Notes From The Squirrel Nest

Itchy and Scratchy Show...

2012-01-29T20:25:00.001-05:00

The Storm Dog has had some sort of skin issue going on since December. It came to it's worst on New Year's Day when he couldn't cross the room without stopping to frantically dig at this sides and belly. If he wasn't digging he was licking his legs and paws.

We took him to the local animal hospital which was mercifully open on New Year's Day. He had a skin infection on top of the existing irritation. So he was put on a round of antibiotics to kill off the infection and prednizone to stop his scratching which would hopefully allow his skin time to heal.

Initially the pred did it's job but as soon as we started tapering him off the scratching returned. So back to the vet we went, this time for a skin biopsy to check for mites (there were none) and a hair sample to test for a fungal infection (still waiting on the results of that one). He was put back on the prednizone for another week.

This time the prednizone did practically nothing. So back we went for our third trip to the vet in four weeks! By this point his skin was looking pretty wonky. It's clearly irritated and there are scabs that flake off in his fur. It's on his belly, parts of his legs, his elbows (those are the worst) and in his "armpits."

The vet sent us home with a medicated shampoo and a medicated conditioning spray. Finally we seem to be making headway. He gets sprayed twice a day and bathed 3 times a week. We've been spot washing him to minimize the drying effects of so many baths. It pained me but I also gave him a "bad haircut," his scratching matted his belly hair so I trimmed most of it back and I cut the fur from his elbows so the meds can reach it better. His other hair is hiding my chop job for the moment so hopefully I won't have to cut out anymore.

It's been an upsetting month. I hate to watch him be so uncomfortable and it's doubly bad when you have no idea what caused it. It came out of absolutely nowhere. He was groomed on December 9th and came home with a 100% clean "report card," he rolled in stinky stuff at the farm so he got a second bath right before New Years. No new shampoos, no new treats only a new dog bed that was his Christmas present. I've checked with the boarding kennel and they aren't using any new cleaners.

It's a great mystery.

It's localized and clearly not contagious, the cat isn't showing any signs and neither are any of the other dogs at doggie daycare. It looks like he laid down in or walked through something. Nothing on his face, back or chest. It's seriously the weirdest thing.

I'm keeping an eye on him and if his improvement stalls I'll be taking him to our "normal" vet for a second opinion. Hopefully a new set of eyes will have a different perspective and new ideas on how to get our boy all cleared up and back to normal!

Dear Right Ankle....

2012-01-27T09:06:00.002-05:00

My left ankle is more flexible than you, why?

Since I am right handed, you should be the stronger of the two right?

Our goal over the course of our next few lessons should be for you to be more flexible, so I can sink my weight into you and steady my position. My left ankle does fine, maybe you two should talk strategy...

____

In last night's lesson I really felt myself getting back into that "groove" that I used to feel in the saddle. Now it wasn't there for the entire lesson but I definitely spent more time in my 'confident zone'. I was thrilled!!! My instructor put me back on Mac, the appaloosa. He's a sweet boy and I really enjoy riding him.

He's steady as a rock so I can regain my confidence but his steadiness is also a challenge. The challenge being that he's default speed is sloooow, I have to work to keep his pace forward so that we can jump a course without puttering out between jumps. He also does EXACTLY what you tell him, bring him to a jump at an angle that will make you miss the second in the combination? Mac will continue merrily on that path and sail right by that second jump. But, make that last second correction and he'll sail right over.

The Spring lesson schedule is coming up and I need to decide if I want to continue my Thursday night rides or switch to another day. I also received an info packet on showing, but that's a story for another day!

2012-01-25T08:51:00.000-05:00

Found this on Etsy and just HAD to add it to one of my Pinterest boards!

Now to figure out where I could hang it in our condo so I have an excuse to buy it!

Big Horses make you WORK!

2012-01-20T08:48:00.003-05:00

The last three weeks I've been riding dear gentle Ben for my lessons. His stride is very much like Buttercup's, so I settled right into his rhythm. But, have I ever mentioned his canter? It is one of the oddest things, it's not a true 3 beat. It's almost as though he is throwing a 4th beat in there somewhere and you get this oddest feeling that you are "swirling" in the saddle versus the forward movement you feel with most canters. There's some discussion that he may be somewhat gaited and that's what's causing his unique canter. I can't say for sure since I've never ridden a gaited horse!

Anyway, last night I switched back to Mic. At 16 hands he towers over little Ben and gives quite a different ride! I found last night that I got a far better workout on Mic than I ever did on Ben. I think it's trying to keep up with that long stride of his! My timing is still a bit off when I ride him but it's getting better. After a lesson spent mostly on the flat (darn those heels of mine!), my legs felt like complete jello! Those long strided horses make you work!

I applaud my instructor for making me switch horses every couple of lessons, it improves my skills and is helping me get over one of my issues - riding different horses. I used to have no fear and would hope on any and every horse I had an opportunity to. Then, I ran into a couple of horses that made me think twice about climbing aboard just any horse (getting turned into a lawn dart by a bucking horse will do that to ya!).

Horse Nation (Pic Heavy)

2012-01-13T13:52:00.000-05:00

The National Museum of the American Indian here in Washington, D.C. had a limited time exhibition detailing the relationship between native people and their horses. They showed how native peoples' lives were changed by horses and how quickly their lives became intertwined. It was one of the most interesting exhibits I have ever attended.

Here's a selection of horse masks that were worn by warrior ponies, though not in battle because they sometimes obstructed their sight.

Hand built saddles.

The bead work and time that went into crafting this blankets was incredible.

This was my favorite saddle.

This bridle set was my favorite.

More modern designs.

Simply stunning.

I wish the exhibition had not ended January 7 so I could go back and take another look at it!

A little something to think about...

2011-12-30T09:42:00.000-05:00

I found this neat saying on the blog Natalie's Sentiments via Pinterest. Gave me a little something to think about when I get down on myself which is easy to do when everything is shared online...

And on a fun note, something I've kept ~~threatening~~ promising to post - a pic of me aboard one of my lesson horses! This is Ben, a darling QH cross. I do believe I'm in love with this little guy.

Festival of the Last Minute!

2011-12-22T14:41:00.000-05:00

Happy Holidays from my critter crew!

Everything is falling into place nicely for our holiday, which is a welcome change from the start of the month! Miss Maddie Cat ended up with a bacterial and fungal infection in her ears, so we got to enjoy a 10-day medication rodeo. I am happy to report that she is back to 100% and is ready to enjoy the holidays.

This year I volunteered to cook three dishes for our family Christmas dinners, I'll be attempting the Pioneer Woman's creamy mashed potatoes for the first time and I'll be in charge of the green bean casserole. I love me some green bean casserole, I think it's those fried onions on top. Yummmmmmmy!

My third dish will be my hardest. I've decided to try to re-create the white potato pie that my grandmother used to make. As a kid I can remember walking through her dining room past a table COVERED with all the pies she would bake to give as gifts and serve for holiday dinner. She made the standard pumpkin and sweet potato pies but she also made white potato pie. You don't see those too often and I figured this year, our 15th Christmas since she passed away, to bring a little bit of her back to our holiday table. I found a recipe online and I hope to channel a bit of my Mom-Mom as I bake it for our family. Wish me luck!

Speaking of baking, for those of you who may be looking for a last minute neighbor gift or a little something to bring to your holiday table, allow me to suggest two simple yet amazingly tasty treats to try.

First up, peppermint bark.

My friend Cara introduced me to this little gem of a recipe over on her blog - i-dabble

It really couldn't be easier, you need 2 lbs of the chocolate of your choice and 1 cup of crushed candy canes (that's about 6-8 of the regular sized candy canes). Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave (be careful not to burn it like I did!). When the chocolate is smooth, add the candy canes and mix thoroughly. Spread it evenly on a parchment covered cookie sheet and allow to cool. Once it's cool, break it into pieces and prepare to become the most popular baker on the block!

The second- 3 minute, 3 ingredient fudge

I have to thank Dana over at MADE for this one.

You need a can of sweetened condensed milk and two bags of chocolate chips. That's it!

Here's the fun part, you can totally customize this - I made three batches, chocolate (2 bags of chocolate chips), peppermint (a bag of chocolate chips and a pack of Andes chocolate mints) and peanut butter (1 bag chocolate, 1 bag peanut butter chips). For the peppermint, I added a fourth ingredient- coarsely crushed candy candy canes as topping. The peppermint was a HUGE hit at doggie daycare, I had to bring a second batch since the first was inhaled by the front desk staff.

Anyway- back to the recipe.

Pour the chips and the condensed milk in a bowl and mix thoroughly. With your microwave on the medium setting, heat the mixture for 3 minutes (keep an eye on it so it doesn't burn!). Once it's melted give it another good stir and pour into a 9x6 pan and you're done! Once it's cool, cut it up into little pieces and store any leftovers in a sealed bag in the fridge!

See?!

Told ya it was easy!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

What's Up?

2011-11-22T09:49:00.001-05:00

I've been rather sporadic with my blog posts... I just haven't felt like life has handed me anything particularly noteworthy to report.

My lessons continue to progress, my last two lessons have bene on a 16 hand gray quarter horse gelding named Mic. He's a nice step up from my spotted Mac, and is helping me build my confidence up. My trainer is going to keep switching mounts for me so I can replace that nervous feeling I get with a new mount with confidence in my riding abilities.

I think it's working!

The holidays are right around the corner, can't believe it's nearly Thanksgiving and that Christmas is only a few short weeks away. My how time has flown.

I guess October 2012 will be here before I know it and I'll be preparing to walk down the aisle.

Time flies when you're having fun!

I'll try to snap some glamour shots of Miss Buttercup this weekend so everyone can see how she's doing. I'll make sure that Miss Maddie Cat and Storm Dog will make an appearance too. The gang will be all together for the holidays- that should make for a fun adventure!

Another Great Lesson!

2011-11-04T11:03:00.001-04:00

My confidence had improved by leaps and bounds when I saddled up for this lesson. I finally started to feel in sync with Mac's longer stride and I felt more confident as I asked him to move out (not so sure Mac was into my 'need for speed' though!)

We worked on getting me to sink my weight into my heels and straighten my upper body. About 10 minutes in I was really feeling the burn in my calves! My posting trot was much improved, I felt like it flowed more and wasn't so stiff and forced.

After our warm-up we moved right into jumping. Amanda my instructor wanted me to focus on letting the horse come up to me as we jumped instead of throwing myself into jump position. It just feels so smooth when you let the horse's momentum carry you into jump position instead of forcing yourself out of the saddle and into position. Double bonus- my weight is in my heels and not on my knuckles and his neck!

We warmed up over a small cross rail and quickly moved on to a series of verticals. Our first pass I didn't have enough speed coming into the first jump and we lost momentum through the second and broke into a trot. Our next pass I got the momentum I wanted but Mac threw in a fourth stride between fences one and two. My instructor complimented me on my ability to stay out of Mac's way when I thought he was going to jump after three strides. She said it was just about perfect! I kept my seat and rode him through and kept our canter afterwards!

Lovely!

My biggest accomplishment of the night was not losing my stirrups AT ALL. A common problem I had in my eval lesson as well as my lessons as a kid was keeping my stirrups at the canter. My heels tend to creep up (especially on my outside leg!) and I lose a stirrup. This lesson my heels were down nicely and those stirrups stayed where they needed to be!

Can't wait for next week!

Lessons!

2011-10-25T14:15:00.001-04:00

Lessons...

I've learned some, I'm signing up for some...

Lesson Learned - When Dover Saddlery has a "tent sale" don't show up thinking you'll breeze through, pick up some super cheap horsey items and fly out the door. Expect looooong lines and general chaos. But hey, I got an Ariat Show shirt, a pair of breeches, a quilted riding vest, 4 new brushes, coordinating boot, jacket, helmet and duffle bags, 3 months worth of dewormer and 30 lbs. of peppermint horse treats for $230. Saved about $300 based on the 'original ticket price' but I still had to stand in the checkout line for 2 hours! Got an awesome arm workout too... 30 lbs of horse treats gets heavy really quick!

Lesson Sign Up - I'm signing up for weekly riding lessons. It felt sooo good to be back in the saddle, we'll see how it goes but I am feeling like this is my new horseback riding outlet. I'm looking forward to getting that mojo back and enjoying my weekly private lesson! Stay tuned and maybe when I get going, I'll drag GB along to snap some pictures!

I survived!

2011-10-14T11:10:00.000-04:00

My first riding lesson in YEARS went exceptionally well last night. It took GB and I a couple of tries to find the farm, it has a driveway that's tucked in between two homes. We drove right past it at first!

Once located, a nice winding driveway lead us to a cute little horse farm. The barn was bright and lined with great box stalls with lots of cute faces hanging out waiting for attention. A nice alleyway led from the barn directly into the indoor arena. There was also an outdoor arena available and apparently they have access to trails. Who knew this little gem was tucked back here!

I will admit I was nervous hanging out in the parking lot. I didn't want to make a total fool of myself.

I should have known they would take care of me! They gave me the best lesson horse they have. His name was Mac and it was a great match. I knew it as soon as I walked up to his stall because saw an adorable roaned face and a body covered in spots!

An APPY!!

Mac is a 28 year old gelding who loves life as a lesson horse but, according to the instructor, doesn't particularly like shows. He likes his steady, quiet job on the farm. No need to be flashy. He's my kind of guy!

I mounted up and began my lesson. Mac has a longer stride than Buttercup and is much more methodical with his steps. He's content at whatever speed you choose, a perfect confidence builder!

After a quick warm-up we settled in for the nuts and bolts of the lesson. First up my positioning. Right off the bat my instructor told me to RELAX. She knew I was trying super hard to stay in perfect position. Instead she told me to just ride the horse, let it flow and not be so mechanical. I took a deep breath and started to focus on enjoying the ride.

Apparently I turn my left shoulder inward, so my shoulders aren't perfectly square and I round my back just slightly. I also wasn't maintaining the correct positioning of my elbows, I was looking a bit chicken winged. All things my instructor said were natural things that would happen to a rider that had a couple of falls. You start to default to self preservation.

A couple more laps and I really settled in. My back was straight, my elbows were at the right angle and my heels were down 80% of the time :o)

We stepped it up with a few laps at the canter. Dear old Mac, he just stepped right into it nice as can be! It felt wonderful! I lost my stirrup position a couple of times (those darn heels!) but overall I think we did pretty well!

We even jumped last night!! Now, they were just a couple of small verticals and a cross-rail but what a confidence booster! My first jump wasn't pretty, my weight went on my toes and I felt too much pressure on my hands. Amanda, my instructor, told me to do less for the jump. Not to fling myself into position but to let Mac's momentum and upward movement bring me into position. Rounds 2, 3 and 4 went wonderfully after that piece of advice! I still need to work on maintaining balance between jumps but that will come with practice!

I'm looking forward to maybe starting to take regular lessons. It really felt great last night. I felt that familiar burn in my muscles as I worked my calves and my core. Anyone who thinks the horse does all the work is sadly mistaken!

I've gone and done it now...

2011-10-06T14:05:00.003-04:00

I signed myself up for an horseback riding evaluation.

Yes I've ridden for close to 20 years. Yes I've owned a horse for 15, going on 16, of those years.

But, I miss riding. I love my walks with Buttercup. I love grooming her and just spending time with her, in fact I feel like my relationship with her is happier now (she actually meets me at the gate!)

But, I miss that time in the saddle. The view between two pricked ears. And, I have come to realize I have developed some issues with my riding. My heels pop up from time to time and my sense of balance isn't what it used to be.

I've taken a couple of hard falls. I'm not as confident as I used to be, I used to hop on any horse at anytime. Now, I find myself pining to ride Buttercup. I KNOW her- her stride, her tendencies. Mounting any other horse causes me to pause and think "what if?"

I want my riding mojo back.

Getting an independent evaluation might be just the ticket!

So, next Thursday I'll be pulling down the stirrups on a English saddle and mounting a lesson horse. My first lesson in 15 years...

Wish me luck!

Breathe...

2011-09-29T16:25:00.001-04:00

A work project that basically swallowed my life for the last month went out the door today.

Want proof it swallowed my life?

I signed my timesheet this morning and noted in the last two weeks I worked 100 and a half ours. I know for some that's just a regular work week but couple that with the 90 minute commute in and out of D.C. (that's 90 minutes each way) I didn't exactly get a whole bunch of at home time.

But it's over...

I can finally take a breath and start to return to my regularly scheduled life.

Be on the lookout for updates in the future.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I think I am gonna go take a nap...

2011-09-11T08:00:00.000-04:00

Helmet Opinions

2011-09-09T20:27:00.001-04:00

I haven't ridden in FOREVER. In fact, if I remember correctly, the last time I really rode I fell off in a rather spectacular fall in an arena during a game of polo. That spill cracked the liner of my last Troxel and I never replaced it until now.

I've always admired the Troxel Sierras and I picked one up for myself. Here it is fresh out of the box and I'm not so sure I like it.
Does it make me look like a bubble head? Up until this helmet I've always worn helmets that resembled the traditional hunt style, this is my first "trail style" helmet. Maybe it's the difference in overall shape that is throwing me off..

What do you think? Good, bad, ugly?

Also, on the topic of helmets.

I got a big wake up call last night. My cousin's wife texted me with news that my uncle had been injured in a horseback riding accident. He was out trail riding with a group in less than ideal conditions and fell off his horse and down into a ravine. He broke several ribs and hit his head on a rock.

He's ok. He's lucky hard heads run in our family!

This is a man I've never seen come close to being unseated in all the years I've ridden with him. I mean NEVER and he's ridden some real hot horses out on trails that have shown some skills worthy of earning them a spot in a rodeo.

It was a reminder that this sport is a dangerous one. I'm not going to twist this into a "everyone should wear a helmet" speech because that's your personal decision. I've ridden lots of times without one myself. But, it does highlight that whenever you go out riding you should at least carry a cellphone and/or let someone know where you are going and what time you expect to be back just in case something happens.

More goats!

2011-09-08T17:10:00.002-04:00

The goats have come out of their shells as they have settled in, they have taken a particular liking to my brother. Maybe it's because he spends time with them just doing this (or maybe it's because he feeds them!)
My brother, just my like my Dad, is a big softie. Neither of them will ever admit it.

The crew has been officially named, from left to right it's Tiny, Blanco and S'mores.

My brother is supposed to pick up the fourth family member sometime soon, he just needs it to stop raining! Seriously, wasn't I just talking about how dry it was? Guess I better watch what I wish for 'cause in the last few weeks we've got plenty of rain plus some!

New Family Members

2011-09-02T13:45:00.002-04:00

My brother added a trio of wethers to his family of critters this week. The kiddies will be over the moon excited when they meet their new pets.

Not gonna lie, I'm kinda jealous.

Who wouldn't be? Aren't they cute!?

We made it through...

2011-08-29T13:11:00.003-04:00

Unfortunately, some of the farm's trees did not...
We made it through with little to no flooding, and about 10 trees down on the farm. Including one that fell close to Buttercup's pasture.

Speaking of Buttercup, that silly mare napped outside during the hurricane! My parents went to feed up Saturday evening and there she was, head down butt to the wind and rain, snoozing away. Guess she wanted a shower?

This is how the other critters handled the storm...
Spoiled. That's what they are!

I took some video, I'll get those up when we get our cable and Internet back. Our power only blinked a few times during the storm but we've been without cable since 5:30 Saturday evening. I've reacquainted myself with the radio stations that carry the news in the absence of the TV :o)

We should consider ourselves lucky that this turned out to be a non-event. Keep the folks in Vermont in your thoughts, they are dealing with the wrath of Irene related flooding and it's no joke.

We're Prepared

2011-08-26T09:03:00.002-04:00

With Irene barreling up the coast and setting her sights on the Mid-Atlantic I've made sure that we're prepared.

Last night, GB and I went to the store to stock up on bottled water and food that doesn't need to be cooked to be eaten. We checked all of our flashlights to make sure that they had fresh batteries and were working. We have the radio ready for action if needed. I restocked all the food for the critters, so we're set there too.

I also made sure the critters had their IDs on them. Stormy wears ID 24/7 since he regularly leaves the house, Maddie on the other hand does not. Last night I made sure to put Maddie's collar with her ID tags on her. The princess wasn't happy but she can deal with wearing a collar and tags for the next 72 hours. Both collars have two forms of ID on them, a standard collar tag with their name, ours and our phone numbers and a second tag made by Together Tag. This is a nationwide pet registry, Stormy and Maddie have a unique id number on their tags that connects anyone who enters it to our contact information, including a secondary contact and an out-of-state contact. Both of them are also microchipped.

Am I paranoid about losing my pets? Just a little.

Ok, it's my worst nightmare.

I want to make sure I've done everything I could to make sure that if they get lost, they'll be returned to me quickly and safely.

Tonight, I'm filling up the Jeep. If it gets bad enough that we have to leave I don't want to be worrying about waiting in lines for fuel. Some folks on Facebook mocked me for my preparations, but you know what, I don't care. I'd rather have everything just in case I need it instead of needing something and not having it.

I didn't stockpile milk and toilet paper like folks around here do when snow is forecast. I simply pulled together what the critters and I may need to keep us comfortable, safe and fed if the power goes out and there is flooding. We will be able to take care of ourselves.

I call it being smart.

I'll keep you posted! Here's hoping Irene decides she wants to head East into the Atlantic!

Lightning does the work

2011-08-22T09:33:00.002-04:00

This is a hemlock that stands between the barn and the main house on the farm. It had a run-in with lightning Sunday afternoon. This tree has stood in this spot since before I was born and in one brief second it was shredded by a bolt of lightning. Shows the raw power of Mother Nature!

Our dry summer weather has done a complete 180 in the last week, Saturday the 13th our farm received ~5 inches of rain in a single day (the farm where I used to board Buttercup received 10!!). This past Friday another 4 inches of rain fell in the Great KC and just yesterday we probably received another few inches. Flash flood warnings were up all over the Shore.

We're soaked!

But, this means the grass will start growing again (yippee!). Ya'll keep your fingers crossed that it will grow fast enough so our farm can get another cutting of hay in. I'm down to 40 bales for Miss Buttercup, my Dad has another hundred in his hay shed that I am going to buy this weekend. He has another buyer that wants it all but I have the inside track (have I ever mentioned that I love my Dad?!) The original 40 bales were from another hay sale, they wanted all of those bales but my Dad said no, my daughter's horse needs to eat too. He's the best.

I called my cousin to inquire about getting some more hay to make sure we have plenty for the winter and he said I was searching for a very rare commodity. Seems like this year in Maryland was not a good horse hay making year. I told him I wasn't picky, small squares, big squares, rounds... if he can find good horse quality grass hay I will buy it.

I count my lucky stars we have the equipment and storage areas that allow us to handle all sizes of bales, some people aren't that lucky. Hopefully this flexibility will land us a couple extra bales so we'll be set for the winter and spring.

Sometimes you just need a break...

2011-08-21T14:08:00.000-04:00

For more great signs, check out this link.

A Message From Maddie Cat

2011-08-19T13:29:00.001-04:00

Wedding Stuff

2011-08-18T11:18:00.003-04:00

First, I apologize to anyone and everyone who is being driven crazy by my talking about our wedding. I'm obsessed just a little. But not Bridezilla obsessed, but keenly interested and having a grand time with planning.

There have been a few bumps but up to this point wedding planning has been great fun! Here's hoping that trend continues!

This week Gorillaboy and I signed the contract and submitted the down payment for our caterer! Finding a caterer and picking a menu has been a MAJOR learning experience. I knew catering wasn't exactly cheap but I was positively stunned by some of the quotes we received.

$50 a plate for a buffet dinner?

Oh yea.

Luckily we found a great guy who was willing to work with us and our budget. He gave us the flexibility to serve our guests the great food we wanted without breaking the bank. He was flexible in places that a lot of caterers weren't like providing the dishes and silverware (we can easily provide these ourselves below the cost we were quoted).

And so, our country comfort food wedding dinner has come together. Can't wait for October 2012 to get here so we can enjoy it!

We also received our contract from our photographer! Once she answers a few questions we'll be meeting up with her to sign it and complete an early walk-thru.

Two HUGE parts of our wedding taken care of!

All that's left besides rentals is the small stuff, and that's the easiest right?

Right?!

:o)

Possibly the cutest baby gift EVER.

2011-08-16T09:53:00.000-04:00

There's a baby boom going on in my circle of friends. Lately it seems like everytime I turn around someone is announcing that their expecting a new bundle of joy.

I am thrilled for all of them.

I'm also thrilled at the prospect of baby shower shopping. I love finding unique baby shower gifts to give folks. I know that they'll get TONS of cute outfits and pacifiers and all that good stuff.

But will they get one of these??!!

Their very own piggy bank customized with their alma mater? Probably not!

I discovered these adorable piggies on Etsy (yes I'm addicted!), from seller Swoopadaisies. This Clemson piggy is taking up residence in my friend A Girl Named Stewart's Clemson themed baby nursery.

(Photo by Swoopadaisies)

Swoopadaisies adds so much detail to her designs, from their tutus to their cheek patches to the cheers on their little rears!

(Photo by Swoopadaisies)

She's happy to customize piggies too. Like this design below for a friend who lives in a "house divided" in Oregon (she's a Beavers fan, her husband a Ducks fan).

I had this girl piggie made for their daughter and a boy piggy made for their son to give as Christmas gifts. The back of these piggies read "Oregon Platypus" :o)

Pickled Pink!

2011-08-15T09:42:00.003-04:00

Err...

Tickled Pink about my pickles!

Who knew in just a short time I could take these:
And this jar...

To make this Bread and butter pickle yummy goodness!

No canning involved either! According to the recipe they'll keep in the fridge for 2 weeks (if they last that long!)

Can I just say how awesome it was to top our burgers with homemade pickles last night? I'm quite proud of myself.

I have to thank Domessticated for linking me to the Recipe Girl's Bread and Butter pickle recipe.

LOVE.

Bliss...

2011-08-05T13:02:00.003-04:00

Is...

A Silly Sheltie

A "small" snowcone

Cute Shoes

It's also knowing that in 48 hours I will be in hanging out poolside in Florida with my family!

Happy Weekend!

Sunflowers

2011-08-02T09:02:00.000-04:00

The sunflowers are blooming the the Great KC...

Can't get much better than this!

2011-08-01T10:09:00.004-04:00

Last week was a little insane/rough. Stormy decided to get an eye infection, which prompted an unexpected trip to the vet. On Tuesday my family had to make the difficult decision to have one of the new kittens put to sleep. Tiger, the calico, fell or landed awkwardly and broke her femur. It wasn't pretty and neither was the vet's reaction to my family's decision. My Mom was so distraught that she couldn't take the kitten in so my brother had to do it. My brother was emotional about it too and what does the vet say? "You know, I don't know why you didn't just drop this kitten off at the Humane Society. Someone would have adopted it and it would have a CHANCE."

Seriously?

Argh. My Mom never wants to go there again. I don't blame her, they never received one bit of sympathy or a kind word about their loss. If we weren't clients for close to 30 years then I too would consider going elsewhere. I am seriously debating calling into the office and requesting that the vet that saw Tiger never be allowed to treat our animals. She may have the veterinary medicine know-how but her client relations skills suck.

So yea, week off to a bang up start right?

Luckily the weekend went far better. I took advantage of a Friday off from work to do some baby shower/wedding crafts shopping. I snagged the perfect basket for my flower girl and it only set me back $2! I splurged a little on the ring bearer pillows for the boys but I feel like I more than made up for it with the basket!

The Etsy seller that I purchased the ring bearer pillows from agreed to include a few extra blooms so that I can attach them to the flower girl basket for a matched look. That means the only thing I need to purchase to complete the basket is some navy blue ribbon!

I also chatted with a catering company and started a rough draft of our wedding menu. We are going for a simple buffet style dinner with some of our favorite foods. Nothing fancy but with several gluten free options. I also mentioned that it should be kid friendly. Too which they replied, "Would you like a kids menu? We can totally do that!"

So yup, if we go with this caterer the kiddies will have their own menu options - chicken nuggets and mac and cheese. I'm just waiting on their quote so we can proceed.

Wedding things are really starting to come together and I couldn't be more excited.

It was a week of ups and downs, I'm just happy the ups outweighed the downs.

Fair Success!

2011-07-24T17:36:00.004-04:00

Here's the Buttercupgirl enjoying a beat the heat spa treatment. I think she liked the process of cold hosing, sweat scrape, cold hosing, sweat scrape... She definitely seemed perkier headed back into the barn than out!

I had a very successful 2011 county fair...

I brought home 4 firsts, 3 seconds and a fourth along with a good bit of constructive criticism. It's nice to have someone look at your work with a critical eye and give you unbiased feedback. I now know some of the things I need to work on (exposure, matting) and I can use that to my advantage in the future!

Beat the Heat

2011-07-22T13:08:00.003-04:00

This horse certainly knows how to!

County Fair

2011-07-20T14:08:00.002-04:00

It's county fair season again, one of my most favorite times of the summer.

I love wandering the barns, checking out the cattle, sheep, goats, hogs and horses. That's before we get to the indoor exhibits. I looking at the hay that's entered and viewing what veggies are entered in the largest or ugliest veggie contests.

Have you ever noticed how pretty canned vegetables are when they are all lined up? It's a kaleidoscope of color. Can't get enough.

And the crafts! There are some seriously talented people out there, someday I hope to be half as crafty as some of these folks.

This time of year makes me pine for the days when I was a 4-Her. I was in such a hurry to grow up and go to college. Now I wish those summers had lasted a little longer, that I had gone to a few more shows.

I still compete, just in a different way. Yesterday, I entered 8 photos in the Open Photography division of county fair where my parents' live. I find out on Saturday how they did. I'm every bit as nervous and excited as I was as a 4-Her waiting to walk into the show ring.

Maybe I'll get a ribbon, maybe I won't.

Can't wait to find out (& get a blue raspberry snowcone!)

Buttercup's Eyes and More

2011-07-13T16:37:00.004-04:00

I thought I would fill you in on the old girl and let you know how she's doing. We've been able to successfully con her into taking bute twice a day by hiding it in a handful of sweet feed mixed with a little pelleted feed. Just a little treat to encourage her to eat it all up.

I've noticed now that she no longer will eat out of buckets. If you put her feed in a bucket she'll check it out with her nose and walk away but she'll readily eat out of a rubber feed pan. Not sure what's up with that, maybe the sides of the bucket near her face make her uncomfortable? No problems drinking out of the stock tank so we're good there!

My Dad also mentioned that he noticed her eyesight is really starting to go, he sat her feed pan in the stall the other night and she had a hard time finding it until he brought it up to her face and sat it back down right in front of her. He said she just was searching around with her nose.

In wedding related news (there's always wedding news!) I ordered my first batch of 'Save the Dates' or STDs as the wedding message boards call them. These are for the folks who will be invited to the actual ceremony. I'll be ordering a second batch to send out to extended family and friends who will be invited to a reception that will happen a few days later.

My cake topper also came in the mail. It's adorable! Perfectly simple and perfect for our country-ish theme. I also cleared out a good portion of our Southern States' co-op canning section. I bought half gallon mason jars to use as centerpieces, pint jars for drinking glasses and itty bitty jars for a wedding favor idea that I have. Basically the back of Jeepie is full of Mason jars :o)

So wedding plans are progressing, and I am having fun. I hope this trend continues!

The Bradford Pear Mysteries

2011-07-08T08:43:00.003-04:00

My Grandmother called me with a great mystery this weekend. She was upset that her favorite tree, a Bradford pear, had died. She had nurtured this tree and it was her most favorite in her yard.
My cousin was coming over to cut it down. There were all sorts of holes all over the tree and my grandmother was sure the holes had killed it but wasn't sure WHO had made the holes.

Nice neat lines, all the same size, all over the tree.

Any ideas?

I was suprised to find, after a Google search, that this is the work of a woodpecker! They make those neat little lines while searching for bugs. Unfortunately, sometimes that leads to the tree's demise.

A Long Weekend & Wedding Planning Progress!

2011-07-05T08:21:00.004-04:00

I was in to work early on Thursday (2:45 AM!), took Friday off from work and of course Monday was a holiday. My weekend didn't exactly get off to the best of starts, I was sick on Friday. Stupid summer colds! My head was so stuffed that my ears were ringing and I felt incredibly dizzy whenever I would bend down to pick up something. Add to that a cough and a sore throat.

UGH.

Sunday I started to get over my cold and started feeling human again. YAY!

with my renewed energy I decided to get some wedding stuff done.

My enagagement ring needed it's inspection at the jewelry store so Gorillaboy and I took it in and while we were there we browsed wedding bands. After trying and comparing a few styles we found a pair that we loved! Excitement!

I also made my final decision on a wedding photographer. Photography was one of my biggest concerns for the wedding. I am picky about what I like and what I don't like. I also think wedding photography is ungodly expensive and hard to book for those not wanting 8+ hours of photography. We found the perfect photographer just up the road from my parents, I love her style and she loves small weddings! A match made in heaven.

I also broke out the Cricut and started cutting out wedding favors. We're doing candy filled pillow boxes. Between our ceremony and our wedding celebration picnic I need to make about 200 boxes, so I better start cutting! I can make 4 pillow boxes from a single sheet of scrapbook paper. At 25 cents a sheet I am saving a good bit by cutting and assembling them myself!

I also cut out all the pieces for my bridesmaid thank you cards so I can begin assembling those along with their gifts.

Monday I hopped on Etsy and purchased our cake topper!

I am slowly but surely checking things off our list of wedding to-dos. I figure the more I get done now, the better I will be able to handle those inevitable bumps in the road that will appear closer to the ceremony.

Future Long Haul Trucker

2011-06-28T13:20:00.002-04:00

Well, that was fun...

2011-06-24T08:33:00.002-04:00

Or not!

This morning I slept past my bus stop. It's not a fun feeling when you stir from a nap and realize you aren't where you're supposed to be!

I nonchalantly hopped off at the next stop hoping the regulars wouldn't notice and hoofed it across D.C. back to where I belonged.

At least it wasn't a terribly hot morning!

And the winner is...

2011-06-23T11:14:00.001-04:00

Laura!

Shoot me a message with the size and color Soft Paws you would like for your kitties and I will get them in the mail to you!

Saturday Morning

2011-06-22T03:20:00.001-04:00

I was reminded why, when I lived on the farm with my parents, I didn't need a gym membership.

The farm work I helped with was plenty to keep me in shape!

Saturday I set about cleaning Buttercup's run-in and removing some weeds that had sprouted up alongside the barn and fenceline. How is it that weeds can grow when nothing else can?! These things were flourishing and the grass in the rest of Buttercup's lot was brown and looking rather toasted.

Two hours of labor later, the run-in was clean and nicely bedded, Buttercup's new fan was installed, the weeds were eradicated, Buttercup was nicely groomed and I was soaked with sweat with a blistered hand and covered in horse hair and dirt. But I accomplished my task!

My horse was happy and I was happy, aside from the blister on my thumb (mental note not to leave work gloves in the storage box in the Jeep!).

Nothing like a good morning's work! Beats running on a treadmill in the gym anyday!

I'm here!

2011-06-21T11:20:00.003-04:00

I plan on taking care of the giveaway tonight.

Pieces didn't exactly fall into place last night as I had my first wedding related breakdown. It was kinda major, basically me dissolving into tears for at least an hour and then spending the rest of the evening on the verge of tears.

I woke up this morning feeling like I had a hangover (looked like it too).

I've recovered.

I'm moving on.

I think it was my first real bridezilla/spoiled bride moment. I've checked myself, composed my emotions and have resolved to have the most kick ass DIY wedding on the planet and NO ONE can take that from me.

NO ONE.

That's all I'm gonna say about that...

Buttercup's New Roommates

2011-06-16T14:34:00.003-04:00

Meet Jingle...
Tiger...

And Meowy!

They are *supposed* to be barn kitties and Buttercup's new roommates BUT the kiddies are rapidly falling in love and I have serious doubts that they will make the actual transition to Buttercup's new roomies but we'll see.

Either way I get to play with kittens this weekend!!!

My new obsession

2011-06-15T10:12:00.002-04:00

My love affair with deal of the day sites like Groupon and Living Social are well documented. I have their apps on my phone so my deals are always with me. I plan ahead for trips to "deal cities" by cruising for restaurant and hotel deals. I use them as gifts or to buy gifts. They've saved me a great deal of money.

I love them.

Very muchly.

Now, my deal of the day website list has just gotten a little longer. I was introduced, via a crafting blog, to Pick Your Plum. This site offers a limited quantities of a crafting item at a discounted price for one day only and when it's gone, it's gone.

Lately, I've been obessessed with crafting one of these for our wedding. Or one of these. Either way, I am going to need vinyl to create my masterpiece and that stuff can get EXPENSIVE. Imagine my excitement when I logged on to Pick Your Plum and vinyl was the deal of the day!

I got three colors (red, black, white) for around 50 cents a foot! Basically I got three rolls of vinyl that were 9"x 24" for $3. Compare that to vinyl purchased from Cricut which costs $8.99 for 2 12"x24" sheets!

SWEET.

Let the design and crafting begin!

My Girl

2011-06-12T20:19:00.002-04:00

Not much gets by him!

2011-06-10T10:41:00.002-04:00

The Storm Dog is keeping watch over my flower seedlings, making sure no cats decide to make a snack of them!

Don't forget to leave a comment for my giveaway!

A Giveaway!

2011-06-09T10:47:00.002-04:00

Quite a few folks seemed interested in Miss Maddie Cat's fancy nails last week so I thought I would spread the Soft Paws love.

I will give the winner of this giveaway one pack of Soft Paws, color and size your choice. Just leave me a comment and you're entered in the drawing. The winner will be picked by the Storm Dog himself.

Entry deadline is June 18 (my birthday!). I will announce the winner on Monday, June 20.

So, check out the colors and pick out the size you'll need and good luck!

OH!

For you dog owners, your pup qualifies for this drawing too! There are Soft Paws for dogs! So don't worry if you don't have a kitty, you can dress up your pup!

p.s. These folks don't know me, this is not a sponsored giveaway. I just felt like sharing the love!

I love this monster...

2011-06-04T09:20:00.000-04:00

I saw him on a shirt at this store called Fuego. He's cute in his own monster-y way and what he's saying is truth- the dark side does have cookies and they're AWESOME :o)

The Kid and The Otter

2011-06-03T21:37:00.003-04:00

Don't know if you've seen this video or not, it's so cool to watch the otter "play" with this kid! I've always liked otters and this makes me like them even more. They certainly seem like playful creatures.

As an aside, have you seen the little girl and the squirrel video (warning the squirrel is deceased)?? I can't help but chuckle at her little voice and her fascination with that poor creature. The way she pronounces "squirrel" is priceless.

Makes me miss my 'chilla boys...

2011-06-02T06:43:00.000-04:00

Photo posted on Awkward Family Pet Photos...

A bit of a bummer...

2011-06-01T08:51:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I went into Curves for my usual workout and was met with some really diasappointing news. My Curves will be closing on June 30!!!

To say I am bummed is an understatement. I LOVE it's location (it's 5 minutes from our condo), the ladies that work there are incredibly nice and I had started making some workout buddies! But, unfortunately the economy has claimed another victim. The owner of the franchise just doesn't have the money to renew the 5-year contact that Curves requires of their franchisees(?).

She has pro-rated everyones' dues and is offering to help folks transfer to new Curves if they desire to. I'm guessing that's what I am going to do, there is a Curves in Edgewater which is the town near Stormy's daycare. I figure I will go to it and see how that goes. Hopefully the ladies are just as nice!

Figures that the first time I ever enjoy going to the gym, the place closes down! There may be one perk to this however, I checked out the hours of the potential new Curves and they are actually open later in the evenings! That would mean that GB and I could commute together 5 days a week instead of in separate cars 2 days a week so we can make Stormy's pickup time and I can make the 7 p.m. workout cut off.

I guess it's a little bit of good and a little bit of bad all rolled into one!

The Critters...

2011-05-30T18:28:00.004-04:00

Stormy wanted to know why I was interrupting his nap time for a photography session.

Maddie was trying to show how rough her life is, see? She can barely go on living like this.

Oh wait, maybe life isn't so bad when you're such a pretty kitty :o)

Pondering...

2011-05-26T15:26:00.005-04:00

The vet called today, he was finally following up with me in regards to Miss Buttercup's eyes. He sent her photos and pressures off to one of the equine opthalmologists at UPenn's New Bolton Center. The center is most famously known for it's treatment of Barbaro. It's pretty much the go to large animal veterinary hospital in the area.

Our vet recommended I haul her up to New Bolton for an exam. He said he thought it best to go there for a comprehensive exam and also to hear treatment options. Here is my situation in regards to that, the exam itself will run me about $250 at the very least. That does not include the cost of the fuel to get her there (it's a 120+ mile trip) and the time and stress involved with loading her and hauling her (I haven't tried to load her since she started losing her sight).

Our vet says basically we have two options - treat her eyes with eye drops (2x a day) or to have a laser procedure done. The laser procedure will cost around $2500. Not exactly a drop in the bucket, and from what I hear the drops aren't that inexpensive either.

Let me point out- I am NOT putting a price on my animal's health. I am merely looking at options and weighing the costs versus the benefits. I care about her and I don't want her to be in pain but I also do not want to put her (& us) through a whole bunch of procedures and trips with little to no gain and thousands of dollars down the drain. I am also factoring in her age, she's 22 years old. She's had a good life but she is older. Things are more stressful to an older animal than they would be to a younger animal. I also wonder if the procedures and drops would do anything other than stop the progression, if I knew it would restore her sight I might attempt it. Everything I've read seems to say the surgery and drops simply stop or slow the progression but do not "cure the disease" or restore sight.

I know I have brought this up before. But I talked it over with my cousin and GB and have tenatively agreed not to haul her to New Bolton or proceed with the drops or the laser procedure. I am currently on hold with the New Bolton Center waiting to talk to a veterinarian in regards to what I can do to make her comfortable versus trying to correct the problem.

I guess, I want to ask you my readers, what would you do? (Please factor in that there is a budget, it is not a case where money is unlimited.)

Odds and Ends

2011-05-23T11:08:00.002-04:00

I've officially reached the one month mark at my new job, things are going well but I am surrounded by a sea of paper. Lots to learn, lots to retain and lots to organize (and knowing me, the organization part if gong to be the hardest!)

I had my first "measure day" at Curves. I lost 2.2 lbs! Not a massive weight loss by any means but a step in the right direction! The part that made me most happy were my measurements- I dropped a whole 2 inches from my abdomen (a big problem area for me!)! Belly fat = bad and I am well on my way to banishing it! I also dropped a quarter inch from my arms and my thighs and my BMI also dropped a little. Curves fills out this awesome chart so all you progress is right there and easy to see. I'm a happy girl!

Also filed under exciting news, GB and I picked a wedding date! We're super excited about our Fall 2012 wedding. I can't wait to get started crafting! I was also presented with an exciting offer - the owner of the farm told me I was welcome to take over a section of the farm garden to grow my own flowers! She offered to help with selecting varieties and putting together the bouquets and arrangements. She also knows some folks in the area that have cut-your-own operations that we could supplement our home grown flowers with. To have a bit of the farm with me on our wedding day thrills me. Here's hoping it works out!

The Misadventures of the Storm Dog.

2011-05-17T15:42:00.004-04:00

Do you ever wonder what is going on in your dog's brain? I certainly pondered it this weekend after the Storm Dog's latest misadventure.

We held a family picnic at my grandfather's house to celebrate out-of-state family being in town. It was warm enough that two of my cousins decided they would go swimming in my grandfather's above ground pool.

If there is one thing that drives my little control freak of a sheltie nuts it's swimming. Particularly swimming in pools. He will run and bark and run and bark and do whatever is possible to gain access to the pool.

This has led to several pool-related misadventures in the past. Once, he somersaulted into the deep end of my aunt and uncle's in ground pool when he escaped the fenced part of the yard and went into full on "herding mode." It wasn't until he was at the edge of the pool that he realized that was WATER he was charging into. He applied the brakes too late, clipped the lip of the pool and made a spectacular entry into the deep end. Luckily it was just his pride that was hurt.

Fast forward a couple of years. My uncle is throwing a birthday/pool party for my youngest niece. Stormy is again obsessed with the swimmers. He was circling the above-ground pool and barking (shocking I know!) but he was staying out of trouble and off the pool deck so I figured we were good. Then I heard my cousins' yell, "STORMY!"

When I get there I see my dog cruising across the pool on a pool float- yes a POOL FLOAT. The long, rectangular kind that you lounge on. My cousins said he was on the deck and the float drifted over so he jumped on it and started paddling with his front legs in order to chase them. My dog has amazing drive, but he has a few screws loose!

And so, we're at my grandfather's this weekend. My cousins are in the pool. Mr. Control Freak is at it again. I'm playing corn hole with my Aunts and my brother's girlfriend "A." All of the sudden A screams, "OMG! Stormy!" and I turn my head in time to see him land on his back on the concrete pad that is by my grandfather's pool ladder.

The ladder looks a lot like the one pictured above, I guess Stormy thought he was commando dog or something and decided to scale it in order to get to my cousins. Obviously it didn't work. He came out of it with a minor limp that cleared up quickly (he switched to chasing the corn hole bean bags and retrieving them) and bruised pride.

I swear, for a "smart" dog he sure gets himself into some crazy situations!

I Made A Flower!

2011-05-11T11:20:00.004-04:00

Ok, so it's not the most stunning paper flower ever created.
I didn't exactly follow directions (I used a paper clip instead of a twist tie).
I used an uber cheap brown paper napkin from the cafeteria in our building.
But, I still see the potential. It's there, just need nicer quality paper napkins and pretty colors.
This can certainly go somewhere!

My friend J made one too...

A slightly nicer napkin and a nicer result!

Fun!

Feeling crafty...

2011-05-06T10:47:00.002-04:00

So I've found a new blog to read, MADE, I'm addicted, especially since she posted a DIY wedding flower tutorial. Wedding flowers have always been a bit of an issue with me, I don't want to spend gobs and gobs of money on something that will whither and die.

Silk flowers were my preferred choice but I am rapidly find that they aren't as "cheap" as I thought.

Then I saw MADE's tutorial, paper flowers! I can handle that!!! Or maybe not, but it's worth a shot right? Worst case I wasted $5 on a pack of napkins and some twist ties. And, the beauty of this is I can work on it over a period of time and just keep them boxed up and away from the teeth of a curious Maddie Cat (swear that cat hasn't met a piece of paper that she won't taste!)

I think it would be something unique and different, just like us. What do you think?

Happy Birthday Storm Dog!

2011-05-02T09:08:00.002-04:00

Storm Dog turns 7 today!!

We plan on celebrating with our annual trip to McDonald's for some chicken nuggets (maybe some ice cream for us humans!). I can't believe how time has flown by... it seems like not that long ago he was a fluff of a pup!

Ahhh it's great to be home...

2011-04-28T15:22:00.003-04:00

I've missed having this view on my commute...
Maddie Cat is happy that I still have things to put away, it means more perches are available.

I was even happy to join in KC traffic jam (or parade, it's all based on your perspective!)

The Dogwood's are blooming on the farm...

And the Storm Dog has lots of new (old) places to sniff (this photo was snapped as I was warning him to stay away from the electric fence and we all know how that ended...)

Settling in...

2011-04-25T14:52:00.003-04:00

Almost unpacked, only 4 more boxes to go!

Our office is a complete mess; that's my project for the week.

My first day of work was (still is, I'm here 'til 5!) completely overwhelming. I'm feeling kind of intimidated, but I know I'm the new one and I just have to settle in. I'll be rocking it in no time.

The Storm Dog started daycare today, I called to check and they said he was shy this morning and didn't really want to play. They gave him his space and he has slowly warmed up throughout the day. The lady I talked to said he is a much happier boy this afternoon.

All this translates into much happier owners who won't have to deal with a sheltie dog who has been kept inside for too long and has had his entire routine interrupted.

Speaking of routines, it's as though Stormy and Maddie haven't been apart. They are completely at ease with each other (after some initial pouting frm both sides about having to share affection).

All in all we're settling in quite nicely!

A Diagnosis

2011-04-21T11:47:00.005-04:00

Just got finished with the vet's visit to Buttercup. There was good news and bad news.

Good news - she's in excellent condition, she looks great and is super spunky.

Bad news - Bilateral glaucoma. Her eyes are significantly worse than in December. Intraocular pressure is 49 on the right side and 45 on the left. The normal range in horses is 15-30. We blew that one out of the water! She is also almost completely blind, she has very little sight in her right eye and practically none in her left.

Good news - She isn't in any pain, her eyes aren't squinting or tearing.

Bad news - Treatment is intensive and expensive. In fact, our vet's office doesn't stock the meds. They see so few cases in small animals, let alone large animals to justify stocking it.

My vet is forwarding pictures and the intraocular pressures to the equine ophthalmologist down at N.C. State to see what their opinion is and what sort of treatment they suggest. Basically, hauling her to an ophthalmologist is my only option for further diagnosis/treatment.

I've already made the decision not to haul her down there or to start her on the meds. I can't get to the farm everyday and it's unfair to put that pressure on my Dad. We'll manage it and when it becomes painful we'll make that decision.

The vet said it was a real shame that we were having to deal with this. He said she clearly has lots more years of riding left in her if it weren't for her darn eyes. Oh well, guess that's just how life is sometimes. I'm upset, I knew it was coming but to be told it's here is another thing entirely.

Oh yea, clearly I made it back home. Drove cross-country in 4 days.

In other news, Storm Dog got zapped by the electric fence for the first time in his life. Told him to stay away from the fence but he didn't listen. I'm 100% sure that won't happen again! Then, 10 minutes before the vet arrived he wiped out and hurt his leg. Scared the h*ll out of me, he took a hard tumble while running and started flopping around like he couldn't get up. When he did stand up he was only standing on three legs. Luckily, no harm done, just a little hitch in his giddyup for a bit. He's back to sprinting around the yard.

So yea, that's my day and it's only Noon! Love being back home!

Closing Time...

2011-04-16T06:22:00.004-04:00

Every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end... Farewell Oregon.

RIP Khloe

2011-04-14T00:43:00.002-04:00

Today I said goodbye to my Khloe girl... She had a stroke this morning and I had to make the decision to set her free. I'm terribly sad that she won't be making the cross-country drive with us. I miss her like crazy already, it's just not right to walk past her cage and not see her pop out of her nest. Rest in peace little girl!

VooDoo Donut

2011-04-08T12:03:00.003-04:00

This is me and my Texas Challenge VooDoo donut (a.k.a the Tex-ass Challenge), eat it in 90 seconds and it's free. I did not attempt the challenge, but I am slowly working away at this monster. Mmmm donut!

There's a garden in my bathroom...

2011-04-07T07:31:00.003-04:00

First, an update on Miss Khloe. She completely demolished the roll overnight. It looked like it snowed toilet paper. But now she has a nice, deep nest to sleep in.

Think she's a happy girl and well camouflaged to boot!

Now, about that garden....

This is what my bathroom looks like right now. It's home to a trio of blueberry plants, a pair of cat mint plants and a solitary bee balm plant. Why on earth am I buying plants when I am about to move?

'Cause they're not for me!

They're for my friend J, she just moved into her new house! She has an adorable backyard (which the Storm Dog has already given his approval of) and has big plans to start a garden. She also want to get a bee hive setup in the next year. So, I decided I would buy her a housewarming gift that would keep on giving. All of these perennial plants are highly attractive to bees and she and her boyfriend will get the extra bonus of blueberries!

One of the blueberries is super neat because the berries aren't blue! They're pink! The variety is called "Pink Lemonade." Should be an interesting plant to have around!

I'm delivering the plants this weekend, so for the time being they're hanging out in the bathroom. My garden bathroom :)

Taking Mikey's Advice...

2011-04-05T23:20:00.005-04:00

Tonight I decided to take Mikey's advice and go out to photograph something. She suggested some blooming, I decided to photograph something destructive :o)

Something cute AND destructive!

I gave Khloe a roll of toilet paper to play with. She was a happy gerbil-ly creature! After just 30 minutes, Khloe had reduced the roll to this...

She's gonna be a busy girl tonight!

What's that Khloe girl??

You're welcome, enjoy building a new nest! And thanks for the evening entertainment!

My Decision

2011-04-05T13:46:00.003-04:00

First off, I want thank everyone for their support. Last Friday was just one of those days when I was in a dark mood and it spilled over into my blogging world. I was scrolling through folks' blogs looking at their comment counts, their posts and well I just felt worthless. Totally felt like this place was a waste of space. I'm known to get this way every once in a while, usually when I am stressed out. The stress of the move, my new job, and answering the never ending parade of wedding questions starts to wear on me. The continuously grey weather here in Portland doesn't help either (which is kind of surprising considering it didn't affect me at all last year). So I did what I always do, I ate. Lots of food so my clothes are tighter which makes me feel worse so I eat some more. And hold down the sofa. And watch the world go by on Facebook. Not a good combination. All of this spiraled me deeper and deeper into my little pity party and it culminated in me wanting to shut this whole thing down because clearly (at least in my mind) no one read it or even cared. See how crazy my pity party got? But I learned something- folks do care. They do read what I say. They like hearing about my crazy critters. And my life despite the fact that it isn't the most exciting in the world, they still like to hear about it. So I've decided to stay. I'm going to keep posting, it'll help pull me out of this funk that I have gotten myself into. It's good for me, in times like this you need your friends the most and I won't shut myself away from my blogging friends. I'll end it by saying, "Thank you. Thank you for reading and posting. And, thank you for caring."

Do I make the cut?

2011-04-01T16:19:00.003-04:00

Do you ever wonder if you make the cut? If what you are doing is worthwhile and actually valued by others?

Do you care?

It's something I have pondered recently. Is what I write on here actually valued? Are people truly interested in what's going on in my life? Afterall, my life isn't all that exciting. I don't have particularly fancy craft skills, I am not a fabulous baker or chef, I am not rehabbing a rescued animal and charting their progress. I am not training my animals for shows or new careers. I have a desk job that isn't particularly exciting.

My claims to fame are a semi-intelligent sheltie dog, an aging horse that I live over an hour away from and the fact that I take semi-decent photographs.

I am seriously considering shutting down this blog. I don't feel as though I am really contributing anything to the blogging world. I don't discuss exciting topics that generate "buzz" or draw in large volumes of readers.

That is my thought.

Maybe I will step away until I feel the need to rebuild. Or maybe I will step away forever.

TBD.

Happy Boy!

2011-03-27T21:29:00.003-04:00

My friend in Illinois sent me a package this week that contained a new toy for the Storm Dog. I think he likes it!

My new TV addiction...

2011-03-23T16:21:00.002-04:00

I watched this show last season and I am now more excited than ever about Season 2! The show follows the "Beekman boys" as they transition to life on their farm in Upstate New York. Brent used to work for Martha Stewart and Josh is a writer. The cast of characters on this show is priceless. It's awesome, non-trashy reality television.

Watch this video to get to know them better.

You can watch it on the Planet Green channel, on the website you can find the intro to the show. They even have an online store where you can purchase their goat milk soaps and their Blaak cheese.

As someone who grew up on a farm it makes me laugh, they really are city boys in the country. But they really seem into supporting small farms and their community. And that's a cause I can always support! Check it out and let me know what you think!

My East Coast Schedule is already filling up!

2011-03-21T14:03:00.002-04:00

And it's filling up almost as quickly as my townhouse here in Oregon is emptying!

This weekend I got the joy of filling in nail holes. I also made a discovery, I have nothing to stand on to reach the high spots (like curtain rods). I managed to balance on a plastic bin that I had laying around and by some miracle did not fall.

Note to self- leave at least one chair in your place so you can reach things!!

That being said, my downstairs is starting to look rather empty. I just have a few pieces of furniture and a couple of pictures. Everything else has been packed up or hauled off to Goodwill. This week I plan on tackling the upstairs.

As for my East Coast schedule, well let's just say I won't be bored my first week back! If all goes as planned we'll arrive in Maryland on Tuesday, at the latest Wednesday.

Thursday will be the Storm Dog's first day at his new doggie daycare. I also scheduled a vet appointment for Maddie Cat and Buttercup. Hopefully, we'll get a definitive diagnosis on her eyes and decide how to move forward. Maddie Cat will hate me with a passion I'm sure. First, I arrive home with the dog and then pack her in a crate to take her to the vet. Yea, definitely won't be high on her list of favorite people!

Friday will be unpacking, another daycare day for the Storm Dog. Saturday more unpacking and then Sunday it's Easter so I will be back on the shore to spend time with the family.

And Monday, it's off to D.C. for my first day at my new job!

It's gonna be a wild ride!

ABCs of me!

2011-03-11T12:32:00.003-05:00

A: Age: 28

B: Bed size: Queen

C. Chore you hate: Folding laundry and washing dishes

D. Dogs: 1

E. Essential start to your day: A cup of coffee or tea or a tall glass of milk

F. Favorite color: Hunter green

G. Gold or silver: Silver

H: Height:5’7″

I: Instruments that you can play: None, would love to learn to play the guitar sometime though

J: Job title: Statistician

K: Kids:None, unless you count the critters

L: Live: The great State of Maryland

M: Mom’s name: Karen

N: Nicknames: Squirrel, Dia

O: Overnight hospital stays: Once when I was very little

P: Pet peeve: people with out of control/obnoxious dogs who think they are sooo kyoot!

Q: Quote from a movie: “I never saw a wild thing sorry for itself. A bird will fall frozen dead from a bough without ever having felt sorry for itself." -Master Chief John Urgayle quoting "Self Pity" by D.H. Lawrence

R: Righty or lefty: Righty, interestingly so is my brother but both of our parents are Lefties.

S: Sibling: 1 brother

T: Time you wake up: 5:45 A.M. on weekdays, 7 A.M. on the weekend unless the Storm Dog decides to sleep in

U: Underwear: Uh yea...

V: Vegetables you dislike: Raw Onions, lettuce, tomato

W: What makes you run late: My life in general. I used to be so prompt, now I seem to be perpetually running behind.

X: X-rays: All sorts, hands, back, knees, abdomen...

Y: Yummy food you make: I'm working on this, but I can grill an awesome steak!

Z: Zoo favorite animal: Otters (suprised?)

Report Date!

2011-02-28T11:57:00.003-05:00

Last week I received my official report date for my new job back in Maryland.

April 25th I am expected to be in the office and ready to work.

It's a bit sooner than I expected but I can handle it. In many ways I am ready to move back home. I am going to miss my friends out here in Oregon but I am ready to end my long distance engagement :)

Not to mention be only an hour's drive from my horse instead of 3,000 miles away.

This weekend I hauled a bunch of stuff to Goodwill and sold some of my furniture. I also packed a bunch of boxes. I still have a ways to go but I've got a pretty good handle on everything. I am using this as an opportunity to take a hard look at everything I own and decide what I really need versus what I think I need.

I have really gotten rid of a lot of stuff and while the decision making process was hard I haven't missed the things I donated after they were gone. Funny how you think you will really use something but it actually ends up gathering dust in the corner of some closet.

Nothing new to report.

2011-02-21T00:01:00.001-05:00

Life continues on.

I've begun packing for my move back East.

I am eagerly looking forward to being back home but I know I am gonna miss the PNW like crazy.

Stay tuned!

My new addiction...

2011-02-11T15:14:00.003-05:00

Awkward Family Pet Photos

Seriously funny...
And, sometimes you're just DYING to hear the backstory.
All photos are from the site, check it out sometime when you want a laugh :o)

"Anyway" Poem

2011-01-31T11:38:00.002-05:00

A family member posted a link to this poem on their Facebook for one of my cousins who was going through a rough patch. I read it out of curiosity and it really touched me.

Anyway

People are often unreasonable, illogical and self centered;
Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives;
Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies;
Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you;
Be honest and frank anyway.

What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight;
Build anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous;
Be happy anyway.

The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow;
Do good anyway.

Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough;
Give the world the best you've got anyway.

You see, in the final analysis, it is between you and your God;
It was never between you and them anyway.
~Kent M. Keith

Tired Pup!

2011-01-27T23:50:00.002-05:00

Can't forget our Princess!

2011-01-25T12:34:00.002-05:00

She gets her own caricature too!

Adventures with a Cricut

2011-01-24T11:49:00.003-05:00

So, I am now the owner of a Cricut Personal cutter.

This lovely little machine advertises itself as the crafter's dream, able to cut all sorts of paper and vinyl into all sorts of beautiful shapes. I totally had visions of crafting greatness due to this machine. I envisioned myself making beautiful wedding invitations and save the dates.

Last night I unpacked the machine and decided to do a test run.

And, I realized my visions of crafting greatness will have to be put on hold.

Maybe.

Probably.

Most likely.

You see, the Cricut did not get along so well with me. I nearly destroyed a cutting mat by loading paper incorrectly. Then my paper got stuck to the cutting mat and I had to spend 20 minutes picking paper bits off of it. Then the mat fed crooked and ruined a cut.

There's also the fact that it cuts more slowly than I thought it would. If GB and I plan on sending out 100 invitations it's going to take a looooong time just to cut the simplest of pieces prior to assembly! AND, it's a "baby" Cricut so the largest piece of paper it can cut is 6x12 which is far smaller than I need for my invite idea. I would have to buy the next Cricut size up to get the invite size I would need and that means extra $.

All this has me reevaluating my plan of DIY invites. Maybe I should just give up the idea and purchase them. Though, I admit, the thought makes me a little sad. I want our wedding stuff to be unique and very us and I wonder if I can achieve that through boxed cards.

Things to ponder! But at least I am making these discoveries now when I am not under a deadline!

As if my dog wasn't spoiled enough...

2011-01-22T07:07:00.001-05:00

I went and had this made...
Then again, maybe it's not the dog that's spoiled, it's his OWNER!

Many thanks to Tim at Tim Michael Arts for creating such an awesome drawing!

For more fun watch THIS VIDEO! (It's Tim drawing Stormy!)

Squirrel Appreciation Day!

2011-01-21T12:47:00.001-05:00

January 21 is officially 'Squirrel Appreciation Day' so make sure all the squirrels in your life know much you appreciate them :o)

DIY Bride

2011-01-18T17:24:00.004-05:00

First things first...

The Bridal Show.

It was fun and completely overwhelming all at once. First off, some people are WAY too into their weddings. I mean there were women, their fiancees and friends that would literally shove you out of the way for a chance to look at a particular vendor. Not cool. They aren't giving away Tiffany jewelry or anything like that folks. Sorry, not into the whole fighting for space to look at a wedding cake design.

But, we did have FUN! Docha Salon was set up to do your hair so you could experiment with different hairstyles. Two out of the three of us ended up with the great hairstyles (& I was reminded that I need to grow my hair out if I want to achieve the 'wedding hair' I want!). Best of all it was FREE.

We ate entirely too much cake. And I found some AWESOME ideas for wedding invitations, wedding cake design and flowers.

--------- Now for the post!-------

DIY BRIDE - That's what I plan on being!

Gorillaboy and I haven't officially launched our wedding planning. That'll come later. But, my need to be crafty for our wedding can hardly be contained. So I've started looking for ideas.

Here's my plan- I want to make as much stuff for the wedding as possible. Right now I have a "short" list of things that I am 100% sure I want to create. Then, if I have time (& motivation!) I have a couple other ideas for wedding items that I'd like to create.

My short list-
*Save the Dates
*Wedding Invitations
*Thank you cards
*Programs
*Flower Girl Headband
*Decorations for the aisle
*Centerpieces
*Wedding favors

Extras (if I have time & GB doesn't think I've gone crazy with the crafting)
*Boutonnieres for the guys
*Aisle runner
*Bridesmaid Gifts

I picked up this book from Michaels Craft Store this past weekend, it's called The DIY Bride by Khris Cochran. I am seriously in LOVE with this book! There are so many ideas from invitations, to bridal jewelry, to favors! I've already placed flags on multiple pages and I can't wait to start crafting!

What's even better is that I discovered this author has several other DIY bridal books... there's the "crafty countdown" and "celebrate your day your way". Totally buying these so I can have the set :o)

I also became the owner of a Cricut this weekend. I'm ready to cut paper, this should come in so handy when it's time to make the invitations, the programs and possibly even the wedding favors! I'm stocking up on some of the cartridges and even investigating how I can link it to my computer to gain access to even more designs!

I'll keep you posted on my adventures in crafting!

Busy Weekend!

2011-01-14T13:01:00.002-05:00

A long weekend is coming up for me, and I've done a pretty impressive job of filling time.

Saturday morning I have a loom knitting class, we're going to learn how to knit socks! I'm pretty excited, I have really gotten into giving handmade gifts to family and friends and I think this is perfect! Who wouldn't want a nice, warm pair of handmade socks??

Saturday evening I have a dinner party to go to. A good friend is inviting us over to her new place and we're having stuffed shells for dinner!! Mmmmm.... can hardly wait!

Sunday, two of my bridesmaids and I are going to the Portland Bridal Show! There will supposedly be 150 vendors there. I'm hoping to just browse around and start brainstorming some ideas. I am bound and determined to do our wedding on a small budget and have it look awesome. I will, I will, I WILL!!

But, first I need ideas!

Monday I had big plans to go snowshoeing with the Storm Dog but it's not looking like the weather is going to cooperate. Oh well. Another time. There's plenty of winter left. I may just stay home and start going through stuff deciding what to start packing. Sounds insane, but with the way time is flying by I figure I had better start sooner rather than later!!

What are your weekend plans??

Oh to live the life of the Storm Dog...

2011-01-12T14:53:00.002-05:00

It's hard sometimes...

2011-01-10T15:19:00.002-05:00

After what happened this weekend, it's hard to stay positive. It's hard to think about a world where someone can become so consumed by their thoughts and their disagreements with others that they feel it is OK to kill this person.

What ever happened to "let's agree to disagree?"

Why, anymore, does it seem like violence is the answer? Why so much hatred?

I normally stay away from such topics, I don't like talking politics. You opinion is you opinion and I'll have mine. Debating such things isn't going to change my mind anymore then it will change yours. But, that's OK. I respect your opinion and your right to express it. Just don't expect me to banter back and forth with you.

Video Blog from Buttercup

2011-01-05T16:20:00.004-05:00

Saying hello from the barn on a snowy evening...

Happy Belated Birthday to Sandy Girl!

2011-01-04T18:37:00.003-05:00

On December 27, 1996 a new foal was welcomed to this world. We named her Sandy Girl.
She grew up into quite the nice looking filly!

Here she is the day she was weaned, June 1997.
I know it's a little late but I can't help but wish her a Happy 14th Birthday!!! I'm sure it was filled with lots of love and sugar cubes.

As an aside, it's hard to believe that this April will mark Buttercup and I's 15th, yes 15th!, year together!

Mare-y Christmas from the both of us!!

2010-12-29T14:25:00.000-05:00

One of my fav Christmas songs!

2010-12-09T11:30:00.000-05:00

Must. Enhance. Calm.

2010-12-07T14:28:00.003-05:00

UPDATE!!! The missing iPod has been located! It was hiding in my house all along! Thanks Stephanie for the advice to keep calm and retrace my steps!

************************************

Tis the season for holiday music, hot chocolate and gift shopping.

Tis also the season for BREAKDOWNS.

And MELTDOWNS.

Both of which I had this morning.

I could barely drag myself out of bed, I wanted no part of starting the day.

Yesterday was pick on Squirrel day. I had a co-worker yell at me for an editing mistake that I offered to correct (instead she decided to stomp around in a huff over it), had my boss tell another co-worker that I "run off," I have more work than you can shake a stick at AND I can't find my iPod.

Tore the house apart looking for the iPod.

No iPod.

None.

Gorillaboy gave it to me for Christmas last year. I have one last place to look and if its not there I will have to accept the conclusion that it is gone forever and that some loser probably stole it from my pocket on the train.

I'm being a bit dramatic.

But I had a complete meltdown this morning, started crying as soon as I heard Gorillaboy's voice on the phone. Not cool.

Showed up to work an hour late, daring anyone to say ANYTHING to me.

Today the computer system is randomly up and down.

ugh.

Can I hit the back button and start this week again???

I LOVE GROUPON!

2010-11-30T00:27:00.003-05:00

Seriously I do!

It has been a wonderful, wonderful thing to have access to this holiday season!

We make "year in review" calendars of the kids to give to family. They can get pretty spendy if you want the spiral bound ones with more than one photo per month.

Enter Groupon.

I snagged a deal that got me $100 worth of credit at a photo gift design website for $25. Add in a 40% off special being run by the company and I snagged 5 "upgraded" 11x14 calendars and 1 8x10 calendar for just an extra $30! Total savings - $170!!!

Other deals of the season-

*$25 for $50 worth of Zazzle.com credit. Finished up my Mom's gift with this one, she's getting a custom coffee mug with her grandkids' names on it. I had money left over and they were running a free shipping/30% off deal on all products so I ordered 4 custom porcelain ornaments which earned me an additional 15% "quantity discount." SWEET!

*$25 for $50 worth of Cafepress.com credit. I showed myself some love and ordered a custom Sigg Water bottle. With the money left over I bought some clothing.

Here's my water bottle-

I'm more than a little excited about the money that I saved this year!!

Must be genetic...

2010-11-19T11:52:00.002-05:00

My love of horses must be genetic.

This picture is proof. This is my great-grandfather posing with one of his favorite horses, Clyde. (Notice the hat on Clyde's head, hehe)
He also had a mare named Candy. He talked about them A LOT. And he always had a keen interest in my adventures with Buttercup.

Papa passed away this October, at the age of 97. I miss him tons but I imagine he's up there with his wife, Candy and Clyde. Probably out enjoying a nice drive.

Another Good Bye....

2010-11-17T20:03:00.003-05:00

Last night I had to make the hard decision to send my little gerbil over the bridge.
Kourtney had seemed a little off before my trip to Reno but really went downhill upon my return. It's hard to say goodbye to my little rodent. Their lives are so short, it almost isn't fair.

But I'm sure she's over the bridge, nesting in a big box of Kleenex, shredding toilet paper rolls and snacking on peanuts and raw pasta.

Rest in Peace Little Girl!

A little getaway...

2010-11-13T19:18:00.003-05:00

I took a little detour from my usual travels....
A weekend getaway turned into a big adventure to a wild horse adoption center. I saw it from the road on a scenic drive and just had to stop in.

I found some long ears! And adorable ones at that!

Gorillaboy said I could bring him home but that I would have to break the news to my father. My Mom says my Dad was a big softie and would probably fall in love with the little one! I don't, however, think he would fall in love with the drive!

There were quite a few foals and weanlings.

This guy was my favorite, he was in the 5 years and up stallion group. Of course I'd fall in love with a wild one ;o)

They were all sweated up from being moved into one of the closer pens, they are all slated for gelding within the next few days. There were some nice looking ones in the bunch.

This mare reminded me of a mare I know quite well...

Add a black mane and tail to that filly and this could almost be Buttercup with little Sandy girl at her side...

I was very impressed with the facility. The horses were all well kept, everyone was super friendly and I was encouraged to wander anywhere I wanted and to take as many pictures/video as I wanted. They only places off limits were inside the pens and alleyways (for obvious reasons!).

From what I had read online I was half expecting the BLM folks to be evil and secretive about what they did with the horses. I spent 20 minutes chatting with one of the guys who had just moved the studs into the holding pen and he explained EVERYTHING I could ever want to know about how they went about handling the studs, gelding them, adopting the horses, etc. They pretty much have it down to a science.

We also chatted about adoption fees, he said the usual price is $125 but he's been adopting out horses for $50 for the last few months. He said back in 2008 they dropped the price to $25 and that was a disaster, over half the horses adopted out came right back. He admitted that it might be a fluke but he suspected the low price drew in folks that weren't prepared for mustang ownership. He said they wouldn't do that again.

Their holding capacity is about 1,800 head. (Crazy!) They were about at capacity when I visited, they had just gotten in ~100 head from the Elko area and were expecting about ~125 more that would put them at capacity. Interesting thing was, the place didn't SMELL. Sounds funny I know but think about 1,800 horses, that's A LOT of manure. I've been to barns with a fraction of that many horses and it smells like a barn. Not here! Everything was super clean.

Another interesting note, the man I chatted with showed me a wild MULE that had been gathered. Wasn't expecting that! It was a molly mule and he said you see them from time to time in areas where there are bigger Jacks. He said the Jacks have their own harems of mares and everything. Pretty cool!

Japanese Garden

2010-11-03T22:17:00.002-04:00

Just a couple of pictures from my trip to the Japanese Garden in Portland. It was a beautiful day and the fall colors were just about perfect!

They say the outside of a horse is good for the inside of a man (in this case a WOMAN)

2010-10-25T14:50:00.002-04:00

I've had a whirlwind month, there have been a lot of high highs and some really low lows.

It's been a lot to have to handle! At my most stressed point I was home in Maryland. It had been a particularly difficult day so I went to a place that I knew would make me feel better- the barn.

Buttercup greeted me with a whinny and ambled over to see what we were up to (she's become a million times sweeter in her old age!). I broke out my brushes and went to town on her coat. She's started to fuzz up for the winter.

With each stroke of the brush I could feel my stress and worry decrease. I was brushing away the dirt from her coat and the stress from my body. At the end of the grooming session I felt a million times lighter, more centered and happy.

Guess it really is true that the outside of a horse is good for the inside of a woman.

Dear Buttercup-

2010-10-19T11:48:00.002-04:00

I know you are getting a little older, your back is a little swayed and you can't see as well as you used to but-
There's something we need to discuss.

I understand that the grass is greener on the other side of the fence (it always seems that way to you horses). But you have new neighbors and their newborns need to get the swing of things before you come charging through...

Therefore, I politely request that you remain on your side of the fence. No more walking through/knocking down fences (I know you can see them, we put up enough ribbon! Not to mention the rails!!) and leading my Dad on a two and a half hour chase through the pasture. I'm sure it was great fun and I am glad you decided to exercise on your own but Dad was not so happy.

I got a phone call about MY horse (that's you!) and well this is your polite reminder to behave. There's plenty of food on your side of the fence.

Thank you-

Your Loving Owner

He proposed!

2010-10-14T15:54:00.001-04:00

And I said, "YES!!"

Cute Kid

2010-10-08T15:27:00.001-04:00

Gorillaboy is coming!

2010-10-08T12:39:00.001-04:00

He arrives this evening and tomorrow we're hitting the road on our our way to Walla Walla, WA!

The end of an era...

2010-10-06T14:37:00.002-04:00

Last night I hung up my cleats and ended my career as an Oregon rec league softball player.

It was a bittersweet moment. Playing softball this summer and fall was amazing. I met a lot of really great people, got into better shape and even felt the thrill of victory by taking home a league championship. Knowing the season is over and that I won't be coming back is kinda sad. I'm going to miss my teammates! I feel truly lucky to have ended up on such a great team.

Walking out of the stadium last night was hard. It was very much like the last time I stepped off the field in high school, and the last times I walked out the in-gate of the show rings in 4-H and college. The finality of it, it's a bit hard to take sometimes. I'm walking away and never coming back...

Maybe I am being overly sentimental and dramatic.

One good thing about the end of the season though...

It means I am that much closer to moving back to Maryland!!!

Race for the Cure!

2010-10-04T17:27:00.002-04:00

Put your feet in the circle if you're with me!

Checking In

2010-09-24T16:36:00.002-04:00

I finished a major work project this week. It actually is the last major project I'll be in charge of here in Oregon. The transition of "power" has begun, I am no longer lead on many of my projects. Now I'm the trainer of my successor. It's a source of mixed feelings for me. I like the idea of less responsibility and less stress but I am also kinda protective of "my" projects. Afterall, they're mine! I shouldn't have to share!

Since it's officially Fall, I decorated my porch area with mums and a handmade "wreath" inspired by Thrifty Decor Chick . I have some Halloween plans too but they are to be designed :o)

I'm so excited about Fall, I've been lining up little adventures for myself and my friends. So far we plan on going to Wooden Shoe Farm's 1st Annual Pumpkin Fest, visiting Roloff Farms for their Pumpkin Season and possibly conquering another corn maze that was on Groupon. Fun stuff!!!

I also have to find time to design a costume for Stormy. Last year he was a storm cloud and it was a huge hit. Now I need to one up that design. Any ideas??? I really would love to make him a sheep costume, since he's a sheepdog and give those dauchshunds that always win competitions for dressing up like hot dogs a run for their money! Not so sure how to make him look like he has sheep ears....

I've also decided to officially, officially retire Buttercup. I am having the farrier pull her shoes this next visit so she can officially become a pasture puff. No more trail rides for the old girl, maybe just some trail walks with me!

Anywho, i'm back to work.

Have a great one!