kevin's dad. OMG they are besties forever. She jumps on his lap and gives him kisses and wiggles and plays and they are both just joyous together.
I come home nearly the same time every day. On this afternoon, I stopped at the sister-in-laws first (clearly visible & audible from the in-laws) for a few minutes then came home. As I am pulling up the road to our driveway, I see Kev's dad hurriedly rushing toward our house to break out the puppy.
By the time I parked and gathered my things, out comes one excited puppy and very happy father-in-law. They took a walk together and had a grand old time.
So, yes, getting the puppy was a good idea after all. For everyone.
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| "I have no idea what you're talking about. I would never tunnel out because I am a good girl" |
08 April 2013
25 Pounds of Happy
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| Hi, My name is Lucy but they also call me Missy and Lucky and sometimes all three |
It's very soon, as an old friend wisely asked, but we've been talking about getting a new puppy for months. Also, if we were to get another dog, it would have to be now or it will be the busy part of the summer when we wouldn't have the time to devote to training a puppy or if we wait then it would be too close to Winter. So: now.
We stopped by the humane society where we got Aussie and Missy "just to look" (according to Kevin) and it turned a bit into a therapy session. The wonderful lady in charge asked if we had any dogs and Kevin explained what happened to Missy.
To me, there was a glimmer of doubt that she was going to say Nope, you can't have a dog. Instead she said that it happens so much more often than people think. She then asked if Missy had been losing her hearing. When Kevin said yes, she gestured "Well, there you go then. That's usually what happens."
Anyway...
Lucy is a hound. Not a colloquial hound but an actual hound. Everyone says she is part Beagle but she doesn't have the traditional markings of one beyond a baying ability that can be heard for counties. And those floppy ears. She looks like a miniature shepherd. She weighs 25 pounds, is about a foot tall, and doesn't seem to have much more growth left. Compared to Missy, who was 80 lbs and Aussie who was almost 100 lbs. she seems tiny.
She has some training, thank god. She comes when called unless she sees Kevin's dad Who Is Her Bestest Friend EVER OMG, she sits, she lays down and she's considering working on staying.
She isn't a ball dog but she does like toys. Neither of our dogs have liked toys so this is new territory for us. Sidenote: pet stores has chew toys that look like real animals. Give me a moment while I just say EEEWWW. She does like to chew a bit but stops as soon as she knows you've seen her. This makes me wonder what will find that I haven't seen her chewing.
Originally we were considering Abby as a name but Kevin woke up the first morning and chose Lucy. It's turned into Lucy Loo and Lucky, Missy, Lucy.
Mostly we like people names for dogs and names that we aren't going to feel stupid yelling.
Welcome Home Lucy!
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| Add caption |
04 April 2013
News & Notes Family Edition
I have decided that if anyone played an April Fool Day prank on anyone in the family, they are going to get socked in the nose, because really.
Family update:
Sister-in-law is freaking indestructible. She went to the store with the parents to get supplies for Easter. She did a load of laundry. She is in a wheelchair AND only can use one hand. She has surgery on Tuesday to repair her shoulder.
Nephew...sigh...The Nephew is okay. Just okay. He's not gaining weight and he's been home for a week and a half. They've been adjusting his TPN (iv food) and he's on a clear foods diet but alas, not so much on gaining weight. 150 lbs. is where he is hovering. We are trying not to freak out. Also, he was briefly hospitalized for blood clots in his leg. Now the lucky boy gets to give himself shots.
My father-in-law has decided to work in our rock garden by adding a new rock wall. 75 years old and can kick all of our asses.
I spent some time on Friday washing the dog bowls and her bed. I put them all away because it was a little too much for the both of us. I left out the outside bowls because Lucky will empty Missy's water bowl on a daily basis. We gave our adirondack chairs to the family. I think seeing the chairs she laid in all day empty was the hardest part for me.
Over the weekend I was able to work in the yard, deck, and rock garden. I haven't done that in a year so that felt good. A little stiff today and that's okay. *Someone* will be happy to hear that the fake flowers are removed, they were looking a little weather beaten and sad.
We didn't have the monkeys on Easter, they were at their dads so Easter was low key. We'll have them next weekend and then the festivities will commence. They're looking forward to the egg hunt because Uncle Kevin, Uncle Christopher, and Daddy make it challenging.
Work has ramped up as this is the fundraising season. Every year I forget how crazy-making March, April, and May are. Every year I forget how mind-numbingly boring the summer is. It's been six years and one would think I'd have this figured out by now.
Okay poppets. I have a little good news but it warrants it's own post so tune in tomorrow.
Family update:
Sister-in-law is freaking indestructible. She went to the store with the parents to get supplies for Easter. She did a load of laundry. She is in a wheelchair AND only can use one hand. She has surgery on Tuesday to repair her shoulder.
Nephew...sigh...The Nephew is okay. Just okay. He's not gaining weight and he's been home for a week and a half. They've been adjusting his TPN (iv food) and he's on a clear foods diet but alas, not so much on gaining weight. 150 lbs. is where he is hovering. We are trying not to freak out. Also, he was briefly hospitalized for blood clots in his leg. Now the lucky boy gets to give himself shots.
My father-in-law has decided to work in our rock garden by adding a new rock wall. 75 years old and can kick all of our asses.
I spent some time on Friday washing the dog bowls and her bed. I put them all away because it was a little too much for the both of us. I left out the outside bowls because Lucky will empty Missy's water bowl on a daily basis. We gave our adirondack chairs to the family. I think seeing the chairs she laid in all day empty was the hardest part for me.
Over the weekend I was able to work in the yard, deck, and rock garden. I haven't done that in a year so that felt good. A little stiff today and that's okay. *Someone* will be happy to hear that the fake flowers are removed, they were looking a little weather beaten and sad.
We didn't have the monkeys on Easter, they were at their dads so Easter was low key. We'll have them next weekend and then the festivities will commence. They're looking forward to the egg hunt because Uncle Kevin, Uncle Christopher, and Daddy make it challenging.
Work has ramped up as this is the fundraising season. Every year I forget how crazy-making March, April, and May are. Every year I forget how mind-numbingly boring the summer is. It's been six years and one would think I'd have this figured out by now.
Okay poppets. I have a little good news but it warrants it's own post so tune in tomorrow.
29 March 2013
Another Awful Day
So we had another awful day in the series of awful days.
We had to put our dog down yesterday. I wish that it was because she was thirteen years old or because she was sick. Instead, we had an accident.
The dogs, Missy & Lucky, always run along side of the vehicles when we come up the driveway. Yesterday as I was going from one house to the next in the 4runner, both dogs were running next to me. I don't know what happened but somehow Missy got in front of my truck and I hit her. I never saw her, she usually runs alongside the door.
I stopped and got out while she yelled at me then she laid down in the driveway. I called Kevin and then called his dad. While Kevin came home, his dad helped me try to figure out how badly she was hurt. Then my sister-in-law's father also came up to sit with us.
Missy didn't complain, she just laid down and tried to catch her breath. I called the vet who, of course, wanted us to bring her down. As I was talking to Kevin on the phone, Missy got up, walked over to me, and stood. She let me pet her for quite a little while before laying back down by my feet.
Kevin got home and Missy got up to see him. He petted her, trying to figure out what was wrong. We backed the parents van up to her to take her to the vet and this superhero of a dog helped us put her in the van. She couldn't jump up but she sure tried.
We drove down to the vet and on the way, Missy sat up and began to watch out the window. Her tail would wag a little when Kevin called back to her. I began to think that she was going to be fine.
The vet actually crawled into the back of the van with Kevin to check out Missy. His name is Jason and he seems like a great person. He said that Missy was having troubles breathing and he would take her for an exam and x-rays.
Kevin and Jason wrapped Missy up and took her into the exam room.
Missy is an alpha dog, she doesn't like other dogs - other than Lucky - but she likes people. I think she thinks she is a people. But at the vet, she is the most passive dog on the planet. She actually kind of snuggled against the vet when he took her.
It took about twenty minutes for the exam and the vet came out. He showed us the x-ray to show us her injuries. She had broken ribs and internal damage. Even if she was a young dog, her prognosis was dire.
Again, Jason the vet is a wonderful person. He just presented the facts then simply stated that it was in Missy's best interest to be put down.
Kevin just lost it. I was already crying and the vet had to swallow hard a few times as well. He left us in the exam room and we left shortly thereafter.
I feel awful. I can't believe that it happened and I can't believe that I was the one that hit the dog. On the other hand, I'm glad it was me and not Kevin. He would never forgive himself, not that I think I ever will.
We had to put our dog down yesterday. I wish that it was because she was thirteen years old or because she was sick. Instead, we had an accident.
The dogs, Missy & Lucky, always run along side of the vehicles when we come up the driveway. Yesterday as I was going from one house to the next in the 4runner, both dogs were running next to me. I don't know what happened but somehow Missy got in front of my truck and I hit her. I never saw her, she usually runs alongside the door.
I stopped and got out while she yelled at me then she laid down in the driveway. I called Kevin and then called his dad. While Kevin came home, his dad helped me try to figure out how badly she was hurt. Then my sister-in-law's father also came up to sit with us.
Missy didn't complain, she just laid down and tried to catch her breath. I called the vet who, of course, wanted us to bring her down. As I was talking to Kevin on the phone, Missy got up, walked over to me, and stood. She let me pet her for quite a little while before laying back down by my feet.
Kevin got home and Missy got up to see him. He petted her, trying to figure out what was wrong. We backed the parents van up to her to take her to the vet and this superhero of a dog helped us put her in the van. She couldn't jump up but she sure tried.
We drove down to the vet and on the way, Missy sat up and began to watch out the window. Her tail would wag a little when Kevin called back to her. I began to think that she was going to be fine.
The vet actually crawled into the back of the van with Kevin to check out Missy. His name is Jason and he seems like a great person. He said that Missy was having troubles breathing and he would take her for an exam and x-rays.
Kevin and Jason wrapped Missy up and took her into the exam room.
Missy is an alpha dog, she doesn't like other dogs - other than Lucky - but she likes people. I think she thinks she is a people. But at the vet, she is the most passive dog on the planet. She actually kind of snuggled against the vet when he took her.
It took about twenty minutes for the exam and the vet came out. He showed us the x-ray to show us her injuries. She had broken ribs and internal damage. Even if she was a young dog, her prognosis was dire.
Again, Jason the vet is a wonderful person. He just presented the facts then simply stated that it was in Missy's best interest to be put down.
Kevin just lost it. I was already crying and the vet had to swallow hard a few times as well. He left us in the exam room and we left shortly thereafter.
I feel awful. I can't believe that it happened and I can't believe that I was the one that hit the dog. On the other hand, I'm glad it was me and not Kevin. He would never forgive himself, not that I think I ever will.
 | |
| Goodbye you crazy, old dog |
26 March 2013
A Glimmer of Happy in the Drama
The kids came up to see their dad for the first time in three weeks on Sunday. They, of course, came over to see us as well. After awhile they went outside to play.
Hide and Seek is still popular with them and they love playing it up here where there are three houses to hide around, under, inside.
Boy Little came through the house as a shortcut to hide from his brothers, in one door and out the other. Kevin was sitting watching television and looked at me like "What the..." but I just laughed because it happened many times when they lived here. Oh, and they're six. (almost seven)
A little while passed then the other Boy Little came into the house.
"Kewin, can I hide in here from them?"
"Yes, where are you going to hide?"
"In here..." Here was our bedroom. Kevin said "No, buddy, come out here. We'll make sure they don't see you."
He reluctantly came and hid between the couch & coffee table, in front of me. Our living room has lots of windows so it was a wise choice. I moved the coffee table & put my feet up so if his siblings did come looking, he wouldn't be so obvious.
While we were waiting, we talked. "Who is playing?"
He listed all his siblings except the eldest.
"Where is he? In the house, being lame?" I asked.
He sighed, knowingly and replied "Most likely."
Then sure enough, C-2 came in looking for his brother. Kevin distracted him then sent him on his way.
"You owe me, punk." (Kevin calls the littles punks and it makes them/me laugh)
Boy little was quiet for a beat then tentatively said - from his hiding place - "What do I owe you?"
Kevin said "I don't know but it's going to be BIG."
Boy was quiet for a minute then quietly said "But, I don't have anything..."
(I know, right? Killing me with the cuteness.)
Kevin said "Well, I'm sure you have something. You have toys."
Boy thought about it a minute and said "I don't have anything and you don't Want my toys so..." His tone getting braver with each word.
How did we ever live in a world without these kids?
Hide and Seek is still popular with them and they love playing it up here where there are three houses to hide around, under, inside.
Boy Little came through the house as a shortcut to hide from his brothers, in one door and out the other. Kevin was sitting watching television and looked at me like "What the..." but I just laughed because it happened many times when they lived here. Oh, and they're six. (almost seven)
A little while passed then the other Boy Little came into the house.
"Kewin, can I hide in here from them?"
"Yes, where are you going to hide?"
"In here..." Here was our bedroom. Kevin said "No, buddy, come out here. We'll make sure they don't see you."
He reluctantly came and hid between the couch & coffee table, in front of me. Our living room has lots of windows so it was a wise choice. I moved the coffee table & put my feet up so if his siblings did come looking, he wouldn't be so obvious.
While we were waiting, we talked. "Who is playing?"
He listed all his siblings except the eldest.
"Where is he? In the house, being lame?" I asked.
He sighed, knowingly and replied "Most likely."
Then sure enough, C-2 came in looking for his brother. Kevin distracted him then sent him on his way.
"You owe me, punk." (Kevin calls the littles punks and it makes them/me laugh)
Boy little was quiet for a beat then tentatively said - from his hiding place - "What do I owe you?"
Kevin said "I don't know but it's going to be BIG."
Boy was quiet for a minute then quietly said "But, I don't have anything..."
(I know, right? Killing me with the cuteness.)
Kevin said "Well, I'm sure you have something. You have toys."
Boy thought about it a minute and said "I don't have anything and you don't Want my toys so..." His tone getting braver with each word.
How did we ever live in a world without these kids?
Seriously
Well the fun just keeps rolling along here. As we made plans to have our nephew come home to his parents house on Saturday, our sister-in-law was in a horrible car crash on Friday.
No one, including us, can BELIEVE that this is happening so it's okay if you call me a liar.
My sister-in-law was injured but so, so, so lucky to be alive. She was hit head on AND rear-ended on the freeway. A car came from the opposite traveling lanes and hit her head on thus resulting in her being rear-ended by a Chevy truck.
Word to the wise: Honda Accords can really take a hit. It is virtually unrecognizable but for the passenger compartment. The airbags deployed as well. She said she would like to have another one when it's time. The only reason I recognized the car was the sticker on the window.
Sidebar: we went to find her glasses, which were under the broken drivers seat, in the backseat. I'm glad we went instead of the b-i-l, it was difficult enough for us. We debated taking pictures for insurance purposes or morbid curiosity of others but decided against it. Turns out that someone had one from the actual accident scene. *shudder*
She has a broken foot (3 bones), a broken collar bone, a damaged shoulder and knee, a broken rib and a cracked rib, and bruising all over her body, including her sternum. Unfortunately (in a long line of unfortunatelys) it is the shoulder opposite to the broken foot. She can do no weight bearing whatsoever (sound familiar?) for six weeks. The p/t and nurses at the hospital taught her how to manuever in a wheelchair so she can go potty and do her self care stuff. AND we are still in the maybe category of whether or not surgery will be required for the shoulder.
I teased her that she Way Outdid me. Way. Outdid.
Now there are two damaged & sick people next door. I walked in yesterday with supplies and just about burst into tears. The s-i-l in the recliner with the wheelchair next to her and the Nephew on the couch, both looking miserable, is nearly too much to take.
I wish I had a shiny side to this. I'm struggling to find one now and I can *always* find a shiny side. I can only think "At least they are under one roof".
No one, including us, can BELIEVE that this is happening so it's okay if you call me a liar.
My sister-in-law was injured but so, so, so lucky to be alive. She was hit head on AND rear-ended on the freeway. A car came from the opposite traveling lanes and hit her head on thus resulting in her being rear-ended by a Chevy truck.
Word to the wise: Honda Accords can really take a hit. It is virtually unrecognizable but for the passenger compartment. The airbags deployed as well. She said she would like to have another one when it's time. The only reason I recognized the car was the sticker on the window.
Sidebar: we went to find her glasses, which were under the broken drivers seat, in the backseat. I'm glad we went instead of the b-i-l, it was difficult enough for us. We debated taking pictures for insurance purposes or morbid curiosity of others but decided against it. Turns out that someone had one from the actual accident scene. *shudder*
She has a broken foot (3 bones), a broken collar bone, a damaged shoulder and knee, a broken rib and a cracked rib, and bruising all over her body, including her sternum. Unfortunately (in a long line of unfortunatelys) it is the shoulder opposite to the broken foot. She can do no weight bearing whatsoever (sound familiar?) for six weeks. The p/t and nurses at the hospital taught her how to manuever in a wheelchair so she can go potty and do her self care stuff. AND we are still in the maybe category of whether or not surgery will be required for the shoulder.
I teased her that she Way Outdid me. Way. Outdid.
Now there are two damaged & sick people next door. I walked in yesterday with supplies and just about burst into tears. The s-i-l in the recliner with the wheelchair next to her and the Nephew on the couch, both looking miserable, is nearly too much to take.
I wish I had a shiny side to this. I'm struggling to find one now and I can *always* find a shiny side. I can only think "At least they are under one roof".
19 March 2013
Kitchen Confidential
As we know, I am not a cooker. (as evidenced by my use of the non-word "cooker", which actually reflects my years in early childhood ed, not the lack of cooking skills. Wait, what?)
I've gotten much better over the last few years but it is always going to be something that turns me into an adult sized toddler. "I. Can't. Want. To. Make. Dinner." Whine, foot stomp, hand flail.
I do make dinner though, nearly every night. Here is one thing that bothers me about cooking almost every single time:
It's not like I cook complicated menus but I do have multi-step processes, some requiring spices and measuring cups and such. This is where I get a little pissy:
Further evidence to show how simply I cook, that small counter space is usually where I do any prep work. Yes, I have an island and I do use it but mostly this space is where I do everything. It's close to the stove, to the sink, and to most everything I need.
Because of the home-ec teacher I had in middle school, who hated me upon sight, I have permanently etched into my brain to "clean as I go". (see that bowl in the sink? brownie mixing bowl)
Add my tendency to leave cupboard doors open, both because of attention span and economy, I constantly feel like I'm going to bonk my head on the doggone cupboard door.
Yes, I realize that it would probably be just as inconvenient if it opened the other way but I'm MORE likely to work toward the sink than I am toward the stove. I'm sure that says something about my psyche but whatever.
Do anyone of you have these quirky little complaints about your house? Things that bother you that might not, okay, probably not, bother someone else? Please say yes. I'm going to assume you're saying yes.
I've gotten much better over the last few years but it is always going to be something that turns me into an adult sized toddler. "I. Can't. Want. To. Make. Dinner." Whine, foot stomp, hand flail.
I do make dinner though, nearly every night. Here is one thing that bothers me about cooking almost every single time:
 | ||||
| Lovely kitchen. Very simple, by design. |
It's not like I cook complicated menus but I do have multi-step processes, some requiring spices and measuring cups and such. This is where I get a little pissy:
 |
| Is it just me or does that cupboard door open the wrong way? |
Because of the home-ec teacher I had in middle school, who hated me upon sight, I have permanently etched into my brain to "clean as I go". (see that bowl in the sink? brownie mixing bowl)
Add my tendency to leave cupboard doors open, both because of attention span and economy, I constantly feel like I'm going to bonk my head on the doggone cupboard door.
Yes, I realize that it would probably be just as inconvenient if it opened the other way but I'm MORE likely to work toward the sink than I am toward the stove. I'm sure that says something about my psyche but whatever.
Do anyone of you have these quirky little complaints about your house? Things that bother you that might not, okay, probably not, bother someone else? Please say yes. I'm going to assume you're saying yes.
13 March 2013
Andy Rooney Post
Things that frustrate me right now:
Doctor Farmers in small-town hospitals
Dropping a full bowl of oatmeal on the kitchen floor
"I know you're busy but...." No, no but. Unless it's followed by "...the building is on fire."
Dish Network doesn't have the same channels as Directv so I can't set a channel for the in-laws that they would LOVE.
There are no good grapes anywhere in the Pacific Northwest right now. Sure they look good in the store, but they go to the dark side on the way home.
The words "slippery slope"
This:
An intermittent check alternator light after spending $500 on the forerunner two weeks ago. (not mechanics fault, just luck of the draw)
Yeah, I need a nap. For twelve hours.
Doctor Farmers in small-town hospitals
Dropping a full bowl of oatmeal on the kitchen floor
"I know you're busy but...." No, no but. Unless it's followed by "...the building is on fire."
Dish Network doesn't have the same channels as Directv so I can't set a channel for the in-laws that they would LOVE.
There are no good grapes anywhere in the Pacific Northwest right now. Sure they look good in the store, but they go to the dark side on the way home.
The words "slippery slope"
This:
 |
| Really? dirty dishes in both sinks? Although grateful he clears the table |
An intermittent check alternator light after spending $500 on the forerunner two weeks ago. (not mechanics fault, just luck of the draw)
Yeah, I need a nap. For twelve hours.
10 March 2013
Sing to Me
Yesterday was day 31 of The Nephew's hospital stay, post surgery. Yesterday was also the day that he was transferred to the University of Washington Hospital's Infectious Disease unit.
In preparation of transfer, they walloped him with an antibiotic cocktail, which made him feel worse than ever. He began shuddering uncontrollably and so we began piling on blankets and cocooning him amongst them.
His mom began stroking his head and hair, one of his favorite things, while I stroked his arm and leg. He curled up and the symptoms began to wane. He said something we couldn't hear so I bent down and asked him to repeat it.
"Do either of you sing?"
"What?" I replied then looked at his mom who shrugged.
I thought about it then it dawned on me. "You want us to sing Soft Kitty!!"
His mom started to laugh and began to sing, I chimed in. We did okay with the first verse but then forgot some of the second verse. We tried to muddle through it while his sister whipped out her phone to look up the lyrics.
We sung it twice then he went to sleep.
It was equally lovely and heart-breaking. I hope he remembers it. I know that I will.
In preparation of transfer, they walloped him with an antibiotic cocktail, which made him feel worse than ever. He began shuddering uncontrollably and so we began piling on blankets and cocooning him amongst them.
His mom began stroking his head and hair, one of his favorite things, while I stroked his arm and leg. He curled up and the symptoms began to wane. He said something we couldn't hear so I bent down and asked him to repeat it.
"Do either of you sing?"
"What?" I replied then looked at his mom who shrugged.
I thought about it then it dawned on me. "You want us to sing Soft Kitty!!"
His mom started to laugh and began to sing, I chimed in. We did okay with the first verse but then forgot some of the second verse. We tried to muddle through it while his sister whipped out her phone to look up the lyrics.
We sung it twice then he went to sleep.
It was equally lovely and heart-breaking. I hope he remembers it. I know that I will.
05 March 2013
I Ain't No Bitch
The Nephew is still in the hospital, it's like day 4,000 now and we're all totally over it by now.
It hasn't gone without it's moments. Many of them provided by texting.
He had a particularly difficult day and his uncle Kevin text him to just keep trying.
The nephew replied 'I'm drying." (wait for it )
Kevin read it as "I'm dying"
He replied "Fuck That."
And then there was radio silence for awhile.
Kevin told me about the exchange, clearly shaken. The Nephew had admitted earlier to me that he didn't feel like he had much fight in him left and I had expressed similar sentiment.
While on the way home from work later that day, Kevin recalled the story to his brother. He called the series of texts back up to read them to him.
This where he realized that he misread it. "I'm drying" not "I'm dying" and still, clearly wrong.
So Kevin texted the nephew and explained what happened.
The Nephew replied: "That's not gonna happen. I ain't no bitch".
Atta Boy, keep fighting.
Oh, and Kevin? Pay better attention. M'kay?
It hasn't gone without it's moments. Many of them provided by texting.
He had a particularly difficult day and his uncle Kevin text him to just keep trying.
The nephew replied 'I'm drying." (wait for it )
Kevin read it as "I'm dying"
He replied "Fuck That."
And then there was radio silence for awhile.
Kevin told me about the exchange, clearly shaken. The Nephew had admitted earlier to me that he didn't feel like he had much fight in him left and I had expressed similar sentiment.
While on the way home from work later that day, Kevin recalled the story to his brother. He called the series of texts back up to read them to him.
This where he realized that he misread it. "I'm drying" not "I'm dying" and still, clearly wrong.
So Kevin texted the nephew and explained what happened.
The Nephew replied: "That's not gonna happen. I ain't no bitch".
Atta Boy, keep fighting.
Oh, and Kevin? Pay better attention. M'kay?
01 March 2013
Things I Don't Understand
Why do people hate Nickleback? Perhaps it's because I'm nearly Canadian, I don't understand. I just don't get it.
Why does Tom Cruise carry that child everywhere? isn't she like seven years old?
Girl Little would kick our ass before letting us carry her around like a baby.
Waking non-critical care patients up regularly to check vital signs. Sick people should sleep uninterrupted. Period. Full stop. End of discussion.
The recent spate of poorly-written yet wildly popular books. I'm looking at you Twilight and Fifty Shade of Grey.
Along the same line as the above: all the television shows that feature nothing but people behaving badly.
Fish tacos.
The concept of designating someone as an infallible man, based on a book that clearly states there is no such thing.
The moustache craze: tattoos, car decals, etc.
People talking on cell phones/bluetooth in stores, etc. You know we can hear you right? It's gotten so a person has to play "Talking on bluetooth or schizophrenic?"
Why does Tom Cruise carry that child everywhere? isn't she like seven years old?
Girl Little would kick our ass before letting us carry her around like a baby.
Waking non-critical care patients up regularly to check vital signs. Sick people should sleep uninterrupted. Period. Full stop. End of discussion.
The recent spate of poorly-written yet wildly popular books. I'm looking at you Twilight and Fifty Shade of Grey.
Along the same line as the above: all the television shows that feature nothing but people behaving badly.
Fish tacos.
The concept of designating someone as an infallible man, based on a book that clearly states there is no such thing.
The moustache craze: tattoos, car decals, etc.
People talking on cell phones/bluetooth in stores, etc. You know we can hear you right? It's gotten so a person has to play "Talking on bluetooth or schizophrenic?"
21 February 2013
Forced Relaxation
My latest adventure is a medical massage. While I was having this massage, I kept trying to relax but I also kept thinking "I have to remember to write about this." If I wasn't thinking about that, then I was thinking "You have to stop thinking. You should just Calm The Hell Down and relax."
I have never had a massage, clearly. I have trust issues so it has never even been on my list of things to do. Also, the ADD doesn't seem like a good fit for staying still in one place for 30 minutes. (exhibit a, above)
I was a little skeptical and a bit anxious. Again, trust issues. The unknown is always worse than the known. Also, anticipation of people touching my owie was not something to look forward to.
It was wonderful though. Let me make a list:
Warmed table
Cozy blankets
Small space
Pleasant street noise
Russian accent
Lavendar
I walked better than I have in a long while afterward. The massage was similar to the manual manipulation part of physical therapy but not as miserable. I have an appointment again next week and I'm actually looking forward to it.
So, the one thing I did not enjoy is the nakey part and this was just partially nakey. But any kind of nakey is not fun for me, unless Kev is involved of course. I understand that it's necessary, I just don't have to like it. I can rationalize that they are used to nakey bodies but it just doesn't make it any easier. I'm sure that each time that I go, it will be a little bit easier. I doubt that I will ever be totally comfortable with it though.
Anyway, I think I've typed "nakey" enough for a lifetime.
The clinic is above the bay in the historic Fairhaven district so just the drive there is relaxing. If one could see out the window, it overlooks the bay above the ferry dock. Hardwood floors, pleasant earth tone interior design, a sassy receptionist were also to be noted.
There is also a train track nearby so I listened to the train going by. This would be disruptive to most people, I think. I loved it though. I really liked it also when a lawnmower started up. Nothing says impending Spring like a lawnmower. A car passed by with its music blaring and I am still trying to figure out what song it was. So, you know: total relaxation for the ADD. Lots of noise to entertain it so I could relax.
There was, of course, the asian style music of flutes and chimes playing. Normally, this music makes me stabby - the exact opposite of it's intent. I just don't enjoy the sound of it. (obvs.) But I will admit that it was soothing after time passed and that it becomes just white noise eventually.
I still don't know that a massage would be on my list of things to do with my free time, especially considering that this massage mainly focuses on my leg and hip. If it was a head-to-toe thing then I'm not so sure.
Although I did feel pretty groovy when I left. Yep, I said it: groovy.
I have never had a massage, clearly. I have trust issues so it has never even been on my list of things to do. Also, the ADD doesn't seem like a good fit for staying still in one place for 30 minutes. (exhibit a, above)
I was a little skeptical and a bit anxious. Again, trust issues. The unknown is always worse than the known. Also, anticipation of people touching my owie was not something to look forward to.
It was wonderful though. Let me make a list:
Warmed table
Cozy blankets
Small space
Pleasant street noise
Russian accent
Lavendar
I walked better than I have in a long while afterward. The massage was similar to the manual manipulation part of physical therapy but not as miserable. I have an appointment again next week and I'm actually looking forward to it.
So, the one thing I did not enjoy is the nakey part and this was just partially nakey. But any kind of nakey is not fun for me, unless Kev is involved of course. I understand that it's necessary, I just don't have to like it. I can rationalize that they are used to nakey bodies but it just doesn't make it any easier. I'm sure that each time that I go, it will be a little bit easier. I doubt that I will ever be totally comfortable with it though.
Anyway, I think I've typed "nakey" enough for a lifetime.
The clinic is above the bay in the historic Fairhaven district so just the drive there is relaxing. If one could see out the window, it overlooks the bay above the ferry dock. Hardwood floors, pleasant earth tone interior design, a sassy receptionist were also to be noted.
There is also a train track nearby so I listened to the train going by. This would be disruptive to most people, I think. I loved it though. I really liked it also when a lawnmower started up. Nothing says impending Spring like a lawnmower. A car passed by with its music blaring and I am still trying to figure out what song it was. So, you know: total relaxation for the ADD. Lots of noise to entertain it so I could relax.
There was, of course, the asian style music of flutes and chimes playing. Normally, this music makes me stabby - the exact opposite of it's intent. I just don't enjoy the sound of it. (obvs.) But I will admit that it was soothing after time passed and that it becomes just white noise eventually.
I still don't know that a massage would be on my list of things to do with my free time, especially considering that this massage mainly focuses on my leg and hip. If it was a head-to-toe thing then I'm not so sure.
Although I did feel pretty groovy when I left. Yep, I said it: groovy.
18 February 2013
Who is Your Daddy?
We had dinner tonight with Kevin's aunt and old family pictures came up in conversation.
I missed how it started but Kevin's dad was proudly showing pictures in his wallet to his mother Then Kevin's mom handed Kevin the wallet to show him. Kev took it, looked puzzled then frowned.
He turned the wallet and showed me. I gasped, laughed then smacked his arm " NO! No that did not just happen!"
Kevin handed the wallet back and said "Oh my God. That is NOT me!"
His dad had been carrying a photo of one of their friends sons. For YEARS. Thinking it was Kevin. His mom even defended him. "Kevin, that's you."
"No Mom it's not me. I , of all people, would know Me!"
The picture is of a boy that is younger than me and I am seven years younger than Kevin. The picture is in full color while his brothers is faded to near sepia. The child in the photo is wearing a polo shirt and Cosby sweater.
In Kevins dad's defense, he was a long haul truck driver and missed a lot of the boys childhoods. But the fact that that Both Parents mistook the wrong picture is the stuff of sitcoms.
His mother finally said "Well you both have such good dark hair."
I missed how it started but Kevin's dad was proudly showing pictures in his wallet to his mother Then Kevin's mom handed Kevin the wallet to show him. Kev took it, looked puzzled then frowned.
He turned the wallet and showed me. I gasped, laughed then smacked his arm " NO! No that did not just happen!"
Kevin handed the wallet back and said "Oh my God. That is NOT me!"
His dad had been carrying a photo of one of their friends sons. For YEARS. Thinking it was Kevin. His mom even defended him. "Kevin, that's you."
"No Mom it's not me. I , of all people, would know Me!"
The picture is of a boy that is younger than me and I am seven years younger than Kevin. The picture is in full color while his brothers is faded to near sepia. The child in the photo is wearing a polo shirt and Cosby sweater.
In Kevins dad's defense, he was a long haul truck driver and missed a lot of the boys childhoods. But the fact that that Both Parents mistook the wrong picture is the stuff of sitcoms.
His mother finally said "Well you both have such good dark hair."
16 February 2013
Intestines on a Table
The Nephew thought that we hadn't spent near enough time in a hospital recently so he decided to need surgery.
Our lovely boy has Crohns disease and it has been kicking him pretty hard recently. He spent a few days in the hospital a few weeks ago and just hasn't been feeling well for a while.
Finally, it landed him in the hospital and with surgery. They took out an abscess (effing ow) and a small section of small intestine & colon, where the two meet.
He has a pretty decent incision in his belly but not as large as one would think.
They literally took his guts out and worked on them while on a table. We've been joking that his new band name can be "Intestines on a Table". Yes, we are a dark bunch.
Today he was supposed to have the epidural taken out but not so much. I'm a little anxious about his pain levels once that occurs. Also, we noticed today that it appears he has stitches in his back as well. (no, not epidural marks but stitches)
The good news of all of this is that he will only feel better from here. We know for certain that the Crohns hasn't ravaged his organs, which can happen just not now.
But he is six foot two inches tall and walks around at 220 pounds. He is currently at 160 pounds. He shoulders are jutting, his jawline is pronounced, and he's got chicken legs. It's just sad.
More sad is watching the kids - bigs and littles - try to figure this whole thing out and watch his fiancee try to figure out how to be in a relationship with a sick spouse. She's been a good soldier, tamping down her fear and making everything as right as she can.
It always makes us laugh that nurses and doctors comment "Wow, there are a lot of people here!" We always say "We can make it worse. One phone call." Now we can say "We can add five kids if you think it's a good idea."
So, that's where we have been for the last almost two weeks. Visiting a sick boy in the hospital.
When we sent The Nephew off to surgery, we each took a moment with him. I just tried to choke out a cheery "You got this." Kevin gave him an awkward white boy fist bump then I noticed that Kev kind of spun around and walked away afterward. It was his version of taking-a-moment. He mentioned a little while later while we were alone in the elevator that it choked him up sending him off to surgery.
I told him that of course it did. "That's our boy too." He's the closest thing we have to a child.
Our lovely boy has Crohns disease and it has been kicking him pretty hard recently. He spent a few days in the hospital a few weeks ago and just hasn't been feeling well for a while.
Finally, it landed him in the hospital and with surgery. They took out an abscess (effing ow) and a small section of small intestine & colon, where the two meet.
He has a pretty decent incision in his belly but not as large as one would think.
They literally took his guts out and worked on them while on a table. We've been joking that his new band name can be "Intestines on a Table". Yes, we are a dark bunch.
Today he was supposed to have the epidural taken out but not so much. I'm a little anxious about his pain levels once that occurs. Also, we noticed today that it appears he has stitches in his back as well. (no, not epidural marks but stitches)
The good news of all of this is that he will only feel better from here. We know for certain that the Crohns hasn't ravaged his organs, which can happen just not now.
But he is six foot two inches tall and walks around at 220 pounds. He is currently at 160 pounds. He shoulders are jutting, his jawline is pronounced, and he's got chicken legs. It's just sad.
More sad is watching the kids - bigs and littles - try to figure this whole thing out and watch his fiancee try to figure out how to be in a relationship with a sick spouse. She's been a good soldier, tamping down her fear and making everything as right as she can.
It always makes us laugh that nurses and doctors comment "Wow, there are a lot of people here!" We always say "We can make it worse. One phone call." Now we can say "We can add five kids if you think it's a good idea."
So, that's where we have been for the last almost two weeks. Visiting a sick boy in the hospital.
When we sent The Nephew off to surgery, we each took a moment with him. I just tried to choke out a cheery "You got this." Kevin gave him an awkward white boy fist bump then I noticed that Kev kind of spun around and walked away afterward. It was his version of taking-a-moment. He mentioned a little while later while we were alone in the elevator that it choked him up sending him off to surgery.
I told him that of course it did. "That's our boy too." He's the closest thing we have to a child.
11 February 2013
You Can Lead a Dog to her Bed
This is not the only story about throwing food that I can tell.
Missy always seems to know when there is a possibility of her getting leftovers from dinner. We are unsure where she gained these skills and we feel it's probably best not to ask.
We had french fries at dinner tonight. (yes, we are six. shut up.) When we were finished, Kevin threw a fry from the dinner table to the kitchen floor, close to where she was laying in the laundry room.
It took her a few seconds but she found it. He continued to toss a few fries for her, finding that he had to throw it where she saw it or she wouldn't find it. Her hearing is nearly gone now and her sniffer has never been great. I'm sure she would say she lost it in the war, a la Snoopy, but I really think she never had a good one.
Kevin thought it would be a great idea to throw fries down the hall, leading to her bed. For about fifty feet, Missy would take a few steps, wait for the fry to fall from the sky as if magically, eat it, then take a few more steps.
This is behavior that I just roll with because really, what's the harm? And I get a good story out of it.
Finally I hear an unusual sound. I don't even turn to look because Kevin is laughing. "It landed on top of the china cupboard." He says nonchalantly. Then he follows with "WHO DOES THAT!?!?!?"
I just started clearing the table. Missy went to bed. We're used to him by now.
Missy always seems to know when there is a possibility of her getting leftovers from dinner. We are unsure where she gained these skills and we feel it's probably best not to ask.
We had french fries at dinner tonight. (yes, we are six. shut up.) When we were finished, Kevin threw a fry from the dinner table to the kitchen floor, close to where she was laying in the laundry room.
It took her a few seconds but she found it. He continued to toss a few fries for her, finding that he had to throw it where she saw it or she wouldn't find it. Her hearing is nearly gone now and her sniffer has never been great. I'm sure she would say she lost it in the war, a la Snoopy, but I really think she never had a good one.
Kevin thought it would be a great idea to throw fries down the hall, leading to her bed. For about fifty feet, Missy would take a few steps, wait for the fry to fall from the sky as if magically, eat it, then take a few more steps.
This is behavior that I just roll with because really, what's the harm? And I get a good story out of it.
Finally I hear an unusual sound. I don't even turn to look because Kevin is laughing. "It landed on top of the china cupboard." He says nonchalantly. Then he follows with "WHO DOES THAT!?!?!?"
I just started clearing the table. Missy went to bed. We're used to him by now.
09 February 2013
Swistle Will Agree
Our friend Swistle is Not A Fan of Poetry. This is perfectly fine, especially when presented with poetry such as this. With this, I find myself unable to defend poetry at all. This, dear Swistle, is for your entertainment and mockery:
I grew up reading the likes of Frost, etc so this new style of poetry is confusing to me. Where is the structure, the rhyming, the SENSE? It seems like the most recent poetry I've read makes me feel like I'm having a stroke, or at very least, high.
Howard Stern, of all people, was discussing poetry shortly after the Inauguration. He wondered about the same that is stated above upon listening to the poem recited during the ceremony. His cohort, Robin, postulated that poetry has turned more like prose.
Then I had to go look up what the difference was between poetry and prose. (Hey, I've been out of high school for twenty-cough years) It seems that it boils down to word count and descriptiveness. Technically, there is supposed to be formatting in poetry but I'm finding that to less and less the case.
Has traditional poetry gone away? Is it too much to ask for poetry to, you know, actually tell a story and make sense? I would enjoy some vivid imagery instead of inducing stroke symptoms with its "creativity".
La Noche
by Anselm Hollo
the wind let loose in the dark
and the lights of the city moving
the city is a great dragon it is a procession
it is on the move
but the curtains are drawn
the music unheard
see men and women preparing themselves
for the long journey across a room
I grew up reading the likes of Frost, etc so this new style of poetry is confusing to me. Where is the structure, the rhyming, the SENSE? It seems like the most recent poetry I've read makes me feel like I'm having a stroke, or at very least, high.
Howard Stern, of all people, was discussing poetry shortly after the Inauguration. He wondered about the same that is stated above upon listening to the poem recited during the ceremony. His cohort, Robin, postulated that poetry has turned more like prose.
Then I had to go look up what the difference was between poetry and prose. (Hey, I've been out of high school for twenty-cough years) It seems that it boils down to word count and descriptiveness. Technically, there is supposed to be formatting in poetry but I'm finding that to less and less the case.
Has traditional poetry gone away? Is it too much to ask for poetry to, you know, actually tell a story and make sense? I would enjoy some vivid imagery instead of inducing stroke symptoms with its "creativity".
03 February 2013
For Rent
This is the message board next to our door. It rarely is used. Until about a month ago, it read "Missy was a very good girl. Love, Niece" from three years ago when she took care of the dog while we were in Vegas.
Kevin decided to build Missy a new doghouse on our deck. She has one that is attached to our shop but Kevin thought she might like a bigger one on the deck where she could see more of the goings-on.
So he drew me a diagram of what he was thinking. Later on, I added the "dog" drawing and labeled it Missy's Condo.
Well, the dog sleeps in it only occasionally. We don't know why. It's big, it's insulated, and has cozy blankets. She seems attached to the old dog house. She's an old dog and you can't teach an old dog new tricks. Or apparently make her sleep in a new condo. Also, how optimistic is Kevin to build an old dog a new house?
I noticed Friday that Kevin had added the "for rent" sign onto the drawing.
I then crossed out Missy's name and added Lucky's because he does spend time in there.
And this is how we spend our time.
30 January 2013
I Could Have Had A Baby By Now
This is a little late but the title still applies.
It's been nine months since I fell. Nine months. In some ways, it seems like it's been a minute and in others, I'm incredulous that this wildly boring adventure isn't over yet.
I've finished physical therapy now. My therapist summed it up as "I think we're just torturing you now and while I enjoy that, it's time to stop." Now you understand why I liked her so much.
I don't have a limp because I Pay Attention. Kevin says that my walk has changed, especially when I'm tired or sore. Then he calls me an old woman. So caring and gentle, this husband of mine.
I am still in sneakers mostly. I've banished a few pairs of socks. I don't go into PTSD tremors when I see track pants anymore. So, progress.
I still can't jog or run, not that was in the realm of possibility before but the mere thought of it makes me cringe and want to sit down.
I am told not to worry about much of anything until at least the first year anniversary and even six months after that so: October. (I nearly wrote "2013" because I'm still in 2012 because I'm still living it because I missed most of it)
(Also: I decided not to change the grammar nightmare of that sentence because it pleased me in its absurdity.)
I am still not working full time and I've gotten over that. It's gonna be what it's gonna be and worrying about it is not going to change it.
So that's what is happening here. What is happening where you are?
It's been nine months since I fell. Nine months. In some ways, it seems like it's been a minute and in others, I'm incredulous that this wildly boring adventure isn't over yet.
I've finished physical therapy now. My therapist summed it up as "I think we're just torturing you now and while I enjoy that, it's time to stop." Now you understand why I liked her so much.
I don't have a limp because I Pay Attention. Kevin says that my walk has changed, especially when I'm tired or sore. Then he calls me an old woman. So caring and gentle, this husband of mine.
I am still in sneakers mostly. I've banished a few pairs of socks. I don't go into PTSD tremors when I see track pants anymore. So, progress.
I still can't jog or run, not that was in the realm of possibility before but the mere thought of it makes me cringe and want to sit down.
I am told not to worry about much of anything until at least the first year anniversary and even six months after that so: October. (I nearly wrote "2013" because I'm still in 2012 because I'm still living it because I missed most of it)
(Also: I decided not to change the grammar nightmare of that sentence because it pleased me in its absurdity.)
I am still not working full time and I've gotten over that. It's gonna be what it's gonna be and worrying about it is not going to change it.
So that's what is happening here. What is happening where you are?
23 January 2013
Don't Touch That Dial
I kind of love talk shows. I think it is because I grew up in the age of the talk show. Dinah Shore, Merv Griffin, and Mike....I've forgotten his name now...were all on when I got home from school.
Then the shows grew into Phil Donahue and Oprah Winfrey (back in the day when she had a last name) and Ricki Lake.
Now I watch The Talk and Anderson Cooper faithfully every day. I used to watch Ellen but I tired of the gimmicky comedy element of it and the fact that there were ten guests in twenty minutes. I can appreciate her but she's just not my preference. I also will record other shows if there is a guest that I really enjoy, including late night shows.
I do have the habit of fast forwarding through guests I don't know or particularly care for though. Sometimes I regret it when I read in the entertainment news that "OMG YOU WON'T BELIEVE WHAT THEY SAID." But mostly, I just have other ways to spend my time (a.k.a. other shows to watch)
Tonight I am exhausted. I've been trying to work full-time and right now it feels like there have been back-to-back full moons at work. (those of you who work in social services, first responders, or schools understand what I just said)
So I actually did not have the energy to walk the six feet to the remote while making dinner to change the show when Joan Collins came on The Talk. I am not a Dynasty fan and I'm not a fan of her books so I was not interested in her at all.
But then she told a great story about doing her own stunts and something that Gene Kelly told her.
I was happy that I hadn't fast-forwarded past her interview. It was a great story (to me) and I was glad that I heard it.
I guess the lesson learned is to stop being in such a hurry and to stop being dismissive of talk show guests that I am not familiar with or fond of because something might happen during that interview to change that.
Yes, I realize the entire reason for talk shows is that last sentence. It's been a long day.
Then the shows grew into Phil Donahue and Oprah Winfrey (back in the day when she had a last name) and Ricki Lake.
*I swear I'm not a 75 year old grandmother with ten cats.*
Now I watch The Talk and Anderson Cooper faithfully every day. I used to watch Ellen but I tired of the gimmicky comedy element of it and the fact that there were ten guests in twenty minutes. I can appreciate her but she's just not my preference. I also will record other shows if there is a guest that I really enjoy, including late night shows.
I do have the habit of fast forwarding through guests I don't know or particularly care for though. Sometimes I regret it when I read in the entertainment news that "OMG YOU WON'T BELIEVE WHAT THEY SAID." But mostly, I just have other ways to spend my time (a.k.a. other shows to watch)
Tonight I am exhausted. I've been trying to work full-time and right now it feels like there have been back-to-back full moons at work. (those of you who work in social services, first responders, or schools understand what I just said)
So I actually did not have the energy to walk the six feet to the remote while making dinner to change the show when Joan Collins came on The Talk. I am not a Dynasty fan and I'm not a fan of her books so I was not interested in her at all.
But then she told a great story about doing her own stunts and something that Gene Kelly told her.
AGAIN: I swear I'm not seventy-five years old and own ten cats.
I was happy that I hadn't fast-forwarded past her interview. It was a great story (to me) and I was glad that I heard it.
I guess the lesson learned is to stop being in such a hurry and to stop being dismissive of talk show guests that I am not familiar with or fond of because something might happen during that interview to change that.
Yes, I realize the entire reason for talk shows is that last sentence. It's been a long day.
21 January 2013
A Ghost Child
There are few moments in my childhood that were not affected by my dad's drinking. As an adult, I believe I am just now starting to understand the long term effects of his drinking on my life, and on his.
Certainly I can come up with some happy moments. Unfortunately they are almost all followed by something that tempered the "happy" right out of them.
There is not a family celebration, vacation, or regular family moment that wasn't accompanied with a drink, a word, glance, or body language that could and did ruin everything.
But he didn't have a problem. He had a lifestyle, he "enjoyed" it. It was how he chose to live his life, right up until the end. Unfortunately for everyone else, we were forced to live that lifestyle as well.
The lifestyle for us was a little different though. It was a lifestyle of being quiet, to not draw attention, of being able to predict someone by the way that they walked, talked, stood, or drove. It was the lifestyle of expecting to be disappointed by people. It was the lifestyle of one day at a time. Ironically not like AA intends but as a "There's one more day without an outburst. There's one more day until I grow up and get out of here."
While my dad was dying, he said I was always quiet as a child. I don't think he understood that he was perhaps the cause of my quietness. Sure, it's part of my personality to be circumspect but it's kind of a the chicken and the egg thing.
He told the story of how I used to come into his shop, a silent little elfin appearing kind of kid. (tiny, glasses, golden haired, often mismatched clothes) I would sweep or straighten up then leave, often without a word.
I vaguely remember that. I don't remember when I stopped or why but I can guess. But that's how he remembered me as a child. A quiet little ghost.
I think that is who I was. A ghost child. Someone who was always surprised when someone actually saw me. Someone who just tried to fade into the background and not be noticed. Someone who lived their life as quietly as possible and tried to just get on to the next part of it.
All because someone lived a lifestyle. Of drinking.
Certainly I can come up with some happy moments. Unfortunately they are almost all followed by something that tempered the "happy" right out of them.
There is not a family celebration, vacation, or regular family moment that wasn't accompanied with a drink, a word, glance, or body language that could and did ruin everything.
But he didn't have a problem. He had a lifestyle, he "enjoyed" it. It was how he chose to live his life, right up until the end. Unfortunately for everyone else, we were forced to live that lifestyle as well.
The lifestyle for us was a little different though. It was a lifestyle of being quiet, to not draw attention, of being able to predict someone by the way that they walked, talked, stood, or drove. It was the lifestyle of expecting to be disappointed by people. It was the lifestyle of one day at a time. Ironically not like AA intends but as a "There's one more day without an outburst. There's one more day until I grow up and get out of here."
While my dad was dying, he said I was always quiet as a child. I don't think he understood that he was perhaps the cause of my quietness. Sure, it's part of my personality to be circumspect but it's kind of a the chicken and the egg thing.
He told the story of how I used to come into his shop, a silent little elfin appearing kind of kid. (tiny, glasses, golden haired, often mismatched clothes) I would sweep or straighten up then leave, often without a word.
I vaguely remember that. I don't remember when I stopped or why but I can guess. But that's how he remembered me as a child. A quiet little ghost.
I think that is who I was. A ghost child. Someone who was always surprised when someone actually saw me. Someone who just tried to fade into the background and not be noticed. Someone who lived their life as quietly as possible and tried to just get on to the next part of it.
All because someone lived a lifestyle. Of drinking.
20 January 2013
News & Notes
It's cold here. Newsflash: it's also winter. But it's been in the high twenties here for awhile. We are nearing perma-frost in the yard.
We had the strangest thing happen last weekend. Massive bird death. The little chickadee (we think they were) birds were landing on the road then only about half of them would fly back up. All said and done, within about a two mile length of road, we guess about a hundred birds died. It was hitchcockian, really.
Our guess is that they must have gotten into something: bad water, old berries, or something man-made. We don't think it was the cold but it is also further down the list.
So that was horrifying.
Guess what! The truck is broken again. Let's take a tally: head gasket, clutch, and now something else. A person could get pissy about this right up until I say that there is nearly 400,000 miles on it. Then I just shut up about it.
I spent yesterday watching GLEE all day and into the night. I really wish that show existed when I was in high school, I really do. I imagine it might have been a game-changer for me. If you watch it, you probably know what I'm talking about. If you don't, please watch it.
I had to take an online course about septic systems. I KNOW, so Glamorous!
But it gets better, I also have to go take another two hour hands-on course as well.
The county that I live in requires this for home-owners with septic systems. If I want to skip the second course, I can just pay about $250 for someone to come inspect it every three years. Instead, I can do it myself.
I am still learning how to use my nook tablet. It has a few glitches that can be frustrating but then I just have to remind myself that it is not a laptop. Overall, I really enjoy it.
Kevin's mom is still figuring stuff out with hers. The biggest problem is that she forgets and/or is impatient. We've been over there twice at 8:00 in the evening to help work out an issue. We've added amazon and two tabloid sites for her to browse as well. All-in-all, she's seventy-five years old and using the interwebs so well done her.
I was worried that with Christmas and a limited ability to move that I would gain some weight but to my utter surprise, not so much. Here's hoping that the rest of this year continues that trend.
Missy doesn't like the sound of gunshots or fireworks. As she has gotten older, it has given her more anxiety than ever before. That being said, if we know that there is a chance of loud noises we take precautions with the exception of drugs.
New Year's Eve we spend next door playing games and eating. We left Missy inside and turned on all the radios in the house, closet all the blinds & curtains and left the lights on. To no avail. Some toolbag set off fireworks louder than most of what we used when we did it for a living. After a few episodes, Kevin decided to go check on Missy.
Yeah, she lost her shit. Well, not literally. She tore down the blinds in her room and trashed a few things that were on the window sill. Kevin said she was pacing the hallway and hyperventilating. He had to hold onto her when he opened the door or surely she would have been in Texas by daybreak. This is a first for her so that's not fun for anyone involved.
One of our favorite baristas is developing quite the little drinking problem. She's college-age so it's a little to be expected that she parties but it's clearly turning into a problem. Without intention, I mentioned that I don't drink. She very bluntly said that she gets drunk about two or three times a week. "But it's a lifestyle, not a problem." I just let her statement hang in silence. Partially because I was taken aback and partially because I wanted that pause to maybe make an impact.
As I was driving away, I thought "I could have said something like My dad only got drunk two to three times a week and there's not a moment of my childhood that was wasn't affected. Or, I've had drinking attempt to destroy my life twice and neither person would ever admit it was a problem." But truly, she wouldn't have heard me. It's going to take something truly awful for her to have an opportunity to stop herself. Hopefully it's not too awful that it just encourages it.
If I ever need something explained to me, I am just going to rely on the internet. Rachel Maddow, Neil DeGrasse Tyson, Cory Booker. They each have a way to explain complicated things so that a normal human can understand.
Kevin's brother figured out how to cook Benihana style. Oh.My.Gah. SO GOOD. Guess what we're having for dinner tonight!
We had the strangest thing happen last weekend. Massive bird death. The little chickadee (we think they were) birds were landing on the road then only about half of them would fly back up. All said and done, within about a two mile length of road, we guess about a hundred birds died. It was hitchcockian, really.
Our guess is that they must have gotten into something: bad water, old berries, or something man-made. We don't think it was the cold but it is also further down the list.
So that was horrifying.
Guess what! The truck is broken again. Let's take a tally: head gasket, clutch, and now something else. A person could get pissy about this right up until I say that there is nearly 400,000 miles on it. Then I just shut up about it.
I spent yesterday watching GLEE all day and into the night. I really wish that show existed when I was in high school, I really do. I imagine it might have been a game-changer for me. If you watch it, you probably know what I'm talking about. If you don't, please watch it.
I had to take an online course about septic systems. I KNOW, so Glamorous!
But it gets better, I also have to go take another two hour hands-on course as well.
The county that I live in requires this for home-owners with septic systems. If I want to skip the second course, I can just pay about $250 for someone to come inspect it every three years. Instead, I can do it myself.
I am still learning how to use my nook tablet. It has a few glitches that can be frustrating but then I just have to remind myself that it is not a laptop. Overall, I really enjoy it.
Kevin's mom is still figuring stuff out with hers. The biggest problem is that she forgets and/or is impatient. We've been over there twice at 8:00 in the evening to help work out an issue. We've added amazon and two tabloid sites for her to browse as well. All-in-all, she's seventy-five years old and using the interwebs so well done her.
I was worried that with Christmas and a limited ability to move that I would gain some weight but to my utter surprise, not so much. Here's hoping that the rest of this year continues that trend.
Missy doesn't like the sound of gunshots or fireworks. As she has gotten older, it has given her more anxiety than ever before. That being said, if we know that there is a chance of loud noises we take precautions with the exception of drugs.
New Year's Eve we spend next door playing games and eating. We left Missy inside and turned on all the radios in the house, closet all the blinds & curtains and left the lights on. To no avail. Some toolbag set off fireworks louder than most of what we used when we did it for a living. After a few episodes, Kevin decided to go check on Missy.
Yeah, she lost her shit. Well, not literally. She tore down the blinds in her room and trashed a few things that were on the window sill. Kevin said she was pacing the hallway and hyperventilating. He had to hold onto her when he opened the door or surely she would have been in Texas by daybreak. This is a first for her so that's not fun for anyone involved.
One of our favorite baristas is developing quite the little drinking problem. She's college-age so it's a little to be expected that she parties but it's clearly turning into a problem. Without intention, I mentioned that I don't drink. She very bluntly said that she gets drunk about two or three times a week. "But it's a lifestyle, not a problem." I just let her statement hang in silence. Partially because I was taken aback and partially because I wanted that pause to maybe make an impact.
As I was driving away, I thought "I could have said something like My dad only got drunk two to three times a week and there's not a moment of my childhood that was wasn't affected. Or, I've had drinking attempt to destroy my life twice and neither person would ever admit it was a problem." But truly, she wouldn't have heard me. It's going to take something truly awful for her to have an opportunity to stop herself. Hopefully it's not too awful that it just encourages it.
If I ever need something explained to me, I am just going to rely on the internet. Rachel Maddow, Neil DeGrasse Tyson, Cory Booker. They each have a way to explain complicated things so that a normal human can understand.
Kevin's brother figured out how to cook Benihana style. Oh.My.Gah. SO GOOD. Guess what we're having for dinner tonight!
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