How long after your dog rains down destruction can you chastise him? Our somewhat crazy ass dog Zeus destroyed the carpeting in front of my daughter’s bedroom door. And when I say “destroyed”, I mean ripped it to shreds. He tore it into pieces, including the matting and I’m sure he would have torn up the sub-flooring too if his nails had been strong enough. (Note to self: cut dog’s toe nails to the quick before leaving on vacation)
While we were away my daughter was babysitting both dogs. Hers is the prissy little Chihuahua who hates my husband and ours is a lab/chow mix who’s afraid of his own shadow. The dogs aren’t used to being left alone for long periods of time anymore since I was laid off a year ago and stay home most of the time now. My daughter however works 8-5. She put her dog, Dolce, inside her crate (where she stays when we’re not home) and closed her bedroom door. She left our bedroom door open so Zeus could go lay either on his bed or ours.
Obviously, he didn’t want to lie down. Being separated from Dolce for nine hours must have been too much for him, so in order to get to her he figured he’d just dig his way under the door and into her room. Have to give him credit for effort. There’s no more carpet blocking the door. A few more hours and he probably would have eaten the door itself. Luckily my daughter came home before he could begin his teeth action.
We now have options. Get the carpet patched...we know a guy who does this. Cut away the torn up part...and cover it with a throw rug. Replace it with a wood threshold...four feet wide. I think we’re going to opt for the wood. He WILL be alone in the house again and Lord knows I don’t want to feel like killing him, should he annihilate repaired carpeting. Using throw rugs seems so “grandma-ish” (I remember round area rugs in front of doors in old people’s homes). He may scratch the hell out of the wood, but Pergo is pretty sturdy and he hates the wood floors downstairs, so hopefully he’ll be so terrorized by the slippery surface he’ll leave the area alone.
Well a person can dream can’t they?
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
GOING UNDER THE KNIFE
Surgery...I hate even the sound of that word. However I'm about to experience this thrilling event for the first time and I am not afraid to say that I'm nervous.
On our way back from our great vacation this past week, I started having chest pains about 4 hours from home. They got so bad that we stopped at an emergency room in Florence, SC to have me checked out. It wasn't my heart...thank God. However, the attending physician seemed to think it was possibly my gall bladder and suggested I go see my doctor on Monday. I went...was scheduled for an ultra-sound Tuesday and today I go see a surgeon. I have gall stones. What the hell? I'm a healthy eater, I watch my weight...I try to live a good life...and I get this crap.
A lot of my friends have told me they've had their gall bladders removed and it's no big deal...but this being the first time I've ever had a surgical procedure...it's kind of a big deal to me. I could care less about scaring. I'm dreading the pain afterward and the healing time. I hate not being 100%. Besides I had a goal of dying with all my organs and teeth in place. Dang gall bladder just shattered that dream.
I'm hoping the surgeon will be able to put my mind at ease about everything that's about to happen. I'll need lots of drugs, so I'm going to be sure he has a good supply handy!
It's a week of first. First cruise...topped by first surgery. Could I have my first lottery winning next please?
On our way back from our great vacation this past week, I started having chest pains about 4 hours from home. They got so bad that we stopped at an emergency room in Florence, SC to have me checked out. It wasn't my heart...thank God. However, the attending physician seemed to think it was possibly my gall bladder and suggested I go see my doctor on Monday. I went...was scheduled for an ultra-sound Tuesday and today I go see a surgeon. I have gall stones. What the hell? I'm a healthy eater, I watch my weight...I try to live a good life...and I get this crap.
A lot of my friends have told me they've had their gall bladders removed and it's no big deal...but this being the first time I've ever had a surgical procedure...it's kind of a big deal to me. I could care less about scaring. I'm dreading the pain afterward and the healing time. I hate not being 100%. Besides I had a goal of dying with all my organs and teeth in place. Dang gall bladder just shattered that dream.
I'm hoping the surgeon will be able to put my mind at ease about everything that's about to happen. I'll need lots of drugs, so I'm going to be sure he has a good supply handy!
It's a week of first. First cruise...topped by first surgery. Could I have my first lottery winning next please?
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
CRUISE NEWS
Carnival Cruise line took my virginity this past week. My husband and I enjoyed our first cruise...and I mean really "enjoyed"! Carnival has been described as a "party barge" and I think that's pretty accurate. It was a fairly young crowd, but us oldies, but goodies managed to hold our own. There was non-stop entertainment and I don't believe I've ever witnessed so much alcohol consumption.
We booked an inside cabin and I wasn't the least bit disappointed. I expected there to be barely enough room to turn around, but I just thought it was cozy. Besides the king bed, which was extremely comfortable, there were two closets (one a very good size) and a desk with three drawers for storing your gear. The bathroom was another surprise. I expected it to be so small I'd have to prop my legs on the toilet seat in order to shave them, but it was a nice size also. Lots of water pressure in the shower too. I never felt claustrophobic for a minute inside our room. Of course, we didn't spend much time in there.
My other major concern was motion sickness. We got some patches from our pharmacist just to be sure, but we only used one of them. I put one on Saturday morning because it was the first time I could actually feel the boat moving. The seas were a little rough, but even that didn't make it unbearable. I applied the patch as a precaution only. Within a couple of hours we were in calm waters again and I actually forgot we were even moving.
Checking off the boat was a bit of a hassle...only because we thought we were leaving the ship at 7a.m. and they didn't take our area till about 8:30. We got up at 6 and got a nice breakfast one last time, then sat and waited till they called Zone 7 to disembark. It all runs like a well oiled machine and I appreciated that. Next time we'll sleep in a bit longer on the last day on board.
All in all we had a marvelous time and I look forward to sailing again. Next time we hope to have some friends sail with us. I think several couples would really have a good time together on a cruise. Let me know if you're interested! We may plan one for a our 10th anniversary next year!
We booked an inside cabin and I wasn't the least bit disappointed. I expected there to be barely enough room to turn around, but I just thought it was cozy. Besides the king bed, which was extremely comfortable, there were two closets (one a very good size) and a desk with three drawers for storing your gear. The bathroom was another surprise. I expected it to be so small I'd have to prop my legs on the toilet seat in order to shave them, but it was a nice size also. Lots of water pressure in the shower too. I never felt claustrophobic for a minute inside our room. Of course, we didn't spend much time in there.
My other major concern was motion sickness. We got some patches from our pharmacist just to be sure, but we only used one of them. I put one on Saturday morning because it was the first time I could actually feel the boat moving. The seas were a little rough, but even that didn't make it unbearable. I applied the patch as a precaution only. Within a couple of hours we were in calm waters again and I actually forgot we were even moving.
Checking off the boat was a bit of a hassle...only because we thought we were leaving the ship at 7a.m. and they didn't take our area till about 8:30. We got up at 6 and got a nice breakfast one last time, then sat and waited till they called Zone 7 to disembark. It all runs like a well oiled machine and I appreciated that. Next time we'll sleep in a bit longer on the last day on board.
All in all we had a marvelous time and I look forward to sailing again. Next time we hope to have some friends sail with us. I think several couples would really have a good time together on a cruise. Let me know if you're interested! We may plan one for a our 10th anniversary next year!
Friday, May 14, 2010
VACATION PACKING
Only four more days till our vacation! I can't wait to throw the suitcases in the car and hit the road. Well, maybe we won't be "throwing" the bags in the car. More like hiring a crane and "loading" them in. At least when it comes to mine, which I have already stuffed in anticipation of our first cruise.
I posted a statement on Facebook and asked if I should pack too much as opposed to having not enough. So funny how all the women said "pack away" and the guys said "take only half of what you think you need". HA, I'm a woman, fellas and we pack for every possible scenario. I have several dresses for evenings, shorts in all lengths and colors and then several tops to go with those shorts (cause you never know which one you'll be in the mood to wear), then there are shoes for each outfit and jewelry. Bathing suits (ugh) are a must. I only packed two cause I hate them...but I made up for it with four different coverups. Cardigan sweaters (brown and black), windbreaker, rain gear, tennis shoes and exercise clothes (thinking positive) and a pair of jeans...just in case. Underwear is also specialized. Bras in several colors, panties in different styles and colors...they're all going with me.
On Monday night I'll pack the cosmetic case. That is a separate bag altogether and the older I get the more lotions and potions I need to take with me.
My husband will pack his bag Monday night around 10p.m. He'll just open drawers throw T-shirts, shorts, a pair of swim trunks, one pair of dress slacks and a couple of polo shirts in his suitcase and he'll be done. He'll probably take two pair of shoes and a couple of hats also.
OMG...that reminds I forgot my hats...gotta go...more packing to do!!
I posted a statement on Facebook and asked if I should pack too much as opposed to having not enough. So funny how all the women said "pack away" and the guys said "take only half of what you think you need". HA, I'm a woman, fellas and we pack for every possible scenario. I have several dresses for evenings, shorts in all lengths and colors and then several tops to go with those shorts (cause you never know which one you'll be in the mood to wear), then there are shoes for each outfit and jewelry. Bathing suits (ugh) are a must. I only packed two cause I hate them...but I made up for it with four different coverups. Cardigan sweaters (brown and black), windbreaker, rain gear, tennis shoes and exercise clothes (thinking positive) and a pair of jeans...just in case. Underwear is also specialized. Bras in several colors, panties in different styles and colors...they're all going with me.
On Monday night I'll pack the cosmetic case. That is a separate bag altogether and the older I get the more lotions and potions I need to take with me.
My husband will pack his bag Monday night around 10p.m. He'll just open drawers throw T-shirts, shorts, a pair of swim trunks, one pair of dress slacks and a couple of polo shirts in his suitcase and he'll be done. He'll probably take two pair of shoes and a couple of hats also.
OMG...that reminds I forgot my hats...gotta go...more packing to do!!
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
I FALL DOWN...GO BOOM
I introduced my son, Adam and his girlfriend, Danielle, to the joys of Rum Runners on Saturday night. I can't say the place was hoppin', but we enjoyed ourselves. That is until I decided to take a nose dive.
At Rum Runners, periodically they will get people from the audience to come up on the small stage with them to dance or act silly. I got dragged up there to dance and Danielle joined me. I kicked off my sandals to give mY feet access to more movement and boogied away. When the song was over I jumped off the stage to grab my sandals and for some unknown reason decided to hop back up on stage instead of just walking back to our table. Didn't exactly execute a graceful move. I caught my sandal and toe on the edge of the stage and started to crash toward the floor. I was able to catch myself so I just landed on my knees and wrists (just missing the piano leg with my head). Luckily I had just enough alcohol in me not to feel embarrassed. I jumped up to my feet, did a brief bow and exited back to my seat.
I actually forgot about it till around 4a.m. when I awoke from a sound sleep and could barely move. I felt like I'd been in a car wreck. When did I get so old that just taking a little tumble could make me ache for days? I'm thinking maybe I didn't have enough booze in me. Maybe that would have made me more relaxed and I wouldn't feel like I've been hit by a train.
Note to self: drink more when out at clubs, in case you take a tumble.
At Rum Runners, periodically they will get people from the audience to come up on the small stage with them to dance or act silly. I got dragged up there to dance and Danielle joined me. I kicked off my sandals to give mY feet access to more movement and boogied away. When the song was over I jumped off the stage to grab my sandals and for some unknown reason decided to hop back up on stage instead of just walking back to our table. Didn't exactly execute a graceful move. I caught my sandal and toe on the edge of the stage and started to crash toward the floor. I was able to catch myself so I just landed on my knees and wrists (just missing the piano leg with my head). Luckily I had just enough alcohol in me not to feel embarrassed. I jumped up to my feet, did a brief bow and exited back to my seat.
I actually forgot about it till around 4a.m. when I awoke from a sound sleep and could barely move. I felt like I'd been in a car wreck. When did I get so old that just taking a little tumble could make me ache for days? I'm thinking maybe I didn't have enough booze in me. Maybe that would have made me more relaxed and I wouldn't feel like I've been hit by a train.
Note to self: drink more when out at clubs, in case you take a tumble.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
KINDNESS BEGETS KINDNESS
Little acts of kindness can put a smile in someone's heart. This past Thanksgiving, my son, his girlfriend and I were driving through Starbucks to grab a pumpkin latte for Danielle. When we got to the window to pay we were informed that the car in front of us had paid for her drink. To this day, I smile every time I think about that generous act. It made me want to bless others. Pay it forward so to speak.
I've yet to cover someone's bill at a drive thru, but I do little things that I hope will lighten someone's load just a bit. I often shop at Aldi's and you are required to pay a quarter for their carts. When you return your cart you get your quarter back. It's a great system for keeping the parking lot...cart free. I like to look for someone about to get a wagon and give them mine. When they go to hand me their quarter I always say, "that's okay, just give the cart to someone else to use." It's not much...but to some people that quarter is a great deal.
I look around me and try to be aware of people struggling to get doors open and hold them open, elderly people often need assistance getting groceries off top shelves or just separating the carts in the entry of the store and it only takes a moment to lend a hand.
The other day I was at Kroger's and while I was checking out an older, rough looking man came in looking for a certain kind of candy. He asked my checkout girl if there was anyone who could assist him and she looked down her nose and said, "no". He walked away and I questioned the girl. She said, "we don't have anyone available to help him. Everyone is busy." For some reason this really made me angry. I paid for my groceries, then told the girl to watch my cart and went in search of the man. There he was in the candy aisle struggling to read the packages. I helped him find the candy he was looking for, went back and grabbed my groceries and headed home. I don't even know if he knew I was a customer and not someone who worked there. He did say, "thanks" rather gruffly. It wasn't about being thanked though, it was about feeling that I did a little something to help another person living in this crazy world and that made me feel better about myself.
In this age of talking, texting, everyone always being in a rush and people rarely making eye contact, I think we've forgotten to take moments out of our day to connect with those around us. If this little blog inspires just one person to open their eyes and help a stranger now and then...then I'm glad I wrote it.
I've yet to cover someone's bill at a drive thru, but I do little things that I hope will lighten someone's load just a bit. I often shop at Aldi's and you are required to pay a quarter for their carts. When you return your cart you get your quarter back. It's a great system for keeping the parking lot...cart free. I like to look for someone about to get a wagon and give them mine. When they go to hand me their quarter I always say, "that's okay, just give the cart to someone else to use." It's not much...but to some people that quarter is a great deal.
I look around me and try to be aware of people struggling to get doors open and hold them open, elderly people often need assistance getting groceries off top shelves or just separating the carts in the entry of the store and it only takes a moment to lend a hand.
The other day I was at Kroger's and while I was checking out an older, rough looking man came in looking for a certain kind of candy. He asked my checkout girl if there was anyone who could assist him and she looked down her nose and said, "no". He walked away and I questioned the girl. She said, "we don't have anyone available to help him. Everyone is busy." For some reason this really made me angry. I paid for my groceries, then told the girl to watch my cart and went in search of the man. There he was in the candy aisle struggling to read the packages. I helped him find the candy he was looking for, went back and grabbed my groceries and headed home. I don't even know if he knew I was a customer and not someone who worked there. He did say, "thanks" rather gruffly. It wasn't about being thanked though, it was about feeling that I did a little something to help another person living in this crazy world and that made me feel better about myself.
In this age of talking, texting, everyone always being in a rush and people rarely making eye contact, I think we've forgotten to take moments out of our day to connect with those around us. If this little blog inspires just one person to open their eyes and help a stranger now and then...then I'm glad I wrote it.
Monday, May 10, 2010
SWING BATTA BATTA
I feel so much younger than the sum of my years. That is until I played softball on Saturday afternoon for the first time in about 30 years.
Saturday I attended a picnic with the Triangle Couples meetup group. After a nice relaxing lunch, our hosts decided to put together a softball game. Silly me...I signed up to play. I wasn't really expecting much out of myself other than some exercise swinging a bat at the air as the ball whizzed by me. So you can imagine my surprise when I heard "WHACK" and saw the ball flying off the end of my bat. I ran...as fast as my ancient legs would take me and low and behold I was "safe" at first. I was ecstatic! But as the next person up to bat hit the ball and I had to run to second...and then the next person got a hit and I had to run to third...I began to question the wisdom in my actually trying to hit the ball. If I hadn't hit it...I wouldn't have had to run. Hmmmm, I could be onto something here. SAFE at home! I had run all four bases. As I sat in my camp chair trying to catch my breath and willing the sun to stop beating down on my head...I realized...I was through. I wasn't getting paid for this punishment. I had no intention of hitting the ball again if I got up to bat...so I gave my team a break and headed to the picnic shelter to relax with the rest of the intelligent over 40/50 crowd who chose to just watch the game and not actually participate.
Thank God I took myself out of the game. I could barely move by the time evening approached and going to Rum Runners and tripping over my own two feet didn't help with the aches and pains any. But that's another story. Talk to you tomorrow.
Saturday I attended a picnic with the Triangle Couples meetup group. After a nice relaxing lunch, our hosts decided to put together a softball game. Silly me...I signed up to play. I wasn't really expecting much out of myself other than some exercise swinging a bat at the air as the ball whizzed by me. So you can imagine my surprise when I heard "WHACK" and saw the ball flying off the end of my bat. I ran...as fast as my ancient legs would take me and low and behold I was "safe" at first. I was ecstatic! But as the next person up to bat hit the ball and I had to run to second...and then the next person got a hit and I had to run to third...I began to question the wisdom in my actually trying to hit the ball. If I hadn't hit it...I wouldn't have had to run. Hmmmm, I could be onto something here. SAFE at home! I had run all four bases. As I sat in my camp chair trying to catch my breath and willing the sun to stop beating down on my head...I realized...I was through. I wasn't getting paid for this punishment. I had no intention of hitting the ball again if I got up to bat...so I gave my team a break and headed to the picnic shelter to relax with the rest of the intelligent over 40/50 crowd who chose to just watch the game and not actually participate.
Thank God I took myself out of the game. I could barely move by the time evening approached and going to Rum Runners and tripping over my own two feet didn't help with the aches and pains any. But that's another story. Talk to you tomorrow.
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