2006 was an interesting year for me. All in all, I'm happy to say that it was a relatively quiet year. I'm fortunate to have been able to overcome the knocks that were sent my way. Not to say that there weren't losses, or that it wasn't an emotional year; but in the grand scheme of things - life was calm. I'm hoping that 2007 is just as kind to me.
Isn't it said that to strengthen your weaknesses you must embrace them first?
I'm hoping to do that in the upcoming year.
So this is my toast to 2006:
"If you stop growing, if you stop believing, if you stop striving - then you have stopped living. Here's to a staying alive for a magical new year."
Author Charles Lamb once said of New Year's:
"New Year's Day is every man's birthday."
May 2007 be a healthy and prosperous year to all...and here's to no acquaintance being forgotten.
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Saturday, December 30, 2006
It's like a fresh start, once a year!
Should auld acquaintance be forgot? No, I don't think so.
Each and every person we've crossed paths with in one way or another is for a reason. Sometimes we know why; sometimes we don't see it right away because maybe there was a lesson to be learned from it. But whether we look back upon these people and see immediately the reason for their involvement in our lives is irrelevant; without them we'd each be a different person than who we are at this very moment. And for that reason alone - no acquaintance should ever be forgotten.
What exactly is a New Year's resolution? Is it a list of things that we wish to achieve? Things we should've already achieved but haven't taken the time to do? For me, the resolutions I make are a little of both. I'm a goal oriented person, so if I put in writing what I'd like to accomplish, chances are - I will do it.
So here, without further adieu - are my New Year's Resolutions for 2007:
1. Read 1 book a month. I think I'm actually going to start a Book of the Month club to keep myself on track with that. I know, I'm a geek. I finished my last book I mentioned "The Secret Life of Bees", and have bought a new book to get my resolution going: "The Memory Keeper's Daughter". I'm open to any and all recommendations, so please - feel free to share any good books that are worth reading. I'm not picky, just like good reading material. No Harlequin love novels for this girl!
2. Enroll in school and finish my degree and maybe.... consider taking graduate courses.
3. Run a 10k. Of course this will require some training, so running more 5ks is the pre-requisite for this resolution.
4. Go to the doctors and get a complete physical. I tell everyone else to do this, it's time I follow my own advice and do it. I have an aversion to doctors that I've developed since having kids.... time for me to grow up and lose that. I'm proactive in mostly every other area of my life; why be reactive when it comes to my health?
Have you thought about your resolutions yet?
Each and every person we've crossed paths with in one way or another is for a reason. Sometimes we know why; sometimes we don't see it right away because maybe there was a lesson to be learned from it. But whether we look back upon these people and see immediately the reason for their involvement in our lives is irrelevant; without them we'd each be a different person than who we are at this very moment. And for that reason alone - no acquaintance should ever be forgotten.
What exactly is a New Year's resolution? Is it a list of things that we wish to achieve? Things we should've already achieved but haven't taken the time to do? For me, the resolutions I make are a little of both. I'm a goal oriented person, so if I put in writing what I'd like to accomplish, chances are - I will do it.
So here, without further adieu - are my New Year's Resolutions for 2007:
1. Read 1 book a month. I think I'm actually going to start a Book of the Month club to keep myself on track with that. I know, I'm a geek. I finished my last book I mentioned "The Secret Life of Bees", and have bought a new book to get my resolution going: "The Memory Keeper's Daughter". I'm open to any and all recommendations, so please - feel free to share any good books that are worth reading. I'm not picky, just like good reading material. No Harlequin love novels for this girl!
2. Enroll in school and finish my degree and maybe.... consider taking graduate courses.
3. Run a 10k. Of course this will require some training, so running more 5ks is the pre-requisite for this resolution.
4. Go to the doctors and get a complete physical. I tell everyone else to do this, it's time I follow my own advice and do it. I have an aversion to doctors that I've developed since having kids.... time for me to grow up and lose that. I'm proactive in mostly every other area of my life; why be reactive when it comes to my health?
5. Go to NYC for the weekend to see a show and do some shopping with my friends. I've never been there, outside of going for 3 hours for an audition. Imagine? So close - and yet never been to the Big Apple. I am definitely going this year.
I don't think that New Year's is the only time of year that we can reflect upon things which we can improve about ourselves - so this is an ever changing, evolving, living/breathing list. And I'm sure I have other things that I should be adding to this list -but they're escaping me at the moment. Clearly, my coffee has yet to kick in.Have you thought about your resolutions yet?
Friday, December 29, 2006
Thursday, December 28, 2006
A walking contradiction....
This is often how I describe myself. A walking contradiction. Smack dab in the middle of "type A" and "type B" - which in of itself is just weird. Anal retentive about somethings....and so very laid back and lax about others. So, in taking this fun little blogthing, I thought it was ironic that the first sentence used that terminology too.
I haven't been watching the news lately because it's too joyous of a season to be brought down with all the negativity the nightly news brings. But yesterday I did a little catching up. Former President Gerald Ford passed away as I'm sure everyone knows. You know you're getting old when the first President you can clearly remember being in office dies....in other news, Saddam Hussein's sentence will be upheld and executed (literally) within the next 30 days. That is great news for the Iraqi people, and the new government. I don't have compassion for Saddam, but I do feel pity for him. Power is a funny thing.....if you're a good person, you can do magical things with it. If you're not, well - we all know how that story goes. He had a defining moment in his life where he could've chosen to be a different kind of leader, and he opted not to go that route. He could've been loved, revered, respected....a father, a grandfather, and a beloved leader. And instead, he's going to be executed as a heinous dictator. An abuser. A creator of monsters. A rat smoked out of a hole.
The New Year is fast approaching and I'm compiling my list of resolutions. I keep finding new ones to add; clearly I can use some self improvement. But then again, couldn't we all?
I haven't been watching the news lately because it's too joyous of a season to be brought down with all the negativity the nightly news brings. But yesterday I did a little catching up. Former President Gerald Ford passed away as I'm sure everyone knows. You know you're getting old when the first President you can clearly remember being in office dies....in other news, Saddam Hussein's sentence will be upheld and executed (literally) within the next 30 days. That is great news for the Iraqi people, and the new government. I don't have compassion for Saddam, but I do feel pity for him. Power is a funny thing.....if you're a good person, you can do magical things with it. If you're not, well - we all know how that story goes. He had a defining moment in his life where he could've chosen to be a different kind of leader, and he opted not to go that route. He could've been loved, revered, respected....a father, a grandfather, and a beloved leader. And instead, he's going to be executed as a heinous dictator. An abuser. A creator of monsters. A rat smoked out of a hole.
The New Year is fast approaching and I'm compiling my list of resolutions. I keep finding new ones to add; clearly I can use some self improvement. But then again, couldn't we all?
| Your Element Is Water |
 A bit of a contradiction, you can seem both lighthearted and serious. That's because you're good at going with the flow - but you also are deep. Highly intuitive, you tune in to people's emotions and moods easily. You are able to tap into deep emotional connections and connect with others. You prefer a smooth, harmonious life - but you can navigate your way around waves. You have a knack for getting people to get along and making life a little more peaceful. |
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Random thoughts for the day after Christmas...
1. I'm beat. It was a lot of fun yesterday - but alot of work. I'm glad the biggest portion is behind me. Now all that's left to do....is take the tree and decorations down on New Years Day. Ayup. With a hangover, that ought to be a lot of fun...!
2. I can't believe my lawn is green. I have new grass growing in! Clearly, this global warming thing is working because my lawn looks better now than it did during most of the summer! Who'da thunk it?
3. I have this funky laryngitis thing going on. I feel great....I'm not sick or anything. But definitely have that "might have smoked too much last night" sound. Except for the fact of that I don't smoke. I just sound smoky.... I'll take it.
4. Those stupid little plastic ties that all kids toys seemed to be harnessed in their little boxes with just drive me insane. What ever happened to the days of opening a box and just taking the toy out? My hands are killing me from all those silly little "flooglebinder" things. I know, flooglebinder isn't the right word...but do you remember what movie that comes from? I do!
5. I'm going back to work tomorrow. I didn't take time off because well - I don't really have anything to do. I mean, there are lots of things I'd like to do, but no one to do them with because everyone else is working or already has plans.Not that I couldn't do things with my kids but they already have playdate plans. So I'm hoping it's quiet enough to go in, do my thing and then leave early and do something else. I'm sure I can find something to occupy my time...
6. No Jason Varitek under my tree. Sigh..... Maybe next year.
2. I can't believe my lawn is green. I have new grass growing in! Clearly, this global warming thing is working because my lawn looks better now than it did during most of the summer! Who'da thunk it?
3. I have this funky laryngitis thing going on. I feel great....I'm not sick or anything. But definitely have that "might have smoked too much last night" sound. Except for the fact of that I don't smoke. I just sound smoky.... I'll take it.
4. Those stupid little plastic ties that all kids toys seemed to be harnessed in their little boxes with just drive me insane. What ever happened to the days of opening a box and just taking the toy out? My hands are killing me from all those silly little "flooglebinder" things. I know, flooglebinder isn't the right word...but do you remember what movie that comes from? I do!
5. I'm going back to work tomorrow. I didn't take time off because well - I don't really have anything to do. I mean, there are lots of things I'd like to do, but no one to do them with because everyone else is working or already has plans.Not that I couldn't do things with my kids but they already have playdate plans. So I'm hoping it's quiet enough to go in, do my thing and then leave early and do something else. I'm sure I can find something to occupy my time...
6. No Jason Varitek under my tree. Sigh..... Maybe next year.
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Have yourself a merry little Christmas....
However you spend the next few days, I hope you're surrounded with people you feel comfort with.
May your mug of hot cocoa never be empty....and your stomach always full!
Here's to another year of looking forward to being nice....with maybe just a few naughty moments!
May your mug of hot cocoa never be empty....and your stomach always full!
Here's to another year of looking forward to being nice....with maybe just a few naughty moments!
Saturday, December 23, 2006
All I want for Christmas is.....(fill in the blank)
So, it looks nothing at all like Christmas around here. It's warm, balmy....and rainy. That's okay - it doesn't damper the spirit any, at least not for me.
What does damper the spirit is that just when I thought the shopping season had ended for me - I found out it hasn't. I found out this morning that we have another guest coming for dinner and it just wouldn't be right to open gifts and not have anything for them. So....off I'll go today to get for one more. I'm still in wrapping hell, but I'm hoping to see the end of that tunnel by tonight. I think that's the only part of Christmas that I don't love....the wrapping. But I think that's because I do it all myself. Who am I kidding? I do everything myself. Always. From the shopping, to the wrapping....to the cooking to the cleaning. And not just at Christmas....it's always. It's my life. It's a solo job. And I enjoy doing it, so I suppose I shouldn't complain, but I guess a little help somewhere along the line would be nice!!! (Okay, I guess I'm bitching.)
Wait, didn't I say my spirit wasn't dampered? Well, okay - maybe I'm not as cheery today as I've been. But I'm sure after a good cup of coffee - another round of wrapping - and of course, a pick me up of shopping for my favorite things (cleaning products), I'll be feeling happier overall.
What does damper the spirit is that just when I thought the shopping season had ended for me - I found out it hasn't. I found out this morning that we have another guest coming for dinner and it just wouldn't be right to open gifts and not have anything for them. So....off I'll go today to get for one more. I'm still in wrapping hell, but I'm hoping to see the end of that tunnel by tonight. I think that's the only part of Christmas that I don't love....the wrapping. But I think that's because I do it all myself. Who am I kidding? I do everything myself. Always. From the shopping, to the wrapping....to the cooking to the cleaning. And not just at Christmas....it's always. It's my life. It's a solo job. And I enjoy doing it, so I suppose I shouldn't complain, but I guess a little help somewhere along the line would be nice!!! (Okay, I guess I'm bitching.)
Wait, didn't I say my spirit wasn't dampered? Well, okay - maybe I'm not as cheery today as I've been. But I'm sure after a good cup of coffee - another round of wrapping - and of course, a pick me up of shopping for my favorite things (cleaning products), I'll be feeling happier overall.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
I'm actually going to be ahead of the game!
I cant' believe Christmas is so close! I love that it's on a Monday this year - it's going to allow me an extra day to get ready which means I won't be a crazy busy person on Christmas Eve Day. I'll actually be all prepared for my dinner the night previous. I'll prep everything on Saturday so that I'll only have to finish the cooking on Christmas Day. You have no idea how much of a relief that is. Now, I'll only have to worry about the gifts that I may have forgotten to buy!
As I've mentioned before, I love entertaining - and the cooking is my favorite part of it all. Christmas is the one holiday that I like to go all out and get a little more formal and creative with my menu. So without further adieu, as I always promise to reveal my menus - the following is what will be served on Christmas Day at the "I'm just a girl" house:
Appetizers: Cheese, Crackers, Smoked Salmon, and other condiments
1st course: Shrimp Cocktail, Stuffed Scallops, Scallops wrapped in bacon and Filet Mignon bits wrapped in bacon
2d course: Home made Broccoli, Cheese and Mushroom Soup, Antispasto
3rd course: Baked Ziti & Meatballs/Sausages
Main Course: Spiral Ham, Roast Beef, Roasted Potatoes, Sausage stuffed peppers, Sauteed String Beans Almondine
Dessert: Yeah, I don't do dessert on Christmas. Everyone brings a dessert that day. I call it quits at dessert.
As I've mentioned before, I love entertaining - and the cooking is my favorite part of it all. Christmas is the one holiday that I like to go all out and get a little more formal and creative with my menu. So without further adieu, as I always promise to reveal my menus - the following is what will be served on Christmas Day at the "I'm just a girl" house:
Appetizers: Cheese, Crackers, Smoked Salmon, and other condiments
1st course: Shrimp Cocktail, Stuffed Scallops, Scallops wrapped in bacon and Filet Mignon bits wrapped in bacon
2d course: Home made Broccoli, Cheese and Mushroom Soup, Antispasto
3rd course: Baked Ziti & Meatballs/Sausages
Main Course: Spiral Ham, Roast Beef, Roasted Potatoes, Sausage stuffed peppers, Sauteed String Beans Almondine
Dessert: Yeah, I don't do dessert on Christmas. Everyone brings a dessert that day. I call it quits at dessert.
| Your Holiday Personality is Social |
 For you, the holidays are all about spending time with people you love - and even those you kind of like. Host your own party - maybe even a few. Get people together for baking cookies, watching movies, and playing holiday charades. |
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
She took the words right out of my mouth....
Dear Santa,
Do you remember me?
I sat upon your knee.
I wrote to you with childhood fantasies.
Well, I'm all grown up now,
But I still need help somehow.
I'm not a child, but my heart still can dream.
So, here's my lifelong wish --My grown-up Christmas list.
Not for myself, but for a world in need.
No more lives torn apart,
And wars would never start,
And time would heal all hearts.
Everyone would have a friend,
And right would always win,
And love would never end...
This is my grown-up Christmas list.
As children we believed
The grandest sight to see
Was something lovely wrapped beneath the tree.
Well heaven surely knows
That packages and bows
Can never heal a hurting human soul.
No more lives torn apart,
And wars would never start,
And time would heal all hearts.
Everyone would have a friend,
And right would always win,
And love would never end...
This is my grown-up Christmas list.
What is this illusion called the innocence of youth?
Maybe only in our blind belief can we ever find the truth!
There'd be...No more lives torn apart,
And wars would never start,
And time would heal all hearts.
Everyone would have a friend,
And right would always win,
And love would never end...
This is my grown-up Christmas list.
PS: Jason Varitek professing his undying love for me is a little something I might like too. Thanks!
Do you remember me?
I sat upon your knee.
I wrote to you with childhood fantasies.
Well, I'm all grown up now,
But I still need help somehow.
I'm not a child, but my heart still can dream.
So, here's my lifelong wish --My grown-up Christmas list.
Not for myself, but for a world in need.
No more lives torn apart,
And wars would never start,
And time would heal all hearts.
Everyone would have a friend,
And right would always win,
And love would never end...
This is my grown-up Christmas list.
As children we believed
The grandest sight to see
Was something lovely wrapped beneath the tree.
Well heaven surely knows
That packages and bows
Can never heal a hurting human soul.
No more lives torn apart,
And wars would never start,
And time would heal all hearts.
Everyone would have a friend,
And right would always win,
And love would never end...
This is my grown-up Christmas list.
What is this illusion called the innocence of youth?
Maybe only in our blind belief can we ever find the truth!
There'd be...No more lives torn apart,
And wars would never start,
And time would heal all hearts.
Everyone would have a friend,
And right would always win,
And love would never end...
This is my grown-up Christmas list.
PS: Jason Varitek professing his undying love for me is a little something I might like too. Thanks!
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Have a cup of cheer!
I found this Christmas "meme" on Martie's blog the other day - and after my cautious mood yesterday, thought that today was a good day to bring back the holiday spirit!
So if you want it - take it - and tell me if you posted, so that I can see what you wrote.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Hot Chocolate flavored Egg Nog. :)
2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? Santa is all about presentation... but the elves do all the wrapping. Santa can't do it all!
3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? White lights
4. Do you hang mistletoe? No. Who kisses anymore??
5. When do you put your decorations up? Thanksgiving weekend.... it's so busy as the holiday approaches, it's nice to enjoy the tree and lights when it's quiet.
6. What is your favorite holiday dish? I love it all. Ham is the classic centerpiece, but Christmas is when I get really creative and fun with cooking.
7. Favorite Holiday memory? Hearing my Dad explain how Santa's handwriting really wasn't anything like his! ;) And seeing my kids expressions the first time they saw the tree light up and really "got it".
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? The truth is that I still believe. "Miracle on 34th Street" is my favorite Christmas movie. And isn't there a little bit of Santa in all of us?
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? No. I love waiting for Christmas morning. I'm pretty patient.
10. How do you decorate your Christmas Tree? Colored bulbs first...then personal ornaments, then "fou fou" ornaments, then the ribbon. (My tree is pre-lit)
11. Snow! Love it or Dread it? Love it. I love going snowmobiling, and clearly you can't do that without snow!
12. Can you ice skate? Yes, I can skate pretty well - even do a basic spin. I love ice skating.
13. Do you remember your favorite gift? I've had so many wonderful gifts over the years...not one is more special than the other. My most special gifts didn't come at Christmas, they were in the summer. And those - were my kids.
14. What's the most important thing? Hmmm....About Christmas? To me, the spirit of the season is more important than the holiday.
15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert? My Auntie Saralee's "Green Slime Pie", which we are having in her memory this year!!
16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? Decorating the tree which I've always done by myself - now, it's a tradition for me and the kids. Hot cocoa, home made ice cream, Christmas music and lots of laughter. Funny, neither my previous relationship or my husband were/are ever into decorating the tree. Is that a "guy" thing? I couldn't imagine not being a part of that.
17. What tops your tree? A teddy bear angel my Mom made when I was young. When I moved out at 181/2, I told her that was the one thing I wanted her to give to me, which she did. It's been on my tree every year since.
18. Which do you prefer giving or Receiving? Getting gifts is always nice....but the giving of the gifts is by far my favorite.
19. What is your favorite Christmas Song? Traditional: Little Drummer Boy, Oh Holy Night, Greensleeves/What Child is This. Contemporary: Christmas in Sarajevo (TransSiberian Orchestra), Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy (David Bowie/Bing Crosby), Believe (Josh Groban)
20. Candy canes, Yuck or Yum? How can you not love candy canes?!
So if you want it - take it - and tell me if you posted, so that I can see what you wrote.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Hot Chocolate flavored Egg Nog. :)
2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? Santa is all about presentation... but the elves do all the wrapping. Santa can't do it all!
3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? White lights
4. Do you hang mistletoe? No. Who kisses anymore??
5. When do you put your decorations up? Thanksgiving weekend.... it's so busy as the holiday approaches, it's nice to enjoy the tree and lights when it's quiet.
6. What is your favorite holiday dish? I love it all. Ham is the classic centerpiece, but Christmas is when I get really creative and fun with cooking.
7. Favorite Holiday memory? Hearing my Dad explain how Santa's handwriting really wasn't anything like his! ;) And seeing my kids expressions the first time they saw the tree light up and really "got it".
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? The truth is that I still believe. "Miracle on 34th Street" is my favorite Christmas movie. And isn't there a little bit of Santa in all of us?
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? No. I love waiting for Christmas morning. I'm pretty patient.
10. How do you decorate your Christmas Tree? Colored bulbs first...then personal ornaments, then "fou fou" ornaments, then the ribbon. (My tree is pre-lit)
11. Snow! Love it or Dread it? Love it. I love going snowmobiling, and clearly you can't do that without snow!
12. Can you ice skate? Yes, I can skate pretty well - even do a basic spin. I love ice skating.
13. Do you remember your favorite gift? I've had so many wonderful gifts over the years...not one is more special than the other. My most special gifts didn't come at Christmas, they were in the summer. And those - were my kids.
14. What's the most important thing? Hmmm....About Christmas? To me, the spirit of the season is more important than the holiday.
15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert? My Auntie Saralee's "Green Slime Pie", which we are having in her memory this year!!
16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? Decorating the tree which I've always done by myself - now, it's a tradition for me and the kids. Hot cocoa, home made ice cream, Christmas music and lots of laughter. Funny, neither my previous relationship or my husband were/are ever into decorating the tree. Is that a "guy" thing? I couldn't imagine not being a part of that.
17. What tops your tree? A teddy bear angel my Mom made when I was young. When I moved out at 181/2, I told her that was the one thing I wanted her to give to me, which she did. It's been on my tree every year since.
18. Which do you prefer giving or Receiving? Getting gifts is always nice....but the giving of the gifts is by far my favorite.
19. What is your favorite Christmas Song? Traditional: Little Drummer Boy, Oh Holy Night, Greensleeves/What Child is This. Contemporary: Christmas in Sarajevo (TransSiberian Orchestra), Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy (David Bowie/Bing Crosby), Believe (Josh Groban)
20. Candy canes, Yuck or Yum? How can you not love candy canes?!
Monday, December 18, 2006
A sting in the air....
Life has been relatively quiet with the usual suspects as of late.
It's funny though...I have a sneaking suspicion that Christmas Eve is going to be eventful. I can just feel it.
An unspoken tension is there. It's ever so slight....so subtle. And yet I feel it so sharply.
Christmas Eve is one of the few times that things like this can happen because it's one of the few nights that we're all enclosed in the same space. And of course, one of the parties involved always seems to choose that night to air their discontent. I can't help but be suspicious each year as that night approaches.
But hopefully, my gut will be unusually incorrect.
"...Well everybody got an opinion now, don't they
But it aint no thang to me
it really don't make any difference now to me
if you don't like what you see
I pay no mind to the negative kind
cause it's just no way to be
I don't stop to please someone else you see
Gonna live my life for me
Gonna keep on doing my thing
Cause whether they love or they're hatin' on me
I'll still be the same girl I used to be..."
It's funny though...I have a sneaking suspicion that Christmas Eve is going to be eventful. I can just feel it.
An unspoken tension is there. It's ever so slight....so subtle. And yet I feel it so sharply.
Christmas Eve is one of the few times that things like this can happen because it's one of the few nights that we're all enclosed in the same space. And of course, one of the parties involved always seems to choose that night to air their discontent. I can't help but be suspicious each year as that night approaches.
But hopefully, my gut will be unusually incorrect.
"...Well everybody got an opinion now, don't they
But it aint no thang to me
it really don't make any difference now to me
if you don't like what you see
I pay no mind to the negative kind
cause it's just no way to be
I don't stop to please someone else you see
Gonna live my life for me
Gonna keep on doing my thing
Cause whether they love or they're hatin' on me
I'll still be the same girl I used to be..."
Sunday, December 17, 2006
How lovely are your branches.....
So this is the tree this year....it's funny how pictures just don't do it any justice. If anything, it makes me notice the flaws in the placing of the ornaments. Not that there's a real science to it or anything, but I do try to balance the colors some. Okay, I do have to suppress my Monica-ish tendencies in this area. If I didn't have kids...this would definitely be a science. But with children, you sort of have to mellow out on the whole "Type A" thing. I pretty much let the kids pick out the placements of the ornaments that they can reach. Because truly, it's their tree. They just get a little "guidance" from Mom when decorating. We have dozens of ornaments that we've collected over the years, and each year we pick out a few new ones so the tree is different each year. And this gives the kids variety on what they want the tree to look like. They love picking out the bulbs and they both seem to love birds on the tree this season. They picked a few out this year, so we've got lots of pretty feathered birds. Fortunately, my kids and I have have similar taste! Boy, would they be dissapointed if we didn't! hahahaa.
It's too bad you can't really see the tree up close....it just looks so pretty in person.
Friday, December 15, 2006
"When I'm tired and feeling cold -- I hide in my music, forget the day....."
I've been fortunate to have good friends in my lifetime. But from the time I was 14 on, I was "best friends" with my friend Paul. He's probably the closest thing to a brother I've ever had. We'd talk on the phone for hours. We would drive around for hours, listening to music endlessly. Some of it would be these eclectic little artists that no one else knew much about; sometimes it would be bands like Boston, or the Cars....and sometimes it would be his own material. I have a really good ear for music, and sometimes he'd come up with something and bounce it off me to see what I thought. See, he's a musician - and was in a very popular local band at the time we met - and so music was something that we had in common. We actually met through a mutual friend - one of my girlfriends was in love with him. Obsessively. And she used to drag me along with her to go visit him at his work which was close to the mall. Plus, we'd see him at shows because of course we'd go to them. But as a result of being her friend and always being there - and not being obsessed with him - he and I hit it off. It turned out that we had tons in common with interests, and of course - there was the music. We were almost inseperable for many, many years. I'd give him advice about his girlfriends and career....He was there for me with my own heartbreaks in my relationships. I've always loved him and trusted him as I guess most sisters must love and trust their brother.
Our relationship has changed over the years. It started when he was engaged to a girl that thankfully he never married. She wasn't secure enough to accept me as his friend -and didn't want him to stay in touch with me. He didn't make the decision to do that though - I made it for him. I stopped calling, didn't return his calls - and eventually our friendship drifted. As his friend, the best thing I could do was to not pose a problem for him and who would have been his wife. Two years later I missed him terribly and called to see how he was. Funny how life is....they had broken up for good a few weeks earlier. They never married....and we could be friends again.
While we never got back to the routine of talking on the phone or hanging out again nearly to the extent that we used to - we've never lost touch since that point. He was at my wedding....and I hope to someday be at his. We call each other at least once a month and we try like crazy to make plans to have lunch together but life sometimes gets in the way. He's still in the music industry, and while he's playing in another band at the moment that's building momentum locally - he produced his own cd about 18 months ago that is excellent. I was so proud of him when I played it in my cd player. Check out his site: www.paulmangone.com and if you listen to track 12 - well that has extra special meaning to me. Its an instrumental - and is a musical reminiscense of our days when nothing else mattered but how good the music was.....
Our relationship has changed over the years. It started when he was engaged to a girl that thankfully he never married. She wasn't secure enough to accept me as his friend -and didn't want him to stay in touch with me. He didn't make the decision to do that though - I made it for him. I stopped calling, didn't return his calls - and eventually our friendship drifted. As his friend, the best thing I could do was to not pose a problem for him and who would have been his wife. Two years later I missed him terribly and called to see how he was. Funny how life is....they had broken up for good a few weeks earlier. They never married....and we could be friends again.
While we never got back to the routine of talking on the phone or hanging out again nearly to the extent that we used to - we've never lost touch since that point. He was at my wedding....and I hope to someday be at his. We call each other at least once a month and we try like crazy to make plans to have lunch together but life sometimes gets in the way. He's still in the music industry, and while he's playing in another band at the moment that's building momentum locally - he produced his own cd about 18 months ago that is excellent. I was so proud of him when I played it in my cd player. Check out his site: www.paulmangone.com and if you listen to track 12 - well that has extra special meaning to me. Its an instrumental - and is a musical reminiscense of our days when nothing else mattered but how good the music was.....
Thursday, December 14, 2006
I hate to say "I told you so".....
But I knew that we'd sign DMat. It would've been poor business sense for all of them to not make a deal. You don't pay $52 million to broker a deal, to not make it work, you know what I mean? And for Boras....to lose a client for his own selfish needs would be counterproductive. And DMat wants into the Big Boys League. To have let this fall apart would've been foolish on all their parts. Just my humble opinion. What I am surprised about is the length of time...6 years is an amazingly lucrative deal for the Sox. I thought for sure it was going to be a 3+1 at $11M. So to see 6 at roughly $8.5M is just mindblowing to me.
What I have issues with, is this whole "Dice K" thing. Dice K??? Who thinks of these things?!??! First off, it's awkward to say....second - I think it's just stupid. DMat is quick, easy and to the point. Sounds good, it's strong and you know who it is. I have to stop and think who the heck is Dice K? Ugh. Clearly someone should've cleared this nickname with me, because I'm here to say - I refuse to use it.
It's a good day in Red Sox Nation....it certainly is.
What I have issues with, is this whole "Dice K" thing. Dice K??? Who thinks of these things?!??! First off, it's awkward to say....second - I think it's just stupid. DMat is quick, easy and to the point. Sounds good, it's strong and you know who it is. I have to stop and think who the heck is Dice K? Ugh. Clearly someone should've cleared this nickname with me, because I'm here to say - I refuse to use it.
It's a good day in Red Sox Nation....it certainly is.
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Emotions in motion....
I never cry. I think the last time I wept was when my daughter was born, and even then it wasn't a sobbing - just a little breaking in my voice and a few tears. I'm a very controlled person, and while I can be very animated and excited about things in a good way - when it comes to tears, whether they're happiness or sadness - I'm exceptionally guarded. I know, it's an issue I have of feeling vulnerable. I have lots of issues in that area, being guarded and trusting those around me enough so that I can feel vulnerable and not be so hardened at all times. It's one of my "broken" traits....and I'm working on it.
Well, today was a day that I almost couldn't contain myself. My son had his Christmas concert at school, and I have never in my life ever felt anything like I felt when I saw him walk into the audiotorium for the first time and get on stage. The pride I felt made me feel like my heart was going to burst! And for the first time in a long time....my eyes filled with tears that I couldn't contain. I laughed and said "How silly, I'm all choked up!". And while I didn't cry, that little boy and seeing him wave moved me to tears faster than anyone who's ever tried to make me cry.
He sang his heart out!! And my daughter S, who adores her brother - yelled out in the audience in that split second before they started singing "I miss my T...Hi T....". Everyone started cracking up, it was really funny.
When I have moments like these, I often think of parents who aren't there for their kids, or who don't revel and enjoy their children as they should. And I feel so sad for them. They just don't know what they're missing. There is nothing like seeing your child grow and re-living your life through them - and feeling the unbelievable sense of pride that comes with seeing that little life blossom.
Well, today was a day that I almost couldn't contain myself. My son had his Christmas concert at school, and I have never in my life ever felt anything like I felt when I saw him walk into the audiotorium for the first time and get on stage. The pride I felt made me feel like my heart was going to burst! And for the first time in a long time....my eyes filled with tears that I couldn't contain. I laughed and said "How silly, I'm all choked up!". And while I didn't cry, that little boy and seeing him wave moved me to tears faster than anyone who's ever tried to make me cry.
He sang his heart out!! And my daughter S, who adores her brother - yelled out in the audience in that split second before they started singing "I miss my T...Hi T....". Everyone started cracking up, it was really funny.
When I have moments like these, I often think of parents who aren't there for their kids, or who don't revel and enjoy their children as they should. And I feel so sad for them. They just don't know what they're missing. There is nothing like seeing your child grow and re-living your life through them - and feeling the unbelievable sense of pride that comes with seeing that little life blossom.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
All is calm.....all is bright.....
Growing up, I lived in an apartment in a house. We moved a few times when I was younger, but we weren't able at that time to afford our own home. It was far more difficult to buy a house back then, then it is now and my Dad was self employed - which back then made it nearly impossible to buy anything. Who am I kidding - it's become far easier to buy a house in the last 10 years than it ever was before. But I digress... So, as a kid we weren't able to put lights on our house during Christmas. Or maybe we could've - but it would've been quite a hassle for my parents and where it wasn't their house...more of a bother than what they would've wanted to deal with. So instead like most families, we used to drive around and look at all the houses that were lit up and decorated. I loved that - one of my favorite parts of the holiday season.This year, while not my first year owning a home by any stretch - is the first year that I have lights on my own house! There's a company that does our landscaping - that also does Christmas lights now. It's very inexpensive...they set it all up, put it on a timer - and take it down at the end of the season. And what's even better is that when you order next year they give you a discount so that everything is less expensive each year you use them, which allows you to build on if you so choose to. Pretty nice!
I take my kids out one or two nights a week after dinner to look at the lights. I get them into their cozy clothes...fill a cup with hot cocoa and go to different neighborhoods and towns to go look at the lights. And while they love turning the corner to our street and seeing our house, it's not the same for them. I'm the one who is really excited when I see my own house aglow.
Your Christmas is Most Like: A Charlie Brown Christmas |
 Each year, you really get into the spirit of Christmas. |
Monday, December 11, 2006
It's beginning to look alot like.....baseball!!
Last night before I went to bed I watched Red Sox Weekly, and they were interviewing (sigh.....) Jason Varitek. They asked him a variety of questions including if he's going to learn Japanese so that he can communicate well with DMat. What I found so very interesting was that when he answered, there was no "Well, we don't know what's happening yet...." or "We'll have to wait and see if we sign him", or anything to that effect. He was very comfortable with answering all of the questions regarding Matsuzaka and spoke as if there was no doubt he was going to be in the rotation next year. I personally feel that we will be signing him, despite all the negativity that's been floating around. I just find it hard to believe that the Sox would pay $50 some odd million to talk to the guy and then only offer $8 million a year. I think they're stuck on the amount of years and free agency - but hey, what do I know? Only time will tell, but Jason surely came across as if it was a no brainer. I've been avoiding watching tapes of DMat, just incase things do fall apart. But I saw a bit of him last night and he is NASTY. It would be very exciting if he is as good as he appears - and can handle the culture change and the environment of being in the Boston market. Which leads me to....Manny is still a Red Sox!!! I'm so glad nothing has been coming through with regards to trade talks. There is no one that could come close to replacing him in the lineup - and I love, love, love watching him. "Manny being Manny" is part of his charm. I'll take him and his drama any day. He's well worth it.
Saturday, December 09, 2006
'Tis the season to be jolly...
Last night was our Holiday potluck...the gathering of the "Aunties"..... and as always, it was a great time. It's been far too long since we've all been able to get together - and even this time we were missing two. But we were thinking of them anyway. I don't think I've eaten that much dessert in a long, long time - and I think I'm paying for it today! Or could it be all that I drank....? We did our ornament swap..... and clearly, some of us have great minds that think alike, as the three of us ended up with the same ornaments, or variations of a theme anyway!
And one of the girls made us all a gift. Something that we'll all treasure....and something that I think we need to bring with us in 4 or 5 years to a holiday gathering and compare what we've done with them. She made us each a scrapbook with a calendar on one side marking everyone's birthdays, and scrap book pages for adding photos on the other side. She also made pages of some of our favorite thoughts and recognizable quotes....as well as a page of wishes that we all had. She had emailed us a few weeks back and asked for some of our favorite memories of the times we've spent together.... as well as quotes and three wishes. She put so much time and thought and effort into this, and it was really touching. We went around the room reading which quotes and phrases belonged to us, and it was fun to relive it all again. I love, love, love gifts like this and it's something that I will always treasure.
Most of the girls in the group have been friends since junior high....some since high school. I came along a little later than that, and I'm so very thankful that our paths crossed when they did. I couldn't imagine life without them.
Thursday, December 07, 2006
So close and yet so far.....
I've been growing my hair for the past year for Locks of Love and I'm trying so hard to be patient. It's definitely long enough to do now -- you donate 10" of hair. But if I did it today (which I have to be honest, I almost did!) my hair would be right above shoulder length. My stylist thinks that by February or March, it will be long enough to cut and have it be at a length that I will feel comfortable with. I took about 1/4 inch off today to freshen it up a bit, but it's at that point where I almost can't stand it anymore. If I can just hang on for a few more months, I'll be good for the donation, and I'll feel really good that I was able to do it - and maybe even still like my hair afterwards. Trust me, there's nothing worse than getting a hair cut and hating it. It's like being in a Halloween costume that you can't get out of. I spent a lifetime of bad hair cuts when I was a teenager. Always changing my hair color, my style.....finally in my early 20's I settled into a more traditional appearance. So I know what it's like to hate my hair, and I don't miss that feeling at all. To be selfless, yet selfish at the same time....this is the game I'm playing at the moment.
There is another organization - I'm not sure of the name of it - but they only need 8" instead of 10. If I can find out who they are, I may donate to them instead and cut this mane down a bit sooner rather than later. One would think that with the internet as it is, it should be a no brainer to find them. And yet, I'm struggling.
There is another organization - I'm not sure of the name of it - but they only need 8" instead of 10. If I can find out who they are, I may donate to them instead and cut this mane down a bit sooner rather than later. One would think that with the internet as it is, it should be a no brainer to find them. And yet, I'm struggling.
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Ain't nothin' but a groove thang.....
As anyone who knows me knows.....music is a huge part of my life.
Well clearly - someone else got the hint about that as well!
I don't know how they got my information but for the past 4 months, I've been doing monthly surveys for Boston radio stations. They play me snippets of songs currently in the rotation and have me rate them and help them determine how "over played" they are or aren't. How awesome is that?!?! Then, they play me new songs that are coming and ask me to rate them as well.
So last night was my monthly survey for December. Here are some of the songs that I said I either disliked - or are dead, tired, overplayed and should be put to rest. I'm sure there are more - but these are the ones that are lingering with me:
"Hips don't lie" - Shakira : Ugh, if I hear this song one more time, I think I'm going to throw up
"My Love" - Justin Timberlake : This CD is god awful. "Sexy Back" was good but the rest of it makes me cringe. Whatever was he thinking?!?!
"Wind it Up" - Gwen Stefani: Listen, that stupid "Bananas" song irritated me. This one makes me want to send her hate mail. Whatever happened to the Ska/Punk Gwen? I loved her!!
"Call Me When You're Sober" - Evanescence: Okay. I loved, loved, loved their first CD. I thought they were the second coming of old Queensryche. But I can't stand it when a song is beat into the ground. And this one my friends.....is beaten and buried.
"Waiting on the World to Change" - John Mayer: I don't care for him anyway. But this is a song that I'm waiting for the world to throw away.
"Crazy" - Gnarls Barkley: One phrase to capture this song for me -- "nails across a chalkboard".
"Suddenly I see" & "The Cherry Tree" KT Tunstall: Could they play these songs ANY more frequently???? Enough already.
"Maneater" - Nelly Furtado: How about someone eats that girl and we never hear from her again?
So while my vote in politics may not have nearly the impact as I wish it would....here is a forum where my vote seems to really matter!
Now if only I could find someone to interview me for naming OPI nail polishes......
Well clearly - someone else got the hint about that as well!
I don't know how they got my information but for the past 4 months, I've been doing monthly surveys for Boston radio stations. They play me snippets of songs currently in the rotation and have me rate them and help them determine how "over played" they are or aren't. How awesome is that?!?! Then, they play me new songs that are coming and ask me to rate them as well.
So last night was my monthly survey for December. Here are some of the songs that I said I either disliked - or are dead, tired, overplayed and should be put to rest. I'm sure there are more - but these are the ones that are lingering with me:
"Hips don't lie" - Shakira : Ugh, if I hear this song one more time, I think I'm going to throw up
"My Love" - Justin Timberlake : This CD is god awful. "Sexy Back" was good but the rest of it makes me cringe. Whatever was he thinking?!?!
"Wind it Up" - Gwen Stefani: Listen, that stupid "Bananas" song irritated me. This one makes me want to send her hate mail. Whatever happened to the Ska/Punk Gwen? I loved her!!
"Call Me When You're Sober" - Evanescence: Okay. I loved, loved, loved their first CD. I thought they were the second coming of old Queensryche. But I can't stand it when a song is beat into the ground. And this one my friends.....is beaten and buried.
"Waiting on the World to Change" - John Mayer: I don't care for him anyway. But this is a song that I'm waiting for the world to throw away.
"Crazy" - Gnarls Barkley: One phrase to capture this song for me -- "nails across a chalkboard".
"Suddenly I see" & "The Cherry Tree" KT Tunstall: Could they play these songs ANY more frequently???? Enough already.
"Maneater" - Nelly Furtado: How about someone eats that girl and we never hear from her again?
So while my vote in politics may not have nearly the impact as I wish it would....here is a forum where my vote seems to really matter!
Now if only I could find someone to interview me for naming OPI nail polishes......
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
I'm too sexy for my shirt.....
So, Friday night we had a holiday party at one of my girlfriend's houses. She just recently started her own catering business and is really doing very well with it, and also recently renovated her house; so she's been wanting to have a get together there with as many of her friends as possible, so she opted to have a holiday party. It was a great time, the house looked gorgeous - the food was excellent. And of course the company was wonderful.....and interesting. She has a "friend" whom we'd never met before. She's a neighbor of hers, and they get together from time to time, which is always a nice way to make new friends. So anyway, she comes to the party and she's an attractive girl, has a very pretty face.... and is wearing no top. Well, practically no top. As one of the girls pointed out - it was more like two doilies stitched together and slapped on than a shirt. Completely open with her bra showing through. Whew - I guess in retrospect I'm glad she wore a bra! And I know this is going to come out catty....and I don't mean it that way. Okay, maybe a little meow here.....She really is in no shape to be wearing a top like this. Which, no one might have noticed had she chosen to not be practically topless. And to top it off (no pun intended!)....she's complaining of how cold she is. Hmmmmm. I'm thinking: "Wear a shirt, and you won't be cold". But again, she was friendly and nice - so really does it matter that she didn't choose to wear a shirt to a social event where she'd never met anyone before?
Seems she's a sex toy party host. I left before that little tidbit was revealed, and I guess once the alcohol kicked in she was in rare form - though I wasn't there to witness it. But must've been interesting because here it is two days later, and we're still chit chatting about it. Anyway... clearly it takes all types to make the world go 'round....and if anyone's in the market for an adult toy party - I may know someone I can get you in touch with!
So this is a shot of some of us from close to the end of the night....I haven't heard from my paparazzi source, so I can't confirm this -- but I'm thinking the reason why it's cropped the way it is might have something to do with the shirt - or the "lack there of"....
Seems she's a sex toy party host. I left before that little tidbit was revealed, and I guess once the alcohol kicked in she was in rare form - though I wasn't there to witness it. But must've been interesting because here it is two days later, and we're still chit chatting about it. Anyway... clearly it takes all types to make the world go 'round....and if anyone's in the market for an adult toy party - I may know someone I can get you in touch with!
So this is a shot of some of us from close to the end of the night....I haven't heard from my paparazzi source, so I can't confirm this -- but I'm thinking the reason why it's cropped the way it is might have something to do with the shirt - or the "lack there of"....
Monday, December 04, 2006
Monday Mish-Mash....
1. "What would you do for a Klondike Bar?" Um, nothing. Ugh, I can't get that stupid jingle out of my head!
2. I'm off Thursday and Friday of this week.... and I'm so very much looking forward to it. Especially Friday, where I get to go Christmas shopping! I love shopping during work days, the stores are quiet and I get so much more accomplished! And, I've been really busy at work lately - I could use the time off.
3. I'm hoping to squeeze another 5k in before the snow really falls around here and stays. There was one at work today, but I didn't get the details on it until Friday and I already had things lined up for this morning so I missed out. I really enjoy running. Funny how I started doing it because I sorely needed a hobby - and I really enjoy it. Some days I might only run 3/4 of a mile - some days I'll run 2. But no matter what, it always clears my head and makes me feel great. It's definitely addictive.....
4. The "gathering of the girls" is this coming Friday night. I'm so looking forward to it. And it's our "Holiday Soiree", hahaha. So lots of laughs, lots of memories to be made....definitely lots of pictures! We're trying to nail down a few different charities we want to donate to. I donate year round to a variety of organizations, but I think I'm going to donate my portion to the battered women and children's shelter. I've always wanted to donate to one and it's quite difficult to get the locations of them, because obviously - they don't publicize that information. But one of the girl's husbands is a police officer and so she was able to provide some info on that type of charity. So many women and children escape their own personal hells at the holidays, leaving all their toys and belongings behind - or not having a holiday at all. It's just something I've always wanted to do for them.
5. Speaking of the girls, some of us got together this past Saturday night at a holiday party. Great time as always....lots of fun, and look for a picture coming soon. The paparazzi was there (naturally, as we are celebrities! hahahaa) so some good group shots should be circulating via email at some point today.
6. Nothing like weather in New England....it rained, snowed - and now the sun is shining. Gotta love it!
7. "Made in Heaven"....now that's a movie I haven't seen in quite some time. I used to love it. I think I need to rent it and watch it again...it's on my mind.
8. Dunkin Donuts wheat bagels....had one today. Gotta tell you - they're not that bad. I eat my bagels like they were donuts....cold, plain and whole. Sort of like a donut --- but not.
9. Tomorrow is most definitely going to be a pony tail day....I can already feel it.
10. I've recently rediscovered why I don't watch the NHL anymore. I hate the rules. They've changed the game so much that it's no longer enjoyable for me. What's up with the stupid shootouts in lieu of having a tie?? Hate it. I'm sorry - but I gave up my Bruin's seasons tickets in '96 and now I remember why. Back then, it was just because they were lousy. Now, they're still lousy - the management is still all screwed up - and ugh, I don't like the "kinder, gentler" hockey with their new rules.
What's on your mind?
2. I'm off Thursday and Friday of this week.... and I'm so very much looking forward to it. Especially Friday, where I get to go Christmas shopping! I love shopping during work days, the stores are quiet and I get so much more accomplished! And, I've been really busy at work lately - I could use the time off.
3. I'm hoping to squeeze another 5k in before the snow really falls around here and stays. There was one at work today, but I didn't get the details on it until Friday and I already had things lined up for this morning so I missed out. I really enjoy running. Funny how I started doing it because I sorely needed a hobby - and I really enjoy it. Some days I might only run 3/4 of a mile - some days I'll run 2. But no matter what, it always clears my head and makes me feel great. It's definitely addictive.....
4. The "gathering of the girls" is this coming Friday night. I'm so looking forward to it. And it's our "Holiday Soiree", hahaha. So lots of laughs, lots of memories to be made....definitely lots of pictures! We're trying to nail down a few different charities we want to donate to. I donate year round to a variety of organizations, but I think I'm going to donate my portion to the battered women and children's shelter. I've always wanted to donate to one and it's quite difficult to get the locations of them, because obviously - they don't publicize that information. But one of the girl's husbands is a police officer and so she was able to provide some info on that type of charity. So many women and children escape their own personal hells at the holidays, leaving all their toys and belongings behind - or not having a holiday at all. It's just something I've always wanted to do for them.
5. Speaking of the girls, some of us got together this past Saturday night at a holiday party. Great time as always....lots of fun, and look for a picture coming soon. The paparazzi was there (naturally, as we are celebrities! hahahaa) so some good group shots should be circulating via email at some point today.
6. Nothing like weather in New England....it rained, snowed - and now the sun is shining. Gotta love it!
7. "Made in Heaven"....now that's a movie I haven't seen in quite some time. I used to love it. I think I need to rent it and watch it again...it's on my mind.
8. Dunkin Donuts wheat bagels....had one today. Gotta tell you - they're not that bad. I eat my bagels like they were donuts....cold, plain and whole. Sort of like a donut --- but not.
9. Tomorrow is most definitely going to be a pony tail day....I can already feel it.
10. I've recently rediscovered why I don't watch the NHL anymore. I hate the rules. They've changed the game so much that it's no longer enjoyable for me. What's up with the stupid shootouts in lieu of having a tie?? Hate it. I'm sorry - but I gave up my Bruin's seasons tickets in '96 and now I remember why. Back then, it was just because they were lousy. Now, they're still lousy - the management is still all screwed up - and ugh, I don't like the "kinder, gentler" hockey with their new rules.
What's on your mind?
Sunday, December 03, 2006
A girl's best friend....
On Friday, my dog Brandy started this odd coughing. It almost was like a gagging or choking - but the more I watched her do it, the more I thought it might be a collapsed windpipe or something to that effect. It wasn't getting any better, and so my vet (who comes to my house, love her!) came over yesterday to see her.
The long and the short of it is....Brandy has a Grade 5 (1 being least, 6 being worst) heart murmur on both sides of her heart. Her heart beat, which I listened to - doesn't sound like a heart beat, but more of a "whoosh whoosh". If you've ever heard a baby's heartbeat while inutero, you'd recognize the sound. It is muffled, and doesn't sound like a true heart beat, but yet has the rhythm of one. This cough, is her body's way of creating more oxygen for her. And the vet could tell what it was going to be prior to even listening to her heart, because her breath was an indicator of something not right (outside of needing a bad brushing!). This can not be reversed...and while we may be able to keep it at bay for a short time with medicine, she will eventually die from this - either by suffocation, organ failure or heart attack.
We're having an echocardiogram done Friday to see the severity and to confirm that it is as bad as it seems - or hopefully, to maybe see if it's not as bad as it seems. If it is though...and that is something I have to think about - I'm more inclined to put her down gracefully than to have my children potentially either come home to find her gone, or even worse - see it happen.
She's only 10, rather young for a Jack Russell. And it came on so very quickly. The vet said since she didn't have this murmur last year, she more than likely may already have an infection that triggered the cough. Just like in people, when you have a severe murmur you need to be on antibiotics because you are prone to infections. I hadn't been expecting this, I sort of thought it was going to be something rather benign, like she ate something she wasn't supposed to and it was lodged or something like that.
My head and my own heart still hurts from thinking about it.
The long and the short of it is....Brandy has a Grade 5 (1 being least, 6 being worst) heart murmur on both sides of her heart. Her heart beat, which I listened to - doesn't sound like a heart beat, but more of a "whoosh whoosh". If you've ever heard a baby's heartbeat while inutero, you'd recognize the sound. It is muffled, and doesn't sound like a true heart beat, but yet has the rhythm of one. This cough, is her body's way of creating more oxygen for her. And the vet could tell what it was going to be prior to even listening to her heart, because her breath was an indicator of something not right (outside of needing a bad brushing!). This can not be reversed...and while we may be able to keep it at bay for a short time with medicine, she will eventually die from this - either by suffocation, organ failure or heart attack.
We're having an echocardiogram done Friday to see the severity and to confirm that it is as bad as it seems - or hopefully, to maybe see if it's not as bad as it seems. If it is though...and that is something I have to think about - I'm more inclined to put her down gracefully than to have my children potentially either come home to find her gone, or even worse - see it happen.
She's only 10, rather young for a Jack Russell. And it came on so very quickly. The vet said since she didn't have this murmur last year, she more than likely may already have an infection that triggered the cough. Just like in people, when you have a severe murmur you need to be on antibiotics because you are prone to infections. I hadn't been expecting this, I sort of thought it was going to be something rather benign, like she ate something she wasn't supposed to and it was lodged or something like that.
My head and my own heart still hurts from thinking about it.
Friday, December 01, 2006
Weird, wacky and wild....
Chesney Girl has tagged me to list 6 weird facts about myself. I'm not going to tag anyone in particular, so if you feel like playing - take it - and let me know if you did it so I can see how odd you are as well!
Previously, I did this little tasker all on my own because of a children's show that inspired me... So here for your amusement are 6 more "Ridiculous Quirks and Habits of Rebecca"....
1. I have a penchant for sharpie marker pens. For some reason, I think they make my handwriting look prettier.
2. A few days before I come down with a cold, my bottom lip gets really full; so much so, that I tend to chew at it a bit because it's in the way! And then - it seems even fuller. Weird.
3. I love banana splits - dried banana chips, banana milkshakes - anything with bananas. But peel me a banana and hand it to me? No thank you.
4. I can't help gawking like a schoolgirl when a group of motorcycles ride by....that is the sound of summer, my friends.
5. I have to organize all my photographs in chronological order. It will absolutely bother me if I don't - and I'll rearrange the whole damn album if I have to so that it works.
6. I'm an absolute road rage driver when I'm alone. I love nothing more than to bust 'em on someone who is a jerk on the road. Say someone thinks I'm not driving fast enough and they ride up the rear? hahhaha, I'll slow down to 25 miles an hour....and then when they try to pass me - I speed up so they can't cut over. And then I'll smile and wave - maybe even blow them a kiss. I know - it's wrong. But I can't help it - I'm from Boston!
Previously, I did this little tasker all on my own because of a children's show that inspired me... So here for your amusement are 6 more "Ridiculous Quirks and Habits of Rebecca"....
1. I have a penchant for sharpie marker pens. For some reason, I think they make my handwriting look prettier.
2. A few days before I come down with a cold, my bottom lip gets really full; so much so, that I tend to chew at it a bit because it's in the way! And then - it seems even fuller. Weird.
3. I love banana splits - dried banana chips, banana milkshakes - anything with bananas. But peel me a banana and hand it to me? No thank you.
4. I can't help gawking like a schoolgirl when a group of motorcycles ride by....that is the sound of summer, my friends.
5. I have to organize all my photographs in chronological order. It will absolutely bother me if I don't - and I'll rearrange the whole damn album if I have to so that it works.
6. I'm an absolute road rage driver when I'm alone. I love nothing more than to bust 'em on someone who is a jerk on the road. Say someone thinks I'm not driving fast enough and they ride up the rear? hahhaha, I'll slow down to 25 miles an hour....and then when they try to pass me - I speed up so they can't cut over. And then I'll smile and wave - maybe even blow them a kiss. I know - it's wrong. But I can't help it - I'm from Boston!
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