It hit 99 degrees today where I work.
It was fabulous.
I love the heat. I am one of those people who lives here in the Northwest, but loves it hot. It wasn't humid - or at least it didn't feel humid - so it was perfect for me.
When the humidity is higher, 90 is about my maximum comfort level.
This was perfect - it had just enough of a solid baking feel when you got into the sun that it warmed up the bones, and the muscles. For me, it makes me feel nice and loose and relaxed.
Most people around here don't like it this hot. TS is one - he becomes very grumpy. A/C helps him stay alive, but his grump level goes up.
Everyone kept coming inside and telling me how lucky I was to be in the air conditioned building, and I kept saying - "But I love it out there".
I love summer.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Missing Magic
Yesterday, I saw a Monarch butterfly for the first time this summer.
And I thought, "It's been almost three months since Magic died." It seems like it was longer.
I still miss him. Oh, it's not so sharp or so immediate that I cry every time I think about him. I remember more of the funny things he did.
I'm not beating myself over signs I should have noticed, or the issues surrounding the eating of socks. Because it was an accident. We never let him play with socks. We didn't leave socks laying around. He stole the socks from places we didn't realize he could get to, until it was too late. Okay, maybe I'm still beating myself just a little bit.
Sometimes I think I will hear the little sigh he used to make when he put his head down on my foot. When the alarm goes off and I'm half asleep, sometimes I still expect to feel the bed bounce as he jumps up to make sure we are absolutely, positively awake and getting up.
I think the hardest part is that he was just a baby. Old dogs, well, in our house old dogs have led a good life. All old pets, for that matter. They get fed well. They have toys. They are warm in the winter, and have cool places to go in the summer. They are de-flead, brushed, and taken to the vet. They get lots and lots of pets, and hugs, and treats. Toys are tossed.
Some of them are rescued from certain death. They have good lives. When they get old and sick, no matter how hard it is, we let them go. We don't want them to suffer. They have been as happy as dogs who aren't allowed to roll in dead things, and cats who aren't allowed to kill every little thing can be.
Magic was just a baby. He won't ever get to go swimming in a lake in the summer. For him the world outside was mostly a rainy, cold place. Not that he minded - he was a happy dog. The world was just waking up when he left it.
I think he would have liked butterflies.
And I thought, "It's been almost three months since Magic died." It seems like it was longer.
I still miss him. Oh, it's not so sharp or so immediate that I cry every time I think about him. I remember more of the funny things he did.
I'm not beating myself over signs I should have noticed, or the issues surrounding the eating of socks. Because it was an accident. We never let him play with socks. We didn't leave socks laying around. He stole the socks from places we didn't realize he could get to, until it was too late. Okay, maybe I'm still beating myself just a little bit.
Sometimes I think I will hear the little sigh he used to make when he put his head down on my foot. When the alarm goes off and I'm half asleep, sometimes I still expect to feel the bed bounce as he jumps up to make sure we are absolutely, positively awake and getting up.
I think the hardest part is that he was just a baby. Old dogs, well, in our house old dogs have led a good life. All old pets, for that matter. They get fed well. They have toys. They are warm in the winter, and have cool places to go in the summer. They are de-flead, brushed, and taken to the vet. They get lots and lots of pets, and hugs, and treats. Toys are tossed.
Some of them are rescued from certain death. They have good lives. When they get old and sick, no matter how hard it is, we let them go. We don't want them to suffer. They have been as happy as dogs who aren't allowed to roll in dead things, and cats who aren't allowed to kill every little thing can be.
Magic was just a baby. He won't ever get to go swimming in a lake in the summer. For him the world outside was mostly a rainy, cold place. Not that he minded - he was a happy dog. The world was just waking up when he left it.
I think he would have liked butterflies.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Summer Sickness
Once again I have come down with some kind of summer crud.
It's not turning into a cold, as yet. It just kind of hangs around, giving me cold chills with no fever, a horrible sinus headache with no corresponding drippy nose. Even though I feel horrible, I couldn't say exactly how. Kind of achy, but not really. Scratchy throat, but only if I talk for very long.
It makes me feel bad enough I didn't go to work for two days, and instead slept for most of them. Under 6 layers of blankets because of the chills.
I am finally feeling a little better this afternoon, so I am washing the sheets, and doing a few chores around the house, taking rests in between when I start to feel bad. I wonder if it's allergies. It doesn't really matter - I feel horrible, and the thought of being nice and chirpy to the public makes me cringe. So, probably a good idea I stayed home.
I always feel guilty, though. I hate leaving my co-workers in the lurch, and my boss scrambling to find someone to come in and cover for me. Hopefully since school is almost out it will be very, very quiet this week and next week.
I suppose I will go make some hot tea. And hope that the sheets are nearly dry; I think it's time for a nap.
It's not turning into a cold, as yet. It just kind of hangs around, giving me cold chills with no fever, a horrible sinus headache with no corresponding drippy nose. Even though I feel horrible, I couldn't say exactly how. Kind of achy, but not really. Scratchy throat, but only if I talk for very long.
It makes me feel bad enough I didn't go to work for two days, and instead slept for most of them. Under 6 layers of blankets because of the chills.
I am finally feeling a little better this afternoon, so I am washing the sheets, and doing a few chores around the house, taking rests in between when I start to feel bad. I wonder if it's allergies. It doesn't really matter - I feel horrible, and the thought of being nice and chirpy to the public makes me cringe. So, probably a good idea I stayed home.
I always feel guilty, though. I hate leaving my co-workers in the lurch, and my boss scrambling to find someone to come in and cover for me. Hopefully since school is almost out it will be very, very quiet this week and next week.
I suppose I will go make some hot tea. And hope that the sheets are nearly dry; I think it's time for a nap.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Hooked on Make-up
So, after years of being in a make-up drought (like, not wearing any) I have suddenly become hooked on it again.
It's those Bare Escentuals that did it. I absolutely love them, and no, I'm not shilling for the company. There are many reasons for my love - and even though it's new, it's no infatuation.
First - It's fast to put on. I mean fast - like 3 minutes for the basics - foundation, mineral veil (a kind of translucent powder), lip balm and mascara. If I do the whole 9 yards, it takes me 5 minutes. By the whole 9 yards I mean concealer under the foundation (and the concealer is a crushed mineral powder, too) one or two colors of eyeshadow, eyeliner, and lipstick instead of lip balm.
Second - it's natural. It's hypo-allergenic, and there aren't any strange chemicals in the make-up. I haven't seen anything yet about animal testing though. I am all about no animal testing.
Third - the colors are very blendable - and beautiful. Anyone from an older person to a young person will find something they like.
I need new mascara - I am planning to order a few more eye shadows, the eye make-up kit (which comes with a mascara) and probably something else. I am also planning on getting the smokey eye kit (for if we ever go out to dinner again) and a few other things from them.
TS has even complimented me on wearing makeup again. He told me today that he liked this makeup because it was natural looking and not too much - which suits me. I like that, too. I like the fact he notices.
Maybe I won't ever go back to the days of carrying a make-up tackle box with me (I am not kidding) but I probably will keep wearing makeup again. It's too much fun not to.
It's those Bare Escentuals that did it. I absolutely love them, and no, I'm not shilling for the company. There are many reasons for my love - and even though it's new, it's no infatuation.
First - It's fast to put on. I mean fast - like 3 minutes for the basics - foundation, mineral veil (a kind of translucent powder), lip balm and mascara. If I do the whole 9 yards, it takes me 5 minutes. By the whole 9 yards I mean concealer under the foundation (and the concealer is a crushed mineral powder, too) one or two colors of eyeshadow, eyeliner, and lipstick instead of lip balm.
Second - it's natural. It's hypo-allergenic, and there aren't any strange chemicals in the make-up. I haven't seen anything yet about animal testing though. I am all about no animal testing.
Third - the colors are very blendable - and beautiful. Anyone from an older person to a young person will find something they like.
I need new mascara - I am planning to order a few more eye shadows, the eye make-up kit (which comes with a mascara) and probably something else. I am also planning on getting the smokey eye kit (for if we ever go out to dinner again) and a few other things from them.
TS has even complimented me on wearing makeup again. He told me today that he liked this makeup because it was natural looking and not too much - which suits me. I like that, too. I like the fact he notices.
Maybe I won't ever go back to the days of carrying a make-up tackle box with me (I am not kidding) but I probably will keep wearing makeup again. It's too much fun not to.
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Fashion Don't-Ever's
I have some very definite ideas about what looks good - what doesn't. Of course, these are my own soapboxes, and may be disassembled at any time.
One of today's pet-peeves - I hate seeing white women in Indian clothes. I mean the salwar kameez (tunic, pants and scarf) or choli suits or sari's. They are stunning on women who can pull it off. They look asinine on most Caucasian women. I love them - don't get me wrong - I have seen some that make me sigh with envy even, but on white girls - mostly ugh. With a few notable exceptions.
Fat girls should not wear shirts that reveal their bare stomachs, or shorts that are too short, or knit pants that are too tight. Unless you have one of those big bodies that is completely without cellulite, or white lines. You KNOW what I mean. I see no reason to be ashamed of a bigger body - but show off the GOOD parts. Most of us fat girls have fabulous killer boobs, stunning shoulders - and a lot of us have nice butts, no matter how big they are. But please, leave the midriff tops for at home wear.
Do not wear stained clothing. This is for everyone. Sure, sometimes you're at dinner and get tomato sauce on that white t-shirt (why is it always white?). Things happen. But, if the stain doesn't come out - save it for gardening, or painting, or better yet, throw it out because you already have a few stained shirts for those things. They just look bad.
People who wear other people's names plastered all over themselves. I don't get it. It just looks tacky. Unless you are at a sporting event and are a fan (I admit to Mario Andretti and Ayerton Senna baseball hats...) or, okay, even at the local sports bar or hanging out with your friends to watch the event - just don't. Especially designer stuff. The idea of designer stuff is that it's tasteful, well-made and either classic or fun. It doesn't need to have the name all over it - unless you need people to know YOU ARE WEARING DESIGNER CLOTHES! And, don't you have a better self-image than that?
Don't be a sheep. Find your own style. That goes for everyone.
One of today's pet-peeves - I hate seeing white women in Indian clothes. I mean the salwar kameez (tunic, pants and scarf) or choli suits or sari's. They are stunning on women who can pull it off. They look asinine on most Caucasian women. I love them - don't get me wrong - I have seen some that make me sigh with envy even, but on white girls - mostly ugh. With a few notable exceptions.
Fat girls should not wear shirts that reveal their bare stomachs, or shorts that are too short, or knit pants that are too tight. Unless you have one of those big bodies that is completely without cellulite, or white lines. You KNOW what I mean. I see no reason to be ashamed of a bigger body - but show off the GOOD parts. Most of us fat girls have fabulous killer boobs, stunning shoulders - and a lot of us have nice butts, no matter how big they are. But please, leave the midriff tops for at home wear.
Do not wear stained clothing. This is for everyone. Sure, sometimes you're at dinner and get tomato sauce on that white t-shirt (why is it always white?). Things happen. But, if the stain doesn't come out - save it for gardening, or painting, or better yet, throw it out because you already have a few stained shirts for those things. They just look bad.
People who wear other people's names plastered all over themselves. I don't get it. It just looks tacky. Unless you are at a sporting event and are a fan (I admit to Mario Andretti and Ayerton Senna baseball hats...) or, okay, even at the local sports bar or hanging out with your friends to watch the event - just don't. Especially designer stuff. The idea of designer stuff is that it's tasteful, well-made and either classic or fun. It doesn't need to have the name all over it - unless you need people to know YOU ARE WEARING DESIGNER CLOTHES! And, don't you have a better self-image than that?
Don't be a sheep. Find your own style. That goes for everyone.
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Hansa the Elephant
Some sad news that Hansa the elephant died.
We went and saw her when she was a baby, and she was so cute. Watched her on videos playing in the water, and with her ball. What struck me about her was her visible delight with playing in the water. Her joy and her mischief when she was rolling the ball with her keeper. If anyone every doubts animals feel emotions, they should have seen her.
Her mother Chai's obvious love and care of her, draping a trunk over her back.
Animal activists are saying that the Woodland Park Zoo is cruel to the elephants, and that elephants should not be kept in captivity, and should be running free.
In my opinion, that's a nice dream, but not very practical. Where should they run free - Africa? Poachers and a lack of habitat being what they are, not a very good place for a captive bred elephant. Asia? Ditto that, with the addition of the elephants that are still used for work in some places. I wish all animals could run free in their natural habitats - but unless there is some kind of plague that wipes out 15/16 of the human race, it's not going to happen.
I guess it's a case of how you believe - that captive breeding programs may end up saving the animals. That animals who are in zoos can help sensitise all people to the plight of the wild animals in the world.
But today, I am not thinking about all of that, nor do I care. I care that Hansa died. I feel for her caretakers, who must be devastated. I hope they figure out what happened, so it doesn't happen to another elephant. But, it could also have been One of Those Things.
Rest in Peace Hansa, you were loved.
We went and saw her when she was a baby, and she was so cute. Watched her on videos playing in the water, and with her ball. What struck me about her was her visible delight with playing in the water. Her joy and her mischief when she was rolling the ball with her keeper. If anyone every doubts animals feel emotions, they should have seen her.
Her mother Chai's obvious love and care of her, draping a trunk over her back.
Animal activists are saying that the Woodland Park Zoo is cruel to the elephants, and that elephants should not be kept in captivity, and should be running free.
In my opinion, that's a nice dream, but not very practical. Where should they run free - Africa? Poachers and a lack of habitat being what they are, not a very good place for a captive bred elephant. Asia? Ditto that, with the addition of the elephants that are still used for work in some places. I wish all animals could run free in their natural habitats - but unless there is some kind of plague that wipes out 15/16 of the human race, it's not going to happen.
I guess it's a case of how you believe - that captive breeding programs may end up saving the animals. That animals who are in zoos can help sensitise all people to the plight of the wild animals in the world.
But today, I am not thinking about all of that, nor do I care. I care that Hansa died. I feel for her caretakers, who must be devastated. I hope they figure out what happened, so it doesn't happen to another elephant. But, it could also have been One of Those Things.
Rest in Peace Hansa, you were loved.
Saturday, June 02, 2007
Video Gaming Drought
I miss gaming.
I used to spend anywhere from 1-12 hours a day playing World of Warcraft, or one of the many Sims variations. I like other kinds of games, too. So, why haven't I been?
A brief analysis shows that time has been a factor since about, oh March. When all the Stuff with Magic started. Then there was more Magical stuff. Then there was the floor re-do, which became urgent when you tossed in TS's surgery. Both of those together, plus work, plus normal stuff that has to be done. Writing more, a lot more. Blogging more, a lot more.
Every time I think I will have a weekend devoted to playing, I don't. Either something comes up, or I have to work, or it's far too glorious to be inside.
Now that all the bad stuff is over (knock on wood, and all) maybe I can get back to gaming.
I hope. At least a little.
I used to spend anywhere from 1-12 hours a day playing World of Warcraft, or one of the many Sims variations. I like other kinds of games, too. So, why haven't I been?
A brief analysis shows that time has been a factor since about, oh March. When all the Stuff with Magic started. Then there was more Magical stuff. Then there was the floor re-do, which became urgent when you tossed in TS's surgery. Both of those together, plus work, plus normal stuff that has to be done. Writing more, a lot more. Blogging more, a lot more.
Every time I think I will have a weekend devoted to playing, I don't. Either something comes up, or I have to work, or it's far too glorious to be inside.
Now that all the bad stuff is over (knock on wood, and all) maybe I can get back to gaming.
I hope. At least a little.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Cemeteries on Memorial Day
Today TS and I took my new camera to the two Pioneer Cemeteries near our house and took pictures.
(I got a new camera this weekend - it's a Nikon d80. Originally I had planned on the smaller, newbier D40x, but after some research I decided on the D80. It's a little more camera than I need, but I can grow into it. I hope.)
Since it was Memorial Day weekend all the dead who had been soldiers had flags decorating their graves. Even in the old pioneer cemetery, where no one is buried anymore. It felt lonely there.
A few years ago some vandals went through and knocked down a bunch of tombstones - stole the lamb off the top of of one of the children's graves. That seems sad to me. The historical society is still repairing the damage. Every few years Eagle Scouts make the cemetery their project, so there are people who care for it.
I had actually walked down the hill and taken pictures there years ago, so I might have some good pictures of it, pre-vandalism.
It was interesting though, and hopefully I got some good pictures.
(I got a new camera this weekend - it's a Nikon d80. Originally I had planned on the smaller, newbier D40x, but after some research I decided on the D80. It's a little more camera than I need, but I can grow into it. I hope.)
Since it was Memorial Day weekend all the dead who had been soldiers had flags decorating their graves. Even in the old pioneer cemetery, where no one is buried anymore. It felt lonely there.
A few years ago some vandals went through and knocked down a bunch of tombstones - stole the lamb off the top of of one of the children's graves. That seems sad to me. The historical society is still repairing the damage. Every few years Eagle Scouts make the cemetery their project, so there are people who care for it.
I had actually walked down the hill and taken pictures there years ago, so I might have some good pictures of it, pre-vandalism.
It was interesting though, and hopefully I got some good pictures.
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Old House Plants
I know there are probably older houseplants out there, but here are two old houseplants of that belong to TS and I.
The Norfolk pine is 31 years old, the Mother-in-law tongues are probably 50 years old.
The Norfolk pine has aluminum foil around the base to keep the cat from using it as a litter box. I am hoping that her doing so last week will not kill it. Although it survived the attentions of a 12 year old gardener (me) a busy teen, and a young newlywed without dying. It has been regulated to the utility room for a few years, but since Magic ate a bunch of the dirt I decided to move it back into the utility room so the new puppy won't have that opportunity.
I took the MIL tongues from my mom's house before she moved. They were plants she'd had before I was born, divided many times I'm sure. I started out with one kind of sickly one. It had been on her bathroom sill, and was pretty starved for light. It didn't take long to flourish with a little light and water.
My husband had a cactus from when he was 5 years old - we had it for at least 20 years before it died at about 32 years old. I also had an old jade plant from his grandmother, but it died not long after I got it - the trunk was hollow. I think his grandfather may have over-watered it when his grandmother was ill.
I try to water just once a week during the summer, once every couple of weeks in the winter.
Repot as needed. I rarely fertilize. I don't have a green thumb as much as I just find out about what different plants like, and try to provide that for them, as much as possible.
I wonder how old houseplants can get?
Do people have houseplants that are hundreds of years old?
I haven't been able to find much information on the Internet about this. I am sure the age would vary from plant to plant. If I find out anything else about this, I will post it later.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Riding The Bus
A news article in one of the local papers said bus ridership was up significantly, and I believe it!
I take the bus to work. It's not bad - there is a bus down the hill, and another one to work. The transfer is quick. Lately, however, transit has been packed. On a normal early day, (9:30am-6 pm) if the first bus is too packed, I have waited for next one 10 minutes later. Now IT'S packed.
I take both a SoundTransit bus and a King County Metro bus.
Part of it must be the rising gas prices. Even so, there seems to be more riders in the Seattle area.
Today I took a little earlier bus. I left a half hour earlier for work, and got off an hour earlier (took a short lunch). I don't usually do that, but with no ride from Renton there was the choice of leaving at 5 and getting home by 6:30, or leaving at 6 and getting home at 8:30. The Renton Transit Center is NOT where a sane person wants to hang out for an hour.
The first bus down the hill was packed. The bus to work was an articulated bus. It was my first ride in one since - who knows when. It was nice. And it was packed. On the way home, the bus back to the bottom of the hill was so packed I had to stand the whole way! I was shocked.
It's not the standing - more when I began taking this bus, oh, 15 years ago, there weren't many occupants. Riders had their choice of seats.
My favorite is the one across from the back door, on the driver's side. In case you were wondering.
Now, one is lucky to get a seat. It's good though - a packed bus means overall less carbon in the air, and fewer drivers on the road. Go, bus riders.
I take the bus to work. It's not bad - there is a bus down the hill, and another one to work. The transfer is quick. Lately, however, transit has been packed. On a normal early day, (9:30am-6 pm) if the first bus is too packed, I have waited for next one 10 minutes later. Now IT'S packed.
I take both a SoundTransit bus and a King County Metro bus.
Part of it must be the rising gas prices. Even so, there seems to be more riders in the Seattle area.
Today I took a little earlier bus. I left a half hour earlier for work, and got off an hour earlier (took a short lunch). I don't usually do that, but with no ride from Renton there was the choice of leaving at 5 and getting home by 6:30, or leaving at 6 and getting home at 8:30. The Renton Transit Center is NOT where a sane person wants to hang out for an hour.
The first bus down the hill was packed. The bus to work was an articulated bus. It was my first ride in one since - who knows when. It was nice. And it was packed. On the way home, the bus back to the bottom of the hill was so packed I had to stand the whole way! I was shocked.
It's not the standing - more when I began taking this bus, oh, 15 years ago, there weren't many occupants. Riders had their choice of seats.
My favorite is the one across from the back door, on the driver's side. In case you were wondering.
Now, one is lucky to get a seat. It's good though - a packed bus means overall less carbon in the air, and fewer drivers on the road. Go, bus riders.
Thursday, May 03, 2007
Another Fine Month You've Gotten Us Into....
So far, May has not been any better than March or April.
My house is still under construction. Tonight my washer and dryer have been taken out of commission until the utility room floor is fixed.
The worst problem is, in two or three weeks, The Saint may be out of commission for a couple of months. He's going to have surgery on his ear - but because of how they do it, and the muscles and nerves involved it is a little bit like brain surgery, even though the brain isn't involved. Hopefully.
So, at the mimimum, it will be day surgery, he will be off work for a week, and not able to fly, lift anything over 5 lbs, and a number of other things for 6 weeks. Worst case scenario - in the hospital for three days, off work for three weeks, and the same restrictions. Worst case scenario isn't likely. Still - that is six weeks that he's not able to lift anything, and probably he will be limited for awhile after that.
I am worried about him. I don't think I have to say it, but I should, because people have accused me of being mean to him about it. I am worried, and scared. I get pissed instead of sobbing and moaning and wailing.
Still, I am really, really hoping we get all the work done BEFORE his surgery, because otherwise we will be in an unfinished house all summer. That's not the biggest worry I have, but it is a worry.
So, now The Saint has to have surgery.
Another piece of pooh in the pile that this year has become.
I guess I better just write off May, and June, and look forward to July.
My house is still under construction. Tonight my washer and dryer have been taken out of commission until the utility room floor is fixed.
The worst problem is, in two or three weeks, The Saint may be out of commission for a couple of months. He's going to have surgery on his ear - but because of how they do it, and the muscles and nerves involved it is a little bit like brain surgery, even though the brain isn't involved. Hopefully.
So, at the mimimum, it will be day surgery, he will be off work for a week, and not able to fly, lift anything over 5 lbs, and a number of other things for 6 weeks. Worst case scenario - in the hospital for three days, off work for three weeks, and the same restrictions. Worst case scenario isn't likely. Still - that is six weeks that he's not able to lift anything, and probably he will be limited for awhile after that.
I am worried about him. I don't think I have to say it, but I should, because people have accused me of being mean to him about it. I am worried, and scared. I get pissed instead of sobbing and moaning and wailing.
Still, I am really, really hoping we get all the work done BEFORE his surgery, because otherwise we will be in an unfinished house all summer. That's not the biggest worry I have, but it is a worry.
So, now The Saint has to have surgery.
Another piece of pooh in the pile that this year has become.
I guess I better just write off May, and June, and look forward to July.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Kurt Cobain's Stuff
Courtney Love has announced she's selling a bunch of Kurt Cobain's belongings through Christie's auction house.
The Fangirl part of me would love to have something. The woman who heard Smells like Teen Spirit for the first time on KNDD, and my breath caught. The one who didn't realize until a lot later it was the same band who did that strange but interesting remake of Love Buzz.
Even though I was older than his average fan, I totally got Nirvana. He spoke to that geeky, fat, zit-faced girl who never thought she would ever have a boyfriend. The girl who wore the same pair of jeans for six months once - jeans with a plaid fake-fur patch on the knee.
Not because I didn't have other jeans, but I was making a statement. Don't ask me what the statement was, but it was a statement.
The high-school girl who wanted to live in Seattle, and have cats, and go to foreign films and dress only in clothing from Baby & Co. and Goodwill.
That was the girl inside the woman who heard Nirvana and knew that whoever wrote the songs understood what it was like to be an outsider. To not fit in with any group, and who was both conflicted and happy about it.
I actually knew Kurt was a junkie before it was common knowledge to the entire world. I worked with someone who was a 'greener, and still had ties to that community. ('greener refers to someone who attended Evergreen College, the alternative collage in Olympia.) We talked about going to a show - she thought we might even be able to get backstage on her friend's coattails. She warned me that Krist was pretty wild and drank a lot, and that Kurt was into heroin.
I didn't care, because it was the music I cared about, not him. Yeah, I thought he was awesome. It would have been cool to meet him, even though he wouldn't have had much interest in me. But it was his talent, and his words, and the music that spoke to me, not him, personally. Drugs - well drugs are only one part of who a person is. I might not like the drugs, but that doesn't mean the person doesn't have value.
My co-worker got engaged to a super-straight guy, and I felt strange about going to a show with kids ten years younger than me. I regret not going to see them live.
TS called me at work to tell me when he died. I knew it was coming - I don't know why, but I knew it was only a matter of time at that point. I was upset. It was probably the only time I cried when a real life person I didn't know died.
I don't know what would have happened if he'd lived. Cleaned up, become someone who helped knew and unknown bands get known. I don't know. Burned out and faded away...maybe. Stayed a junkie and pulled his wife down with him...I don't know, she seems pretty strong for that to have happened.
All I know was that his music captured something for me. Something that encapsulated a time, and a place, and the longing for something different.
So, the FANGIRL wonders what it would be like to own something of his.
I have my own Fender Mustang now. A sonic blue repro. I like it. I didn't buy it because of Kurt, I bought it because I liked it, and it made me smile to find out he once played them too. I can play a couple of Nirvana songs, as long as I stay away from F, and B. I like to plug in my amp, and crank up the sound, and I don't care if I suck, it just feels good to play. Sometimes I even write my own songs.
So, maybe I really don't need a "thing" to remind me of him. He already gave me the most important thing, his music.
The Fangirl part of me would love to have something. The woman who heard Smells like Teen Spirit for the first time on KNDD, and my breath caught. The one who didn't realize until a lot later it was the same band who did that strange but interesting remake of Love Buzz.
Even though I was older than his average fan, I totally got Nirvana. He spoke to that geeky, fat, zit-faced girl who never thought she would ever have a boyfriend. The girl who wore the same pair of jeans for six months once - jeans with a plaid fake-fur patch on the knee.
Not because I didn't have other jeans, but I was making a statement. Don't ask me what the statement was, but it was a statement.
The high-school girl who wanted to live in Seattle, and have cats, and go to foreign films and dress only in clothing from Baby & Co. and Goodwill.
That was the girl inside the woman who heard Nirvana and knew that whoever wrote the songs understood what it was like to be an outsider. To not fit in with any group, and who was both conflicted and happy about it.
I actually knew Kurt was a junkie before it was common knowledge to the entire world. I worked with someone who was a 'greener, and still had ties to that community. ('greener refers to someone who attended Evergreen College, the alternative collage in Olympia.) We talked about going to a show - she thought we might even be able to get backstage on her friend's coattails. She warned me that Krist was pretty wild and drank a lot, and that Kurt was into heroin.
I didn't care, because it was the music I cared about, not him. Yeah, I thought he was awesome. It would have been cool to meet him, even though he wouldn't have had much interest in me. But it was his talent, and his words, and the music that spoke to me, not him, personally. Drugs - well drugs are only one part of who a person is. I might not like the drugs, but that doesn't mean the person doesn't have value.
My co-worker got engaged to a super-straight guy, and I felt strange about going to a show with kids ten years younger than me. I regret not going to see them live.
TS called me at work to tell me when he died. I knew it was coming - I don't know why, but I knew it was only a matter of time at that point. I was upset. It was probably the only time I cried when a real life person I didn't know died.
I don't know what would have happened if he'd lived. Cleaned up, become someone who helped knew and unknown bands get known. I don't know. Burned out and faded away...maybe. Stayed a junkie and pulled his wife down with him...I don't know, she seems pretty strong for that to have happened.
All I know was that his music captured something for me. Something that encapsulated a time, and a place, and the longing for something different.
So, the FANGIRL wonders what it would be like to own something of his.
I have my own Fender Mustang now. A sonic blue repro. I like it. I didn't buy it because of Kurt, I bought it because I liked it, and it made me smile to find out he once played them too. I can play a couple of Nirvana songs, as long as I stay away from F, and B. I like to plug in my amp, and crank up the sound, and I don't care if I suck, it just feels good to play. Sometimes I even write my own songs.
So, maybe I really don't need a "thing" to remind me of him. He already gave me the most important thing, his music.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Tarot and Other Stuff and 47 Things about Me.
I bought too much stuff Friday.
I bought The Far Sight Tarot, and the Quantum Tarot.
Then I bought make up, Bare Escentuals, a mineral make-up a bunch of people at work use. It's one of those 5 minute make-up things - and anything that takes me 5 minutes is a good thing. I like sleep. But they have lots of cool stuff, so I got the starter kit, and an extra kit that had a few more colors in it for eyes. If I like it, I might buy the beyond the basics kit, and the eye kit.
I can't decide why I have the sudden urge to spend money. I also bought a bunch of clothes this month. Maybe I am trying to fill the hole that Magic left in my life with "stuff?" I tend to not be a big stuff-buyer. Then again, I am really into tarot, and I am into clothes, and I want to start wearing make-up again. So, it's a combination of all those things, I suppose.
Tonight the natives are restless. There are squealing car tires all over, and I can hear someones stereo blaring. I miss the days when we were surrounded by fields on three sides, the fourth side is our gravel road, with one row of houses on one side. I miss the days when horses used to get loose and come galloping down into our field. Not the time we had the perk holes going, but the other times. I miss not having to call the cops at least once a month because something is going on.
I don't really have a topic, I just feel like writing.
The lottery is up to 69 million dollars. That would be enough money. (See previous posts on what I'd do if I won the lottery, LOL.) Enough money to only work if I wanted to. Enough so we could buy my condo in the French Quarter, and TS's house in Hawaii. Maybe even a cabin on a lake in Alaska.
I'm working with the Templar tarot this week. It's kind of weird and creepy. I like it, even though I find images of angels that run through out it kind of uncomfortable. Still, it's no light fluffy-bunny deck. But the angels bug me.
Being raised in an anti-religious family. I just don't get the whole church thing. Or the Bible. Especially the Old Testament. Never been able to get past Leviticus. I keep thinking I should read it again, just because you should read it before you die, and all that, but - ugh. So bloody. So disgusting. I like some of the New Testament IDEAS, but most people who say they are religious use the Bible to judge people instead. And twist it to what they want it to say. Yuck.
Back to Tarot. A non-religious subject. Maybe I should post my tarot reviews on my own blog, just because I can. I don't know. Maybe I should have yet another blog, the tarot blog...no, too much. I can just post it here, I guess, if I feel like it. Tarot is a lot of things to me. A lot of people don't get it; but that's okay. Not my problem, at least not yet.
See this is the really RANDOM part of VG Randomized. It's kind of the way I think, but honestly, my mind is going about a million miles faster than my fingers can type.
I can feel a cold breeze, and I wonder where it's coming from. Probably from the floor, somehow. I am hoping Tink didn't go down under the floor. Sigh. I will be glad when it's all fixed.
TS is in the hot tub. I didn't feel like getting in - I needed some chill out time, and if I go into the hot tub I have to make sure my hair is completely dry, otherwise I wake up all plugged up.
I found another cool site from our Learning 2.0 (27things) class we are taking at work. I am an advocate. Which means, I kind of have a clue about what we're doing, so I get the lessons early, so I can help people who need it. Anyway, the cool site is 43 Things. Like, a giant online LIST. I love lists. I might sign on there.
Well, since I am so bored, and this is going to be a long blog I guess, here is 47 Things about Me.
Yes, List and a quiz both - my favorites.
1. FIRST NAME? Barbra
2. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? No. Barbra Streisand was still an unknown when my parents named me. They liked the alternate spelling.
3. WHEN DID YOU LAST CRY? Yesterday afternoon, when I opened up the cardboard box that held Magic's ashes.
4. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Yes, it is unique. Messy, but unique.
5. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Roast Beef, but I mostly eat turkey. Pastrami is a runner up. Good Pastrami.
6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? No. I am not good at the friend thing. I like my alone time. I like the idea of friends, just not the rest.
7. DO YOU HAVE A JOURNAL? I have my written journal. I've kept one since I was a kid, off and on, and then from when I was in High School on. Also many blogs.
8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Yep.
9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? I wouldn't NOW, too fat. I might if I got skinnier.
10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Rice Crispies.
11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Usually not. Most of my shoes don't have laces (ugly old Birkenstocks...)
12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Mentally, yes. Physically - parts of me are.
13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM FLAVOR? Vanilla. But really, I like everything but say, banana, or anything with peanuts.
14. SHOE SIZE? 39 or 8 or 7 www
RED OR PINK? Red
16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? I am very self-centered, and I am a recovering Drama Queen.
17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? My dad. I could talk to him about anything, almost.
18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? This is a BLOG. That would be very scary.
19. WHAT COLOR PANTS, SHIRT AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? No Shoes ATM. A grey ribbed cotton tank top, and my Gray cotton puppy print BIG DOG jammie bottoms.
20. LAST THING YOU ATE? Udderly Chocolate Tillamook Ice Cream, and Diet Coke.
21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? The jingle of Nemo's dog tags as he walks through the house on the way to the doggie door, and outside. TS is watching his race, so I can hear the cars on the track, and the commentator. But I'm not really listening.
.22. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Scarlett
23. FAVORITE SMELL? Summer Rain
24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? TS, calling me to tell me he would be late picking me up.
25. THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE YOU ARE ATTRACTED TO? I am not attracted to people like that anymore. But when I WAS - it was the eyes. Were they kind? Hard? The expression in them was important. Also the lips - I like lips that seem kissable, not tight, angry lips. Lips that seem like they would smile easily.
26. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON you stole THIS from? I don't know her. I just ran across it when I was searching for something else.
27. FAVORITE DRINK? Non-alcoholic - Diet Coke, Coffee, Water, Sprite with pom juice, Coffee, and V8, which I can't drink anymore. And did I mention Coffee??? Alcoholic - wine, Vodka Gimlets, Vodka and OJ.
28. FAVORITE SPORT? Karting, to watch...baseball, maybe. Live.
29. EYE COLOR? Gray, but kind of a dark gray.
30. HAT SIZE? Medium
31. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? Yes, sometimes.
32. FAVORITE FOOD? Too many. The only things I don't like at all are peanuts and raisins in other food, and pineapple on pizza. Okay, there are some things I would not eat, like horse or dog, or even rabbit (for reasons too lengthy to go into).
33. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Both. Depends on the mood. I like scary movies with happy endings. I prefer not to watch movies with sad endings. Real life is sad enough.
34 - there's no 34!
35. SUMMER OR WINTER? Summer! I love the world from May until the end of October...
36. HUGS OR KISSES? Both, please. But only from TS. Not a touchy-feely person.
37. FAVORITE DESSERT? All of them. From fresh fruit to gooey-ooey stuff....
38. WHO IS MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Probably nobody, but I don't care.
39. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Well, that would be the same as 38
40. WHAT BOOKS ARE YOU READING? Biography of Nirvana by Everett True (?), and Good Times, Bad Boys by Melanie Murray.
42. WHAT DID YOU WATCH LAST NIGHT ON TV? Ugly Betty, that was Tivo'd. I don't watch live TV much. I hate commercials.
43. FAVORITE SOUNDS? Rain, Stream in the woods, birds singing. Oh, frogs - I love that.
44. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Heh. STONES!!!
45. THE FURTHEST YOU’VE BEEN FROM HOME? New Orleans, I think.
46. WHAT’S YOUR SPECIAL TALENT? Writing, understanding people with accents, figuring things out, and pretending I am a nice person, when I'm not.
47. WHERE WERE YOU BORN? Seattle
48. WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? I lifted it from a blog.
Okay, I guess I am done for the night. This has been a VERY random blog. Usually I have a subject in mind, but tonight I was just rambling.
Hopefully I am done buying "stuff" for awhile. Hopefully all this writing will be cathartic.
Wow. I didn't spell one word wrong, according to my friend Spellchecker. That's got to be a first.
I bought The Far Sight Tarot, and the Quantum Tarot.
Then I bought make up, Bare Escentuals, a mineral make-up a bunch of people at work use. It's one of those 5 minute make-up things - and anything that takes me 5 minutes is a good thing. I like sleep. But they have lots of cool stuff, so I got the starter kit, and an extra kit that had a few more colors in it for eyes. If I like it, I might buy the beyond the basics kit, and the eye kit.
I can't decide why I have the sudden urge to spend money. I also bought a bunch of clothes this month. Maybe I am trying to fill the hole that Magic left in my life with "stuff?" I tend to not be a big stuff-buyer. Then again, I am really into tarot, and I am into clothes, and I want to start wearing make-up again. So, it's a combination of all those things, I suppose.
Tonight the natives are restless. There are squealing car tires all over, and I can hear someones stereo blaring. I miss the days when we were surrounded by fields on three sides, the fourth side is our gravel road, with one row of houses on one side. I miss the days when horses used to get loose and come galloping down into our field. Not the time we had the perk holes going, but the other times. I miss not having to call the cops at least once a month because something is going on.
I don't really have a topic, I just feel like writing.
The lottery is up to 69 million dollars. That would be enough money. (See previous posts on what I'd do if I won the lottery, LOL.) Enough money to only work if I wanted to. Enough so we could buy my condo in the French Quarter, and TS's house in Hawaii. Maybe even a cabin on a lake in Alaska.
I'm working with the Templar tarot this week. It's kind of weird and creepy. I like it, even though I find images of angels that run through out it kind of uncomfortable. Still, it's no light fluffy-bunny deck. But the angels bug me.
Being raised in an anti-religious family. I just don't get the whole church thing. Or the Bible. Especially the Old Testament. Never been able to get past Leviticus. I keep thinking I should read it again, just because you should read it before you die, and all that, but - ugh. So bloody. So disgusting. I like some of the New Testament IDEAS, but most people who say they are religious use the Bible to judge people instead. And twist it to what they want it to say. Yuck.
Back to Tarot. A non-religious subject. Maybe I should post my tarot reviews on my own blog, just because I can. I don't know. Maybe I should have yet another blog, the tarot blog...no, too much. I can just post it here, I guess, if I feel like it. Tarot is a lot of things to me. A lot of people don't get it; but that's okay. Not my problem, at least not yet.
See this is the really RANDOM part of VG Randomized. It's kind of the way I think, but honestly, my mind is going about a million miles faster than my fingers can type.
I can feel a cold breeze, and I wonder where it's coming from. Probably from the floor, somehow. I am hoping Tink didn't go down under the floor. Sigh. I will be glad when it's all fixed.
TS is in the hot tub. I didn't feel like getting in - I needed some chill out time, and if I go into the hot tub I have to make sure my hair is completely dry, otherwise I wake up all plugged up.
I found another cool site from our Learning 2.0 (27things) class we are taking at work. I am an advocate. Which means, I kind of have a clue about what we're doing, so I get the lessons early, so I can help people who need it. Anyway, the cool site is 43 Things. Like, a giant online LIST. I love lists. I might sign on there.
Well, since I am so bored, and this is going to be a long blog I guess, here is 47 Things about Me.
Yes, List and a quiz both - my favorites.
1. FIRST NAME? Barbra
2. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? No. Barbra Streisand was still an unknown when my parents named me. They liked the alternate spelling.
3. WHEN DID YOU LAST CRY? Yesterday afternoon, when I opened up the cardboard box that held Magic's ashes.
4. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Yes, it is unique. Messy, but unique.
5. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Roast Beef, but I mostly eat turkey. Pastrami is a runner up. Good Pastrami.
6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? No. I am not good at the friend thing. I like my alone time. I like the idea of friends, just not the rest.
7. DO YOU HAVE A JOURNAL? I have my written journal. I've kept one since I was a kid, off and on, and then from when I was in High School on. Also many blogs.
8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Yep.
9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? I wouldn't NOW, too fat. I might if I got skinnier.
10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Rice Crispies.
11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Usually not. Most of my shoes don't have laces (ugly old Birkenstocks...)
12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Mentally, yes. Physically - parts of me are.
13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM FLAVOR? Vanilla. But really, I like everything but say, banana, or anything with peanuts.
14. SHOE SIZE? 39 or 8 or 7 www
RED OR PINK? Red
16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? I am very self-centered, and I am a recovering Drama Queen.
17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? My dad. I could talk to him about anything, almost.
18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? This is a BLOG. That would be very scary.
19. WHAT COLOR PANTS, SHIRT AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? No Shoes ATM. A grey ribbed cotton tank top, and my Gray cotton puppy print BIG DOG jammie bottoms.
20. LAST THING YOU ATE? Udderly Chocolate Tillamook Ice Cream, and Diet Coke.
21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? The jingle of Nemo's dog tags as he walks through the house on the way to the doggie door, and outside. TS is watching his race, so I can hear the cars on the track, and the commentator. But I'm not really listening.
.22. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Scarlett
23. FAVORITE SMELL? Summer Rain
24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? TS, calling me to tell me he would be late picking me up.
25. THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE YOU ARE ATTRACTED TO? I am not attracted to people like that anymore. But when I WAS - it was the eyes. Were they kind? Hard? The expression in them was important. Also the lips - I like lips that seem kissable, not tight, angry lips. Lips that seem like they would smile easily.
26. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON you stole THIS from? I don't know her. I just ran across it when I was searching for something else.
27. FAVORITE DRINK? Non-alcoholic - Diet Coke, Coffee, Water, Sprite with pom juice, Coffee, and V8, which I can't drink anymore. And did I mention Coffee??? Alcoholic - wine, Vodka Gimlets, Vodka and OJ.
28. FAVORITE SPORT? Karting, to watch...baseball, maybe. Live.
29. EYE COLOR? Gray, but kind of a dark gray.
30. HAT SIZE? Medium
31. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? Yes, sometimes.
32. FAVORITE FOOD? Too many. The only things I don't like at all are peanuts and raisins in other food, and pineapple on pizza. Okay, there are some things I would not eat, like horse or dog, or even rabbit (for reasons too lengthy to go into).
33. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Both. Depends on the mood. I like scary movies with happy endings. I prefer not to watch movies with sad endings. Real life is sad enough.
34 - there's no 34!
35. SUMMER OR WINTER? Summer! I love the world from May until the end of October...
36. HUGS OR KISSES? Both, please. But only from TS. Not a touchy-feely person.
37. FAVORITE DESSERT? All of them. From fresh fruit to gooey-ooey stuff....
38. WHO IS MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Probably nobody, but I don't care.
39. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Well, that would be the same as 38
40. WHAT BOOKS ARE YOU READING? Biography of Nirvana by Everett True (?), and Good Times, Bad Boys by Melanie Murray.
42. WHAT DID YOU WATCH LAST NIGHT ON TV? Ugly Betty, that was Tivo'd. I don't watch live TV much. I hate commercials.
43. FAVORITE SOUNDS? Rain, Stream in the woods, birds singing. Oh, frogs - I love that.
44. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Heh. STONES!!!
45. THE FURTHEST YOU’VE BEEN FROM HOME? New Orleans, I think.
46. WHAT’S YOUR SPECIAL TALENT? Writing, understanding people with accents, figuring things out, and pretending I am a nice person, when I'm not.
47. WHERE WERE YOU BORN? Seattle
48. WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? I lifted it from a blog.
Okay, I guess I am done for the night. This has been a VERY random blog. Usually I have a subject in mind, but tonight I was just rambling.
Hopefully I am done buying "stuff" for awhile. Hopefully all this writing will be cathartic.
Wow. I didn't spell one word wrong, according to my friend Spellchecker. That's got to be a first.
Friday, April 27, 2007
New Blogs
I have just started three new blogs.
I thought it would be fun.
One will be a dog blog. First, I will talk about dogs we have known and loved. Childhood Dogs, and then the dogs we have had as a couple, and then when we get our new puppy, we will blog about her/him. I am planning a daily blog about life with a new puppy. With pictures. And everything.
Then, after I had the bright idea about a dog blog, I thought, why not a cat blog, too? We have had numerous cats. Right now, we are down to one cat - the satanic cat, Tinkerbelle. Still, cats are interesting creatures, and once Tink is gone, we will be getting kittens. (Yes, plural. Because one cat is not enough - but Tinkerbell absolutely adores being the solitary cat in the house. So, until she is gone (which will probably be another 10 years minimum, barring Unforseen Events) no kitties.
Then I thought - Critter Blog!
Even though we are not actively planning on any more critter pets, besides Ernie, Turdie and The Fish, I will probably be adding more fish. And who knows, maybe another critter. I've often wanted a real chameleon. So, something fun to keep me writing.
I thought it would be fun.
One will be a dog blog. First, I will talk about dogs we have known and loved. Childhood Dogs, and then the dogs we have had as a couple, and then when we get our new puppy, we will blog about her/him. I am planning a daily blog about life with a new puppy. With pictures. And everything.
Then, after I had the bright idea about a dog blog, I thought, why not a cat blog, too? We have had numerous cats. Right now, we are down to one cat - the satanic cat, Tinkerbelle. Still, cats are interesting creatures, and once Tink is gone, we will be getting kittens. (Yes, plural. Because one cat is not enough - but Tinkerbell absolutely adores being the solitary cat in the house. So, until she is gone (which will probably be another 10 years minimum, barring Unforseen Events) no kitties.
Then I thought - Critter Blog!
Even though we are not actively planning on any more critter pets, besides Ernie, Turdie and The Fish, I will probably be adding more fish. And who knows, maybe another critter. I've often wanted a real chameleon. So, something fun to keep me writing.
If you are interested in checking out any of the new blogs, head over to
Not much there at the moment, but keep your eye out.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Randomess Squared
I have been even more random than usual.
I have been thinking a lot about racism, sexism, and all that other crap.
I am going to be deaf no longer.
I want those people to know it is not acceptable.
I am going to write letters. Make phone calls. Those are the easy things.
The hard thing is to politely tell an elderly patron that I find it offensive she is making an unacceptable comment about a racial group.
Or the elderly man that I do not care to hear his comments on why women should never be in the army.
I have yet to come up with a good overall strategy for this.
So if anyone has any suggestions, feel free.
I have been thinking a lot about death.
Probably because of Magic.
I don't know if there is a heaven or not. I lean toward the "when we are dead , we are dead" theory. Or, whatever we transform into is not "us" but either becomes part of something larger, or something else entirely. I like the idea of reincarnation. I have theories. But truly, we will not know what happens after we die, until we ourselves are dead.
I know that if heaven doesn't allow pets, I am absolutely not going.
I have been thinking about extra senses.
I think we have them.
I don't know if some people have them more strongly than others. I think nearly everyone has "something" I do think they are leftover from a time when we needed more than just our five senses to survive. I also think that someday what we now view as psychic or extraordinary phenomenon will be explained by science. Why, after all, does tarot work? What about things people have seen that can't be explained? Or felt? Or known? I have personally had all these experiences, and I am a realistic person. Although I have an excellent imagination, I tend to be a sceptic more than a believer. There are some things I have personally experienced that can't be explained away by coincidence.
I have been also thinking about projects.
We have a lot of them this spring. Fix the wet floor in our house. New floors in the utility room. Clean the carpeting. New doors, front and back. Build a fence in the back yard. Clean up the flowerbeds. There is a lot to do this year. I am ready.
I am also thinking of starting a daily blog when we start getting information about our new puppy.
With pictures.
About getting ready for a new dog.
Mistakes we make, and mistakes we made in the past.
Maybe even blog about our other dogs.
It might be fun.
If anyone has any suggestions or comments, feel free.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Fun Home Projects You can Do......
So, this is what happens when the hot water leaks under the house.
Actually, even more of the floor will have to be cut away and replaced, but we have to live here while everything is drying out. Fun, huh?
Nemo Doesn't think so.
During they day when we're at work we have to put boards over the hole so Nemo can get in and out and walk around. If it was just the living room (right picture) we could just lock him in the utility room - but he has to go in and out through the utility room.
All the insulation will have to be replaced too.
We are just lucky that TS can do all the repairs himself, and not call in someone. But, I get to get rid of the ugly vinyl floor in the utility room.
And a new back door.
So, it's not all bad.
Just a pain in the neck, and the back, and the shoulder for Ken, until it gets done.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Let's Just Forget April, Okay?
This has been a horrible month so far. I want to skip to the end of all this heartache.
Magic died. I had the flu. Our floor in the living room and utility room is wavy like the ocean, probably because of a water leak.
Our Nephew broke his back racing his motorcycle. Luckily he will be okay, but it was very scary.
Upheaval and tension at work, with people quitting like rats jumping off a ship. Okay, most of them are because of other things, but it doesn't seem that way.
The shootings at Virginia Tech by a mentally disturbed guy. 33 people dead, because nobody was able to help that kid with whatever was wrong with him.
I am not one of those people who think guns should be completely banned. I grew up with a dad who hunted, who had a veritable arsenal, and who kept a loaded pistol in the bottom drawer of his dresser. Yes, we knew about it. We also knew if we touched it without meaning it, we would wish we were dead. If the house was being broken into, we were instructed to shoot to kill. (Yeah, RIGHT!)
It is unlikely that I will ever have a weapon in my house. I don't hunt, and it is highly improbable, barring total apocalypse, that I ever will. TS does not hunt.
OOps, almost got on the soap box, climbing down now.
A terrible week. A not-so fabulous month.
Let's just skip the rest of April, and go directly to May. The end of May. Maybe June.
Hopefully by then the floor will be fixed. Our nephew will be fixed. The worst of the horror at the VT massacre will be over. Maybe they will be able to help the next potential killer, if they can figure out why that guy snapped.
The weather will be good (we hope) and who knows, maybe by then, all things going well, we will be preparing for the arrival of a new puppy, that will help fill the empty spot where Magic was. Never replace - but will be loved for its own self.
I can hope, can't I?
We need some good news. So, on to June, Okay?
Magic died. I had the flu. Our floor in the living room and utility room is wavy like the ocean, probably because of a water leak.
Our Nephew broke his back racing his motorcycle. Luckily he will be okay, but it was very scary.
Upheaval and tension at work, with people quitting like rats jumping off a ship. Okay, most of them are because of other things, but it doesn't seem that way.
The shootings at Virginia Tech by a mentally disturbed guy. 33 people dead, because nobody was able to help that kid with whatever was wrong with him.
I am not one of those people who think guns should be completely banned. I grew up with a dad who hunted, who had a veritable arsenal, and who kept a loaded pistol in the bottom drawer of his dresser. Yes, we knew about it. We also knew if we touched it without meaning it, we would wish we were dead. If the house was being broken into, we were instructed to shoot to kill. (Yeah, RIGHT!)
It is unlikely that I will ever have a weapon in my house. I don't hunt, and it is highly improbable, barring total apocalypse, that I ever will. TS does not hunt.
OOps, almost got on the soap box, climbing down now.
A terrible week. A not-so fabulous month.
Let's just skip the rest of April, and go directly to May. The end of May. Maybe June.
Hopefully by then the floor will be fixed. Our nephew will be fixed. The worst of the horror at the VT massacre will be over. Maybe they will be able to help the next potential killer, if they can figure out why that guy snapped.
The weather will be good (we hope) and who knows, maybe by then, all things going well, we will be preparing for the arrival of a new puppy, that will help fill the empty spot where Magic was. Never replace - but will be loved for its own self.
I can hope, can't I?
We need some good news. So, on to June, Okay?
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Rest in Peace, Magic Man
We had to euthanize our dog Magic Man this week. I woke up Tuesday morning, and felt horrible. I decided to feed the dogs before I called in sick, so I could go back to bed, and not get pestered.
Magic didn't eat. Not only did he not eat, he threw up his cheese.I immediately woke up TS, and told him we needed to get Magic into the vet right away, something was wrong. He got up and showered while I called in to work, and then while I was in the shower he called the vet and told them we were coming in. When we got there, I went in and filled out paperwork, and TS took Magic outside so he could pee. Magic collapsed in the parking lot, and had to be brought in on a gurney. I knew then it was bad, but hoped he was just dehydrated because of a lack of fluids.
The vet techs took him in back, and showed us into a room. A bit later one of the techs came in, and said that after they started him on an IV he was much better. His gums had been pale, but pinked up. His tail was wagging, as usual. X-rays would be taken.We were thinking it was another obstruction, but we couldn't figure out what he could have possibly eaten.
Yes, he had eaten a few things in the recent past, but nothing lately. We had been vigilant since the sock incident. Buying a covered hamper, since we thought that he'd purloined the last socks from a full hamper. Getting a bathroom garbage can with a step-opening cover. Making sure tempting items were thrown away, put away, or well out of reach (in Magic's case this meant the top of the armoire, or entertainment center). Finally the doctor came in and told us she thought there was another obstruction. She showed us the x-rays, and said it was concerning, because the only clear soft-tissue picture in his abdomen was his kidneys. The intestines were unclear. But there were lots of gas bubbles (which by this time we knew meant blockage). She asked us if we would like the radiologist to take a look, although it would take longer. Of course, we said. The radiologist wanted to take more pictures. The doctor told us it might be awhile, since Magic was groggy from the pain medication they'd given him, and we should go. Because of his previous surgeries and problems, they wanted the board-certified soft tissue surgeon to preform the surgery. We said, fine. Paid for the surgery. Left.
A few hours later, I got a call. Yes, I was still sick as a dog, and worried about my dog. The news was worse than even my imagination. Magic did not have a blockage. The vet felt he had not healed properly after the second surgery. His intestines were stuck together, adhesions had apparently blocked the flow of blood, and now his intestines were dying. Parts were dead. They felt other organs could even be involved, but there was no way to know for sure, because they couldn't see anything. He was bleeding internally. The radiologist felt there was no possible hope. The surgeon was ready to go, but they had to go right then. Everyone made it clear he didn't have much of a chance, that probably the surgeon would be calling us from the operating table. I told them I had to talk to TS, but I would get right back to them.
I was in shock. This couldn't be happening. I talked to him, and he called them back, to make sure I didn't miss anything. He asked if, on the slight chance they could save him, if Magic would heal correctly. The vet said there was no way to know for sure - but it was likely, with his past history he would have the same, or similar issues. So even if they operated and as unlikely as it seemed, saves him, he might go through this again.
TS came home, and we talked it over. Initially, I wanted to do the surgery. I did NOT want to make the decision to let my boy go without fighting until the end, no matter what. But as we talked, I remembered the discussion we'd had after Magi's second surgery, when things looked grim. How I'd felt I would probably not want to put him through a third surgery, without being certain they could fix him. How bad I'd feel if he died on a cold operating table, surrounded by people who didn't love him. Or worse yet, come through this surgery and then have the same thing happen again, after he had seemingly recovered - when he really wasn't. We decided to let him go.
It was the hardest decision I have had to make. Yeah, maybe I'm lucky in that respect, but I don't feel lucky.
He wagged his tail when they brought him in, even though he was groggy, and in pain, even with the morphine.
We spent some time with him. The tech who came in to give us our refund for the surgery Magi wasn't having was crying, and apologized. I told her it was okay, I appreciated the fact she cared. It was a very peaceful ending. His head was in my lap. After it was over, he didn't look like my Magic anymore. Magic was gone.
The worst things about it were that there was no obvious sign of any problem. After his surgery, he was back to normal within a week. We followed all the instructions the vet had given us. He was eating normally, playing, digging, being his normal merry self. We played fetch the night before, and he had a great time, shaking his head as he brought back "Grunter" his rubber ball with feet and devil ears.
There were a few things that made me wonder if all was well, but nothing that made even paranoid me call the vet. Nothing abnormal, for a dog. Eating grass - so was Nemo. (So have every single one of our dogs - sick or well.) No diarrhea, which would have sent me to the phone immediately. Maybe the occasional soft stool, but then they would be fine. Nothing that couldn't be blamed on a sneaked french fry, or his still-tender system adjusting to a foot less of intestine. Not laying the same way he did pre-surgery. I think I even asked the vet who took his stitches out about that. She said he might be a little tender for awhile, things were still healing.
It was shocking to loose him so suddenly, and so young. I am having a very hard time. I know I will be okay, but it's so sad. He was such a lover. Such a sweet, merry, fun dog. He loved everyone, and everyone loved him back. I miss him jumping on the bed when the alarm goes off. I miss him coming over and just laying his head on my leg for a minute. Hugging him. The glint in his eye when he got something forbidden. His little "oof" when he lay his head down on my foot. His excitement when he saw something new. His lack of fear of the vacuum cleaner; he thought it was the Best Toy Ever. Watching him and Nemo play in the snow. His joy when we brought home a new toy. And of course, his gusto for food. His doggy kisses, even the slobbery ones, that grossed me out and made me laugh at the same time. His big old feet, and his soft nose. He is the fourth animal we have lost in a year. Cocoa to the wild, Suzie to cancer, Kiel to diabetes, and now Magic. I am so sad.
Magic didn't eat. Not only did he not eat, he threw up his cheese.I immediately woke up TS, and told him we needed to get Magic into the vet right away, something was wrong. He got up and showered while I called in to work, and then while I was in the shower he called the vet and told them we were coming in. When we got there, I went in and filled out paperwork, and TS took Magic outside so he could pee. Magic collapsed in the parking lot, and had to be brought in on a gurney. I knew then it was bad, but hoped he was just dehydrated because of a lack of fluids.
The vet techs took him in back, and showed us into a room. A bit later one of the techs came in, and said that after they started him on an IV he was much better. His gums had been pale, but pinked up. His tail was wagging, as usual. X-rays would be taken.We were thinking it was another obstruction, but we couldn't figure out what he could have possibly eaten.
Yes, he had eaten a few things in the recent past, but nothing lately. We had been vigilant since the sock incident. Buying a covered hamper, since we thought that he'd purloined the last socks from a full hamper. Getting a bathroom garbage can with a step-opening cover. Making sure tempting items were thrown away, put away, or well out of reach (in Magic's case this meant the top of the armoire, or entertainment center). Finally the doctor came in and told us she thought there was another obstruction. She showed us the x-rays, and said it was concerning, because the only clear soft-tissue picture in his abdomen was his kidneys. The intestines were unclear. But there were lots of gas bubbles (which by this time we knew meant blockage). She asked us if we would like the radiologist to take a look, although it would take longer. Of course, we said. The radiologist wanted to take more pictures. The doctor told us it might be awhile, since Magic was groggy from the pain medication they'd given him, and we should go. Because of his previous surgeries and problems, they wanted the board-certified soft tissue surgeon to preform the surgery. We said, fine. Paid for the surgery. Left.
A few hours later, I got a call. Yes, I was still sick as a dog, and worried about my dog. The news was worse than even my imagination. Magic did not have a blockage. The vet felt he had not healed properly after the second surgery. His intestines were stuck together, adhesions had apparently blocked the flow of blood, and now his intestines were dying. Parts were dead. They felt other organs could even be involved, but there was no way to know for sure, because they couldn't see anything. He was bleeding internally. The radiologist felt there was no possible hope. The surgeon was ready to go, but they had to go right then. Everyone made it clear he didn't have much of a chance, that probably the surgeon would be calling us from the operating table. I told them I had to talk to TS, but I would get right back to them.
I was in shock. This couldn't be happening. I talked to him, and he called them back, to make sure I didn't miss anything. He asked if, on the slight chance they could save him, if Magic would heal correctly. The vet said there was no way to know for sure - but it was likely, with his past history he would have the same, or similar issues. So even if they operated and as unlikely as it seemed, saves him, he might go through this again.
TS came home, and we talked it over. Initially, I wanted to do the surgery. I did NOT want to make the decision to let my boy go without fighting until the end, no matter what. But as we talked, I remembered the discussion we'd had after Magi's second surgery, when things looked grim. How I'd felt I would probably not want to put him through a third surgery, without being certain they could fix him. How bad I'd feel if he died on a cold operating table, surrounded by people who didn't love him. Or worse yet, come through this surgery and then have the same thing happen again, after he had seemingly recovered - when he really wasn't. We decided to let him go.
It was the hardest decision I have had to make. Yeah, maybe I'm lucky in that respect, but I don't feel lucky.
He wagged his tail when they brought him in, even though he was groggy, and in pain, even with the morphine.
We spent some time with him. The tech who came in to give us our refund for the surgery Magi wasn't having was crying, and apologized. I told her it was okay, I appreciated the fact she cared. It was a very peaceful ending. His head was in my lap. After it was over, he didn't look like my Magic anymore. Magic was gone.
The worst things about it were that there was no obvious sign of any problem. After his surgery, he was back to normal within a week. We followed all the instructions the vet had given us. He was eating normally, playing, digging, being his normal merry self. We played fetch the night before, and he had a great time, shaking his head as he brought back "Grunter" his rubber ball with feet and devil ears.
There were a few things that made me wonder if all was well, but nothing that made even paranoid me call the vet. Nothing abnormal, for a dog. Eating grass - so was Nemo. (So have every single one of our dogs - sick or well.) No diarrhea, which would have sent me to the phone immediately. Maybe the occasional soft stool, but then they would be fine. Nothing that couldn't be blamed on a sneaked french fry, or his still-tender system adjusting to a foot less of intestine. Not laying the same way he did pre-surgery. I think I even asked the vet who took his stitches out about that. She said he might be a little tender for awhile, things were still healing.
It was shocking to loose him so suddenly, and so young. I am having a very hard time. I know I will be okay, but it's so sad. He was such a lover. Such a sweet, merry, fun dog. He loved everyone, and everyone loved him back. I miss him jumping on the bed when the alarm goes off. I miss him coming over and just laying his head on my leg for a minute. Hugging him. The glint in his eye when he got something forbidden. His little "oof" when he lay his head down on my foot. His excitement when he saw something new. His lack of fear of the vacuum cleaner; he thought it was the Best Toy Ever. Watching him and Nemo play in the snow. His joy when we brought home a new toy. And of course, his gusto for food. His doggy kisses, even the slobbery ones, that grossed me out and made me laugh at the same time. His big old feet, and his soft nose. He is the fourth animal we have lost in a year. Cocoa to the wild, Suzie to cancer, Kiel to diabetes, and now Magic. I am so sad.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
15 Things We Learned about Puppies & Dogs
This is in memory of our Magic Man. Born August 31, 2006, died April 11, 2007.
And all the other dogs we've had over the years.
1. Never punish your dog for something you didn't see him do.
They don't really "get" that you are yelling at them about what they did. If you feel the need to be mad, stomp around and yell things like "WHO did this bad thing!" They will get the idea you aren't happy, but you won't end up with a dog that cringes when you yell.
I remember yelling at poor Toby for a lot of stuff. He did a lot of bad stuff, but he really didn't understand why I was so mad at him. He was
2. Never rub your dogs nose in his mistakes, or hit him with a newspaper, or hit him for any reason when potty training. (Never hit your dog, period.)
The only time it's okay to yell at your dog when potty training is if you catch him in the act of going potty. Then say "NO", and take him outside right away, and praise, praise praise. There are lots of great places that offer puppy kindergarten classes that will help you potty train your puppy in ways that make your life easier, and are effective and KIND.
3. Gentle training is better than strict training.
You want to make obedience fun, not a time of punishment. All the dogs we trained this way were much better behaved, and faster to learn. The old school obedience training involved mean corrections that were not necessary.
4. Training your puppy when he's young is the best.
Don't wait until you have a problem dog, start training right away. Puppies are so eager to learn, and eager to please - it is so easy to do and doesn't take much time. (Sorry Toby) Training is like a game to them. With treats.
5. Never give your dogs toys that are a.) small enough to fit completely into his mouth or b.) look like anything you don't want him to destroy.
This includes shoe shaped toys, stuffed toys (especially if you have kids) (we don't so our dogs sometimes get stuffed toys). Some dogs, like our Suzie, could not have toys with squeakers. She would rip the toy apart immediately to get at the squeaker. We also don't give rawhide toys. Our Nemo as a puppy felt that rawhide was the same as leather. Which led to the destruction of a few pairs of leather shoes, the leather around the tops of three pairs of tennis shoes, a leather belt (complete except for the buckle) and a couch cushion. I am missing a few things.
We have never given socks, except for possibly to Toby and Tasha, who were smaller dogs. Big mistake, Tasha was a clothes thief. Tasha used to steal clothing out of the dryer and bury it. Toys that fit in a dogs mouth can be swallowed. Don't give tennis balls to dogs that can swallow them. There are over sized tennis balls for this. I am very leery of nylabones, greenies, or anything like that. Our dogs jaws are too powerful. They can eat things that will really hurt them. They find enough stuff on their own, don't let toys be a part of it.
6. Start grooming your dog once a week when he's very young.
It's especially easy not to worry about short haired dogs. If you groom them once a week you can keep an eye on any skin problems, or hurt places, in addition to having your dogs used to grooming tools, and not thinking they are toys (Magic) or Items That Might Hurt Them (Nemo).
Toby, the Cocker Spaniel hated to have his feet touched. Suzie was always Very Concerned about the toenail clippers (although she would allow them to be clipped).
7. Take your dog many places when he's young. Introduce him to lots of people, and other dogs. Socialize, socialize, socialize.
This should almost be number one. It's true that every dog has a personality. Toby could be nice, but he was stubborn, and had the Cocker rage problem. Tasha was very, very smart, and very good. Both of them could have been much better dogs (with reservations) if we had been better at socializing them. Toby was good with people, but bad with other dogs. Tasha was actually good with everyone. Suzie was an angel dog. In spite of her breeds (Rottie/GSD) she loved other dogs. People - it took her a few years with us, but she gradually lost her suspicion of people she didn't know, and became a people-lover. Nemo has always been shy, and because of his hip displaysia we didn't socialize him as much as we should have - so he is very reserved. If he knows you, he loves you. If he doesn't know you - you must be a little spooky. Magic - loved everyone. Everyone loved him. Part of all these things was personality - part of it was socialization. Do it.
8. Crate Training is Good
While I am not a fan of keeping dogs in their crates all day, except when they eat or exercise, or go potty, I also feel they have a place in training. During the first few days of being in a new place, they are good. I also think that our next dog may be more crated than our other dogs. Just because it's an easy way to transport them.
9. Pay Attention to What you feed your dogs.
We have always fed our dogs good food. We also don't give them people food. People food is not good for dogs. Toby and Tasha probably got the most people food of all our dogs. Suzie got some, but then when Nemo came along, we gave him very little, and Magic got only a few things, mainly cheese, because we give Nemo cheese in the morning for his glucosamine. Listen to your breeder. Pay attention to your dog. Some dogs need special food, some don't. More expensive is not always better.
10. A skinny dog is better than a fat dog.
Of course, this goes for people too. But we learned the hard way with Suzie. When she was 11 we had to put her on a strict diet, because she was too fat. Her hips started going, and she could barely get up and down. After she lost 35 lbs, she was a different dog. Getting up and down was easy. She became more lively again, and more playful. It gave her several more years of life. So, now we keep our dogs on the lean side. (If only we could do the same for ourselves...)
11. Always remember that 30 lb puppy is going to be a 160 lb. dog.
Since we have big dogs, especially we remember this. A cute little puppy jumping on your head is cute, maybe a little funny. A 160 lb. dog (or in Nemo's case, 200 lb. dog) could be life-threatening. A small dog can still be a pain in many places - a two pound puppy might be a 20 lb dog. So keep that in mind when you are playing.
12. Don't let your dog be the boss.
Don't let your dog get away with dominate behavior. Our dogs nearly always are required to sit before they are fed, before they are let out into the field for a supervised run, for pretty much any fun thing. Even if they con you into giving them treats, make them sit before you give it to them. If you let dogs on the furniture, bed or anywhere else, they have to yield to humans. Nemo's "safe spot" is the couch, but sometimes we make him get off for us. He pouts, but even though he sighs and whines, he knows that we are the boss. If your dog ever snaps at you, or anyone else, seek professional help. Obedience training is very important.
13. Don't put your dog a losing situation.
Don't put a shy dog into a room with 20 screaming kids. Don't put an aggressive dog into a dog park without a leash. Don't corner a fearful dog. Be smart about your dog. Don't leave a dog that isn't used to kids with children. Don't let a small kid walk a large dog unsupervised. Don't walk a cat-hating dog without a leash in a neighborhood with cats. Forcing the issue is just going to make it worse. Nemo is a very shy and timid dog. As long as he feels he can flee if things get too bad, he's okay. Suzie was very wary of people she didn't know. We were very careful about introducing her to people. Gradually she got over that. But we were always aware that with her looks, it was better to be safe. Use common sense. Most problems can be overcome with training, but don't put your dog into situations that he could fail.
14. Keep your dog fenced.
Dogs , unless they are in the middle of nowhere USA, should never be allowed to run free. It's dangerous for them, and dangerous for other people. Dogs as a pack may do things a single dog would never do. Get hit by cars. Get lost during storms. It's just a bad idea. A fenced yard is the best. Some people say dogs should not be allowed out unsupervised even in a fenced yard - I mostly disagree with this. We have a dog door, and it works great. Our dogs have a small run, but also a big field to run in (supervised, since it's not entirely fenced). But we would never allow our dogs out of our yard without a leash. It's just not smart. Dangerous for the dog. UNLESS your dog is trained in off-leash healing. But, even the most highly trained dog will be tempted by things. Cats, say. Or squirrels. Someone with a treat. A dog across the street he's friends with.
15. Sometimes it's kinder to let them go.
All of our dogs, except Nemo, had to be euthanized. We know his time will come someday. It's a hard choice, but don't keep your dog (or cat, or llama) alive for you. Of course, the hope is that you will wake up and they will have died peacefully in their sleep. (I hope this for all my pets, but it rarely happens....) Sometimes, like with Magic, it is a very hard decision. Sometimes, like with Suzie - who had mouth cancer, it's not as hard.
Even when you are prepared, it's still not easy. But as a caretaker, sometimes it's the kindest choice to make.
Friday, March 30, 2007
My hair
I don't have a good picture of my hair at the moment, but it is very cool. At the moment it needs a cut, and I am not going to get the color re-done for another month or so.
Naturally I have dark brown hair with grey in it. Many people think it's black, but it's not.
Right now it's red, with blond on the top, short - very short. I have gotten more positive comments about it that any other hair style or color I have ever had. I have known the woman who does it since she was a small kid. So, that's fun. (She is the daughter of one of my sister-in-law's best friends...does that make sense? No, but don't worry about it....)
Naturally I have dark brown hair with grey in it. Many people think it's black, but it's not.
Right now it's red, with blond on the top, short - very short. I have gotten more positive comments about it that any other hair style or color I have ever had. I have known the woman who does it since she was a small kid. So, that's fun. (She is the daughter of one of my sister-in-law's best friends...does that make sense? No, but don't worry about it....)
I like it a lot. It matches my Strat.
I just wonder what people mean when they say my hair matches my personality.
Fiery? Fake? Blond ?
I don't know. I don't really care, because I like it!
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Why Socks Are Bad
Our puppy Magic almost died. He's still not completely out of danger.
He ate a sock.
Yeah, I thought it was kind of funny, too. Except the almost dying part.
Magic is a 6 month old Saint Bernard puppy. 85 pounds, tall enough for me to pet with out leaning over. He loves everyone.
He has a mischievous spirit. When he's doing something bad, he gets this glint in his eye. It's playful, and he knows he's doing something he shouldn't, but he just can't help himself.
Actually, Magic ate 5 socks.
# 1 Fell out of the dryer while I was transferring clean clothes to the dresser in the bedroom to be folded. I saw him with it, and although I NEVER do trades, I held up a cookie. "Wanna Cookie?" I asked. Magic's second favorite words. (The first being, "Are you hungry?")
In stead of dropping the inedible sock for the yummy cookie, he swallowed the sock. That sock came, ah, out, just fine. I found it two days later.
#2 & #3 I have no idea where he got them. We have a lot of theories, the Saint and I. Maybe from the top of the dresser. Although I push the clothes back from the edge. Several months ago three nice shirts, and three crappy shirts and two pairs of underwear received some big holes because they were too close to the edge. They came through fine.
#4 got thrown up last Friday morning. Magic didn't eat. This was a big, big deal.
After him being lethargic and not eating, and puking, I called the Saint at work and said, "He needs to go to the vet now."
Our vet took x-rays. He saw something, but couldn't tell what it was. Said if Magic started throwing up again to bring him back, they were there until 6. We went home. Magic not feeling good. Two hours later he started getting sick again. We rushed him to the emergency vet. They said, "I think there's a sock in there." CRAP.
They tried to re-hydrate and hoped it would move along on it's own. It didn't. So at 4:30 am they called us and told us they were going to operate. They do this all the time at this practice. They felt it would be routine, so they neutered him, and stapled his stomach so he won't torsion.
Since he is a lighting-fast eater, was due to be neutered, and they would already be mucking around in there we told them to go for it.
Magic came through the surgery fine. Sock removed, only a small incision in the intestine. A huge one along his poor tummy, though. Neutered. The vet said only a couple more inches and the sock would have been on his way. All was well. He should be fine.
But he wasn't fine. He still wouldn't eat. He was listless, draggy, dopey. We went and saw him after work on Saturday, and he was not our bouncy Magic. We were worried. Then the vet called us Sunday morning and asked us to come in, to see if we could get him to eat. No luck. Sunday night we went back, and the vet was concerned about some white blood cells. No apparent infection. But he was still not eating. Running from both ends.
Monday, the radiologist took an ultrasound, and they gave us a choice. Things in there might be dicey. The could give him 5 days or so to see if he pulled out of it, or go back in for a look around, to make sure everything was fine. He had perked up, but still wasn't eating. The second time in ended up with the surgeon finding adhesions all through his intestines, removing a foot of the intestine where the sock had been. His chances were not great. He came through the surgery okay, but with the infection, resection, and it being the second surgery - it was not looking very promising. The surgery had taken three hours. On a positive note - his vital signs had stayed stable the whole time.
After getting the news I cried all night long. The Saint had to take Nemo with him when he went to get dinner because I was freaking him out.
Tuesday morning I was afraid to call and find out what was happening with my poor dog. I couldn't bear any more bad news. The vet tech came on and said, "He's eating like crazy."
From there the news got better. He perked up. Kept eating. No throwing up. We went to see him Tuesday, and he was a new dog. Still groggy from the surgery, but much perkier than the same time after his first surgery.
Wednesday morning the vet said if he kept improving he could go home. He was perky. They said he was a wiggle worm who kept trying to lick them.
When we went to get him he was back to Magic. Loving everyone, and ready to go home. When we got there he promptly stole three pieces of forbidden kibble. He's on a high nutrition soft food for now, and more pills than the Saint and me put together. But - he's looking good.
If he makes it to Saturday night without throwing up, having the runs, or not eating he should be okay.
You might be thinking to yourselves, do they just strew socks around? No.
Pretty much everything in our house is puppy proofed. We don't leave tempting stuff laying around where he has access. Shoes are put away when they are taken off. Clothes go in the hamper. Small tempting items are put on higher counters. Doors are kept shut to those really fine places like...bathrooms and the back bedrooms.
We also train him NOT to chew up our stuff, take away the bad thing, "MINE!" and give him a toy. However, he is a puppy. Like a kid, everything goes in his mouth. If it tastes not bad, he eats it. We watch him closely, and we try to keep things that will hurt him in safe places, but we can't watch him every second.
Is there a moral to this story? Not really. Puppies will be puppies.
PS - 3/30/07 Magic is fine now. Socks are on lock down though. He had to take three weeks of antibiotics, and be on special food when he first came home. I took three days off to make sure things didn't go bad. It was very scary. Does he still eat things he shouldn't? Yes. Two weeks after he came home he ate the handle off his new toy box. And the phone line. But he's fine. Hopefully he's at the end of this stage of puppyhood!
He ate a sock.
Yeah, I thought it was kind of funny, too. Except the almost dying part.
Magic is a 6 month old Saint Bernard puppy. 85 pounds, tall enough for me to pet with out leaning over. He loves everyone.
He has a mischievous spirit. When he's doing something bad, he gets this glint in his eye. It's playful, and he knows he's doing something he shouldn't, but he just can't help himself.
Actually, Magic ate 5 socks.
# 1 Fell out of the dryer while I was transferring clean clothes to the dresser in the bedroom to be folded. I saw him with it, and although I NEVER do trades, I held up a cookie. "Wanna Cookie?" I asked. Magic's second favorite words. (The first being, "Are you hungry?")
In stead of dropping the inedible sock for the yummy cookie, he swallowed the sock. That sock came, ah, out, just fine. I found it two days later.
#2 & #3 I have no idea where he got them. We have a lot of theories, the Saint and I. Maybe from the top of the dresser. Although I push the clothes back from the edge. Several months ago three nice shirts, and three crappy shirts and two pairs of underwear received some big holes because they were too close to the edge. They came through fine.
#4 got thrown up last Friday morning. Magic didn't eat. This was a big, big deal.
After him being lethargic and not eating, and puking, I called the Saint at work and said, "He needs to go to the vet now."
Our vet took x-rays. He saw something, but couldn't tell what it was. Said if Magic started throwing up again to bring him back, they were there until 6. We went home. Magic not feeling good. Two hours later he started getting sick again. We rushed him to the emergency vet. They said, "I think there's a sock in there." CRAP.
They tried to re-hydrate and hoped it would move along on it's own. It didn't. So at 4:30 am they called us and told us they were going to operate. They do this all the time at this practice. They felt it would be routine, so they neutered him, and stapled his stomach so he won't torsion.
Since he is a lighting-fast eater, was due to be neutered, and they would already be mucking around in there we told them to go for it.
Magic came through the surgery fine. Sock removed, only a small incision in the intestine. A huge one along his poor tummy, though. Neutered. The vet said only a couple more inches and the sock would have been on his way. All was well. He should be fine.
But he wasn't fine. He still wouldn't eat. He was listless, draggy, dopey. We went and saw him after work on Saturday, and he was not our bouncy Magic. We were worried. Then the vet called us Sunday morning and asked us to come in, to see if we could get him to eat. No luck. Sunday night we went back, and the vet was concerned about some white blood cells. No apparent infection. But he was still not eating. Running from both ends.
Monday, the radiologist took an ultrasound, and they gave us a choice. Things in there might be dicey. The could give him 5 days or so to see if he pulled out of it, or go back in for a look around, to make sure everything was fine. He had perked up, but still wasn't eating. The second time in ended up with the surgeon finding adhesions all through his intestines, removing a foot of the intestine where the sock had been. His chances were not great. He came through the surgery okay, but with the infection, resection, and it being the second surgery - it was not looking very promising. The surgery had taken three hours. On a positive note - his vital signs had stayed stable the whole time.
After getting the news I cried all night long. The Saint had to take Nemo with him when he went to get dinner because I was freaking him out.
Tuesday morning I was afraid to call and find out what was happening with my poor dog. I couldn't bear any more bad news. The vet tech came on and said, "He's eating like crazy."
From there the news got better. He perked up. Kept eating. No throwing up. We went to see him Tuesday, and he was a new dog. Still groggy from the surgery, but much perkier than the same time after his first surgery.
Wednesday morning the vet said if he kept improving he could go home. He was perky. They said he was a wiggle worm who kept trying to lick them.
When we went to get him he was back to Magic. Loving everyone, and ready to go home. When we got there he promptly stole three pieces of forbidden kibble. He's on a high nutrition soft food for now, and more pills than the Saint and me put together. But - he's looking good.
If he makes it to Saturday night without throwing up, having the runs, or not eating he should be okay.
You might be thinking to yourselves, do they just strew socks around? No.
Pretty much everything in our house is puppy proofed. We don't leave tempting stuff laying around where he has access. Shoes are put away when they are taken off. Clothes go in the hamper. Small tempting items are put on higher counters. Doors are kept shut to those really fine places like...bathrooms and the back bedrooms.
We also train him NOT to chew up our stuff, take away the bad thing, "MINE!" and give him a toy. However, he is a puppy. Like a kid, everything goes in his mouth. If it tastes not bad, he eats it. We watch him closely, and we try to keep things that will hurt him in safe places, but we can't watch him every second.
Is there a moral to this story? Not really. Puppies will be puppies.
PS - 3/30/07 Magic is fine now. Socks are on lock down though. He had to take three weeks of antibiotics, and be on special food when he first came home. I took three days off to make sure things didn't go bad. It was very scary. Does he still eat things he shouldn't? Yes. Two weeks after he came home he ate the handle off his new toy box. And the phone line. But he's fine. Hopefully he's at the end of this stage of puppyhood!
Friday, March 02, 2007
Marching Ahead
February went by in a flash - and I barely even touched my blogs.
My poor little Magic isn't feeling too well today. He ate another sock - he threw this one up. But he still wasn't eating so we took him to the vet this morning. They took X-Rays. They think he will be fine, but he still isn't eating (SO unlike him) and he's not feeling very good.
He's such a good boy, and I feel bad. At least we know where he's stealing the socks from now, (off the bedroom dresser - which is high!) so we can keep them away from him.
I'm hoping he will be feeling better soon. Poor little guy.
My poor little Magic isn't feeling too well today. He ate another sock - he threw this one up. But he still wasn't eating so we took him to the vet this morning. They took X-Rays. They think he will be fine, but he still isn't eating (SO unlike him) and he's not feeling very good.
He's such a good boy, and I feel bad. At least we know where he's stealing the socks from now, (off the bedroom dresser - which is high!) so we can keep them away from him.
I'm hoping he will be feeling better soon. Poor little guy.
Sunday, January 28, 2007
A Message from our Sponsors or Next Year During the Holidays...
Actually, there are no sponsors, just me.
It's been a while since I updated any of my blogs - the fall kind of got away from me, and then came the holidays.
So, since the holidays are now a year away, I can say - I am doing it different next year.
First of all, I am going to start buying gifts in the next month or so. Or at least, compiling gift lists.
By December 1st, I want to be ready to roll - wrapped, tagged, bowed. So we might possibly put up the tree - depending on Magic's state of maturity by then. He's the sweetest little 70 lb puppy you could ever meet!
I do plan on finishing the saga of our vacation to Alaska, with pictures, because it was very cool. Maybe this coming month - February is so dreary, it will be good to have a fun project to look forward to - and something to make me take a break from World of Warcraft.
It's been a while since I updated any of my blogs - the fall kind of got away from me, and then came the holidays.
So, since the holidays are now a year away, I can say - I am doing it different next year.
First of all, I am going to start buying gifts in the next month or so. Or at least, compiling gift lists.
By December 1st, I want to be ready to roll - wrapped, tagged, bowed. So we might possibly put up the tree - depending on Magic's state of maturity by then. He's the sweetest little 70 lb puppy you could ever meet!
I do plan on finishing the saga of our vacation to Alaska, with pictures, because it was very cool. Maybe this coming month - February is so dreary, it will be good to have a fun project to look forward to - and something to make me take a break from World of Warcraft.
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