I decided against...

I decided against doing all of my nails with different patterns just for the sake of posting my patterns. I posted the first 10 already, so now I think I'll just use one each for the next 32. That way, I have to challenge myself to come up with a way to use the rest of them that looks nice. Or in this case, is inspired by something. When I saw this pattern, it made me think of something familiar. What do you think?

https://www.facebook.com/SarahCavenderMetalworks/photos/a.10150591554628079/10150591560988079/

I'm not into the whole New Year's BS.

I'm not into the whole New Year's BS.  I don't party over it, and I don't make resolutions and pretend that a different number on the calendar affects whether I will stick to them or not.  Every day is a new day, and that's just how I roll.  In any case, all of you out celebrating, please be safe.  One of Shadow's friends lost his dad to drunk driving.  It happens, but it doesn't have to.  ❤

So I was bringing in my dogs...

So I was bringing in my dogs and noticed Faith was missing.  She's usually right up under me.  I went and opened the door, and she was trying her hardest to climb a tree!  Running leaps and scrambling once she makes contact - she ended up going higher than my head.  I saw a squirrel tail sticking out of a hole in the tree.  I imagine that's who she was after.  Had to bring her in and let him have some peace.  😂😂😂

Got home to lovely...

Got home to lovely, delicious red velvet cupcakes, and plastic NON-DISPOSABLE forks.  Janet really knows how to make my day.  😃  Girl, you might as well marry me now 'cause I love you forever!  ❤  (She totally loves me despite my aversion to spoons and metal utensils.  And we share a love for red velvet.  We're a match made in heaven!)  😃  Can't wait to see you Sunday!  😃

Aaand, the cops are across the street.

Aaand, the cops are across the street.  Yelling and chasing with lights flashing.  Ghetto life is so exciting.  🙁

Let's try this "get some sleep" thing once more, shall we?

Stamped my nails again.

Stamped my nails again.  This time they are all purples, but I used 10 more of my images.  I did these at Shaun's house (in his dark man cave) so some of them aren't great, but you can tell what they are.  Might post pictures tomorrow.  I've got two or three new favorite patterns so far!  😃  And on that note - I'm off to sleep.  Gonna snuggle the kitties again.  ❤

Loving my new boy, Balthazar, but...

Loving my new boy, Balthazar, but dang - I can't tell you how many times I've kicked him and nearly fallen over him.  🙁  I'm not used to the kitties that stay right up under your feet!  Either he loves me, or he wants me to fall down!  😂

'Bout to go get my hairs trimmed and my nails did.

'Bout to go get my hairs trimmed and my nails did.  Between me and Shaun, I'mma be SUPER-FLY!  ❤

Going to bed.

Going to bed.  Probably sleeping on the couch.  I want to snuggle with the kitties!  ❤

Hazel (former foster Olive) at work. 😉

Hazel (former foster Olive) at work.  😉

Well... much to my own surprise...

Well... much to my own surprise I have a new cat.  His name is Balthazar and he looks and acts just like Shaun's baby, Bastian.  We are now are 3 for 3 on matching cats.  Weird.

I just laughed SO HARD.

I just laughed SO HARD.  Faith was butt-herding Tasha and it was hilarious.  I've never seen a dog do such a thing.  Wow.  😃  I'm gonna have to catch that one on video.

Anyone out there have a soft spot for the Chinese Crested breed of dog?

Anyone out there have a soft spot for the Chinese Crested breed of dog?  I've been contacted and we've got a senior girl named Gypsy being bounced around.  🙁  From what I understand she's in pretty good health - just missing some teeth and has a bit of skin irritation on her neck.  I have always wanted one of these gangly looking little dogs, but now is not the time.

I hear that she is good with other dogs if they are not too hyper and are respectful of her space.  I have a feeling she would be happier with another senior or a really mellow companion, if not just her human.  These are the dogs with only a little bit of hair, so she would need to be kept indoors to avoid being cold or getting sunburn.  Please let me know if anyone might want her!

Tash is home and resting.

Tash is home and resting.  Stitches are out, healing nicely.  Dr. Epperson was pleased with how well she's getting around.  Needs more pain management for now.  Aside from the other bad hip (stopped her Kinetic shot before surgery), she's probably still really sore from surgery.  She's been crying when she stands up since she finished her meds.  So, more meds for the next three weeks, weaning her off.  Will see about starting the shot again after that since we don't need to rush into the second surgery.  Stopped and got her a steak biscuit on the way home to hide her pill in.  She was into that!  No wonder she never wants to get out of the car at home.  😂  She has too much fun when we're out!  😛

Anyone like pecans?

Anyone like pecans?  I didn't think I'd have any this year, but it's apparent now that they were just late.  I can't even walk to my car without nearly twisting an ankle on one!

Ok, the main reason I wanted this plate was the puzzle piece image.

Ok, the main reason I wanted this plate was the puzzle piece image.  But I'm really digging, well, most of these, honestly.  It was hard to pick my favorite 10!  Anyway, I am not taking these off today or probably even tomorrow.  I'm having too much fun just looking at them!  Who wants their nails done?  I'm not done playing with my new toy!  I'm off today and tomorrow!  😃

Left hand.

Left hand.  Just trying everything because I was too excited to pick one thing and go with it.  😃  Learned a lot about what polishes I can stamp with (or not!)  Ring and pointer fingers are my favorite, pinky is ok.  Thumb is looking rough, but that was a sheer polish over glitter, so... whatever.  LOL

OMG y'all

OMG y'all - my nails are rocking my face off right now.  Shaun gave me a new stamper... the Konad one was such a bitch to use and I couldn't get it to always pick up the images.  It only worked sometimes no matter what I did, so I quit using it.  But this new one is nothing short of AWESOME.  AND, he gave me a new image plate with over 40 patterns.  I will be posting photos shortly!  😃 😃 😃

Holy cow.

Holy cow. We decided to not wait until Christmas morning to open our gifts to each other.  I gave Shadow a 3DS, and he was speechless.  Shaun gave Shadow a few things he'd heard him talk about, so Shadow was totally thrilled with all of it.  Shaun gave me several awesome things that I wanted / needed, and I've never felt so spoiled.  🙂  Shaun got... a game that he bought for himself.  🙁  I ordered his present several weeks ago, but it didn't arrive in time.  He doesn't seem to mind.  He enjoyed seeing us happy, but it still bums me out a bit.  I guess he will be getting a New Year's gift instead.  😐

Christmas Tree nails!

Christmas Tree nails! I've tried this several times now, and this is the best it's come out. I think it's pretty cute, though. 🙂

Well, I've adopted myself a dog for Christmas.

Well, I've adopted myself a dog for Christmas. Or I've given Lowrider the gift of a forever home.  Either way you want to look at it, Lowrider isn't going anywhere!  ❤ you, shawty.  🙂

Update on Tasha (Nappy):

Update on Tasha (Nappy):  She's getting around pretty great, I think.  Still has to stop and rest a bit, but that's not bad.  I think she got spoiled from all of her pampering - she would really prefer that her food and water be delivered to the couch on demand.  LOL  Done with antibiotics and pain meds.  We're going in on Monday to get her stitches out and to decide if we need to keep up with the joint shots or not.  All this time having her by herself and being still, I've got her all combed out and nice... on one side.  The other side that she sleeps on needs some work, though.  LOL

Well, looks like I've pissed my mother off just in time for Christmas.

Well, looks like I've pissed my mother off just in time for Christmas.

She actually just called me, told me about a situation, and then hung up on me because I didn't agree with her. I wish she could just see what's important regarding my niece.  The child is taken care of, my brother isn't trying to take her back, and everyone is ok - except for her. The family that has my niece extended an invitation for the holidays, and of course mom can't accept it graciously. She has to "finish" a conversation in a rude and hurtful way, thus isolating herself more. Sorry, mom, but if you did that to me every time we spoke, I wouldn't want you around, either. Accept the situation and get to be part of your granddaughter's life, or don't. Oh, and please realize that you probably don't know the whole truth, either. All any of us know is what we saw, and you weren't even there for that part of it. All you got is hear-say. I'm sorry.

Our Halloween pumpkin...

Our Halloween pumpkin that never quite graduated into a Jack-O-Lantern.  Thanks to Mary Beth he still has a purpose!  ❤

Happy Solstice and stuff.

Happy Solstice and stuff. Shaun is forcing me to go have fun now. ❤

Praise be to Jesus!

Praise be to Jesus!

Ok, Saks, keep an eye out..

Ok, Saks, keep an eye out for someone looking for a place to hide.  The Salvation Army was just robbed and some skinny motherfucker was in my yard looking for a place to go.  (Cops said that was most likely who that was.  It's not like I have anything to take).  

I hate this neighborhood.

NOW... I need to chill the hell out and try to get some sleep.

I just bribed Shaun to come over here with cookies!

😃😃😃  I just bribed Shaun to come over here with cookies!  I'm gonna be so happy to see his face!  ❤❤❤

I think my Nappy girl...

I think my Nappy girl is doing well enough that she can handle herself while I'm at work tomorrow.  I will just crate Emma to make sure there are no incidents while I'm gone.  Those two have been doing great since Nappy has been on shots for her joints so I'm hoping that the previous altercations had something to do with Nappy feeling bad.

I think that they will do great together again, but Em's a little jealous of Nappy's special treatment right now.  However, I remember spending the night last Christmas Eve in the living room floor with Emma because she wasn't feeling well.  Too bad she doesn't remember!  There are none of them that I wouldn't go out of my way to take care of.  I hope it's a great long while before they all get to know that, though!

Well, I am a little sore this morning.

Well, I am a little sore this morning.

I've been making Tasha sleep in the floor at night because she moves around trying to make circles and I'm afraid that she'll fall off the couch and hurt herself.  During the day when I can watch her, though, I've let her have the couch.  Well, she woke me up about 7 this morning and didn't want anything that I offered her.  She then went to an empty spot on the couch (near my feet because I can't take the whole thing up 😂) and started getting up there.  I just let her.

Before I knew it I was in the way of her getting comfortable, so I ended up on her pallet in the floor while she stretched out on the couch.  I'm beginning to think someone is milking her surgery for all the special treatment she can get!

Just looked in the mirror...

Just looked in the mirror... my black eye is turning all sorts of colors and moving to the crease of my eyelid.  It's starting to look like a fancy make-up job!  😂😂😂

This morning...

This morning Nappy is eating pretty well, and getting up a lot more on her own, and with less trouble.  I woke up to a big slobbery face in my face - she got up to tell me she was thirsty!  That's a first!  Seems like she is on the right track!  I am so happy!

Woohoo!

Woohoo!  Nappy just got up in a hurry and made way to the door.  I opened it and let her out, and she peed!  I think we BOTH feel much better now!  😃

Ok, just talked to Dr. Epperson.

Ok, just talked to Dr. Epperson.  She said that Tash is probably fine - might be a little dehydrated, so keep the fluids coming.  We're both sure it hurts to squat right now anyway, so if she hasn't peed by tomorrow night, we'll have her checked out again.  I feel better!

Ok, home with Tash still.

Ok, home with Tash still. She can get around a little bit, even better with help. She got off the couch and pooped a little earlier, but hasn't peed in over 24 hours, despite drinking plenty.  I'm getting pretty worried.  Feel like expressing her bladder isn't the answer - if something is wrong, that doesn't exactly fix it.  Any suggestions?

I've slept off and on since about 10...

I've slept off and on since about 10, and so has Tasha.  She hasn't peed since about 6 pm yesterday, but she's been drinking.  I'm sure she has to go, but she could barely hold a squat yesterday so I think she's just holding it.  She's grunting and crying right now, and I can't tell what she wants to do.  She weighs almost as much as me so I can't just pick her up.  Not sure what to do.  🙁

Tash is home and doing ok.

Tash is home and doing ok.  It is going to be a looong weekend, though.  I couldn't get her out of the car by myself and she can barely stand from sitting or lying down.  She just needs a little help with the back end.  When she walks, she does put some pressure on that back leg, but she hobbles around so I feel like it still hurts.  🙁

After I gave her some pain meds, she napped.  But she's mostly restless and uncomfortable, maybe in outright pain still.  I feel terrible for her.  I also had her ears plucked while she was under so she's shaking her head a lot, but I guess that's keeping her from being able to chew at her stitches, so...

Anyway, I'm sleeping on the couch in the room with her tonight... who knows, maybe all weekend.  She's eating and drinking (as long as I bring it right to her 😂) so that's much better than how things went with her spay.  She wouldn't even eat or drink when I offered food or water to her after that.

So far, it looks like I'm sticking close to home this weekend, but that's ok with me because I want to be here for my girl. ❤ So if you need me, you know where to find me!

Nappy after her first hip surgery.  She is not a happy camper right now, but I think the couch service will make it a little better.  I hope!

I called and checked on Nappy...

I called and checked on Nappy; she seems to be doing fine.  I'll know when I can bring her home after 10:30.  So, I guess I'm gonna head to work and check back later.

Well... I don't know anything specific...

Well... I don't know anything specific about how things went with my Nappy girl today.  🙁  I called the vet a couple of times and they were only just prepping her for surgery around 4:00.  They said that they would not be done until after hours and that if I didn't hear from them, that was good news.  I haven't heard anything yet, so... I'm guessing she's ok.  I'd really feel better if I could hear it, though.  I am not mad - the vet's office was slammed today - even early this morning, and they said that an Alpaca needing a blood transfusion came in and held them up even more.  I totally understand, but I'm gonna be on edge until I talk to them in the morning.  So... this is what it is.  😐

Well, I'm heading out with Nappy.

Well, I'm heading out with Nappy. I don't know if I'm ready! 🙁 I'm so nervous!

First fancy nails I've done in a while.

First fancy nails I've done in a while. Can't tell because the snowflake one is iridescent, but it actually matches the polish pretty well. 🙂 I'm tired and have a hard day tomorrow, so I'll deal with the edge clean-up later. ❤

Off to eat dinner and wash Nappy...

Off to eat dinner and wash Nappy up so she's all clean for tomorrow.  Big day - my baby girl is having surgery!  This is the first time any of my animals have had any procedure done other than a spay or neuter.  I am having feelings about it.  😐

Little black eye, thankyouverymuch, Faith.

Little black eye, thankyouverymuch, Faith.

I am feeling drained and sad.

I am feeling drained and sad.  I think I am just gonna go to bed early.  I need to do my nails (which is more like a chore when I don't feel up to it), do something with Oogy's tank, and wash Nappy in preparation for surgery.  Maybe if I get some rest I'll feel up to dealing with all of that tomorrow.  I just don't have it in me today.  🙁

I am sad.

I am sad - Oogy is dead.  🙁  I don't know what I did wrong, but I guess she was better off in her tiny tank.  ❤ my little roomie.  🙁

Shadow's concert was great.

Shadow's concert was great.  I really enjoyed watching him play. He wasn't as mechanical as some of the other kids - he would close his eyes and feel the music.  💜💜💜 that! There was this one senior kid on snare - OMFG - the little dude rocked my face off. Looking forward to more concerts!  😃

OUCH!

OUCH!  I was bent over filling the water bowls for the doggies and Faith jumped skull-first into my eyebrow area.  No shit - I felt my brain jar.  It knocked my glasses off my face and now I have a large lump forming right under my left eyebrow.  I bet it's gonna turn colors.  😂  And as bad as it hurt, I'm sure it hurt her, too.  I couldn't even be mad.  I might have to post a picture of it later.  😳

To anyone who feels like coming:

To anyone who feels like coming:  Shadow will be in a band concert at the First Baptist Church of Saks on Saks Road tomorrow at 6:30.  It's free - they just ask for donations.

To all of my friends who have heard about the horrible shelter abuse:

TRIGGER WARNING:  Animal Abuse
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To all of my friends who have heard about the horrible shelter abuse, please be aware that I know about it (and don't need reminding of the torture that has been inflicted upon those poor souls).  More importantly, I would like to point out that it is NOT the shelter I have volunteered for.  They would NEVER treat an animal inhumanely.  I know many of the workers personally and they all stretch and give more than their job duties call for.  Their hearts are in their work and it shows.  Please do not confuse them with the House of Horrors on Morrisville Road.

Hell yes!

Hell yes!  You CAN NOT beat $20 to fix a female cat!  If you have an unfixed female - DO THIS!

My friend Amanda took this photo of me...

One of Shadow's friends posted this gem:

One of Shadow's friends posted this gem:

I feel...

I feel... like I have an octopus inside me.  A very smart one.  And she is a girl.  Her name is Isabella.

She is also light purple, but most definitely NOT lavender.

When I am slow to respond or make a weird face it is because she is still learning the controls.

This, my friends, is what happens when I try to meditate. I just chill, concentrate on my breath, try to think of nothing, and then my brain apparently freaks out. I don't know. 😂

Aww!

Aww - Oogy is sleeping by her heater! She LIKES it! 😃

I've been sitting on this for months, but...

I've been sitting on this for months, but I've decided I'm gonna be a friend and share it.  Pooh (Shadow's father) made a music video.  He's got some songs around the web, too, but he sounds much different in those (more like his usual self - he's mustering up some country boy for this one.  😂)

Anyone knowing about fish (bettas in particular) up?

Anyone knowing about fish (bettas in particular) up?  I have some questions.  Can't decide what I'm gonna do!

Just a thought...

Just a thought - (one I wish I'd had much sooner) - if you like animals, please buy products that don't test on them.  If I pick something up and see that they do not test, that always makes me happy.  I never actually thought to specifically look for that before now, but I definitely will.  Here is a site that can help you find out which companies are cruelty-free.  (And yeah, I know it's PETA, who can be really out there, but I do trust their list).

https://crueltyfree.peta.org/

Lots of inter-species love happening tonight.

Lots of inter-species love happening tonight - Midna was so happy to see Booka's little stinky butt that she pulled his hair and then rolled on the floor from... I don't know, joy?  Snaga is, by her own choice, hanging out with Niq, the lone g-pig.  I love it when everyone gets along so great.  🙂  And on that happy, sweet note, I'm taking myself to bed.  Goodnight, all!

OMG

OMG - just busted in on Shadow playing in his room to tell him to get ready for bed. He's in the floor with toys all around him - totally normal, right? Well, he's got his mouth gagged with a black strap tied around his head.

I tried asking him what the hell he was doing, but OBVIOUSLY, his mouth was gagged so he couldn't say. 😂😂😂

I don't even want to know what kind of kinky shit I'm going to catch him doing in a few years.  😳 Wow.

To my dearest Shaun:

To my dearest Shaun:  If you order anything else from Think Geek before Christmas, I will kill you.  Out of love, of course.  Save something for me to buy you!  😳

Got home and had to clean up doggie messes.

Got home and had to clean up doggie messes. Spoiled mutts don't wanna get their feet wet. Funny thing, though - when I'm cleaning up I tend to push the dogs away with my butt while I'm bent over and using my hands to clean so that they don't step in the mess. Most of them won't, but I've got one in particular who will. Anyway, while I was butt-deflecting Nappy, I looked over to see Faith backing up to her and pushing as well. She was also looking at me with big brown eyes, like, "This is how we do it, right?" Faith is still the goofiest dog I've ever met, but maybe she's smarter than I thought. 😂😂😂

This weekend:

This weekend:  I bought a box of owls for $4, sunburned my face, went to my cousin's baby shower, spilled half a gallon of punch in the back of my car, slept only 2 hours one night, and took my temp foster pup to his new foster mom.  I guess it's been like, 50/50 good and not good.  It definitely could have been worse!  I am so exhausted, though.  Gonna make some easy dinner and call it a night.  😳

1) It's Friday.

1)  It's Friday.

2)  My super-cool BigRuby nail tattoos came in the mail today. 😃

3)  Went to Walgreens, spent a whopping $3.38 and got 2 super-sparkly nail polishes, 120 nail stickers, and bottle of lotion for my purse.  Coupons RULE!

4)  Got a wonderfully-timed reimbursement on a former foster, so with that + the saving I've been doing I've got all the money for Nappy's surgery in hand.  Phew!

I am having a good day!  😃😃😃  I hope you are, too!  ❤

Well, I took Nappy to the vet today.

Well, I took Nappy to the vet today.  Gotta say:  I LOVE Dr. Epperson.  Anyway, Nappy's all set to have her surgery done.  It is scheduled for the 12th of December.

Typing with one hand because...

Typing with one hand because I can't let go of this dog toy.  If I do, I'll have to play the "seek" to find it.  (Crooked-ears Jo), aka Jojo might have been more aptly named "Chomp" or "Ferret" - this little guy has a lot of distinguishing qualities.  He's totally cute and sweet and good, but a puppy, which nonetheless = lots of work.  😳

Temporary foster pup Jojo.

Temporary foster pup Jojo.  He's funny - very well-behaved for only 14 weeks old.  Will let you know when he needs to go out, and listens when you correct him with your voice.  Odd, though - he's REALLY into hiding his things and re-arranging my bedroom.  When he's out playing, he's either hiding things or moving things.  He's cracking me up!

Well, there is a puppy under my bed in a box.

Well, there is a puppy under my bed in a box.  I've run out of space, so that is where I store them now.  😳

Just kidding.  This is a little dude who was dumped in Dawn's neighborhood. He's about 14 weeks old, black and white little bull baby. He's totally sweet and responsive if you correct him with your voice, but he's assertive with the other dogs - if they bark, he barks back, unlike most puppies I've ever had here. 

He's separated - I'm sharing my room with him for now. I've emailed Melissa about him, so hopefully we can find him a home soon. If not, Dawn will see about finding him another foster home once he's clear of worms and done with meds. I'm hoping to do Nappy's surgery within the next few weeks, so I don't need two babies in the house!

And he's been playing hide and seek with his toys - that is why he was in a box under my bed. Babies are funny! 😃

Shaun's new baby is such a cool little guy!

HOME:  It's where my mutts are, and there is no place like it.  However, riding in the car with Bastian was super-fun.  I've never seen a cat just lay back and chill for a car ride!  Shaun's new baby is such a cool little guy!

Me and former foster Dahlia...

ADOPTED - Me and former foster Dahlia during one of my recent visits. She's one of two that have been adopted locally that I get to visit. I just love this goofy girl. She's always SO happy and smiling. This photo makes my chest feel happy - it's always so good to see her and give her big hugs!

Me and Dahlia  🙂  Smiles all around - I just love her!  Thank you to her wonderful mommy, Mary Crabtree, for letting me see her.  I enjoy our visits so!

You know, yesterday...

You know, yesterday, I did not list anything serious that I was thankful for, but I do have quite an extensive list.  Aside from the obvious (my family, fur-kids included), there are the people that I have come to think of as my extended family- those who have adopted my foster fur-kids over the years.  Not everyone is on the Internet to see this, so I will only list the ones who are.

To Joe Costa, Ryan Daigle, Jeff Kinney, Mary Crabtree, Mary Beth Meacham, Jennifer Platt Hopkins, and Leah Lawrence Conley - I am thankful for you for opening your hearts to rescue dogs and giving them such wonderful lives.  You all really rock my face off.  😃  And to all of the rescue friends I've made who have helped me along the way, I am thankful for you, too!  I couldn't have done it without you.  There is just not enough space to list everyone and everything that I am thankful for - so I guess that means I've got it pretty good!  😃💗💗💗

HOLY COW.

HOLY COW. Never expected so many birthday wishes.  I guess they worked - today was great!  😃

Shaun got me a backpack that I really wanted... it totally complements my Raphael boggin'.  😃😃😃  I saw a blue heron on my way to Shaun's parents' house and that was really cool - I'd never seen one in person before.  THEN, he stopped and let me pick a piece of cotton from a field - I ran gleefully into someone's field, stole a piece of cotton, and ran giggling back.  It was the BEST EVER!  AND THEN, his dad gave me a snake skin, which I am totally going to use on my nails.

Got to eat a bunch of Mom's home cooking, so that was great.  Speaking of nails, I placed my first BigRuby order today.  Not to mention the family members who slipped me some money and the weather being so nice.  Today was the exact opposite of last year - anyone remember that?  😂  Thanks to everyone who helped make my day special!  ❤

Oh, and I need not forget that Shadow snuck around all ninja-like in Wal-Mart last night - WHILE I WAS THERE - and bought me some Bubble-Yum scented nail polishes without me even knowing it. Jajuan, you would have been proud. 😃

Me in my scary hat, with my ill-begotten cotton that I picked by myself on my 29th birthday. 😃

I don't feel bad.

I don't feel bad.  That being said, I am having a pain in the lower right side of my abdomen that is, well, painful.  It fades in, holds at a pretty bad hurt, and then fades out for a while.  I've Googled it, but have come up with nothing so far.  I hope it's nothing serious!

Janet brought me cake at work today.

Janet brought me cake at work today.  I just finished it - all by myself.  Having my cake and eating it, too:  CHALLENGE ACCEPTED!  😛

These are my birthday nails...

These are my birthday nails (a few days early) - orange-y for my topaz birthstone, and an owl because I like them. Notice that while my nails might not be the most beautiful things ever, they are not mangled from torture, nor have I ever been waterboarded to within an inch of my life. I do have offspring, but I wasn't forced to have him (and many others) while living in cramped quarters, unable to move away from my own waste, only to have him taken from me and sold to who knows who for someone else's gain. When you look at things like that, your life is probably pretty good. Just try to remember that not everyone else is so lucky. Perhaps you can even help. ❤

Heard this at McAlister's Deli where we went to lunch today...

Heard this at McAlister's Deli where we went to lunch today... Shaun used his fancy phone to find out who it was.  I've heard this song a million times and I really like it, but never knew before who it was.  And how apropos for today!  (The chorus, anyway.)  😛

Robbie Nevil - C'est La Vie

Today was definitely Monday, but not a horrible one.

Today was definitely Monday, but not a horrible one.  Shadow was sick and stayed home from school, and my car wouldn't crank.  By the time Shaun and I made it to Oxford we'd missed breakfast at Hardee's, which was a bummer because I REALLY wanted a cheese biscuit.  The rest of the day was ok, but I got home and started to show Shaun what was up with my car and it make a fool of me and cranked.  Not sure what to make of that, but I guess it's better than it not cranking.  Not sure if I trust it enough to drive it right now, though...

Ok...

Ok, it is SO beyond bed time.  I just microwaved foil.  I don't need to be left alone when sleepy.  @_@

Beginners luck...

Beginners luck - made 10 bucks playing poker tonight.  😃  Met some pretty cool new friends, too.  Thanks for having us over, Mary Beth!  ❤

Helped a friend in her yard...

Helped a friend in her yard, learned that I'm not all that scared to be on a roof, and made a little money - all while Emma had a play date with her buddy Kyle!  Been a good day so far!  (But I'm gonna be sore as hell tomorrow!)  ❤ you, Carla.  Today was fun.  😃

Today wasn't bad, but...

Today wasn't bad, but I'm tired and ready for bed.  So, I'm off to tuck the pooches in and call it a night.  Oh, and the highlight of my day:  I got a FANCY new stapler at work.  It's a Swingline!  😃😃😃❤

Rest in Peace, Streak.

Rest in Peace, Streak. You will be missed. ❤

It does suck, but I think he might have just died of old age. That makes me feel better than to think he might have been suffering an illness.

I think I have a sick g-pig. 🙁

I think I have a sick g-pig.  🙁  I just cleaned his cage and he didn't run away from me as he usually does.  When I picked him up he felt thin.  And he refused to eat an orange.  NOT GOOD.  Calling the vet in the morning.  I hope he will be ok.  ❤

I had no idea

I had no idea you could wear a scarf so many ways!  I'll be busting mine out when it's a little colder - maybe I will do something different than wrap, wrap, wrap it around my neck this year!  😂

Via the Spay/Neuter Coalition:

Via the Spay/Neuter Coalition:

How does spay and neuter have such a HUGE impact? Today we met a family that simply did not spay their female dog in time (due to lack of education about how easily and early she could become pregnant, as well as low cost options available to make it affordable to her). Her female dog had ELEVEN unwanted puppies. One life is quickly TWELVE lives... and this is from ONE animal. These puppies were "given away" before spaying and neutering and they will now continue the cycle as well. This is exactly why our surplus of homeless animals is out of control. PREVENTION has the biggest impact, by a landslide, before there are more unwanted lives brought into our world. Outreach, education and assistance are crucial to save the most lives.

FYI - I'm having a yard sale tomorrow morning.

FYI - I'm having a yard sale tomorrow morning.  Mostly, I want to get rid of Shadow's old clothes that don't fit, a few very toys, and my mom is bringing some neat stuff.  I also have a wooden student desk with a hood, light, and roll-y chair - it's not a piece of Wal-Mart crap, either.  So... just putting that out there if anyone needs or wants any of that stuff.

So true!

So true!  And with that being said it's time for me to text up the shortest Veteran I know - my brother!  ❤

So... I was really sleepy and getting ready for bed when...

So... I was really sleepy and getting ready for bed when Shadow's friend barfed spaghetti in one of the few carpeted rooms in my house.  I just took him home... guess I'm off to clean up vomit now.  I think this is worse than the sleepy friend who missed the toilet and pissed in the floor.  At least that was vinyl tiling.  Blegh.  Kids are SO GROSS!  🙁

Thanks for the hangout, MaryBeth.

Thanks for the hangout, MaryBeth.  I had been missing you!  Now I'm gonna have some money so I'll bring you dinner next time!  ❤

Former Foster Kittens!

"They are always together 🙂"

I haz a happy! 😃

I haz a happy! 😃

So I have a ton of clothes that Shadow can't wear anymore...

So I have a ton of clothes that Shadow can't wear anymore - from about sizes 7 to 12.  Jeans, outfits, shirts, hoodies - most of it is in decent shape.  I usually just donate everything, but I feel like I'd like to try to sell it this time (for cheap, of course).  With Christmas coming and Nappy needing surgery, it would be the smart move to make any money I can.  Anyone know of someone who might want any of it?

I'm not whining about being poor.

I'm not whining about being poor.  What I don't have, you can't take!  I'm safe because I'm just shit.  It's all good.  ❤

5 Things Nobody Tells You About Being Poor

There is some money in my pants where I can't reach it.

There is some money in my pants where I can't reach it.  I'm not sure how it got there or how to get it out...

So... what I've been working on for the last few days is in the link below.

So... what I've been working on for the last few days is in the link below.  It might not look like much, but our "Press" folder was a mess with catalog and web things thrown in randomly.  I still need to scan in a few catalogs and more recent things, but at least all of this is in order!  AND, we have a video up!  Btw, anyone heard of Polyvore?  Those collages look pretty cool.  I had no idea we were so popular on the web until recently!  Check it out!

[link broken]

Woke up with a headache, but...

Woke up with a headache, but hopefully nothing some Ibuprofen won't fix. Looking forward to work - hope I get to finish up something I've been working on for days. I'll post links if I get it done! 😃

I am going to...

I am going to put away some laundry, medicate the cat, then tuck the dogs in and call it a night. Sounds boring, but I am grateful for that right now. I can finally feel myself relaxing some and I'm hoping everyone in this house follows suit. We are all due for some serious down time.  ❤

🙁 Time for Nappy's shot!

🙁 Time for Nappy's shot! I got the jeeblies already! 😳

Monster thumbs!

Monster thumbs!  I'm SO loving the googly eyes!  Might have to do monsters more often, just because I like them.  And with COLOR!  Happy Halloween!  ❤

I've been in bed...

I've been in bed half sleeping / half awake, half dreaming / half thinking until about 10 minutes ago.

When I feel really stressed my bed is the only place I want to be.  🙁  It's after 2... I guess it's time to put on my big-girl panties and get my day started.

Just FYI, Ten rape prevention tips:

Just FYI, Ten rape prevention tips:

1. Don’t put drugs in people’s drinks.
2. When you see a person walking by themselves - leave them alone.
3. If you pull over to help a person whose car has broken down - remember not to rape them.
4. If you are in an elevator and a person gets in - don’t rape them.
5. When you encounter a person who is asleep the safest course of action is to not rape them.
6. Never creep into a person’s home through an unlocked door or window, or spring out at them from between parked cars, or rape them.
7. Remember:  People go to the laundry room to do their laundry. Do not attempt to molest someone who is alone in a laundry room.
8. Use the Buddy System!  If it is inconvenient for you to stop yourself from raping people then ask a trusted friend to accompany you at all times.
9. Carry a rape whistle. If you find that you are about to rape someone blow the whistle until someone comes to stop you.
10. Don’t forget: Honesty is the best policy. When asking a person out on a date don’t pretend that you are interested in them as a person; tell them straight up that you expect to be raping them later. If you don’t communicate your intentions the person may take it as a sign that you do not plan to rape them.

Took Snaga to the vet today...

Took Snaga to the vet today - she'd been looking sickly all week, but today she wouldn't even pick up her head to look at me.  🙁  SO... we found out that she's got a respiratory infection and now she's got pills, drops, and even some meds that go in her nose.  Poor kitten!  🙁  I hope she feels better soon!

OMG - it's just after 9 and I'm ready for bed.

OMG - it's just after 9 and I'm ready for bed.  Why am I so exhausted?  Thank you for dinner, MaryBeth.  I always love hanging with you and your mutts.  ❤

I just had the most EPIC idea...

I just had the most EPIC idea for a Halloween costume for Faith. I need a dog-sized karate outfit.  With the way she jumps around waving her arms, and barking with her mouth moving out of sync, she'd look like a ninja from one of those old dubbed-over movies.  😃  Anyone have an old kids outfit or have you seen one of those for dogs?

I just gave Tash a shot in her butt...

I just gave Tash a shot in her butt - my first injection ever.  She cried twice, but didn't cry when the vet did it.  I have the jeeblies and feel like I might barf.  Not sure who took it worse.  😳

I think it's hard to miss the butt-meat, but I really hope I did it right. 😐

Firefox just shut my Gmail...

Firefox just shut my Gmail because it found "sex" in it.  I was logged in under Shadow's profile on the computer (which has some child safety thing on it) when the Shaun-Shaun called.  The call didn't come through, but I saw the notification that I had a missed one so I called him back.  Firefox thought I was trying to be naughty because Shaun's last name is SEXton.  Bahaha.

Because I am brilliant...

Because I am brilliant I gave the cats the squeaky toy I bought them - right before bed.  Well... at least I know they like it!  😂  And with that I am done for the night.  ❤

Former foster Olive...

Former foster Olive (now Hazel) getting a snuggle from brother Brutus.  I see nothing but love!  😃

The gas leak was fixed 20 minutes ago, but...

The gas leak was fixed 20 minutes ago, but it's leaking again!

I just got back from dropping my foster kittens off...

I just got back from dropping my foster kittens off and there is no more loud hissing. Maybe it is fixed now, but the fire trucks are still there. Glad before anything exploded, but not before I started feeling sick from it. 🙁

Shit. There is a gas leak...

Shit.  There is a gas leak and I can't decide if I should go ahead and haul ass with the ani-pals or not.  🙁

To clarify:  It's not in my house - it's one of those things near the road. I think someone ran into one!

For the last few months...

For the last few months my pack has been really unstable. Before that they were doing great together - getting along, and any "fights" that happened were mild and resolved by the dogs before I even needed to step in. I would say they were more disagreements than anything. I thought that the cause of the instability was all of the foster dogs coming in and out - and especially with a few feisty ones thrown in most recently. I decided to take a break from fostering in order to give them a chance to chill out. The last thing I want is to stress my dogs to the point of fighting. Their well-being has to come first.

So I'm down to one foster, Lowrider, who's been here for two years and is no trouble. Yet, the fights have continued between my two largest females, Emma and Natasha (Nappy), and the severity is escalating. Thankfully, no one has been seriously injured and I'm playing musical dogs with those two for the moment to ensure their safety. I recently found out that Tash has arthritis and hip dysplasia. From all of the reading I've been doing over the last few days I really think that Emma has been sensing Tash's weakness / ailment and challenging her, and that Tash has a shortened fuse because she is often in pain. Emma is not doing anything that she hasn't before, but Tash would never fight her in the past.

I am certain that they don't fight if I am not in the room, but I think Em competes for my attention. If I see her doing the wrong body language to Tash - the kind that starts the fights - I can shout "Emma, NO!" and she'll stop. The 2nd to last fight was about two weeks ago when I was giving baths. I was drying Emma, Tasha came over, then fell on Em (the floor was wet, there were towels in the floor, and Tash is clumsy) so that was a weird one. I just didn't see that coming because until Tasha fell there were no signs that it was about to happen. The last fight was Saturday when I was trying to get Scooter and Scruffy out of the dog room for a walk. Tash and Emma were both pushing at the gate to get through and before I could notice that a fight was about to happen, it did. I blame myself for that one because I am fairly confident that if I pay more attention to what those two are doing I can stop a fight before it starts.

I'm glad that I have some idea of what's going on here, but I can't find any info on exactly how to handle this. From what I've read I should reinforce and protect the Alpha - who I've always believed to be Tash. If Em was the Alpha she would not be challenging anyone, right? So, if I'm stopping Emma from challenging Tash does that count as reinforcing Tash as Alpha? I know the whole feed one first, pet one first, etc., thing. Emma seems to defer naturally to her in all of those situations without me stepping in - yet again leading me to believe that Tash is Alpha.

Right now Tash is on shots to help lube her joints and hopefully help with the pain. She's got another vet appointment for the 1st of December so I will do whatever her doc recommends at that point. I will use my Christmas bonus to have her first surgery, if necessary. She can recoup for a few months and have the other hip done as soon as February or March when I get my taxes back. If it really is a "weakened Alpha" thing going on and she is better after surgery, then that would, hypothetically, make the situation better, right? I'm really hoping so. But what to do until then?

Another thing I have been a little unsure about is separating Tash from the group for recovery (when the time comes). I feel like I should so she can rest and heal, but I've also read to not separate the pack. Which leads me to also think that the musical dog thing I'm doing might not be for the best, either. So, that is why I need advice. I come across so many conflicting views on the web and I just want to do what is best. If you have ANY experience at all with this, please share it with me.

I really hope that no one thinks I'm a horrible fur-mom. Just like with Shadow I'm learning as I go and he's turning out ok. I want to be clear that I will do whatever I have to in order to ensure everyone's safety and well-being - I just need a little guidance. The way things are right now they can and do get along for the most part, but I don't want to see things get any uglier and I feel like things are getting trickier with the state that Tash is in. When the fights happen they stress me (and I'm sure the dogs, too) to no end. I hate seeing my girls trying to hurt each other like that. 🙁

Btw, if you actually read all of this, thank you. ❤

Bark in the Park was nice.

Bark in the Park was nice. Everyone thought Lowrider was adorable, of course, but for some reason I can't quite understand no one ever wants to take her home. At this point I'm relieved rather than disappointed - so I'm not complaining. It was fun to just get out with her (and Faith, obviously, since Lowrider can't go anywhere without her). I took Emma and Nappy for a car ride earlier so I think it's only fair to take Scooter and Booka out now.  So on that note:  I'm packing the car with dogs for the 3rd time today and heading out!  ❤

I feel like I'm in a pizza-induced coma...

I feel like I'm in a pizza-induced coma and could really, REALLY go for a sweet tea right now.  In other news:  I like Shadow's new friend. When I introduced him to Bob (my tree-plant-thing) he didn't look at me like I was crazy.  Instead, he said "How's it going?" and nodded.  😂  ❤ that!  😃

So... Shadow is officially at his first Middle School Dance.

So... Shadow is officially at his first Middle School Dance.  He's gonna have to talk to his GrandMeta when he gets home - he won't tell me if he danced with a girl.  😂  And on the way out one of the chaperones was telling me that they had a really good DJ and that he wouldn't play any songs with curse words.  I just laughed to myself - my kid can rap right along with most of Eminem's songs.  Too bad he won't get to show off his flow, as well as his moves!

The trip to the vet was such a bummer.

The trip to the vet was such a bummer. I am shocked, sad, and stressed to learn that the source of Nappy's pain is arthritis and hip dysplasia. However, I am grateful to not be in the shoes of the woman who had to have her best friend put to sleep, or those of the woman who lost her house and everything in it to a fire, but who's little dog with asthma is in bad shape due to the smoke inhalation. While I'm freaked the hell out at least Nappy is safe and we have options. It could definitely be worse.  🙁

Last tape mani I tried.

Last tape mani I tried.  I think it turned out nice, but I didn't wear it for more than a day.  I might have liked it better in different colors.

I thought this looked pretty cool.

I thought this looked pretty cool.  It's like, no joke, about 10 layers of polish. Base coat, 2 coats of pearly white, SV, glitter, 2 coats of SV, rose crackle, SV, and extra layers of SV over the one's with paws. The paws are not actually made for nails, so they are thick and didn't stick down so great. But I thought it looked nice anyway, for a girly pink mani. 🙂

Foster Kittens need a home!

ADOPTED October 24, 2011 - This is one of my foster kittens. He is a neutered male, born around May 20, and tested negative for feline Leukemia. He is not sick - I believe that he might have gotten his eye scratched during play. He otherwise looks good and acts healthy!

ADOPTED October 24, 2011 - This is my other foster kitten, also a neutered male, tested negative for feline Leukemia, born around May 20.  Needs a good home!

I've had a wonderful day.

I've had a wonderful day. Nice time at Lake Hypatia once again, and I even got to see my darling Dahlia this afternoon. She's doing so great - she was the same Dahlia I remember - goofy and happy. 🙂 She rode in the golf cart, snuggled me on the ground, and played in the pool. It was lovely. Despite the good things that have made me smile this fine Sunday, my heart feels heavy. I need to be still and listen to myself. Something is weighing on me and I just don't know what. 🙁

Off to take a shower!

Off to take a shower! I smell like shelter dogs and armpits! ❤

Getting to hang out with Sherbert this weekend!

Getting to hang out with Sherbert this weekend!  I'm pup-sitting one of my former fosters while Shari hopefully has a lovely time!  I have missed Sherbie - he's kind of strange!  😂  I hear he has his (hopefully last) knee surgery coming up next week.  Then I think he'll finally be ready to find his forever home!  ❤

Me and Shadow just got home from seeing Chicago live!

Me and Shadow just got home from seeing Chicago live!  Wow.  I only recognized 4 songs, but it was so much fun!  There was this crazy long, seizure-inducing, AWESOME drum solo.  Shadow liked them and had fun, too.  I'm glad I got to see them, but I really hate that Shari missed out.  I hope you get to see them one day!  ❤

This photo is heartbreaking, yet so uplifting.

This photo is heartbreaking, yet so uplifting.  I have seen many dogs make this transformation, and it is nothing short of amazing every time.  I agree that shelter pets and other toss-aways are not damaged goods - they are most definitely living souls who with some TLC and nurturing can and will show you what the simple act of caring can do.  You will never feel more appreciated or loved than you will by an animal you've chosen to help.  I would urge all of my friends to try it, at least once.  Yes, it might be tough at times, but nothing worth doing isn't.  ❤

[Photo redacted - it's a sad dog in a shelter vs. the same happy dog a few months later.]

Thinking about going paleo...

Thinking about going paleo (the caveman diet - woohoo!) for the month of November, just to see if I can and how it affects me.  I really should eat better things for me, and I do believe that natural foods are best.  Anyone feel like trying it out with me?  Shaun definitely will not give up ice cream and pizza, so I need another person to be my motivated partner in crime.  Come on - don't leave me hanging!  You don't even have to see me - just tell me what you're eating every day (and I'll do the same), on the honor system.  If you're too wussy to try a month, we can do a week or two.  I'm down for whatever!

Feeling bad for (Office) Cat.

Feeling bad for (Office) Cat.  She's been winking like a pirate all day.  ;[  I hope she feels better soon!  We'll have to keep an eye on her eye!

Hazel after her first day of daycare!

Hazel after her first day of daycare!  Looks like she must have played herself out!  😃

Olive - now known as Hazel...

Olive - now known as Hazel, must be all played out! Chillin' with brother Brutus! This photo just made my day!

Just got home from the dentist.

Just got home from the dentist.  First filling in 10 years - it was a replacement.  It's a pretty white one, not that gunky metal shit.  Woohoo!  Face is numb and I'm hungry!

Just finished with doggie baths...

Just finished with doggie baths... resting and letting the hot water heat up again, then I can take a shower!  I am SO looking forward to it!

The only thing on my to-do list today:

The only thing on my to-do list today:  Wash the dogs!  Only 6, (5 permanent and 1 foster) so that's easy.  Btw, the plan is to have no fosters by the end of the year.  Lowrider has until December 31st to find another home!

What happens if she doesn't? Well... she'll stay in this one, of course - but as a permanent dog! In all truthfulness I'm having a hard time waiting until the end of the year. I'm kind of feeling ready to just adopt her now.

Uh-huh, all you cat people.

Uh-huh, all you cat people.  Shaun, Deanna - I'm lookin' at you!  😂❤

Olive and her new family!

Olive and her new family!  Couldn't wait to get home and see the large versions of these photos!  😃😃😃

She seems to like them already!  How awesome!  ❤

I'm on Shaun's phone, which is rather limiting...

I'm on Shaun's phone, which is rather limiting. But I know all I need to know - Olive made it home! Check out her photos on the Peace and Paws page! ❤ I am so happy! 😃

On a much lighter and goofier note:

On a much lighter and goofier note:  I saw a car with CarLashes on today (first time I'd ever seen that!) and it made me giggle. Check it out (you have to click the link for the photos) - I totally want some now!  http://carlashes.com/

Dropped off Olive today.

Dropped off Olive today.  I hear she's doing well and I'll see photos of her tomorrow with her new family.  Her new life is going to be so great and for that I am thankful and happy.  But I'm telling you - it just never gets easier to say goodbye.

Heading out to meet Rescue Riders

Heading out to meet Rescue Riders - don't want to be late!  Saying goodbye is never easy - I've been weepy for two days already.  😂  Wishing a safe journey home to my Olive Oil!  ❤

Olive is getting her stitches out tomorrow!

Olive is getting her stitches out tomorrow!  Her new mom emailed to check on her.  They are taking the day off on Friday to spend with her, and even said that they send Brutus to doggie daycare once in a while, which he loves.  She can watch him all day via webcam. How cool is that?  I think she is going to have it SO GOOD!  😃

It's cold in my house.

It's cold in my house.  I just ate marshmallows that I toasted over my stove.  I think it's time to start having real fires!

I ate SO MUCH...

I ate SO MUCH at lunch / dinner (linner? dunch?) today.  Two loaves of Outback bread with honey butter before I even got my real food.  😂  Must be why I'm a slug right now.  I have work to do, but I'm going to sit on my butt, do my nails (haven't in almost a week!), and DIGEST.  Sounds like a plan to me!

I am...

I am having ice cream for breakfast. OH YEAH! 😃

What a long, long day.

What a long, long day.  Not bad, just... long.  Olive is doing fine.  Her eye is much less swollen than I expected today.  Anyway, I'm calling it a night.  ❤

Olive after her surgery today.

Olive after her surgery today. She looks so sad and is especially not happy about that darn E-Collar.

Olive is home and resting.

Olive is home and resting.  She doesn't really seem phased by the procedure - just glad to be back.  Eating, drinking, and napping in a familiar place.  Her lids are swollen and it doesn't look great, but it's normal for the day after having it done.  So far she's not messing with it, but the first thing she does when she comes out of the crate is rub her face on the couch so I will have to not let her do that.  Anyway, will keep you posted!  Off to work now!

Olive's procedure went well.

Olive's procedure went well.  When I talked to the vet she was still groggy, but resting and doing ok.  She had to have both lids on her right eye done, poor girl.  I will pick her up early in the morning, get her settled in, and let you know how she's doing, of course.  🙂

My head doesn't hate me anymore...

My head doesn't hate me anymore... it's more like a mild dislike at this point. Getting ready to take Ms. Olive to have her eye did!  Paws crossed that it goes well.  ❤

Was looking at Shaun's old Google Buzz...

Was looking at Shaun's old Google Buzz and saw this again.  ❤ AFP.  😃

Ugh

Ugh - starting this Monday like a Monday with a huge headache! 🙁

Had a nice weekend. 🙂

Had a nice weekend. 🙂 Lunch with new friends, accomplished a lot at home, Game Night at MaryBeth's (drinks + board games = FUN), lazy morning with Shaun, and wished Mom a Happy Birthday. Nice and relaxing but still got some things done - just what I needed!  ❤

Writing down directions to the vet - just in case.

Writing down directions to the vet - just in case.  Olive gets her eyelid fixed tomorrow!  She will spend the night away from home - whatever will I do without a dog to take in and out of a crate?

I bought Midna a scratchy thing at Target.

I bought Midna a scratchy thing at Target. SHE ❤❤❤s it! 😃

Here's a real top story:

Here's a real top story:  Olive is having surgery on her eyelid Monday, spending the night at the vet, coming home Tuesday morning, recovering for 9 days, getting her stitches out on Wednesday, then HEADING FOR HER FOREVER HOME on Thursday!  Baby girl is making the trek to MA to be with her new family - a mom, dad, and Mastiff brother!  Paws crossed that we have no complications!  And this wonderful thing couldn't have happened without the wonderful Melissa of Peace and Paws!  (Btw Melissa, be sure to tell Bo to bring some extra tissue for me at the drop-off.  I'm gonna need it!)  ❤

Facebook is pissing me off.

Facebook is pissing me off.  It's going the way of Myspace... changing too much - all at one time.  I stopped visiting Myspace because of that and I will stop going there, too!  I was never as fond of FB as MS, though.  Old Myspace.  I like how everything was separated.  Everything is just all jumbled together on FB.  Blegh.

Had a great time hanging out with MaryBeth!

Had a great time hanging out with MaryBeth!  Thanks for dinner and I ❤❤❤ just chillin' with you and the fur-kids!  Now I'm off to bed - so tired!

I put on my mood polish last night...

I put on my mood polish last night... and it's not really changing color under hot or cold water.  However, it's pink at the cuticle and purple at the tip so it has this cool gradient thing going on.  I really like it anyway!

I got a mood nail polish today!

I got a mood nail polish today!  Who knew the mall had some much stuff?  I rarely go in there these days.  I'm too old.  😂

Heading to our Free Thought / Freedom From Religion meet-up.

Heading to our Free Thought / Freedom From Religion meet-up.  It's only our 2nd time going, but I love those people already!

I just rescued an opossum from the dogs.

I just rescued an opossum from the dogs. He just had some spit on him - I don't think they actually roughed him up, though - it was only Scooter and Scruffy out there. I took a flashlight to see if he needed a vet or not and asked him if he was going to be ok. He uncurled, got up, and walked away... so I guess I got my answer! 🙂  You know - I'm wondering if he could have anything to do with the weird musky smell in my house right now. It has smelled strange since I got back from Wal-Mart...

Making...

Making rum balls for Sunday! Woohoo! 😃

I'm so tired and glad to be home.

I'm so tired and glad to be home. Too bad I'm a grump right now. I think I will do my nails and get over it. 😛

Washing Booka's little stank butt...

Washing Booka's little stank butt and calling it a night. ❤

And... my neighbors are fighting.

And... my neighbors are fighting.  Again.  My dogs are going nuts.  If I go and get them I feel like I'm eavesdropping.  Not that they would notice me, I guess.

Hi friends.

Hi friends.  I have a friend who has found a mama cat and 4 two-three week old kittens. They are not in the safest place, and she would like to find someone to take them. She will loan a crate to anyone willing to take them.  Let me know if you're interested. I can't do it - I have decided to stop hogging up the good deeds.  🙂

I just helped Shadow with his homework...

I just helped Shadow with his homework and didn't yell at him once!  Speaking of Shadow - that kid is learning how to draw like a mofo!  He's showing me all of this stuff he's drawn and I can't even believe it.  It's not like the stick men I'm used to seeing!

Slept like rock. 😃

Slept like rock. 😃 When I took Olive out her eye is more open than I've ever seen it. The kittens both have bright, big eyes, rather than squinty, snotty ones. Nappy is still crying when she stands, but she's a big weenie... I'll wait until she's done with her meds before I take her back to the vet. The only thing not great is Snaga barfing everywhere... I switched her food back to what it was before, and she is NOT able to keep it down. 🙁

I am beyond exhausted.

I am beyond exhausted. I see me taking my tired self to bed in the next hour, tops. Big thanks to my Shaun-Shaun for helping me switch out my doggie door and helping Shadow with homework. He took care of that while I medicated the ani-pals and cleaned up a bit. Some days I feel so overwhelmed and he jumps right in to relieve the pressure. Thank you, love. ❤

Saw a small scruffy blond dog this morning...

Saw a small scruffy blond dog this morning on Quintard near 10th Street. Tried to catch him, but he wouldn't let me get close. He really reminds me of Scruffy except narrower and pointier. Please drive carefully in the area! I'm sure someone misses him!

Any of you runners want to take a dog out for a spin?

Any of you runners want to take a dog out for a spin? I've got one crated and she has some energy to burn. Unfortunately, I can't keep up and don't have too many options for letting her exercise safely.  The best I can do at the moment is put all the dogs out and give her the dog room for a while. But that's nothing like fresh air and a friend!

Olive's eye is opening up...

Olive's eye is opening up (we'll see if it lasts after the drops are done) and the kittens don't have eye boogers for the first time since I got them. Maybe the meds are working. Nappy is still crying when she stands, but she's a big weenie so I'll give her some more time. I hope everyone is on the mend!

Marriage Rant

I've had a couple of people ask me why me and Shaun don't get married. I guess, financially, it would be a smart move for me. But, there is so much more to it than that

I have this huge problem with getting married so that someone can "take care of me." I have this huge problem with anyone "taking care of me" regardless. I can't really explain it, but if I can't handle my own, then I'm not doing ok. Maybe it comes down to no longer being in control of my own life if I'm depending on someone else. Maybe it's that if someone is taking care of me and seeing to my well-being, then I owe them something. I'm going into debt somehow. I mean, what if they quit? Where does that leave me? Nowhere? In bad shape? If someone is taking care of me, then I'm more of a pet than a person, right? I don't know. I just have a lot of problems with it.

I got started thinking about all of this when my car broke down about a month ago. (Looks like not a lot has changed for me there in the year I've neglected this blog.) Yeah, Shaun lives close to me and we work at the same place so it wasn't like getting a ride to work was a huge deal. But then I wanted to do something with a friend that was out of his way so I had to ask him to take me. When I needed to go to Wal-Mart I had to ask him to take me. I just got so mad. I spent that whole week ANGRY because I had to ask him to help me. Every day I was like, "THANK YOU FOR TAKING ME TO WORK, GOD DAMN IT!" It just pissed me off so much that I needed help. Really, I was grateful for a ride and told him as much, but he knew I wasn't happy. It threw me back into the days of living at home with my mom when I had to ask permission for everything. I had no independence. I was at his mercy. SO NOT OK with me.

I mean with me having a kid and needing a better car and living usually on the broke-ish side and all that it would make financial sense for me to try to get married and have someone help me with all that. But I can't do it. I just can't. I love Shaun all the way down into little bitty pieces, but that is one reason why I would not want to become his burden. IF I am ever to marry I will be an equal partner and bring something more than a needy woman to it. I certainly will not be bringing the debt left over from my last relationship into it. I will not be showing up without a car so that he can provide one for me. I just feel like it's so shitty of any person to let their life go to hell and then expect some knight in shining armor to come and marry them and fix it all and support their children and live happily ever after, blah blah blah. What does the knight get out of that? Why are you even worthy of him doing that?

And I don't want to hear the BS about marriage being about love. If that is ALL it's about, then why do you need to move in together and combine everything? I'm sure many people do not share this sentiment, but I can love Shaun while he still lives at his house. And he can love me from where he is, too. We've been doing it for a few years now with no problems. Honestly, I worry that I will not be able to live with someone again. I like things how I like things at my house and I don't want to compromise. I want to do what I want to do without needing to take anyone else into consideration. I enjoy that. It is called freedom and it's a damn good thing.

I imagine that one day when Shadow is grown and out of the house I will feel differently. I'll be older and maybe a little softer and probably lonely with him being gone and I'll have my shit together the way I want it (I certainly damn should). Maybe then I will be worthy of giving myself to someone else and maybe I'll realize that having things just how I want them isn't more fulfilling than live-in companionship. But I am not there yet. Things are working out, I'm happy being my stubborn self, living with Shadow and a bunch of dogs, and there is just no reason to change that yet. I guess that once again I'm the odd man out here, but being a married person is not at the top of my to-do list. It boggles my mind that it is for so many.

Just want to put it out there that this is my own feeling on the whole deal. He hasn't asked me or anything so it's not like it has come up. I guess people just don't understand why you wouldn't rush out and get hitched if things are going well. I think that neither of us feel the need to do that, so thankfully, we are on the same page.

Ten years ago today...

Ten years ago today I was tying my shoes on the arm of my mom's blue recliner, listening to Q104 while getting ready for class at Ayers State. I heard the news and my stomach dropped. I was scared and not sure what to do so I went about my day as normal. After class I went to work at Spencer's in the mall and met Nick. That was a rather life-altering day.

Olive is sometimes looking at me with 1.5 eyes today.

Olive is sometimes looking at me with 1.5 eyes today.  Maybe the drops are working!  She's also getting to spend some time out of the crate and on the couch.  When I sit by her I get this huge, goofy, wide open-mouth grin.  I think she's having a good day.  🙂  Wish I could get a photo, but I think the flash hurts her sore eye and I can't get a good photo in my lighting without it.

I feel so unmotivated today.

I feel so unmotivated today. And I have a lot to do. Which, come to think of it, is probably why I don't want to do anything.  🙁

Aww!

Aww - Oogy is sleeping by her heater! She LIKES it! 😃

Shaun got his Alpha Nail polish.

Shaun got his Alpha Nail polish. The remover has this note after instructions on the bottom:  "*Failure to reapply new coat of Alpha Nail may lead to loss of social dominance and / or mating privileges."  Niiice.  Even better - he has an autographed Alpha Nail poster signed by Roger Huerta... whoever the hell that is.  😃

The vet trip went fine.

The vet trip went fine. Kittens do not have feline leukemia but are on antibiotics, Olive has new eye drops (if that doesn't help, small surgical procedure to follow), and Nappy is on an anti-inflammatory.

Gotta love having a large clumsy dog who falls into holes that the others dig. 😂 Thank you, Shari, for helping and letting me follow you. You are the best. ❤ And Scarlet is beautiful!

Getting ready to head to the vet.

Getting ready to head to the vet.  Tired of my foster kittens looking sick, Tasha squealing every time she stands, and Olive looking at me with one eye.  🙁  I hope we can get everyone well in this visit.

Skittle fingers and patchwork thumb.

Skittle fingers and patchwork thumb.  This is my left hand, so it's messier than the right, but the thumb turned out a lot cooler.