I got my hair cut today - I don't think I like it. It looks nothing like the pictures above that I showed the chick, she should be beaten with a hair brush. Give me a couple of days to play with it and I'll get back to you on how I feel.

I am no longer a virgin to the "Kosciusko Haircut".....nuff said.

Here are the birds that adorn my bird feeder quite regularly. There are about 5 or 6 others that stand below the feeder and they throw food at/to them. It's funny. Anyone know what kind of birds they are? I'm not up to snuff on my avian classification skills.

How to Save A Life...

Save my life, please. I want to go hear The Fray tonight, just found out they were playing about an hour away and tickets are still available. All of my friends, yes all 3 of you, have become responsible adults and that leaves me to be the lame ass with no priorities.

I have been thinking...last night triggered the thought process. Chip and I were checking out our friends blog furniturefootnotes and it's his business site. Chip thought it would be funny to tool around and post a comment with my name and a comment that I was drunk and some obscene return email address. Well he hit submit and really did it. We cracked up laughing and then decided to call ol' Jack and tell him what my husband did a) because it's his business site b) because my name was associated with it and that's not cool in Small Town Baptist Belt, MS that I was drunk, which I wasn't....yet. We got a good chuckle, but it was the beginning of a realization that maybe we are immature. Is that a problem? Are we just kids at heart or really don't have our priorites straight? But now that I can't find any friends on a whim like when I was in college to go out with I can't help but feel like I have lost my skills. I don't think I'm stuck in the late 90's early 00's....am I?

I do have things that I am looking forward to: Thursday, my friend Lisa and I are going to eat dinner and catch a movie in Jackson. I am excited for a change of pace and hanging out with a familar face! (No, I didn't plan on that rhyming.) Then, possibly this Sunday watching the Super Bowl in my fun stomping grounds, "O-Town," and hang out with my fun responsible friends in my fun old hood. Hubby and I have to discuss further but Yocona River Inn was mentioned in that conversation followed by, but we are poor. So, maybe I'm not too far fetched from feeling like I'm a college kid again. Broke and looking for fun 24-7. Mmmmm, Yocona.

Today is my Katie Lou's 7th birthday!!!

This morning we went on a nice walk and smelled every strand of grass and every leaf along the way. I remember when I first got my Goosey. All of her brothers and sisters, little tiny poofy cute little Lhasa's were running around one tackling the other, one chewing on lamp cords and being funny little pups. But then there was this one little girl that wasn't poofy because slobber from her siblings made her hair mat down and not fro up into a little snowball. She was the last out of the cage and came directly to my side and sat down by me on the floor. She didn't want to romp around, just wanted to be near me. I picked her up and placed her in front of me, but she waddled back to my right side and just sat there. I knew she was the one. I said - this is her, this is the one for me. Both my ex-boyfriend and the dog breeder were questioning why I didn't want the other dogs that were playful and little poofballs and not the sickly looking runt like the little white one to my side. I just knew it from the start she was with me until the end. We got in the car and she was scared to death - rode between my neck and the headrest the whole way home. I got her home and she pooped on my roommate and I gave her a bath. She looked just like a little rat when she was wet, still does. I blow dried her hair and she was a poofy little princess. She gained her self confidence and became the Queen of my world.
We've been through a lot me and my Lou, most things no one will ever know about. We've been through boyfriends, heartache, loss, college, my trips abroad, trips to TX, roadtrips down the Natchez Trace, grooming fiascos, movie marathons, long mornings laying in bed, marriage, moving, bringing other dogs into our routine, long hours by my side as I work, and way too many other things to forget.
Most people think I'm absurd for loving my dogs as I do, they are just dogs Rachel. Sorry, I just wish it were that easy to say. My dogs, especially my Lou has stood by me even if I was wrong or having a bad day, she's been there when I've had wonderful days and some of the most important times of my life. She's kissed away too many tears and has made me laugh too many times to just consider her a dog, she's the ultimate and knows me better than anyone. She knows when I'm upset and just need her to hold me and she knows when I'm happy and runs around excited for whatever that wonderful thing in my life may be! She's taught me many things like slowing down for just a minute and smelling that pretty spring flower, going for the gusto, responsibility, how to love, how to forgive. It's amazing my little girl has had such an impact....but she's just a dog? I beg to differ, she's my strength. As I sit here typing this blog I have grateful tears of happiness for having her and re living all she's helped me achieve...and you know what she's doing? She sensed my emotions, barked for me to pick her up and is now sitting up here on my desk licking my eyes. That's what it's all about. My happiness is her happiness and vice versa. We know that we can't live without each other, and to me - that makes each morning worth waking up and our love unconditional. Herz my Goose.

So my little one, I look forward to the many many more birthdays we have to celebrate and thank you for being you.

I made it!

Surgery went well and I am still recovering. I'm able to move about and shower and what not - I pushed it a little yesterday, but both hubby and I were getting a little stir crazy so decided to get out about town. I think I watched over 10 movies by Sunday and comprehended maybe 1/2 of them. Thank you pain meds :) The people at Baptist Hospital were wonderful. Chip and I tried to make jokes the first hour in the waiting room because we were both soo nervous all we could do was crack up at stupid thing...for example - there is a big screen TV that has a patient number and status that family members can keep track of their loved ones. I thought maybe they would post how things are going up there and Chip was like - "No, this is where you place bets on the patients that are going to make it - like horse racing" We were delirious and trying to make the best of this stressful situation. Cracking up tears rolling down the face laughter. So, they called me back and prepped me for surgery. My husband is "goobed out" to say he least at any hospital thing...for heaven sake he about flipped his lid walking by the gift shop - the teddy bears gave him the heebie jeebies he almost had a panic attack. So we went into the holding room where they put the IV in as he faced the wall and covered his ears. Once the IV was in my left arm and Chip would only touch the tip of my finger on my right hand - it's like he thought the needle was going to shoot out of my left arm and out my right hand fingertip? Then the anesthesiologist came in - Dr. McCloud - more like Dr. McHeaven...I was hoping I wouldn't say anything ridiculous to him once they gave me the "margarita" as he called it. Evidentially I did some some funny things because I had everyone cracking up in the OR before surgery. I remember one of them saying they were glad to have a happy drunk! Then they put the "oxygen" over my eye and the nurse cracked up and that's all I remember. Wheeling me into recovery was extremely funny. I finally came to and there was a cut out heart with glitter around the edges and in the middle it said "I love U" - I asked the guy in recovery if my husband made that for me - he said "Why, yes he did" I sat there for a minute and as serious as the day is long said, "you're silly, no he didn't he's not that creative." Then I asked if the digital thermometer box on the wall was where you put your dentures when you have surgery. So after a nice shot of morphine and the fire in the pit of my stomach was put out (nausea) they took me back to the holding area where my Chippy came. I asked him if I won the trifecta on the surgery races and he told me I did. So, long story short - I did say some silly things, but none of them too revealing, that I know of.
Chip said that everyone in the waiting area thought I was having some massive detailed surgery because nurses kept coming out and letting him know how I was doing every few minutes. Then when surgery was over - the surgeon came out and talked to him. He said everyone kept staring at him because no one was coming to talk to them about how their loved one was doing. Then yesterday I get a call from the Hospital asking how I was feeling. I was extremely impressed. I saw the doctor that referred me to the surgeon yesterday in my outting and told him what a great experience it was and appreciated Dr. Cummins and Baptist Hospital. I had a really good experience and will definitely write them a thank you note. I don't think people write enough thank you notes these days.

Chuckle.

I had to have a chuckle on msn.com today. There was an article on Rachael Ray and comfort foods like her mac and cheese. Then to the right of that same box where the article is located is the healthy section on finding the Right Diet for You ~ and keep that new years resolution. Mmmmm. I watched the Mac & Cheese video because my new years resolution is to stay positive and things like mac & cheese make me happy. Dare to be different - the losing weight thing is so cliche and I say that at least 10 times a year like it's some great big breaking news - I'm Going On A Diet! Why say it again on the first day of the year and lie to yourself? Plus I also found this article Own a Pooch? and since I have 3 dogs - does that mean I am 3 times more likely to be "pudgy"? My favorite part of the article is when it says,"pet owners tended to be middle-aged, have less education and more health-risk factors." Good thing they are talking about the Finnish or I may have taken offense to this article. (wink)
Now my dogs can join the worlds fight against obesity by taking a new drug to make them skinny. Slentrol Oh what a tangled web we weave.

Tomorrow is surgery day - so I probably won't post and if I do then it will be fun for all of us to read due to the large quantity of pain meds I plan on taking - Should be interesting. My fear is not of the surgery itself, but what I am going to say to people when I am not fully aware of the words comming out of my mouth. I do have secrets and I hope they don't become exposed!

Preparing for Friday

Yesterday I went to Jackson to do my pre-admission stuff for my surgery Friday. It really didn't take as long as I thought it would and everyone was so nice there at Baptist. The nurse that took my blood had been there 27 years and she did not look a day older than 30 and had a 31 year old daughter. How did she get such great genes? I needed to know her secret, but she didn't have one. The questionnaire lady was really nice too, she wasn't pushy nor interrogating about medical and family history. She got the facts she needed, answered the questions I had and then sent me to the financial lady. The financial lady was so nice and let me know the most I would have to come out of pocket and she had the most beautiful complexion. I swear, I know I keep going on and on about these women's appearance, but it must have something to do with stress and lack there of? They were so easy going and happy and ready to help me in anything I needed. It really says a lot to me, their customer service is exceptional. Even the receptionists were joking with me and making me feel welcome. I hope my surgery experience is just as great as the pre-admission.
After the I left the hospital I went to Barnes & Noble and saw the Mississippi Magazine Bridal edition. I called Susan to tell her how beautiful her and D's page was, read up on a lot of books, couldn't decide which one I wanted so I left and went to Huntington's Grill. I figured, what the heck - why go home and sit and watch TV. CSI doesn't come on A&E until 10 or 11 anyway. :)
I like going to places and meeting random people. I met the Head Master of a local private school and we talked for a while. He wants to implement an International Program and we talked about foreign countries, the kids, the experiences. It was a nice intellectual conversation. One that none of my 3 dogs can carry on with me. After a glass of wine or two I decided - they took blood from me and I hadn't eaten, so I probably needed to not order another glass and head back to the Land of Koz. On the way home I checked back in with my friend Amy, she had a hysterectomy yesterday (she's 26). She was on some good pain meds and doing well. Then my Mere called me, she was in Houston doing a charity thing for the Rodeo. She's Miss. Do Everything - I admire her and her will. She's definitely a giver. And ALWAYS knows how to crack me up and make me feel better. That's what friendship is all about. We are definitely "soul mates" as she put it in the beautiful toast she gave at my rehearsal dinner. Life wouldn't be good if it weren't for people like that in your life. Everyone needs them. tear....tear...

This whole not negative thing.

Ok, so I know I just posted like 30 minutes ago about my new found attitude. But you know what, there are just somethings that you can be pissed about. Like trying to make your blogspot not look like blah white paper and then deleting all of your friends blogs under links. So, if you are reading this and you are not under my links...please post a comment and give me your site so I can repost it! Sorry! I did end up finding some from others peoples site I knew. Thanks peeps!

Happy New Year!

So, my new years resolution is still the same ol' same ol' cliche stuff like - lose weight, save more money, yadda yadda yadda - but this year I am adding something new. So many changes have happened in my life this past year - some good some bad, but it has really changed me. I'm not saying this is for the best either. So, my new new years resolution is to change my negative attitude. I have a friend that is such a Debbie Downer (like that Saturday Night Live skit) and I feel like I have turned into her and I really am not happy with it. I know how my attitude effects others and I don't want to be "that person". Now just because I am working on this doesn't mean I remember to stick by it 24-7. It's my resolution - I am trying to resolve this issue within me, so just bare with me. :)

I went to Alabama the week after Christmas and found my hubby an apartment. It's a nice little one bedroom - he calls it his bachelor pad. He called me last night (his first night there) and we were kind of sad that it became a reality he was there for real. I guess staying in a hotel for 3 months doesn't really feel like a place to live.

This year will bring a lot of hurdles to jump and obstacles to cross, but that is why my new improved attitude will help me though it. Lord, just give me the strength. This new year will be a challenge for me in every aspect.

As for the losing weight. I am in 2 weddings - one in October of this year and one in March of next year. So I have about 10 months to shape my ass up. I say as I just ate 3 of Paula Dean's Georgia Cookies, can't find the recipe online to post, but her new cookbook - a must have.

HAA!! I almost forgot the funniest thing over the holidays. We had a Christmas party the Saturday before Christmas and had a great turn out. A lot of fun people. To sum things up ...the person that never drinks threw up all over my back patio and the person that drinks often threw up all over the side of my house. I guess that makes for a good party? And I would have been throwing up all over if I'd of had to clean up the vom, but my dear friend Tasha gets the medal of honor for hosing that nastiness down. I thank you Tasha with all of my heart - really - there is no way I could do it for you. Just a little take away from the party - according to drunkard #1 (no names mentioned for the safety of the individual) we have brought back the words "Holmes" and "Boss". Here is an example on how to use these words in the same sentence. You have called your local game warden at 11:30 pm to find out the limit on the hooded meganders (aka. flying nuns) and you have to leave a message. "Hey Holmes, this is drunkard #1. If you could give me a call back that would be really Boss. Thank you." So kids, that is your lesson of the day. Please use your new vocabulary every chance you get - that would be really "boss".

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Just want all of my readers (all 2 of you) to have a Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year! No big plans. I have off Friday the 22nd to January 1st. We are having a Christmas party at the new digs Saturday night and then Sunday and Monday Christmas with the In-Laws. Tuesday thru Thursday I'll be in Alabama looking for Chip a place to lay his weary head. Then come home so he can go to "Mountain Man" for the weekend - his friends deer camp where they hunt, drink beer, play cards and don't shave for 3 days.

I'm a bad daughter - I am not going to the homeland during the holidays a) I'm tired b) it's a hustle and bustle, then just turn around and fly back - the type of trip you need a vacation from your vacation. c) I want to go to Alabama to see what my husbands alternate life is like.
I think, I hope that my family understands.

I'm looking for New Year's Eve trouble (since I'm not a mountain man), so let me know what you have up your sleeve!? I did receive an invite from an old friend to a party, but I'm not sure that's what I'm going to do. It needs to be something inexpensive, I have property taxes due in January. Man I am such an old Mamaw. lol

Ta Da! It's me, I'm here - Not Lost!

Wow, I haven't posted anything in a month. It's not like I've been busy, or haven't thought about it. I have no excuse. I live in my nutshell and focus on the routine. Though, I did break out of my shell Tuesday night. I went to the Golden Moon Luna Bar - the golden ball at the top of the building in Philadelphia, MS. It was fun, met some funny people. Julie the bartender was a fun lady. She was from Chicago and you could tell she likes what she does. Then I met Billy Jack the Mega Touch and Pool Table sales guy. I met Charlie the retiree that took great interest in what I do for a living. Then there was Jim, the ass that was soo cocky that even my bitchyness couldn't make him budge. Jim is the guy that has "The Tribes" 401-K. The tribe is the casino - it's an Indian reservation and the reason why there is a casino there without being on water. After Jim told me what he did, I being polite and trying to find a common ground with this stranger, informed him my husband was a broker. This was when things got deep and his arrogance shined. I found his boastful attitude quite amusing - it gave me the opportunity to put on my sarcastic smart ass face, which I haven't had the chance to do in a while. Once I let him know I was not impressed nor taken back with his endeavors he said, "Rachel, I like you, you're witty. Have you eaten dinner?" (Well actually he called it supper, which gets on my nerves anyway) I informed Jim I had not eaten dinner. He invited me to go to dinner with him, which I gracefully declined, turned to Billy Jack to my left and rolled my eyes, as he laughed uncontrollably. If I would have had to spend 10 more minutes around Jim the 401-K guy I may have thrown him off the top of the golden ball. I told my husband about Jim and he said, you should have taken him up on dinner, and made him take you to Phillip M's (this fine restaurant we like to eat at, but can't always afford to do so) . The night was so much fun though - I cut up, drank, met new people and got to be a bitch all in the same night. That is rare! I felt like the me I know. I was feeling sort of pathetic going there by myself, but am certainly glad I did. I needed that get away, solo or not!

Next week I get to go to Oxford. I always look forward to seeing all of my friends. There is a party there Tuesday night, but I wasn't going to go to until Thursday for my company Christmas party. If I can find someone to watch my 4 legged monsters I may can do both! That would be a treat. I'm sort of excited about next week. I get to go to Oxford see everyone, see Susan and Daniel's new house, then come home Friday because my friend Juli B. is having a party that night and then our friend from Nashville is coming to town and decided she was having a party at our house Saturday night. So, I will literally have to pencil everyone in this next week...have your people call my people - we can do lunch. (ha, one week of fun things to do has made me a snob)

I made a sell

Thank you Jesus for taking my negotiating skills that I have been using with you here lately and making them work with this one lone appraiser. I will get the knack sooner or later. Hopefully sooner.

I also haven't really been on top of my game until about 3 pm today because I was awaiting a call back from the doctors office. I haven't said anything, but now I feel it appropriate since the worst case scenario is out of the picture. I have a knot on my chest and it has progressively gotten larger and started hurting. My doctor suggested I go see a surgeon, which is what I did yesterday. Everything came back negative - which is great! It's so strange what the mind does to you. I knew there has been a knot there for a while - and had it checked out back in 2003, but now that it is the size of a quarter and hurts I put off getting it checked (smart right?). I was afraid of the worst so therefore avoided it. I always thought it was scar tissue from the wreck I had back in college - but when it started hurting and growing - I got concerned. Then once my doctor suggested I see a surgeon specialist I have been physically and emotionally spent. Then as I wait for the doctor to come in - they put me in a room with pamphlets on breast cancer to read with charts and graphs. I freaked....it became a reality - a morbid reality. The doctor came in and she was concerned so ordered the mammogram and the ultra-sound that day. I literally drove home by myself thinking the worst and wondering what songs should be at my funeral. I'm a sick o - I know. (for those sick o's wondering which song I picked - Garth Brooks, The Dance, came on - I felt it most appropriate) Now, since the results came back negative, I Dr. Rachel think that it's either a Lipoma or possibly a lymph node that is swollen - which can be caused by anything from a sore throat to the deodorant I use. So, as weird as that sounds - it's good news. I go back next week to find out the next course of action. I feel that they will probably remove the mass - that way it will be a smaller scar if it gets bigger down the road and plus it will give me a piece of mind knowing it's not there and a constant reminder when it has its bouts of pain. Still keep me in your prayers because we haven't gotten to the bottom of the problem, but at least we know it's not breast cancer. This is what I have been negotiating with God about (per the first paragraph).

Speaking of random things - there has been a beeping in my house all day about every 3-4 minutes. I have walked this house trying to figure out what the hell beeps. All of the portable phones are on their chargers, the microwave nor toaster oven are on, it's not a beep like the smoke detector. What else could it be? Nuts, driving me nuts.

Tomorrow night I am going to something someone invited me to do at the church. It's called a "Ladies Night Out" - yeah right...My Oxford girls are like - hellz yeah! Yes, it's ladies night, oh what a night. No, No ladies - this is the Baptist church. There will be no 2 for 1 or 1/2 price cover for this cameo I shall make. Random thought, I haven't scrapbooked lately. You know, that was my "thing" when I moved here. I scrapbooked and met nice people. Maybe I have been shunned from that group since I haven't been invited to any parties? Maybe I am the lame one? No body better comment that statement......

Have you missed me?

I sure have missed myself. Too much going on to know which way is up or down. I had a good weekend with my Chippy. He hadn't been to Koz in 2 weeks. The dogs were so excited to see him they couldn't control themselves. Katie sat in his lap for the longest time about an inch from his face...just staring at him...then giving him kisses. It's so nice to have that unconditional love, a love that no matter how long you are gone or how tired or sad or annoyed you are - there are your 3 babies that love you no matter what and share every emotion with you. That's what it's all about - sometimes they remind me to slow down and literally stop to smell the flowers or examine a leaf that has just fallen from the tree. Such humble little beings they are. We were all so tired last night that we piled in the bed and crashed. I woke up at about 6 to the alarm with everyone (including myself) in the same spot. After hitting the snooze button 3 times we all decided that maybe we should move.

Today is Tuesday and I feel like I'm on day 489276 of a 5 day week. I have been physically and emotionally exhausted for about 6 days, that I can recall. I haven't gotten my groove for the new job yet, I need to just jump in head first but I'm an organizer. I have to plan, organize, then execute. I just haven't moved that far ahead yet. It will come, I pray it will come. Yesterday I organized all the people I have to call this week by county and then ran through the list to see if we even have data in their areas. Then checked on the phone situation, then learned the network streaming thing.

This morning I had a doctors appointment in Jackson so I wasn't productive on the work scene. I did however become very comfortable with a handful of people I met today- they touched my boobs. Uhhh, wait, that didn't come out right - but it's true. As Daniels grandmother, Boosha (sp?) would say "Don't a leta thea men toucha da boobies" - that cracks me up. But I can definitely put one dreaded rumor to rest for all of my young friends - a mamogram does not hurt. It is nothing I'd like to do everyday, but it doesn't hurt. There was a pain chart I stared at while they mashed my boob 1..(doesn't hurt)..2...(annoying)...3...(uncomfortable)...4 etc. all the way to 10. On that scale - I would say a definite 2. I met an old lady while we waited in our front opening gowns, she was nice. To break the uncomfortable silence between the two of us, I was like..."so, I take it we are both here for the same reason?" (I felt like it was a pick up line...so, you come here often?) She said, "Oh yes dear, I come every year." I said "wow, that's great - I'm new." Then we went back to watching the Young and the Restless. She was nice. Great lady, with pretty fingernails.

It's election day and my dad's campaign will finally come to an end. He said that since Texas has a write in vote for Congress or Senate (I can't remember which) that he probably won't know the results until tomorrow. Good Luck to my Pop's he has worked really hard. Like he said, it doesn't matter if it's your 1st time running for office or your 8th time - it doesn't get any easier. Even though he did say he liked watching the first year candidates freak out every now and then or throw a hissy when they find out someone took down one of their campaign signs. As sick as it sounds I sometimes miss the younger days of politics. I may have been 9 years old, but I promise you I knew more about that county than half the elected officials. People don't pay attention to what they say when kids are around, sure they mind their language, but when talking grown up stuff they think we don't have a clue. I'm a sponge people, I absorb it and file it away. I still do that around this small town. I don't know many people, so people feel it ok to talk about someone knowing I don't know who they are talking about. But I file it away and have had the opportunity to meet some of the people others were speaking of. Gotta be on top of your game folks, that's how you gotta roll. Anyway, my fondest memory of my dad's campaign trail was when it was my 10th birthday - oddly enough my birthday falls on March 10th, the time that primary elections are usually held. So, it's the "Big Party" all in one - if my dad wins - great! Roll down the banner that says "Congratulations!" and if he doesn't - it's ok, we still have the banner that his campaign manager had made special for my day of birth "Happy Birthday Rachael" - for those of you that don't know what is wrong with that banner, you aren't my friend. Dad won, I had a birthday and it was great...I got to stay up late and drink Shirley Temples! Fun times, Fun times. I sometimes wonder if my husband will ever go into politics - well if so, he married the right woman. And you wonder how I always remember peoples names? It's a learned gift my dear friends one I deserve and am proud of.

Well I gotta go call Susan to see if she and D closed on the hizzy. I'm jealous. Peace Out.

Sorry I haven't posted in a while. Things have been really weird here lately with Dogs, Travels, Health, Life, you know - the usual.

Foster broke a nail and you would have thought he had head trauma. Took him to the vet and he weighs 112 lbs. That is ridiculous. We talked about Foxy Mama's obesity not too long ago, but this is outrageous - I feel like the worst parent. We are officially cutting back on treats and trying to start a walking regimen. I wish I had skills like thejanii and could raise twins, three dogs, a husband, be Martha Stewart and run 12 miles on a whim.

On a more realistic note...
We had a wonderful time in Nashville last weekend. Elizabeth "Ed" and Mike got married. It was so pretty and so quaint. Totally them. Good to see friends and be able to cut up, catch up, and drink up! I will post pictures as soon as Lyndsay sends them to me. The highlight of the night, besides the nuptials, was Al's rendition of David Allen Coe's "You don't have to call me Darlin" infront of every attendee at the wedding. We have legally changed his name to Fred Allen Coe (his real name is Fred Allen - oh the irony.)

Franklin, TN - where the wedding was, is extremely beautiful. I told Chip I wanted to move there while he supports my country music singing career - I will be known as Rachel Lynn, The Lawyer's Daughter, which is not to be confused with Loretta Lynn, the Coal Miners Daughter. I'm hoping to have my own Dude Ranch one day with a home cooking diner off the Music City Highway as well.

On a different note, I will be going to Oxford this Thursday and Friday. Can't wait to see everyone, it's been a while. I'm telling all to pencil me in for drinks Thursday- we will be at Susan's house. Sorry Susan, but it's the last hoo-rah at the ghetto! Don't' cry.

Starting tomorrow, I will be in the Inside Sales department. I'm not going to comment much about this, but just keep me in your prayers. I'm up for the challenge.

Yesterday I went to the doctor for my poison ivy. Yes, I have poison ivy. It wasn't that bad - just on my right thigh. Then when you sleep on your side at night, it must rub onto the left thigh. Then when you touch it - it moves to your arm pit or your boob or where I drew the line - my face. It sort of looks like I have a hickey on my neck too. Real cute huh? It is trash. So, I went to my lovely Dr. Brady and his nurse gave me a shot in my bootie and gave me permission to finally shave my legs come this afternoon. Lucky Chip, who by the way is not allergic to poison ivy. Punk.

Today is Halloween and it doesn't feel like it. I feel so out of the loop, I mean I know that Reese Witherspoon and Ryan Phillippe are split up, but I didn't know that the time changed on Sunday. Where are my priorities? I do watch the news, but I guess I get lost in the Memphis News Murmur - what I mean by that is that if I can understand the Eye Witnesses, then I get the news. This is few and far between. We have cable too, but Jackson news isn't that great either. I read MSN for my news, but it usually is about Paul McCartney's divorce or John Mayer's new look, the Letterman O'Reilly feud or 8 Email Errors to Avoid. You know - the REALLY important stuff.

Tonight I may take the Lou for a cameo at the inlaw's Halloween Bash. The theme is It's The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown. Great Pumpkin Maybe I should dress Foster up like a World War I Flying Ace, he'd be a good sport about it? That could be simple, to the theme, and funny.

I really want to type something fun and interesting, but I am so tired. My mom and Aunt came to Mississippi this past week to help decorate the new house. WOW! It looks so good -I will post pictures as soon as I figure out what is wrong with my camera. I need to get some shut eye though. I am spent and so is my checkbook...night night.

I did buy my Chippy a 'happy' early Merry Christmas. Shhhh....it's a semi-secret until he gets home tomorrow.

Pediatrician vs. Veterinarian

Round 2. Medical care is really high on my list in my children's life. Most of you know the battles I have been through this past year with the move in finding the perfect clinic and doctors for my babies. I struggled and fought and questioned a lot of ethics and practices yet still none of them have met my standards and the high quality of treatment we received while in Oxford, today we have tried yet another facility.

If you read the paragraph above it sounds like I have struggled with finding the perfect pediatrician - well if you have 2 legged babies that would be so, but I am blessed with the 4 legged kind and am speaking of their veterinary care.

I am always on pins and needles and intimidate some with my questions when searching for the veterinarian that can match the healthcare my pups need. The clinics I have encountered are far from what I am accustomed to. Today was a step in the right direction. The vet I met was extremely nice and willing to answer any of the questions I had with an open heart and mind. I didn't feel that there was any lack of experience nor lack of ignorance when it came to his profession. I sincerely felt like he took the time to get to know me and Foxy Mama as she went in for her annual shots. We spoke of his practice and treatments he used and I politely questioned his reasoning for giving the IMRAB 3 even though she had it last year. IMRAB 3 is the rabies shot that is given and is good for 3 years. It doesn't have to be given every year and most all vets use this vaccination yearly which isn't necessary. I have found that the past 2 vets reasoning is because not all pet parents come back every year for their pets annuals, so most clients aren't educated, but know that rabies shots are required - therefore come back again every year. Don't get me wrong, the other shots are necessary yearly, but if given the IMRAB 3 the rabies is only necessary every 3rd year. So now that you know probably more than you wanted to...

All in all I was pleased with the vet. We talked about F.M. and the fact that she was over weight, even though that information wasn't offered - I asked. F.M. fits in so well with this family - we are all obese and can benefit from a healthy diet and exercise. We also talked about where I was from and how I got here - like most small towns go, he knew my husband well. It was interesting to me to find out he thought that F.M was not only part Red Healer and Chow, but possibly a retriever of some sort. That was neat. F.M. got a manicure and a pedicure and Foster helps me keep her ears cleaned out - so all went well, a great check up.

After I retire or become independently wealthy I have a new job idea that would be fun and interesting. I'd like to become a consultant for vet clinics. After being an office manager for a wonderful organized clinic, I feel that my knowledge could be utilized in other clinics. It's extremely important that the receptionist realize that they give off the first impression of the clinic. They are the first face customers see, they are the attitude that clients associate with whether it be in person or over the phone. Another factor is appearance - vet offices aren't always the best smelling places, it takes hard work and dedication to keep the environment healthy and clean and smelling good for not only the pets but the parents and the workers too. Running a clinic is a demanding job and takes great organization skills and requires attention to detail. Educating the front desk and vet techs is dire - they need to be aware of medicines, appointments, pet needs and great with people. When working for a vet you come across many calibers of people. My husband, who was selling cars at the time, asked me if we get a lot of disgruntled clients and the answer to that is not really. You have concerned clients and that is different. The people that come to a vet usually have the best interests of their pet in mind. It doesn't always matter the cost of the care because they want what is best for their family member. To some the cost does matter and can be a sensitive subject, but it is the responsibility of the vet and sometimes the receptionist to educate the owner. Another aspect that was clearly an issue today at the new found clinic was the atmosphere. You want a warm welcoming feel - a place that isn't gloomy and out of date. The appearance of the clinic is also a reflection of them. Out of date pictures, medical paraphenalia, equipment, wallpaper, and uniforms are just as important too.

Wow, how boring am I? Animals are my passion and any thing I can do to help in any way is important to me. Now - here is the question I have for you....how should I pursue this new consultant idea?

"Kicking the Cat"

I'd never heard this term "Kicking the Cat" until a couple of years ago, but we are effected by it every day! "Kicking the Cat" is like Paying it Forward, but in a negative way. For example, today, as I went through Wal-Mart gathering my necessities (that aren't necessities) I went to the paint department to get primer to put onto the blue walls -- see yesterdays picture for visual. I waited, and waited and finally after a good 7 minutes of pretending I knew in my head what I needed, I went to the helper in the gardening section to call someone to the paint department. After another good 10 minutes and a second call over the intercom this sour puss lady comes and I approach her to ask for her expertise, you would have thought I was the dumbest person that walked the face of the earth or at least I was treated that way, as she spoke down to me for asking about the differences in the primers and what would best fit my needs. After hopefully getting what I needed I asked her if she could shake it up in the machine for me. During the awkward 4 minutes that took she kept mumbling something under her breath and I politely asked, "Pardon Me, I'm sorry I couldn't hear you." And she acted like oh it was nothing and proceeded to do it again. By that time my primer was shaken and so was I. She handed me the can and I said, and my mother would be proud, "I hope you have a wonderful day" - Momma always said - "Kill them with Kindness" and that is what I was doing. She was obviously pissed at something and I wasn't going to let her kick my cat! So, after strolling away from that 20 minute procedure I rolled on up to the check out lady. The looks and the silent treatment I got from her was as if I had eaten her first born. I didn't say anything, but quickly checked out and walked towards the exit. Well when you have items not in bags, which I did, the door lady always checks your receipt. She seemed nice so I asked her what was wrong with everyone in the store today? Was there a company meeting? - they seemed like something was really aggravating them and seemingly took it out on the customers. She said that they found out that they have to wear uniforms and people are upset about it. Well that explained it, but really now, is it THAT big of a deal to where it has to affect everyone in the store that walks in?
So the moral of the story is when you know someone is trying to kick your cat (not to be confused with kicking you in the cat - because then you can get mad) try to be aware and don't let it ruin your day as well as everyone you come in contact with.

Who said Wallpaper was pretty?

When my husband and I first started looking at houses, over a year ago, we thought about so many different things we could do. We could buy a fixer-upper or build or find something to make ours with a little things here and there. Well we found the perfect house for us and are thrilled. It is in a subdivision, yet in the country. It is an open floor plan, but allows for privacy. It's 8 years old but looks brand new. There are a couple of things we need to do like paint the "blue room" and take down the glow in the dark rocket ship border and stars on the ceiling. Thank goodness we didn't buy a fixer-upper because I am so tired just from removing that stupid border. (This is a pic of the room before we moved in - you get the idea.) I don't know what I'd do if I had a whole house to do something to. So, note to self and others when looking for a new house - make sure that there isn't any wallpaper or silly stars on the ceiling with dotted glow in the dark paint to make the pretty comet effect. If there is, put in the contract that it must be removed or figure in how much it would cost to have someone fix it and deduct it from the sale price. It sounds fun to have a house to fix up, but trust me - unless you are full of energy and can devote an unGodly amount of time to it...don't do it. At least the wallpaper in the master bathroom is decent and I can learn to live with the wallpaper in the other bathroom after this mini experience.

Adios

So, I'm out of the ol' hell hole on West Haven Drive aka. Gasoline Alley. What a great thing. You know, as I was moving boxes out to the car I did not shed a tear - no sir, because I, as well as all the other neighborhood hoodlums, couldn't help but watch as 5 sheriff cars chased an old lady flying down our street. Yes, an old fashioned car chase - that inevitably would only come to an end on WestHaven Drive. I joined the one tooth wonders in a curious stare as they took a high 60 year old lady away in their shiny police cars. I will not miss the hustle and bustle of that street, nor will I miss Wayne Lee peeing in his front yard or the neighbor kids popping fireworks during the day as I try to work to pay to put food on their table and give them the medical needs that they deserve. Nope, I surely won't miss it.

I went over there last night to grab something I needed - and screamed like a little girl because WHAT IS THAT JUMPING OUT OF THE SINK? A frog? No, that would be a mouse. No tears shed here, pure happiness my friends - pure happiness. Most people when moving would say - oh, honey - remember the times we had at that house? My husband and I can only sit back and laugh. Oh what a tangled web we weave.

I still have a couple of items to grab from over there and then clean her up to give a new family the adventures of West Haven. That way they too can have the experiences and not shed a tear when they come to the fork in the road and pass it onto another family.

~Good luck and farewell Gasoline Alley...you will be thought of, but not missed.

Anyone want to buy a house? Nice neighborhood good friendly neighbors...really cheap!

Slim Fast vs. Baby Formula

So, I'm talking care of my 8 month old niece and it's time for her to eat. I get out the bottle, mix the 8 oz of fluid and then open the can of formula to find a nice handy scooper and put in the 1 to 2 ratio it calls for and it dawns on me...this is way too familiar and extremely second nature. I've done this before, but where - I'm not a mom. Then it dawned on me, I may not be a mom, but I am someone that has been on a diet or two...or three...you get the point. Somehow all these years we have thought - Slim Fast, Oh so nifty and convenient what a great idea, but not any more sister! The truth of the matter (from my point of view) is a mom that was just feeding her new born baby and said - hey, how great and easy making this bottle thing for the baby is - nice scoop, just add water, shake it up and voila! I sure wish I could have a meal on the run like that and lose a few of the extra pounds I put on while gestating. There ya go - that is how Slim Fast was born.