Last weekend, we took our Labradoodle to the puppy salon to get her hair did, and her nails trimmed and her teeth cleaned. She looked like a new dog when we came to pick her up, and for a few days after, she even acted like a new dog. I almost questioned whether the groomer switched our Marley out with a well-behaved doodle that now looks like a black lab. I should have known better. Marley was biding her time to plan her attack ...
We went to my brother in law's birthday on Tuesday, and we left our newly-perfectly behaved dog out of the crate so she could roam free while we were away. I stupidly, and apparently never learn this lesson, left two boxes of my FAVORITE hostess snacks on the dining room table. When we got home, the box had been shredded and the darn dog carefully unwrapped each chocolate chip-bite out of its wrapper and ate them until the only evidence left behind was shredded cardboard and plastic strewn from one end of the floor to the other. I thought for sure she would throw up or die of a heart attack. So, that evening I woke up several times to "check her vitals." I'd check her breathing, listen to her heart beat, and even resulted to waking her up with a poke just to make sure she was still with me. Thank god the sweets didn't have much of an effect on her. Just a two-day sugar high!
Friday, July 13, 2012
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Happy Anniversary!
Today marks my second wedding anniversary to my husband, and I remember the wedding day as if it were yesterday. At this time, my bridesmaids and I were getting dressed and the photographer was arriving to take photos. I posed with my parents, my nieces and nephew, my grandparents and each of my bridesmaids and matron of honor.
Then, it was off to the church where Father Dan gave us a beautiful, energetic ceremony. As I said my vows, it was like an outer body experience filling my emotions with nerves and excitement all at the same time. After thousands of pictures, we were off to the reception and danced until literally my hip popped out of the socket. It was a perfect day, minus the injury.
Over these past two years, we've had our ups and downs, but I can honestly say that it's been a wonderful ride that I never want to end. He truly is my best friend, and I can't wait to spend the rest of our days together. I love you!
Then, it was off to the church where Father Dan gave us a beautiful, energetic ceremony. As I said my vows, it was like an outer body experience filling my emotions with nerves and excitement all at the same time. After thousands of pictures, we were off to the reception and danced until literally my hip popped out of the socket. It was a perfect day, minus the injury.
Over these past two years, we've had our ups and downs, but I can honestly say that it's been a wonderful ride that I never want to end. He truly is my best friend, and I can't wait to spend the rest of our days together. I love you!
Taken too soon
This morning I attended the funeral of a young teen who will never have the chance to grow up. To be able to aspire to do great things. To carry out those aspirations. Get married. Raise a family, or grow old. It's a story that has affected me more than I can truly express into words.
My heart aches as I think of her parents who can remember as if it were yesterday the day they held her in their arms for the first time. They were proud of the young person she was becoming. Over this past weekend, through the stories that were told, I feel like I got to know this young girl who was beautiful, quirky and kind. She also had an enormous heart.
You never know what to say to the family and friends of someone who has passed away. "I'm so sorry" just doesn't cut it. "He or she lived a long life" is like a knife to the back, and "at least she's at peace" can only be interpreted as a slap in the face. No, no words seem to be comforting enough. No phrase will ever erase the pain that the loved ones feel. But when it is a child who was taken tragically, the loss of words is almost unbearable. Every word you say seems wrong the instant its said out loud. No amount of comfort will ever bring their baby back.
During yesterday's homily, the priest spoke of the life that the young teen led and the impact she had on the hundreds of people assembled in the church. He spoke of the joy she brought to her parents and siblings and friends, and he spoke of the wonderful job her parents did raising her to perfection in God's eyes that lead to her being called home at such a young age - before she really had a chance to live. But one common theme that was heard was that this young lady lived her short life to the fullest.
If there's one thing that I have taken with me, it's that I will honor her life by living my life to the fullest and making the most of the precious time that I have here on earth. I truly will "Dance as though no one is watching."
My heart aches as I think of her parents who can remember as if it were yesterday the day they held her in their arms for the first time. They were proud of the young person she was becoming. Over this past weekend, through the stories that were told, I feel like I got to know this young girl who was beautiful, quirky and kind. She also had an enormous heart.
You never know what to say to the family and friends of someone who has passed away. "I'm so sorry" just doesn't cut it. "He or she lived a long life" is like a knife to the back, and "at least she's at peace" can only be interpreted as a slap in the face. No, no words seem to be comforting enough. No phrase will ever erase the pain that the loved ones feel. But when it is a child who was taken tragically, the loss of words is almost unbearable. Every word you say seems wrong the instant its said out loud. No amount of comfort will ever bring their baby back.
During yesterday's homily, the priest spoke of the life that the young teen led and the impact she had on the hundreds of people assembled in the church. He spoke of the joy she brought to her parents and siblings and friends, and he spoke of the wonderful job her parents did raising her to perfection in God's eyes that lead to her being called home at such a young age - before she really had a chance to live. But one common theme that was heard was that this young lady lived her short life to the fullest.
If there's one thing that I have taken with me, it's that I will honor her life by living my life to the fullest and making the most of the precious time that I have here on earth. I truly will "Dance as though no one is watching."
Monday, June 11, 2012
Life can Change in an Instant
It's amazing when that maternal gene makes herself known to you, and you all of a sudden realize just how much you want to be a mother. For some, it happens unexpectedly and for others it develops over time. For me, it was more gradual, and then in an instant it became all I can think about.
In high school, health instructors teach you that if you have sex, you get pregnant. And for some that statement is true, but for others, you learn that the body is much more complicated, and there are many factors that can prevent this dream from occurring in an instant. It's a long process that has its ups and downs, heartaches and excitements, but in the end, you realize that what's meant to be will be, and it's really out of your control. Fate has a way of taking the reigns and you just have to let go and try to enjoy the ride.
It's that same fate that can change your life dramatically in an instant. This past weekend, two young teenagers decided to walk into a busy street to get to the other side, but fate changed their lives and the lives of their families forever. They were critically injured by a vehicle and now fight for their lives. I did not know these girls personally, but the one was very close to a good friend of mine, and her parents are my acquaintances. When I heard the news, a pit in my stomach the size of a pumpkin developed and it hasn't found its way out. I just keep thinking about how unfair life can be. I can't stop thinking and praying for the two girls whose lives have really just begun, and for their parents who love them unconditionally and whose hearts are broken as they pray for miracles.
A mother dreams of the day she can hold her baby in her arms. From the minute she decides she wants a baby to the second she finds out she's pregnant, through the nine months she carries her baby in her womb, to the day her baby's born. And then she worries that her child will be safe and that the lessons she teaches her will be enough to make her a strong and wonderful human being.
As I sit here I can't help but question why bad things happen to good people. I pray with everything I have that a miracle will happen and that these young teens will recover and go on to live long, healthy lives, and that what happened this past weekend will turn out to be a bad memory, but one with a life lesson that both girls can take with them as they grow old. I pray for their families that they can get through this dark hour, and be strong for their daughters. I'm praying and will continue to pray for their miracle.
In high school, health instructors teach you that if you have sex, you get pregnant. And for some that statement is true, but for others, you learn that the body is much more complicated, and there are many factors that can prevent this dream from occurring in an instant. It's a long process that has its ups and downs, heartaches and excitements, but in the end, you realize that what's meant to be will be, and it's really out of your control. Fate has a way of taking the reigns and you just have to let go and try to enjoy the ride.
It's that same fate that can change your life dramatically in an instant. This past weekend, two young teenagers decided to walk into a busy street to get to the other side, but fate changed their lives and the lives of their families forever. They were critically injured by a vehicle and now fight for their lives. I did not know these girls personally, but the one was very close to a good friend of mine, and her parents are my acquaintances. When I heard the news, a pit in my stomach the size of a pumpkin developed and it hasn't found its way out. I just keep thinking about how unfair life can be. I can't stop thinking and praying for the two girls whose lives have really just begun, and for their parents who love them unconditionally and whose hearts are broken as they pray for miracles.
A mother dreams of the day she can hold her baby in her arms. From the minute she decides she wants a baby to the second she finds out she's pregnant, through the nine months she carries her baby in her womb, to the day her baby's born. And then she worries that her child will be safe and that the lessons she teaches her will be enough to make her a strong and wonderful human being.
As I sit here I can't help but question why bad things happen to good people. I pray with everything I have that a miracle will happen and that these young teens will recover and go on to live long, healthy lives, and that what happened this past weekend will turn out to be a bad memory, but one with a life lesson that both girls can take with them as they grow old. I pray for their families that they can get through this dark hour, and be strong for their daughters. I'm praying and will continue to pray for their miracle.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Tug of War
Yesterday, Marley had her annual vet appointment. She's healthy, but 8 pounds overweight, so we decided to cut back from 3 cups of food/day to only two. This morning, she let me know that she was still hungry by grabbing a cardboard box and ripping it to shreds. I gave her tough love though by I scolding her and not giving in to her whimpers for more food. We'll see how long it takes her to adjust.
Last night after Marley's vet appointment, Eric and I went to PetSmart to buy food, treats and a toy for my not-so-little terror. We can't buy her stuffed animals because she rips them apart and then eats them, we can't buy her plastic toys because she breaks them apart and eats them and we can't buy her tennis balls because once again she eats them. So we have to resort to the more expensive Kong-brand dog toys that take an extra long time for her to destroy.
Last night, we decided on getting her a tug of war contraption. The concept is that she grabs one end, we grab the other and we wrestle, which would give her more exercise and help her shed some of those unwanted pounds. The problem is that Marley can't comprehend the game. She just wants to chew on it. And while I am so glad that obedience school is starting to pay off, Marley no longer understands the game of tug of war. When we get our end of the toy, Marley instantly drops her end. Eric even tried putting his end in his mouth so that she could visualize the concept of the game... gross. It took more than 20 minutes before Marley finally understood that it was ok to play with the toy by tugging on her end while I held on for dear life on my end. It was short-lived, however, Marley walked away within 5 minutes of the game starting and went back to chewing on it. We'll practice again tonight.
Last night after Marley's vet appointment, Eric and I went to PetSmart to buy food, treats and a toy for my not-so-little terror. We can't buy her stuffed animals because she rips them apart and then eats them, we can't buy her plastic toys because she breaks them apart and eats them and we can't buy her tennis balls because once again she eats them. So we have to resort to the more expensive Kong-brand dog toys that take an extra long time for her to destroy.
Last night, we decided on getting her a tug of war contraption. The concept is that she grabs one end, we grab the other and we wrestle, which would give her more exercise and help her shed some of those unwanted pounds. The problem is that Marley can't comprehend the game. She just wants to chew on it. And while I am so glad that obedience school is starting to pay off, Marley no longer understands the game of tug of war. When we get our end of the toy, Marley instantly drops her end. Eric even tried putting his end in his mouth so that she could visualize the concept of the game... gross. It took more than 20 minutes before Marley finally understood that it was ok to play with the toy by tugging on her end while I held on for dear life on my end. It was short-lived, however, Marley walked away within 5 minutes of the game starting and went back to chewing on it. We'll practice again tonight.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Sunshine = Smile
I am very happy that the warm weather has finally decided to grace us with its presence here in Western New York. Don't get me wrong, we had a relatively mild winter, and some even say we didn't have much of a winter at all. However, in my opinion, it was still chilly until just recently and this past week has been gorgeous!
Warm weather puts me in a fabulous mood - although not the hot, hot, hot weather (when it's too hot, I'm a hot mess) - rather when the temperature allows the sun to warm your face, but not drench your hair with sweat. I love to open the windows and let a nice cross breeze in, and it's music to my ears hearing the birds chirp and the neighborhood children laughing as they play outside. It's just hard to be unhappy with the sun is shining bright. Last night, I met a friend for a stroll in the park and although it had just rained, and the mugginess and the bugginess were not the most pleasant (refer back to the sweat hair comment) it was still wonderful to be outside doing outside things. Happy Spring all!
Warm weather puts me in a fabulous mood - although not the hot, hot, hot weather (when it's too hot, I'm a hot mess) - rather when the temperature allows the sun to warm your face, but not drench your hair with sweat. I love to open the windows and let a nice cross breeze in, and it's music to my ears hearing the birds chirp and the neighborhood children laughing as they play outside. It's just hard to be unhappy with the sun is shining bright. Last night, I met a friend for a stroll in the park and although it had just rained, and the mugginess and the bugginess were not the most pleasant (refer back to the sweat hair comment) it was still wonderful to be outside doing outside things. Happy Spring all!
Monday, May 7, 2012
Cinco De Mayo, fifth in class: coincidence?
Saturday was Marley's last obedience class, but she wasn't as excited to go as she normally was. She seemed off from the minute we woke up on Saturday, and Eric leaned over and said to me that maybe we should skip the class. I told him no, that we were going to the class, and that she'd be fine. I said her ADD would subside once we got settled, but I'm ashamed to admit that I was wrong.
When we got to class, she was going crazy. She was jumping, not listening and pulling as we walked into school. She just wouldn't settle down, and it was as if we were back to week one. She "forgot" how to lay down, she needed to be told repeatedly to sit and she refused to do the obstacle course in a timely fashion. Needless to say, I was embarrassed by Marley. After the obstacle course, we went outside to practice come when called. I was adamant that she would listen to me and I was determined to prove my husband wrong, I told him she really did know the command and she wouldn't be distracted by the other dogs and the play area. Little did I know, Marley was dead set on proving me wrong. She ran right passed me, and refused to come back. When we finally went back inside, we were given awards and Marley placed last, but the trainer tried to throw us a bone by saying she tied with the American bulldog in the class for fourth. I told her that our feelings weren't hurt, and it was ok to be honest, Marley placed fifth out of the five dogs in attendance. It's hard to admit when you're wrong, but I should have listened to my husband and stayed away from the evaluation class. Marley and me, we still have some work to do.
When we got to class, she was going crazy. She was jumping, not listening and pulling as we walked into school. She just wouldn't settle down, and it was as if we were back to week one. She "forgot" how to lay down, she needed to be told repeatedly to sit and she refused to do the obstacle course in a timely fashion. Needless to say, I was embarrassed by Marley. After the obstacle course, we went outside to practice come when called. I was adamant that she would listen to me and I was determined to prove my husband wrong, I told him she really did know the command and she wouldn't be distracted by the other dogs and the play area. Little did I know, Marley was dead set on proving me wrong. She ran right passed me, and refused to come back. When we finally went back inside, we were given awards and Marley placed last, but the trainer tried to throw us a bone by saying she tied with the American bulldog in the class for fourth. I told her that our feelings weren't hurt, and it was ok to be honest, Marley placed fifth out of the five dogs in attendance. It's hard to admit when you're wrong, but I should have listened to my husband and stayed away from the evaluation class. Marley and me, we still have some work to do.
Monday, April 16, 2012
From suicidal to homicidal?
While I was on the phone with my mother yesterday I overheard my husband tell Marley not to move. His exact words - in a low, calming voice were, "Marley, don't move, relax. Ugh you are such a crazy dog." My ears immediately perked up as I asked him what was going on. Still in a calm, soothing voice, he tells my that the dog has gotten a hold of a steak knife, and she has it in her mouth... Seriously? How did she get a hold of a freaking steak knife?
I tell my mom that I'll have to call her back, because Marley is in a stand off with Eric and she has a knife in her mouth and could lunge at him at any moment. She couldn't help but laugh at this hilarious, but dangerous situation. As I left the home office, Marley booked it down the stairs and into the living room. I tried to cut her off by using the kitchen entrance, but she ran past me. Eric, in a now annoyed voice, asked me why I didn't do a better job at blocking her... um, hello, have you forgotten the important fact that she has a knife and I don't want to get cut and have to explain to a doctor how I was injured in a knife fight with my 1 year old labradoodle.
Within seconds, however, I got her to drop her weapon by using the highly-persuasive negotiating method of bribery by pupperoni. It's her kryptonite, and she immediately dropped the knife without incident. Luckily no one, including Marley, was hurt, but I'm still baffled as to how she got the knife from the drawer.
Something tells me Canine Academy is going to regret offering pet owners the option of repeating obedience classes for free. Marley certainly has not mastered any of the commands that we have been working on - such as come when called, drop it, or leave it. She's a sweet dog, but I seriously think she could benefit from seeing a psychologist. She's literally nuts!
I tell my mom that I'll have to call her back, because Marley is in a stand off with Eric and she has a knife in her mouth and could lunge at him at any moment. She couldn't help but laugh at this hilarious, but dangerous situation. As I left the home office, Marley booked it down the stairs and into the living room. I tried to cut her off by using the kitchen entrance, but she ran past me. Eric, in a now annoyed voice, asked me why I didn't do a better job at blocking her... um, hello, have you forgotten the important fact that she has a knife and I don't want to get cut and have to explain to a doctor how I was injured in a knife fight with my 1 year old labradoodle.
Within seconds, however, I got her to drop her weapon by using the highly-persuasive negotiating method of bribery by pupperoni. It's her kryptonite, and she immediately dropped the knife without incident. Luckily no one, including Marley, was hurt, but I'm still baffled as to how she got the knife from the drawer.
Something tells me Canine Academy is going to regret offering pet owners the option of repeating obedience classes for free. Marley certainly has not mastered any of the commands that we have been working on - such as come when called, drop it, or leave it. She's a sweet dog, but I seriously think she could benefit from seeing a psychologist. She's literally nuts!
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Changes to be Made
Ever look back at life and think of ways to improve? I've been doing some considerable self reflection in the past few months and realized that I can definitely improve the way I choose to lead my life.
For instance, somethings are better left unsaid. I have learned the hard way that I need to be careful of what I say in my attempts to be an open and honest person. Sometimes, I may have a tendency to reveal my feelings when maybe it'd be better if I kept my thoughts to my self. Life change number 1... take a step back and think before I speak.
Life change number 2. I don't know everything, so I need to make a better attempt to learn something new every day. Rather than nodding and keeping my questions to myself, I need to ask the right questions so that I can learn the necessary information, rather than having to go back and look it up later. No one will think I'm ill-prepared if I ask a pertinent question. In fact, there may be someone else in the crowd who's wondering the same thing.
Finally, I need to realize that I can not control everything. Sometimes, you just have to leave things to fate. I need to enjoy my life as it is today, and welcome the changes of tomorrow.
There are always ways to self improve, and that's what I intend to do. I'll strive to be a better wife, sister, daughter, aunt, friend and professional. At the end of the day, I need to reflect and be proud of who I am and who I intend to be now and in the future.
For instance, somethings are better left unsaid. I have learned the hard way that I need to be careful of what I say in my attempts to be an open and honest person. Sometimes, I may have a tendency to reveal my feelings when maybe it'd be better if I kept my thoughts to my self. Life change number 1... take a step back and think before I speak.
Life change number 2. I don't know everything, so I need to make a better attempt to learn something new every day. Rather than nodding and keeping my questions to myself, I need to ask the right questions so that I can learn the necessary information, rather than having to go back and look it up later. No one will think I'm ill-prepared if I ask a pertinent question. In fact, there may be someone else in the crowd who's wondering the same thing.
Finally, I need to realize that I can not control everything. Sometimes, you just have to leave things to fate. I need to enjoy my life as it is today, and welcome the changes of tomorrow.
There are always ways to self improve, and that's what I intend to do. I'll strive to be a better wife, sister, daughter, aunt, friend and professional. At the end of the day, I need to reflect and be proud of who I am and who I intend to be now and in the future.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Seven years feels like yesterday.
It's hard to believe that yesterday marked the seventh anniversary of your going home to heaven to reunite with the love of your life, but I want you to know that when you left, a void was created that can never be replaced.
I'll never forget that fateful day that I left my house keys in my dorm room and needed to come over to borrow yours. I had planned on a visit anyway, but the situation prompted me to come over sooner in the day. I'm glad that I was there, but sad that I didn't understand the severity of the situation until later. At first, I thought you were sleeping, but the look on your face told me something was wrong. The look in your eyes and the urgency in your grasp is an image and a sadness that will haunt me forever. I wish I could have brought you some comfort in your time of need as you did so often for me. The ensuing week was one of the worst of my life, but knowing that you were heading home has brought me great comfort. Time may heal pain, but on the day you left, you took a piece of my heart. It's a piece that always belonged to you as my Nanny, my family and my confidant.
I'll always cherish the conversations we had about your childhood and how you grew into the strong, spunky and beloved woman that you were. The sound of your voice still rings in my ears, because some of my favorite memories involved sitting with you and talking - talking about today, talking about yesterday, talking about Papa and how he would drive you mad, but it didn't matter because you loved him with every fiber in your being. With these talks came life lessons and it's because of these lessons that you taught me to be strong and independent; to be spunky and fun; to be kind and to love from the tips of my fingers to the depths of my soul. You taught me to have faith in Christ and the Blessed Mother, and you taught me that the power of prayer can help conquer any roadblock that may come my way. The life lessons that you gave to me will always be present in the decisions that I make.
I love you today as much as I did then, and I hope that I have made you proud. Miss you always and forever.
I'll never forget that fateful day that I left my house keys in my dorm room and needed to come over to borrow yours. I had planned on a visit anyway, but the situation prompted me to come over sooner in the day. I'm glad that I was there, but sad that I didn't understand the severity of the situation until later. At first, I thought you were sleeping, but the look on your face told me something was wrong. The look in your eyes and the urgency in your grasp is an image and a sadness that will haunt me forever. I wish I could have brought you some comfort in your time of need as you did so often for me. The ensuing week was one of the worst of my life, but knowing that you were heading home has brought me great comfort. Time may heal pain, but on the day you left, you took a piece of my heart. It's a piece that always belonged to you as my Nanny, my family and my confidant.
I'll always cherish the conversations we had about your childhood and how you grew into the strong, spunky and beloved woman that you were. The sound of your voice still rings in my ears, because some of my favorite memories involved sitting with you and talking - talking about today, talking about yesterday, talking about Papa and how he would drive you mad, but it didn't matter because you loved him with every fiber in your being. With these talks came life lessons and it's because of these lessons that you taught me to be strong and independent; to be spunky and fun; to be kind and to love from the tips of my fingers to the depths of my soul. You taught me to have faith in Christ and the Blessed Mother, and you taught me that the power of prayer can help conquer any roadblock that may come my way. The life lessons that you gave to me will always be present in the decisions that I make.
I love you today as much as I did then, and I hope that I have made you proud. Miss you always and forever.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
suicide hotline for dogs?
So, I'm pretty sure that my dog is suicidal, since she just loves to get into things that could potentially kill her. Yesterday, while I was in the shower getting ready for work, I heard my hubby start yelling at Marley that she's a nut case with a serious screw loose. Then, he called for me to get out of the shower, because Marley managed to get an unopened bottle of aspirin off the counter and proceeded to eat the 32 pills contained inside.
First of all, I thought these bottles were child proof? Apparently that does not mean they are dog proof. Hair still soapy, I immediately got out the peroxide to induce vomiting. The first spoonful, I had help from the husband because I thought Marley would fight tooth and nail to not swallow it. Not my dog, she enjoyed the taste and wanted more. After 7 minutes of no throw up, I called the vet to explain the predicament we were in. I gave her a few more spoonfuls of the peroxide and finally she started to puke. The vet told me to bring her in right away, so I rinsed the remaining suds out of my hair, threw it back in a ponytail and got Marley into the car. She vomited two more times on the floor in the car and was ready to go once we got to the office. After an evaluation, we decided to keep her hospitalized for the day with fluids and another "coal" diet to help induce more vomiting. I went to work and kept the cell phone glued to my hip.
At 4:30 the vet called to say Marley was ready to come home and she was quite a handful while there. I asked the vet if there was a suicide hotline for pets we could call, and while she laughed, she explained that some dogs are just destructive. She then told me that Marley is the first dog they have ever seen that wanted more coal after her first bowl to help get her to vomit. After her stomach was cleared, she pretty much wanted to play all day, making it difficult to keep the IV with fluids in. She barked most of the day and kept the vet techs amused with her usual antics. Eric picked her up and when I got home she was happy and the same old puppy as usual. Later in the day I noticed she looked a little queasy, and it's my hope that she learned her lesson. I know that I have - when I get medicine it needs to be immediately locked away in the medicine cabinet. I don't have children yet, but I guess I need to start child proofing the house for the 66 lbs Labradoodle-terror that I have living with us.
We have her in obedience classes, and she's definitely made progress, but maybe she needs therapy, too. Anyone know of a dog psychologist they can recommend? We definitely have our hands full.
First of all, I thought these bottles were child proof? Apparently that does not mean they are dog proof. Hair still soapy, I immediately got out the peroxide to induce vomiting. The first spoonful, I had help from the husband because I thought Marley would fight tooth and nail to not swallow it. Not my dog, she enjoyed the taste and wanted more. After 7 minutes of no throw up, I called the vet to explain the predicament we were in. I gave her a few more spoonfuls of the peroxide and finally she started to puke. The vet told me to bring her in right away, so I rinsed the remaining suds out of my hair, threw it back in a ponytail and got Marley into the car. She vomited two more times on the floor in the car and was ready to go once we got to the office. After an evaluation, we decided to keep her hospitalized for the day with fluids and another "coal" diet to help induce more vomiting. I went to work and kept the cell phone glued to my hip.
At 4:30 the vet called to say Marley was ready to come home and she was quite a handful while there. I asked the vet if there was a suicide hotline for pets we could call, and while she laughed, she explained that some dogs are just destructive. She then told me that Marley is the first dog they have ever seen that wanted more coal after her first bowl to help get her to vomit. After her stomach was cleared, she pretty much wanted to play all day, making it difficult to keep the IV with fluids in. She barked most of the day and kept the vet techs amused with her usual antics. Eric picked her up and when I got home she was happy and the same old puppy as usual. Later in the day I noticed she looked a little queasy, and it's my hope that she learned her lesson. I know that I have - when I get medicine it needs to be immediately locked away in the medicine cabinet. I don't have children yet, but I guess I need to start child proofing the house for the 66 lbs Labradoodle-terror that I have living with us.
We have her in obedience classes, and she's definitely made progress, but maybe she needs therapy, too. Anyone know of a dog psychologist they can recommend? We definitely have our hands full.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
The morning routine
Today was one of those mornings where I just did not want to get out of bed. My alarm was set for just before 7 a.m., but my biological clock woke me at 6:30 a.m. in preparation of the day. I closed my eyes and attempted to go back to sleep until the buzz of the daily wake up call, especially since I had every intention of hitting the snooze at least twice before getting ready for my work day.
Unfortunately, I have learned that I really don't need the alarm clock as I have a 70 lbs. dog who suffices just fine. As I lay there pretending to sleep, Marley inched her way closer and closer to the nape of my neck as she does most mornings, regardless if it's a work day or a weekend, and she nuzzles, then loudly yawns, then scoots her butt so it lands on top of me, then she nudges me with her paw, and then she sits above me and stares. It's the creepiest feeling in the world to have something hover over your resting body watching, waiting and breathing on your skin. But her persistence always pays off, because every morning I relent and get up. Eric has tried countless times to get up with her when she starts her antics, but that darn dog is adamant that I be the one to get up, let her out and feed her growling stomach that she will not move from her crouched position above my head until I get up with her. It's a wonderful feeling being loved so much, but on days like today when I want to snooze just a wee bit longer, it becomes a drag.
Unfortunately, I have learned that I really don't need the alarm clock as I have a 70 lbs. dog who suffices just fine. As I lay there pretending to sleep, Marley inched her way closer and closer to the nape of my neck as she does most mornings, regardless if it's a work day or a weekend, and she nuzzles, then loudly yawns, then scoots her butt so it lands on top of me, then she nudges me with her paw, and then she sits above me and stares. It's the creepiest feeling in the world to have something hover over your resting body watching, waiting and breathing on your skin. But her persistence always pays off, because every morning I relent and get up. Eric has tried countless times to get up with her when she starts her antics, but that darn dog is adamant that I be the one to get up, let her out and feed her growling stomach that she will not move from her crouched position above my head until I get up with her. It's a wonderful feeling being loved so much, but on days like today when I want to snooze just a wee bit longer, it becomes a drag.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Thankful to the driver in front
This morning I decided that the cup of coffee I had at home before I left for work was not enough to get myself prepared for the day. Marley, love her dearly, might be the WORST sleep partner ever - whose idea was it to let her sleep in bed with us, anyway? Eric, if you're reading this DO NOT answer! You see, Marley refuses to sleep at the edge of the bed like a normal dog. (However, if you've read any of my previous posts, you know she's not a normal dog.) Instead, she insists on sleeping right smack between us, and if Eric and I try to cuddle, she noses and wedges her way in between, even resorting to plopping herself down right on top of me in a last ditch ever to make me move over. And let me tell you, 70 pounds of Labradoodle can do a number on your back, so she usually wins that battle. Most nights, she snores and snuggles up next to my ear, which I usually don't mind in the winter because she becomes another source of body heat. However last night, while resting comfortably in her usual spot, Marley got a bad case of hairball and was hacking up a storm. Eric, afraid she was going to puke, started yelling for me to get the dog out of the bed because she was going to throw up. How am I going to get the dog out of the bed any faster than he would? I digress... Long story short she did not end up tossing her cookies, but nonetheless I was awoken from my dreams and therefore extra tired this morning.
So back to the coffee... I stopped at Manhattan Bagel, which is right next to my office for a breakfast sandwich and medium double double. After an excessively long wait, I received my sandwich sans the coffee which had not been charged to my order. Since there was a long line behind me, I decided I would drive to the other side of my office building to McDonalds to get my .79 cent coffee instead. I pulled into the drive thru with just one vehicle in front of me, placed my order and waited... and waited... what the heck was taking so long? Apparently the proud Marine mom in front of me had a rather large drive thru order, and it is because of that, that she paid for my coffee. I was so grateful and as I poked my head out the window, she called back for me to have a great day. I said thank you for the coffee and thank you for your child's service to our country. As the decals on her minivan said, Semper Fi! She was a proud Marine mom, and she was doing what she could to make her mark on the world. She certainly left a great impression on me this morning, and a little less grumpy me at that.
So back to the coffee... I stopped at Manhattan Bagel, which is right next to my office for a breakfast sandwich and medium double double. After an excessively long wait, I received my sandwich sans the coffee which had not been charged to my order. Since there was a long line behind me, I decided I would drive to the other side of my office building to McDonalds to get my .79 cent coffee instead. I pulled into the drive thru with just one vehicle in front of me, placed my order and waited... and waited... what the heck was taking so long? Apparently the proud Marine mom in front of me had a rather large drive thru order, and it is because of that, that she paid for my coffee. I was so grateful and as I poked my head out the window, she called back for me to have a great day. I said thank you for the coffee and thank you for your child's service to our country. As the decals on her minivan said, Semper Fi! She was a proud Marine mom, and she was doing what she could to make her mark on the world. She certainly left a great impression on me this morning, and a little less grumpy me at that.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Happy New Year?
There has been much speculation that 2012 will be the last year of our existence. I can't say that I believe this to be true, but nonetheless it encourages me to live life to its very fullest.
My husband and I recently watched a "Decoded" show on the end of the world according to Mayan calculations, and I found it hilarious when Eric suggested that we stock up on water and canned food, but had laughed at me just a few months prior when I told him that we should stock up "just in case" the prediction comes true. Heck, I should laugh at him a bit harder, because if the end of the world does indeed come, then who the heck needs food and water if we're all moving on to the world beyond.
Truthfully, I type this in jest, because although I found most of the "predictions" to be pretty far fetched, it is only a matter of time before some catastrophic event changes the world as we know it. I highly doubt the human race will be completely eliminated, and I truly do pray that I do not live to see the end of the world no matter if it's in totality or just as we see it today. No matter the means I pray that the "end" comes many, many years after my family is long gone, including extended family and that of my future children, their future children, their future children and so on.
However, should the end be near, I have made a list of ways I can self improve to better my standing with the big guy upstairs. That, and it's never a bad thing to want to live life a little healthier, wealthier and have a better outlook
1) I will think before I speak and consider the person's feelings on the other end of the conversation
2) I will put family first no matter the circumstances
3) I will be a better friend, partner, daughter, sister and aunt
4) I will clean more often
5) I will put the clothes away, if not immediately, within two days of drying, folding and bringing the clothes upstairs
6) I will be a mother (before I am 30) and be a damn good one at that
7) I will exercise at least 3 times a week and eat healthier
8) I will be better with finances by saving for our future - no matter how soon or far away it may be
9) I will spend more time with my nephew and neices
10) I will have more patience
This list is in no particular order, but some items do carry more weight than others. Some may be negotiable, while others are not. And some, one in particular, is out of my control, but would thrill me if it comes true.
Finally, I will do better at living this quote:
“You've gotta dance like there's nobody watching,
Love like you'll never be hurt,
Sing like there's nobody listening,
And live like it's heaven on earth.”
Happy New Year!
My husband and I recently watched a "Decoded" show on the end of the world according to Mayan calculations, and I found it hilarious when Eric suggested that we stock up on water and canned food, but had laughed at me just a few months prior when I told him that we should stock up "just in case" the prediction comes true. Heck, I should laugh at him a bit harder, because if the end of the world does indeed come, then who the heck needs food and water if we're all moving on to the world beyond.
Truthfully, I type this in jest, because although I found most of the "predictions" to be pretty far fetched, it is only a matter of time before some catastrophic event changes the world as we know it. I highly doubt the human race will be completely eliminated, and I truly do pray that I do not live to see the end of the world no matter if it's in totality or just as we see it today. No matter the means I pray that the "end" comes many, many years after my family is long gone, including extended family and that of my future children, their future children, their future children and so on.
However, should the end be near, I have made a list of ways I can self improve to better my standing with the big guy upstairs. That, and it's never a bad thing to want to live life a little healthier, wealthier and have a better outlook
1) I will think before I speak and consider the person's feelings on the other end of the conversation
2) I will put family first no matter the circumstances
3) I will be a better friend, partner, daughter, sister and aunt
4) I will clean more often
5) I will put the clothes away, if not immediately, within two days of drying, folding and bringing the clothes upstairs
6) I will be a mother (before I am 30) and be a damn good one at that
7) I will exercise at least 3 times a week and eat healthier
8) I will be better with finances by saving for our future - no matter how soon or far away it may be
9) I will spend more time with my nephew and neices
10) I will have more patience
This list is in no particular order, but some items do carry more weight than others. Some may be negotiable, while others are not. And some, one in particular, is out of my control, but would thrill me if it comes true.
Finally, I will do better at living this quote:
“You've gotta dance like there's nobody watching,
Love like you'll never be hurt,
Sing like there's nobody listening,
And live like it's heaven on earth.”
Happy New Year!
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