Progress in the Garden

The garden is flourishing as you can see. The corn sustained some damage in a recent storm but I think it'll survive. I staked some of the stalks up this morning so am hopeful the corn on those stalks will mature. I'm having some squash tonight with my grilled Talapia. Umm, umm. You can't beat that! The sweet potatoes are coming along and I should have some zucchini soon. The bell peppers are coming in and the Serrano peppers, too. I think I'll have enough Jalapeno peppers this week to make some stuffed Jalapeno's for my work mates. The green beans and cucumbers are never ending. I can't eat enough cucumbers and green beans to keep those from falling off the vines.

And speaking of vines, isn't that a most delightful watermelon you see there? There are two more on the vines and many more blossoms. I expect to have quite a few to eat shortly. They look scrumptious and I can't wait to split one open!

Why Is It That . . .

Strangers insist on talking to you when you have earbuds in your ears on the bus/train/shuttle and you are obviously listening to something? This happens to me daily on the commute to and from work and for the life of me, I cannot understand. Do they think I have earbuds in my ears because "it looks cool"? Or do they think the earbuds in my ears are "a new fashion accessory"? Or perhaps they think I'm with the FBI and I'm "tapping" in on someone. I don't know but what I do know is it's quite disturbing to get disturbed in the middle of a wonderful song by the Beatles or Keith Urban or Frank Sinatra or Jimmy Buffet or the Goo Goo Dolls or Kenny Chesney or anyone for that matter (the list is endless, as you can see).

Yes, I am usually listening to some music or a downloaded podcast or something on my most delightful Zune. It's quite relaxing, I must say, and definitely beats listening to everything else around me! I'm obviously just not that social when it comes to sitting in a contained moving object with a bunch of folks I don't know! Oh well, I try but honestly, my only goal on the bus/train/shuttle is to get from one point to another - safely and without error. I am usually successful!

Frakenfinger Unveiled

The last 10 days were pretty long ones and I had been counting the days down to Tuesday, the day the stitches would be removed. As I sat there waiting in the doctor's office, I wondered how the ole finger would look and feel afterwards. It was as I thought - a most wonderful feeling. The stitches were pretty tight and had been pulling the skin so removing them was almost liberating, if you will, and was such a great feeling. I'm glad my finger can now get back to normal. I have it wrapped with some thin vet wrap, just to help keep the swelling down a bit and to protect it, at least for a few more days. Dr. Joseph suggested that I "baby" it for the next few days. Now, how in the heck do you "baby" a finger that you need to use?

Anyway, as Dr. Joseph bid me farewell after the office visit, I told him that I had termed my finger "Frankenfinger", thanks to my friend Heather who called it that herself. It's got so many scars on it so that it truly is a Frankenfinger. Unfortunately, Dr. Joseph didn't see the humor in my comment. Those darn specialists are so dry, aren't they? But they do excel at their specialty, thank goodness!

Anyway, here is an excerpt from the Operative Report that the good Doctor gave me before I left his office.

"Patient taken to the operating room and given 1 gm Ancef IV. General anesthesia was induced without complications. Standard prep and drape. Extremity was exsanguinated. Tourniquet was inflated to 250 mmHg.

Using 3.5-loupe magnification, previously marked mass about the lateral aspect of the left ring finger was identified and approached through a 3-cm longitudinal incision incorporating the previous incision. A very ill-defined vascular lesion was identified. This was excised. A large part of the lesion was underneath the middle phalanx. This was unroofed. The mass was excised. The area was agressively curetted down to bleeding bone. All involved tissue was removed. Dense scar tissue was removed. Some excess skin and scar tissue was removed converting the incision to more of an elliptical incision. The defect underneath the middle phalanx was again curetted, irrigated, electrocauterized and packed with a small amount of Gelfoam soaked in 0.5% plain Marcaine. The area all around the dissection was electrocauterized with the hopes of further preventing recurrence of the vascular tumor.

The skin incision was then meticulously closed with interrupted 5-0 nylon. Proximal block with 0.5% plain Marcaine was performed. A sterile compressive dressing and dorsal split were applied. Tourniquet was released.

The patient tolerated the procedure well and was transferred to the recovery room in stable condition."

I don't know or understand alot of the medical jargon, but I do believe it sounds like my finger received an overhaul. And who's finger doesn't need one of those?

Interesting thing about the Marcaine, (I looked it up) which is a local anesthetic. It is often used in dental procedures and obstetrics. One of the doseages I received (0.5%) is commonly used for epidurals. And my finger received two of those! This might explain why it was numb for three days solid. The doctor told Kim (who was in the waiting room waiting to take me home) that he "shot it full of Novocaine" (same thing) and he wasn't kidding.

All in all, I'm so glad it is over. I hope the "thing" that grows inside doesn't reappear anytime soon as I don't want to go through that again, at least not for quite some time!

'Fraidy Cat . . . Er, I Mean Dog!

Poor thing, Lucy is so storm phobic and there isn't anything that makes it better. Alot of Melatonin helps but not completely! A t-shirt helps but not completely. Any suggestions? I feel so bad for her!

The Dark Knight

Last Saturday night, Kim and Guy and myself went to see The Dark Knight. What an incredible movie! Heath Ledger absolutely stole the show as The Joker. It is quite a shame he isn't alive today to reap in the limelight of his performance and, no doubt, pick up his Oscar come Academy Award time. Here is an excerpt from a review by Rito Asilo of the Philippine Daily Inquirer. I couldn't have said it better myself.

But, it’s the magnificent Ledger who almost steals the show from Bale: The gifted actor’s dramatic achievement here is instructive, because his character isn’t even given an in-depth back story—The Joker just pops up from out of nowhere and, along the way, spills revelatory clues of abuse and grave misfortune from his bleak past.

To say the least, Ledger’s Joker is a scary creation far removed from the campy aesthetic of Jack Nicholson’s previous rendering of the character—a powerful performance worthy of an Oscar (something that, we still maintain, he should have won for his moving portrayal in 2005’s “Brokeback Mountain”). Unfortunately, an Oscar win may be a long shot—after all, Peter Finch is still the only actor to have won a posthumous Oscar (for 1976’s “Network”).

This morning on the train coming into work, I could have sworn I saw The Joker myself, in the flesh, minus the makeup. A black man boarded the train at the Peachtree Center station. He was wearing loose bright purple pants, a bright red shirt, pull-on dress alligator skin dress shoes, and a bright green jacket (ie The Masters Tournament) draped across his shoulders. His hair was in braids, held in the air going every which-a-way by a brightly colored scarf wrapped around his head like a headband. And to top off his attire, in the front pocket of the jacket was a rubber toy of some sort, stuffed in upside down so that only his tail was visible (it looked like a rat's tail). And as if that wasn't enough, he was carrying a very used (dirty, actually) stuffed pink pig that is actually a dog toy.

Now, what do you make of that? Much like The Joker, this guy was quite a character!

Frankstein's Bride?

Well, for those who didn't know, I had minor outpatient surgery on my finger last Friday, under general anesthesia nonetheless. It was to remove a cyst from my left ring finger. It is a recurring problem as this is the third time I've had this surgery to remove cysts (one doctor even termed it a "forming thrombus") and then there was one additional procedure in the office to remove a piece of gauze the second surgeon accidentally left in my finger during that surgery. Errgh!! So, four times the poor finger has been cut on. The last is probably the most prominent incision, thus far. I can only imagine how the scar will look but at least the cyst is gone for now and won't cause me anymore pain when I use that hand to grab or lift anything.

The photo above is with the bandages put on post-op. The last thing the nurse said to me was "this will make you sleepy" and the next thing was "how are you feeling?". It was quite strange - I don't recall the last procedure (10 years ago) going quite so smoothly. For one, I could hear the surgeon explaining to a colleague that the tendon in my finger looked like the tendon in a chicken wing. I kid you not. I think the anesthesia then was the "twilight state". Obviously, not the most desirable if the doctor and staff are going to be comparing your tendons to those of a chicken! I much prefer general anesthesia to spare me from the operating room banter!

The picture above is after I removed the bandages. It's Day 5 and they said I could take them off today. I couldn't wait to get home from work to do it! My finger was feeling quite claustrophobic, to say the least. It has now been set free - free at last! The incision is about an inch and a half long and has seven stitches that I can see. Those come out on Tuesday. Yeppie!! And the finger is a bit swollen still and is VERY sore, especially underneath it. It's still a bit numb underneath up toward the tip. I anticipate that will go away with time!

Obviously I can type which is good. I think I would go bonkers if I couldn't do email or any computer work during this healing period. I don't think there will be any rehab or anything like that. I can move the finger just fine and I imagine once it is healed completely, I'll be able to start working on bending it!

In the interim, I hope Frankenstein doesn't want to take me as his bride! (I guess it could be alot worse and I should be thankful I still have my finger, huh?)

How Does Your Garden Grow?

Mine is finally coming along nicely, if I say so myself. I've had great success in the gardening area since I can remember, initially trying my hand at growing radishes when I was just a kid. I think my Mom knew they were practically foolproof and anyone, including a child, could grow them.

It certainly was enough to boost my confidence and instill the desire in me to try growing a multitude of things including yellow squash, corn, head lettuce, Romaine lettuce, carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, bell peppers, jalapeno peppers, serrano peppers, rosemary, dill, cilantro, tomatoes, new potatoes, sweet potatoes, Viladia onions, green onions, okra, watermelon, lima beans, green beans, green peas, cucumbers, bean sprouts, cat nip, and even cotton - yes, I've even grown cotton.

This year my crop consists of sweet peas, serrano peppers, jalapeno peppers, bell peppers, green beans, lima beans, yellow squash, zucchini, corn, sweet potatoes, and watermelon. Here is a picture of one of the watermelon as just a baby. It's about the size of a silver dollar. Isn't it adorable? I think with the fencing I've put around the garden this year, I may see the watermelon grow to maturity. In year's past, I think the rabbits have helped themselves to anything they could get their grubby paws on.

Everyone always says fresh grown produce is the best and I have to agree. There is nothing better than going out to the garden and picking something fresh to add to dinner. That's exactly what I plan to do tonight. Some fresh steamed green beans and a sweet potato will go quite nicely with my grilled filet!

And Just When You Think You've Seen It All . . .

Okay, every day riding the transit system is definitely a new experience. It never ceases to amaze me the number of different people one sees on the daily commute. There are construction workers, businessmen in suits, fast food workers, office workers, college students, homeless people - you name it, they're on the train!

Today though, I saw something that almost had me on the floor laughing so hard. A rather tall gentleman had come down the escalator and was waiting at the platform for the next Northbound train. I was standing right beside him, also waiting for the train, when I noticed he was carrying something under his arm. It was, yes indeed, a hemorroid pillow just like the one pictured above. His was orange though and I swear he looked as if he were about to head down to the shore with his tiny life preserver and "save" someone. Poor man - I felt so bad for him! If that had been me (and thank goodness it isn't) I think I would deflate it, stuff it in my laptop bag and then inflate it when I arrived at work. No one would be the wiser. :) If I see him tomorrow, perhaps I'll suggest that to him (not!).

You definitely see all kinds and all things on the public transit system. I told a friend of mine today - if it weren't so darn entertaining, I just don't know if I could do this day in and day out! But it is incredibly entertaining. And so I continue participating, saving scads of money and lots of gas, and usually walking around with a smile on my face!

Just When You Think You've Heard It All . . .

My friend at work who is also doing the transit thing that I'm doing (even on the same route but different time and bus than me) told me yesterday that his bus was pulled over by a Powder Springs cop who promptly issued a ticket to the driver for speeding! Have you ever heard of such? I just don't think I've ever seen a bus being pulled over - ever! Obviously we laughed hysterically and I can only imagine the passengers on that bus were probably having a hard time holding back the laughter as well. What next, I say?

Unfortunately this is a new driver to that route and on Monday he obviously couldn't remember the route, so he proceeded to drive the bus (full of people, of course) around downtown Atlanta and around and around. And obviously making everyone late to their destinations. My friend was 30 minutes late that day!

That bus driver has definitely had a bad week, poor guy!

Neuton Goes Swimming!

One of the first fashion accessories that my friend Barbie purchased for her new half-breed dog, Neuton, was a life preserver. They do have a cement pond in the back yard so this was mostly for his protection until he learns to swim, more so, than for the fashion aspect of it. Although I am certain he is the only half-breed in the neighborhood who is sporting such a nice accessory.

Above is Neuton enjoying the afternoon sunning on his raft in the cement pond.

Below he is seen sunning on the pool deck. He is definitely striving for that sun tan that will no doubt drive his girlfriends crazy. Isn't he a cutie?

I've been told that once he accomplishes swimming, his next summer activity is to learn to catch the frisbee. Perhaps summer camp is next, who knows?

Speaking of the half breed issue, his human Daddy ordered a doggie DNA test so his heritage can be determined. We are taking bets on what folks think he is. I am uncertain but think he could be a Beagle Whippet mix or a Jack Russell Whippet mix. We'll see! I'll be sure to post the DNA results here when they get them back in a few weeks.

In the meantime, Neuton doesn't really care what breed he is as he knows he is now living the high life! Ah, to be Neuton in the Wentz household!

Rub a Dub Dub, Three Men (Actually 62 Greyhounds) in a Tub!

Yes, I said 62 Grey-hounds, actually 62 beautiful Grey-hounds. My BFF Kim came up with the idea to get a few volunteers together and carpool over to Birmingham Race Course to wash all the Greyhounds in the Southern New England kennel, belonging to Alan Olsen.

Kim scouted and emailed several folks who had adopted Greyhounds that had come to SEGA from this kennel. Most were very willing to commit to the project. In the end, we had 10 volunteers who made the trek over to Birmingham this past Saturday afternoon.

We all met at the Park and Ride off I-20 in Villa Rica. Once the intro-ductions were done, we determined who would ride with whom. After all was said and done, there were three vehicles making the trip over. We arrived in record time (about an hour later) only to find that Alan nor his wife, Linda, were at the kennel. Yikes! We stood there chatting and waiting and soon enough Alan and Linda pulled up in the hauler filled with dogs who had just run in the matinee. After they had pulled all the dogs off the hauler, cleansed their eyes, squirted their feet with Betadine, handed them their "treat" and put them back in their crates in the kennel, we then started organizing the dog wash, preparing the flea shampoo, getting hoses in the right spots, etc.

Then the work commenced! Alan would let 10 or so dogs at a time into the "wash area". Once they were washed, they came to the "rinse area" where they had to sit 10 minutes or more with the flea shampoo on them. After that time, they were rinsed with cool, fresh water. Then it was on to the "drying area" where they were allowed to air dry in the afternoon sun.

The dogs kept coming and coming and everyone continued with the flow of things - washing, waiting, rinsing, drying, moving dogs from one turnout pen to another to get to the right "wash station".

Several times during the afternoon we asked Alan if he had been grabbing dogs from the kennel across the street because it seemed we must have washed 80 or so dogs by then. Each time, he'd tell us "only 15 more".

We took advantage of the cold sodas and cold water Alan had on hand for us to drink as it was pretty hot that afternoon and we were doing this in the afternoon sun, as you can see.

We finally neared the end (for sure this time), and then it was more of a waiting game waiting for them all to dry. They dried pretty quickly and everyone was returned to their respective crates.

Whoo hoo! We were ten very tired and dirty, flea soap smelling folks. A few of us had decided prior to this that we would stay at the track that evening and grab some dinner and watch a few of the night races so we came prepared with a change of clothes. Alan secured us a complimentary sky box which was really nice. We each changed clothes in the kennel bathroom and everyone scrubbed down with Baby Wipes! Nothing like a Baby Wipe bath after an afternoon of washing 62 Greyhounds! Oh, the picture below is that of one of the volunteers, Scott, who obviously bent over one too many times! Hilarious and thank goodness he had underwear on!

What fun we had though! I think Kim mentioned wanting to do this again in the fall while it's still warm outside. I believe all the volunteers expressed an interest in doing it again and all were very happy they had volunteered. What a great feeling knowing we helped 62 Greyhounds in a 3-4 hour period.

I spoke with Alan on Sunday and he said to me, "Those dogs look like show dogs". Now, that's a nice feeling, for sure. They probably feel like it too!

Neuton - The Half Breed

I mean that in a very loving way. Here's the story on Neuton, and no, he isn't my dog! I've reached my limit! He belongs to my cubemate, Barbie, at work.

Another work associate sent a mass email saying her son had to give up his Whippet because he lost his home and he couldn't take care of him any longer. Barbie wasn't working that day so I forwarded the email to her home email address since this was a Friday and I wanted her to see it before Monday. Unknowingly, our other cubemate buddy here at work did the same thing. Definitely, the peer pressure was on!

On Monday, Barbie came to work and commenced to trying to contact the co-worker who sent the original email. After numerous phone calls and emails, the co-worker did get back to Barbie and an appointment day and time was set for her to visit with "Sammie" (his name at the time). Since Sammie lived in Douglasville, I offered to go with Barbie to see him. The appointment was set for that Thursday after work. On that day after work, the "Whippet Express" headed West. We arrived at our destination in record time and visited with Sammie who had been outside with a few bigger dogs. He definitely is not a full-blooded Whippet but does have some in him. I think he's a Whippet/Beagle mix. Or possibly Whippet/Jack Russell Terrier. What do you think?

Barbie fell in love with little Sammie, nka Neuton. So off we went to my house to let my girls out and introduce Neuton to "the big girls". He was very afraid of them but stood his ground. After that, we headed to Petsmart so Barbie could stock up on necessities.

As you can tell from the pictures, Neuton has settled in quite nicely into his new home in John's Creek. He is currently learning to swim in his "cement pond" and honing his squirrel hunting skills. What a great ending, huh?

Look Ma, No Hands!!

Or paws, I should say.

I think I've harped on the benefits of marrow bones for the dogs, but I just have to say I'm exceptionally thrilled after Friday's vet visit. You see, I took Sugar in for her yearly dental. The vet called at about 11:30 a.m. (which scared the heck out of me), but he had good news instead! He had just finished his initial dental exam on Sugar and determined that she didn't really need a dental afterall (now, how many vets would do that?). Wow, saved me about $150, plus Sugar didn't need to go under anesthesia. That's great news indeed. So, we continue with the marrow bones (weekly if I can find them) or a Greenie or two during the week. It definitely pays off!

Check out the technique used in the video - now that's pure skill and definitely the work of professionals!

A Greyhound Dinner Party

Well, it wasn't really, but there were eight Greyhounds in attendance and five humans at a recent dinner party I hosted. I thought this video pretty funny. Where the heck are the humans? Too funny but very "normal" in a Greyhound home, well, I should say in my Greyhound home!

Take Me Out to the BallGame, Take Me Out With The Crowds . . .

Well, I didn't buy any peanuts or Cracker Jacks (darn it), but on Sunday, Lucy and I attended our very first Bark in the Park event at Turner Field as the Braves took on the Oakland A's. Funny, I had to look at the calendar just now to see who the heck we did play! I did watch some of the ballgame but the most fun was watching the other dogs and their people.

Proceeds from "Bark in the Park" will benefit the Bobby Cox "Paws Because . . . They are Worth Saving," helping to rescue animals in danger of being euthanized. So the price of the ticket for Lucy and myself (all of $23) was well worth it, especially knowing it would benefit such a great cause.

What a time we had indeed! There were small dogs, medium dogs, big dogs, all decked in their Braves attire and all seemingly enjoying being with their humans and being at the ballpark. I even think my Lucy enjoyed the afternoon. She laid down beside me on her Canine Hardware travel bed and surveyed the crowd, the sights, and sounds. She was taking it all in, believe me, like a kid in a candy shop! I'm sure she had some great stories to tell Remi and Sugar when we arrived back home. Unfortunately, each human is limited to one dog so I had to make a choice and I thought Lucy would better endure the stairs, the new surroundings, and the noise. And she did a fabulous job! In fact, she tried very hard to fit into the stereotypical Braves fan profile by trying to eat everyone's hamburger, hot dog, peanuts, dropped French fries, etc., even going so far as to lick mustard off the floor. She is definitely a moocher and a scavenger.

I did get her a Lick A Lot treat (it's like doggy ice cream - frozen yogurt, peanut butter, and honey). Of course that was gone in minutes providing her ample time to scout the area for something else to consume. Well, I had a Bud Light and decided I would give her a bit. Yep, you guessed it, she loved it. I gave her a bit more and then I had to cut her off. Nothing worse than a drunk Greyhound trying to navigate the steep stairs trying to get out of there (I had visions - very bad visions). She definitely took to the beer like a duck to water. It didn't surprise me much as most Greyhounds have had some beer at some time in their life and usually it was during their days at the track. You see, their trainers will sometimes make them drink beer after they've run a race to get them to pee so they don't get "tied up" (whatever the heck that means). That's all I know and is what I've been told along the way. I just know that being "tied up" is very serious and can kill a Greyhound so they readily have beer on hand for just this purpose. This is usually something that happens with the male dogs so I'm not sure Lucy had ever had beer but she sure did like it. Kim's dogs will actually knock over a beer bottle if it's sitting on the coffee table. This is so they can drink it, of course. Bad dogs! I've told her they need to go to a canine AA meeting.

Anyhoo, we had such a grand time at the ballpark, that's for sure. Lucy slept most of the way home - she was beat. As I always say, a tired dog is a happy dog (and a happy dog Mom)!

Photos from the event can be found on http://www.ajc.com/ (click Living, click Pets, scroll down to Photo Galleries). As well, I should have some here in the next few days www.greyhoundadoption.org/news/galleries.cfm.

Who Knew?

SEGC (Southeastern Greyhound Club) held it's Annual Bring Your Greyhounds Meeting at SummerWind Farm in Newnan, Georgia this past Saturday. I was in charge of this event and decided months ago that we should do something different - really different. So, I decided that we should do a Luau, complete with lei's, Hawaiian music, and wonderful Hawaiian food. This being our first Luau themed meeting, I wanted it to be really special. About 66 folks signed up to attend which definitely upped the anti for me to have everything just perfect. The catch phrase we used to entice folks to join us was "Come Get Lei'd at the Farm". That was John's idea, the owner of SummerWind and President of SEGC.

Fortunately for us, SummerWind hosted a wedding reception the night before so we made use of their huge tent, tables, chairs, tablecloths, and they even left their flower centerpieces for us to enjoy. That was really nice but I wish I had known that and I would have saved some bucks by not buying decorations that we ended up not using. Oh well, who knew? I imagine we can use them again at another function.
I tried to think of games that we could play and decided that we would definitely do the Limbo but it would be for the Greyhounds only. No humans allowed! Wow, who knew that Greyhounds could do the Limbo?

Here are some pictures of me coaxing my Remi under the bamboo pole. What my girl wouldn't do for a treat! She did a fabulous job and without any prior training. I'm quite proud of her. She ended up tied with another Greyhound, Venus, for the winning spot. We forfeited so Venus' humans could enjoy the prize (which I had obtained by the way so I couldn't very well win it, too) which was two dinners to Medievel Times. They'll have a great time, I'm sure. And Venus put in quite a performance as well.

I think we started with about 10 or so worthly opponents. Amazingly enough, none of them appeared to be afraid of the Limbo pole. It was almost as if they had all done this before! I swear it! But we all know they certainly don't have time at the dog track to be playing Limbo with the Greyhounds!

In fact, they don't even have time to play with them at all. Kim, Guy and I have visited the Southern New England Kennel at Birmingham Race Course on several occasions and the kennel owner there, Alan Olson, is so appreciative of our visits because he said that's the only "play-time" the dogs get on a regular basis! The schedule and routine of the day and the races is simply prohibitive for Alan and his wife to spend quality time with the dogs. They do adore each and every one of them and adopt 100% of their retirees. The adoption group I volunteer for, Southeastern Greyhound Adoption, has taken several of their Greyhounds and has placed them into loving homes. They are just wonderful people and their dogs are fabulous. We appreciate what fine Greyhound kennel owners they are so much, in fact, that we are planning a dog wash for their kennel on June 14th. Yep, we've found about 12 volunteers who will go over that afternoon and wash about 60 or so Greyhounds. All Greyhounds in the kennel will get a bath except those racing that night. It should be a breeze and great fun! Just a community service project that a few of us want to do. I'll definitely have pictures and I'm sure a funny post after that activity.

In the meantime, Remi and I will practice our Limbo a bit so we will be fully prepared next year to take home the prize (that hopefully someone else will be in charge of by then)!

An Update From the Commuting Front

This week has been so grand not having to drive in the daily snarling traffic. It is such a relief and is so much less stressful, it is unreal. I honestly think my blood pressure might go down. But before I get carried away with the pleasant side of all this, don't think there aren't any stresses related to commuting. Let's see, there is the daily early morning drive to the bus stop (Hiram theater) where I honestly drive like a "bat out of hell" in an attempt to get there in time and not miss the bus. It's a challenge, for sure. I have been going to bed later than I should and then having a hard time getting out of bed. My goal is to fix that this coming week and get back on schedule - no matter what! In bed by 9 p.m. and up by 3:45 a.m.

Once on the bus using a CCT paper card, the next challenge (if I'm by myself) is to avoid getting sat on by that rather "large" woman I spoke of in an earlier post. Once that situation is under control, I am next challenged with getting into the MARTA rail station using the Bus to Rail Transfer card the bus driver gives me every morning (if I remember to ask for it). Out of the last three weeks, it has worked properly at the turnstiles three times. It's not user error as I swipe it as I was instructed by the MARTA employee (remember my one-on-one swiping lesson from last week?). They just don't consistently work. Luckily there is usually a MARTA employee there who can authorize entry using their own card.

Next the challenge is to catch the northbound Doraville train. We usually miss it because we are wasting time at the turnstiles trying to get into the station. Another train is usually not far behind but we still have to wait 5-8 minutes for it's arrival. Once on board that train, it's a nice 20-25 minute ride to the Brookhaven station. From there we usually have a few minutes until our complimentary van arrives to take us the rest of the way.

Coming back, it's about the same except that I use MARTA's Breeze card for entry onto the train and onto the bus. It works every time, without fail. Well, except for the bus (CCT) rides I put on the card on Wednesday and Thursday which would eliminate the need to use the paper CCT card and thus the Bus to Rail Transfer that never works. Anyway, on Wednesday I purchased 10 rides ($13.50) but found out when they didn't work on Thursday that they were for local rides on CCT not "express rides" which is what I'm doing. So, on Thursday I invested another $47 for 20 Express Rides on CCT and put those on my Breeze card. I thought all was well but this morning the Breeze card with the CCT rides didn't work again. Thank God I had the paper CCT card I had been using as a backup. I called the Breeze folks at MARTA and she said the fare box on the bus must not have been working. I'll try again on Monday and see what happens.

I must say it is very frustrating trying to get to know the system and understand what is expected, not to mention trying to catch the right bus at the right time and the right train at the right time. I think that I could write a "Dummies Guide to Successfully Commuting in Atlanta" manual and probably would make lots of money thus eliminating the need for me to commute!

With all that being said, I try to entertain myself so I don't get bored with the whole thing. Let's see - I now have my Zune which is wonderful, I might add. I am working to get more CDs loaded and will sign up with a service so I can download movies and even upload movies off my DVDs and convert them to my Zune. The Zune has an awesome 3.2 inch color display and great sound. I've been watching some NBC News podcasts that are updated nightly and I've downloaded some Cesar Millan episodes to watch and there are scads of other podcasts I haven't even looked at yet. My unit is the 80 (GB) so I can store up to 20,000 songs, or 25,000 pictures, or 250 hours of video. I'll never fill it up but I will certainly have fun trying!

Besides the Zune, there is definitely ample people watching available during the entire commute from Hiram to my building on Clairmont and then back. I just sit, listen or watch my Zune, and watch the people. Yesterday we were waiting for our bus at the Five Points Station and a man rode by on his bike with a boom box attached to the handlebars. Cracked me up!

I will start carrying my Flip so I can record a few snippets of the funnier things we see! Sometimes the free entertainment is better than the stuff we pay for!

Success is Measured in Many Ways!

Well, today we ventured to Cartersville to lure course in SEGC's last Spring trial. During prelims Lucy failed to make the first turn, actually running way past it, but she did spot it after that and did "catch up" and then ran like a champ. Unfortunately the judges didn't think her run all that spectacular scoring her a total of 148 for prelims. After lunch, I made sure she watched the lure a few times and hopefully would run better. She did, somewhat, scoring a 152. Unfortunately again, this wasn't enough to put her in a higher placement and she ended up in fourth place out of four dogs. She is safe and sound though, so that is most important. We are hoping to get out of the Open category before the fall season but I'm not sure that will happen at this point. She now has 84 points but needs 100 to move to the Field Champion category. All in good time, I suppose. So, to sum up today, she achieved one success in the fact that she ended the day without injury . . . tired, but definitely fine and fit as can be. That is definitely a good thing!

The second is, well, simply gross, for lack of a better word. We got home from Cartersville today at about 5:40 p.m. I was anxious to get somewhat settled so I could watch the Kentucky Derby. I let the girls out in the backyard so they could potty before their dinner. I didn't muzzle them as I usually do, I guess because I was in a hurry and thought they would be as well so they could get back inside for dinner - it had been a long day for all of us. The next thing I know, they are all three coursing a squirrel who apparently had been on the ground when they ran out there. The squirrel did quite a few jig saws back and forth, all the while the three girls were coursing him left and then right and back again and all around. It was quite a sight - almost like a ballet. Very smooth and fluid, really quite beautiful.

In the end though, Lucy won the prize, if you can call it that . . . she got the kill. I still can't understand why Remi and Sugar would give it up to her but they did, although I don't think they had much choice in the matter as Lucy was determined to stay on the poor thing during this entire ordeal. Well, I quickly ran back into the house and into the garage to my vehicle to retrieve my camera. I was gone perhaps 45-60 seconds. I quickly took off the lens cap and camera cap, put the lens on and ran back outside to snap a quick shot of Lucy with her prize squirrel dangling out of her mouth (that is the squirrel on the ground with Lucy over it). Sounds morbid, I know, but she has hunted squirrels for over a year now since she came to live with us and has been unsuccessful until today. So I thought it befitting to get a photo of her with her trophy catch! Well, that was not to be (read on). When I had arrived back at the "killing spot" where Lucy was with her prize, I immediately saw that she was definitely quite taken with her squirrel.

At first I thought she was just gumming him or something - I had no idea she was doing what she was doing until I got a little closer and it was then that I could hear the crunching and saw her jaw movement. UGH, I know (hope you've had dinner, lunch or breakfast before reading this). She had commenced to eating the head of the poor squirrel. I tried to get her to "leave it" - yeah, like she is going to drop something she has pursued for 15 months and come to me all happy as can be. NOT!! She crunched a few more times and it was then that she decided, I think, that it wasn't as much fun because the thing wasn't squirming anymore. But by then, the squirrel's head had been completely consumed by my dear, sweet, kiss your face, Lucy. Disgusting, I know, I almost threw up on her and the carcass (see picture - go grab throw up bag first!).

After this was all said and done, I herded the girls back into the house, retrieved the shovel from the garage, and a body bag from the cupboard. I shoveled the poor thing into his final resting place and then put him in the outside garbage can. I can't possibly bury all the squirrels they kill out there so that is the best solution that I can think of.

I have since baby-wiped Lucy's entire face and have brushed her teeth. I wish I had some doggy mouth wash.

I just know at about 6 a.m. in the morning, she is going to want to give me her morning lovin' where she snuggles up to me and licks my face. Guess I'll deal with that then. In the meantime, I'm just hoping she doesn't decide to throw up her afternoon snack. I think I would just die!

PS - my typical pet names for Lucy range from Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds to Lucifier to just plain Crazy! I think now I'll have to call her Squirrel Breath!

PS AGAIN - Lucy earned 5 points on Sunday with another 4th placement out of 5 Greyhounds so she now has a Grand total of 89 points.

The Perils of Public Commuting

As some of you know, I've joined the masses in using public transportation to get to and from work. My one-way commute is 41.7 miles so anything is an improvement over that. And with gas prices rising daily, it's much more economical, to say the least. I can certainly afford the two tanks of gas a week it normally takes me but I refuse to support the high prices. There is no reason it should cost so much. I believe it now costs me about $4 a day to commute using the bus and train.

So, the morning starts at 3:45 a.m. when I roll out of bed. I shower, feed the girls, eat breakfast, do some email, do makeup and hair, dress, crate the girls, and get out of the house by 5:15 a.m. The Express Bus that I ride from Hiram leaves the Hiram movie theaters (that's where we park) at 5:35 a.m. Once on that bus, we pick up a few folks along Thornton Road. Well, that's where the story gets kind of funny. For the two weeks I've been doing this, there is a woman who gets on at the BP station on Thornton Road. She is a rather large woman, well, I'm being nice there - she is actually fat. And, unfortunately, with all the empty seats on the bus, she always sits by me. Or I should say "on" me. The seat just isn't big enough for her ass so she spills over onto me. Today, I tried something different in that I sat further back on the bus, thinking she wouldn't see me but no, lo and behold, she scouted me out and plopped her fat self down right beside me. It is quite uncomfortable to endure for the ride to the MARTA Five Points Station where I am then, thankfully, set free. Typically this isn't a problem as my cubemate usually rides with me and sits beside me. Unfortunately, though, he is on vacation this week so I have had to fend for myself and obviously I haven't been doing a good job of it. My friend also drives to the office on Thursdays so that is another day that I have to grin and bear it, I suppose.

The other morning I got on the train and stupidly sat beside a man who smelled as if he had just finished a 6-pack of Bush beer only a few hours before. And that's a 20-25 minute ride. UGH!! I could hardly breathe and felt I'd certainly get drunk on his second-hand fumes.

Once at the Brookhaven Station, I disembark and walk down to the street level where there is usually a van, compliments of the Department of Revenue (where I've worked as a contractor for the last four years), waiting to take a group of us the remaining 10 minutes to the building where we work.

The other afternoon on the bus ride home, I sat beside a rather nice black gentleman who coincidentally works as a contractor at the IRS. I thought that was a hoot. Who would have thunk it? We certainly didn't chat about taxes!

Needless to say I spend most of my days strategizing my commute and how to make it all more comfortable. One effort on my part toward that goal is the purchase of a new Zune. It's Microsoft's answer to the iPod and is suppose to have better sound and video than the iPod. It will keep me occupied watching movies and listening to ebooks and music. One of the factors in my decision to get the Zune instead of an iPod is that at this time it has far fewer accessories than the iPod which will ultimately save me more money as I won't be inclined to "buy this and buy that".

This morning was definitely a step in the right direction despite getting sat on like a chicken egg on the bus! The train was slammed packed full of people when even more of us stepped aboard at the Five Points Station. This black gentleman actually asked me if I'd like to sit (there were no more seats) and then proceeded to get up so I could sit down. Obviously I took him up on his offer as I am still lugging my personal laptop to and from work and it does get rather heavy after a little bit of time. That was very nice of him and actually instilled a bit more faith in me that mankind isn't all that bad after all.

And today I was successful in getting the MARTA turnstile worker to show me how to swipe the bus to rail transfer card so that the turnstile would open for me. I've not been able to do that since beginning this adventure last week. Normally the same little guy will just tell me, "you're holding the card wrong". Well, no kidding Einstein. After that he usually will then swipe his card which will open the turnstile for me to get into the train station. I was in the right mood (after the uncomfortable bus ride) to stop and ask the little Marta worker, "well, show me how to hold the card so it does work". Imagine that . . . providing information to an individual so they learn and, therefore, won't need to bother you the next morning. What a novel idea. He reluctantly showed me the "right" way to swipe the transfer card. I hope I won't dissappoint him on Monday when I try using his instructions. We can only hope . . .

The bright thing in all of this is that I practically still have a full tank of gas from the fill-up on Sunday! Can't beat that! And I am much less stressed when I get to work and when I get home, which is also a good thing. I'll continue this new mode of transportation as long as I can as I rather enjoy sitting and letting someone else do the driving. That, in and of itself, is the best part of it all and is definitely well worth the effort!

What is wrong with this picture?

Yes, you guessed it . . . there is a dog missing. Much to my surprise, when I accessed my "doggy cam" yesterday morning, this is what I saw. Scared the mess out of me!

Thank goodness though, later that morning I did see Remi stroll by, gaze out the window, reach down to say "na na boggey" to Sugar, and then lay down on the dog bed there to the left. After seeing her, I was assured that she was indeed in the house and that I hadn't mistakenly left her outside for the day! Oh my, imagine if that had been the case! Anyway, apparently I had not properly closed the door on her crate or else I have a houdini in the house! :) When I arrived home, all was well!

I have checked the doggy cam today and this is what I like to see . . .

Three Greyhounds, sleeping away! Sleep soundly my girls!!

Peter Rabbit Again?

Well, I was sitting here in my home office working away on the computer when something caught my eye outside the window. I saw the back end of it go by which peaked my interest. At first I thought it must be a cat as I've seen a few wandering through my yard at times but when I got up to get a closer view, I realized it was no kitty but indeed it was Peter Rabbit. He just sat there looking at me as I looked at him, frozen in time. When I gathered my wits about me, I quickly went to get the camera, take all the caps off, put the damn lens on, put the battery in, turn it on (not quite the same as picking up a point and shoot) and luckily the bunny was still there. He had moved a few steps closer to the house on the sidewalk. I took this picture from inside the window. I stupidly but very quietly opened the front door, me already in my nightgown with camera in hand, hoping to be able to get a close up shot without any glass between us (by this time the girls had seen him through the window). Of course, that was not to be. He immediately took flight and ran faster than I could have imagined. My coursing instinct so badly wanted to let the girls loose on him just to see what might transpire but I knew better than to try that. It would have been fun though had it been inside a fenced area! Maybe another time!

Tinkering Around

I decided to get the camera out and play around a bit with what is left of blooms around my yard after Saturday's rains beat them all to death. I hope to get much better but I'm quite pleased with these shots. Look for news soon of my new Zenfolio site. Hopefully I'll have some interesting prints to put there in the next few months.

Cleveland ACoD Trip, March 28-30, 2008

Here is a video diary of my trip to ASFA's ACoD this year held March 28-30 in Cleveland, Ohio. Actually it was in Hudson, but that's close enough!

The Hotel

Blogging about this past weekend's coursing wouldn't be complete without some pictures or video from the hotel experience. We had five Greyhounds and two women in one room with two double beds for one night! Here is Sugar playing possum. She was no more asleep than I was!

And here is some pretty uncoordinated video recorded by me as we were getting back to the room after dinner (and drinks) and as we were getting attacked at the door by the dogs.

More Coursing

This past weekend we motored down to Moreland, Georgia to Bear Creek Farm for Southeastern Greyhound Club's (SEGC) Run for Rescue and the Lucy-Foxey Cup trials. Bear Creek Farm is a beautiful 2,000 acre farm nestled in the backwoods of Coweta County not far from Newnan. I wish I had some decent shots of the farm as it is spectacular. Unfortunately, the land owners (Hal and Linda Barry) were away for the weekend attending a Steeplechase in Aiken, South Carolina so we didn't get a chance to chat with them as we usually do. However, they are intrigued with the lure coursing sport and enjoy watching the dogs run and I'm sure wished they had been there! We will be back at that field in October so hopefully they will be there then.

SEGC held a regional awards dinner that evening at a local restaurant so I had decided to stay over at a local motel so that I could attend the dinner. My friend Heather and her Greyhounds Seka and Roxy also stayed with us. Yep, two women and five Greyhounds! What a party! Actually they were all very good girls. We couldn't have asked for anything more than that except maybe a ground floor room. Next time I'll remember that!

Anyhoo, coursing on Saturday was pretty interesting. The course was 920 yards I believe. And the weather was hot, the ground was dry, and the dogs were impressive. Lucy had a good morning run and a good afternoon run. I have forgotten her scores but will get those posted here this evening.

Here is a video of her morning run, I believe. I think my next toy will need to be a camcorder so that I can shoot better long distance videos! More toys and more toys - it never seems to end but I'm sure I would get terribly bored if it did!

At the end of the day, Lucy wound up in a three-way tie for 3rd place, 4th place, and NBQ (5th place). One dog forfeited so I decided to run her for the third time that day to determine the 3rd and 4th place winners. We really wanted to come in 3rd because of the points we would be awarded. You don't get any points after 3rd place - only a ribbon.

Here is a shot of her and her opponent after the initial release, going full-steam ahead chasing the plastic bunnies. And I believe this was the final run-off for 3rd-4th place.

This was taken with my new camera. I have a zoom lens ordered which is on the DHL truck as I type this. I can't wait to work with it! I image I'll be able to get some excellent shots.

The picture below is after Lucy had come in from the run-off and me trying to get her slip lead on her to walk her out before I took her to get some water, get her coursing blanket off and get her cooled down. BTW, she did end up in 3rd place - yeppie!

This was also the day that Heather's Seka ran a practice run. She tried to practice Roxy who would have no part of it. Seka ran beautifully, even if she is missing a toe on one of her back feet! She then entered Seka in Singles for Sunday's trial. Her total score for the day was 310 which was outstanding. Heather is definitely hooked on the sport now, even more so than Seka is, I think. I expect they will be at the May trials in Cartersville.

It truly is just plain, good, clean fun both for the humans who partake and definitely for the hounds. It does get competitive though which just adds some spice to the mix if you ask me!

Oh, I didn't run Lucy on Sunday because during the run-off on Saturday she busted the big pad on one of her back feet. I've been nursing it ever since and thank goodness that is the least serious injury that can occur on the coursing field and one that heals rather rapidly.

I've increased Lucy's training regime - with all this new up and coming talent we don't really have a choice! We'll be ready for May's trials though, so watch out!

Another Successful Day Lure Coursing

And by successful, I mean that there were no injuries. Unfortunately that is always in the back of one's head when you slip your dog and they tear off going what, like 45 miles per hour, chasing the plastic bunnies. But it's the risk you take to be able to see your dog enjoy something so much. Even more so than the marrow bones if you can believe that!

We coursed on Sunday, March 16th, because we were suppose to be in the St. Patrick's Day parade on Saturday, March 15th however due to the tornados that hit downtown Atlanta Friday night, the parade was cancelled. Bummer, for sure! My girls were all ready, outfits all prepped, and I had made a gazillion peanut butter cookies in the shape of shamrocks for the Greyhounds participating in the parade. Not to worry, they aren't going to waste!

Back to coursing . . . there were only three Open dogs that day and Lucy came in first again! She ran the course so fast, it was unbelievable. The morning preliminary run was good, however, she slipped and tumbled. I think she just lost her footing. She immediately sprang up and sighted the lure and continued on as if nothing had happened. During the fall she apparently broke the elastic neck binding to her coursing blanket. As she was coming in "for the landing" as I call it, it appeared she had no blanket on at all. In fact she did still have it attached to her waist. It was flapping in the breeze behind her and honestly, once she stopped running, it looked like a skirt. Absolutely too funny. She must have impressed the judges with her running style, skirt and all, because they scored her the highest of the three Open runs that morning.

The afternoon run was just as spectacular but thank God, no mishaps occurred. She scored the highest then as well and combined, of course, put her in First place for the day. I believe her final combined score was 310. She was eligible to run for Best in Breed against the Parker's dog Cole, but John and I decided to flip a coin instead, thus sparing the two dogs from having to run the course again. John won the toss so Cole was awarded the Best in Breed ribbon. I should have run Lucy as she certainly could have done it and could have beat Cole but then the course was so horrible for Greyhounds that I was thankful the day was over! By the way, her final score of 310 was about 6 points higher than any of the final scores of the two Field Champion dogs, including that of Cole. That Lucy is phenomenal! And fast - it scares the bageebies out of me!

Here is a shot of Lucy later that evening. Now tell me, is that a tired pup? Looking at the head shot I'd almost think it looks like my dear Lucy needs braces on her teeth! Naw, we won't go there. Been there done that myself and it ain't fun!

Here is a shot of Savannah, my Ragdoll kitty. She is also SEGA's official cat tester. Now, how official does she look? I love that cat. I've always referred to her as my "cat dog" because she is so "dog-like" in her mannerisms. I can call her and she'll come running. Seriously. She so badly wants to go out to potty with the Greyhounds but we all know that "Greyhounds plus kitty in the big outdoors" do not mix well. It definitely wouldn't be a pretty sight. So, she just lives out her "dog wanna be" fairytale life inside the house with her three Greyhounds whom she adores. And they adore her!

And lastly, here is a head shot of Lucy. She looks as if she is posing. See, she can do Meet and Greets, do Pet Therapy, Lure Course with the best of them, and even Model. Very versatile! Ha!

All of these pictures were taken with my new Canon Rebel XTi EOS Digital SLR Camera (10.1 MP). Wow, that's a mouthful to say! I'm quite pleased with the camera thus far but I certainly have alot to learn about it. This isn't quite like the point and shoot Kodak I've been using!

I think a photography class is in my future!

Pure Ecstasy

Nothing more needs to be said . . .

Lazy Sunday - Well, For Some!

I spent most of Saturday and a great bit of today outside enjoying the wonderful weather. Enjoying as much as I could while also doing yard work. It needed to be done and it was a great relief to get most of it done before the Spring really hits. I have to remulch the flowerbeds, put out some fertilizer, and get the garden prepped for planting. That's the garden behind Lucy (who is being lazy). I hope to plant some beans, new potatoes, broccoli, maybe some lettuce and God knows what else. I really enjoy having a garden. I can grow most anything and usually try something off the wall every year. One year I grew some cotton. Yep, the hardest thing about that was finding the seed! I had to order it off the Internet. Even the local Feed and Seed stores don't have cotton seed! You should have seen the looks I would get when I would ask! It was quite funny!

Anyway, with lure coursing and my volunteer activities it's been difficult to have a garden the past few years but I'm determined to get one going this year. I think I can do it. I have to be diligent in getting out there and getting the soil amended and then getting some seeds and plants in the ground before it's too late.

I even have this wonderful tiller - it's a Mantis. It's called "a woman's tiller" because it's so easy to handle. You just hang on and walk it around and try not to run into the fence with it! It really does an excellent job. My brother had to use it a few years back when he and my Dad built my patio for me out of a gazillon 2' x 2' pavers. He thought it was most awesome. I do, too!

While I was working my butt off (I guess hard work never hurt anyone), the dogs took the opportunity to rest and then rest some more. Sugar, shown here on the left, isn't passed out but is really sunbathing. She loves doing this. In fact, her bums are a bit sunburned now. It happens all the time because her bums aren't the furriest so it's basically bare skin there. I should have put sunscreen on her and have done this numerous times before.

Remi also enjoyed a bit of sunbathing. She doesn't get sunburned but I think she is getting "age spots" on her belly. That's what they look like to me - just dark spots. I should probably put sunscreen on her as well. At one point I looked around and Remi was roaching next to Sugar with all four legs straight in the air, using Sugar to prop her up because they were on an incline. It was too cute! Those two love each other so much. They'll lay together and can actually "touch" legs or paws and not freak about it. On the other hand, Sugar and Lucy are like that as well. Remi just deals with Lucy, I think. She likes her okay but she isn't that fond of her, not like she is of Sugar. Guess that's what time will do as Sugar and Remi have been together 4-5 years and Lucy has only been here 1 year. It'll all work itself out in the wash, I suppose.

I must say how jealous I was watching the dogs just lounge around being lazy in the sun like lizards out on rocks on a warm afternoon. I remember the days when I could also lounge around on the beach growing up, with not a care in the world. Oh how I cherish those days! I know Remi, Sugar, and Lucy are cherishing their lazy afternoons as well.

Phobias and Snow?

Yesterday morning we experienced severe thunderstorms across the metro Atlanta area. I think it was worse than the other day when there were so many tornados spotted in the area. I did hear that Carrollton did indeed get hit by at least two tornados, one an EF2 and one an EF3. The storms flattened trees, knocked out power to at least 93,000 homes and left injuries across metro Atlanta.

One man was injured in Carroll County when a tree fell on his vehicle, impaling him. He was taken to Tanner Medical Center. There's no word on his condition. The wind that ripped through Carroll County picked up Linda Bryant, 64, and blew her into some nearby woods as she walked from her house to her car. She is listed in serious condition at Tanner Medical Center. Two Lassiter High School students were injured in Cobb County when a tree fell on their car. The tree was a direct hit and neighbors and firefighters feared the worst. But the two went to the hospital with only cuts and bruises. Three people were trapped in their beds by falling trees and all sustained injuries requiring hospitalization.

Before the fast moving storm was near us, dear Lucy began her panting and shaking and barking. You see, she is phobic of storms. The hard driving rain, the thunder, and the lightening all scare the mess out of her. I had given her a few droppers of some holistic stuff called Relieve de Stress. It's mostly flower essences and does seem to help. I also wiped her down with a dryer sheet. They say this eliminates static electricity thus relieving the dog of some of the symptoms of the phobia. It also seems to help.

However, I think we might try some Melatonin next time. This is basically a sleep aid for humans. Given at a 3 mg. dosage for dogs, Lucy's doctor advised it may help but certainly wouldn't hurt. So, we will try that. I worry about her and wish I knew what she was thinking and wish I could help. I've never had a phobic dog, however, Savannah (the Ragdoll cat) is also phobic. She just cowers under the bed until it's all said and done.

I can sympathize with Lucy and Savannah as I, myself, am quite frightened of really bad storms. During my childhood in Florida, we experienced many bad storms but we always left town when a hurricane was approaching therefore I never really experienced that sort of weather until I was way into my 20's. However, the tornados we endure in Atlanta cannot ever be compared to hurricanes because they are unpredictable and can crop up out of nowhere. Therein lies the fear. And there is no basement in my home. Many times I have gathered the animals and have hunkered down in the guest bathroom which is the most central room in the entire house. That, in and of itself, is scary - 3 dogs, 1 cat and me all in the guest bathroom! :)

And if the recent stormy weather wasn't weird enough, this morning most of Atlanta received a dusting of snow. Yes, snow again. That is three (or is it four?) times this winter! What is up with that? At my house we didn't see any of the white stuff, however Accuweather did forecast flurries in my area during the morning hours. WOW is all I can say!

The Oscars and Tradition

Well, last night the 80th Academy Awards show was broadcast on ABC, straight from rainy southern California! Whew what a night. Ever since I was a little girl I've enjoyed watching the Oscars. The biggest thrill is seeing who wore what and then trying to speculate who will be on the best dressed list and who will be on the worst dressed list. Last night was almost a no brainer. Katherine Heigl definitely hit it right on the head with the beautiful silk georgette Escada column gown she wore. She looked smashing and definitely bought back fond memories of past starlets like Elizabeth Taylor or Natalie Wood who had such style and grace when walking the red carpet.

Of the worst dressed, oh my, there were many. Top of the list was the wife of Daniel Day Lewis. And he with his brown shoes with a black tux with brown trim. And then there was Jennifer Hudson. That dress absolutely did nothing for her figure. I'm certain another choice would have been much better. And then there is Tilda Swinton in her black one-shoulder "croaker sack", as my Dad would have called it. Absolutely horrid! In the famous words of Jay Leno, "What the heck were you thinking?" Don't these people have stylists?

I know I'm no fashionista but I feel certain I would not have made some of those choices. C'est la vie, I suppose. It was still a very classy and wonderful evening. And doesn't George Clooney get more handsome and more debonair every time you see him? I am not even going to comment on what his date (Sarah Jane Larson) was wearing. OK, yes I am. It looked like someone's drapes made over into a strapless dress. I think even Scarlett's forest green velvet drape-made dress in Gone with the Wind was more becoming than the one Sarah was wearing. But, oh, I digress.

The highlight for me was the traditional lobster dinner that I always make in honor of the Oscars. I also enjoyed a stuffed baked potato, corn on the cob, and plenty of Mojitos! For dessert, some of that wonderful chocolate ice cream I made on Saturday. Oh, and because I couldn't finish my entire lobster tail, what do you think I did with the remaining uneaten half? No, I didn't save it for later but instead decided to share it with "the girls"! Yes, and they loved it! I've also discovered they are quite fond of shrimp. Thank God they aren't allergic to shellfish!

Last Night

Well, last night my good friend Kim and her husband, Guy, came to dinner along with their three greyhounds, Rosie, Lindsey, and Bella. They really love coming over and the girls enjoy seeing each other as they are also the best of friends. The original idea was to grill Bubba burgers and sit outside so all the girls could enjoy being outside with their very filled Kongs. Well, the temperature never rose to the predicted 65 degrees (in fact it was darn cold) so we had to hang inside which was just as much fun. We did grill burgers and along with that had baked fries and boiled corn on the cob. Here's a little video I took right after dinner. Remi had left the room for some peace and quite, I guess, so there are only five dogs in the video. Oh, notice who is sitting on the sofa and love seat. Well, there is one human there but the dogs have the run of the place as you can see. Sugar, there on the left on the sofa looks as if she's had way too much to drink and can't get up! Don't worry, this is normal behavior for her!

And after dinner while we were enjoying the movie Forrest Gump, we took a break to make our ice cream sundaes I had planned for dessert. I had made homemade chocolate ice cream with homemade whipped cream! Yummy, it was delicious. You can see the girls had nothing else on their minds! There were 6 dogs in the kitchen but by the time I picked up the Flip, 3 had left the room! I guess they knew they were not going to get any dessert while the 3 who remained apparently believed we would indeed, give in, which we did not!! What a night. We all had a wonderful time!

Lure Coursing

This certainly isn't Lucy's best run, but this will show you what it's all about. Hopefully I'll get a better video at the next trial.

Lure Coursing

We coursed this past Saturday at the Chase trial at Old Mill Farm in Cartersville. All three girls attended, however, only Lucy coursed. She ended up taking a 2nd place out of 3! We were hoping for a first placement but that's okay. I've learned throughout the years that it's better to have a safe and healthy hound at the end of the day than a ribbon or points although the latter is always welcome! From the three trials Lucy has run in where she could earn points toward her Field Champion title, she has earned 57 points thus far. That isn't too shabby for three trials! The points are based on placement plus the number of hounds she beat in her category. Right now she is still running in Open, until she acquires 100 points and then we move to Field Champion. She is looking forward to that where she can "run with the big dogs"!

I have a video that a friend shot of her first course on Saturday. As soon as I get it, I'll load it here for your viewing pleasure.

Our next trial is the Chase trial March 15-16 at Gang Park in Calhoun and then the weekend after that is the SEGC trial March 22-23 at Bear Creek Farm in Moreland.

We have alot of conditioning to do between now and then but we are definitely up for the challenge!

Happy Birthday Sugar!

In my near death illness this week (not really but I have been terribly sick), I failed to even remember my Sugar's birthday which was Tuesday, the 12th. She turned 7 years old! What a joy she has been every day since coming into my home back in 2004.

Sugar was picked up by the Henry County Humane Society back in the spring of that year. She had been seen wandering around I-75 but I think was picked up while rummaging in someone's garbage, if I have the story correct. Research was done and no one claimed her nor did her owner on record know anything about her - it's a mystery. She had not been spayed. I picked her up from HCHS to foster her. What a sweetie even then. The Human Society began calling her Shuggie which I shortened to Sugar. Her registered name is PB's Honey Fritz. Anyway, she was adopted out to a family South of Atlanta who had some acreage, loads of children, and Emu's as well (and other farm type animals). After a few months it became apparent to the new adopters that she was NOT Emu tolerant nor did she care for the children so they returned her. Filthy, I might add and with a flea collar on! Of course, I was appalled and immediately cut that flea collar off and when I got home with her gave her a good scrubbing!

Come to find out, she does like children she just doesn't like to be chased (who does?) and I can't vouch for the Emu tolerance but I do know she has nabbed a few squirrels in the backyard so I am guessing that part is accurate.

Well, in 2005 I began lure coursing Sugar. She had an excellent lure coursing year winning Best in Breed for Greyhounds at the International Invitational that year as well as the Texas Trophy, presented to the most accomplished SEGC Greyhound in his/her rookie year of lure coursing.

Needless to say, I am very proud of her. Happy belated birthday sweetie, and many, many more! (I promise something special tonight in your food dish!)

PS - I have since found out it was more like an Emu massacre! Oh my!

This Is Hysterical!