Rocky Mountain Rat Girl

Boulder Velodrome helmet cam track session 1-24-09

2009-01-31T10:44:00.001-07:00

This is my friend Ryan riding at the new Boulder Velodrome w/ a helmet cam on. These bikes have no brakes, and when you stop peddling, the bike stops going. Makes for a challenging bikeride I'd say. And the corners are at a 45 degree angle...CRAZY but awesome to watch.

Sucks that there's no sound!!

Polar Bears Love Dogs =D

2009-01-26T23:01:00.000-07:00

http://www.flixxy.com/polar-bears-eskimo-dogs.htm

This is awesome!

Meet ET

2008-11-27T11:33:00.001-07:00

My hairless rattie boy.

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..."the Real Girl?"

2008-11-27T11:32:00.001-07:00

Hmmm...

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TaDa!

2008-11-16T07:31:00.001-07:00

It worked...

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Confused?

2008-11-04T07:35:00.001-07:00

> > MOOSEBURGER SERENADE


> > I'm a little confused. Let me see if I have this
> straight.....
> >
> > * If you grow up in Hawaii, raised by your
> grandparents, you're "exotic,
> different."
> >
> > * Grow up in Alaska eating mooseburgers, it's a
> quintessential American
> story.
> >
> > * If your name is Barack, you're a radical,
> unpatriotic Muslim.
> >
> > * Name your kids Willow, Trig and Track, you're a
> maverick.
> >
> > * Graduate from Harvard Law School, and you are
> unstable.
> >
> > * Attend 5 different small colleges before graduating,
>
you're well
> grounded.
> >
> > * If you spend 3 years as a brilliant community
> organizer,become the first
> black President of the Harvard Law Review, create a voter
> registration drive
> that registers 150,000 new voters, spend 12 years as a
> Constitutional Law
> professor, spend 8 years as a State Senator representing a
> district with
> over 750,000 people, become chairman of the state
> Senate's Health and Human
> Services committee, spend 4 years in the United States
> Senate representing a
> state of 13 million people, while sponsoring 131 bills and
> serving on the
> Foreign Affairs, Environment and Public Works and
> Veteran's Affairs
> committees, you don't have any real leadership
> experience.
> >
> > * If your total resume is: local weather girl, 4 years
> on the city council
> and 6
years as the Mayor of a town with fewer than 7,000
> people, 20 months
> as the Governor of a state with only 650,000 people, then
> you 're qualified
> to become the country's second highest ranking
> executive and next in line
> behind a man in his eighth decade.
> >
> > * If you have been married to the same woman for 19
> years while raising 2
> daughters, all within Protestant churches, you're not a
> real Christian.
> >
> > * If you cheated on your first wife with a rich
> heiress, and then left
> your disfigured wife and married the heiress the next
> month, you're a true
> Christian.
> >
> > * If you teach responsible, age appropriate sex
> education, including the
> proper use of birth control, you are eroding the fiber of
> society.
> >
> > * If, while governor, you staunchly
advocate
> abstinence only, with no
> other option in sex education in your state's school
> system while your unwed
> teen daughter ends up pregnant, you're very
> responsible.
> >
> > * If your wife is a Harvard graduate lawyer who gave
> up a position in a
> prestigious law firm to work for the betterment of her
> inner city community,
> then gave that up to raise a family, your family's
> values don't represent
> America's.
> >
> > * If your husband is nicknamed "First Dude,"
> with at least one DWI
> conviction and no college education, who didn't
> register to vote until age
> 25 and once was a member of a group that advocated the
> secession of Alaska
> from the USA, your family is extremely admirable.
> >
> > Still confused??

Pajamas? Who Wears Pajamas?

2008-10-05T08:51:00.008-06:00

I do... now anyway, and when the weather is getting chilly. :)

My Sister "K" saw these and thought I would like them. An adult size "onesie," complete with feet! haha I typically have a difficult time sleeping w/ "clothes" on, but this is actually quite comfortable and snuggly. And, perfect to slip into and just hang out in at home after a long day at work. Bonus.

Why have I posted this on here? "K" said to keep them I had to. Little meanie! haha I think she just wants a chance to laugh at me, which is fine, as I laugh at myself often. And, well, I think they're groovy, so I absolutely want to keep them.

Thanks for the jammies, "K." Diggin' 'em! :)

P.S. Check out my new wood floors!!

Sarah Who?

2008-10-02T09:32:00.004-06:00

OBAMA / BIDEN 2008!!!

A quick quote from my dear friend "D," before I forget...

"Sarah Palin is a stereotype in a vagina suit."

Not bad for a male Republican.

RIP Caleb (Approx. June 2006 - September 11, 2008)

2008-09-14T09:37:00.004-06:00

My 2+ lb. boy, Caleb, had to be helped to "The Bridge" last Wed. as he was suffering terribly from an acute case of Mycoplasma. He could barely breathe (would gasp through his mouth from time to time), and had even stopped eating and drinking. Everything combined helped with the final decision to take him to his doctor and help end his discomfort.

I'll write more of his story when it doesn't hurt so much, and when I can write the short version. In the meantime... Caleb, you were loved very much, you made me giggle, I loved holding your large, squishy body, and I miss you... as does your Foster Mom, Francoise.

Slip-n-Slidin' Great Time w/ Friends

2008-09-03T21:16:00.006-06:00

Having a BLAST recently with some friends at Jess' Housewarming Party, complete w/ "slip-n-slide" (I volunteered to be the elephant-nose-water-sprayer-holder), delicious food, and *shiver*... Patrone. Fun, fun, fun...

THANKS, JESS! *hugs*

Animal Updates and More...

2008-08-10T10:42:00.006-06:00

Unfortunately, after having Hazel my Hedgehog for a month, I had to return her to the Humane Society. I read books and websites about caring for this little spiny insectivor, and, well, we seem to have been incompatible. Not only did I only see her about once a week for a second, until she hid again, but when I would then get her out for playtime / socializing time (when I knew she was already up), she'd bite me... HARD. Friday night she bit me twice, for no reason at all, and with no warning. When a hedgehog bites, they don't just bite and go away, they bite and hold on for a while while digging into your skin. That was it for me, so I took her back with some sadness yesterday morning. She's obviously had some trauma in her life. I've asked them to make note on her chart that she would be best w/ someone who is experienced at the care of hedgehogs... especially socializing them. I'll miss the cute little girl, but not her attitude and painful bites. I wish you well, Hazel, and hope you find a wonderful home.

And, my nearest, dearest hairless rat ET has been fighting a respiratory infection for about a month now. We are on the 4th different round of medicines... he even had to get a shot yesterday at Dr. Bock's, and have to take him back again tomorrow for another one. :( He's wheezing and having a hard time breathing and it makes me so sad. I'm keeping him in quarantine... either in my room or in the bathroom w/ a vaporizor going to try and help him breath, and along with the antibiotics, he's on the two meds that I am prescribed when I'm having asthma problems. Hopefully they'll help him breathe easier. Please get better ET!!!!

I think I'll go have a bowl of ginger granola and watch some of the Olympics... if they're on.

Happy Sunday.

P.S. I got my hair super-highlighted, brows waxed and a new hairstyle Friday evening. I'm trying to get used to the hairstyle which it is definitely more modern, especially the bangs. Hmmm...

Updates

2008-07-27T09:54:00.005-06:00

I previously mentioned that a lot of shit has been going on in my life...

1. I received the results of my CT Angiogram and my aortic aneurysm has increased in size from 4.1 cm to 4.5 cm over the past year... which is not good. I had to gather all sorts of information from all of my doctors and send it to The Cleveland Clinic for a specialist to review and decide whether or not another open heart surgery is necessary right now. (I've already had two of them to repair a bad heart valve in 2000 and having a third to repair my aortic root is only a matter of time, WHICH SUCKS, to put it mildly.) I was told that all things considered, I can wait but I need to have the series of tests that I typically go through yearly again in 6 months... so, Nov. or Dec. of this year and they'll re-evaluate again at that time. I can only hope nothing happens between now and then... or EVER for that matter. Nothing like being scared shitless.

2. On June 24th I was having A/C installed in my condo. I got a call while I was on lunch from work saying there was an "incident" at my place and I needed to get there ASAP. What the fuck? An "incident??" Well, the dumbfucks managed to flood about 80% of my place with several inches of water. How? When they were soldering in the utility room, they set off the sprinkler system (in the utility room and the dining "nook" / kitchen area), and the fire alarms. The water was spraying for about 15 minutes I was told, and the alarms go off throughout the building of all 6 condos. LOVELY. Apparently this causes the fire department to come... lights and sirens blaring.

I got home, was mostly worried about my pet rats, which were safely in my bedroom but freaking out from all the noise and chaos... so I ran them over to my friend Tom's. Then, I asked what the fuck they did to my home.

Needless to say, all of the flooring had to be ripped out except for my bedroom and bathroom, and a lot of drywall had to be replaced... retextured... and repainted.

I had to move to a hotel for two weeks (which wasn't bad, actually) while most of the renovation happened, and my ratties had to go stay with my friend Francoise... which sucked for me. However, the "silver lining" was that I decided to take the money that was estimated for the flooring that I had previously and install wood flooring thoughout the livingroom / kitchen / dining nook. My Dad did most of it, with Mom and myself helping when we could (mostly during demo, when Tom helped also). Wow, what an undertaking, but it's beautiful! And, I'm home and settled again. Now I just have the project of caulking around the door jams... what a pain in the ass.

3. Work has been challenging lately... I won't get into any details. I did get a "promotion" and small raise, but I still don't know what is going on there other than the feelings of unrest.

4. Due to my asthma and tactile allergies, I had to give my two BIG male ratties, Caleb and Hardy, to a friend of mine (Francoise). She was at the point where she was wanting rats again, and they have totally bonded with her, which makes me happy (and sad). I miss them so much, but it was a decision I had to make for my health, and I know they have a wonderful home. And, I visit them once or twice a week.

The boys sure are spoiled now. In fact, they have an entire bedroom!! And a futon too! Right now, I'm rat-sitting them, as Francoise is traveling for 3 weeks. It's nice having their fat selves back for a while.

5. There's other more personal things I'm struggling with as well, but I really don't feel comfortable sharing them with (potentially) the world. I'll just have to keep them inside...

6. On the fun side, recently I adopted a 1 year old female Hedgehog and named her Hazel. She's very cute, yet very prickly. My eldest Niece (she's 7) thought she was a Porcupine. hahaha I'm working on becoming friends with her and getting her to trust me. I think we made some progress last night which made me happy.

I still have three of my dear ratties (ET, Piglet, and Darby), who are still my passion... and my cuddly, smart little ones. Hazel isn't cuddly... OUCH... and she sure isn't smart, but she's adorable and should live 5-7 years vs. the 2-3 years of rats.

That's it for now...

Birthday

2008-07-22T13:35:00.003-06:00

Today is my birthday and as a small gift to myself... I had my aura cleansed / healed. Pretty cool.

WHAT IS THE AURA?

The aura is the electromagnetic field that surrounds the human body (Human Energy Field-HEF) and every organism and object in the Universe.

The Human Energy Field as a collection of electro - magnetic energies of varying densities that permeate through and emit or exit from the physical body of a living person. These particles of energy are suspended around the healthy human body in an oval shaped field. This "auric egg" emits out from the body approximately 2-3 feet (1 metre on average) on all sides. It extends above the head and below the feet into the ground.

It's Been a While...

2008-07-13T11:47:00.004-06:00

OK, so a lot of SHIT has been going on in my life and I have a lot of it to blog about, but it's not going to happen all at once, and not right now.

Right now, however, my current quandry is: Should I stay or should I go... to the Gay Rodeo w/ my buddy Tom and his friend Rob???

I have a few short moments to decide. The decision should be no, as we are celebrating my oldest Niece / Goddaughter's 7th birthday later today, and I wouldn't be back in time. I don't typically see myself as obligated to do this or that, but this is something I must do... the family birthday party.

I love hanging out w/ my gay friends, and I like cowboys and country music. A Gay Rodeo sure sounds like a blast of a good time! DAMN!! Why couldn't it be next weekend, during my 4-day long B-day weekend celebration (for myself) when I have nothing planned? *sigh*

Bruises Anyone?

2008-06-14T15:06:00.007-06:00

Yesterday I had my annual CT Angiogram, and I have some mighty colorful (and a bit painful) bruises on both inner elbows from IVs. The left arm (bottom pic), the nurse got a vein, not what she needed to get. The right arm (top pic), the CT Tech got what he needed to.

Thankfully, I don't have an issue or fear of needles / shots, even if it pinches a bit. The worst part is always the actual injecting of the contrast into my body (aka iodine).

During and after the test I feel like crap, and for the next 48 hrs. I'm directed to drink lots of fluids to help flush all of that iodine out of my system. Needless to say, I'm still not feeling that great. Tomorrow I should be all good though.

Knocking on wood, crossing my fingers, and everything else one can do for good luck that my aortic aneurysm has not enlarged any. Now I wait...

SWAT Team? Flight for Life?

2008-06-07T13:34:00.008-06:00

Today was Boulder Rural Fire Department's Annual Open House. Woo hoo! Something I look forward to every year... mostly to see a couple of my firefighter friends, and, well, too see the Flight for Life as well. (OK, and to see the fire trucks, police cars, bomb squad, SWAT Team, etc. also.) Yes, I'm a kid at heart...

Anyway, today was exceptionally fun, as I was dressed in SWAT gear! haha I spent quite a bit of time talking with one of the SWAT policemen, and... he dressed me up.

That bullet resistent (not bullet PROOF) vest was HEAVY... approx. 25 pounds. I wasn't going to run in it. And the silly hat made
me feel a bit like a bobble-head. Needless to say,
rediculous looking or not, I had a blast at the
SWAT car, tank thingie.

The Flight for Life is ALWAYS exciting, but today was a busy day for emergencies. The 11am arrival had a real emergency so couldn't show up... they moved the 1pm arrival to noon, but then they had an emergency they had to finish with so showed at 12:45. Just when everyone started looking at the helicopter (the highlight of the Open House) and talking to the flight crew, they had to leave for another emergency.

All in all, I had a great time wandering around.

A Compliment!

2008-06-01T12:21:00.005-06:00

A short while ago, while sitting in the sun at a local coffee shop (I treated myself to a rare decaf carmel latte), as I was waiting for a friend... a man at the next table started talking to me. "Are you waiting for someone?" "Yes," I replied, "A friend." "A woman friend?" "No, a man friend." He was a quite inquisitive, and then asked if I would mind talking about love and grace until my friend arrived. I told him that I really didn't have much to say, as I was lacking love in my life, and lacking grace too for that matter.

Anyway, we talked for a bit... mostly about books... and my friend showed up.

When I was getting up from the table to leave, this mystery man started talking again. His parting words were several, but what sticks out most in my head (other than, "If you don't want to go to work tomorrow... don't. Find a way to not have to go.") is:

"You grace the sun beautifully."

Let's just say I was shocked, and even though he was a bit... eccentric... his words and the genuine look behind them made my day! People just don't say such things to me. Wow.

Thank you for that, Mystery Man.

Quote of the Day

2008-05-19T20:39:00.001-06:00

"A woman without a man is like

a fish without a bicycle."

Cat Sitting... (whatever it's called)

2008-05-19T07:34:00.012-06:00

One week down, one to go.

I've been dropping in every-other day on a coworker's two cats while he's traveling on business since last Sunday when he left. The two cats are Tank (reddish, stripped male), and Slick (all black female).

I thought this would be enjoyable, and relatively easy... excluding the fact that I have to drive there after work, I'm severely asthmatic (especially when there's cat hair all over EVERYTHING! The TV, the counters, the carpets, the chairs, the blanket, EVERYWHERE), and I don't think I'm getting paid for doing this. Though I'm going to try and work this out, as what has transpired over the past week wasn't expected by me, warned by him, etc. It's been a bit of a nightmare, actually.

Just a couple things... they knocked over a heavy wooden chair, his guitar, the DVD player and cable box from above the TV (they may now be broken and not work at all), found their treats... opened, emptied, and ate the entire jar, vomited on the carpet (was it the treats? Maybe not, I've since found out that cats just do this), and yesterday was my major freakout...

I walked in, greeted Tank as I usually do, and noticed bird feathers all around the foyer area, and in the living room too. This couldn't be good, as they don't have a kitty toy that's like a bird. I started to panic and look around and I found a dead bird lying in the middle of the bedroom floor!!!!! O... M... G! Still, more feathers strewn about, and a glob of blood on the wall.

If you know me at all (and, well, if you don't), I am NOT "a cat person." In fact, I had pet cockatiels for 22 years, and I am passionate about pet rats. NOT CATS. This poor little bird probably had the most terrifying end to her (yes, it was a her) life, and I was angry at the cats, and felt badly for the bird. What if she was a mama bird and has a nest full of eggs somewhere nearby? Geesh. It was apparent that she got in through the window he left open a few inches that doesn't have a screen! Um, who doesn't have screens on all of their windows, and WHY not? His deck is completely screened in, but his bedroom window is not? WTF? Moving on...

I won't bore you with the details on how I gathered myself and the poor little bird. I will say, however, that all Tank and Slick got during that drop-in (complete w/ surgical mask due to my asthma) was more food, new water, and a "Get away from me you bird killers."

I did not clean up the blood, or the feathers. The other day I attempted to clean up the cat vomit, but there's still a large spot, and the next time I'll be leaving it there. As far as I'm concerned, I'm going above and beyond feeding / watering, and a little bit of playtime and petting. And, if they knock anything else over, that's how it stays.

I'm about to say FUCK IT and see if I can find someone else at work who is able and willing to take care of Tank and Slick for the upcoming week, as I am just not feeling very "bright and cheery" about it anymore. And I was really trying to like them... *sigh*

Shitheads.

New Air Filter... Meaning... a Trip to Checker!

2008-05-11T21:04:00.006-06:00

This weekend was meant for lots of errand running, and, some vehicle maintenance on Elvis.

Yesterday, I took him and had an oil change, complete with new oil filter... 1,000 miles early. Am I on the ball or what?!

And today I did one of my favorite things... went to Checker Auto Parts because I belieed it was time for a new air filter. I've been reading that if you change your air filter frequently enough (I forget... it's either every 3 or 6 months), it helps considerably with your vehicle's gas mileage. Yes, I admit, this was my main motivation for my trip to the auto parts store... this time.

I'm not as accustom to Elvis' engine as I was to my previous car, Barney's, but it wasn't difficult to find where the air filter was... just a few clicks of some clips, and there it was.

Note: It's a MUST to do all of this hood-popping and engine-fiddling in the parking lot of Checker, mind you. It's easy to fit in with all the other "dudes" and their open hoods there to buy this and that. Not to mention the looks you get, like, "I wonder if she actually knows what she's doing," and the occasional, "Do you need any help?"

When I pulled out the air filter... EWWWW! I've had Elvis for 1 1/2 years now, so that's AT LEAST how old this air filter was. (See pic...) It had dirt, dust, leaves, cotton wood spores, tiny branches... you name it, it was in there. This couldn't be good.

Needless to say, I bought a brand new shiny white one, popped it in, and drove away. I think I even heard Elvis say "Thank you," over the sound of my music as we drove away.

Last week, I adjusted my tire pressure as well, making sure that all four (4) tires were at 35psi. This too should help w/ my gas mileage. And, on nice days, I'll be walking or biking to / from work.

Greyhounds!!

2008-05-08T19:47:00.007-06:00

I LOVE GREYHOUNDS, particularly these two girls... Azrael (white), and Maeve (black).

A coworker / friend of mine was dogsitting, catsitting, and birdsitting for a week, and these were the dogs. She asked me if I wanted to come see them (even though I'm severely allergic to all these mentioned animals), and since I love dogs so much, I said, "Of course!" We took them on a few walks that week, and what a wonderful time I had with Azrael and Maeve. (Look they are smiling too. hee hee)

Azrael took an immediate liking to me which which was awesome... she just loved it when I showed up. Maeve, however, was very skittish and shy and didn't warm up to me completely (when off the leash anyway) until our third and final walk last Saturday morning.

I miss these two girls and I hope to be able to visit / walk them again sometime. If I could, I would run out and get myself a rescued Greyhound, just as these girls were.

P.S. I also groomed the cockatiel that looked a bit neglected and was quite in need of wax removal on his crown, and a good cleaning / sanitizing of his water and food bowls. His crown is now standing upright and he somehow seems to know he's much more handsome now. :)

Clever...

2008-04-26T06:29:00.001-06:00

http://fc01.deviantart.com/fs13/f/2007/077/2/e/Animator_vs__Animation_by_alanbecker.swf

New Lifestyle

2008-04-13T06:47:00.007-06:00

Back in January I started a trial membership at 24 Hour Fitness. The goal? I need to lose the fat that has taken up residence around my midsection! I'm small boned, and most of me is considered to be "skinny," but my middle has become a bit, well, chubby. "Muffin top" anyone?

Needless to say, I went to the gym often during my trial membership and ended up joining. I was going about four times a week and now it is down to about two or three. (I took a three week "break" due to not feeling well and needing to take a "stress test," per Doctor's orders.)

I'm going to the gym again, which I don't enjoy, but, I've now been able to quantify some results! These results came due to my change in diet. (Thank you Dr. Oz... and You: On a Diet.) I haven't even embraced everything there is to know yet, I've merely cleaned out my cupboards and fridge / freezer of all the "bad things" and basically started over... eliminating only five ingredients from what I eat.

This sounds like it's not that difficult, but when shopping for pasta sauce with no sugar, it can be a challenge. Or, finding 100% whole wheat bread without one, or sometimes two of the key ingredients I shouldn't be eating, that's even more of a challenge. Yes, grocery shopping does take a bit longer now, and it is also more expensive. The payoff, however... I have seemingly lost nine pounds! Nine pounds in less than two months... hooray! In fact, more like one month or so.

There is a mystery however. Where is this weight coming from? I still have the same size belly / waist! And, well, my bras fit the same also. haha Thank goodness it's not coming from there!

Now, mixed with working out, I hope to be able to SEE more of a difference in my body's appearance, other than just the happy feeling of weighing myself. It should be easier now to continue going to the gym and eating better now that I know it makes a difference in my weight... overall body fat... even if I cannot see it just yet.

Along with all of this EATING BETTER means, making stuff at home. And, well, I don't cook. I've shown an example of how I was eating if I made something for dinner at home (see casserole picture above... loaded w/ cheese, hash browns, cream of mushroom soup, etc.), and how I am eating at home now (Capresi... tomatoes, basil, fresh mozarella, and balsamic vinegar). I had the capresi last night and it was delicious! Not to mention, it filled me up just fine.

Onward... and may the progress continue!

"Man Flees Home Half Naked to Evade Mouse"

2008-03-27T06:15:00.001-06:00

What a weenie...

Wed Mar 26, 2:14 PM ET

BERLIN (Reuters) - A man in Germany fled his home half naked for cold, snow-swept streets to escape a mouse in his living room, authorities said on Thursday.

"He said there was nothing he was more afraid of," police in Goettingen said in a statement.
After an emergency call in the early hours, officers in the central town found the 23-year-old wearing only his boxer shorts and slippers at a phone booth near his home.

The man told police he had seen the mouse scurry across the floor while he was watching a film, and had fled immediately.

Police failed to track down the animal, but told the man it was safe to go home. He went to relatives instead.

(Reporting by Dave Graham)

About Holden

2008-03-22T08:03:00.016-06:00

I'm finding it extremely difficult to write my goodbye to my little (well, not so little) rattie man Holden, so edits may be made as different memories and such come to mind.

My best rattie friend, Holden, passed away early Wednesday morning. This is the last picture I had taken of him, taken three days before he passed... over last weekend when he became critially ill. (He was lying on my end table next to my couch... he made it clear that was where he wanted be). Maybe the cold slate felt good to him... I'm not sure.

I became Holden's Mom in August of 2006, when he was about 3 months old. It was love at first sight for us both. He had a tough first couple of months with me... including two surgeries. Holden had to have surgery to have a small cyst removed from the side of his face, requiring a few stitches which made him look like a "tough guy." And, as I didn't want Holden to live a life alone, and I had four rattie girls at home, and boys that wouldn't get along, I had him neutered. Then, he would be able to be introduced to and live with four girls. What a lucky guy! He healed up nicely, introductions went well, and he moved into a large cage with Gwen, Abby (I miss them a lot), Peanut, and CareBear. They all eventually passed on and he lived alone for a long while. I then introduced him to my rattie girl Izzy, that went wonderfully, so Izzy moved in. They were like two peas in a pod and very happy together. Then, just under one month ago, Izzy became ill quicly and passed away in my arms. Holden was grieving for his loss, but he was eating / drinking, and we were having lots of playtime.

Last Saturday morning, Holden seemed to be quite ill, but I wasn't certain if it warranted a trip to see Dr. Bock or not. As I have a lot of antibiotics and such at home, I started him on meds and yogurt (all he would eat, and only by licking it off my finger). As the weekend progressed, so did Holden's illness. He began sleeping in his cage beside my bed Saturday night... so that I could check on him easily, and I was coming home during lunch (earlier this week) to check on him as well.

Monday night when I got home from work, Holden was much worse. I called Dr. Bock (who's office was closing in about 5 mins. when we got off the phone). After hearing everything about what's going on he told me to come in right away, and Dr. Bock stayed at his clinic along with one of his Vet Techs. Holden had an exam, got a shot (B12) and two other meds (albuterol to help him breathe easier, and something to help slow down his heart rate as it was working too hard) via syringe down the throat... and he was in critical condition, but we were all hopeful.

From then on, Holden was kept in my bathroom w/ the vaporizor on... to try and assist his breathing... and also to keep him away from the rest of my "furkids." I was checking on him throughout the night and getting up at 4:30 in the morning so I'd have plenty of time to hold him / spend time with him before work.

Tuesday morning, Holden stopped eating his yogurt (which had his meds in it). He had also stopped drinking. (Over the weekend, I had started mixing Pedialyte in w/ his yogurt to try and help him with electrolytes and such.) This was a bad sign... once a rat stops eating, the situation is dire. When I got up Wednesday morning, Holden was in even worse shape... could hardly hold his head up for any length of time. I was watching him closely and had nearly come to the decision to take him to Dr. Bock during "drop-off" time and be there to help Holden pass away peacefully and calmly. This is the most painful decision for me to make for my pets, it hurts me so much I can barely function, but sometimes it's something I must decide to do, for my love of them. With Holden, however, the time came where I had to make up my mind for certain if we were going to get there early, and I looked at him and couldn't do it. I told him, "One more day, Holden... let's see about one more day."

I got ready for work in a hurry, as now I was going to be late, since I had a change in plans. I got ready so quickly I had 20 minutes to spare... 20 minutes to spend with Holden. I lifted him from his cage and we sat on the bathroom floor. Within five minutes of me holding him, he started gasping through his mouth, with his teeth clacking together. This, I know, means that he is starting the process of passing away. I started to cry and talk to him, I knew there was no turning back, that I was about to lose my Holden. A part of me, however, was relieved that he would be passing in my arms, where I could comfort him during his last moments. (Though this is extremely painful for me, I'm convinced it is helpful for them / him.)

We moved to the couch and he managed to climb up to my shoulder / neck, like how you hold a baby sometimes. This is where he wanted to be a lot of the time when he was sick over those few days... I'm not sure why. Maybe it was easier to breathe? Anyway... I held him there like a baby, petting his body and his head, rubbing his ears (something he LOVED... he'd close his eyes and just lie there), talking to him quietly, and crying. His gasping become slower, yet more labored, and I could feel his heartbeat (which had been beating really hard and fast since he became ill ) slowing down with his breaths. Then, 35 minutes after I picked him up out of his cage, at 7:46am Wed. 3/19, he took his last breaths (which I felt on my neck and broke my heart even further), and passed away.

I sat with him and held him for a while, then I wrapped him in a piece of his favorite blue terrycloth, and took him to Dr. Bock's office for cremation. Dr. Bock was visibly upset with the outcome, I think his heart broke a little too.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Holden, life here at home is not the same without you. You were the one who would greet me with your big eyes, at the side of your cage, when I'd arrive home. You were the one that I would greet first thing in the morning, and the one I'd hold everyday when I got home. You were the one I'd let walk on my kitchen countertops when I was getting food ready for the rest of the ratties. You were the one I'd talk to, like you actually knew what I was saying. *half grin* Because of those "talks," you knew all my secrets and such.

I miss seeing / feeling your whole body go limp... like a ragdoll in my hands, as I gently grabbed you to take you from your cage. You'd do this everytime... limp as can be. I miss hearing you / watching you eat your treats of dog biscuit. I miss your super soft fur and how good you smelled... like berries, sometimes more like grape kool-aid. I miss watching you waddle down the couch as we played... with me trying to coax you to run. I miss saying your name. I miss holding you up in my hands in front of my face, just to look at you and give you a quick smooch on the top of your head, as you looked back at me questionably. I miss your ears, and how you'd lie there and relax with me as long as I'd just stroke your ears and pet your head.

I miss your hands, how cute there were and how dexterious. Not to diminish my other rattie friends, but I had a special bond to you. You, Holden, were to me like a dog is to other people... just a teeny tiny one with a long tail that lived in a cage until I let him out. (Rats do have a nickname of "palm dogs," and that they can very much be.)

Holden, I miss you so very, very much. There are moments when I wonder if you took my smile with you, but then I'll realize it's still here, I'm just using it less often. You are forever here with me... (and I'll be holding on to your favorite toy ball). Thank you for choosing me too.

Love, your Mama

R.I.P. Holden (Approx. May 2006 - March 19, 2008)

2008-03-20T06:19:00.006-06:00

I lost my dearest rattie boy resterday as I held him on my shoulder / neck (comforting for him) at 7:46am. I cannot yet bring myself to post my last picture of him (taken this past weekend when he was very ill), nor write all that I feel in my heart about him. Maybe in another couple / few days...

In the meantime, for those who read this and think that my very painful loss is "silly," or "no big deal:"

JUST A RAT

It's just a vermin, just a rat
Just an animal, lazy and fat
Just get over it, just get another
It's not like it's your son or mother

Fools around me speak in shame
Never knowing my rats name
They roll their eyes, they dub me weak
They treat me like my loss is cheap

Just someone standing by my side
When life brings on its bumpy side
Just someone with whom to chat
My love, my friend, my family, my rat

Written by Chuck Beast

Do You Get This?

2008-03-14T19:48:00.005-06:00

Today at lunch with friends / coworkers Kathy and Amanda, we saw the following bumper sticker on an SUV in front of us. It appeared it was being driven by... a man. All three of us pondered but couldn't figure out what this sticker meant... but were amused nonetheless.

"Dip me in honey

and feed me to

the lesbians."

Do you get it?

Resting / Recouping

2008-03-07T06:22:00.005-07:00

Yesterday, a good friend of mine, my buddy Duane, had to have one of his kidney's removed. Duane has, as he calls it, "two cancers for the price of one." He had a tumor in his right kidney (now gone), along with a recurrance of Lymphoma... for the 4th time. Now that his cancerous kidney has been removed, he can recouperate back to normal and then begin his treatment / fight against his next bout with Lymphoma.

Thanks to Duane's brother... his friends and I were kept aprised (via Duane's "cancer blog"), on how he was doing throughout the day / night.

I am SO relieved that everything went alright and Duane is resting in the hospital, complete with a "pain pump." Ahhhhh, morphine! I bet this is the most sleep / rest that Duane has had / will have in a long time.

Duane, as you know, my thoughts and prayers are with you for a speedy recovery. I'm looking foward to talking to you when you feel up to it. Take care of yourself!

"I love you man."

Newbies!

2008-03-05T20:30:00.005-07:00

Here are my two newest little ratties that have been unexpectedly added to my home. They are two month old little girls, one is hairless, the other is a capped dumbo.

I rescued them both from a local pet store. The hairless had a bad case of the sneezes and was not being treated. She had been in quarantine (normal procedure when bringing new rats into the home with existing rats), on medication. I had planned to introduce her to my neutered male, Holden, who recently lost his cagemate (Izzy), and that did not go well. He bit her on her neck during their first meeting in neutral territory. Needless to say, they won't be rooming together. I then had to get her a cagemate, so I went and rescued another very small girl who was in a plastic bin being held in the back of the same pet store, waiting to be put out onto the sales floor. (I'm against purchasing rats from pet stores as a regular practice, but sometimes it must be done, as they needs homes too!)

So, here are my new little ones. I'm still working on names for them... it's either Daisy and Tulip, or Lucy and Ethel. I'll have to watch them interact with me and each other a bit more, to get more of a feel for their personalities, before I decide for certain. They will need names very soon though. I think Lucy and Ethel may win out... I'll just have to figure out who's who. tee hee

These girls are the teeniest, tiniest little ratties. They fit into the palm of my hand! It will be fun to watch them grow up.

*Please ignore the dirty linens in the top picture. The meds she was on were giving the poor thing diarrhea. :( I'm working on getting the condition cleaned up (and the cage has been).

The Anti-Christ (with a Side of Hot Guys)

2008-03-02T18:53:00.002-07:00

What the fuck am I thinking?!?

(And it's only been about a month... ugh, and ouch!)

Something that Lifted my Spirits

2008-02-23T22:44:00.007-07:00

Today has been a shitty day, though it was topped off by meeting my favorite comedian, Daniel Tosh! (Despite the fact that the person I was going to see his show with bailed less than an hour before the doors opened, I went to the comedy show alone and had a great time. I needed the laughter.)

I cannot stand this picture of me, but Daniel is such the hottie... a very nice guy... and I probably won't get to meet him again, so it's a keeper!

R.I.P. Izzy (Approx. October 2006 - February 23, 2008)

2008-02-23T01:52:00.005-07:00

My dear, tiny little rattie girl, Izzy... aka "Dizzy" Izzy, or more commonly, Izzybella... just passed away in my arms 15 minutes ago. I hope I was able to be of some comfort to her in her last moments here on earth, as it was difficult to watch her go through.

I could tell she wasn't well early in the evening, I could see the signs. Then, when she wasn't eating her favorite puffed wheat cereal, and she was walking poorly, I knew the end was near. She was also breathing harder than she normally would and felt a bit chilly... especially her tail. I kept checking on her and trying to keep her warm, and she wasn't getting any better.

I fell asleep on the couch for a couple hours, and then when I woke up I checked on her again, and she was looking even worse, so I took her out of her cage and held her. I held her and talked to her and tried to comfort her... until she passed away on my lap and craddled in my arm while I was petting and holding her.

She passed fairly quickly, and it was seemingly painless... though she was obviously frightened... as was I.

I handed her to her cagemate, Holden, for a final goodbye, which was something else that was difficult to watch. (Most people don't know this, but when rats lose their cagemate / lifemate / sibling, etc., they grieve like people... so a "final goodbye" is very important when one passes. I'll have to watch Holden closely for any behavioral changes related to grieving.)

Anyway... Izzy was my special little girlie rat. She had a neurological disorder, which is part of why I took her home with me. Other than her "ticks" and walking in circles (until moving in with Holden... then that part went away), she was a normal rattie who made me giggle and smile all the time. I couldn't hold her freely, as I do my other rats, as she didn't have good balance and with her "ticks" would thrash about sometimes... but I made up for it with my hands inside the safety of their cage playing with her. And sometimes by sitting in an empty bathtub and playing with her there.

Izzy, have fun at The Bridge, (where all of the other animals... and my other ratties... go / have gone when they pass). Eat all the puffed wheat and vanilla yogurt that you want! When you were here with me, you always seemed like you were having fun, and looked like you were grinning... it was in your eyes. I hope that's how you are now, but free from your challenges and the infection that took your life. I will forever remember your little hand always reaching out to hold my finger, and the adorable way you'd grab... run with... and hold onto any treats as you'd eat them. I love you and will miss you so very, very much. You will never be forgotten.

It's Not about Politics... Go Ahead, Say "Thank You."

2008-02-18T06:21:00.002-07:00

http://www.gratitudecampaign.org/fullmovie.php

I'm all for verbally saying thank you to those in the military (and I do as I run into them), however, I like "the sign" as well. I'd imagine this meaningful gesture would be especially helpful for the more timid, when on the go, or even together with a mouthed "thank you."

Unlikely Friends!

2008-02-17T06:34:00.000-07:00

One of the cutest, most touching animal videos I've seen:

http://www.slide.com/r/hD6DvyAOxD9ClUhvUpVcUMABW9QzpGnQ

2008-02-14T10:22:00.002-07:00

Valentine's Day Sucks!

Appetizers, and More Appetizers

2008-02-14T06:04:00.004-07:00

I forgot to turn on the flash before giving the camera to our waiter, Jon. GRRRR!

Anyway, this was my evening out to dinner with "the boys" on Tuesday... downtown. Look at all those appetizers! They were soooo delicious, we were all full before our dinners even arrived. Hooray for leftovers!

Tom: next to me in the dark, Me: Skippy: across from me, and Greg.

Toys? Who Needs Toys?

2008-02-07T20:16:00.000-07:00

I do, I need toys!

MY NEW TOY!! My 4MB iPod Nano... it is rocking my world, after just one day of use so far. I'm looking forward to adding more and more music to it, and maybe even a video or two, but that will have to wait for the weekend.

(Thank you for your help in finding this one, Dad!)

Interesting Facts About Colorado

2008-02-03T12:14:00.000-07:00

Things you may not have known about Colorado:

1. The highest vertical climb is not on a mountain but up the north side of the Black Canyon. Rising 1,700 feet, this sheer rock face is even higher than the famous Diamond on Longs Peak and was not conquered until 1969.

2. In 1899 Crested Butte recorded 254 inches of snow near the top of Kebler Pass. That year, snow buried a train near Leadville and left only stove pipes showing above cabins at many mountain towns. Usually, Wolf Creek Pass near Pagosa Springs gets the most snow in Colorado.

3. Leadville is the highest (10,200 feet) incorporated town in Colorado and the entire U.S. It has also had the highest rate of premature babies in the U.S. Researchers concluded that the altitude causes smaller babies.

4. Delta, south of Grand Junction, gets less rain per year than Tucson, Arizona.

5. Winds blowing around the Great Sand Dunes near Alamosa create sounds resembling music. That's how Music Pass above the dunes got its name.

6. Colorado was the second state in the U.S. to give women the right to vote. Wyoming was the first. (You would think the eastern states would have been more progressive, but it took the frontier adventure to make men realize how strong and intelligent women were.)

The Lord's Prayer?

2008-01-26T09:23:00.000-07:00

A new take on the Lord's Prayer... as recited by a four-year-old in Sunday School.

"And forgive us our trash baskets as we forgive those who put trash in our baskets."

(I read this somewhere and it cracked me up.) =)

"A Fairy Tale"

2008-01-22T05:38:00.000-07:00

One day, long, long ago, there was this woman who surprisingly,

did not whine, nag or bitch........

But this was a long time ago.....
and it was just ONE day.

The End

About Lolita... the Killer Whale

2008-01-20T17:45:00.000-07:00

Lolita the killer whale is only performing one show a day now. This could be because she is getting older - or because Miami Seaquarium wants to direct attention away from her.

LOLITA'S STORY:Lolita is a killer whale in a tank so small, its illegal to marine park standards. Its only one and a half times the size of her body - she often runs into the walls during shows. The tank is no larger or deeper than a hotel swimming pool. Its only 35 feet by 80 feet for a 22 foot long whale. She has been in this same tiny tank for more than 30 years.

She has no company. Wild whales choose to stay with their families for life, never leaving thier mothers' sides. Lolita lives all alone though. She can be heard crying out for her family between shows and at night. She shows signs of angrer by slapping her tail, snapping her jaws, refusing to do tricks, and starving herself.

Lolita has zero shade from the burning hot Miami sun. She also has no protection at all from the dangerous and frequent hurricanes that hit the area. Electrical wires and cords are strung up all around her tank - also very dangerous. Her tank leaks very badly underneath. The tank is held up by several rusty pipes. Algae and fungus have grown under and in the pool. The tank's filter has broken numerous times.

Lolita's tank is loaded with chlorine and other chemicals, which irritate her soft, sensitive skin and eyes. Her tank is sub-standard in almost everyway.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON LOLITA, PLUS HOW TO HELP VISIT:

- http://www.orcanetwork.org/

- http://www.dolphinproject.org/

- http://www.orcahome.de/

Something must be done to help Lolita, and all of the other animals who suffer from this, and all other forms of animal cruelty.

"King of the Rats"

2008-01-16T07:40:00.000-07:00

Posted on Yahoo News today:

PARIS (AFP) - Fossil hunters have uncovered the greatest rodent that ever lived -- a one-tonne behemoth that bestrode the swamplands of South America some four million years ago.

ADVERTISEMENT
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The newly-identified species is the greatest-known member of the order Rodentia and by comparison makes the biggest rodent alive today, the 60-kilo (132-pound) capybara, look like a pygmy shrew.

The skull of the extraordinary beast was found in a broken boulder on Kiyu Beach on the coast of Uruguay's River Plate region, palaeontologists reported in a study on Wednesday.

Measuring a whopping 53 centimetres (21 inches), the skull has massive incisors several centimetres long.

Despite this fearsome look, the creature was not carnivorous and looked more hippo-like than rat-like.

Its small grinding teeth suggest it had only weak masticatory muscles for chewing food, and probably tucked into soft vegetation, fruit and squidgy aquatic plants in deltas, the experts say.

Its food intake must have been vast, given its huge size.

Other denizens of this world of marsh and forest would have included sabre-toothed cats, flesh-eating birds and armadillos.

The newly-found species has been dubbed Josephoartigasia monesi, in honour of Alvaro Mones, a Uruguayan palaeontologist who specialised in South American rodents.

Authors Andres Rinderknecht of the National Museum of Natural History and Anthropology and Ernesto Blanco of the Institute of Physics in Montevideo say there are several ways to estimate J. monesi's size.

The ranges run from 468 kilos (1,029 pounds) to 2.5 tonnes.

But, they say, the most reliable figure is an average of 1,008 kilos (1.008 tonnes, 2,217 pounds) which is derived from comparing the giant to its closest living relatives, called hystricognath rodents.

The previous rodent record-breaker, Phoberomys pattersoni, was found in Venezuela in 2003 and was estimated at 700 kilos (1,540 pounds) in its prime.

The study is published by Proceedings of the Royal Society B. The Royal Society is Britain's de-facto Academy of Sciences.

This is pretty interesting and all, but I don't think it's a rodent I'd look forward to running into. YIKES! I'll stick with my smaller, cuddly ratties... whether they be furry or fur-less. :)

Looking Forward to...

2008-01-12T10:29:00.000-07:00

... seeing Daniel Tosh perform his comedy show next month.

SO EXCITED!

Random Laughter

2008-01-01T10:13:00.000-07:00

Said by some chick on E! channel this morning...

"Her husband is so hot, I'd boil his boxers and make tea."

Re: Victoria Beckham's husband, David.

Knobs... Knobs... and More Knobs!

2007-12-31T16:36:00.000-07:00

I have had 11 days off for the holidays, and on Saturday I decided to get in touch with my "inner handyman" and tackle my long-awaited project of adding knobs to all of my kitchen cabinets and drawers. I had been putting this off because I really wasn't sure how to go about doing it, but then I saw an episode of "Take Home Handyman" Saturday morning, and he (Andrew Dan-Jumbo) actually did a segment on how to do this!

For Christmas I got some cash (thanks Ma!), which was to go toward buying knobs... so I then had no reason not to make this home improvement. It took quite a while, as I had to get the placement and marking of the template just right, then mark the location, punch a dent in the wood, drill a hole in all the cabinet doors / drawers, then go back and put all the knobs (24) on.

Here's the outcome... before and after pics. I'm so glad that I took the time to get it done! I love it!

Santa was Good to Me!

2007-12-25T07:50:00.001-07:00

Make your own Zing!

Egg Nog?

2007-12-22T16:31:00.001-07:00

Call me crazy, but, I KNOW that Egg Nog is NOT supposed to look like this when you pour it into a glass!! OK... so I decided to try the lactose free variety and buy soymilk nog. "How bad could it be," I thought. After all, I switched to soy milk (vanilla flavor) a few years ago, and it really wasn't bad at all. (I have since switched to vanilla rice milk, but that's beside the point.)

On the carton is says to "Shake Well." After seeing what looked like a runny version of cottage cheese come out of the carton... whilst my taste buds were oh-so-ready for a large gulp of egg nog... I shook the carton like I've never shaken a carton before. I then repoured and what I got was just a more thickened cottage cheese-like drink. Just watching it pour made my taste buds change their minds and my stomach turn, but I decided to give it a taste.

I'm not typically one to beat around the bush, and I won't here. This shit sucks! It doesn't taste, smell, look, or feel ANYTHING like egg nog. I hope my drain likes it, because that's where the entire carton is going.

I'll go out and get the real thing tomorrow. Well, almost... it will be the reduced fat version. :)

Happy Holidays

2007-12-19T05:44:00.001-07:00

Merry Christmas... or if you'd rather... "Bah Humbug!"

http://www.scroogeyourself.com/?id=1526336324

Snow... FINALLY!

2007-12-09T17:28:00.000-07:00

Today turned out to be a beautiful, sunny day after a couple of days of light snow.

My doggie friend Draco and I had a nice walk... with Draco sometimes pushing his nose through the snow (see his slight snow beard), and me taking some nice pictures and breathing the clean-smelling air.

I had been wondering if we were ever going to get snow this winter, and now we have. Yay!

Carrie Sings Skid Row!

2007-12-05T18:10:00.001-07:00

My cousin passed this along (he was the drummer in Skid Row), thinking it was cool. Very much so!

Best DUI Ever

2007-12-05T18:08:00.001-07:00

Shame on her... fucking with a drunk guy like that. haha

Yes, it is from "Reno 911."

If...

2007-12-02T05:52:00.000-07:00

If you can start the day without caffeine,

If you can get going without pep pills,

If you can always be cheerful, ignoring aches and pains,

If you can resist complaining and boring people with your troubles,

If you can eat the same food every day and be grateful for it,

If you can understand when your loved ones are too busy to give you any time,

If you can take criticism and blame with out resentment,

If you can ignore a friend's limited education and never correct him,

If you can resist treating a rich friend better than a poor friend,

If you can conquer tension without medical help,

If you can relax without liquor,

If you can sleep without the aid of drugs...

...Then You Are Probably The Family Dog!

Karma Quiz

2007-11-17T20:42:00.000-07:00

yIntoHeaven.com - Online Karma Test Click Here!
Amy, Your Karmic Alignment is: Zen Intuition!

Score: 19 You have a direct perception of truth. You are very keen and don't use it to take advantage. When you commit positive deeds, you don't do them to get ahead, you do positive deeds simply because it makes you feel good. Your intentions are almost always meant well and all this positive karmaic energy is bound to come back to you in a great way!

I'll be waiting!

This About Sums it Up

2007-11-17T20:08:00.000-07:00

From the song... Settlin'(by Sugarland)

"Fifteen minutes left to throw me together

For Mr. Right Now, not Mr. Forever

Don't know why I even try when I know how it ends

Lookin' like another

Maybe we can be friends

I've been leaving it up to fate

It's my life so it's mine to make"

Chorus:

"I ain't settlin'

For just getting by

I've had enough so-so

For the rest of my life

Tired of shooting too low

So raise the bar high

Just enough ain't enough this time

I ain't settlin' for anything less than everything..."

(This may be part of why I'm still single.)

Surgery - POSTPONED

2007-11-15T16:32:00.000-07:00

Due to an unforseen medical emergency in my family, I have had to cancel / pospone tomorrow's surgery. Everything has turned out alright, though I am emotionally exhausted at this point... after being stressed out and worried about my own upcoming procedure, and then being informed of the medical "situation" of someone I love.

Everyone is now at home resting, finally... including myself. I am more than relieved and feel as though I should say... thank you God.

Stay tuned, as I'm sure I'll blog again about my nerves and such once I reschedule.

NAP TIME...

Surgery

2007-11-12T21:01:00.000-07:00

This posting will be short and to the point... as I'm tired and need to try and get some sleep.

I'm having hernia repair surgery at 7:15 Friday morning, and I'm SCARED!

The fact that I've had two open-heart surgeries and major back surgery doesn't take away any of my fear. *sigh*

My Celebrity Look-alikes

2007-11-09T10:30:00.000-07:00

So, this is just hysterical. This is based on a picture of me from 2004, when I thought that platinum blonde was a good look for me. Looking back, I was soooooo wrong. BUT... look at my lookalikes! Maybe I WAS a blonde bombshell!?

Perhaps I'll go back. JUST KIDDING!

*Some more break-time fun.

Chills and Tears... AMAZING

2007-11-07T10:13:00.000-07:00

I cannot figure out how to imbed this into my blog! Here's the link...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLF9iEXnBRo

I must hear this man's voice regularly. I cannot wait to get his CD... Amazon.com, here I come!

*I was on break...

Demand for Pet Rats?

2007-10-30T05:59:00.000-06:00

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20071028/od_uk_nm/oukoe_uk_rats

I'm a bit weary about this new "demand," for the same reason that is mentioned in the article. ..."as with demand for pet puppies and kittens that can fade once the cute factor diminishes with age..." I remain hopeful that this does not happen with pet rats and they find forever homes once they go home with someone.

Night out on Pearl Street (pre-wedding)

2007-10-26T03:27:00.000-06:00

Above from Left: AC, me, Caleb, and Merlin

LIFELONG FRIENDS!

The Corner Bar, Boulder

Above from Left: Merlin, me, Jeremy (Amanda's Brother),

Amanda (Caleb's fiance), and Caleb

New Friends

Connor O'Neills, Boulder

Thank you, AC, for not taking a vertical shot here! hahahaha

Parting Ways

2007-10-25T05:58:00.000-06:00

Last night was very difficult, as I surrendered my three longtime companion cockatiels to a parrot rescue in Mead, Colorado. This was an extremely difficult decision for me to make, but I believe it was the best one for both me and my birdies.

They were creating a huge amount of "bird dust" in my home that isn't good for my lungs / asthma, and also made my place look like it had a powdery coating on everything all the time... despite using a huge HEPA filter and humidifier 24/7, and misting them with water often. I wasn't paying as much attention to them as they need, wing and nail trimming is costly when you have to do it as often as you should if you want them to come out of their cages and not fly around / away, and they are very noisy little birds.

I've had Sophie (top, pearl) and LeStat (middle, yellow-faced grey) for over 10 years... they are a mated pair. And I got Phil (bottom, white-faced grey) about seven years ago. I've found myself shouting at them often to "shut up!" as they would screech and make their loud bird sounds (not to be confused with their singing... I loved to hear that). This was especially tiresome during the weekends when I was home and it was common for them to be noisy ALL DAY LONG, and in my small condo, it all just got to be too much.

At their new home, they will be living with approximately 100 other birds (split up into two different aviaries)... nine of which are cockatiels. They will be slowly integrated and when ready, their cages will be opened and they will have a life of free-range birds! They will be able to meet other birds, become part of the flock, find a mate (Phil!), and perhaps Sophie and LeStat will meet others as well... though I really hope they stay together. They will be able to fly around freely, no more wing trimming! And... they will be fed fresh veggies / fruits daily... which they won't eat for me, but was told they will eventually. (It seems that once they become part of the flock, as the others gather around the fresh foods, curiosity will get the best of my three and they will eventually eat it as well.)

My condo sounds very empty this morning, minus the good morning chirps that I've heard everyday for over 20 years of having cockatiels. Their place in my dining room is empty, with no cages to uncover. This afternoon will be difficult as well, as there will be no loud chirping when I get home from work... their ever-present greeting to me after I've been gone.

I plan to go visit them, but I will miss them dearly. I already do...

(These pictures were few of the many I took their last night at home with me.)

Mystery Bouquet

2007-10-15T20:53:00.000-06:00

Saturday morning when I opened up my curtains, I saw these beautiful lillies (?) wrapped in a huge bouquet on my patio table! This is the fouth time I've had "mystery flowers" left on my patio. The first was one red rose, and I never found out who left it for me. The second was a single sunflower, the third... a small bunch of sunflowers... and now these.

The second and third were left by my friend / neighbor, "T," that he had picked while on a walk. Once it was a reasonable hour on Saturday and I could call him, I was able to verify that he was indeed the one who left me these flowers as well. What a perfect way to put a smile on my face and start my day!

Thank you, "T!"

My Decorating Continues...

2007-10-06T07:17:00.000-06:00

I got some curtains for my livingroom! I love 'em, they are a nice change from the up/down Hunter Douglas shades that came with my place when I bought it. Very cozy for winter I'm thinking... though they are thin and not lined. (I didn't want fancy drapes... these are perfect.) Next will be for my bedroom, but I have to wait a while. My spending spree will catch up with me if I'm not careful. (Especially after splurging on my new 37" LCD flat screen TV. Love it!)

Thanks, Ma, for hanging out and helping me with this project. For ironing all the curtain panels (on my kitchen counter, since I don't have an ironing board)... and for showing me all the important tidbits I need to know when hanging a curtain rod.

About Being Alone...

2007-09-27T21:09:00.001-06:00

"It's much better to be alone and successful

than it is to be in a relationship

and feel like a failure all the time."

"Meredith"

Grey's Anatomy

This was said during tonight's Season 4 premier episode, and it's something that I need to remind myself of during those times when I'm bummed about not being in a relationship. It is SO true, and I know this in my head... it's my heart that doesn't get it sometimes.

Gettin' up Early...

2007-09-23T07:04:00.001-06:00

... 5:30am, typically. "Even on weekends?" many
ask me. You bet! Then I get to see incredibly vibrant sunrises like this one this morning.

Then there is the fact that the neighborhood is silent and motionless, except for the stray dog-walker or two. And of course there's the happy birds who are singing outside.

Ten years ago (maybe even five) I never would have imagined I'd turn into a "morning person," but I have, and I love it.

Welcome to Fall!

BEER!

2007-09-14T21:46:00.000-06:00

Oh... how I've missed you!

It's been 10 long years...

Testosterone = TROUBLE

2007-09-09T08:19:00.000-06:00

These two brothers are a handful. They are getting along well, not as much rattie boxing... arguments... and squeaking, as there was for several months after bringing them home as babies. They must have worked out which one is the alpha rat.

They love to have playtime on my couch with me (with a shower curtain and sheet on the couch of course), but they are also very independent and curious which can get them into trouble if I leave them without supervision. Especially Caleb (top photo)... who will use any way possible to get down off the couch or end table. He then hides under the couch and will not come out, even though he knows his name! Hardy is a better listener, and when he's followed Caleb into trouble (Peer pressure, it's a tough thing... even amongst rats. haha), at least Hardy has returned when I called him.

Anyway, these are the last two of my five rattie's updated pictures. :)

PEACE, BABY!

2007-09-06T21:34:00.001-06:00

Peace must be in my genes, as it appears that I've had a liking for peace signs since I was a little girl. How fun this was to see... after receiving a box of old pictures from my Mom a few weeks ago. Some things never change. (I also have a peace sign tattoo on my ankle. Go figure.)

July 2007

Approx. 1973 (6 yrs. old or so)

"PEACE OUT..."

Four Things...

2007-09-03T09:58:00.000-06:00

... that you cannot recover.

"The stone... after the throw.

The word... after it's said.

The occasion... after the loss.

and...

The time... after it's gone."

Something I thought about today.

"Thanks Bush"

2007-08-31T07:19:00.000-06:00

Planet Boulder - By the Numbers

2007-08-26T20:09:00.000-06:00

I read an interesting article today in Boulder Magazine, and it was talking about the ways in which Boulder has changed over the last few decades. I found the following statistics to be interesting:

1. Now, in 2007, there are 44,000 protected acres of land in Boulder's Open Space. (144 miles are maintained by the Open Space Mountain Parks.)

2. The median age in Boulder is currently estimated at 31.5.

3. In the year 2000, the median family income in Boulder was $70,257. They didn't have the numbers available for 2007...

4. The median price for a single family home in Boulder, in 2007, is $540,000.

5. If you make $41,700 / year or less, that is considered to be "low income" in Boulder.

And, lastly...

6. In 2005, over 70% of Boulder citizens hold a Bachelor degree or higher. Again, they didn't have the numbers available for 2007...

They also mentioned the percentage of Hispanics living here in Boulder (8.2% in 2000). I am very curious as to why they did not mention the percentage of any other "non-white" group living in Boulder. Could this be because the numbers are so low? Because Boulder is so prominently white, and non-diversified? This, I will say, is the only thing I don't like about Boulder... lack of racial diversity.

I still LOVE it here, and hope to always call it home.

2007-08-14T19:04:00.000-06:00

I love this picture!

Me and my friend Jess at Boulder Resevoir last Thursday. (Not bad for a photo taken by Jess... a "self portrait" of sorts.)

There is now another photo (link) of some of my party fun provided by my friend Richard in the comments. Thanks, Richard! ha!

Thank you Dr. Suess

2007-08-14T06:50:00.000-06:00

Once in a while I see / read the most simple of things, and it helps me through.

Be who you are and say what you feel,

because those who mind don't matter,

and those who matter don't mind

~Dr. Suess~

Did you have a Mullet too??

2007-08-12T11:44:00.000-06:00

Me... 1984 (Junior in High School)

Rockin' my mullet and lots of eye makeup... haha

Yes, that IS a Michael Jackson button... from his "Off the Wall" album... on my jacket's lapel.

"Fighter, my "Runt" House Finch - (UPDATE)

2007-08-12T07:41:00.000-06:00

Here's Fighter, all grown up! (You can see her picture(s) of when she kept being kicked from the nest, and I kept putting her back in... posted previously.) Once all of her siblings flew from the nest, I was fairly certain she would not survive alone in the nest she was repeatedly being kicked out of. So, I took her to Greenwood Sanctuary, where she was raised the rest of the way... from incubator, to indoor aviary, to outdoor aviary (once she could fly and find food on her own), and she was released in Berthoud, CO in July with several other House Finches from the sanctuary.

I'm so happy that I made the extra effort to try and save this little darling's life... as she ultimately DID live, as you can see here. =D THIS was why I named her Fighter... I could tell she wasn't going to give up easily... she just needed a helping hand.

I hope her life with her new birdie friends in Berthoud is a long and wonderful one!

Me? Outdoorsy?

2007-07-29T18:14:00.000-06:00

What a fun Sunday afternoon I had today!

I was invited to brunch with my friend / neighbor "T," and his friend from San Diego, Trent. We went to a local "greasy spoon" and had your basic eggs, toast, etc. They were a bit hungover, which of course was entertaining to me, as I was feeling just dandy.

From there we went to a local reptile / fish store. This was a first for me... as I wouldn't think to visit such a store. I was right, there were many snakes there, mostly large snakes... and it's funamentally a problem for me to be near them, as they eat those animals that are near-and-dear to my heart. :/ The fish, however, were amazing, as were all the turtles, frogs, coral-type plants, crabs, snails, tadpoles, and more exotic creatures that live in water. There were also lizards, and I've decided I really like Bearded Dragons. I'd consider getting one, but they seem a bit fragile where their habitats are concerned.

After we got back home, "T" needed to take Draco for a walk, and decided it would be fun to take Trent down to Boulder Creek for the walk. I was invited along was deciding whether or not to go when Trent said, "What else to you have to do?!" Good point... so, I went. Another first for me... going to Boulder Creek. (The drive over was amusing on it's own... Trent driving "T's" truck, when he's not used to a standard transmission... me in the passenger's seat, and "T" in the jump seat giving directions. hahahaha "Park there, no no no... you can't park there... back up, go around that circle and park back there.") It was like being on our own little mini-road trip vacation, complete with lots of giggling.

OK, so I've lived in Boulder since 1978, yet I've never been up to the very West end of Pearl Street to a parking lot near a place called "Settlers Park." And I've never been on the bike path that crosses over Canyon Boulevard and Boulder Creek, over to what's called Eben G. Fine Park. It was a bit of a walk from where we parked (not at Settlers, it was full), but it was beautiful... the park was filled with all sorts of people doing everything from reading on blankets, to frisbee, to picinics. We then hiked west along the banks of the creek... for quite a bit it seemed... until we got to the upper part of the rocks / rapids where the water became more still, and you could wade there as people slowly floated by on their inner-tubes... to the next bunch of rocks / rapids.

We hung out there and waded around in VERY chilly water. Even Draco hung out in the water along with us, and he made friends with a little tiny MinPin that was adorable.

I have to admit, I had a blast hanging out up there. It was a lot of fun hanging out with "T" and Trent, the three of us people watching and talking, and getting Draco some exercise as well (along with myself). Maybe I will be fortunate enough to do this again sometime... maybe even alone with a book.

P.S. I even ate some sort of tiny apple (crabapple Trent said) off of a tree that was growing beside the bike path. I was afraid to eat it, as it was growing in the wild and all, but I did it anyway. One word... SOUR!

My Lone Girlie

2007-07-26T05:50:00.001-06:00

To continue with my updated furkids photos, here's little Izzy. Dizzy Izzy I most often call her. A friend of mine helped me rescue her from a less than ideal situation at PetCo, and a probably worse one had I not taken her home.

Izzy is special... she has a neurological problem which causes her neck to go up and back really far as she interacts with me (from the safety of her cage, which is where she's most comfortable), and when she's hanging out in her cage doing what ratties do. She also walks in circles most of the time, like a pattern, and she's not very steady on her feet. Other than those challenges, she's a perfectly happy and normal little girl rat. LOVES her dog biscuit treats, and her Total cereal. hehe She is one of the most gentle little ones I've had as well... never even a tasting nip.

Last night I started the process of introducing her to my neutered and very gentle boy rattie, Holden. They are both living alone and are lonely. (Rats are not meant to live their lives alone, they need at least one companion.) I have put this off because I've worried about her "problems," and how this would work with another rat... but, it's time to try. So, the three of us spent a half hour in the bathtub last night (neutral territory), with the two of them being introduced. It went so well that we will be proceeding with the process tonight. Since Izzy hasn't been with another rat since she was weened, she doesn't know how to reciprocate with grooming, but she sure loves to be groomed by Holden. He "power groomed" her at one point, and after a couple of small squeaks from her, she completely relaxed and her eyes closed. Wow! This from a rattie who only relaxes when she's sleeping, otherwise she's walking in circles and jerking her neck all around. Being around Holden also caused her (I don't know how / why) to walk in a straight line, from one end of the tub to the other, following him around! Wow again! She'd follow him and when he'd stop, she'd rest her head on his. The cutest thing!

OK, so I'm very excited about all this, and very happy that it seems they enjoy each other's company and should be able to move-in together within the week or so. I still have to supervise playtimes for now and make sure he is gentle with her (he's 2x her size), and that there's no aggression shown from one to the other.

Anyway... here's updated Izzy!

Happy Birthday to Me

2007-07-22T17:30:00.000-06:00

Today is my 40th birthday, and honestly, I'm having a difficult time with it. I keep hearing from women... and the occasional man... (both that I know and don't know who are over 40), that this will be the best time in my life. Hrmph! I really don't see what could be so wonderful about it. Being 40, single, never married... what is so exciting and "wonderful" about that? Haven't my chances of ever getting married, of finding lasting love, of becoming a "DINK" rather than a "SINK," just dropped dramatically?

According to a Newsweek article mentioned today on CBS news, "Marriage After 40? Not Impossible!"

"The 1986 (Newsweek) article predicted that women after 30 only had a 20 percent chance of getting married. For women over 40, those chances plummeted to 2.6 percent." Excuse me, is that 2.6%??? There seems be good news now, in 2007, for those of us who may still exist and WANT to get married. "So the good news is that for a woman over 40 who is single, she has a 40 percent chance of getting married." OK, 40% still doesn't make me jump for joy, but it certainly is better than the original 2.6%.

My Mom wrote something in my birthday card that I hope is true. She wrote that everything up to now in my life "has just been training," and that my new "journey" into my 40s will be the best part. She has turned out to be right about most things, as I look back at what I should have listened to, and I hope she is right about this.

On to something fun! We celebrated this big birthday last weekend, at The Reef piano bar here in Boulder. I had family, some friends, and some friends / coworkers there to help me celebrate. We all had an amazing time... laughing, singing, drinking, and eating. (See pictures...)

Note: I haven't done the whole drinking alcohol thing in 10 yrs. now, but about a month ago I had some wine at a wine tasting at The Boulderado with K&J, and then at The Reef I drank several gulps from "the fishbowl" drink that was sent to our table (by one of the pianists), and a shot of Yager that a pianist ordered for me... of which I sipped half and gave the other half away. I did catch a buzz and my headache reminded me why I don't drink anymore. hahaha

Me too...

2007-07-14T09:33:00.000-06:00

"I am someone who is looking for love,

real love.

Rediculous, inconvenient, consuming,

can't live without each other love."

"Carrie"

Sex and the City

Sooooooo Cute and Cuddly

2007-07-13T06:16:00.001-06:00

Here's my most recent photo of Holden (I took new ones of all furkids). Holden is my most mellow and cuddly rattie. I don't think he could be any cuter. He is my little buddy... :)

Tidbit: Holden smells like grape Kool-Aid. haha

Priceless

2007-07-08T12:23:00.000-06:00

ET: "Hi Mama, what are you doing?"

Caleb's 2nd Place Finish!

2007-07-06T06:13:00.001-06:00

Back in May, I entered my Caleb into an "exotic pocket pets" type photo contest, sponsored by Heavenly Heart Gerbilry. (You don't have to be a gerbil to be in the contest... but I believe you do have to be a rodent.)

Caleb came in 2nd place. Woo Hoo!

Thank you to everyone / anyone who voted for him. =D He's just too cute eating his honeydew!

Hair Streaks!

2007-06-30T15:47:00.001-06:00

Something new and different... a few "foils."

LOVE my blonde streaks! =D

Gettin' Out on the Town

2007-06-28T19:22:00.001-06:00

Last night my coworker / friend Kathy (see bus pic above) and I went to the Farmer's Market (THE Boulder thing to do it seems), and then to "Band on the Bricks" on the Pearl Street Mall. What a great time I had!

First, I haven't taken one of the city buses (Public transportation? Moi?) since 1985 when I was in High School! These buses sure have changed... no more hard seats, more more shouting "NEXT STOP PLEASE!" You now pull a cord and a LED board lights up that says "Stop Requested." The driver also "announces," though inaudibly, each stop that approaches. One thing has not changed... the drivers still seem a bit grouchy, bordering on disgruntled. Relax, sheesh... all you have to do is drive a bus all day / night!

We walked to the Farmer's Market and it was more fun than I expected. (Yes, I was a Farmer's Market virgin.) Even though I'm not into buying produce, it's fun to look at it all and sample whatever people have to share. Then, after walking around, it was time to go to the prepared food area and get something to eat. So many booths / food types to choose from... most with very LONG lines. I chose a huge berry smoothie, substituting mango for banana. It was non-dairy with no ice... PERFECT! :) Kathy had a Spring Roll that actually looked pretty good. Sucks that she had to eat and walk though, as we had to get over to the mall.

We arrived in front of the Courthouse just before 7pm, and grabbed a great place to sit... which turned into standing... which then turned into dancing. I've seen Hazel Miller about five times now, and this was the first time I've seen her with her funk band, singing dance music. The bass player played some really groovy basslines that had me dancing through several songs. The entire block was packed with people... people of all ages, from toddlers to geriatric folks in wheelchairs. Everyone dancing, singing along, and having a wonderful time.

They played for a couple of hours, then it was time to hop back on the bus and head back home.

I would definitely do this again... GOOD TIMES!

"Flown the Coop"

2007-06-25T18:43:00.000-06:00

As of today, all four of the healthy / grown fledgling birdies have flown the coop and moved on. They were 15 days old today, and I'm sad and happy. It was great fun having them here, outside of my front window, for all that time... even when they were still eggs.

I took the fifth little bird, who I've named "Fighter," to the Greenwood Wildlife Rehabilitation Sanctuary yesterday. "He" still wasn't moving along as quickly as the rest, and was still being kicked from the nest. When I checked on "his" condition last night, he was doing fine... in an incubator and eating plenty. He should be out of quarantine in a few days, (and if all continues to go well, and he continues to eat and grow), they will then "give him some buddies" to live with during his stay. The goal will then be to release him when it's time.

I'm happy beyond words to know that I saved this little birds life... literally... and more than once. A wonderful payoff. :)

Does Anyone...

2007-06-25T06:46:00.001-06:00

... even read my fucking blog??? I receive no comments, no nothing. I think I'm going to retire this blog soon if things don't change. Why keep writing and posting my pictures if no one is reading, or cares enough to even post comments? *sigh*

And, yes, I do write my blog for me... it's my journal for the most part. However, getting comments sometimes motivates me, shows me another side of thinking, makes me laugh, or in some cases... pisses me off. All of these are better and more beneficial to me than nothing being said at all.

What a Face (Feels So Good)

2007-06-24T08:58:00.001-06:00

Some of my quality time with Draco. (While his Dad was at work...)

Comfort Zone... In or Out?

2007-06-22T06:01:00.000-06:00

Wednesday night I went to a Jazz Showcase here in Boulder. It was the 25th anniversary of a jazz trio that I cannot remember the name of. OK, so I'm not what one would call a "jazz fan," so I didn't know the trio's name in the first place.

My friend / neighbor invited me to come by and hang out... as he was working the event. This is really why I went, because he invited me.

All day I was reconsidering... this was something that was way out of my comfort zone. I find it difficult to go out to "events" alone. I feel like people feel sorry for me, are looking at me, that I look pathetic, etc., but I went anyway. After all, how am I going to meet anyone if I don't go OUT?

I arrived early, got a great seat / table, and people watched... took in the whole scene. For dinner I had Butternut Squash Ravioli with Grilled Asparagus, Sage Butter & Freshly Grated Pecorino Romano. YUM!!! It was soooooo good. So good in fact, I had forgotten I was alone while I was eating.

Coincidentally, I ran into my 2nd cousin and her Dad! He was visiting from CA, so I haven't seen him in a few years. I also saw someone that worked where I do, and now does some consulting-type work with us from time to time.

Anyway, I'm glad I went... I stayed for about 3 hours... and I can honestly say, I'm still not a "jazz fan." I NEED LYRICS! However, I'd most likely do it again.

Thank you, "T," for the invitation. =D I enjoyed getting a glimpse into what you do, and watching you work as I relaxed and listened to music. hehe

Outcast Bird - Take Two

2007-06-21T17:46:00.000-06:00

When I checked in on the birdlings before work, the "runt" bird, the smallest of the bunch that had been kicked out at 3 days hold, was seemingly kicked out again today, at 11 days old. Grrrrr Either that, or while moving with his / her siblings from one nest to the other (as they are more mobile now), it got sidetracked and stuck under some of the flower stalks alone... where it couldn't move and wouldn't have been fed.

Once again, I went to extreme measures to get the little bird out from being stuck, and put it into the nest that was currently empty (as everyone else was in the other one). When I came home from work at lunch, I was happy to see that "Fighter" as I've named this bird, was back into the nest with everyone else.

This little bird is still smaller than the rest, but I'm hoping he / she will catch up at some point before they fledge and fly away... and will do just fine. *crossing fingers*

Baby Bird Update - Day 9

2007-06-21T17:44:00.001-06:00

All fuzz and feathers now... no more little pinklings.

Outcast Bird... Oh no!

2007-06-17T07:04:00.000-06:00

At three days old, this poor little bird (still pink and not even the size of my pinky finger... eyes still closed) was shoved from the nest either by the Mom or the siblings. Apparently this happens if one is smaller than the rest, may be ill, cannot feed them all... which in this case I have now confirmed is five babies, etc.

He was on his side at the edge of the flower basket, still alive, but not for much longer if he wasn't in the nest. I'm glad I climbed up to check on them when I got home from work.

Anyway, the wildlife people suggested putting him back into the nest. WHAT?? ME? USING WHAT, MY MAGICAL POWERS? No, I was to use my hands and pick up this fragile, tiny being without hurting him (or myself by falling off the chair), and place him into the nest. Good Lord... I was nervous. I did it though... I scooped the bird up carefully, though I was shaking, and carefully placed him with the others. WHEW! Then I was told to watch and see if he's ousted again, and if so, the wildlife folks would come by and take the poor little thing.

Great news!! (When I found the outcast birdie, the others had all turned the more natural dark color, but not this one.) Now, seven days later... even the outcast has turned dark in color and is growing bigger (though still a little smaller than the others) and eating along with everyone else. He / she did not get shoved from the nest again, and is now growing like his siblings, and Mom and Dad bird are feeding all five! And wow do they making their "cheeping" noises when this happens. It's endearing.

Hooray, it seems I saved this little birds life! Next exciting / scary thing for the babies... attempting flight.

P.S. It's a myth that if you touch a baby bird, the Mother will abandon it. Birds do not recognize the smell of humans on their babies. I admit, knowing this allows me to pet their little heads once in a while, though I mostly leave them alone.

Baby Birds - (2 days old)

2007-06-11T19:35:00.001-06:00

How cute are these two hungry baby birds?! I disturbed them and I think they thought I was "Mom" or "Dad" and had some food for them.

At one point, there were a couple more open mouths, but I didn't have my camera. DARN!

Just Hatched!!

2007-06-10T06:51:00.000-06:00

As of yesterday, mid-afternoon, all of the eggs that the House Finch layed in my hanging flower basket's nest had been hatched! There were four or five, I could never quite tell for certain without disrupting their home. Now there are four or five brand new... delicate (the most delicate little things I've ever seen!), helpless, baby birds piled up and staying warm... either in the sunshine, or underneath their Mom / Dad.

Can you see the one stretching his / her neck up out of the bunch? And another one's beak below?

I will be taking LOTS of pictures as they fledge and then fly off on their own.

AMAZING!

P.S. Speaking of birds... you rock, Richard!

Saving the bird that was trapped in your fence. :)

RIP Steven... my Friend

2007-06-04T20:57:00.000-06:00

At 10am this morning I found out from my boss, that my friend (and also coworker), Steven, passed away yesterday. We've been working together for over five years now, and have become close friends over the past couple / few years or so.

Steven had been battling Pancreatic Cancer, and he lost his battle. He fought this battle with the spirit of which I have never seen from anyone before. He was undergoing his third different type of chemotherapy, and was still coming to work, until last week. Yes, he worked until one week before he passed away.

I knew that this horrible disease would take Steven's life, as did he... however, no amount of preparation / expectation could lessen the shock, pain, and grief of when I actually heard the news... the news that he was gone.

He passed painlessly and quickly, after being taken off of life-support. His family was with him, and he was lying in his wife's arms when he left this world. This is of some comfort to me, though it is still hard to believe I'll never see him, hug him, or talk to him again.

Steven... thank you for the archery lessons, the debates on hunting, for letting me call you "Weeven," for teasing me about the "new" country music I listen to vs. the "old" country that is the good stuff you liked, for your crazy Converse Chuck Taylor sneakers, for letting me "interecept" calls from your wife so that I could talk to her too, and most of all... thank you for being my friend. I'll miss you...

New Paint!

2007-06-03T08:38:00.000-06:00

My new paint / colors ("Brick Red" and "Toffee Crunch"). I'm so happy with the results... LOVE IT!!!

Expecting Babies

2007-06-03T08:19:00.001-06:00

Two birds... House Finches I believe... have nested in my one and only hanging flower pot, just outside my front door.

Shortly after the perfectly round nest was made (which is just amazing to me), there were five eggs in it! I've been watering very carefully, just around the outside edges, as to not get the nest / eggs wet, but to continue to offer a nice home for this little bird family. As I watch these birds, the male and female make a great team, ("Dad" sits on the edge of the planter keeping watch, and "Mom" sits on the eggs).

I can't wait until the babies arrive! It's been since May 26th or 27th that the eggs were layed... I wonder how long until they hatch??

Pneumonia

2007-05-25T06:36:00.000-06:00

Due to being down for the count all week long with a case of Pneumonia (pre-empted (?) by a Bronchial Infection last week), there has been no update on my painting project.

Last weekend, my condo did get painted. I mostly sat around taking care of my 9 month old Nephew (due to being ill), while K&J did the painting. They will be coming over again tomorrow to give the darker color it's 3rd and final coat, and finish up some of the detailing. Again, I will be babysitting "G," since I'm still recouping and need to continue resting. This sucks, because I would prefer to be more of a help with the actual painting, rather than feeling like a slacker!

My "job" for the week was supposed to be getting more paint, some additional supplies, and finishing up the "cutting in" work that is necessary. This obviously hasn't happened, since I've been home all week (out of work even)... in bed or on the couch. :(

I'm looking forward to tomorrow... getting this project finished up, my things put back where they belong... all thanks to having more help than I'd ever expect. Thank you again, K&J!

Thank you also to "S" , Tom, and Ma... for bringing me food and keeping me company here and there while I've been ill.

Painting!

2007-05-19T06:47:00.000-06:00

Despite the fact that I'm battling a Bronchial Infection, and have been for 4 days now, I'm going to paint my condo today! My youngest Sister K, Brother-in-Law J, and my Nephew are coming over this morning after G's swimming lesson and they are going to help me get this done. (THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH K&J!!!)

I've been wanting to paint the livingroom, diningroon, and kitchen since I moved in... that was two years ago. It just seemed like such a daunting task for me to tackle on my own, so I have kept putting it off.

Despite all of my coughing, and my "Demi Moore" (yeah, right!)... more realistically my boy-going-through-puberty voice... we're going to get this done today. Wooo hooo! =D No more plain, boring, blah white walls everywhere!! *jumping for joy*

Well, I better make sure I have put that lovely blue painter's tape on all the trim, countertops, cabinets, etc., and make sure all my shit is together before they arrive.

I'll post some pictures of the finished product, for anyone who may be curious about what types of colors I've chosen. hehe (If you know what types of colors I like to have my nails done... then you may get an idea. And if you don't know... it's not pale and subdued.)

Vote for Caleb!

2007-05-07T12:16:00.000-06:00

I have entered a picture of one of my handsome boy rats, Caleb, in a "exotic pocket pet" Photo Contest for the month of May. There's some stiff competition it seems, (especially with Hank, the rat in photo #7, who is pulling ahead in votes quickly)!

Please vote for Caleb... he's photo #1!

http://hhgerbilry.com/gerbilshow1.html

You can vote once a day... please keep voting!

Dog Walking!

2007-05-05T08:05:00.000-06:00

My next door neighbor / friend, Tom, has a dog named Draco. He's a rather large dog... part German Shepard, part I forget. He's getting up there in age, though I cannot recall (geez, am I having memory issues this early in life?) how old he is, but I think it's around 12.

If you know me, you know that I have a severe allergy (asthmatic) to dogs and cats. This REALLY sucks for me, since I'm an animal lover, and I especially love dogs... and my ratties of course, which I'm also severely allergic to (but they are caged and the dander is minimalized, etc.).

I recently asked Tom if it would be alright for me to take Draco for a walk sometimes, and he said YES! For the past week, I've walked Draco almost everyday... either after work (if Tom worked the evening shift), or during my lunch (if Tom worked the day shift).

Tom thinks I'm doing him a favor... I don't think he realizes that he's actually doing ME a favor. With being able to walk with Draco, I am able to spend some quality time with a wonderful dog... petting him, talking to him... and at the same time, we're outside where there's no dander / saliva / dog hair buildup. After our walks, I sit with him on Tom's patio or mine, and Draco and I hang out for a bit. (Draco doesn't usually like to go right back inside, which is clear as he stares at the open door. haha).

After my "Draco time," I must wash my hands really well. If I don't I may get hives, and my eyes will definitely get all red and itchy if I accidentally touch them. And I think the antihistamine that I take daily helps a little as well. :)

The happiness this brings me in indescribable, and I hope Draco enjoys it as well.