So Eby is home, she was gone a little over 24 hours.
I was hanging a sign in a nearby neighborhood and someone said they'd seen her playing with kids. So I went back to hang signs on the mailbox bank of the apartments she was last seen in, and two boys were outside playing basketball. I asked if they had seen her, and they had. They took me to the apartment of the person they thought had her.
No one answered.
We went back with a photo and a note to leave on their door, and I knocked again. The owner came to the door and said her daughter had been playing with the dog, but left it outside last night. She thought another neighbor had seen her last. She took us over there and that neighbor wasn't home. But the lady promised to show our picture to her when she did get home.
The lady called John. Our note included the word "Reward". The conversation went something like this: "Yeah, I have your dog here, what's the reward?" John told her a $25 WalMart card. She said "Ok, you want to meet at the Circle K in a few minutes?" Well, John told her he would have to go and get the gift card. "Cash will be fine" she said.
Let's just say the neighborhood she was roaming is economically challenged. I cringed at the thought of her living there.
Anyway, a few minutes later and $25 less, Eby was home!!! The only thing different about her is some GI upset. No telling what she's eaten.
Her collar is now on :) We are very very happy she's back with us.
I also had my OB appointment today. I failed my one hour glucose challenge. So now I have to go for the three hour. What fun.
The nurse practitioner was very nice. She let us know because they are owned by the local hospital, as financial decision the hospital corporation let the midwife go. She said everyone at the practice was really upset about it and all her clients were too.
It's good to know there were no "problems" that were the reason for her leaving. The NP said she gave Robin some leads for possible positions elsewhere. She said Robin does want to stay in the area. I sincerely hope another practice will hire her. The hospital recruited her from South Florida and she had only been at the practice 6 months. I think that's pretty crummy of them.
The NP encouraged me to at least meet with one of the doctors in the practice- because she is young and "kinda crunchy" herself. She seems to think I'd really like here.
I'm not sure what to do. I am going to ask around for opinions.
Just wanted to keep everyone updated.
Showing posts with label Kiddos (Dogs). Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kiddos (Dogs). Show all posts
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Loss
Today turned out a lot different than I planned.
It was a busy day at work. But I'm in the Intensive Care Unit this week and enjoying it, so that was ok (the busy-ness).
That is, until lunch. When I saw I had a missed call from my husband.
I called to check in to find out that he sold our truck- yay!
And to find out that our dog Eby had gone missing. Boo. Big boo.
I knew I had to keep it together because there was still much to be done at work. She's gone missing a few times before. We'd always been blessed to recover her. Only John had already been looking awhile when he told me. And she doesn't have on her collar.
Ernie got out too but came back home before John even knew he was gone. Eby always puts her nose to the ground and takes off, being a member of the hound group.
The details really aren't important. What matters is that she is gone. She hasn't turned up.
We put out signs at the intersection and the entrances to the subdivisions near us. Tomorrow we plan to put out smaller signs in the neighborhoods and put slips in a lot of mailboxes. She is a sweet and friendly dog so I am hoping someone took her into their house. And I sincerely hope that someone sees a sign and calls us. The not knowing is unbearable.
We live near a big busy road. That worries me. There are probably 400-500 houses within a quarter mile of us. That worries me too. She's been gone for hours and hours. Hopefully not getting farther and farther away. That worries me too.
She was a stray when we got her. So obviously she's run off before. Not good for us.
I wonder if she never comes back, if we'll get another dog. If Ernie will be lonely. How I could learn to love another dog? How we could get such a good match again?
I've been praying a lot to be at peace. To not be angry and worried. But it's so hard. I really do love my dogs.
And then the day brought more loss.
I got am automated reminder call from my midwife's office for my appointment tomorrow, but it said it was with the nurse practitioner. I called to see if my midwife was out, or sick, or whatever.
She's gone.
"She's no longer with the practice". What the heck? No courtesy call or letter? They were just gonna let me show up and find out. I asked if she was still in the area or had moved to another practice "Not that we're aware of at this time. But you can come in and discuss your options with the nurse practitioner." I know my options. She is the only midwife in the practice. The nurse practitioners don't do deliveries, and the other two partners are MD's.
I have a call in to our Bradley instructor to see if she can find out anything. In the meantime I'll see the NP for tomorrow. I need my lab results. I had a list of questions for the midwife about her policy/beliefs on some things. Guess I can leave that at home.
I'd really come to adore my midwife. She's so positive and enthusiastic. I'm super disappointed.
There is another midwife in town. I'm fairly certain that's who I'll switch to if I can't find Robin at another practice somewhere in town. But this midwife is at a different practice. And all her backup physicians are male. And I'm almost 7 months pregnant. And all the trust I'd built with Robin is gone.
I was talking to the Lord about all this as I drove home from work. I know He is fully able to control all these things and I can have a happy healthy baby and an uncomplicated birth even if I only meet the "baby catcher" in the delivery room. But He also knows how I feel.
It's a good thing He can help with feelings, because a lot of mine are not in line right now.
Just being honest.
Debbie Downer signing off now.
It was a busy day at work. But I'm in the Intensive Care Unit this week and enjoying it, so that was ok (the busy-ness).
That is, until lunch. When I saw I had a missed call from my husband.
I called to check in to find out that he sold our truck- yay!
And to find out that our dog Eby had gone missing. Boo. Big boo.
I knew I had to keep it together because there was still much to be done at work. She's gone missing a few times before. We'd always been blessed to recover her. Only John had already been looking awhile when he told me. And she doesn't have on her collar.
Ernie got out too but came back home before John even knew he was gone. Eby always puts her nose to the ground and takes off, being a member of the hound group.
The details really aren't important. What matters is that she is gone. She hasn't turned up.
We put out signs at the intersection and the entrances to the subdivisions near us. Tomorrow we plan to put out smaller signs in the neighborhoods and put slips in a lot of mailboxes. She is a sweet and friendly dog so I am hoping someone took her into their house. And I sincerely hope that someone sees a sign and calls us. The not knowing is unbearable.
We live near a big busy road. That worries me. There are probably 400-500 houses within a quarter mile of us. That worries me too. She's been gone for hours and hours. Hopefully not getting farther and farther away. That worries me too.
She was a stray when we got her. So obviously she's run off before. Not good for us.
I wonder if she never comes back, if we'll get another dog. If Ernie will be lonely. How I could learn to love another dog? How we could get such a good match again?
I've been praying a lot to be at peace. To not be angry and worried. But it's so hard. I really do love my dogs.
 |
| Please come home Eby!!!!!!!!! |
And then the day brought more loss.
I got am automated reminder call from my midwife's office for my appointment tomorrow, but it said it was with the nurse practitioner. I called to see if my midwife was out, or sick, or whatever.
She's gone.
"She's no longer with the practice". What the heck? No courtesy call or letter? They were just gonna let me show up and find out. I asked if she was still in the area or had moved to another practice "Not that we're aware of at this time. But you can come in and discuss your options with the nurse practitioner." I know my options. She is the only midwife in the practice. The nurse practitioners don't do deliveries, and the other two partners are MD's.
I have a call in to our Bradley instructor to see if she can find out anything. In the meantime I'll see the NP for tomorrow. I need my lab results. I had a list of questions for the midwife about her policy/beliefs on some things. Guess I can leave that at home.
I'd really come to adore my midwife. She's so positive and enthusiastic. I'm super disappointed.
There is another midwife in town. I'm fairly certain that's who I'll switch to if I can't find Robin at another practice somewhere in town. But this midwife is at a different practice. And all her backup physicians are male. And I'm almost 7 months pregnant. And all the trust I'd built with Robin is gone.
I was talking to the Lord about all this as I drove home from work. I know He is fully able to control all these things and I can have a happy healthy baby and an uncomplicated birth even if I only meet the "baby catcher" in the delivery room. But He also knows how I feel.
It's a good thing He can help with feelings, because a lot of mine are not in line right now.
Just being honest.
Debbie Downer signing off now.
Friday, July 27, 2012
Baby White Week 24- 6 months!
Wow. I can't believe I start my 6th month this week! Of course it does make me feel better to be able to justify the size of my belly :)
Sophie got a lot of things this week! And mostly for cheap or free :)
My good friend Marisa had literally 3 rubbermaid tubs of baby girl clothes. Seems her sister-in-law thought that since she's preggo with her last, and it's a boy, that she'd pass them along for "someday". Well, that's a lot to store when you're not even trying to get pregnant! So I was happy to take some off her hands. And if she keeps them, I can go shopping again once Sophie gets into 12mo clothing. But for now, she got some really cute winter stuff. I hope she will get to wear some of it. With the seasons here and not knowing how big she'll be or how fast she'll grow, you just never know!
I also got 2 other tops and another Dr. Brown's bottle, all for $1.50!
And then I scored some other great maternity clothes while out thrifting with the hubs Wednesday. I got everything for $23!
In my exhaustive hunt for cheap maternity clothes- I've discovered I could possibly make quite a business out of re-selling maternity wear. I've had little luck finding much at thrift stores or yard sales, and not much on craigslist in my size. I don't know if it's because the fad is to just wear normal clothes with empire waists or just get your t-shirts a size larger or what. Or maybe everyone keeps theirs "in case" or gives them to friends. But I can tell you that a lot of the thrift stores here do not have a maternity section. I'm told there aren't many donations of maternity items and that's the reason. It's a real bummer.
Perhaps I need to visit the baby/toddler/kids consignment shops since I know sometimes they carry maternity too. But I'm such a bargain hunter I really want them at yard sale prices. If I'm gonna spend 10 or 15 bucks I might as well get something new at Ross or TJ Maxx.
I do think, that for me at least, maternity clothes make a huge difference in how I feel. I've bought a few regular clothes, just in larger sizes, and I certainly don't feel very attractive in those. To get any tops long enough to cover the belly, they end up being so big around that I feel like I'm wearing a tent. And I just don't want people thinking I'm just overweight. I want it to be obvious that I'm round in the middle for a reason, and it aint just cheeseburgers :) Maybe if I'd been a svelte lady to begin with, I could get away with just buying a size larger and sticking with regular clothes, but when you're already straddling the line of "plus size" pre-pregnancy, going bigger just seems to mean going tent.
My belly is getting so firm- I wonder how I'll be able to fit Sophie in when she gains another 7 pounds or more! The bump is already getting a tad cumbersome. I hope I'll be able to breathe by month 9! But overall I'm still feeling pretty well. I can see how the second trimester is usually the favorite. I'm big enough that it's apparent to most people that I'm pregnant, I can feel the baby move and so can others if they're patient. Yet I'm not so big I'm miserable. And I'm not still sick. In fact, I toughed it out through Zumba twice this week. Sophie's first Zumba class (I've been a real slackie at the gym). I had to make it lower impact than normal (jumping and hopping just doesn't feel good), but I was able to complete the class. I felt pretty proud of myself- pressing on when some non-pregos dropped out :) But let me tell you, I was tired afterward. It's all worth it though, because I know staying active will certainly help me achieve my natural birth goals.
So here's the 6 month bump:
And then we decided to have a photo shoot...
Oh my, I promise Ernie isn't dead. But he sure looks cold and stiff in these pics! I laughed so hard.
Sophie got a lot of things this week! And mostly for cheap or free :)
My good friend Marisa had literally 3 rubbermaid tubs of baby girl clothes. Seems her sister-in-law thought that since she's preggo with her last, and it's a boy, that she'd pass them along for "someday". Well, that's a lot to store when you're not even trying to get pregnant! So I was happy to take some off her hands. And if she keeps them, I can go shopping again once Sophie gets into 12mo clothing. But for now, she got some really cute winter stuff. I hope she will get to wear some of it. With the seasons here and not knowing how big she'll be or how fast she'll grow, you just never know!
 |
| 1/2 off Christmas at the thrift store! The sleeper on the left says "My First Christmas" on the pocket and bottoms of the feet. So cute! $1.50. Pajama set, $2. |
 |
| Fur coat and fur trimmed outfit- so cute! Free! |
 |
| Snowman onesie- $1.50, 4 headbands, $1, Mrs. Clause dress, free! Black onesie, 0.50 |
 |
| Umbrella stroller, $5 and walker- free! Thanks Freecycle! |
 |
| For mom, $2 |
In my exhaustive hunt for cheap maternity clothes- I've discovered I could possibly make quite a business out of re-selling maternity wear. I've had little luck finding much at thrift stores or yard sales, and not much on craigslist in my size. I don't know if it's because the fad is to just wear normal clothes with empire waists or just get your t-shirts a size larger or what. Or maybe everyone keeps theirs "in case" or gives them to friends. But I can tell you that a lot of the thrift stores here do not have a maternity section. I'm told there aren't many donations of maternity items and that's the reason. It's a real bummer.
Perhaps I need to visit the baby/toddler/kids consignment shops since I know sometimes they carry maternity too. But I'm such a bargain hunter I really want them at yard sale prices. If I'm gonna spend 10 or 15 bucks I might as well get something new at Ross or TJ Maxx.
I do think, that for me at least, maternity clothes make a huge difference in how I feel. I've bought a few regular clothes, just in larger sizes, and I certainly don't feel very attractive in those. To get any tops long enough to cover the belly, they end up being so big around that I feel like I'm wearing a tent. And I just don't want people thinking I'm just overweight. I want it to be obvious that I'm round in the middle for a reason, and it aint just cheeseburgers :) Maybe if I'd been a svelte lady to begin with, I could get away with just buying a size larger and sticking with regular clothes, but when you're already straddling the line of "plus size" pre-pregnancy, going bigger just seems to mean going tent.
My belly is getting so firm- I wonder how I'll be able to fit Sophie in when she gains another 7 pounds or more! The bump is already getting a tad cumbersome. I hope I'll be able to breathe by month 9! But overall I'm still feeling pretty well. I can see how the second trimester is usually the favorite. I'm big enough that it's apparent to most people that I'm pregnant, I can feel the baby move and so can others if they're patient. Yet I'm not so big I'm miserable. And I'm not still sick. In fact, I toughed it out through Zumba twice this week. Sophie's first Zumba class (I've been a real slackie at the gym). I had to make it lower impact than normal (jumping and hopping just doesn't feel good), but I was able to complete the class. I felt pretty proud of myself- pressing on when some non-pregos dropped out :) But let me tell you, I was tired afterward. It's all worth it though, because I know staying active will certainly help me achieve my natural birth goals.
So here's the 6 month bump:
 | |
| So kind of him to let me post it. Pokin' out the belly. Lol |
 |
| Time for new FB profile pic :) Excuse my huge arms |
 |
| My sweet yet miserable Eby girl |
 |
| The many faces of Ernie |
 | ||
| There's bound to be a good one in there somewhere! |
 |
| There it is! |
 |
| Post-mortem Ernie |
Crazy Dog!
Saturday, July 21, 2012
Baby White Week 23- What's in a name?
Hi everyone!
I'm writing to ya'll from the comfort of my glider :) I also just got back from visiting a beautiful new momma friend and her little 4-day old nugget Lily. Lily attended her first girl's night since about 6 ladies came over to talk and eat. Lily slept through most of it :)
I learned a lesson this week: you should not eat Pizza Hut buffet when pregnant. Even if it sounds good. It is really bad for you and it will come back to haunt you. Little girl white also did not move around for awhile. I think I took up all her space with food. And then when I went to bed there wasn't enough space for both of them. Thank you pepperoni-induced heartburn.
I think I've also reached the point that I'm going to feel like I have a full bladder all the time. Because I feel full, and then produce very little. Graphic I know. It's really not the most fun feeling, to go to the bathroom and then immediately feel like you have to go again.
We took our hospital tour/orientation this week. I liked touring everything, but thought the class would be mostly about the hospital policies, what to expect in the routines, etc. Instead it was more about pregnancy do's and dont's, the classes and services they have available etc. But they did have life size weighted replicas of babies there- and it was fun to hold the 20 week one since that's what I'm close to. It's no wonder my bladder feels full. That little one is taking up a lot of space already.
I had a moment of surrealism when we toured the labor/delivery room. It kinda was like- whoa- this is where it all goes down. When I leave this room there will be another human being with me. In this room another living person will come out of me. Whoa. But I tried to talk myself down from any fears since I know fear will only hinder things when delivery time comes. We did get to see the big huge tub. Two of their rooms have them. You can't birth in them though- they are just for relaxation.
I should be really transparent- now that I can look back and laugh, and let you all know that I had a meltdown in the class. I rushed home from work, changed clothes, and we were off. I hadn't eaten for about 5.5 hours and I was starving. We stopped to get some food and they were taking so long we had to leave before we even ordered. Then I realized it was like 10 minutes later than the car clock said because John's car clock is slow and we can't change it. So we were running late. And then John needed directions to the hospital, he almost missed a turn, and I was really feeling impatient (I don't like being late to that kind of stuff) and very hungry. In fact I already felt tear-y in the car. We got to class and THANK THE LORD they had some snacks there. However, John was already upset with me due to my impatient and short attitude. I tried to explain I was really hungry and that was why I was being short. But since that was not his fault he didn't understand why I would be short with him.
Anyway, about ten minutes into class, after eating a snack, I wrote him a note telling him how bad I had been feeling because of not eating. And then I started crying. Right there in class. After I got food. Thankfully we were in the back and I managed to get to the bathroom- which seemed like it was a mile away- and have a big ol fashioned boo-hoo in private. I think only about 4 people saw me. But the janitor did ask if I was ok as I hauled booty past him into the bathrooms. All I could do was nod so as not to further the tears. Pretty embarrassing.
But anyway, since I titled this post with a bit of a lead-in, I better deliver. Pun intended.
Yes, we have chosen a name. It kinda come up over the course of a few days. We narrowed it down to two, and then I let John pick between those.
In November we will welcome:
Sophia Abigail
Yes, it will be ok to call her Sophie :) The first name actually came to us while watching a movie. One of the characters was Sophia, and we both thought it sounded pretty. The middle name came from our list of Biblical girl names we liked, and it flowed well with Sophia.
Sophia means wisdom. John has always prayed specifically for wisdom, so he thought it was a very fitting name.
Abigail means "joy of the father". Do I even need to say why this is so meaningful and appropriate? So sweet!
Also, Abigail in the Bible is described as being a beautiful and wise woman. She was the wife of a foolish husband, Nabal, who spurned David and would not share provisions with him. Abigail sent provisions herself to David, and later she became King David's wife. So in the bible she is associated with provision.
1 Samuel 25 if you want to read the whole story.
So, our little girl won't be named anything I ever thought of as a young single girl :) But it is something pretty and meaningful just the same :)
And here's how huge I am this week. I didn't weigh- and I'm thinking maybe I'll just save weigh-ins for my midwife visits.
And this week the puppy dogs joined me
I also have some general updating to do- but I'll save that for another post sometime this weekend.
I'm writing to ya'll from the comfort of my glider :) I also just got back from visiting a beautiful new momma friend and her little 4-day old nugget Lily. Lily attended her first girl's night since about 6 ladies came over to talk and eat. Lily slept through most of it :)
I learned a lesson this week: you should not eat Pizza Hut buffet when pregnant. Even if it sounds good. It is really bad for you and it will come back to haunt you. Little girl white also did not move around for awhile. I think I took up all her space with food. And then when I went to bed there wasn't enough space for both of them. Thank you pepperoni-induced heartburn.
I think I've also reached the point that I'm going to feel like I have a full bladder all the time. Because I feel full, and then produce very little. Graphic I know. It's really not the most fun feeling, to go to the bathroom and then immediately feel like you have to go again.
We took our hospital tour/orientation this week. I liked touring everything, but thought the class would be mostly about the hospital policies, what to expect in the routines, etc. Instead it was more about pregnancy do's and dont's, the classes and services they have available etc. But they did have life size weighted replicas of babies there- and it was fun to hold the 20 week one since that's what I'm close to. It's no wonder my bladder feels full. That little one is taking up a lot of space already.
I had a moment of surrealism when we toured the labor/delivery room. It kinda was like- whoa- this is where it all goes down. When I leave this room there will be another human being with me. In this room another living person will come out of me. Whoa. But I tried to talk myself down from any fears since I know fear will only hinder things when delivery time comes. We did get to see the big huge tub. Two of their rooms have them. You can't birth in them though- they are just for relaxation.
I should be really transparent- now that I can look back and laugh, and let you all know that I had a meltdown in the class. I rushed home from work, changed clothes, and we were off. I hadn't eaten for about 5.5 hours and I was starving. We stopped to get some food and they were taking so long we had to leave before we even ordered. Then I realized it was like 10 minutes later than the car clock said because John's car clock is slow and we can't change it. So we were running late. And then John needed directions to the hospital, he almost missed a turn, and I was really feeling impatient (I don't like being late to that kind of stuff) and very hungry. In fact I already felt tear-y in the car. We got to class and THANK THE LORD they had some snacks there. However, John was already upset with me due to my impatient and short attitude. I tried to explain I was really hungry and that was why I was being short. But since that was not his fault he didn't understand why I would be short with him.
Anyway, about ten minutes into class, after eating a snack, I wrote him a note telling him how bad I had been feeling because of not eating. And then I started crying. Right there in class. After I got food. Thankfully we were in the back and I managed to get to the bathroom- which seemed like it was a mile away- and have a big ol fashioned boo-hoo in private. I think only about 4 people saw me. But the janitor did ask if I was ok as I hauled booty past him into the bathrooms. All I could do was nod so as not to further the tears. Pretty embarrassing.
But anyway, since I titled this post with a bit of a lead-in, I better deliver. Pun intended.
Yes, we have chosen a name. It kinda come up over the course of a few days. We narrowed it down to two, and then I let John pick between those.
In November we will welcome:
Sophia Abigail
Yes, it will be ok to call her Sophie :) The first name actually came to us while watching a movie. One of the characters was Sophia, and we both thought it sounded pretty. The middle name came from our list of Biblical girl names we liked, and it flowed well with Sophia.
Sophia means wisdom. John has always prayed specifically for wisdom, so he thought it was a very fitting name.
Abigail means "joy of the father". Do I even need to say why this is so meaningful and appropriate? So sweet!
Also, Abigail in the Bible is described as being a beautiful and wise woman. She was the wife of a foolish husband, Nabal, who spurned David and would not share provisions with him. Abigail sent provisions herself to David, and later she became King David's wife. So in the bible she is associated with provision.
1 Samuel 25 if you want to read the whole story.
So, our little girl won't be named anything I ever thought of as a young single girl :) But it is something pretty and meaningful just the same :)
And here's how huge I am this week. I didn't weigh- and I'm thinking maybe I'll just save weigh-ins for my midwife visits.
 |
| How can you not love them? |
 |
| They never look happy in photos- but I swear they are! |
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
And she shall be called
Bacon.
I had a little conversation with my sweet boy dog Enrie the other day. Daddy was telling him that he was going to have a sister and what her name would be. Ernie decided that "kibble" would be a good name, because he loves food, including kibble, and he was going to love his sister. I asked him why, if he was going to name his sister after food, he would name her kibble. Why not some really great food- like steak?
At first he thought that was a great idea. But then he told me he was concerned someone would eat her if she was named steak. So maybe she should be called something still good, but a little less tempting. Like imitation bacon, IB for short. Ernie says he loves imitation bacon. But it's not something people would be as likely to gobble up.
I then pointed out that "bacon" was cute because indeed his sister is "bakin'" in my tummy. He then got on a rave about bacon and how good it is, and decided just plain "bacon" would do. I asked him if he was concerned that people might still be tempted to eat her because there are a LOT of bacon fans out there.
He was not concerned. Why?
Because steak was left on the table.
That's right folks, this is all a conversation with my dog.
My dogs, their voice actor my hubby, and little Bacon all wish you a good night.
I had a little conversation with my sweet boy dog Enrie the other day. Daddy was telling him that he was going to have a sister and what her name would be. Ernie decided that "kibble" would be a good name, because he loves food, including kibble, and he was going to love his sister. I asked him why, if he was going to name his sister after food, he would name her kibble. Why not some really great food- like steak?
At first he thought that was a great idea. But then he told me he was concerned someone would eat her if she was named steak. So maybe she should be called something still good, but a little less tempting. Like imitation bacon, IB for short. Ernie says he loves imitation bacon. But it's not something people would be as likely to gobble up.
I then pointed out that "bacon" was cute because indeed his sister is "bakin'" in my tummy. He then got on a rave about bacon and how good it is, and decided just plain "bacon" would do. I asked him if he was concerned that people might still be tempted to eat her because there are a LOT of bacon fans out there.
He was not concerned. Why?
Because steak was left on the table.
That's right folks, this is all a conversation with my dog.
My dogs, their voice actor my hubby, and little Bacon all wish you a good night.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Is this what Kate Gosselin feels like?
So I got the bright idea to try taking 4 dogs to the groomer, alone.
I was under directive to make sure all their nails were trimmed and filed, so as not to ruin clothes and flesh.
Usually we just trim them at home, but that does still leave the edges pretty sharp for awhile. We've tried the PediPaws and it causes such horrific behavior it's just not worth it.
I knew it was going to be an event as soon as I hooked all 4 canines to their leashes before leaving the house. There was a lot of pulling and tangling of leads.
Once I finally got to Petsmart, George, the dachshund who thinks he's a pit bull, immediately started barking like a rabid animal at every customer who passed by. And heaven forbid they saw another dog in the store. It's a good thing their collars fit tight enough to keep them from slipping out.
Well by the time I'd reached the back of the store where the grooming department is, I had already drawn a crowd. Three employees came to check on me, since my brood was making such a ruckus that I'm sure they thought a fight was going on.
I could see that there was another dog in the grooming area checkout with it's owner, and not wanting to try and control four dogs contained in a 4ft by 8ft area with another dog, I decided to wait outside the door until they were done. I struck up conversation with a mother and daughter waiting for their dog who was already being groomed. It helped me feel less awkward about the other shoppers nearby who were secretly watching the scene unfold. The conversation on my end went something like this: "These aren't all mine. NO! I would never have 4 dogs by choice. STOP IT! I should have never come here by myself, I'm crazy. QUIT BARKING!"
Then the nice store manager came to my rescue. He was extremely friendly and helpful. He did not act like anything was a problem. Instead he petted all the dogs and then offered to take them off my hands one at a time to go into the grooming area. Thankfully about 5 groomers were on staff that day and they each took a dog to quickly tame their Raptor-claws. This part went pretty smoothly with only a couple freak-outs on the dog's part.
Unfortunately since 3 of the 4 dogs had never been there before the checkout took longer than the service. Inputting rabies certificates, names, addresses and such. I was hoping to go to the register (at the very front of the store) and pay before they were done so I did not have to drag them through that. Well, that did not happen. In fact, I ended up waiting in the grooming area holding four dogs while trying to get my invoice, while they were intermittently barking and twisting their leads into something that resembled Medusa's hair. In fact at one point a lady opened the door to bring in her dog, and she was actually going to walk in, with my pack there barking like they were set to kill. Thankfully, the groomer asked her to please wait outside a few minutes.
So everything got straightened out and I headed to the front, 4 dogs in tow. Everyone in the store knew all my movements with my 4 personal alarms going off. I even braved it to stop on one aisle and pickup a bag of rawhides (for the sake of my sanity on the ride home). Even waiting in line at the cashier went fairly smoothly. They got petting and love from several other customers. They couldn't go far because by this time they'd tangled their leads into only having a few inches of slack each.
And after a treat for each of them from the cashier, I made it out the door. Sanity half-intact. I wish I had photos of it to show you. Or maybe an incriminating video. But of course, I had no extra hands. I did, however, take a picture of their leashes after the outing.
The ride home was thankfully fairly quiet. Everyone's jaws were busy working a rawhide.
And as I write this I realize George has chewed a hole in the electric blanket and severed the internal wires. Great. Lucky for him it was off. Unlucky for us it was off. It's a good thing he's cute and is now laying on me looking up with those pitiful eyes and saying "What Aunt Momma? I love you."
Turd.
I was under directive to make sure all their nails were trimmed and filed, so as not to ruin clothes and flesh.
Usually we just trim them at home, but that does still leave the edges pretty sharp for awhile. We've tried the PediPaws and it causes such horrific behavior it's just not worth it.
I knew it was going to be an event as soon as I hooked all 4 canines to their leashes before leaving the house. There was a lot of pulling and tangling of leads.
Once I finally got to Petsmart, George, the dachshund who thinks he's a pit bull, immediately started barking like a rabid animal at every customer who passed by. And heaven forbid they saw another dog in the store. It's a good thing their collars fit tight enough to keep them from slipping out.
Well by the time I'd reached the back of the store where the grooming department is, I had already drawn a crowd. Three employees came to check on me, since my brood was making such a ruckus that I'm sure they thought a fight was going on.
I could see that there was another dog in the grooming area checkout with it's owner, and not wanting to try and control four dogs contained in a 4ft by 8ft area with another dog, I decided to wait outside the door until they were done. I struck up conversation with a mother and daughter waiting for their dog who was already being groomed. It helped me feel less awkward about the other shoppers nearby who were secretly watching the scene unfold. The conversation on my end went something like this: "These aren't all mine. NO! I would never have 4 dogs by choice. STOP IT! I should have never come here by myself, I'm crazy. QUIT BARKING!"
Then the nice store manager came to my rescue. He was extremely friendly and helpful. He did not act like anything was a problem. Instead he petted all the dogs and then offered to take them off my hands one at a time to go into the grooming area. Thankfully about 5 groomers were on staff that day and they each took a dog to quickly tame their Raptor-claws. This part went pretty smoothly with only a couple freak-outs on the dog's part.
Unfortunately since 3 of the 4 dogs had never been there before the checkout took longer than the service. Inputting rabies certificates, names, addresses and such. I was hoping to go to the register (at the very front of the store) and pay before they were done so I did not have to drag them through that. Well, that did not happen. In fact, I ended up waiting in the grooming area holding four dogs while trying to get my invoice, while they were intermittently barking and twisting their leads into something that resembled Medusa's hair. In fact at one point a lady opened the door to bring in her dog, and she was actually going to walk in, with my pack there barking like they were set to kill. Thankfully, the groomer asked her to please wait outside a few minutes.
So everything got straightened out and I headed to the front, 4 dogs in tow. Everyone in the store knew all my movements with my 4 personal alarms going off. I even braved it to stop on one aisle and pickup a bag of rawhides (for the sake of my sanity on the ride home). Even waiting in line at the cashier went fairly smoothly. They got petting and love from several other customers. They couldn't go far because by this time they'd tangled their leads into only having a few inches of slack each.
And after a treat for each of them from the cashier, I made it out the door. Sanity half-intact. I wish I had photos of it to show you. Or maybe an incriminating video. But of course, I had no extra hands. I did, however, take a picture of their leashes after the outing.
And as I write this I realize George has chewed a hole in the electric blanket and severed the internal wires. Great. Lucky for him it was off. Unlucky for us it was off. It's a good thing he's cute and is now laying on me looking up with those pitiful eyes and saying "What Aunt Momma? I love you."
Turd.
Monday, November 7, 2011
"Weekend" update 11-05-11
I can't believe November is already here!
I'm really looking forward to Christmas decorating this year, and maybe in about 3 weeks I'll start!
We had a really great weekend filled with lots of "friend" time.
FRIDAY night we went out to dinner with our Sunday School class (the 20's group) and our pastor and his wife. We got to know a new couple better and enjoyed lots of conversation and laughs. It was kind of like our old young adults group, which I've really missed.
Then SATURDAY we did yard sale. I got some pretty good stuff for me and for a friend. I didn't photograph it yet though. Will try to get to that. My favorite finds were 2 new dresses for $2 each and a great new pair of boots for $3.
That evening we were invited over to watch the Bama/LSU game at a couple's house from our class. It was really great to start making relationships with people our age in our church. Neither one of us root for either team, but our friends are big Crimson Tide fans (as is most of our church) so we sported their colors. Don't tell my dad's side of the family. I was born in Baton Rouge and they are all die hard Tiger fans!
 |
| Got my hat for a quarter that day at a yard sale! :) |
SUNDAY afternoon we had a couple of our good friends over for some card games. They just told us this week they are expecting a baby in May! How exciting! We shared much conversation and food! We introduced them to the Pizazz Pizza Oven and they brought over homemade cookie dough.
Just before they got there I took this down from our dining room:
 | ||
| That's right, I hung a fly paper in our dining room. Soooo hillbilly. But I was sick of the flies! |
Well, I'd put it out the back porch. We put the dogs out in the backyard while we ran to the store to grab frozen pizzas. When we returned, I found the fly stick out in the yard covered in grass. And I found George's butt and leg covered in industrial strength adhesive and sod. Oh my, the trouble that dog can find! Even after a thorough scrubbing, his bum is still sticky. He's free of sod, but now has carpet fiber and anything else he comes across stuck to him. Not really sure what we are going to do. Can you put Goo Gone on a dog? Lol. I guess if we can't get it all off we'll wait it out, or shave him a bit.
The dogs are also excited for Christmas because they all get to wear these:
 |
| Can't you tell she loves it? |
Happy Monday and start of a three day workweek for me!
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Our October 31st...
Consisted of exactly one set of trick-or-treaters. So now there's 2 bags worth of lollipops in our house. But I'll be fine. I purposely bought candy I don't like. Lol.
So since it was low-key, I decided to make the dogs festive. They loved it. Sorta. Here's the proof:
So since it was low-key, I decided to make the dogs festive. They loved it. Sorta. Here's the proof:
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Weekend Update, Happy 4th!
I hope everyone had a lovely holiday and hopefully an extra day off work!
Friday I did the walk-through on mom's house. The superintendent was very friendly and helpful. There are only a few minor cosmetic things they need to fix. Then the blinds installer met me to take window measurements. Oh my word! This guy was a trip! VERY friendly, corny, enthusiastic and maybe a little too personal. It's hard to describe, but if this gives you any idea, when I got the paper with the measurements he faxed to Lowes, he had drawn a picture on the bottom. Fireworks, a firecracker, some flames and had written "Happy 4th Everyone". Just a little odd for a professional mock-up. Anyway. Friday later afternoon you can read about here.
Saturday we were able to go to a few yard sales. There usually aren't many on a holiday weekend and this one was no exception. I got a purse I like for $1. I got it from a home that I was shocked the owners let people in. Dirty, gross, yuck. Even walking up it was one of those houses you are afraid of what is on the other side of the door. Especially when as we got near the garage door that was slightly ajar, we hear whistling. But you couldn't see in the garage. Kinda creepy. Anyway, even though it's leather-like that puppy went through the washing machine!
The rest of Saturday was spent running errands. We also stopped into this local Mexican dive. Never once in the 22 years I've lived here have I considered going in this place. But, randomly a stranger told me about it in conversation months ago. Raving about how authentic and tasty it was. We happened to be near it at lunch time and John pulled in the parking lot saying "This is as close as we'll ever come, might as well". Well, the place was very authentic. As in run down, brightly colored but heavily askew hand-painted menu, no air conditioning save a fan and a portable AC which was NOT sufficient and lots of photos and things on the wall. The temperature in the very minuscule dining area was bearable, but I could feel the oppressive heat from the kitchen as we stood at the counter to order. It was literally like I'd stepped across the border. Anyway, the prices weren't particularly cheap, so I had an "El Pastor" (sp?) taco and John had the same plus a Carnitas taco. It was a pretty large portion so we were full. The flavor was also good, but not to "die for". Not sure we'll be running back, but now we don't have to wonder if we're missing some hidden Mexican food nirvana. We ran some errands to Lowes to check plantation blind prices and to WalMart to get that porch swing. In the end mom decided on green and that was the only color available anyway. Unless you want to pay $40 extra for red! I am so excited to get that setup and in use! Just a couple more weeks hopefully! After our long day out poor John got a pretty bad migraine. Like vomiting multiple times, sweating, miserable, sleeping it off for a few hours migraine. Poor hubby. So I took Ernie myself to get his shots. We tried out this mobile clinic that comes to Walgreens, Pet Caravan because they were about 1/2 the price for the Rabies vaccine. Well I pull up and they are just setting up the tables. I don't see another dog in sight and smile at my good fortune. Then they tell me the registration table is on the other side of the store, along with a "very long line". Oh no. I round the corner and the line is down the store all the way into the back parking lot. Literally 75-100 dogs. But I decided to stick it out. It was a very entertaining venue for people and pet watching. Had we been in WalMart I feel sure someone would be taking photos of some owners for People of WalMart. And it would've been very convenient if Cesar were there to "train humans and rehabilitate dogs". Especially for one anxious Lab mix. But my little Ernie did so very well. No barking, pulling or other inappropriate behaviors. Didn't flinch at the shot. Even sat on command. I was a proud "Dogma" (Dog momma) as my dad calls it. When I came home John was still napping, so I joined him for a bit. Nothing much else exciting to report for that day.
Sunday after church two members of the congregation had a short simple wedding ceremony. They are both gray-headed with their own grown children so it wasn't a huge affair. We were all invited to the bride's home after for heavy hors d'oeuvres and cake. It was very tasty. I spent the evening cleaning and packing (with John's help) in preparation for holiday dinner guests and for our move.
Monday we slept in! Lovely. I got up and made breakfast quiche (sans onions this time so hubby love it!) and did some more cleaning. Then I hauled the kiddos out to the dog park for some Independence Day fun.
But Eby did betray me! I hosed off her chin and belly as we were leaving because she was sandy from laying in the dirt. Then after she was wet she went and rolled in the sand! So angry. She got rinsed again. So take that Eby!
In the afternoon we had another pair of newlyweds over for a 4th of July meal- which meant grilling of course! We had grilled chicken, steak, baked beans, corn on the cob, shells and cheese, salad and watermelon. A quintessential summer meal. Then we drove a little ways to a neighboring town to watch fireworks over the river. Our seats were great! Unfortunately we had to endure listening to the nearby Karaoke booth for about 2 hours.
There are far too many people eager to share their lack of talent! But it is pretty funny. When it got dark we pulled out these-
and watched these-
and of course we had to get our "couple" shots
And now for a short work week! Yay!
Friday I did the walk-through on mom's house. The superintendent was very friendly and helpful. There are only a few minor cosmetic things they need to fix. Then the blinds installer met me to take window measurements. Oh my word! This guy was a trip! VERY friendly, corny, enthusiastic and maybe a little too personal. It's hard to describe, but if this gives you any idea, when I got the paper with the measurements he faxed to Lowes, he had drawn a picture on the bottom. Fireworks, a firecracker, some flames and had written "Happy 4th Everyone". Just a little odd for a professional mock-up. Anyway. Friday later afternoon you can read about here.
Saturday we were able to go to a few yard sales. There usually aren't many on a holiday weekend and this one was no exception. I got a purse I like for $1. I got it from a home that I was shocked the owners let people in. Dirty, gross, yuck. Even walking up it was one of those houses you are afraid of what is on the other side of the door. Especially when as we got near the garage door that was slightly ajar, we hear whistling. But you couldn't see in the garage. Kinda creepy. Anyway, even though it's leather-like that puppy went through the washing machine!
 |
| It's kind of cranberry/deep pink colored |
 |
| The shoes I got last week but forgot to photograph |
Sunday after church two members of the congregation had a short simple wedding ceremony. They are both gray-headed with their own grown children so it wasn't a huge affair. We were all invited to the bride's home after for heavy hors d'oeuvres and cake. It was very tasty. I spent the evening cleaning and packing (with John's help) in preparation for holiday dinner guests and for our move.
Monday we slept in! Lovely. I got up and made breakfast quiche (sans onions this time so hubby love it!) and did some more cleaning. Then I hauled the kiddos out to the dog park for some Independence Day fun.
 |
| Ernie running around |
 |
| And policing the bid dogs as usual |
 |
| The Mastiffs were there again. So huge! |
 |
| Eby was hot and mostly laid under the bench I was sitting on |
 |
| Are you done taking my picture yet mom? I wanna go play! |
 |
| I'm really glad this little white terrier |
 |
| rolling in the sand is not mine! |
In the afternoon we had another pair of newlyweds over for a 4th of July meal- which meant grilling of course! We had grilled chicken, steak, baked beans, corn on the cob, shells and cheese, salad and watermelon. A quintessential summer meal. Then we drove a little ways to a neighboring town to watch fireworks over the river. Our seats were great! Unfortunately we had to endure listening to the nearby Karaoke booth for about 2 hours.
There are far too many people eager to share their lack of talent! But it is pretty funny. When it got dark we pulled out these-
and of course we had to get our "couple" shots
And now for a short work week! Yay!
Monday, June 13, 2011
Weekend Update 06-11-11
Happy Monday all!
This weekend was lovely.
Friday after work I took a nap. Then the hubby and I headed off to the dog park with the kiddos again. It was fun and unexpected. What did we not except? Eby to get attacked my a full grown male Boxer. As we entered the park I could see a scuffle going on between this dog and another smaller dog. In that case the victim's owner took his dog and left. No blood or anything. Another owner told us the Boxer had initiated it. These things happen, so we were just careful not to let our dogs play around him (especially since Ernie barks ferociously at large dogs). Thankfully a well-behaved but playful Chocolate Lab showed up and he and the Boxer made friends. Well, Eby was standing near the shore (where they were playing) and all of the sudden the Boxer just pounces on her. She was not challenging or barking or anything. He was nipping at her neck and had her flipped on her back in the sand. John ran over and gave the assailant a swift kick in the ribs and he backed off as his owner was coming to claim him. Thankfully Eby was not really hurt. She had one microscopic scrape on her cheek but was just shaken. Poor thing was covered in sand and looking very pitiful. Someone at the park told the Boxer family they needed to leave, and they did. I think they did ask if Eby was ok. Anyway, all is well now.
After that we went on enjoying ourselves and even took the kids to dinner with us. We ate on the sidewalk of a downtown cafe (our favorite Greek place) and I have to admit I felt pretty cultured to have the poochies with us :) They actually did pretty well.
Saturday I did not go yard-saling because my surprise from hubby was that he bought me a ticket to a couponing seminar! I had been wanting to go but did not want to spend the money. I had a wonderful and informative time. It's a bit overwhelming, all the info. I don't know if I have the time and I know I don't have the space to be anywhere near "extreme", but it's a start. I am getting the hang of putting it into practice and started my grocery journal Sunday night.
For the afternoon and evening I took a wonderful relaxing head-clearing solitary trip to the library and beach. It was warm but with a nice breeze. I clocked 2.33 miles along the shoreline too! Hubby was having the guys over so I steered clear of the house until about 9pm.
Sunday we went to church and then to lunch with a friend. Had another short nap. Went to CVS. Worked on my coupon homework and on our budget. I've also started a new book that I'm very in to so I read that until much too late :)
This weekend was lovely.
Friday after work I took a nap. Then the hubby and I headed off to the dog park with the kiddos again. It was fun and unexpected. What did we not except? Eby to get attacked my a full grown male Boxer. As we entered the park I could see a scuffle going on between this dog and another smaller dog. In that case the victim's owner took his dog and left. No blood or anything. Another owner told us the Boxer had initiated it. These things happen, so we were just careful not to let our dogs play around him (especially since Ernie barks ferociously at large dogs). Thankfully a well-behaved but playful Chocolate Lab showed up and he and the Boxer made friends. Well, Eby was standing near the shore (where they were playing) and all of the sudden the Boxer just pounces on her. She was not challenging or barking or anything. He was nipping at her neck and had her flipped on her back in the sand. John ran over and gave the assailant a swift kick in the ribs and he backed off as his owner was coming to claim him. Thankfully Eby was not really hurt. She had one microscopic scrape on her cheek but was just shaken. Poor thing was covered in sand and looking very pitiful. Someone at the park told the Boxer family they needed to leave, and they did. I think they did ask if Eby was ok. Anyway, all is well now.
After that we went on enjoying ourselves and even took the kids to dinner with us. We ate on the sidewalk of a downtown cafe (our favorite Greek place) and I have to admit I felt pretty cultured to have the poochies with us :) They actually did pretty well.
 |
| Ernie the boss trying to harass a big dog :) A muzzled big dog! |
 |
| Joining in the fun |
 |
| Speed demon! |
 |
| Getting some love from dad |
 |
| Eby getting the sand wiped off her. She looks pitiful in this pic! |
|
| Resting with dad after. Looking so silly with that big tongue hanging out! |
 |
| Cuddles with dad |
Saturday I did not go yard-saling because my surprise from hubby was that he bought me a ticket to a couponing seminar! I had been wanting to go but did not want to spend the money. I had a wonderful and informative time. It's a bit overwhelming, all the info. I don't know if I have the time and I know I don't have the space to be anywhere near "extreme", but it's a start. I am getting the hang of putting it into practice and started my grocery journal Sunday night.
For the afternoon and evening I took a wonderful relaxing head-clearing solitary trip to the library and beach. It was warm but with a nice breeze. I clocked 2.33 miles along the shoreline too! Hubby was having the guys over so I steered clear of the house until about 9pm.
 | |
| Lovely walk at sunset |
 |
| This is that "messy beach hair" I was talking about before. And my top was strapless, just to be clear :) |
Sunday we went to church and then to lunch with a friend. Had another short nap. Went to CVS. Worked on my coupon homework and on our budget. I've also started a new book that I'm very in to so I read that until much too late :)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)