Saturday, March 28, 2009
Lucy is Nesting
Yes, I do believe she is going to drop some eggs shortly since she has been building (er, digging) this nest for herself. I caught her perched in it the other day. Imagine my surprise. Who knew that Greyhounds nested? :) Perhaps soon she'll learn how to fly, too!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Another Cooking Adventure
Yummy, yummy, yummy! Doesn't that look delightful? It's my first pass at making homemade cake donuts. I'm taking them to work with me today to share with my workmates. They are the best taste testers! I'll let you know how they like them!
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
The Funniest Question I've Ever Been Asked
This morning on the train, I was approached by a guy - actually another panhandler. He started chatting with me whilst I had my Zune blasting tunes through my ear plugs! I couldn't hear a word he was saying. It always amazes me that folks can't see black wires dangling from one's ears and more than likely they know the person is listening to music, yet they will talk and talk. But I digress.
I yanked the ear plugs out of my ears because the guy seemed a little persistent. BTW, this is about 6:20 a.m. He immediately said, "First, let me say good morning." By the look on my face, I'm sure he realized I was not amused nor did I think it such a "good morning", especially after he interrupted a perfectly wonderful Pink Floyd tune I was listening to. He then said, "Would you like to help me get on the bus legally?" If I hadn't been so PO'd, I probably would have laughed in his face! I immediately replied, "No". He then stood up and walked down the train car to harass someone else. When he stood up, I noticed his pants were down around his knees. I would have gladly given him $25 to go buy new pants that fit, if I thought that is what he would have done with the money!
Get on the bus legally - for Pete's sake, it seems he gets on the bus and train just fine legally or not. These folks will try just about anything I guess! He really should come up with a better line!! And a better approach!!
I yanked the ear plugs out of my ears because the guy seemed a little persistent. BTW, this is about 6:20 a.m. He immediately said, "First, let me say good morning." By the look on my face, I'm sure he realized I was not amused nor did I think it such a "good morning", especially after he interrupted a perfectly wonderful Pink Floyd tune I was listening to. He then said, "Would you like to help me get on the bus legally?" If I hadn't been so PO'd, I probably would have laughed in his face! I immediately replied, "No". He then stood up and walked down the train car to harass someone else. When he stood up, I noticed his pants were down around his knees. I would have gladly given him $25 to go buy new pants that fit, if I thought that is what he would have done with the money!
Get on the bus legally - for Pete's sake, it seems he gets on the bus and train just fine legally or not. These folks will try just about anything I guess! He really should come up with a better line!! And a better approach!!
Friday, March 06, 2009
Observations
My, my what a week it has been. It started out with 20 degree weather and snow on the ground and will happily end with 70 degree weather and blue skies. We usually have a freak Spring snow storm, it seems. Pretty weird, but it happens. Never in the winter but usually in the Spring. Go figure. Only in Georgia!
In spite of the cold, snowy start, the week really didn’t seem to get any better. Well, not until today with the temperatures soaring into the high 60’s and beyond. There will be many folks playing hooky this afternoon, I’m sure of it. I, myself, am leaving shortly to go run some errands and then head home to start cooking for our wine tasting benefit tomorrow evening. We also have a Meet and Greet in the morning at Pooch Porch Café in Alpharetta. Busy, busy, busy!
But I should share with everyone some of my mass commuting experiences of the week. It began on Monday morning. I was not physically present for this one, however, a full blown description of the event was provided to me by my workmates. I happened to have been on the train directly behind the one they were riding, thank God, so I did not witness this. I would have died laughing I think, and probably would have been shot on the spot.
Nonetheless, it was a very frigid morning with the temps barely breaking 20 degrees. This is, of course, about 6:15 a.m. I don’t think the sun was even up at that point. So what happened on the train, you ask? Well, my workmates were sitting in the train when a fellow rider got up from his seat and promptly walked to the end of the train car. You can walk from train car to train car by opening the doors (just like in the movies), however, this is suppose to be for emergencies only. I guess this must have been an emergency, at least for this man or at least in his own mind. He stepped out of the train car, turned to his right and then put his head down, never venturing to cross over to the next train car. He then stood there for a minute and then shook himself a bit. He fumbled around a bit, and then walked back to his seat. Yes, you guessed it, he was relieving himself. In the frigid weather, no doubt, while the train is moving about 50 mph. I’m surprised he has a weenie left after that display. Again, I would have died laughing and probably would have been shot for doing so.
Wednesday morning we were leaving our train station in our shuttle van, heading to work. Walking across the parking lot was a black man on the arm of a white, red-haired woman. None of this was odd, but the fact that they were both blind is what struck me. Yes, they both had walking sticks so it was apparent they were blind. They quickly crossed the parking lot, heading straight for the turnstiles to enter the train station. Once at the turnstiles, they found their MARTA cards which gained them entrance into the station. They walked straight across to another bank of turnstiles which led to several MARTA buses waiting to take passengers to different areas on their routes. They passed through those turnstiles and then climbed onto one of the waiting buses. I just sat there watching this entire thing with awe and wonderment. It struck me as so, because those of us who are sighted have such a difficult time with the MARTA system (sometimes, well, yes maybe a lot of the time), so that it is totally awesome that folks who are challenged are able to navigate through the system and safely get from point A to point B. I’ve seen many blind folks in the stations during the last year and every time it moves me more than the last.
Then yesterday on the train from Brookhaven to Five Points, the train stalled at the Lindbergh station, for what appeared to be, no apparent reason. We sat there for about 20 minutes and then were asked to leave our train and wait on the platform for the next train waiting to approach the station, which we did. Then a train on the Northbound track approached going Southbound. A bunch of folks got off that train and came over to our train. We then sat there for another 35 minutes or so, with the doors open, and people milling about here and there. Another train came on the Northbound track, going Southbound. We thought it was there to pick us up so we all disembarked and went over to that train. On the train signs, it said it was headed to the Airport which would have been the direction we were going. Once on the train, the conductor announced that no, it was headed back Northbound to the Chamblee station, basically where we had started from. That was definitely not the direction we needed to go so we quickly disembarked, running back to our original train which was still sitting there.
Apparently at the very next station there had been a fire on the tracks, actually on the Southbound side which is why we were detained for so long, although the word on the streets at the time was that there was a fire in the tunnel. Neither situation was good for us as no trains were going Southbound or Northbound, between the Arts Center station and the Lindbergh Station and we had to get past the Arts Center station to get to Five Points to catch our bus.
Our original, now empty, train was directed to go ahead of us. We figure it was the “sacrificial train”. If it made it through the tunnel, then they would send in our train, which was now full of people. We had been sitting there for some time and these trains normally run through a station every 5-8 minutes, so you can only imagine how many folks had piled into the train by then. About 10 minutes later, our train finally closed it’s doors and then proceeded Southbound, very slowly, I might add. I guess so that if we did go through any fire, we would suffer even more, especially at that speed.
We finally made it to the Five Points station. What a relief – finally - free, free at last! It was so hot, and people were so packed in that train you couldn’t move. My workmate and I practically ran off the train, up the escalator and across Peachtree Street, to where our bus would pick us up. Air, fresh air, it was delightful. And cool, finally, it was cool. Our bus arrived in just a few minutes – we were lucky we caught one so quickly. We promptly boarded and headed to a seat. I noticed even before we sat down, that it was pretty hot in there. I asked another rider and, sure enough, the air conditioning was broke. But, thank God, buses usually have escape hatches on the top which can be opened, much like a sunroof. They were open and provided some relief, especially if the bus was moving pretty fast.
Unfortunately for us though, there were two wrecks on I-20, both of which had traffic backed up forever or nearly so. We sat and creeped, sat and creeped but finally made it to the bus depot. After the day was all said and done, I finally arrived home around 6:30 p.m. I left work at 3:45 p.m.
Today, I decided to drive myself!
Just a few observations and experiences from the week – the weekend just has to be better!
In spite of the cold, snowy start, the week really didn’t seem to get any better. Well, not until today with the temperatures soaring into the high 60’s and beyond. There will be many folks playing hooky this afternoon, I’m sure of it. I, myself, am leaving shortly to go run some errands and then head home to start cooking for our wine tasting benefit tomorrow evening. We also have a Meet and Greet in the morning at Pooch Porch Café in Alpharetta. Busy, busy, busy!
But I should share with everyone some of my mass commuting experiences of the week. It began on Monday morning. I was not physically present for this one, however, a full blown description of the event was provided to me by my workmates. I happened to have been on the train directly behind the one they were riding, thank God, so I did not witness this. I would have died laughing I think, and probably would have been shot on the spot.
Nonetheless, it was a very frigid morning with the temps barely breaking 20 degrees. This is, of course, about 6:15 a.m. I don’t think the sun was even up at that point. So what happened on the train, you ask? Well, my workmates were sitting in the train when a fellow rider got up from his seat and promptly walked to the end of the train car. You can walk from train car to train car by opening the doors (just like in the movies), however, this is suppose to be for emergencies only. I guess this must have been an emergency, at least for this man or at least in his own mind. He stepped out of the train car, turned to his right and then put his head down, never venturing to cross over to the next train car. He then stood there for a minute and then shook himself a bit. He fumbled around a bit, and then walked back to his seat. Yes, you guessed it, he was relieving himself. In the frigid weather, no doubt, while the train is moving about 50 mph. I’m surprised he has a weenie left after that display. Again, I would have died laughing and probably would have been shot for doing so.
Wednesday morning we were leaving our train station in our shuttle van, heading to work. Walking across the parking lot was a black man on the arm of a white, red-haired woman. None of this was odd, but the fact that they were both blind is what struck me. Yes, they both had walking sticks so it was apparent they were blind. They quickly crossed the parking lot, heading straight for the turnstiles to enter the train station. Once at the turnstiles, they found their MARTA cards which gained them entrance into the station. They walked straight across to another bank of turnstiles which led to several MARTA buses waiting to take passengers to different areas on their routes. They passed through those turnstiles and then climbed onto one of the waiting buses. I just sat there watching this entire thing with awe and wonderment. It struck me as so, because those of us who are sighted have such a difficult time with the MARTA system (sometimes, well, yes maybe a lot of the time), so that it is totally awesome that folks who are challenged are able to navigate through the system and safely get from point A to point B. I’ve seen many blind folks in the stations during the last year and every time it moves me more than the last.
Then yesterday on the train from Brookhaven to Five Points, the train stalled at the Lindbergh station, for what appeared to be, no apparent reason. We sat there for about 20 minutes and then were asked to leave our train and wait on the platform for the next train waiting to approach the station, which we did. Then a train on the Northbound track approached going Southbound. A bunch of folks got off that train and came over to our train. We then sat there for another 35 minutes or so, with the doors open, and people milling about here and there. Another train came on the Northbound track, going Southbound. We thought it was there to pick us up so we all disembarked and went over to that train. On the train signs, it said it was headed to the Airport which would have been the direction we were going. Once on the train, the conductor announced that no, it was headed back Northbound to the Chamblee station, basically where we had started from. That was definitely not the direction we needed to go so we quickly disembarked, running back to our original train which was still sitting there.
Apparently at the very next station there had been a fire on the tracks, actually on the Southbound side which is why we were detained for so long, although the word on the streets at the time was that there was a fire in the tunnel. Neither situation was good for us as no trains were going Southbound or Northbound, between the Arts Center station and the Lindbergh Station and we had to get past the Arts Center station to get to Five Points to catch our bus.
Our original, now empty, train was directed to go ahead of us. We figure it was the “sacrificial train”. If it made it through the tunnel, then they would send in our train, which was now full of people. We had been sitting there for some time and these trains normally run through a station every 5-8 minutes, so you can only imagine how many folks had piled into the train by then. About 10 minutes later, our train finally closed it’s doors and then proceeded Southbound, very slowly, I might add. I guess so that if we did go through any fire, we would suffer even more, especially at that speed.
We finally made it to the Five Points station. What a relief – finally - free, free at last! It was so hot, and people were so packed in that train you couldn’t move. My workmate and I practically ran off the train, up the escalator and across Peachtree Street, to where our bus would pick us up. Air, fresh air, it was delightful. And cool, finally, it was cool. Our bus arrived in just a few minutes – we were lucky we caught one so quickly. We promptly boarded and headed to a seat. I noticed even before we sat down, that it was pretty hot in there. I asked another rider and, sure enough, the air conditioning was broke. But, thank God, buses usually have escape hatches on the top which can be opened, much like a sunroof. They were open and provided some relief, especially if the bus was moving pretty fast.
Unfortunately for us though, there were two wrecks on I-20, both of which had traffic backed up forever or nearly so. We sat and creeped, sat and creeped but finally made it to the bus depot. After the day was all said and done, I finally arrived home around 6:30 p.m. I left work at 3:45 p.m.
Today, I decided to drive myself!
Just a few observations and experiences from the week – the weekend just has to be better!
Sunday, March 01, 2009
Snow White
The deep South was transformed into a winter wonderland today, thanks to Mother Nature. It started snowing here in Douglasville (west of Atlanta) about 11 a.m. and didn't stop until about 4 p.m. The first few hours we were graced with beautiful huge snowflakes. It really was quite a sight. I think it must have snowed about three inches or so.The girls, of course, were scared to go out when it was really snowing hard. They just stood under the protection of the roof of the patio looking out at the wint
er wonderland as if it were going to bite them if they stepped on it. Same as last time! After the snowfall ended, they did decide to romp around a bit in the backyard. "A bit" is the key there. They aren't dummies as they knew it was cold, wet, and frozen tundra so they did limit their exposure and just ran out, did their business, and then ran back in - all as quickly as possible!!I wish they would enjoy playing in it like those Northern Greyhounds as I think they would really enjoy it. I see such beautiful photos and videos of those Greyhounds romping in the snow and they look like they are having so much fun!
Not my sweet Southern Belles. Nope, not mine. They would rather be lounging in the backyard sunning like lizards than running through snow. I guess they truly are Southern Belles. I really don't blame them as I'd rather be doing the same thing!
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Vote for Sugar
Monday, February 23, 2009
Today is the Day
This morning when I was getting dressed for work, I decided to try to put my foot into a normal dress pump. Believe it or not, it went in just fine. I was so excited!! A week ago this wasn't the case. It continues to amaze me how the healing changes so much from week to week. So, yes, I decided to wear my dress pumps to work today instead of those "old lady" shoes I was wearing. The foot is doing fine, thus far, with minimal swelling although I imagine I'll have the ice pack on it tonight.
I definitely won't be running to catch any buses today but that's okay, I'm enjoying looking normal again for a change. It's been a very long two months!!
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
It was a dark and stormy night . . .
And you know it's really bad outside when you see this . . .
You know all is well with the world when you see this . . . either that or the Melatonin is really working! :)
American Idol
Well, not exactly but she sure is my idol! And who do I speak of? Why, Martha Stewart, of course! Yes, as a fellow "foodie" she is #1 on my list of fav's . . . the top tamale, if you will! I've followed her career with all the ups and downs for many, many years now.Yesterday I had the extraordinary opportunity to meet Martha in person (yes, we are on a first name basis). She was in Atlanta at the Georgia Aquarium doing a book signing of her Martha Stewart's Cookies recipe book and the Martha Stewart's
Cooking School book. The deal was you had to purchase one or the other from the Georgia Aquarium website. The purchase included a ticket to the book signing which was to start at 12:30 p.m. I chose the Martha Stewart's Cookies recipe book and I am glad I did. It is full of fabulous cookie recipes. I can't wait to start trying some of them on my workmates!Back to the book signing. My friend Michelle and I arrived at the aquarium around noon (yes, we both took off work for this). As I said, the book signing was scheduled to start at 12:30 p.m., however, it really didn't start until closer to 1:15 p.m. or so because Martha was busy doing TV spots, interviews, and greeting contest winners. But she finally did begin the book signing and the line started moving - slowly, very slowly.
While standing in line, we chatted with others around us, chatted about Second Chance Greyhounds, and we also reminisced about the day we drove to Birmingham to watch Southern Living's Cook-Off which was hosted by none other than . . . Tyler Florence. Yes, the hottie chef from Food Network's Food 911 and Tyler's Ultimate. That is where I obtained an autograph from Tyler
on my Tyler Florence's Real Kitchen cookbook. Yep, I did, all thanks to Michelle (yes, the same Michelle who was at Martha Stwart's signing with me). You see, the Tyler gig wasn't really a book signing but I took mine anyway because you just never know, you know? Anyway, after the show was over, Tyler was milling about on stage. Michelle got his attention and asked him if he would sign my book. He said sure, he would, so he stepped away to get a Sharpie at which time he came back and signed my book for me. I was thrilled, to say the least. A few years after that I met him again at a real book signing for his other cookbook, Eat this Book, so I have both of mine autographed.A few years later, my friend Belinda and I were in New York and we went to eat dinner at Mesa Grill. You would never guess who was in there. Yep, Bobby Flay himself, another hottie chef from Food Network who owns the chain of Mesa Grill restaurants. Belinda was able to get him to come over to our table. We chatted a bit, he kissed our hands and then he was off. WOW!! Again, I was thrilled!
Back to Martha - I think we stood in line for about three hours but we finally did make it to the front. By then, my feet felt like bloody stumps but I didn't care. I was about to meet Martha, in the flesh!
It was my turn to approach her table. I was a nervous wreck as you can well imagine. I handed her my book (hoping she wouldn't notice my not so fresh manicure) and said to her, "hi, it is so nice to meet you." At which time she replied, "nice to meet you, too." Then I stupidly said, "I bet your hand is about to fall off" and she replied "we'll see". Afterwards, I laughed at myself and at her response . . . "we'll see". Now, what the heck does that mean? Did she really expect it to fall off? Did it feel as if it were falling off at that time and moment? Who knows. By then she had probably signed 300 or more books so I imagine it was hurting quite a bit!Anyway, Michelle was next in line. She handed Martha her two books and one of Martha's handlers told her, "there are only a hundred more people" or something to that effect. She looked up at Michelle and said "what they really mean is there are 300 more". Too funny. I imagine she was exhausted by then but she was a good sport about it.
We left there and hobbled down the street (well, I was hobbling with my bum foot I had squeezed into a boot so I would look half-way "normal" for Martha) to McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurant to grab a very late lunch. We enjoyed our lunch along with cocktails to celebrate "Martha Stewart Day" as I had dubbed it. Michelle and I both commented about how fantastic she looked. Absolutely flawless and so young. I wonder what her secret is! :)
We finally left downtown and headed home. The fun was over and it was back to reality. I think I walked into my house at 5:30 p.m. What a day it was, for sure! But definitely well worth it. As you can imagine, getting Martha's signature and meeting her was quite a thrill for this foodie. Next on my list is Wolfgang Puck and, of course, Emeril and I wouldn't mind meeting Paula Deen and Alton Brown as well. All in good time, I say, all in good time.
Monday, February 09, 2009
Free . . . Free at Last!!
I went to the foot doctor today for my last visit, at least the last one for four months. They retook the x-rays and all seems to be on target. The bone in the little toe has begun growing over the implanted wire which is what he was waiting on. So, since all is well, he told me I am free of the boot!! Whoo hoo!
My first stop after the doctor visit was to the shoe store. I had to find a shoe my foot would fit in as I still have several months left to deal with the swelling. Of the shoes I have, it only fits in my tennis shoes and my Timberland boots, neither of which are suitable for the workplace and neither of which would compliment my skirts and dresses. So, to the shoe store I went. I did find a nice pair of black leather mules which will get me through this convalescing period. I imagine I will probably get some wear out of them even after that is over. So, I'm set for work tomorrow AND wearing a normal shoe - being a normal person. I cannot wait!
Oh, before I left the doctor's office, his nurse came in to "fit" me with a compression sock. Actually, it's more like Spanx for the foot. It tucks the excess swelling and keeps the foot compressed, more slim and trim, if you will. Yes, just like Spanx. Who knew they made it for the foot as well? What's next, Spanx for the arm, I ask? Anyway, it does make it feel better, that's for sure, so I suppose I'll endure it and wear it as I've been instructed to do.
I've got a few more months before all is back to normal but for now I am just so happy to be able to wear normal shoes! Baby steps, you know?
My first stop after the doctor visit was to the shoe store. I had to find a shoe my foot would fit in as I still have several months left to deal with the swelling. Of the shoes I have, it only fits in my tennis shoes and my Timberland boots, neither of which are suitable for the workplace and neither of which would compliment my skirts and dresses. So, to the shoe store I went. I did find a nice pair of black leather mules which will get me through this convalescing period. I imagine I will probably get some wear out of them even after that is over. So, I'm set for work tomorrow AND wearing a normal shoe - being a normal person. I cannot wait!
Oh, before I left the doctor's office, his nurse came in to "fit" me with a compression sock. Actually, it's more like Spanx for the foot. It tucks the excess swelling and keeps the foot compressed, more slim and trim, if you will. Yes, just like Spanx. Who knew they made it for the foot as well? What's next, Spanx for the arm, I ask? Anyway, it does make it feel better, that's for sure, so I suppose I'll endure it and wear it as I've been instructed to do.
I've got a few more months before all is back to normal but for now I am just so happy to be able to wear normal shoes! Baby steps, you know?
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
It Continues . . .
to baffle me why adults can't act like adults. Okay, that's all I'm going to say about that.
On a brighter note, we've (Second Chance Greyhounds) launched our first fundraising campaign - a beautiful pencil drawing of a Greyhound. The prints are 11" x 14" and are numbered and signed by the artist, Kimberly Walker Morris, however we do have a limited supply.
I can't think of a better Valentine's gift! Order yours today!
On a brighter note, we've (Second Chance Greyhounds) launched our first fundraising campaign - a beautiful pencil drawing of a Greyhound. The prints are 11" x 14" and are numbered and signed by the artist, Kimberly Walker Morris, however we do have a limited supply.
I can't think of a better Valentine's gift! Order yours today!
Sunday, February 01, 2009
Super Sunday
Well, it's Super Sunday in many ways. Today is Super Bowl Sunday for one. I have a few friends coming over with their Greyhounds. It should be a full house with six humans and nine Greyhounds. Not to worry, we are always outnumbered. We just learn how to deal!
The other reason it's Super Sunday is that today we launched the website of our new Greyhound Adoption group, Second Chance Greyhounds. We are very excited about starting this program from the ground up. It's quite a bit of work but we are determined to make a go of it. We've made great strides in the three weeks we've been working on this and hope to make many more great strides in the future. Check out our website at http://www.secondchancegreyhounds.org/.
The other reason it's Super Sunday is that today we launched the website of our new Greyhound Adoption group, Second Chance Greyhounds. We are very excited about starting this program from the ground up. It's quite a bit of work but we are determined to make a go of it. We've made great strides in the three weeks we've been working on this and hope to make many more great strides in the future. Check out our website at http://www.secondchancegreyhounds.org/.
Monday, January 26, 2009
What a Monday!!
Busy, busy Monday as I'm sure most folks experience. This afternoon I had another appointment with Dr. McGlamry today for a check of the ole foot. Last visit he said at this next one, "we would see about getting you into a shoe".
Of course, they did another X-ray and compared it to the first one taken post-op. Unfortunately, the wire in the little toe has moved, which means the bone has moved. Remember, the wire is holding that darn little toe together.
So, this means another two weeks with the surgical boot. I just stared at him at disbelief. I was so excited about getting out of that damn boot. My first comment was, "You really know how to disappoint a lady, don't you?". His response, "I do it everyday!". I then asked him, "are you sure about this"? And, of course, he said "yes, I am sure" and then he proceeded to explain to me that the bone needs to regrow and it needs to calicify around the wire, yatta, yatta, yatta.
I almost balled in front of him, I was so disappointed. But as he said, "you surely don't want to go through this again anytime soon, now do you?" My response, "No, I'd rather have a root canal".
Then I explained to him that I had planned a Super Bowl/Burn the Boot party for Sunday and the invitations were already mailed. Of course, he laughed and said perhaps I could do that in a few weeks. So, if you received an invite - the party is OFF!!
I will still be "booted" at least until the 9th of February. I hope and pray at that point that he will tell me I can then progress to a shoe. Hope and pray is what I said (let's all do it together now, shall we?).
And to top off the Monday, I come home to gather a recipe rather quickly, let the girls out to potty, and then run to the grocery store. I left the girls uncrated thinking they would be okay for this very short period of time. But alas, I was wrong. I came home to find the cap to one of my camera lenses in the middle of one of the dog beds. I know who the culprit is as it usually is Ms. Sugar who has a fetish for hard plastic (remember her eating my Clinique compact?). This is a known fact. The thing I ponder is how in the hell did she get the thing off the lens? Unfortunately I hadn't locked the cover to the camera case, but merely closed it, thinking "outta sight outta mind". NOT . . . well at least not with these Greyhounds. The lens had dog slobber on it but appeared to be otherwise unscathed. Again, I beg to ask, how in the hell did she get the cap off the lens?
On another note and to top off the day, I formally resigned from SEGA today (Events, Fundraising, cat testing, photos, etc.) to pursue other Greyhound opportunities, of which I'm sure you will hear about soon enough. That's all I'm going to say at this point but suffice it to say, it was the hardest thing I've done since I quit smoking. Mr. Parker is not pleased with me - not in the least bit but I feel certain they will survive and be stronger for it. I am certainly not the only volunteer in the world or the best volunteer and I'm sure they will find someone who will do an outstanding job.
I can hope and pray.
Of course, they did another X-ray and compared it to the first one taken post-op. Unfortunately, the wire in the little toe has moved, which means the bone has moved. Remember, the wire is holding that darn little toe together.
So, this means another two weeks with the surgical boot. I just stared at him at disbelief. I was so excited about getting out of that damn boot. My first comment was, "You really know how to disappoint a lady, don't you?". His response, "I do it everyday!". I then asked him, "are you sure about this"? And, of course, he said "yes, I am sure" and then he proceeded to explain to me that the bone needs to regrow and it needs to calicify around the wire, yatta, yatta, yatta.
I almost balled in front of him, I was so disappointed. But as he said, "you surely don't want to go through this again anytime soon, now do you?" My response, "No, I'd rather have a root canal".
Then I explained to him that I had planned a Super Bowl/Burn the Boot party for Sunday and the invitations were already mailed. Of course, he laughed and said perhaps I could do that in a few weeks. So, if you received an invite - the party is OFF!!
I will still be "booted" at least until the 9th of February. I hope and pray at that point that he will tell me I can then progress to a shoe. Hope and pray is what I said (let's all do it together now, shall we?).
And to top off the Monday, I come home to gather a recipe rather quickly, let the girls out to potty, and then run to the grocery store. I left the girls uncrated thinking they would be okay for this very short period of time. But alas, I was wrong. I came home to find the cap to one of my camera lenses in the middle of one of the dog beds. I know who the culprit is as it usually is Ms. Sugar who has a fetish for hard plastic (remember her eating my Clinique compact?). This is a known fact. The thing I ponder is how in the hell did she get the thing off the lens? Unfortunately I hadn't locked the cover to the camera case, but merely closed it, thinking "outta sight outta mind". NOT . . . well at least not with these Greyhounds. The lens had dog slobber on it but appeared to be otherwise unscathed. Again, I beg to ask, how in the hell did she get the cap off the lens?
On another note and to top off the day, I formally resigned from SEGA today (Events, Fundraising, cat testing, photos, etc.) to pursue other Greyhound opportunities, of which I'm sure you will hear about soon enough. That's all I'm going to say at this point but suffice it to say, it was the hardest thing I've done since I quit smoking. Mr. Parker is not pleased with me - not in the least bit but I feel certain they will survive and be stronger for it. I am certainly not the only volunteer in the world or the best volunteer and I'm sure they will find someone who will do an outstanding job.
I can hope and pray.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Motion
Or I should say, range of motion or better yet, lack thereof. Yes, in my previous post about the last foot doctor visit, I failed to mention that I am to do self physical therapy on my foot. Actually only with my big toe.
Apparently when he went in there he found alot of arthritis which had begun to settle in which may have something to do with all the damaged cartilage he found as well. So, to help get things moving again, I was instructed to do a set of range of motion exercises which include bending the toe up and then backward until tears come to my eyes. That is basically what he said . . . "bend it until it REALLY hurts" and, unfortunately, it doesn't want to bend so it REALLY does hurt! Also, human nature tends to get in the way of this activity because it is common to NOT want to hurt oneself. But I digress.
I am trying to be a good post-op patient and do my exercises most every hour which is especially easy to do here at work because I can sit at my desk and do this and no one is the wiser! :) However, it continues to hurt like hell. I guess the ole saying, "no pain - no gain" is especially true in this case.
Toe exercises - who would have thunk it? Vision that one, if you will! :) Off to do my toe crunches!
Apparently when he went in there he found alot of arthritis which had begun to settle in which may have something to do with all the damaged cartilage he found as well. So, to help get things moving again, I was instructed to do a set of range of motion exercises which include bending the toe up and then backward until tears come to my eyes. That is basically what he said . . . "bend it until it REALLY hurts" and, unfortunately, it doesn't want to bend so it REALLY does hurt! Also, human nature tends to get in the way of this activity because it is common to NOT want to hurt oneself. But I digress.
I am trying to be a good post-op patient and do my exercises most every hour which is especially easy to do here at work because I can sit at my desk and do this and no one is the wiser! :) However, it continues to hurt like hell. I guess the ole saying, "no pain - no gain" is especially true in this case.
Toe exercises - who would have thunk it? Vision that one, if you will! :) Off to do my toe crunches!
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Brrrr!!
Well, this morning was the coldest morning, thus far, that I've had to endure while doing public transportation. It wasn't all that bad, actually, as I'm in a warm bus, a warm train, or a warm shuttle van for probably at least 95% of the time! So, I can't complain. Tomorrow, though, is forecasted to be much, much colder. See the forecast below from Accuweather.
Thursday, Jan 15
High: 40 °F RealFeel®: 29 °F
Sunny most of the day, breezy and colder
Thursday Night, Jan 15
Low: 12 °F RealFeel®: 2 °F
Mainly clear and frigid
I believe their terminology "frigid" pretty much sums it up. It is frigid, for sure. My quest tonight, however, is to locate a hat in my closet that won't scrunch my hair. Yes, I'm gonna be vain even though I don't want to freeze to death!! I do believe I have a black felt hat of some sort that will certainly suffice.
Unfortunately the cold snap is going to be with us throughout the weekend. And that means we will be enduring some cold temps on Saturday during our annual field trip to the Birmingham Race Course. We take a group over every year about this time to tour the kennels and watch some races. This year we've got 90 folks going! Yep, it's the largest group in the history of SEGA. I hope everyone dresses warmly!!
Oh, I have to add that thanks to my Zune, I am back to having a stress free commute. Last night I loaded my new Lady Antebellum CD and listened to it on the way to work this morning. They write their own songs and music! What a talented trio they are. Truly talented!
There is also something very "warming" about listening to Jimmy Buffet when it's 20 degrees outside. It does put your mind in that tropical mode, you know? Beaches, margaritas, sun tan lotion, salt water - ah, just thinking of all that warms me up! :) Hey, don't laugh. Even if it actually doesn't warm me up, it certainly does put a smile on my face! Love that Jimmy Buffet!!
BTW the Zune is working fabulously!! Life couldn't be better!
Thursday, Jan 15
High: 40 °F RealFeel®: 29 °F
Sunny most of the day, breezy and colder
Thursday Night, Jan 15
Low: 12 °F RealFeel®: 2 °F
Mainly clear and frigid
I believe their terminology "frigid" pretty much sums it up. It is frigid, for sure. My quest tonight, however, is to locate a hat in my closet that won't scrunch my hair. Yes, I'm gonna be vain even though I don't want to freeze to death!! I do believe I have a black felt hat of some sort that will certainly suffice.
Unfortunately the cold snap is going to be with us throughout the weekend. And that means we will be enduring some cold temps on Saturday during our annual field trip to the Birmingham Race Course. We take a group over every year about this time to tour the kennels and watch some races. This year we've got 90 folks going! Yep, it's the largest group in the history of SEGA. I hope everyone dresses warmly!!
Oh, I have to add that thanks to my Zune, I am back to having a stress free commute. Last night I loaded my new Lady Antebellum CD and listened to it on the way to work this morning. They write their own songs and music! What a talented trio they are. Truly talented!
There is also something very "warming" about listening to Jimmy Buffet when it's 20 degrees outside. It does put your mind in that tropical mode, you know? Beaches, margaritas, sun tan lotion, salt water - ah, just thinking of all that warms me up! :) Hey, don't laugh. Even if it actually doesn't warm me up, it certainly does put a smile on my face! Love that Jimmy Buffet!!
BTW the Zune is working fabulously!! Life couldn't be better!
Monday, January 12, 2009
The Progression of Frankenfoot
Well, as you can see I finally am bandage free!! Yeppie! I immediately went home after my doctor appointment yesterday and took my first full shower since December 26th. It was marvelous darling, simply marvelous! I could have stood there all night!!I am still in the walking boot for at least two more weeks though. My next appointment is January 26th at which time the good looking doctor tells me, "we will see about getting you back into a shoe at that point". He mentioned taking x-rays again to see how the little toe is doing. You see, there is a wire embedded in the darn thing that is really holding it together. He wants to see how it is mending after two more weeks. I fear the wrath of Dr. McGlamry if I even attempt to wear a normal shoe because I know he will be able to see that wear and tear from the x-ray.
But it does look good, doesn't it? There is some peeling going on and there are still some stitches there, most notably on the ends of both incisions. The darkness you see along the incision line is the ink from the pen he used to draw where he would make the incision. It will wear off in time - all in good time. And there is some swelling still. The nurse told me to expect that as it will continue for several more weeks. I am to ice it down at night if I feel the need to do so. Interesting, when I awoke this morning, it damn near looked normal again!! But I'm sure it will be swollen when I get home again this evening.
So, on tap tonight is a pedicure. A home pedicure. I'm a bit apprehensive about going to a nail salon at this point, not until I am completely healed. If I were to try that, I imagine with my luck I would develop a God awful infection that would then require a foot amputation. After all this, it just ain't worth it!
The Dehydrating Weekend
My friend Heather pulled out the dehydrator she'd had for years and dehydrated treats for her Greyhounds . . . liver to be exact. Of course, I thought this a fabulous idea so I immediately went online and purchased my own dehydrator. It arrived and I finally unpacked it and went shopping for "things" to dehydrate.My first venture was apples. My girls love apples! I started these Friday evening. They turned out yummy! I think this is the first homemade treat (besides the marshmallows) that works for both canines and humans!
Then I decided to try bananas. Below is a before picture and an after picture. The girls absolutely love the bananas! Yum, yum! They love these new treats. They are very healthy for them (and me) . . . so who can refuse?
Friday, January 09, 2009
Glory Be The Lord!!!
Yes, the impossible has happened. For those who have been following on Twitter, I have been dealing with my commute (and everything else) on public transportation WITHOUT my Zune. If these people only knew what torture it has been riding the bus and train, having to listen to everything and everyone around me, day in and day out - it was horrible!
You see, before the holidays, I attempted to download and install a mandatory firmware update, just as I was updating my playlist with my favorite holiday tunes. Unfortunately the firmware update corrupted the unit and there was no fixing it on my end as I diligently tried for several days. Thank goodness it was still under warranty.
I sent it in for repair, I believe sometime around the week of my birthday which was December 15th. I gave it a few travel days (via FedEx compliments of Microsoft) and it arrived at it's Repair Center in McAllen, Texas (of all places) on December 22nd. They immediately turned it around and shipped my unit back to me on December 23rd. It arrived in Atlanta on December 31st. Actually it arrived in Kennesaw at the FedEx hub there. Then on the truck for delivery at my home January 2nd. Unfortunately Microsoft required a person to person signature. I found this out when I arrived home that day, at which time I immediately called FedEx to arrange for a redirect to my work address on Monday, January 5th. Well, FedEx came that day to work and still no Zune. I called FedEx again that night to inquire about the redirect. They didn't have it in the system. Again, the next day, no Zune appeared at work. Again, I called FedEx to inquire about the redirect. A male twerp, uh customer service rep, tried to tell me that only Microsoft could issue a redirect and that the unit was probably on it's way back to them but that I had a package from DirectTV (probably a remote, he said) to be delivered that day. "No", I told him, "I don't have DirectTV." He assured me I would be receiving a package from them that day. Of course, he was wrong and no such package from them has arrived as of this writing.
You see, before the holidays, I attempted to download and install a mandatory firmware update, just as I was updating my playlist with my favorite holiday tunes. Unfortunately the firmware update corrupted the unit and there was no fixing it on my end as I diligently tried for several days. Thank goodness it was still under warranty.
I sent it in for repair, I believe sometime around the week of my birthday which was December 15th. I gave it a few travel days (via FedEx compliments of Microsoft) and it arrived at it's Repair Center in McAllen, Texas (of all places) on December 22nd. They immediately turned it around and shipped my unit back to me on December 23rd. It arrived in Atlanta on December 31st. Actually it arrived in Kennesaw at the FedEx hub there. Then on the truck for delivery at my home January 2nd. Unfortunately Microsoft required a person to person signature. I found this out when I arrived home that day, at which time I immediately called FedEx to arrange for a redirect to my work address on Monday, January 5th. Well, FedEx came that day to work and still no Zune. I called FedEx again that night to inquire about the redirect. They didn't have it in the system. Again, the next day, no Zune appeared at work. Again, I called FedEx to inquire about the redirect. A male twerp, uh customer service rep, tried to tell me that only Microsoft could issue a redirect and that the unit was probably on it's way back to them but that I had a package from DirectTV (probably a remote, he said) to be delivered that day. "No", I told him, "I don't have DirectTV." He assured me I would be receiving a package from them that day. Of course, he was wrong and no such package from them has arrived as of this writing.
Nonetheless, this whole time the FedEx delivery guy made three attempts to deliver the Zune to my home. He called my cell phone the first day and didn't leave a message. The second day, I was able to answer and explain to him that I was not home but was at work, therefore, I couldn't sign for the unit. I begged him to leave the Zune on the doorstep and he said he couldn't, that Microsoft required a person to person signature. I don't know why he attempted delivery the third day.
Anyway, it sat in Kennesaw for a few more days and finally made it to the Atlanta hub where it was put on the delivery truck and, indeed, was delivered this very morning. Amazing, I say, just freaking amazing that it took nine days for me to receive it. If not for the extra help and attention provided by "Yvette" at the Kennesaw hub, I seriously doubt this would have happened. Thank you Yvette!
They actually sent a brand new replacement for my corrupted one. Upon opening the box, I immediately plugged it into my laptop at which time it required the firmware update which it did successfully install. Right now, it's loading all my albums, playlists, pictures, and video and is at 90% complete.
Suffice it to say, I will never use FedEx again, not if I can help it. UPS is much more customer friendly, consistent and dependable.
As I sit here marveling at my new Zune that is now almost completely loaded with my music, pictures, and videos, I am confident all is well in the world (big sigh of relief).
Where Is It???
What you ask? I'm searching for my brain, of course. I seem to have misplaced it somewhere and no, the pain meds have not affected the brain, at least not today. I haven't had anything but aspirin for two days now and that seems to be working okay, for now.
Anyhoo, let me explain why I truly think I've lost my mind . . . ESPECIALLY today (as you can imagine, I have this feeling often but DEFINITELY today). What happened, you ask? Well, this morning I had loaded the car with the essentials for my hour+ drive to work. Just to break the mundaneness of commuting on the bus and train, I usually drive on Friday, plus it gives me a chance to run a few errands!
I was about halfway to my destination when all of a sudden I realized and then looked down to confirm and, yes it was true, I had left home without my left shoe!!! I had put my walking boot in the car and everything else I needed, walked back into the house in my "stocking feet" to set the alarm and then I jumped into the SUV, opened the garage door, and was on my way. I had decided to drive today without my boot since yesterday (had to drive then because of a dentist appointment), I narrowly missed causing a rear-end wreck because the boot was stuck on the gas pedal and the brake pedal. Lesson learned - do not drive with God awful boot on foot.
So, of course, I had to turn around and go back home to retrieve my shoe. What is normally an hour+ commute turned into 2+ hours. UGH - I hate it!! As much as this was a pain in the "patooty", I just thank God I wasn't on the bus as there is no turning back on that thing. Can you imagine how that would have ended?
Anyway, happy Friday everyone - it's got to get better from here, don't you think?
Anyhoo, let me explain why I truly think I've lost my mind . . . ESPECIALLY today (as you can imagine, I have this feeling often but DEFINITELY today). What happened, you ask? Well, this morning I had loaded the car with the essentials for my hour+ drive to work. Just to break the mundaneness of commuting on the bus and train, I usually drive on Friday, plus it gives me a chance to run a few errands!
I was about halfway to my destination when all of a sudden I realized and then looked down to confirm and, yes it was true, I had left home without my left shoe!!! I had put my walking boot in the car and everything else I needed, walked back into the house in my "stocking feet" to set the alarm and then I jumped into the SUV, opened the garage door, and was on my way. I had decided to drive today without my boot since yesterday (had to drive then because of a dentist appointment), I narrowly missed causing a rear-end wreck because the boot was stuck on the gas pedal and the brake pedal. Lesson learned - do not drive with God awful boot on foot.
So, of course, I had to turn around and go back home to retrieve my shoe. What is normally an hour+ commute turned into 2+ hours. UGH - I hate it!! As much as this was a pain in the "patooty", I just thank God I wasn't on the bus as there is no turning back on that thing. Can you imagine how that would have ended?
Anyway, happy Friday everyone - it's got to get better from here, don't you think?
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
The Drugs
I just have to post this as it sort of astonished me a bit. As you know, I have been taking Percocet for the pain from the foot surgery which is diminishing daily, thank goodness. Yesterday I didn't take anything but aspirin and today I've had some aspirin, as well.But, over the weekend I needed something and didn't want to take the Percocet (it makes me so so sleepy) so I looked at the bottle of pain pills I had left over from the finger surgery I had, oh what was it, like four months ago or something like that? I didn't take them all and had just kept the bottle for whatever reason. So, I looked at it and looked at the name on the bottle. It is a generic name so I didn't recognize it. I looked it up on the Internet and lo and behold, I have Vicadin. I guess that is a lesson in and unto itself - always look up your medications BEFORE you take them. There is nothing wrong with Vicadin, mind you, but it would have been nice to know that that is what it was before I took any! Who knew? Of course Vicadin is a Schedule III narcotic. According to Wikipedia, "Schedule III drugs are classified by the U.S. government as potentially causing moderate or low physical dependence or a high psychological dependence if abused. There is a high inclination for abuse of this drug."
And then we have the Percocet. Wikipedia states, "Oxycodone is a Schedule II controlled substance, i.e. it must be given by written prescription which cannot have refills, nor can it be called in to a pharmacy by a physician."
The astonishing part to me is that these doctors so freely dispense these type of painkillers but I honestly don't know if there are better alternatives. I would assume if there were, then they would have prescribed that instead, knowing the dependency factor of Vicadin and Percocet.
Don't get me wrong, I am very grateful to have had the pain relief. (And yes, they are totally out of reach of the Greyhounds or anyone else for that matter!)
Actually, it seems I'm on a roll here so I'm contemplating what type of surgery I can schedule next. Wonder what that doc would prescribe? Just kidding!!!! I'm done!
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