Let's Sum It Up

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We get busy.  It happens.  Sometimes we miss reading posts from our favorite bloggers.  My friend and fellow blogger, Elly Stornebrink, had a great idea suggesting we share highlights from our blog posts for the past week.  So................Let's Sum It Up!

For those of you that may have missed them, hopefully you will have a chance to take a peek and comment.  I LOVE your comments and always respond within twenty-four hours.  That's how friendships are formed, right?

Sunday, November 1:  Let Me Drop Everything and Work On Your Problem   I loved this post, especially the coffee mug that said:

Did You Ever Have A Day That Changed Your Life Forever?

When you get up in the morning, do you ever expect that particular day to change your life forever? Not normally.  Is there any way to prepare for a day like that?  I doubt it.  Do we ever get a reset button to start the day over?  Unfortunately, no!

I had one of those days.  One was definitely ENOUGH!  

The silence was deafening. The only sounds I heard were coming from inside my head. I could hear the blood rushing through my veins from the palpitations of my heart. My sweater was moving to the uneven rhythm. I had to keep telling myself to remain calm. I must not appear flustered or guilty. I tried taking deep breaths to slow down the pace of my heart which took every ounce of my strength and fortitude. I grabbed my knees with both hands in an effort to stop them from shaking. But that didn’t seem to help, and fear prevented me from thinking rationally.

I was in a police station, alone, and scared. The holding room was like a phone booth with no windows. I was sweltering under a choking fog of body odor and stale cigarette smoke. Nausea swept over me and I had to force myself to take a breath.

"You wait here,” a man said gruffly. Then the door was slammed shut and locked. That sound resonated through me and I felt as though my life was ending. It sent shivers up my spine and made me shudder. I could not explain my emotions or why I was so scared because I wasn’t even sure what was going on. My mind raced. It was an emotional whiplash between “why” and “what if.” What was going to happen? Why were they holding me? The questions wouldn’t stop and I could not think clearly. I felt sick to my stomach completely oblivious to the fact that deep within my belly, new life was growing.

The Cops Called and Left A Message

"This is Officer Colt and I would appreciate it if you would contact me as soon as possible."  That was the message left on a Friday afternoon.  What is the first thing that runs through your mind when a cop calls and leaves a message? 

"What's wrong?"  "Who's in trouble?"  "Who is in the hospital?"  Of course I called right back but I would have to speak directly with Officer Colt and he was out of the office until Tuesday.  Every negative scenario I could think of terrified me.  At dinner I asked my husband, "Do you have a bunch of parking tickets you threw away?"  "NO!" That's good...... I guess.  I still didn't know what was wrong and it drove me nuts all weekend.

How Can You Leave Me? I Love You Too Much

"TAKE THAT BACK!"  I screamed to myself but it was too late to recant.  What was said, was said.  What's done is done.  I knew how much the words had hurt.  Why did I say them?  Why hadn't I bit my tongue?

It was autumn, my favorite time of year.  I don't appreciate the heat of summer so taking long hikes were reserved for summer's end.  My closest friend and I would often make a day of it.  I would pack a lunch and we would head up the mountain.  We were both a bit too old to walk that far, but would drive as far as we safely could and then hike a bit farther.

Saying Goodbye To Our Dog, Our Friend

Willow.  Six years ago this baby girl was tied to a fence with a coat hanger waiting for the "dog disposer" to pick her up.  Who could imagine the rejection this gentle creature must have felt?  It was obvious she had been abused.

It was Easter four years ago.  Rochelle was visiting us when she got the call from her hubby who was working in the Arctic North.  "Now, please don't be angry with me but I got us another dog."  I watched Rochelle's mouth tighten and the air was tense.  She had three dogs and a cat and certainly did not need another one.  They argued about it for a few minutes.  When she got off the phone, it was clear she lost the battle.

Great way for a Husky to cool off

Letter To My Aging Dog

Dear Precious Mercedez:

When we went for our walk today, you YAWNED.  I couldn't believe it.  Walking was always your favorite pastime.  I looked at you and realized you were tired - aging and BONE tired.  It was hot outside and you wanted the coolness of your room. 

Was it that long ago when I came home from work, you would run in circles with great anticipation of a walk?  Didn't matter what the weather was like -- didn't matter if it was dinner time. What mattered was Mom was home and you could now go for a walk. Weekends were even more exciting. Weekends meant a trip in the Jeep to the mountain where you could run until you were ready to collapse.  The last time I took you on one of those runs, three wolves crossed our path and I decided we would rethink this weekend trek.

Then it happened.  I came home from work one day and the throw rugs in the entry way were askew. When I walked into the kitchen, the rugs in there were in a pile.  What on earth happened?  And where were you?  You didn't come running to the door, leash in your mouth, tail wagging.

Be Honest - We Love To Know What Goes On Behind Closed Doors

Come on... be honest.  You know you would like to know what goes on in other blogger's homes!  Here's your chance.  Join us each month at Fly On The Wall and you can see what goes on 'behind the scenes.' Here are some highlights of my past month:

The Pencil Skirt

I was asked to speak at a prestigious women's club and needed a new outfit.  I found the most gorgeous deep purple knit pencil skirt with a lighter shade sheer shirt.  I had the shirt altered by 'pleating' the back to make it even more stunning.  All set, and I was so pleased with the snug fit of the skirt.

After the meeting, I noticed that the skirt was sagging in the back and took it to the store, complaining.  The lady asked if I wanted a refund and I said "No, I want a replacement that will not lose it's shape."  She said she couldn't do that but would give me a 30% discount.  "What good will that do me?  Can't you just call another store and find me another?"

An Interview That Digs A Little Deeper (Ask Away Friday)

Today I am swapping questions with fellow blogger, Rea Alducente of Reality Bites.  She is a beautiful young woman from a beautiful country, the Philippines.  Rea is married and has a three year old son.  She has a challenging job as a Lead Trainer in a BPO company.  She handles new hire classes helping people become better at their jobs.  Her passions are photography and blogging.  Please visit her blog - she shares her thoughts on parenting, life, happiness....... and of course, chocolates.

Here is our interview -- I loved the intense questions she asked me

I'm a Lead Trainer in a BPO company. I handle new hire classes and help people from all walks of life become better at their job, but there's actually more to that than meets the eye.  - See more at: http://www.reaalducente.com/p/abou.html#sthash.X3SwJQMD.dpuf

I'm a Lead Trainer in a BPO company. I handle new hire classes and help people from all walks of life become better at their job, but there's actually more to that than meets the eye.  - See more at: http://www.reaalducente.com/p/abou.html#sthash.X3SwJQMD.dpuf

I'm a Lead Trainer in a BPO company. I handle new hire classes and help people from all walks of life become better at their job, but there's actually more to that than meets the eye. 

- See more at: http://www.reaalducente.com/p/abou.html#sthash.X3SwJQMD.dpuf

I'm a Lead Trainer in a BPO company. I handle new hire classes and help people from all walks of life become better at their job, but there's actually more to that than meets the eye. 

- See more at: http://www.reaalducente.com/p/abou.html#sthash.X3SwJQMD.dpuf

I'm a Lead Trainer in a BPO company. I handle new hire classes and help people from all walks of life become better at their job, but there's actually more to that than meets the eye. 

- See more at: http://www.reaalducente.com/p/abou.html#sthash.X3SwJQMD.dpuf

1.  Laughter is one of your greatest weapons in dealing with life.  What makes you laugh the most?  What generally makes you frown?

One Heroic Dog's Story

One Dog's Story.  One Heroic Dog's Story. For all you dog lovers out there - this one is definitely for you. 

Meet Brutus, a military K9 at McChord.  He is the first K9 to receive the Medal of Honor for his tour in the Middle East.  Brutus tops the scales at 200 pounds.  He is part Boxer and part British Bull Mastiff - quite the combo! 

Brutus is running toward his favorite - a TREAT

Here is his incredible story:

How to Fly Through the Air With the Greatest of Ease

It was midnight.  The phone rang.  Everyone was sleeping, except me.

Last month, I was babysitting my daughter's six dogs, three sheep and her cat.  The dogs were my crew to help shepherd my new BFF, Hurley the sheep and his two lady companions.  As a thank you for my week of house and animal sitting, daughter Rochelle gave me an incredible full day at a luxurious spa.  I shared this story in 'Will a Day at the Spa remove the Smell of Sheep?'  A full ninety minute massage took me to a state of relaxation I did not know existed.  Add a facial, mani, pedi and a dip in a mineral pool; I turned into spaghetti.  Standing up took effort and I wanted to stay this relaxed forever -- or at least a day or two.

It Does Feel Like Home

"It does feel like home, doesn't it?"

"I know what you are trying to do and it won't work!"

"I did the best I could with the little I had!"

"Well, it isn't good enough.  This place will never feel like home - NEVER!"

I was hurt.  I had tried.

I don't think there was any more that I could have done.  No, it wasn't home.  My only hope is that someday she would appreciate what I had done.

She missed the old dog house – it smelled like her.  Thank God the fire did not take her as well.

This has been a 100 Word Prompt Challenge.

Linking this post to Write Tribe's 100 Words on Saturday 2014 #17, the Ultimate Blog Challenge July 2014 and NaBloPoMo.

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Amazing Astrid Asks the Questions

It's FRIDAY!  It's Ask Away Friday which is an excellent opportunity to connect and interview your fellow bloggers. Bloggers swap questions and answer them on their own blog.  We would love to have you join us.


Today I am swapping questions with Astrid.   Astrid is an amazing woman as she has had many challenges in her life that would devastate the average person.  She was born in the Netherlands, three months premature which resulted in health issues.  She is legally blind.  She also is autistic and has other neuro developmental conditions.  Yet, she maintains a phenomenal positive attitude and welcomes challenges, especially helping others who suffer from similar issues.

I am so pleased to have met her.  Here are the questions she asked me today:

My New BFF - Hurley the Sheep

Shepherdess.  What do you think of when you hear that word?  Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be tending sheep.   My daughter, Rochelle, hubby Thomas and little guy, William, live in a remote area on a large acreage.  They recently got some sheep.  They went to Hawaii.  The family....not the sheep.

"Mom, would you be able to take care of the animals while we are gone?"

"Of course, Honey.  You know I will."

"Mom......we got sheep."

"You got WHAT?"

Dogs - Y is for Your Dog

 PLEASE take the time to tell me about your dog.  Please share your stories with me and answer a few questions below.

1.  What is your favorite kind of dog?

The NUMBER ONE Reason Not to Give Commercial Pet Food to your Dog

If you love your dog, and I am sure you do or you would not be reading this post, then please consider feeding your best friend a natural food diet.   

Dogs - W is for Willow - Rescue Dog

Willow.  Part Shepherd and Part Husky?  Part Husky and Part Wolf?  We are not sure.  We also are not sure how old she is, but we do know that she is one of the most loving, gentle dogs -- ever!

It was Easter four years ago.  My daughter was home for the weekend and got the call from her hubby who was working in the Arctic North.  "Now, don't be angry with me but I got us another dog."  I watched Rochelle's mouth tighten and the air was tense.  She had three dogs and a cat and certainly did not want another one.  They argued about it for a few minutes.  When she got off the phone, it was clear she lost the battle and I had to agree with her.  

Willow and Lily, the Intimidator

Willow was her name.  It wasn't clear what mix she was and she had one blue and one black eye, kinda spooky.  She was rescued from near death as she had been chained to a dumpster and shot at, along with other dogs.  It was heart breaking to hear her story.  We weren't sure how a big dog, especially an abused one, would fit in the family of Louie, Lily, and Lola.  

Dogs - T is for Texas Poopy Pants

Texas.  Tex.  Texie Mexie.  Texus Mexus.  Poopy Pants.  Many of you will remember the story of Texas in E is for Emergency when he was brutally attacked.  Texas has had a few lives already in his 17 plus years.   Texas has sired 27 liters of pups and was Louis Vuitton's dad.  Remember Louie in Just Dream Big  and L is for Louis Vuitton .  Texas is also Grandpa to crazy Lola in Chiweenie.  Now you have a little of the family history so I will share how we came to be proud parents to Texas.

When my daughter Rochelle was 16, her boyfriend, Thomas, gave her a new puppy.....Louie.  Louie was one of the pups that Thomas' dog, Texas, had fathered.   I know many of you have fallen in love with Louie and his crazy antics like packing his suitcase!  He got his smarts from his dad, Texas.

Texas was raised in the country and herded horses to and from the pastures.  He may have been little but he was strong and spunky.  When Thomas' family moved into the city they could not take their dogs and Texas was adopted into another home.  Within a year, Thomas discovered that Tex was being mistreated by his new family and he took him back.  By this time, Thomas had a home of his own and he could keep Texas.

Do dogs choose their owners?

Thomas asked us to babysit Texas for three weeks while he was traveling.  We had just lost Babe, in Babe is Killed.  My husband was still hurting from our loss and Texas must have sensed that pain.  He attached himself to my husband like glue.  Very quickly, it was evident these two were meant for each other.  Texas never left him out of his sight.

When Thomas returned after three weeks to pick up Texas he said "C 'mon Texas, get in the truck!"

"GRRRRRRR" was Texas response.

"TEXAS, I said GET IN THE TRUCK!"

"GRRRRRRRRRRRR......WOOF WOOF!"  He growled.

Thomas took a long look at my husband and said "Guess you got yourself a dog!"  And the rest, as they say, is history.

That was eight years ago and he is still attached to hubby like a magnet.

When I listed his nicknames in the first paragraph, one was Poopy Pants.  It is a term of endearment I have given him in his old age.  If you have ever had an old dog, you know why!

Texas recovering from his brutal attack

I am participating in this year's A to Z Challenge 2014 and am sharing 26 dogs stories - one for each letter of the alphabet. 

A is for All the Dogs               B is for Babe                             C is for Charlie
D is for Dyeing Hair                E is for Emergency                   F is for Flying Snake and Flying Dogs
G is for Galloping down the road                                              H is for Hiding behind the tree
I is for The Intimidator                                                              J i for Just Dream Big
K is for Babe is Killed
L is for Louie Vuitton
M is for MercedeZ 
N is for New Addition Chiweenie 
O is for Old Fart and Other Cats 
P is for Perky 
Q is for Quincy
R is for Rusty and Rex  Black Dobermans 
S is for Sheba on the Yellow Line


It would be awesome if you would visit other blogs in this challenge.  There is a wide range of subjects posted every day and my fellow bloggers would be honored to have you drop by.

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Dogs - S is for Sheba on the Yellow Line

Sheba.  Dear Sweet Sheebie. There is something special about all the dogs in my life but Sheba was one of the sweetest.  We had been dogless for six months after putting our Sinker and Perky to sleep at the same time.  We had a new baby girl in our family but our 5 year old son had just lost his two pets and we needed to find one to fill that spot. Off to the dog pound.  

Dogs - O is for Old Fart and Other Cats That Like Baths

Old Fart.  I know he had another name but I can't remember it.  This cat was born old.  He was so laid back and gentle that nothing disturbed him.  He was pitch black and as beautiful as his calm nature.

When I vacuumed the house, he wouldn't move so I would have to push him out of the way with the vacuum and he never even flinched.  If you picked him up to hold him, he would stay there until you moved him.  

When he came in from outside one day, he reeked something awful and I told the kids we would have to bathe him.  Now, I know you have seen the hilarious stories describing what it is like to bathe a cat.  We certainly expected this from Old Fart so I wore gloves in anticipation of getting scratched.  In the bathtub, Old Fart was sitting up as I soaped him and then rinsed him off.   I was almost finished when he just fell over and was submerged under water.  My son yelled, "Mom, you killed him!"  I thought I had, but he had just FALLEN ASLEEP!

He was only a year old when I was driving out of our property and saw him lying on the side of road.  He had been hit by a car and we certainly mourned the loss of this precious, unusual kitty.

TONY

Tony.  Antonio.  My favorite cat.  Tony was such a lover.  He just wanted to sit on your lap and be cuddled.  He loved all his dog siblings and played with them endlessly.  He and Louie would play tag outside and watching it was sheer entertainment.  When we moved from the country to the city, he became very ill.  We suspected that he had somehow been poisoned.  Remember how Mercedez mourned his death for two weeks in M is for Mercedez?  Mercedez and I cried together.

TOMMY

Rochelle, my daughter, lived across the street from the S.P.C.A. and on weekends she volunteered to walk the dogs.  She fell in love with and adopted Zack, who you will hear about later.  Everyday she noticed this huge orange cat that no one wanted to adopt.  He was only a year old but weighed about 25 pounds.  He needed exercise and a diet and, you guessed it, went home with Rochelle.

When Rochelle moved to California and later to the Arctic Circle, Tommy and the rest of her brood would travel with her.  They would drive 24 hours in a stretch and Tommy would sleep the entire trip, not even asking to get out.  He is as calm as Old Fart.  I guess our cats enjoy living with all these dogs!

I am participating in this year's A to Z Challenge 2014 and am sharing 26 dogs stories - one for each letter of the alphabet. 

A is for All the Dogs               B is for Babe                             C is for Charlie
D is for Dyeing Hair                E is for Emergency                   F is for Flying Snake and Flying Dogs
G is for Galloping down the road                                              H is for Hiding behind the tree
I is for The Intimidator                                                              J i for Just Dream Big
K is for Babe is Killed
L is for Louie Vuitton
M is for MercedeZ 
N is for New Addition Chiweenie

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DOGS - K is for Babe is Killed

In this series of 26 dog posts, this will probably be the most difficult to share.  Many of you have fallen in love with Babe in B is for Babe and D is for Dyeing Hair.

On Sunday afternoons, as long as it wasn't raining too hard, we would take Babe and Mercedez up the mountain for their afternoon run.  They would get so excited when we opened the back of the Jeep and told them to jump inside.  They knew exactly where we were going.

We would drive for about one and a half miles up the mountain road and then open the back door and let them run free.  It would be extremely rare to see any other people up there.  If we ever saw anyone, they would be in a vehicle - always.  The road is an old logging road and pretty rough with pot holes and large rocks.