Live Your Dog's Life

It's about Dane time.....

2008-03-15T11:40:00.004-04:00

Hello all! Remember me? Yes, it's been a while since I have written. Since our last talk I have remodeled my friends list, rennovated my marriage, and found my passion (or two).

Last year was a rough one in the personal department but I have since overhauled and made the proper changes and better than ever! Moving along to my passions....

Tribal fusion belly dance....superior muscle control, snakey fluidity along with pops and locks. I love the music, I love the look and feel. I just love it. Take a look....this is Rachel Brice. Amazing, amazing, amazing.

Along with dancing, I have been volunteering at the Great Dane Rescue of South Carolina. I started last Friday at 10am in the pouring rain. I didn't really get to spend time with the dogs because, well, rain is not conducive to a good play environment. So, it was all business that day. However, I returned the next day with my husband. Three others showed up to help with doggie doodie (pun intended) which freed me up for play therapy! Woo hoo! At the end I walked away just as dirty as I had the day before, but with a smile on my face as wide as the dog's!

Much to my dismay, I had to take a few days off at the rescue so I could make some money. I work Sunday-Tuesday nights at the hospital with the human babies. This week’s work was frustrating. The unappreciative parents and hostile attitudes are getting old. I’m also tired of the hostility between the staff. It’s so sickening to ask someone to do their job and have eyes rolled and teeth sucked. At least the dogs are appreciative of the kindness they are receiving at the rescue. Dogs do smile. I’ve seen that wide open ear to ear grin everytime I rub an ear, scratch a back (right over the tail please!), and throw a ball.

I returned to the rescue Wednesday morning after work. After my experience on Saturday and hearing how happy the dogs seemed afterwards, not to mention how well they slept, how could I stay away?

I brought with me some donated sheets that are much needed to make beds and mudrunners between the indoor kennel and outdoor run each dog has. We performed our cleaning tasks...scrubbing water bowls, sweeping, remaking beds, examining toys and replacing as needed, and pooper scooper-ing. There was another volunteer there also so I got to play a bit with the babies.

On Thursday I brought a friend who is also a masseuse. She also massages animals and put her hands to good use while the owner and I cleaned. At the end of our visit, while we were getting the tortoises out to their play area, I asked the owner of the rescue to please pick a dog she thought would be appropriate for Jaime and I to foster.

Honestly, did you think I could go to an animal rescue and not end up with one of those sweet creatures in some way, shape, or form???? I think I just heard all of you collectively say, "NO!" She chose Mukai. Mukai is a very big, yet very sweet, gentle, and submissive 18 month old surrendered by his vet tech owner. He also brought hookworms, heartworm, and a cowering disposition.

Jaime and I picked Mukai up for a car ride and a walk last night. Jaime met him once before on his Saturday session at the rescue and I have played ball with him and his yard mate, Sirius Lee, each time I've gone to clean kennels. I have to say, the first day we met he wasn’t super interested in me. Perhaps the rain that day distracted him. Now, he seems to trust me and loves leaning and getting his backside scratched! He takes a break from that long enough to chase a ball or graze on some grass. Last night he took right to us and our car ride and walk went wonderfully. I can't imagine anyone ever harming him or any other animal. It's really disgusting to me.

Today we are taking our boys out for a meet and greet. They are resting up right now and have even bathed for the occasion. I'll keep you posted and I'm sure I will have new pics and stories soon!

P.S. Angus, an 11 month old Harlequin owner surrender, had to have emergency surgery for an obstruction. His Demodex (skin mites that can be controlled but act up under stress) is flaring horribly and he has several open sores on his neck and hip. They can be treated but he has to recover from his surgery first.

His vet bills were $3000! A fund has been set up and we are still in need of donations to help pay his surgery off! Please click on the Angus Fund and help us help Angus!

Mukai!, here we come!!!!

Suck da head..um, how does the rest go?

2007-04-01T18:31:00.000-04:00

One farmer's tan, 2 beers, a plate of BBQ, and a good bit of socializing later, and I am so glad I didn't listen to Debbie Downer who said, "This is really a kid's thing and we decided to leave. How do we get out of here?" Um, the way you got in and do you mean to say all that beer and reggae music is for the children? Hmm...children's parties have come a long way since I was a kid.

I am not one for crawfish and fried gator but I did make it out to our Lowcountry Cajun Festival. I am not sure how authentically Cajun it was but I did see some "sucking da head and pinching the tail" all while drinking Yuengling and enjoying the sounds of reggae. Maybe some of you from the actual Cajun area can tell me just how authentic our festival was. Personally, I think it's just one big excuse for people to get together, eat, get drunk, and feel cultured(??).

Well, I have to say I enjoyed my 2 beers and plate of BBQ. We (me and hubby) went by ourselves but wound up meeting friends whom we haven't seen in quite some time. Not only did we see new and past co-workers, but we finally met our friend's baby who was born NINE months ago! I KNOW! BAD friends! But, you know how it goes...you leave your phone at home when you are by their house and you don't want to go over and risk waking a new mom, blah, blah. Thankfully that hasn't been held against us!

Anyway, thanks to all of our friends that were out and for this girl and her daring fashion statement! Yes, that would be a halter top and bra (with tag hanging and all). I missed getting the picture of the lady with the salmon colored jersey knit stretch pants with the eyelet cutouts at the ankle (I suppose maybe I can cut her some slack for she did have a cast on her foot..though it was removable!) and the Grateful Dead guy with the tye dye shirt that was spinning like he was his own Tilt-A-Whirl ride at the fair. What's that saying? It takes all kinds.

And the winners are...

2007-03-29T17:24:00.000-04:00

If you are looking for internet love here are some of your choices. I am so glad that I am married.

" My interests include motorsports such as snowmobiling, cars, and mechanics. "

His keywords? Colt 45, Corrections, Vodka

Corrections? Is that like correction facility?

I didn't even bother looking at his description of himself. I couldn't get past the shirt.

What?? This guy is still available?

I can't believe I didn't hold out for him. Especially after he describes himself as "Mysterious." That's it..one word. Now you wanna drop him a line, right?

I really hope his friends did this for a sick, cruel joke.

"Wild guy who enjoys life. I work hard but also play hard. Enjoys dancing the weekend and working out after work. I'm looking for people to party with on the weekends or go to a few games/movies with. Think you can hang?"

Gee, I don't know if I'm up for the challenge. His requirements are pretty extensive.

*sighing and shaking head* Ch-Ch-Ch-Chia! I am sure he is a nice guy. All I know is I saw "adolescent boy" in his description and moved on.

Thanks to LittleFluffyCloud for pointing me in the direction of HotorNot for a bit of a laugh. I don't mean to make fun of people but really what are some of them thinking???

Someone to keep you up ALL NIGHT...

2007-03-23T23:48:00.000-04:00

It was time to fill that void again. But with whom? I was getting lonely and longed for a new roomie.

I checked out the bidders. There were several. Oh choices, choices. As a Libra, sometimes I have a bit of trouble.

Finally, I chose based on the fact that this "20-something, country music lovin', NASCAR watchin', animal savin' girl from the lovely state of Maryland" and I have a few things in common. Awesome! I am 20 something, I have family from Maryland, I have friends that LOVE country music, my husband loves watching NASCAR and I often lose him and one of my girlfriends to the races, and I LOVE animals (um..I have 2 Great Danes and 4 cats and donate to our SPCA and other animal rescuing organizations).

We also shared a moment on Saturday when she was fighting for a prime spot at a Kenny Chesney concert and I was pushing my way through internet traffic to get top real estate at a Godsmack concert.

Welcome! From what I understand you have a nice rack too (click here to preview). Hey! Another thing we have in common! SWEET!

2007-03-21T22:31:00.000-04:00

13 of My Guilty Pleasures

1. Marble Slab Ice Cream--Chocolate Swiss or Birthday Cake with Heath pieces...yum! I especially like it after we go out for Mexican.

2. Mindless T.V.--America's Next Top Model (especially the marathons on Vh1), My Super Sweet Sixteen (oh what I could do with the money the waste!), The Hills, The Simple Life --I don't watch these on the nights they come on, I usually catch them on when they are reruns.

3. Handfuls of JellyBellies. I do not keep these in my house b/c I will eat them until I am sick!

4. Dance/Techno/House Music. Yes, in my mp3 player right now you can find Britney, Amber, LaBouche, Gina G., Samantha Mumba, 4 Strings, The Real McCoy, Moby....

5. Celebrity gossip mags. I don't buy them but I certainly read the ones that are laying around work. Hey, sometimes when the kids are sleeping you gotta fill your time somehow!

6. The E! Channel. This channel is what got me into "Melrose Place." Now I like "The Girls Next Door."

7. A cold beer after work before I hit the hay. I know it's 8am but that's MY 8pm..plus it's occasional.

8. Teen movies--"Bring It On", "Clueless", "Drive Me Crazy", "10 Things I Hate About You", "Not Another Teen Movie", "She's All That", "American Pie"...you get the picture

9. Lifetime T.V.--which my brother so senstively refers to as "The Wife Beater Channel"...sorry if that offends anyone but I found it funny when he said it. Something about Sundays in my big chair and a Lifetime movie.

10. Paying bills. I feel accomplised when I do it. I suppose it's not something that is typically "guilty" or "pleasureable", but I feel so good when I do it so I that's why I classify it as a "guilty pleasure."

11. Peanut Butter M&Ms. I have been known to eat a whole bag by myself in a 12 hour shift at work...and not an individual sized one either. I'm talking the big size party bag!

12. The way Ambien makes me feel right before I fall asleep. A bit of a buzz, off to sleep, and no hangover!

13. Checking out people's medicine cabinets or underneath their counters in their bathrooms. Not sure why, but I have been known to take a quick peek.

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A Cry for Help

2007-03-20T20:58:00.000-04:00

Tylenol Overdose. The diagnosis of the week it seems. In the past two nights, I have had taken care of 2 boys who have felt desperate enough for attention (love? help?) and used this method to gain it.

Where is the breakdown in communication between parent and child that causes the child to down 10,000mg-15,600mg of Tylenol at once in order to gain attention? Is that even the reason?

In the past two nights, I have had TWO boys with Tylenol OD. Of course, this buys them large bore IVs and IV fluids, multiple lab draws to watch for liver damage, clotting factors, and drug levels in the blood, stomach pumping if it JUST happened, a charcoal slurry if they came in a couple hours within taking the pills, and last but not least MORE pills (liver protectants). If the Tylenol level is high enough in the bloodstream the IV fluids will be replaced with an IV infusion of the same liver protectant.

The attention doesn't stop there. Not only will the medical doctors be visiting often but psychiatrists will make a pit stop, nurses will be coming in the room every hour. ALL of us ask the same question, "Do you want to hurt yourself?" "Do you have plans to hurt yourself?" Oh, and being alone is never an issue. If parents can't stay, then a sitter is provided to watch every move made.

After being cleared medically, the patient is then sent to the psych hospital across the street. There they will enjoy a journey into their mind by one on one sessions and group therapy. Who knows..I'm not a psych nurse, but I'm sure there is some form of self expression activity such as drawing or writing.

I am not going to lie and say I haven't made sarcastic comments about the Tylenol overdoses but I do find it truly sad that these children think they have to take these desperate measures to get the attention they are starving for. Not attention that says "Look what I can do" but the kind that says, "HEY, look at me I'm hurting and if you aren't going to listen to my words, hear my actions!"

However, I am glad that is was "only" Tylenol and not sleeping pills, antidepressants, etc. Also, it reinforces the fact that I am very grateful that my parents were easy to talk to and gave me plenty of POSITIVE reinforcement as I grew up. As socially inept as I sometimes felt, I knew that I still had self worth because my parents (especially Mom) helped me to build my self esteem on talents and skills I had, NOT attention from others.

Quittin' nursin'..gonna be a Groupie!

2007-03-16T22:08:00.000-04:00

Last night...ROCKED!!! Breaking Benjamin, Three Days Grace, and Nickelback under one roof!?

The night started at La Hacienda around 6pm. What better way to start the night than with Mexican food and beer? My husband and I met a couple friend of ours..no wait, just my girlfriend showed up b/c...oh yeah..that's right...her husband went to "watch the opening bands" (who didn't start 'til 7 ). So where was he? Believe It or Not, BACKSTAGE!!! Why can't my dad work there???

Anyway, I enjoyed my chips and salsa and 2 Dos Equis (haha..I had dos Dos Equis..anyway)..I'll bet my friend's hubby didn't get THAT backstage. So there.

After we hooked up with another couple we all knew and Feelin Way Too Damn Good, we took The Long Road to the venue. We left tickets for another couple friend of all of ours (they were going to be late) at will call. See You At the Show !(or maybe not..wrong tix got left..long story for a different day).

Three Days Grace was setting up. We missed Breaking Benjamin thanks to my 2nd Dos Equis. Dang it! :-(. Anyhow, Three Days Grace was not Painful at all, but Nickleback about had me Flat on the Floor! There is nothing like seeing Chad Kroeger wail on a guitar. He can really move those fingers (NOOO! Naughty thoughts!!). His voice is amazing...inspite of the beginnings of laryngitis. The drummer? Daniel Adair? I have never seen anyone move 4 limbs so fast in opposite directions. I could feel his bass drum in my chest!

They started with Animals..how better to get the crowd going than a song about sex? They moved through the show and pumped us up with the usual "You guys rock" and "You guys are the best crowd ever." Hell, it worked for me! I'll believe anything that comes from Chad's mouth (be gone naughty thoughts!). The various pyrotechnics didn't hurt in pumping up the crowd either...what is it about fire, oversized sparklers, and the words "You ready to fuckin' rock?" Perhaps it's ending the show with Figured You Out.

Now, that's just not fair...make me feel like a Rockstar all night long, sing those songs with that voice, tickle the guitar the way you do with THOSE FINGERS, and then shove me out the door after you told me "I like your pants around your feet"?? I may just have to Follow You Home.

It's All About ME

2007-03-15T08:17:00.000-04:00

Since it's been quite some time since I've done one of these let me reacquaint you with ME ME ME with 13 fun filled facts!

1. Married for 6 years to the same wonderful, patient, unconditionally loving me back man, no kids but have 2 Great Danes and 4 Cats.

2. 5'0'', 100lbs, toned/fit, and try to keep a healthy lifestyle. But I balance it all out with my LOVE of beer (Red Stripe, Yuengling, Stella Artois, Fat Tire), Marble Slab Ice Cream, and whatever Jacques Larson is slicin' and dicin' at Mercato (Mom and Bonus Dad's GORGEOUS Italian restaurant in historic downtown Charleston). Jacques is a food genius (and ain't too bad to look at either!).

3. I am a fine art and sometimes nude model for a local painter/photographer, John Carroll Doyle. I'm on my way to becoming "The Notorious Chana Spring" as I have bared bottom and breast in John's latest black and white photography book I see London, I see France.

4. I am the youngest member of the Charleston Ballet Theatre Guild. I have been afforded the opportunity to get to know the dancers, choregrapher, and people who run the show. I even get to sit in on rehearsals which is very cool. My favorite part? Love the dancers! What a passionate group! A quality I am drawn to!

5. I love ANYTHING peanutty! Honey roasted peanuts, peanut butter, Peanut butter M&Ms, Peanut M&Ms, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups..you get the picture.

6. I have my certificate in Forensic Nursing. I would like to be a SANE nurse for adults/adolescents/peds (sexual assault nurse examiner) but ULTIMATELY would love to be a CSI or Nurse Death Investigator (coroner).

7. I love to read but really have a hard time reading non-fiction. When I read, I wanna escape my reality and dive into someone else's. Some of my faves? Angry Housewives Eating Bon-Bons, The Time Traveler's Wife, and My Sister's Keeper, Door to December, and The Kite Runner.

8. I didn't pierce my ears until I was 16 because my dad wouldn't allow it. When my parents got divorced, after I was though being pissed, it was one of the first things I did. These days I have 2 holes in each ear and a belly button ring. Surprisingly, Dad accepted it all, chuckled and said, "What's next? A tattoo?" Hmm..now that you mention it....

9. Oh..if you haven't noticed...I despise the word "stepdad" and call my mom's hubby "Bonus Dad."

10. I LOVE comments on my blogs and get really excited when I get one. I feel really bummed and secretly say "What am I doing wrong?" when I don't get any.

11. Friends and family are very important to me. I believe we have REASON, SEASON, and LIFETIME friends. They all serve a purpose and should be highly regarded when they are passing through, pausing a moment, or staying for the long haul. As for family, they are there no matter what. We don't have to interact or like each other but what a blessing when you love and even LIKE the interaction time with family!

12. Thanks to my Mom and Bonus Dad my wine palate has come along way from my college days! Back then I thought I was so cool drinking White Zin and Riesling (ok chugging it from the bottle!) Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon Special Reserve (can't remember the year) was the best bottle of wine I've ever shared with my hubby, Bonus Dad, and Mom. Totally worth the $129 we bought it for! Such a full taste!

13. Jenny from Me & My Musings is a very good friend of mine from high school. Although we lost touch for a few years after graduation and now LAW school will keep her busy these days, we have reconnected and we get together we pick up with each other like there was never a PAUSE!

There's A New Blog In Town

2007-03-14T19:49:00.000-04:00

On my way to post this, I accidentally typed in www.blooger.com. Is that like a blogging booger? Just made me smile for a second.

Anyway, Deb is here and she's ranting! Ranting about the "beauty" of childbirth, adventures in hair removal for her "wolf crotch" (her words, not mine) and Saturday morning run-ins with the Texas Marshalls looking for her hubby.

I especially liked the "Weird Little Psych Test Thingy" in which she is walking through the woods with her hubby and sees a porcupine, a cup, her dream home, and stream to cross. Who cares, you ask? Well, your answer to each question tells you a little bit about how you view your problems, how you react to stress, importance of sex...you get the picture. Get over there and take it. Answer the questions as you read through so your answers aren't skewed by the interpretation.

WELCOME DEB! GLAD YOU ARE HERE!

SAY WHAT?

2007-03-14T01:55:00.000-04:00

I have been a nurse for 7 years. For 2 of those, I was a labor and delivery nurse. I did love it at first but quickly tired of "epidermals", babies having babies, playing referee between 3 men who thought they were the "baby daddy", and rooms that smelled like a fish market (KID YOU NOT!). Desiring to work with kids, I switched hospitals and went to work on a Peds Hematology/Oncology unit. I LOVED IT! Finally..kids that ARE kids! Most say, "How sad!" No! Though these children are battling cancer and other chronic ailments, they enjoy life by playing in the playroom, drawing pictures for the nurses, and telling their story. Just ask 'em..they'll tell ya!

Somehow, though, after two years I wanted a bit more variety and decided to become part of the hospital's HOP which means I go to EIGHT different peds units (NNICU, Peds ER, Peds Cardiology, Infant/Toddler Unit, Peds Med/Surg, Peds Hem/Onc. and 2 different nurseries). Whew! I've been busy.

Here are some interesting peeps I've met along the way. Sometimes I chuckle to myself and sometimes I just shake my head and wonder.

I had a 2 year old sassy, very articulate, cancer patient and one evening I was helping to change her Pullup. We were cutting up and kinda did a roll my eyes thing as we talked. She looked at me and full of attitude said, "Ooooo...don't you cut yo eyes at me!" Same patient, another visit and her new baby brother was in the room and I asked what his name was, she said, very matter of factly, "Stankuh." She was also notorious for going into the hallway when the group of docs would round utside of her room and look at the male attending (the boss) and say, "Come here, boy!" What a little pistol!

"Lateesha", 25 years old, came in for a labor check. We were discussing how girls her age have already had 2, 3, maybe 4 kids. I told her I was proud of her for holding off until now. She responds, "Yeah, I'm surprised I didn't have no baby before diss cuz I like to F#$K too much." Oh, gross...thanks for the info. A little later we were talking about how some girls have babies to increase their welfare check and she interrupted to say, "Yeah I think das ok." Oops..sorry...missed your IV..gonna have to try again.

"So, what are you gonna name the baby?", I asked one family. "Rashaun, cuz that's French." Oh ok.

I was checking a laboring mother's blood pressure with the automated machine which made a humming sound as it inflated. As it did, Dad looks at me and asks, "Is that the baby growling?" Yes, he is very angry and wants out of there now!

I was helping a doc do a procedure on one of my peds liver failure patients. The doc ordered Ativan to help decrease the child's anxiety. (Sidenote: The relationship between Mom and patient was an interesting one in that they frequently teased each other.) I pushed the drug in and said, 'Ok, are you seeing those pink elephants yet that we talked about?" She looked around and said "Yeah, right over there!" and pointed to Mom who was wearing pink sweatpants. Hmmm...was it the drugs talking?

Last but not least, we had a seemingly normal couple laboring in one room. Well, the father of the baby (FOB) kept visiting another patient in a different labor room. Can you guess why??? Well, if not, here was his answer, "Oh, that's my other baby momma." Now I've heard it all.

Well, that's the stories for tonight, kiddies. Keep checking back for my next installment. Maybe tales of docs missing deliveries? Happens more than you think..even though they are right down the hall. Perhaps a list of names I see posted on nursery beds and patient doors. That's a good one. Tell me..how do you pronounce "Shithead"?

Saved by the Dell

2007-03-10T23:07:00.000-05:00

Ask anyone that knows me and they'll tell you that music is muy importante to me. I am always changing the song on my MySpace to mirror my mood or try to convey feelings that I can't quite find the words for. My mp3 player is always with me in my car, at the gym, or on neighborhood walks/rollerblading. My computer, which houses my music library, travels with me throughout various places in my home to deliver my much needed musical therapy. Yes, I even take it into the bathroom with me when I am showering. Music just makes the mundane go quicker and dare I say..fun!

Imagine my panic when my mp3 player went on the fritz! I've had this feeling once before when my first mp3 player died after jumping off a treadmill once...but oh yeah....3 times in the matter of 20 minutes. One phone call to Dell later revealed that mp3 suicide wasn't covered in the regular warranty. My husband wasted no time in getting me another one in a very timely manner. Guess he didn't want to deal with my music withdrawals. Who can blame him? The whining, bitchiness, wandering aimlessly singing to myself..it's not pretty. Anyway, the other night he and I were on our way to dinner and true to form, I hooked up my player to my little car converter. The music started but only the right speaker delivered sound. Thinking I hadn't put the thingy into the jack all the way, I took it out, put it back in but this time it was clear in the right speaker and crackly in the left. Come on! I jiggled the wire around and the left speaker delivered clear sound. Whew! Nobody move! A little shaken but slightly relieved I optimistically said, "Oh it must be this connection. Hope it doesn't do that with my earphones."

Fast forward two days later at the gym. Getting ready to get my work out on and ready to listen to some heart pumping tunes, I hooked my ear phones up and to my horror, sound in the right ear only! Every time I moved the sound went in and out of the left ear. Crap! Are you kidding me? Stupid Dell! I was totally unimpressed at this point seeing as I had already been through one Dell product. True, the first go 'round was my fault which is why my dear dear player stayed in such a soft protective case...just in case of further suicide attempts....and there have been a couple.

Well, luckily I have the smartest husband ever! He took my player with the faulty jack and worked his magic. I don't know what he did but all I saw was screws everywhere, the silver housing being pried off and the guts of my player in his hands. I felt a little panic as I thought about reloading 500+ songs on a new player if he couldn't get this fixed. Interrupting my thoughts, he said, "I think I fixed your player." Nervously I hooked my earphones up and turned the player on. The tracks popped up and I quickly pushed PLAY. Lo and behold "All that noise and all that sound" blared through both ears! Yippee! A look of relief and accomplishment flooded his face. Yes, I'm sure that he is very proud that he staved off a music withdrawal episode. Can you imagine having to actually tote CDs again and not have a play list of at least 20 different artists? Oh! the horror. It's just too much. I just can't think about it.

I Really Do Like My Job

2007-03-08T15:24:00.000-05:00

I saw that a Mr. Disgruntled stopped by my site this morning. Curious to see what he was disgruntled about, I stopped on by for a little look around. Turns out, that he allows all of us to leave a submission about whatever it is in our jobs that really gets to us. There are waiters, school photogs, deli workers, medical office personnel, etc. all letting it fly! Well, I couldn't resist after a night in the Peds ER! I am a nurse that travels to 8 different pediatric units and I have TONS of interesting stories and mostly they are happy and even funny because let's face it, kids react so innocently and spontaneously. They sure do say the darndest things! It's hard to explain what exactly gets to me..you just need to go HERE and get a little taste.

Go on over..read about a typical night in the "emergency" room, surf around, and leave your own submission! I can't wait for the next post!

Oh, a word to the wise, be nice to your waiter..you never know what kind of "extras" will end up in your food and drink.

Hallmark is Overrated!

2007-03-07T18:13:00.000-05:00

I remember a certain "Sex and the City" episode when Carrie says, "Think about it. If you are single, after graduation there isn't one occasion where people celebrate you ... Hallmark doesn't make a "congratulations, you didn't marry the wrong guy" card. And where's the flatware for going on vacation alone? "

I came to a realization today that my celebrations...Hallmark celebrations are over. Besides birthdays, what do I have left? I am married so I've had that party, I have decided to not have kids so baby showers are out of the question...so what else is there? "Congrats, you paid off your car" day? Yes! Exactly! It's up to me to celebrate me! This doesn't mean I become a self-centered, "It's all about me" kind of girl, however, I do believe we all need to love and REALLY like ourselves. I need to be a friend to me, before I can be a friend to ANYONE else.

When my husband and I got married, I told him that every 5 years I would like to renew our vows. Just to remind ourselves and others that we are still going strong! So, last year for my 5th wedding anniversary my husband and I went to Vegas with friends and family and renewed our vows with Elvis at the Graceland Wedding Chapel! What a blast!Celebrate yourself by doing something you really enjoy or just experiencing the day in a fun and silly way. Go to that restaurant on the harbor and have that glass of wine in the middle of the week , dress up for no reason at all and go out to dinner (makes people wonder who you are and what you are doing...they don't need to know you are doing it just for you!), wear that tiara with your girlfriend who is over for morning coffee, renew your vows, have those light up ice cubes to drop into a friend's drink when they come over to hang, or just taking that long hot bath at the end of a day. Simple actions that reaffirm to yourself that you are special and enjoying life in a unique way!

It's very easy to forget ourselves as we get caught up in our careers, husbands, children (even those with fur babies), and just everyday responsibilities. Don't forget to celebrate you and take a moment to acknowledge your accomplishments no matter how trivial society may think it is! It doesn't make you self centered or narcissistic but rather creates an aura of respect and love for yourself that others sense and in turn treat you in that manner. Stop waiting for that special day...CREATE IT! Remember, we attract what we are! This is where magnectic personalities are born!

What Blows Your Skirt Up?

2007-03-06T21:11:00.000-05:00

Here is my newest renter.."Whatever Blows My Skirt"! I haven't had someone sharing my space in quite some time but it feels right cozy in here! Anyhoo, I love love love the layout and absolutely LOVE the ballsy-ness of her latest post on being a parent.

This post really hit home for me b/c I have decided to forego becoming a parent for reasons she is describing and others. Yeah, I know children are joys and the trade off is worth it (so I hear) but FOR ME it's just not the life I want. To each their own. Besides, 2 Great Danes, 4 cats, and a hubby are enough for me!

I enjoyed helping to raise my brother, I enjoy being a pediatric nurse but I sure do love handing those kids back at the end of my shift or saying, "Oh, Mom..sorry..temper tantrum? Want some Ativan to calm that down?" (Just kidding! but I have been asked many times!)

I hope your stay here really blows your skirt up!

What time of day are you???

2007-03-05T19:40:00.000-05:00

I was looking through my BlogExplosion profile. I haven't logged in to that site in forever! Anyway, one question asked "What is one thing you want to do in your lifetime?" My answer: "To be a sunrise in someone's life." I want to be a person that says something or does something to cause happiness and light. I don't want to be the person that stands out in someone's mind as the one who steps on everyone to get what she wants. Too many of that in this world. So much selfishness and attitudes of "It's all about me." I find it sad that being different these days means being nice, generous, and concerned about the welfare of others. I definitely don't want to be a doormat, but I don't want to treat others that way either. So, my question is, "What is one thing you want to do in your lifetime??"

You Are Sunrise

You enjoy living a slow, fulfilling life. You enjoy living every moment, no matter how ordinary.
You are a person of reflection and meditation. You start and end every day by looking inward.
Caring and giving, you enjoy making people happy. You're often cooking for friends or buying them gifts.
All in all, you know how to love life for what it is - not for how it should be.

What Time Of Day Are You?

Restoring Balance

2007-03-04T12:40:00.000-05:00

Dear Diary and anyone who will listen,

I spent the day with a friend yesterday. I would even say dear friend. We haven't had that much interaction and most of these have taken place at social functions, but even through limited conversation I felt like I just needed and really wanted to get to know him. Yesterday was really the end of a bad month. Perhaps it was the beginning of a new time period? I think it can be both. The day was so completely rewarding. The conversation was fulfilling and never dull. I believe silence is ok but should never be awkward...though that wasn't an issue yesterday! Conversation spurred more conversation. It's funny how seeing someone from across the room you just know that person is someone you have to get to know. Glad I listened to that voice in my head? Nope, it was my heart. I am learning to listen more and act on it.

I can't discount the power of Thursday night's dinner either. I had planned a "get together" to tell people about a business I was starting. The "get-together" turned into a friend's birthday dinner and we had the birthday girl, her fiance, a friend of mine, my brother, and a friend of his stop by. My house hasn't seen so much action in quite some time! The walls were laughing and the table was rejoicing at finally getting used! I even ran out of food. Not used to cooking for a crowd!

My life is finally taking the turn I want it to. I have joined the ballet guild which gives me a community involvement which is what I have been yearning for. I have been searching for a way to donate time, money, efforts to people who are truly appreciative and passionate about what they do. I want to make a difference, you know? I want to give back and share my fortunate circumstances with others! Yet, at the same time, I have made some really cool contacts within the guild, the dancers, and those that make the ballet happen. I have also become to appreciate the ballet as an art. It helps when you get to see what all goes into a show and get to know the dancers behind the scenes. This, I feel, is their gift to me! We are all enhancing each other.

Anyway, that's about it for now. Thanks to all that have let me be me and learn my way through an expanding social circle and life's lessons. They never stop do they? I suppose the quicker we learn one lesson, the faster we can move to the next and with more wisdom from the prior!

Off to the gym to train the muscles now. Can brains get sore? I think mine might be.

Purifier of Silver

2006-10-04T10:29:00.000-04:00

Once again, not my words...but hitting close to home never the less. I take comfort in the fact that I am not a finished product and there is SOMEONE out there that cares to sit by and watch all the impurities melt away. SOMEONE does love me through all the mistakes. He watches and loves and lets it happen, not knowing if I will come to Him in the end or not. He never says, "Well, you should've done this or you should've said that." Nope, He just sits, guides, watches, and patiently waits.

Malachi 3:3 says: "He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver."This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God. One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible Study. That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining silver. As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities. The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she thought again about the verse that says: "He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver."

She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined. The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed.
The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, "How do you know when the silver is fully refined?" He smiled at her and answered, "Oh, that's easy -- when I see my image in it."

If today you are feeling the heat of the fire, remember that God has his eye on you and will keep watching you until He sees His image in you.

Reason, Season, or Lifetime

2006-06-14T07:10:00.000-04:00

I received this as an email some time ago. I am not sure who wrote it, but I think it is very appropriate and agree with it all. We have different friends for different needs. Not everyone serves the same purpose. Thank you to all those in my life that meet my different needs! You are all truly special to me!

People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person. When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend and they are. They are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand. What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.

Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow or learn. They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it, it is real. But only for a season.!

LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons, things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life. It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.

Thank you for being a part of my life, whether you were a reason, a season or a lifetime.

The Notebook

2006-06-04T20:33:00.000-04:00

Don't watch "The Notebook" when you are missing your signifcant other or have just gone through a breakup. I knew when I bought the movie today that I would watch it inspite of the fact that it would remind me of the hubby and I. Not the way we got together, but the way we are when we are with each other. Yeah, it's a movie and all but they interact like a real couple..they fight, they tell each other how it is, they keep each other on track, they inspire each other to be better, and most of all they do it all b/c they love each other beyond what most people can comprehend. Why do I torture myself this way?? I don't know..it's kind of a masochistic thing or something. I face the fact that I do miss him and feel like it's ok to cry b/c I am crying with the movie..know what I mean??
Being in love is sensational and I love all that goes all along with it. Everyone has their ups and their downs and that's what makes life interesting. So, here we are in an in between time. Not an up, not a down. Just a time suspended. A time that we are having to learn our way through b/c we have never experienced it before.
So, maybe I should actually say, do watch "The Notebook" if you are missing someone. I have had a good cry and yearn for my soulmate in a healthy way. Makes me appreciative for what I have and can't wait for it to come back.

My Knight in Shining Armour

2006-05-29T21:52:00.000-04:00

Well, a few weeks ago I found out that my husband is leaving me. No, not leaving me in that way. His company is sending him over to Kuwait to receive the government vehicles they been working on. I suppose we should be flattered that he was "handpicked" to go over there. He will only be gone for two months, staying in a nice hotel, and will be able to contact me. Back in his military days he was sent out at a moment's notice, no promise of communication, and for an indefinite amount of time. I do not envy military spouses and do not miss those days.

As I was driving back from a modeling job today, I was thinking about what I would miss about him being gone. I will obviously miss his handiness around the house and the fact that I always have someone around to laugh and talk with. More than that though, I will miss how feminine he makes me feel everyday. In a world where women are supposed to be strong, independent, and "I don't need no man", I enjoy being able to be what the world would consider, weak, with my husband. I can fall into his arms and cry, feel safe and secure, and know that he doesn't look at me like I am pathetic or feel burdened.

I also can admit to him that I do not know how to fix a toilet, change a flat tire (sorry, I just haven't learned that skill), change the oil in my car, or hook up my DVD/VCR to my T.V. He doesn't look at me as stupid or helpless. These things are just not something I have ever needed or wanted to learn. I enjoy being a girl and feeling like my husband is my "Mr. Fix It" and "Knight in Shining Armour." I don't find it degrading or oppressive. If I ever wanted to learn that stuff, he would be right there to teach me (and I suppose I should learn how to change a tire). However, I enjoy being able be the damsel in distress at times and needing him as a man. We all know that as women, we are fiercely strong and could handle just about anything on our own, but sometimes don't we just want that hero to swoop in and save us?? Let's face it, ladies and gentlemen, women love to feel sexy and feminine and men love to feel manly and that women still want them as their "Knights in Shining Armour."

Surprise! I DO have feelings!

2006-05-24T22:28:00.000-04:00

Have you ever loved someone so much it makes you cry? Have you ever been do disappointed by that person that it makes you cry? Yet, at the same time, you are crying b/c the dream of seeing their life play out...the way you know it can...is dying? The person that you love unconditionally and want to see successful is screwing up their life and you don't understand why? You think about how that person's decisions are going to affect the rest of their life and you just care about them so much you are terrified and you want to help so bad, but they can't see through their own anger to realize that you are just trying to help. They have their own hurts and screwed self perceptions (or more appropriately, a screwed up sense of how THEY think THEY are viewed by others) that they can't accept that you are crying to them, begging them to just hold on and get through this for one more week. They are unable to see that this conversation and the words dripping with concern are an act of the deepest CARING and not TELLING them what to do, calling them a failure, or comparing them to others. So, have you ever loved someone so unconditionally that you endure biting remarks and words laced with blame? Have you ever been so disappointed that it turns into anger and tears of anger and disappointment burn you cheeks? I have and among other things I'm dealing with...feel like I am sinking and just need someone to throw me a flotation device. Sometimes, I need help keeping my head above water, too.

A Wonderful Week of Memories

2006-05-21T21:28:00.000-04:00

I know I live in Charleston and the beach is only 30 or so minutes away, but you kinda get spoiled having it as your backyard for a week. Of course, it may the fact that I don't work when I'm out here, I don't have the responsibilities of house keeping, there is a constant flow of friends, and time just doesn't exist. I feel completely at peace out here and just feel like I have found my little corner of the world.

So, I am sitting here on the couch, drinking the last Corona and thinking back on the week. Sunning on the deck or by the water's edge, dinners at Planet Follywood, conversations and Yuenglings on the screened in porch, watching the wind carry the kite surfers down the coast at a brisk pace, playing ball, jumping waves, and laughing as the Danes dig furiously in the sand, and just enjoying the sound and smells of the ocean.

As I wait for the couch slipcovers to dry, the house is quiet except for the hum and tumbling sound of the dryer, whereas 24 hours ago at this time it was bustling with the laughter of friends, the clinking of ice in the cocktail mixer as Appletinis were concocted, and the roar of NASCAR on the t.v. I was blessed this week to have many friends filter in and out and enjoy the world that I love so much. I hope they walk away with the same sense of peace and relaxation that I do. We return to the "real" world..back to paying bills, wondering what's for supper, and of course, back to work.

We always have this place, the memories, and of course, we always have each other.

Luckily, I get to do it all again in July....for a month! Folly Beach...I love it!

Thursday Thirteen

2006-05-18T15:40:00.000-04:00

Thirteen Things About Folly Beach

1.Locals refer to Folly Beach as "The Edge of America."

2. Folly Beach is a nesting site for loggerhead turtles and each year their nests are marked off.

3.Front beach houses are to leave their lights off at night b/c when the baby turtles hatch their instinct is to follow the moonlight to the water...a porch light just may confuse the poor little guys.

4. The Folly Boat sits on the side of the road and always has a new message painted on it by the locals. It was washed ashore in 1989 by Hurricane Hugo.

5. My mom and family painted the Folly Boat for my wedding, "Happy Nuptials!" For my rehearsal dinner, we had an oyster roast and Frogmoore stew(shrimp, polish sausage, corn on the cob, new potatoes..all thrown together and steamed..mmm..good) at a local restaurant on Folly..an excellent way to show the out-of-towners my hometown and a local tradition!

6. The Folly Beach Pier extends 1,045 feet into the ocean. Whether it's a romantic walk, dinner, shopping for souveniers, or fishing your interested in...you can find it here.

7. It is against the law to cut, destroy, or break the sea oats! No walking on the dunes please!

8. Folly Beach has a huge erosion problem and therefore must be renourished every so often.

9. In summer 2005, the renourishment was taking place during our vacation out here.

10. They had a dredger in the ocean and had a HUGE pipe that pumped sand from the bottom of the ocean and dumped it on the beach and bulldozers pushed it around and built the beach back up.

11. We walked each day to where they were pumping it and watched them build up our beach. They were about a 1/2 mile away from our house while we were here and kept getting closer..by the time we left in August we could see them from our house. By September, they were right in front of our house.

12. I am blessed to have a generous Bonus Dad that shares his family's beach house and has been doing so since 2000. We started vacationing with Mom and Bonus Dad getting 2 weeks to do our thing and now get our own week AND share their time...up to 3-4 weeks with them now! Woo hoo!

13.This is my most favorite place in the world and feel like I have found my niche in the world!

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"Yeah, my husband is gonna want that dent fixed.."

2006-05-17T17:01:00.000-04:00

The lady that hit Cole called our house. She stopped by Mom and Bonus Dad's house last night and Bonus Dad about got mad at her until she said "I cried and cried about hitting that dog" and then he gave our home number and said, "They are responsible pet owners you shouldn't have a problem." So when we stopped by our house today, this is the message we received on our machine:
"Hi, this is (insert name here), the lady that your dog ran out in front of. I got an estimate on the damages to my car and just wanted to get together so we could get this thing taken care of. My number is...thanks, bye."
So, I called her back (I figured this would be a good lesson in patience and humility for me). She answered:

Her: hello?

Me: Hi, Mrs. (insert her name here), This is Chana (I said my last name).

Her: (silence)

Me: This is Chana, the one with the dog...you hit

Her: Oh yes...I'm glad your dog is doing ok, I was so upset, but he just ran out in front of me and there was nothing I could do. I would never want to hurt an animal. {Well, thank God she added that b/c I thought she may go around hitting dogs for fun.} I got home though and saw the dent in my car and got so angry b/c this car is new and only has 4,000 miles on it.{ok, it took all I had not to say are you f'ing kidding me??}

Me: Uh-huh...{silence}.....ok, well, whatever, you said something about an estimate.

Her: Yes, I have the estimate and just want to get together and show you guys so we can get this taken care of. I don't want to put it on my insurance b/c I don't want my insurance to go up b/c this wasn't my fault. {WTF??...it wasn't anyone's fault....it was an ACCIDENT...and YOU hit MY dog and I haven't asked for one cent for medical bills...had this been a child this would be completely different...might as well be a child though...he is MY child..my hubby and I=no kids}

Me: Uh huh...whatever....tell me the figure and i will get with insurance. We are on vacation until Sunday so we will have to get back to you.

Her: Ok, the damage was estimated at $998.72 from Norton-Richardson in Summerville. We have been taking our cars there for years and they are good {like I really care about the work they do} but if your insurance wants me to go somewhere else then I will {damn right you will..do you have choice if you want it paid for?}

Me: Uh-huh, ok well, we'll see. We may want Star Motor Service to look at it b/c my husband used to work there and we are tight with the owner and may be able to get a different estimate, but we'll see.

Her: Ok. This is a new Inifiniti (like I care?) and it's not going to be cheap to fix.

Me: {I was steaming by this point and calmly but in a very hard and slightly sarcastic tone said}..Well, Star works on Mercedes so I think that you'll be ok.

Her: ok.

Me: Ok then...we are on vacation so we'll talk to you when we get back.

Her: ok...look forward to hearing from you.

Yeah, it was a good lesson for me. I was a good girl..surprised??? Insurance is handling it from here. I so want and wanted to say something to her...but I'm not going to..I'm just going to let it be...but if I ever see her again...Lord help her and her car. New Infiniti...who cares? Why do you even throw that tidbit in there? Like I really care about the car...my dog is a living, breathing thing with staples in his leg, road rash, and a scraped up booty. I just said "uh-huh" alot and got off the phone..insurance said I did good. I am proud of me, too.

Folly Beach: The Edge of America

2006-05-15T13:37:00.000-04:00

We arrived at the beach on Saturday around 3 p.m. It was nice and sunny but very windy. We had some parking issues at first b/c my bonus dad's niece was using the house as a parking spot for her beach party. After some rearranging, we fit everybody's cars in. Always room at the beach!
Two of my friends came out and we walked the dogs on the beach and let them galavant through the water and chase sand (as Atlas can be seen doing on his blogspot in the March archives). Later that evening, we had a perfect beach dinner of grilled steak and chicken, twice baked potatoes, salad, and beer and/or wine. Great conversation and great food. It was all very delicious.
Sunday morning we greeted the world around 9 a.m. and hubby and I took the boys on their morning walk. We had to leave to drop a vehicle at the airport for the the parents upon their return from their Truks diving trip. We left my two friends to bask in the sun and enjoy doing nothing. Couple hours later, we were back and I joined my girls on the deck. Apparantly, at some point, they had fallen asleep and forgotten to turn over for an hour and a half b/c the front of their bodies were a little toasty looking. Yeah, that's gonna hurt! We laid out for a bit more until the clouds starting to roll in and the breeze got a bit chilly. Thank goodness for a screened in porch! Our friends left around 6...one had to work..and the other had to check on her kitty, Slinky. Hubby and I walked the dogs...as we do every evening around 6 (after May 1st dogs are only allowed on the beach before 10 a.m. and after 6p.m...although it's a bit easier this early in the season to get away with staying out a bit late in the A.M. or going out a bit early in the P.M.). A leisurely night of a low key dinner of left overs and watching "Desperate Housewives" and "Grey's Anatomy" (can you believe Preston got shot...what a way to end the show!!!) followed.
The storm clouds continued to roll in and we got a good bit of rain last night and a bit here and there today. It's overcast and there is a nice breeze blowing..a bit chilly, but lovely for a nice relaxing day reading/writing on the screened in porch. Though I like to lay in the sun, I am not a huge sun worshipper so I enjoy days like today. Porch sitting weather as I call it. My usual habit is to get my water(or other beverage of choice), my book (and computer this year), my phone, some chapstick, a radio, and my pups and park myself in the swing on the porch. I watch, listen, read, think, etc. Beach vacation is always a decompression time for me. Alot of reflection time and I am able to sort through things so easily out here. Although I am in my hometown, I am away from work and responsibilities of MY home and I just feel SO relaxed (not that my life at home is that hard either...but I don't get to stare at the ocean and do nothing all day when I'm there either!).
So, here are some pics. I took them this morning. This is what I see when I look out from my porch and from the end of our walkway. I love it and this is where I feel most at peace. Nothing can bother me here.

Off to the beach!

2006-05-12T13:56:00.000-04:00

I am off to the beach! I am sure that I will not have internet out there. I know our house doesn't have it...and unless someone has a wireless I can tap into while we are there...I will have to save all stories for when I come back. So, it's off for sand, sun, and fun! See you when I get back!

Happy Thursday Thirteen!

2006-05-11T00:59:00.000-04:00

Thirteen Things that Made me SMILE/LAUGH this week!
1. I got an unexpected night off from work on Sunday. I spent that evening watching my t.v. shows with the hubby, Cole, Atlas, and Chaz (brother/mom's dog).
2.Though Cole was hit by a car, he is ALIVE and WELL and doing awesome. He greeted me with a happy face and a wagging tail this morning when I got home from work. Sweet boy! Walking a little tenderly, but all is well and I think he even learned that the road is not somewhere he should run out into!
3. Watched the Numa Numa Dance over and over last night with the girls at work and we laughed and laughed. If you haven't already seen it...click on it and watch this guy! He is freakin' hilarious!
4. My contest for my renter, Rant Cafe, went well (scroll a bit and click). I had a good many entries and was never more excited to give away credits that I surfed so long to get!
5. I watched the movie "House of Wax" while I was working out and Paris Hilton died in it...speared right through the head. Is that wrong to smile about that??
6. Getting a "Get Well Soon" note for Cole from my cousin. Always makes me smile when someone loves my doggies too.
7. Receiving so many comments on my "Girls Gone Wild" and "Cole vs. Car..Cole Wins" post. I love comments. Thank you to all who showed Cole some love!
8. Anticipating a night out with friends tonight...good friends, sushi, good friends, Trickknee, beer...did I mention good friends?
9. Found out that a friend of mine from high school...also a boy I had a crush on...moved back here with his new fiance. I can't wait to see him again and meet his girl!
10. Looking forward to a night out with friends..yes, another night out....on Friday for a farewell dinner for a co-worker. I love going out with friends! Friends and family rock!
11. Thinking about waking up on Saturday morning at the beach house, looking out the window and seeing beach and ocean in front of me. Walking the dogs on the beach, sitting on the porch all day reading or lying in the sun. Whatever I want to do b/c I'm at the beach and time doesn't exist!
12. Hubby may get a raise! More money..always helpful!
13. The sweet smile of our 13 month bone marrow transplant patient. Even not feeling well, he was just smiling and showing some love!
Links to other Thursday Thirteens!

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The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

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Cole vs. Car..Cole wins

2006-05-09T22:09:00.000-04:00

I am letting my "son" guest blog here tonight. I have 2 Great Danes..see them here. I do not have 2 legged children, nor do I intend to, so my two boys and my 5 cats are my furkids and my world!

I had a scary day today. No, it wasn't about me for once, and I didn't have to visit the vet, but Cole did. First some background....As you all know, Mom, Dad, Cole, and I are housesitting for my grandparents. The house is the second house on a very non-busy cul-de-sac. We are surrounded by marsh, a bird sanctuary, and undeveloped house lots. The only traffic we get is from cars turning around in the cul-de-sac or some boaters heading down the dirt road to the landing. Cole and I enjoy our off the leash walks every morning and afternoon when we are there.Well, today, Mom was still sleeping (b/c she worked last night and had to again tonight) and Dad came home from work at 4 and took us on our walk. We went out the garage and there was a dog across the street that Cole just had to go say "hi" to. Well, bad timing, b/c there was a car coming also. She had no chance to stop and wound up hitting Cole. The lady walking the other dog told Dad, "She wasn't going that fast, " and the lady who hit him stopped to see if he was ok. He got up and limped over to Dad and he had some blood coming from his butt and a cut on his leg. Dad rushed into the house, told Mom, and loaded Cole into the truck. As dad was loading him into the car, the lady that hit Cole came back to the house, pulled into the driveway behind the truck, and said, "I just wanted you to see that I have a dent in my car and my husband will probably want it fixed." Mom was outside getting me in the house by that time and you should've seen the look on her face! I think it took all her patience to keep her mouth shut. Dad calmly said, "Ok, whatever, we will be here to the end of the week", she left, and Dad continued on to the vet and had to leave him there for evaluation.An hour later, the vet called and said Cole's x-rays were fine, the blood from his rectum was from a really bad scrape, his laceration was stapled, and his only worrisome injury was that he was peeing blood. Could be a ruptured bladder, but he seemed to be holding urine in it and wuld probably be ok. He stayed a little longer for eval and Dad went at 6:30 to pick him up. By that time he was enjoying his pain medicine and his urine had cleared up. He is home with me, sleeping soundly. He has a bandage to his leg and his booty looks raw, but I am glad he is here with me and screw that woman's car being fixed, my brother needs fixing first!

Girls Gone Wild!

2006-05-08T00:56:00.000-04:00

For this story, imagine the picture reads "The difference between girls at Downtown Wild Wings and North Charleston Wild Wings."Dowtown would be on the left. Ok, now..on to the story. I went out to the North Charleston Wild Wings on Thursday night to watch Trickknee play. Not only do they rock, but my friend is in the band and he's hot. Anyway, I'm sitting there with my girlfriends enjoying the music and occasional conversation when we could hear each other over the music and the group of girls behind us hoopin' it up. Picture homegirl in the above right pic in tight, low cut capri jeans with a gold metallic belt, her muffin top hanging out, and a top that says "You're Just Jealous" and her friend in some kind of halter top with saggy boobies and no bra, who kept announcing how "fuck up" she was. I knew it was just a matter of time before they started dancing with their hands over their heads, wiggled their butts, and yelled "Woohoo!" I didn't have to wait long. They even did the girl on girl dancing for us. I was waiting for the "Girls Gone Wild" cameras to swoop in at any minute. They were primed and ready! Oh! but wait! Ladies, there was a show from Mr. Chippendale himself that night! Blonde hair, blue eyes, and all of 5'4" taking it all off just for you! What? You didn't want to see his blinding white skin, man boobs and beer keg belly??
Fast forward to Cinco de Mayo. First off, we started our night with dinner at Sr. Tequila..a lovely little Mexican joint in West Ashley (the in between N. Charleston and dowtown area). Before we left for downtown, I headed to the bathroom and already at 10 pm someone was crying and professing their love for some boy they broke up with months ago. "He's my heart!", I heard. "Well do you want to risk your nursing license on that guy, he steals prescription drugs!" Yeah, this night should be good. Onward to Downtown Wild Wings! I was thinking..ok, downtown..more sophisticated crowd. HA! College crowd and business men! What do you think comes from that mix?? Yep, the phrase "Did you see that?" comes to mind. Where there's alcohol, there will be lower inhibitions. And there she was...about 30 minutes into the show giving a show of her own. Yeah, she was cute, petite, slender, put together well, but she might as well been saying, "I'm fuck up!" She belly danced on stage, used the lead singer's microphone stand and a support column as a stripper pole, danced on the bar (several times), and even did that "bend over and touch your toes" move that Usher and Ludacris are fond of. I felt like I should go give her a dollar or something. Of course, she wasn't the only one. There were the girl on girl dancers, the older lady in the tube top dancing with the guy who thought he had the moves, the girl flapping her arm like a chicken (still trying to figure that one out), and the guy doing the "bend over and touch your toes" move. Ewww...I am sure at one point in my life I was "that girl" that everyone said "Did you see her?" Thank God I am a bit older and wiser and see how ridiculous these girls look. Alcohol makes you do some crazy stuff and in your mind you think you look damn good doing it! Well, I'll tell ya....throwing your hands over your head, wiggling your butt, and yelling "Woohoo!" is not as sexy as your drunk ass thinks! And for all of our sakes, keep your clothes on!

It's Thursday Thirteen again!

2006-05-04T09:58:00.000-04:00

Thirteen Things songs that I love and the memories/thoughts they provoke!
1. "Winter in July" by Sarah Brightman--not only does this woman have a gift of a beautiful voice, the song is musically and lyrically beautiful. You can listen to it over on my MySpace. "Future dreams can never last, when you find yourself still living in the past.....Make the best of what's given you, everything will come in time, why deny yourself, don't just let life pass you by, like Winter in July."
2. "Summer Place"--reminds me of so many memories..days spent at Mamama's, my brother standing on my dad's feet while he danced, dancing with Dad at my wedding (he even took dance lessons with me and learned to waltz!)..uh-oh, tears are threatening
3. "Taking You Home" by Don Henley..my first dance with my husband at our wedding..even though Don wrote that for his child, the words still spoke to both of us
4. "The Phantom of the Opera" as sung by Sarah Brightman and Michael Crawford--I heard this song for the first time when I was 13 and learned what Broadway was. From that moment on, my biggest traveling dream was to get to NYC and see "The Phantom of the Opera." Finally, for my 4th wedding anniversary, at the age of 25, I sat with my husband in the Majestic Theatre, tears in my eyes as my dreams were fulfilled. Awesome show! And I love the movie!
5. "Sadeness", "Voyageur", "Boum, Boum, Boum", etc. by Enigma--ok, this music is just hot and erotic. Need I say more??
6."What a Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong--pretty much sums up how I feel, no matter how cynnical I can be at times due to being jaded by people's attitudes or things I experience at work...I look around and marvel at the gifts that God created for us!
7. "I Hope You Dance" by Leanne Womack--not one for country, but Mom played this at my wedding after she did her toast and it just reminds me to never sit on the sidelines or get cynnical or jaded against the world.
8. "Time of Your Life (Good Riddance)" by Green Day--I dedicated this to my brother at my wedding and we had our dance to it)(the only time I cried at my wedding!). I was 9 when he was born and got to share in the joys of raising him.We are really close and I love him so much. I had never lived away from home up until the time I got married (I was 22), so my leaving the house was an adjustment for both of us. Oh no! More tears! I cry everytime I hear this song.
9. "Carribean Blue" by Enya--always reminds me of our beach house vacations
10."No More Tears" by Ozzy Osbourne--told you in my profile I have very eclectic musical tastes..I love the bass guitar and music in this song, also reminds me of my Junior year in high school, particularly, rides to school with some girl I can't remember her name and the guy I was dating.
11. "Power of Love" by Hughie Lewis--my dad and I used to go to see all the "Back to the Future" movies together. Everytime I hear this song, it always brings up the memory of us loving these movies and watching them everytime they came on the t.v.
12. "Right on Track" by The Breakfast Club--again, a daddy memory..he used to listen to this record alot and I just remember we both loved this song.
13. "Good Mother" by Jann Arden--reminds me of a friend that I had in high school and for a brief moment in my adult life. She was my soulmate friend and this song is one that we heard and looked at each other and said, "That's you!" at the same time. We had an intense mental connection and hopefully one day will be able to get our friendship back. The full story can be seen at MySpace and scroll to "I've got a friend who loves me."

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If these 2 can do it.....

2006-05-03T10:55:00.000-04:00

I promised myself that I wasn't going to post on the immigration thing. What's my reason, you ask? Everyone else is saying enough about it that I don't feel the need to add my two cents! But, I saw this picture and thought, "Okay, if these two animals of different species can get along....or sometimes just tolerate one another...then how come humans can't follow suit?" We are always demanding respect, demanding rights, demanding fairness and equality..demand, demand, demand! Has anyone heard of working and earning what you want and treating others as you would like to be treated???? I am just not getting the selfish attitude of people these days. The attitudes that we are all "owed" something from someone. Get educated, work, and earn it. Quit living off the system and free hand outs...the government is not here for you to mooch off of. I don't know how many times I have been asked for free car seats("I'm sorry, don't you have 5 kids already..what happened to THOSE car seats?"), free taxi rides from the hospital to home (when somehow they found a way TO the hospital), parents of children asking for free meal trays/meal tickets for themselves OR have heard from their mouths, "I'm milking this for all I can." WHAT???? Yeah, I was actually told by a laboring mother (when I worked Labor and Delivery) that, "It's ok to have babies for a check." After 6 years of nursing, I'm still amazed at some of the things I hear and see. ER is the worse place for it. ER=EMERGENCY ROOM! This may come as a surprise to some, but being unable to take a crap is not an emergency, people! Don't take your kid to the emergency room at 1 am for constipation and eye drainage b/c you don't want to go to work! THAT can wait 'til the doctor's office opens! But, I digress...back to my original topic. If these 2 in the pictures can seem to get along and tolerate one another, I do believe that those of the same species should be able to follow their example. Sure, I'll tolerate your presence in my life. Just don't ask me to change my national anthem. Don't ask me to make special accomodations for you b/c you chose not to learn your new home's language. This is America, we speak English, we appreciate you wanting to be here and all and recognize your impact...just get legal, learn English, pay taxes, and don't ask for us to modify our culture. And as for the ones who are Americans and mooching off the system and feel that they are still owed something, Quit having babies, get an education, and get a damn job!

An Intervention

2006-04-30T14:29:00.000-04:00

I broke into a cold sweat and my hands got clammy. I could feel that panicky, sick feeling start to grow in my stomach. There it was! Oh! the horror, don't look! "Limited or no connective ability" the screen so coldly displayed. How could this be? I was just surfing the internet 10 minutes ago! What ever did I do to deserve this! "Baby," I said to my husband, "what's the matter with the internet?" "I don't know," he calmly he said, "my computer says the same thing." He went back to what he was doing, no concern for the fact that withdrawal symptoms would soon be setting in for me. "Um...I think you should see what's the matter and fix it," I tried to calmly say. "Ok, in a minute," he returned. "I think you should call the provider," I urged. Sensing my panic, he got up, got the phone, flashed me a "it's a good thing you are cute" look, and called the provider. I patiently awaited his return as I watched my computer try to connect to the internet and come up with that same answer, "Limited or no connective ability." Finally, I heard his footsteps coming down the stairs. "So, what's going on?" I asked. He looked at me and gravely said, "I'm sorry, we did all we could, but we couldn't save your wireless router, it's died. You are going to have to directly connect to the modem or be without internet." Gasp...without internet??? Are you kidding? I gotta have my internet! Stunned, I looked at him with a very puzzled expression and cried, "How did this happen? It was fine 10 minutes ago! I was surfing, blogging, sending emails, and now it's just gone? Like that?" Being the internet junkie I am (mostly to surf for credits), I gathered my laptop and walked up the stairs. I hooked into the cable modem. Ahhh...there it is..connection established. My insides calmed immediately. Whew! I never want to feel that way again.
Though I am with internet now, my X'd out antenna at the bottom right corner still blares at me as if to say, "Ha! You wore me out! Now you're stuck at this desk!" After a sufficient grieving period, we will get a new wireless, but for now I'll have to do my surfing on a leash. Perhaps, this loss of wireless is all for the best. It was getting too easy to be on the internet, anywhere and everywhere, I could surf for credits. Time to step back into the real world!

Thursday Thirteen!

2006-04-27T08:51:00.000-04:00

Thirteen Things that I look forward to

1. Vacation at the beach house with Mom and Bonus Dad....4 weeks front beach! Sit on the porch, soak up some rays (if it isn't too hot), walk the dogs in the morning and the evening, eat when and what we want, have a cold beer or glass of wine as the breeze blows and the sun sets...it's wonderful!

2. Coming home in the morning after a hard night's work and walking up the stairs to be greeted by 2 very happy Dane boys...tails a waggin' and happy grins! Watch out when you let them out of the gate! Let them go ahead of you on the stairs!

3. Friday nights...date night!

4. South Sundays! My mom and bonus dad "adopted" a Japanese man that is an avid pool player and a talented sushi and regular chef. He often goes to their house on Sundays and he whips up a little somethin'! Yum!

5. My husband coming home at the end of the day or just for lunch.

6. Gramma's "tickles" when she's in town..the light brushing of her fingertips over my back, arms, legs...a tradition since I was a kid...better than a massage!

7. Goddy's jokes...my dad's dad always has a new joke to tell..and they are pretty funny, too!

8. A Gala gathering: complete with dinner, dessert, Appletinis, and POKER!

9. Taking my Danes to the Bark Park and watching them play with dogs of all sizes and watching Atlas swim and try to coax his brother Cole to "come on in!"

10. Birthdays! I love to celebrate anyone's birthday! Thank God we're here to see another year!

11. Opening Yahoo! mail to see if I have any comments on my blog, signing on to MySpace to see if I have any comments or messages...I know, a little bit sad! Simple pleasures?

12. My Mamama saying, "I know you do!" when I say, "I love you."

13. Seeing what each new day brings my way!

Links to other Thursday Thirteens!

No Drama Mammas Please...

2006-04-26T17:56:00.000-04:00

I try to keep a positive outlook on life. I really do. Sometimes, however, my self pity gets the best of me and I am down in dumps, for whatever reason. I know my life isn't all that bad and I actually have it pretty easy. Perhaps that's the reason why I have a hard time coming up with posts sometimes.

I don't invite drama in life. Never really have. I have never been in the "he said-she said" crowd and really don't know what to do when I do have a dramatic moment. It's like I'm stunned and think to myself, "If I don't move, it won't see me and will pass right by." I just don't need a crisis in my life in order to feel important. I have watched many friends of mine create drama on purpose in order to have something going on in their lives. Oye vay....no thanks!

I have noticed, in my blog surfing, that posts revolving around drama get the most attention. Makes sense, right? Soap operas have been around as long as they have for a reason, right? Can you imagine living a soap opera life? I think I would be 500 pounds just from all the stress eating!

Eh, whatever, I will just have to keep writing on my little life that I have carved here on the coast of South Carolina and hope that someone appreciates what I am sharing!

What time of day are you?

2006-04-25T03:52:00.000-04:00

It's actually quite funny to me that I am a sunrise. When I wake up in the morning, I am not quite as bright and cheerful as one might think a sunrise should be. Just ask my mom and husband! Allow me to hatch before you ask me any questions that require more than a grunt for an answer, please!

It is true, I don't like getting up with the sunrise (unless it's my beach house vacation), but I often get to see the sun rise when I am at work and looking out a patient's window. In the children's hospital, our rooms look over the river and the city below. As the sun rises, it kisses the water and causes it to blush, casting a gorgeous orange glow over the buildings and waking up the city. I hope that I am like a sunrise in people's lives, a slow and increasing light and warmth. Nothing sudden or forceful.

I thought this was a really true perception of me. I especially love the last comment! It is so true that I look at life as I have it now and am so grateful for what I have been blessed with! Life is what it should be right now...it is what it is!

Check out this and other quizzes at BlogThings.

You Are Sunrise

You enjoy living a slow, fulfilling life. You enjoy living every moment, no matter how ordinary.

You are a person of reflection and meditation. You start and end every day by looking inward.

Caring and giving, you enjoy making people happy. You're often cooking for friends or buying them gifts.

All in all, you know how to love life for what it is - not for how it should be.

What Time Of Day Are You?

Tale of Two Princesses

2006-04-22T15:55:00.000-04:00

Imagine with me, if you will, a pale, bald headed little girl, draped in a pink blanket, sitting in a big hospital blanket watching the Miss USA pageant while I am untangling the IV lines coming out of her arm. Just 10 minutes ago she was able to see her gramma's gentle smile and feel the warmth of her touch. Now, isolated from the outside world for the next 30 days, she sits and watches as I, Gramma, and Auntie fuss over her, trying to get her clothes on straight and tuck her blankets properly, all the while, our expressions hidden beneath masks and our caresses filtered through the rubbery feel of nitrile. She has already asked if her gramma could please take off the mask b/c she doesn't look like herself.

After TRYING unsuccessfully to console her, I tell her, "Gramma can at least look through the window of the door without her mask", and move on to my next tactic..distraction. Everyone is making small talk about the pretty girls on the T.V., only to fall silent when Miss Georgia comes on for her question. Not sure what made us listen to her, but I'm glad we did. "What do you think men could learn from women?", she is asked. Ha! That inspired a few comments from this peanut gallery! We catch a bit or all (I'm still not sure) of Miss Georgia's answer, "Women are strong....we've been walking around here in high heels all week....C'mon, seriously", she says. I catch the implication she is making and I look around at the two women with me and say, "Was that her final answer, is she kidding?" Although I can't see it, I'm sure their jaws have dropped like mine. Basically, she is telling the judges and America that men can learn how to be strong from women b/c we walk around in freakin' high heels and are uncomfortable for beauty???? Are you kidding me? Here I am preparing a FIVE year old and her family for a life changing bone marrow transplant and Miss Georgia is talking about women being so strong b/c we "endure" high heels, push our breasts up in bras, bleach our teeth to blinding shade of white, torture our hair into a style that is just-so, and put on makeup? ------->

Whether she meant it that way or not, her comment could not have come at a more appropriate time. Yes, appropriate. It made me think how shallow people really can be. Here is a little girl that has overcome more obstacles in her 5 years than any adult I know! She can only hope to be "so strong" as to wear high heels, coupe her hair, step into a beautiful dress, put on makeup someday! Oh man, it still peeves me to think of Miss Georgia standing there with her perfect hair, pretty face, flashing her charming, un-naturally white smile, trying to charm the judges with a non-answer. PU-leek, most people don't even know what inner strength or inner beauty is anymore. I am surrounded by it constantly and can't help but be sickened when others miss the mark so completely.

What They Don't Teach You in Nursing School

2006-04-22T01:56:00.000-04:00

Before anyone gets their panties in a bunch, just know that I LOVE BEING A NURSE! Now, that being said, on with my story...

Being a nurse, you know you are dealing with highly emotional and stressed out people. You expect to be verbally thrashed at times. As a new nurse you are completely taken off guard the first few times this happens, tear up, run out of the room, and say "They don't like me." After a year or so, the skin gets a little tougher and you are more confident in your skills and experience to forge ahead, no matter the reaction.

I work in a highly emotional specialty...pediatrics. I take care of babies born too early, cancer, transplants and other surgeries, asthmatics, sickle cell disease, heart issues, etc. You name it...I deal with it. Parents are stressed b/c they are scared and kids are stressed b/c, #1, we are constantly asking them to do something for us...pee in this cup, hold out your arm so I can draw blood, take this medicine, lay on your right side and don't move for 6 hours, etc. and #2 they are scared, also.

More often than not, nurses take the brunt of verbal abuse. I have heard from the mouths of babes, "You are mean", "You like hurting me", "I hate you" and I've even heard the "F" word out of a few. They lash out at us and that's ok, no offense taken. I understand, they are scared.

What's harder to take is when it's from a parent/family member. Especially a parent/family member that you have an established relationship with and have been working with for days, weeks, and sometimes years. This is when it once again stings and takes a moment for you to put what is happening into perspective.

A little background for my upcoming story...there is a bone marrow transplant tomorrow. To prepare for this, the child has already received mega doses of chemo over the last week or so, total body irradiation, permanent lines being placed, EKG's, and sometimes other unforeseen procedures. The night before transplant is when "the move" takes place. The child is placed into a negative pressure room (room that doesn't allow outside air in) and that's where they remain for the next 30 days or so. Usually, they bathe before they go, get a cloth dressing (we call it a t-shirt dressing) over their IV line, and move on over. Everyone, except the patient, wears gloves and masks into the room. Nothing is brought into the room unless it can be wiped down with a special antigerm spray. It's an intense time for patients and families.

Now that the background has been established...one of my tasks tonight was to prepare my patient for her bone marrow room. My tasks were: 1. Get her bath done and 2. Remove her IVs from her hands. Already that night, she endured 3 unsuccessful sticks to her Port-A-Cath (under the skin IV that is accessed with a special needle) in her chest b/c it wouldn't work earlier and it needed to be working before the needle could be left out for good (we don't leave them accessed usually b/c it requires a tape dressing and they shouldn't have tape on their skin). After all that torture, I gently told the family about what the plan was in getting the patient from point A to point B...bath and remove IVs. I can see a cloud come over gramma's face and a verbal tirade ensues. The stress that has been building up over the past few weeks pours out. Sure, it stings. I am a little taken back, but I remind myself that it's the stress talking. It does no good to try and defend my actions or justify any false accusations that she's making. Just listen...that's my job in this moment.

There is no class that can teach you, as the nurse, to deal with the frustrated families and patients. You just know in your head that it's not personal (most of the time) and you are the easiest person to vent to b/c you are the messenger or the performer of many of the dreaded procedures. Ever hear, don't shoot the messenger? A lot of "shooting the messenger" goes on in the nursing world.

Often, after tempers subside, apologies and hugs are offered by the family or patient. Explanations of upcoming procedures are even better received after all the stress is released. I am not yelled at often, but when I am, I remind myself to take a breath, listen, and remember it's not me they are attacking. Stress is an ugly thing and I can't imagine going through what any of patients and families are having to deal with. Kudos to all my little kids dealing with situations adults can barely handle and hugs to all my frazzled mammas and daddies (and other caretakers)!

Thursday Thirteen!

2006-04-20T12:25:00.000-04:00

I'm getting on the Thursday 13 bandwagon! Here are a few interesting tidbits about me!

Thirteen Things about Chana

1. I am a pediatric nurse. I work with babies born too early, kids with cancer, and anything in between.
2. I have 2 Great Danes and 5 cats, if I had more room, I would have more animals!
3. My dad spent some of his childhood in Hawaii and consequently has introduced me to some interesting foods...Rock Salt Plum (basically a prune with a pit...sweet and salty at the same time), Li Hing Mui (dehydrated plum with pit..sweet taste..slightly salty), Salty Seeds (same as Li Hing Mui but very salty), Rock Salt Lemon (lemon rind left in rock salt in the sun for a while until they are brown and gooey...don't eat too much...send ya runnin' to the bathroom)
4. I have rarely been taller than anyone..I am only five feet tall...most of the patients I take care of are taller than me!
5. I have swam with the stingrays and Stingray City in Grand Cayman. Very cool and they were so soft and velvety. They swam over and around you like little puppies wanting a treat.
6. I went skiing for the first time last January in Breckenridge, CO. After I said the "f" word more than a couple times, I got the hang of it and loved it.
7. Clutter makes me nervous. If my kitchen counter, dresser, floor, etc. has too much "stuff" gathering, it makes me feel hectic and crazy inside and I gotta clear it off.
8. But, I'm not a clean freak. I like a clean house but if something else is going on that would be more fun, I'm there.
9. I call my "stepdad" my BONUS dad. I hate the word "step." He is more than a "stepdad", I love him like a second dad and therefore refer to him as my bonus!
10. I don't have car payments.
11. I need to get back in the gym. Not for weight loss reasons, just b/c I like to remain active. Damn this blogging!
12. I have brown, naturally curly hair...and I love it!
13. I believe everything happens for a reason!

Links to other Thursday Thirteens!
Carmen Feathers IvoryFrog Mommy-at-home Norma Lauren Mandy Mar

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What's going on in that iPOD?

2006-04-19T18:17:00.000-04:00

I am sitting here, enjoying an ice cold Saranac Pale Ale, surfing the net as is my usual schedule after working an all nighter. Today, I am searching for new tunes.
I always have a hard time answering the question, "What is your favorite type of music?" Truth is, I don't have a type. I can have Enya and Enigma gracing my airwaves one minute and have Godsmack or Nickelback rock them out the next.

Music is my expression. I don't play music, compose, or write lyrics, but I sure do like searching for the next prospective band or individual who can move my soul, mind, and yes, booty. I've got a song for every mood. I even have songs that remind me of individuals and times in my life...don't we all? Whenever I feel my words may fail me and I need to tell someone something, I will find the perfect song to help me out.

Here are the tunes that are dancing in my ears right now:

Lynden, melodic soul rock out of Nashville. I'm in love with their song "I'm on Fire." One of those bands that you just have to say, "You just need to listen for yourself." A band that immediately when I heard them sent me to their MySpace page (I originally heard them on a friend's profile).

Faktion, a new rock band out of Dallas. My friend bought their CD in the "New Bands" section at Target and said she thought of me when she listened to it. I have to admit, she knows me well. Their song, "Letting You Go", is one song dominating my MP3 player at the moment. I, personally, would've judged a book by the cover and thought they were some young, punk band professing how they hated life. I was pleasantly surprised when I actually heard melodies, words I understood, and lyrics that made sense.

Trickknee, honest, clean, well-rounded music out of Charleston, SC. That's right! My hometown! Not only that, but one of my high school friends is in the band! Their song, "Crawl", played over and over on my computer today. I actually heard them play live first..they rocked! In this day of manufactured singers and bands, I am always on the look out for those who are just as good live, if not better, as they are on CD! Nothing worse than going to a show and listening to off tune singing and a band that sounds like they have never played a musical note in their life. No worries of that with Trickknee, they are pure, true, unadulterated talent. Way to go boys!

What? Do I stink or something?

2006-04-18T16:35:00.000-04:00

You Are A Good Friend

You're always willing to listen
Or lend a shoulder to cry on
You're there through thick and thin
Many people consider you their "best friend"!

What Kind of Friend Are You?

Really? Many consider me a "best friend"? I sure don't feel that way lately. Perhaps, I just have too much time on my hands. I don't know, either way, today has been an introspective day. To find out why, visit MySpace and read my blog titled, "I've Got a Friend Who Loves Me." Go ahead, I'll wait. Back? Pitiful, little sob story, huh? I have these days where something I hear, see, or smell will trigger memories of the past. Sometimes, they send me on a path lined with feelings of jubilation and thoughts that I have had such wonderful experiences then there are times I veer off course and head towards "self pity", thinking "Those were good times, why did they have to end?" Right now, I'm on the path of self pity.

Aww...poor me....noone calls me to go out or just say hey--I've heard the gammut of excuses with this one: "You're married", "You work nights and I don't know when you sleep", "We didn't think you'd go there", or "You wear purple and I hate that color"--just kidding with that one, but that's how trivial it sounds to me at times. My cell phone has never been one to blow up and ring off the hook with friends just wanting to catch up or tell me the latest gossip..that's the story of my life..I'll say.."Did you hear Sue and Joe broke up?"--yeah like a month ago! WTF? Sometimes it feels like I am the last one to know things, hear about and get invited to events. My husband and I joke that noone ever comes to our house, which is true, but we are halfway being serious..passive aggressive maybe? I try not to take it personal, but sometimes it's hard not to! Hell, I can't even get but a couple to do bulletins I post on MySpace..and we all know how deep those are (wink, wink).

It's all just a funk I am in. Sometimes I do feel like I am struggling to "fit in" and be included with my friends. Am I not fun enough? Do I challenge people too much? Am I too much of a thinker? I am 27 years old..shouldn't I be at peace with who I am and past all these feelings of self doubt? That's ok, Ben and Jerry are always there for me when I need 'em and know just how to make me feel better!

"What does it all mean, Bazzle?"

2006-04-18T02:33:00.000-04:00

I love blogging and surfing other people's blogs. It's all very fun and I am learning more about the computer than I ever thought I would understand. I have come a long way from the days when I was asking advice on how to get credits on BlogMad. I must've driven those people nuts that night on the shout box. Oh, but they were ever so patient with me. Still, I feel very accomplished with the fact that I changed my template, set up links (some even have buttons!), and placed a "Rent-my-blog" section. Wow! All I ever wanted to do was get on blogger, say a few things that constantly run through my mind, and have a few people who have been so luckly to stumble upon my site read what's going through my head at various moments.

Still, after learning how to do all that I still can't set up a BlogRoll or understand what RSS feed is! I have tried to set up the BlogRoll link numerous times and all it says when I click on it, is "Error on Page." WTF? What am I doing wrong? I want to link and be "blogrolled" but can't seem to get myself straight.

I don't know what RSS is, except that it has to do with syndication and increasing traffic? Hell, all I know is that I do have some type of syndication called ATOM...past that....I have...well, no idea.

Tagged? Do I want to be "tagged?" Thursday 13? What is all this? Am I way out of the loop? Should I know this stuff? Help me out people...I want to be part of the blogger "in-crowd!"

A Little Easter Humor

2006-04-16T17:57:00.000-04:00

Although, Easter eggs and bunnies aren't the reason I celebrate Easter, I still find it fun to dye eggs and send the kids on Easter Egg hunts. I also didn't miss the humor in this! Happy Easter everyone!

Indesicisive? ME?

2006-04-15T18:04:00.000-04:00

"Where do you want to eat?", he asks. "I don't care, where do you want to eat?", I say. "Outback," he answers. "No, there's nothing there I really like," I say, but not offering a suggestion b/c I honestly don't have any idea what I want. "Ok, how about, Olive Garden," he patiently suggests. "Um, no, doesn't sound good to me" I say as I sheepishly glance at him to see a frustrated look cloud his face. Oh Lord, I think, here it comes. "Damn, woman, what are you hungry for? Help me out?!" "Sorry," I tell him, " I really just don't know what I want."

The above is actual conversation between Jaime and I on numerous date nights. Yeah, I am a bit indecisive. I would rather like to think of myself as mysterious and unpredictable. I thought men were supposed to like that! I guess it's not such an attractive feature when bellies are empty and blood sugars are low.

Luckily, with my mom's help, we have solved the problem of deciding where to eat. Obviously, I can tell you where I DON'T want to go, so instead of asking "Where DO you want to eat?", ask "Where DON'T you want to eat?" I list my "do not want list" and from there he gets to pick.

Hey, it's worked so far and who knows, could've even saved my marriage. My mom's so smart.

Now, if I could only decide what to wear to dinner...

Umm..It was Blogging's fault!

2006-04-15T00:55:00.000-04:00

Finally! One of my girlfriends is free for lunch during the week! Not just any girlfriend, but the one who is a single mom to 3 and attending undergrad classes in prep for law school. Her time is precious and I am getting a piece! I felt so honored...no, I am being serious. She is one of my good friends from high school and conversation is always interesting and fulfilling.

On Wednesday, we made a lunch date for 12:30 on Friday. OMG...what do I wear? how do I do my hair? I get to wear makeup...YES! You'd think I had never been out in public before. I had big plans for the day. I would get up, give the dogs plenty of attention, beautify myself, go to lunch, and then go get my passport photo and other non-fun but essential errands. I went to bed ecstatic and set my alarm for 9.

Instead of waking up to the buzzing of an alarm, I woke up to Atlas (one my Danes) whining. Never a good sign. Usually means I have slept too long. I looked at my clock...9:10. Ok, we're good. I get up and glance at my husband's clock...12:10. What??? I ran downstairs and checked the other clocks...hoping they would agree with MY clock. Nope! Damn! So much for my hopes and dreams of beauty for the day! I hurriedly got dressed, texted my friend-"I'm still coming--overslept and not b/c I had fun last night either..tell ya later", fed and medicated the dogs, slapped on a hat, attempted to make myself look less like "I just woke up..sorry" with a bit of mascara and blush, and was out the door at 12:30.

I arrived by 1:00 and had a great lunch and even better conversation. I had to fess up that I was late b/c I hadn't gotten to bed until 3 a.m. due to blogging and my body apparantly thought sleep was more important than my need for human interaction. Luckily, she is a "my-spacer" and fully understood. Always nice to have common ground, dontcha think?

Woo Hoo...I have a renter!!

2006-04-14T17:17:00.000-04:00

How excited am I at this very moment? Well, for lack of a better word or phrase, VERY. I have a renter! I can't say "new renter" yet b/c she is my first. That's right...no longer a virgin to the "rent my blog" game. So, does that make me a blogging whore now?? Eh..whatever..I'll accept the title, after all I am allowing someone to use my space for "cyber money."

Anyway, make sure you check Erin out over at Pupsickle. Stories from Alaska! Cool! I mean, you have to have some good ones when it's 21 degrees in April!

Scroll on down and click her! Erin, hope your stay is good as you hoped it would be! I'll be right down the hall, let me know if you need anything....

Let's Face It..I Need Change

2006-04-14T00:22:00.000-04:00

I can't stand being in the same place, same routine, same anything, for that matter, for too long. I gotta have change. It's a wonder I have been with my husband 9 years (married 5 of them). Not saying he's boring, I just have a habit of needing to change things up once in a while. I'm not ADD or anything, but I get so bored when things become stagnant. I don't even paint my walls anything but neutral b/c I know if I do, I'm stuck with it. Paint 'em neutral than I can change the things around it. I think it's genetic. My grandmother is the queen of changing the decor and furniture arrangement in her house. Good thing none of us are blind, her house would be a health hazard for us.

A 9-5, 5 day a week job would definitely not work for me. I like being in the position I'm in and having complete control over my schedule. I like change so much that not only am I able to change the days I work however I want, I work on different floors each time I'm there. Keeps it exciting and interesting. Maybe one day I'll have a routine. I suppose I really do, I have a routine of being non-routine.

So, that being said, it should come as no surprise that I changed my template...again. I actually changed it twice tonight. The first change had a really cool graphic that drew me in, but that was really the only visually interesting part about it. I need visual stimulation. Yeah, I know that content is more important than appearance, but let's face it, the blog world is no different than the real world. The more attractive you are, the more attention you get.

I am still tinkering and tweaking. I know, the sidebar still says, "Insert Tagboard...." and I am waiting to find a cool tagboard or some other such thing to insert there. Well, once I learn how!
Be patient, stick around, slowly but surely I am learning. Hell...I finally learned how to insert my BLOGMAD button tonight and linking it to my referral code and not Photobucket!

Putting It Into Perspective

2006-04-12T12:20:00.000-04:00

http://kcsun3.tripod.com/id210.htm

Ahhhh...finally getting to sit down! Not something a nurse on a Pediatric Sub-Speciality unit gets to do very often. There is always chemo to be hung, blood products to infuse, urine to measure, IV medicines to give, and some type of bodily fluid that needs testing. Don't forget the child who is alone and needs entertaining or closer observation...challenge enough on day shift, but night shift calls for creative thinking. Many a child have ended up at the nurse's desk for dance contests, coloring sessions, and naps in a makeshift crib in an oversized wagon.

My feet were aching and I was just catching my breath and then I hear it. The call bell. That undeniable, persistent ringing! I go towards the sound and pick up the receiver, "Can I help you?", I try to say invitingly. "I GOTTA GO POTTY!", a frantic, little voice says. "Ok, I'm coming, " I say back to her in my best little girl voice (which isn't too hard for me).

I enter her room and she's doing the pee-pee dance while sitting in the bed. "Let's go," I gently and playfully encourage her. She gets out of the bed and I maneuver the pole behind her in such a way to avoid pulling her IV lines, while giving her enough room to do what she's gotta do. Very expertly, she slides her pink dance leotard with pink and silver sparkle ballet skirt around her IV lines and hops on the potty. I hold her IV lines protruding from her chest up out of her way. This precious little pale skinned, bald headed, bright eyed, freckled nose little girl. Fighting for her life while playing dress up in a pink ballet leotard and draping her ankles and one of her wrists in colorful, oversized plastic bead jewelry. "I like your anklets and bracelet," I tell her. "Yeah, I made one for each foot, " she beams, "and I have one bracelet, I don't have one for this one though, I have to make one."

She pulls her leotard back up, getting it twisted a bit and one of her anklets falls off. "Oops,"she says, as she steps back into it as I hold it up for her. We straighten her leotard and head back back to bed. No sleep yet ! She's found a prize on the way back! A real syringe that the nurses use. Oh boy! "Can you squirt the stuff out for me so I can play with it?", she pleads. "Of course, " I say as I empty the saline into the sink. How can I resist such a cute little face and an even sweeter voice???

I hand the syringe over, she thanks me, and I head back to the desk to check the medication record to see who needs meds next. These children I have the pleasure of interacting with are so amazing. They have faced more adversity in their few short years than most adults have or will ever face. They fight a daily battle to stay healthy and alive. Yet, they don't act sick or say "I can't b/c I'm sick." They are still dancing at the desk with the nurses, coloring pictures, dressing up, making jewelry, and most of the time giving love, hugs, and smiles.

I sit here feeling sorry for myself after a busy night at the hospital and feeling spread too thin. Then I remember ALL the children that have and will enhance my life. The hiliarous comments they make (a very well spoken 2 year old once told me, "OOOOH, Don't you cut your eyes at me," when I rolled my eyes playfully at her after she said something funny), the pictures and jewelry they make for us, the pride they display when they get to flush their line, and ultimately getting to see them happy to go home after a hospital stay.

I DO LOVE being a pediatric nurse and I find it hugely rewarding. My families and kids are amazing and have taught me so much about loving life and enjoying every moment you have been given! I have shed both happy and sad tears, but in either case I am grateful to have been touched by the little angels. Thank you to my 7B patients!

Beauty, Love, Harmony

2006-04-09T11:59:00.000-04:00

Sounds like words you hear from hippies or a beauty pageant contestant, right? While that may be true, these words are also key words in the description of a Libra (no need to describe me in this blog, read the link!). I am not into tarot cards, psychics, or astrology as a whole or as a way to live my life, but I do read horoscopes and descriptions of the signs once in a while just out of curiosity. I simply find it interesting. I hardly believe that we are bound to a life of, in my case, of indecisive-ness and an endless search for balance and beauty. We are all individuals and can control the aspects of our personalities and how we interact with others on a day to day basis.

Here's my belief: I choose who I am. I have been given the ultimate gift of free will by God. While He created me and had an idea of who He wanted me to be, he also gave me the choice to go His way or mine/the world's. Perhaps, being born under the alignment of different stars and planets may have influenced aspects of my personality, how am I to know? Maybe that was all part of His plan. I won't know until I move on to Heaven and ask Him myself. However, I do know that I didn't read anything about zodiac signs or the description of a Libra until late in high school and I was amazed at how much it described aspects of my personality! However, I didn't use that to say, "Oh, that's just who I am destined to be." I simply said, "AHHHH....interesting."

For me, seeing my personality described so accurately in hard copy has helped me to recognize the positives and negatives. I don't think any of us are locked into being "gullible or easily influenced" or "indecisive and changeable"---a few negative descriptions of a Libra. We choose to grow or stay stagnant. Personally, I want to continue to blossom and nurture new buds of personal growth. I am on a constant quest of becoming who GOD ultimately wants me to be, not what some astrologer says I should be b/c I was born on October 16, 1978.

Mishi-Mishi-Moo!

2006-04-07T14:48:00.000-04:00

Dear Pop-Pop,
The weather is warm, the flowers are blooming, the gardens are growing, and I think of you when I smell fresh cut grass or see a fat, red, ripe tomato. It's funny how a smell, a sound, or a texture can make us remember someone or something. I am introducing the world to you. Everyone should know what a beautiful, selfless, fiercely independent, and passionate man you were. I love you more than words will ever be able to do justice. World...meet my Pop-Pop....

There are those people you meet and forget, then there are those that you meet that you are absolutely captured by. They steal your heart and touch you in such a way that you know when they are gone there will be a huge void. That's my Pop-Pop. I sit here now and tears softly roll down my cheeks. Pop-Pop was the type of man that wanted to see everyone happy. Whether it was cooking a delicious meal,building cash register scanners from wood, or sharing the fruits of his labor from his garden, he wanted everyone to have a smile on their face. He supported each and every whim, no matter how trivial or how much work it may take. He painted the kitchen whatever color my grandmother wanted, changed the countertops, put in different floors, built a deck...you said you wanted something, you got it! Although, he drew the line at getting a pool...

Pop-Pop was the most SELFLESS man I have ever known. He was a young, hot Navy man traveling the world, enjoying freedom, and exotic women in every port. No responsibilities except himself. Then he met my grandmother and her 4 little girls. Most men would have ran the other way. Not my Pop-Pop. Instead, his heart melted and he fell in love with my grandmother and her 4 little girls. He took them into his heart and protective embrace as if they were his own flesh and blood. He was more than a father, he was a DADDY. Father's are the ones that donate the DNA, but daddies are the ones that guide, protect, love unconditionally, and encourage. they have a genuine desire to see you happy and doing well. He was the very definition of Daddy and Grand-daddy.

He never took himself too serious as you can tell by the pictures. He was a ham! He got such a kick out of Mandy and I and the things we made up. I never lived down "Who ever saw a man eat a hat?", a Laurel and Hardy routine from their movie "Way Out West." He always asked Mandy to say "Mishi-Mishi-Moo", her word for Mitsubishi.

His girls were his pride and joy. He loved them in a way that it moved him to tears, loved his grandchildren with equal fervor, and couldn't get enough of his only great-grandchild, Tyler. While he was stubborn man when it came to slowing down his activity level due to his heart, sometimes cranky and impatient with idiotic drivers or lights that took too long to change, he was a marshmallow inside and full of emotion, a book about the Navy would move him to tears. Weddings were definitely off limits. He embraced our husbands, but lovingly referred to all boyfriends as "Chester" until we married.

Give, Give, Give and ask nothing in return. Whether it was taking me on base to grocery shop or tolerating my dogs, he enjoyed seeing us happy no matter the cost to him. We were at the commissary one time and he was buying treats for Rosie (my grandmother's cat) and I said, "I thought you didn't like cats," he looked at me and said, "But Mamama does." I thought how very cool it was that the happiness of my grandmother was more important than his fear of cats.

My Pop-Pop. A selfless man with a bottomless heart filled with nothing but love. Passionate about nature and a gentle soul. I miss him but I know he is enjoying his garden in heaven and his body is whole and his heart will never give out. He sends us signs on a daily basis to let us know that he is watching over us. The martin's are nesting at mom's and my banana plants are thriving. He is encouraging us to live our lives to the fullest and without regret. Thank you to my Pop-Pop for being in our lives and loving us with all your heart and then some!!!

7 Deadly Sins Quiz and Thoughts about Work

2006-04-06T16:05:00.000-04:00

Greed:	Medium
Gluttony:	Medium
Wrath:	Low
Sloth:	Medium
Envy:	Very Low
Lust:	Very Low
Pride:	Low

Take the Seven Deadly Sins Quiz

According to this quiz I am bordering on "lazyass." I'm really not, I just enjoy my time off! My theory is I work hard when I am there, put in the hours I NEED to support my lifestyle, and then it's playtime. I do put in OT every now and then, but I really am not a career driven person, nor have I ever been. I guess my definition of work is a little different than the quiz had in mind. I work hard at having and enjoying a LIFE! Work is not my life, I work to have a life. And I'm through!

Hi, I'm Chana and I'm a Bloggoholic

2006-04-05T18:40:00.000-04:00

I spent all day on myspace today. I know, what a life. Well, I do have an excuse. I worked all night last night and usually sleep for a couple hours when I get home. Well, I wanted to blog and learn how to make it prettier instead of sleep.

My friend, Jen, invited me to her myspace and I said, "What the hell, I'll try it too." Check it out, I found a layout and it's pretty, I added pictures, music, and even a CUSTOMIZED blog!! It's very self explanatory and I like it alot better, except for the posting pics to blogs. They have to have a URL and I just am not there yet. Time to learn Photobucket or something.

Off to search for graphics. I found the above but it is made for myspace and therefore I must copy to computer and it loses it's neon glow effect. Still cute I suppose. One of these days it'll be fun to look back at what a novice I am!

Still Clueless

2006-04-05T03:28:00.000-04:00

www.cartoonclipart.com

The more I surf different blogs, the more I am dissatisfied with mine. I really want a customized, pretty little blog where I can add cool images and make it fun to look at. Express myself. Use some creative energy! I just don't understand all the terms thrown at me..html, FTP this, and CSS that. WTF???--I DO know what that means! I come, I type, I click on publish and there you go. I do know how to add pics and links though! I am posting at work tonight, so no pics for ya right now. I did add some on the pup's website:
http://www.addisondanes.blogspot.com

I had a busy day. Life never stops does it?? Always something to do. I had a 2 hour competency class to attend after I worked a 12 hour night shift. Ah, competencies. A time when I get to go demonstrate how smart I am and show off the skills I have. If I worked on one unit, I would only get to do this once. BUT, I work on 8 different units and I get to do it at least twice a year. Oh! and there are always different classes for new machines they are bringing to the hospital, new IV catheters, new gizmos to hold the IV's in place, new tubing, etc. Such fun! It never ends...
So, I showed the ladies this morning that I can assemble a breast pump--heaven forbid I screw that up---and I can tape an umbilical vein IV catheter correctly--actually I didn't even show I could, I just watched. Either way, those competencies are done for a year. Bring on the next one...I can do anything now that I can correctly put together a breast pump!

I got my first "mean" comment today on the pup's blog. The Trollmeister pretty much told me he wished he hadn't even wasted time on reading the blog. Well, I wish he hadn't either. Sorry to waste your precious time that you obviously value so highly. Told me it was DULL. Eh, whatever. Guess he missed the point of it's creation. I went to his blog and really find much interesting there, either. To each their own I was once told when I started this whole blogging mess. We are all interesting in our own minds.....

Just a taste

2006-04-03T17:37:00.000-04:00

Hello all! Should I give up all the details now or give you bits and pieces here and there to keep you coming back for more?? Hmmm...decisions, decisions. It's like the dating game...does a girl play hard to get when she really might be head over heels in like/love or does she just go ahead and let the guy know she is really interested. It's all a game. Glad I'm out of that. One of the many perks of marriage...no more dating. Well, I guess some still date while they are married, but as for me, I am done! I look around when we are out and see all the games people are playing with one another and just think, "Thank you Lord for getting me out of that mess."

I married when I was 22. He was 25. I am now 27. I work as a pediatric nurse here in Charleston, SC at MUSC. I was a labor and delivery nurse for 2 years before I switched to peds. I love it and can't imagine ever going back to work with adults. My husband is an aspiring business owner in the speed and performance business. Cars are his passion but right now his job as an Electrical Engineering Technician with the defense contractor EMA pays the bills.

We have 2 Great Danes and 5 cats. No, we don't have a huge house (1600 sq. ft) or a huge yard (it's enough). The Danes take over the couches, sleep in our king size bed with us, and only take about 30-60 minutes of moderate exercise to get good and tired. They are our children!!!

There's a small morsel for you. Savor it. I promise to start sprucing the place up a bit and make it more visually exciting. I am still learning! For now, I have to go make myself presentable so I don't scare the little children tonight! Curly hair can look quite frightening when untamed!