Ann Michele's World

Sportsmanlike

2018-02-09T11:39:00.001-05:00

So after leaving a response to Tom Brady's instagram post today found myself being barraged by mean Patriot fans. And they say Eagles fans get a bad rap?

What was interesting is they were pissed that I called their beloved quarterback out on being unsportsmanlike. While yes it's only my opinion, his behavior on the field more than backs it up.

After a game in any sport usually athletes shake hands and loser at least tries to congratulate other team. But after losing Brady has been known to just run off the field without shaking hands which in sports is known as very unsportsmanlike.

After the Eagles Super Bowl win he did exactly that, ran off the field without making an effort to find the Eagles quarterback Foles and shake his hand. After countless playoff wins, five Super Bowl wins you think Brady could show more couth.

It's not only that, if you watch Brady during the season, he has thrown temper tantrums on the sidelines, and what looks like yelling at the coaches. That to fans of football who are watching comes across not only unsportsmanlike but rather divaish behavior.

It's not just Tom Brady, other athletes have been known to do it here and there as well. But today it just happened to be able Brady.

Of course his fans took to quickly defending his behavior saying it was a huge lost he had the right to act that way. No sorry he doesn't, and why does our society always try to excuse poor behavior away?

Here is a image shot of exactly the comment I made to Tom Brady.

Felt my comments were right on target. Brady has been in the league a lot longer than Foles or Wentz. But Foles and Wentz have a maturity, sportsmanlike, respect, quiet character that is not only reflected in their game play but off the field as well. They aren't the types to disrespect a coach by yelling at them on the sideline or avoiding a handshake because they lost a game. Both would tell you failure is part of life and playing sports it's what makes them better people. But Brady with all his years of experience has had plenty of time to adjust to losing football games yet he continually handles it poorly. And so I do think he might learn something from spending a little time with both Foles and Wentz. Shaking their hands would be a great start. :)

They say true character is actually revealed during tough times. What's even better is his fans showed their true character and unsportsmanlike behavior by lashing out with bullying behavior and name calling in response to my comment.

Charliecoes called me "naive" went on a rant about how many super bowls Brady has won, not getting the point that it's not about that at all; bryan_a.spam_ told me Brady was too upset over losing and to "f**k off scrub"; blanchedevereaux07 called me a "dummy and then said "stfu". I responded back to all three with kind words, copied Brady in as well to point out how not so nice his fans are and went about my day. What I liked to remind all three was it was opinion which I'm free to express, never once did I resort to name calling or swearing and that they all showed their true unsportsmanlike side by how they choose to respond as well.

We live in a our society that needs to learn the art of sportsmanlike actions and behaviors as they are not only important in sports but in life as well. Sportsmanlike is defined as the following....

Fair, respectful, and polite toward other players when participating in a sport.

But isn't that how we should treat all people, everyday? It shouldn't matter if we agree or disagree with people, whether we win or lose, etc.. It's a matter of having character and the those things that define sportsmanlike are essential to building character.

Again just an opinion but something to think about.....

Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl Champions

2018-02-05T12:21:00.002-05:00

That headline says it all.

Philadelphia has waited decades for a win such as this.

But this season it really means something. It's not just about one player, this season was about a bunch of athletes who came together to create something great. Some gave up large salaries, some donated their salary to local schools, when players went out injured others were there to step up to the challenge. When the franchise QB who was on his way to an MVP season got injured the backup QB stepped in, a backup that many seemed to already write off.

They said we couldn't win but what do the experts know. One game was all we needed for this miracle team to show who they were and to win a Super Bowl. So many on the team believed and trusted in their faith that they could. Some historical statistics were even set. The win felt almost like divine intervention at times had a hand.

Magical finish to a magical season. And Nick Foles and Carson Wentz both bring a faith and inspiration to Philadelphia that has been sorely missing and is much appreciated. Bring on the parade.

Congratulations Philadelphia Eagles on the Super Bowl win. True Champions!

Blogging

2018-01-05T16:48:00.000-05:00

Not sure what I'm doing anymore with this blog. the reasons why I first started writing made sense and still do. But my ability to write freely and often seems to have changed.

There are moments where I feel like writing but don't make the effort. Other times where I feel like writing but not quite sharing my truths with the world. There are times where I feel like there is so much to write about and other moments where I can't seem to muster anything to write about. And posting photos is something I've become even worse at. But I didn't create this blog to babble or write about just anything. It was originally created as journal.

It just feels like this space needs a makeover of sorts. Maybe a name change as I'm just not feeling ann micheles world anymore yet ann michele is of course taken. And not feeling all that creative at the moment to come up with something different either.

Then there is the man who isn't particularly fond of me talking about him on my blog. Think he would prefer I just not write anything. But that's okay because I'm not fond of him working on his sportsboss website all the time either. So when he wants to give up his little website I'll be fine with giving up mine because it would be a good compromise. Until then figure will write when I feel like it.

The new year always brings this sense of wanting to make changes and reflecting back on the past. Though they say not to dwell on the past yet I for one find it harder the older I become not to.

The other night had this calming dream about just floating on rather huge waves to get to where I was going. It was an interesting dream. Of course it made me want to take a vacation to the beach. That's something the man and I have to get better with. Even if it's just taking mini vacations. But traveling with a dog can be tricky especially Cooper who loves to bark. We used to take Angel every where but she was a much calmer dog who actually listened. Cooper is a little rebel who prefers not to always listen which makes taking him places much more difficult.

Anyway, think I'm going to try to get better with writing but we'll see how it goes.

Monday Musings

2018-01-01T22:11:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year!

It's been so long since I posted, not sure if that's good or bad.

The year was so busy it felt like it flew by, hard to believe the new year is upon us.

Kind of bummed that I didn't get to document all the adventures in writing, all the feelings and thoughts along the way. While I tried it felt harder to put into words. Blogging took a back seat to actually just being in the present. Which is what life should be right?

Anyway, goals or resolutions....

Engage in life. Chase adventure. Play more. Love deeply. Be kind. Keep growing. Adopt a dog.

Shower Cooper in more love. And try hard to get the man to disengage from his computer and phone to engage in more fun and real moments together.

This says it best.

Monday Musings

2017-11-06T10:56:00.002-05:00

Well the weather has been so warm lately that the thought of cold temperatures arriving this week has me almost panicked. Cold weather just makes it so much harder to get and stay motivated.

I've been terrible at writing lately, promptly me to wonder should I even write here anymore. But it's a nice outlet for thoughts so tend to keep it around.

Spent last weekend trying to catch up around the house. Had Salvation Army coming to pick up household stuff, and wanted to clean out more to give them as well. What's amazing is all the proceeds from the stuff they sell in their stores goes to fund their rehab centers. It's nice to know where the proceeds go, hopefully it's helping some to recover and find a straighter path.

Although I did spend over 3 hours watching the Penn State vs Ohio State game as well Saturday afternoon, only to be completely disappointed when Ohio State came back and won the game. That's the downside of sports. ha

Halloween rolled around and for two days it turned chillier, of course for the holiday right? Bought a huge bag of candy, 250 pieces to be exact but only went through maybe half the bag. Just not that many kids around I suppose, and some it seemed didn't even venture out that night. So we have been nibbling on the leftovers. :)

The week was rather busy too. My little nephew had to visit some specialists as he's had some GI issues and doesn't eat all that much, on top of it thyroid tests came back abnormal. If they remain that way after next test he will have to take some thyroid medicine as it's a crucial hormones during those early developmental years. So I met my sister at the doctors office to be there as help for her and to be able to hear what the doctors thought.

The nephew and I were out running errands Friday together, it's always a hoot trying to get these high tech strollers in and out of car. So many moving parts of them, and when one gets stuck I'm left trying to figure out how to get it unstuck. But wanted to get back home as the weather was so warm, it was perfect day for being outside.

This weekend seemed just as busy. Friday tried to clean things up as Saturday had a lot to catch up on. Our bathroom shower drain had a rather big back up during the week, which required a plumbers attention, that left a mess to clean up in the bathroom. (my least favorite room to clean as the chemicals are way too overwhelming)

Sunday was all about fun. We went to the Eagles vs Broncos game in Philly. Tickets on the 40 yard line allowed for a good view of the game. Did some tailgating before the game. The portable charcoal grill comes in handy now, not only can be tailgate with it but the heat from it acts like a mini heater of sorts. The forecast was for 65, clouds and drizzle. It started off chilly so layered up well, but turns out the sun decided to peak out and warm things up. So two layers had to come off at the start of the game. Pretty much everyone around us was peeling off layers.

In Philly one is never quite sure how the fans will react to a fan of the opposite team. Philly sports fans are not known as being the nicest. So going when the man who is a Broncos fan definitely made me slightly nervous. His promise to play it low key pretty much fell through as he sported his bright orange jersey. The man is notorious for say one thing do another. Luckily we had some nice fans around us who took a few playful jabs at the man but nothing nasty. Of course when the Eagles beat the Broncos 51-23 think the fans would tend to be a tad nicer.

We had some Sixers players sitting not far behind us too. And young lovers in front of us who were making out more than watching the game. Hey I'm a romantic so would never complain about something like that, just wish it was us doing the making out not them. :) If only people showed more love and less hate the world might be a much better place!

Going to such a game though is a long day, we left at 9 and got home around 7. The traffic is absolutely insane, we even tried hanging out at a bar close by for a little to avoid some of it but it was still heavy by the time we made our way home. Funny too because the man said how he needed to stay awake until at least 10 but he was pretty much out by 8.

It's amazing this time of year how one day the lawn is perfectly clear and next covered in leaves. I've been getting estimates on our front tree, as the tree is not only huge but not in great shape. Two weeks ago a large chunk fell just missing the man's car. The tree was improperly trimmed years ago which is made it regrow and form weakened areas that are rather dangerous. The prices to take it down though are way higher than we expected. But it might be worth it, in long run it would actually save money and time. Not to mention help the lawn and surrounding flower beds. But it's hard to put that kind of money into taking down a tree. Something to really think about for sure.

And I'm must realizing that by the time I post this is will be Tuesday already.

Monday Musings

2017-10-23T17:17:00.001-04:00

So enjoying this beautiful, warm summer like weather. Even if they are saying rain tomorrow. I don't even mind the rain it's the wind we could do without as it will only knock the leaves off too soon.

The week was busy as usual.

The weekend was filled with family pumpkin picking, birthday celebrations on Saturday and cleaning the garage on Sunday for me. Fun things always seem to go way too fast, especially when they involve spending it with people who mean the world to you. You just want to some how bottle those moments.

Today has been a whirlwind....taking care of nephew, trying to get three loads of laundry done before they start flushing out the fire hydrants in area which causes water to look odd, grocery shopping, cutting lawn, raking of pine needles, bike ride and who knows what else. I'm too sore and tired to even think right now.

The man some how thinks fall signals no outdoor work, when in reality it may involve more work than summer. Supposedly he says our lawn blower is too much for him to handle so has given up on blowing, which leaves a mess of sorts. He's the one that sought out and wanted to buy a powerful one but now it turns out what we really need is a lightweight version. Guessing he will eventually hire a lawn service as the man just isn't the outdoor type nor does he like a lot of work.

Haven't felt much like writing, guess all the doing has let me wanting to try to relax upon sitting down. Who knows.

Quite frankly even right now I'd rather be baking, maybe a pound cake. Yup sounds like a plan!

Woof Wednesday

2017-10-11T18:09:00.004-04:00

Welcome to Woof Wednesday. Please meet some great dogs from CA, NY, PA and TX all in need of good, loving homes!

Coco is a Labrador Retriever mix who is around 6 years old. She is sitting in the county shelter hoping to find a family who will love her lots and maybe even want to play too. Please lets find her a loving home!

Coco - Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles County Animal Control - Carson

216 West Victoria Street

Gardena, CA 90248

(310) 523-9566

animalinfo@animalcare.lacounty.gov

http://animalcare.lacoounty.gov

_______________________________________________

Tobie is a Beagle/Basset Hound mix who is has lots of love to give. This beagle mix may love lounging on his bed, but he's always up for a day on the town. He'll do his best to keep up with you (but no promises). He'd love to be part of your family, and you're going to love him for being part of yours. Please lets find him a great home!

Tobie - New York, NY

Best Friends Animal Society New York

New York City, NY 10011

AdoptNYC@bestfriends.org

http://ny.bestfriends.org

_______________________________________________________

Brianna is a 6 month old female mixed breed. She and her sister were strays and pretty scared of people. In fact, they had to be trapped and brought into rescue where the socialization began. Brianna was very timid of people and still stays back as you go toward her to pet her. Even cornered, she never shows aggression, just fear. She has a scary puppy hood as a stray and was unable to trust humans. She was on the run just trying to find food and stay alive. She easily takes treats from your hand and you can pet her. She needs someone who will take time to earn her trust. Consistent gentleness and love is the key to her heart. She just started wearing a harness and will begin leash training. Brianna loves her elevated dog bed and running after toys or her sister. She gets along great with other dogs too but hasn't been around a cat. She is a beautiful red color with a white chest and paws and has very expressive eyes. She is in a kennel with a dog house and a grassy area. She is used to going to bathroom on that grass and not on cement. Brianna is a work in progress but is sweet and healthy. She will make a great snuggle bunny someday. In fact, the progress she has made in just a month is amazing. If you would love to help Brianna learn to relax and open her heart to you, then apply for her. She is a wonderful dog who got a bad deal from birth until rescue saved her at 6 months old. Please lets find her a good home!

Brianna - Yardley, PA

Crossing Paths Animal Rescue

Yardley, PA 19067

yardleydogs2@aol.com

http://www.xpar.org

___________________________________________________

King is a Collie mix who is 3 years old and 75 lbs. He looks like an old time Scotch collie or and English shepherd. King is always HAPPY! He has an exceptional temperament. He is sweet and gentle. King knows basic commands, such as "come," "sit," "down," "shake.," and his favorite, "kiss." He walks nicely on leash and loves walks. He rides well in the car (although he may climb a seat to get closer to people.) King is reliably housebroken and crate trained. He eats and sleeps quietly in his crate. He should do fine loose in the house. He is very quiet in general. King has nice house manners. He does not get on the furniture. King gets along with dogs of all sizes and genders. He likes to play with other dogs. He has not lived with cats but ignored the cat during his cat test. He cannot live with chickens. King enjoys playing with stuffed toys, rope toys, and balls. He will play fetch. He loves all humans, including children. He enjoys pets, scratches, and giving kisses. King is adaptable and will be a wonderful addition to most homes. Please lets find him a loving home!

King - Stafford, TX

Houston Collie Rescue

PO Box 526

Stafford, TX 77497

(281) 564-6852

houcollierescue@yahoo.com

http://www.houstoncollierescue.org

No paw left behind our mission!

{Please keep in mind a dog is lifetime commitment. They need attention, love and time just like we do. In addition, adding a pet to the family does cost money in the way of food, health care, training,etc. So before adopting make sure you are willing to make that kind of commitment and have the resources to do so.}

If you want to be a part of Woof Wednesdays email Ann Michele, Lauren or leave a comment. Or simply start posting about dogs in need of a home on your blog or facebook page

Monday Musings

2017-10-09T19:24:00.002-04:00

Weather is tropical...high humidity with rain. But hey I won't complain about rain as the lawn needs it and it means I don't have to water! ;)

Where to start the weekend was great. Friday we grilled some burgers up and caught up on some shows we taped on dvr. Followed by some live pd, watch that show and you will quickly realize just how many crazy, delinquent people exist.

Saturday morning seemed to do a lot of laundry, and other household stuff. But luckily the afternoon was followed by an arts and crafts festival in skippack, pa. Where the man and I just walked around browsing some pretty cool stuff. We had great time and weather was perfect, overall a good date!

Though evening we embarked on putting together his desk he bought for his home office. The box arrived by special shipment as it was 177 lbs. Needless to say the thing is solid, and came with a ton of pieces to put together. Three hours into putting it together Saturday night the man decided he had enough for the day.

So of course Sunday involved reconvening to put it together. It took another 4 hours and decent amount of work but we did it, of course we had football on in the background. After putting mine together I didn't really want any part of putting together another one but some how got roped into it. ha Sunday felt like an exhausting, long day as was going a bunch of stuff before even helping the man put the desk together.

By night we were ready to just chill out. It was all about BBQ slow cooker chicken. And watching some more shows on dvr with a little football mixed in.

Monday has been a whole other story. The nephew arrived with a cold, me being the germ phobic I am felt rattled by that. Especially after all the colds we sustained last year from the little guy. In fact he had a cold this time last year too. You think by now with all the technology there would be something to prevent colds or at least stop them from being so easily transmitted, but alas there is not. And so I will continue to fret. (fret is probably even putting it mildly)

The man stayed home from work because the weekend's work proved too much and he is super sore. Pretty much you can guarantee the man will either go in late or not go in at all on a Monday if we've done a lot on the weekend. He always needs one day to just rest. He's a piece of work that's for sure! ha

I am feeling tired as haven't been getting good sleep. Think good sleep is something we all take for granted, and you only realize it when you aren't getting it. The dizziness for some reason seems to be the biggest contributor to disrupting my sleep. You think sleeping would some how calm it but it seems to instigate it especially if I wake up in certain positions or in certain states of sleep. It really is nuts.

Lack of sleep can make you feel so cranky at times too, it's like stress in a sense it can make any little thing just annoy you. Little things that probably wouldn't annoy you in a normal situation. Like today I read yet another political post bashing the president by a friend on facebook. It took everything in me not to just let loose on her. This one particular girls loves to blame Trump for everything and all I want to say to her is "sweetheart so many of the deeper issues of this country existed long before he did so sit down and shut up" But I maturely refrained myself, had a good laugh and thought to myself why bother stirring the pot. It's not even worth it.

Honestly there are two parties to our political system, both are equally responsible for helping the country and it's people. If one party fails essentially both parties fail because the whole point is to be mature enough to work together for the better of people, to compromise and develop fair solutions. Maybe it's time the people of our country got to vote on everything, not just for our politicians but on the real issues. Our country has become so divided we may as well just split into two countries at this point. Anyway....

That's enough of all that for now. Need to chill out!

Woof Wednesday

2017-10-04T22:19:00.000-04:00

Welcome to Woof Wednesday. Please meet some great dogs from CA, NY, PA and TX all in need of good, loving homes!

Rob is a Jack Russell Terrier around 1 year old. Little guy is just sitting in the shelter lonely and scared. He is hoping to find a family to love, play and snuggle with. Please lets find him a loving home!

Rob A5117300 - Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles County Animal Control - Carson

216 West Victoria Street

Gardena, CA 90248

(310) 523-9566

animalinfo@animalcare.lacounty.gov

http://animalcare.lacounty.gov

_____________________________________________

Minnie is Beagle/Rat Terrier who is 7 months old and 25 lbs. She is very bright and lots of fun. Affectionate and friendly, she gives kisses generously and loves meeting other people and dogs. In her foster home, Minnie happily wrestles with a dog four times her size and is quiet in her exercise pen all night long. By day, she can be very focused on what she wants and vocal about it – typical of her breed make-up. Fortunately, Minnie takes well to training, and is quickly learning to quiet down. Minnie also has been making great progress with some resource guarding behavior she’s displayed. In virtually no time, she’s learned the drop-it command, and now she readily gives up prizes she would have guarded before and can be further convinced with a tasty treat. If you’ve been searching for a beautiful, playful pup with an expressive personality, look no more. One soulful gaze from Minnie’s beautiful brown eyes, and you’ll be hooked. She can keep a non-reactive dog entertained for hours and is also content to cuddle with you. Still just a puppy, she has plenty of time to find her place in your home, and summer’s the perfect time to get to know and love her.Minnie is housebroken and crate trained, and walks nicely on leash. She enjoys playing with other dogs and is friendly toward cats. Children middle school age and older. Please lets find her a great home!

Minnie - New York, NY

Pound Hounds Res-Q

415 West 24th Street, # 1A

New York, NY 10011

poundhoundsresq@gmail.com

https://www.poundhoundsresq.org

______________________________________________

Estella is a Spaniel-Corgi mix, about 2 years old, and weighs 32 lbs.. She certainly has the most incredible thick, wavy, black coat. She is very sweet and loves to be by your side at all times. Stella is great with people dogs and cats. She has an easy-going friendly personality. She's happiest curling up on the couch or bed with her person. Estella does have crate anxiety so can't be crated and a bit of separation anxiety so would do best in a home where someone is home with her most of the day. She's fine with being left for a few hours. Please lets find her a good home!

Estella - Doylestown. PA

Almost Home Dog Rescue

PO Box 132

Doylestown, pa 18901

AlmostHome4Dogs@yahoo.com

http://almosthomedogrescue.rescuegroups.org

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Kerri is a Female Rat Terrier/Chihuahua Mix who is around 1 year old and weighs 12 lbs. She is an adorable sweet young girl. She loves to play with toys, chew on bones, chase balls (and squirrels in our yard), go for walks, and cuddle when it's time to nap. She's fine with our two small dogs (male and female), never aggressive, already spayed, completely potty trained, and sleeps quietly through the night in her crate. Kerri would be best in a relatively active household with a fenced in yard or an owner who would like a companion for jogs and walks. She is very polite, but also playful and happy. Please lets find her a loving home!

Kerri - Houston, TX

K-9 Angels Rescue, Inc.

9415 Winsome Ln

Houston, TX 77063

http://www.k-9angelsrescue.org

No paw left behind our mission!

If you want to be a part of Woof Wednesdays email Ann Michele, Lauren or leave a comment. Or simply start posting about dogs in need of a home on your blog or facebook page

We Must Do Better

2017-10-02T17:08:00.000-04:00

It upsets me to read people turning this mass shooting into more political jargon and trying to blame one side. Mass shootings have occurred under both Republican and Democrat leadership. When do we start putting aside parties, differences and whatever else divides us to unite to solve these serious issues plaguing our country?

This time it was a gun, but it could have easily been a car, bomb, knife, chemicals, etc... violence, mental illness, hate, evil, lack of respect for human life, kids growing up lacking ways to achieve better life, gangs, drugs, abuse, corruption and so on have to start being addressed. Our country is filled with violent crimes that take innocent lives everyday in the United States.

When does our country start addressing a failing mental health care system that often times is not covered or too expensive for those who need it. People are talking about gun laws, yet like drugs people will find ways to obtain guns. News is filled with stories of horrific abuse, crimes, violence, trafficking, drug overdoses...when does the country put aside their differences and unite to stop it?

Why can't people stop arguing and try to work together on solving the problems. Why do we keep electing politicians decade after decade who can't unite to address and resolve these issues?

Bigger question is....how do you stop the violence? the drugs? the gangs? the mental breakdowns? the abusers? the weapons? (and all the other issues)

For decades no president or politician has been able to effectively figure it out, nor solve it. And if our politicians and citizens remain so divided and filled with such hatred for each other it will never be resolved.

It's time to do better. To be better human beings. To love more. To hate less. To put aside differences and find effective solutions!

Monday Musings

2017-10-02T17:05:00.000-04:00

Okay so the warm, summer like weather over the weekend gave way to Fall. It was so cool this weekend I actually turned on the heat at night. But have no fear the weather is warming up again!

The week felt long for some reason, kept thinking I was a day or two ahead. It was busy and on top of that still filled with watering the lawn. The lawn needed the aeration and over seeding was just hoping the man would step up more and help with watering. But surprise the sportsboss was too busy with his sports. Sports is also what keeps the man up late then he's grumbling about how hard it is to get up in the morning.

Friday involved cleaning house, the nephew loves to help me with such stuff so did a little while he was here, and plenty more after he left. We are talking whole house, including sheets cleaned by night. Needless to say romance and take out were definitely needed by Friday night! :)

Saturday the man took off for Long Island as his friend was having a 40th birthday celebration. He actually rented a hotel instead of staying with his family. Funny as he has on occasion gotten on my case about not wanting to visit his family home in Long Island but he himself doesn't even want to stay there. It's sad how dysfunctional his family is. No one really communicates effectively or honestly with each other. There's this disconnect with family for him, exactly why the man can't understand why I'm so close to my family.

Meanwhile, I spent Saturday morning working on all sorts of projects. Then went over my family's house to clean closets out. Yes I still had two closets full of stuff at their house. Been putting off cleaning it out thoroughly for years, tried here and there but always had trouble getting rid of stuff. We had bags of bedding, clothing and even shoes for donation. Kept only one small bag of clothing and some shoes of course. Hey if the shoes are good why let them go to waste. ;)

Saturday night I went out to dinner with my mother, we had a great meal. Of course later I laid down to catch up on some dvr shows and dozed off. But then woke up as I was too cold so had to put on the heat, and resumed watching the dvr shows. Since the man was out, knew it would end up being a late night for him, which some how always turns into a late night call to me. That's something he would always do when first dating years ago. But I didn't want my sleep messed up so put it on sleep mode.

Sunday started off with laundry, followed by an early morning bike ride, watering the lawn and then I finally just flopped on the sofa to chill out. Chill out isn't something I do well as eventually seem to get bored.

Awoke today to the news once again filled with horrific, senseless violence which I will comment on more in another post.

Soul Sunday

2017-10-01T11:39:00.000-04:00

Happiness is a state we all want to achieve, but it often seems elusive. Have you ever felt happy one moment and then thought that it won’t last, which makes you feel less happy in the next moment? How frustrating is that?

What is happiness? Is it a state of mind, a mood, or a way of living? Is there a way to increase it?

While there is no magical way to make us happy forever, there is a science of happiness. And when we better understand the nature of happiness, we become more skillful at staying happier, longer.

5 Proven Truths About Happiness

1. About half of our happiness level is controllable.

According to The How of Happiness by researcher Sonja Lyubomirsky, about 40 percent of our happiness is under our control. The other 60 percent is predetermined by biological set points and recent life events. We are all born with different temperaments and, all else being equal, have a tendency to maintain a certain happiness level over our lifetimes, high or low. Some people are just "born happier" than others—think of a smiling baby versus a fussy baby. Life events like getting married, graduating from college, or being promoted can affect our happiness levels, but their effects diminish over time in a process known as “hedonic adaptation.” What was novel and exciting yesterday becomes "the new normal" today. We can, however, reduce the power of hedonic adaptation by deliberately practicing new attitudes and behaviors on a daily basis.

2. A happy life is different from a meaningful life.

Researchers like Roy Baumeister have compared people’s perceptions of happiness versus meaningfulness. There is quite a lot of overlap between the two states: People who see their lives as meaningful are happier, and vice versa. But there are also differences: Happiness seems to be a transient state whereas meaningfulness is more enduring. We experience happiness in the present when our needs are satisfied, while meaningfulness involves tying together the past, present, and future in a way that makes sense and reinforces our positive attributes. For example, having more money may make you somewhat happier, but whether it makes your life more meaningful depends on how you spend it.

3. Quality relationships make us happier.

Harvard University psychiatrist Robert Waldinger conducted a 75-year multigenerational study of students at Harvard and people from Boston’s poorest neighborhoods to determine the causes of health and happiness. He found that the quality of relationships was strongly connected to happiness. Lonely people were less happy and had poorer health, and people with higher-quality social ties were the happiest. But it wasn’t just having a relationship, but having one with a stable and consistently caring person that made the difference. Having lots of acquaintances or being in a relationship with an unreliable or abusive partner did not make people happier.

4. Happy people are more successful.

New research shows that happier people are more productive at work, and more creative and energized than less happy peers. A recent study by economists at the University of Warwick found that workplace interventions to increase happiness made people 12 percent more productive. In another study, they found that employees who were unhappy due to recent life events were 10 percent less productive. Researcher Shawn Achor claims in a TEDx talk that it isn’t success that makes us happy, but happiness that makes us successful. Optimism is the greatest predictor of success as an entrepreneur: It helps you tolerate the down times and maintain your vision even when things don’t go your way. According to Achor, "Only 25 percent of job success is based upon IQ. Seventy-five percent is about how your brain believes your behavior matters, connects to other people, and manages stress.”

5. There are proven ways to increase happiness.
Researchers have found that practicing certain actions, deliberately seeking out positive states of mind, and improving the quality of our relationships can make us happier. These habits require consistent efforts over time: Savor your daily experiences. Pause to delight in the smell of a flower, the sight of a hummingbird, or, like Proust, the taste of a madeleine.

Get involved in meaningful volunteer activities. Research shows that giving to others can make the giver and the receiver feel happier (and seeing less fortunate people can make you more grateful for what you have).

Find a more optimistic point of view. Is there a way to look at your life with more hope or appreciation? Can you focus on your strengths and achievements rather than beating yourself up for your failures?

Practice gratitude. Research shows that writing daily or weekly gratitude diaries or writing letters of appreciation can improve your mood and health.

Meditate. Meditation actually changes areas of the brain related to managing stress and regulating mood. Long-term meditators are more able to find and maintain positive states like joy and compassion. Studies by Richard Davidson and colleagues found that long-term meditators also have increased brain activity in areas related to happiness.

This Soul Sunday post comes from Psychology Today and was written by Melanie Greenberg.

Monday Musings

2017-09-26T18:10:00.000-04:00

Maybe I should rename is Tuesday as that's when I seem to actually write.

Weather has been so summer like it's been unreal, hot and humid. Of course this summer girl is enjoying it but hear the cool fall like weather will be making a return soon. In the meantime, I will try to bask in this warmth!

The week was super busy. Although did have Thursday off but feel is went by quick as I seemed to be watering lawn all day, catching up on errands, hanging shelves and art. Hanging the shelves took a little bit of power, sometimes have bigger ideas and plans than my 100 lb self can tackle by itself.

Honestly I do probably ten times the amount of work around here compared to the man but hey whose keeping count. ;) In fact, he took off Friday and is home today too. It's really nice to have a job with an open vacation policy. We are talking no maximum days off they can take whatever they want. It fits his personality perfectly. (though it's kind of funny as he actually complains about others taking off too many days) ha

Friday the niece came over with the nephew so it was a real busy day. We were pretty much constantly on the go. Checked out a bigger local park, this one we had to drive too but it was worth it as the kids loved it. Had a much bigger jungle gym and this cool safety town where kids can ride bikes or big wheels. It has buildings with lined streets to replicate the real thing. Honestly give me a big wheel and I could have spent some quality time riding around the mini streets. Total kid at heart.

Saturday the man and I were all over. Conshohocken for a funfest, stopped by a cool candy store filled with all types of old school candy and then a trip to Villanova to pick up some things at their bookstore. Followed by a visit to the Campus Corner which has one of the best cheesesteaks in Philly and is quite popular with Villanova students. Then the night was pretty much filled with watching college football and watering the lawn. And of course eating the candy for dessert. Would have liked to had the man for dessert too but the guy was too tired, imagine that. ;)

Sunday I had enough of all this NFL bs, seriously our athletes and celebrities get paid to entertain not to preach politics and disrespect this country. Find other ways to protest their causes but don't impose their views on others who are tuning into watch sports for fun and escape reality for a little. So for first time ever I just boycotted watching. Maybe that's what this country needs to turn off their tvs, phones, computers and do more! That's the thing everyone complains, protests, whines about what's wrong in world but what do any of us actually do to bring about real change?

Do people in this country even realize how good they have it compared to other countries? Hey the United States isn't perfect by any means, and there is still a lot of work to be done in certain areas but it's a better than a lot of the world deals with everyday. Think many people in the United States take for granted what they have, and don't even realize how much others have sacrificed to obtain those things. Anyway....

Not watching felt good as I got a whole lot more accomplished and had fun. Went for a long bike ride, tried a new recipe for slow cooker, baked some carrot cake cupcakes, continued watering the lawn, caught up on a bunch of other household stuff and well you get the gist.

Did I mention I'm rather over watering at this point. Aerating and overseeding are great for a lawn but gosh it's a lot of watering. Though at least the grass is starting to sprout in some areas already, it's nice to the fruits after putting in the labor.

Well there is a lot still to do so that's about it for now.

United We Stand

2017-09-24T08:54:00.001-04:00

As I turn on the news to see grown men arguing about standing for the national anthem I simply shake my head at the absurdity of it all. When I hear about protests that turn violent I am not only disgusted but embarrassed for our country. Honestly the animals of this country act better than the humans. It's hard to believe humans resort to such childish, immature ways. Seriously have we become that uneducated and uncivilized?

What's even crazier is how the serious issues of this country get so overlooked and spiral more out of control. What happened to united we stand?

The United States faces daily violence occurring to many innocent people, is in middle of a major drug epidemic, has an overwhelming number of citizens who are homeless and living on streets, has people who cannot afford basic health insurance or proper medical care, has an education system that is falling behind other countries, is filled with corruption especially our political system, and well hopefully by now you get the gist of where I'm going with this.

Seriously our politicians and athletes are going to squabble over the national anthem instead of talking about and trying to solve the real serious issues of this country. They are going to boycott such events as going to the white house, instead of using it as an opportunity to sit down and discuss the real issues. What does avoiding and boycotting anything accomplish? And what does having spats back and forth on social media really accomplish either?

Lets take the flag for a moment the thirteen stripes represent the original thirteen colonies that declared independence from England; fifty stars symbolize the current 50 United States. White signifies purity and innocence, red signifies valor and bravery; and blue signifies vigilance, perseverance, and justice. It has become a powerful symbol of Americanism and represents the land of the free.

Yes the land of the free where supposedly we are free to protest whatever we want, say whatever we want and so on. But freedom comes with a price I suppose because ones freedom of expression can directly insult another's causing further divide. We don't all have to think the same or agree on everything but should be able to find a way to respect each other. Not sit on social media like these men are doing, and calling each other out like little boys. Two wrongs don't make a right. Come on sit down like real men, discuss the real issues and devise ways to solve them. Develop a plan of action that involves everyone.

Truth is the United States if like a house of sorts and the citizens of it are in many ways a family. Within that family is going to be huge amounts of dysfunction but that's what we all have to learn to work through together. Kind of like marriage right as for better or worse you stick by each other. You work your ass off to deal with and try to solve the issues that might develop. But you also find a way to show respect for each other and the differences that exist as well.

Problem is there is no respect. No one has respect for anything or anyone these days. And that needs to change. Our political parties are a complete and utter embarrassment, how can they not find a way to work together to help all the struggling american people? Better yet how can they live with themselves everyday knowing the corruption that exists and all the bs lies they spew? It's not just one parties, it both parties. Enough is enough, why are we electing these people who accomplish so little and are willing to sell out for money and big corporations? We need to call everyone, including all our politicians out when they don't do the right thing. Number one rule for all should be follow the law or there will be consequences. And same consequences for all no matter who you are.

And what about the NFL? We are a talking about a league that has been filled with controversial athletes over the years...domestic violence, violence in general, shootings, drug issues, dog fighting, rape, cheating, etc, issues the NFL refuses to truly take seriously. It's not just the NFL it's other sports as well. There are plenty of athletes who are not and will not ever be role models for ours kids but yet they are. It's time all of the sports world clean up their acts especially if they want to be true role models for our kids and advance their causes. Again show some respect for yourselves, for the people in your life and for the world around you. Be the change first!

Colin Kaeperink started kneeling during the anthem because in his words "I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color". Personally I think he could have choose a million other better ways to promote his cause than by disrespecting the national anthem which stands for the very freedoms our country stands on.

Our forefathers fought hard the freedoms we experience and often times take for granted today. And our military continue to fight for those kinds of freedoms all across the world. So is it really too much to ask that everyone show some respect for those freedoms and the very people who gave us those freedoms, by simply standing for the national anthem and having respect for our flag?

My father got drafted in the Vietnam War, my grandfather's and uncle both fought in various wars. Do you think they had a choice, no but they took it like men and stood up for this country even though they might not have even agreed at the time. So why can't our NFL players stand up like men on the field and fight their causes off field in intelligent ways that might actually accomplish real change other than dividing this country even further?

Think about it besides kneeling during the national anthem what has Kaepernick really done to solve this issues of racial inequality that he feels is a huge problem in this country? It's one thing to kneel but how about he actually take some real action to advance his cause, no? If you are going to cause such divide in this country by kneeling the for anthem, than start being a man and working to actually fix the problems you believe exist in this country.

It's like all these protesters who go out causing disruption and violence, what are they really achieving but more division and hate in this country? There are much better ways to try to achieve change than such barbaric tactics.. Seriously until everyone finds a way to grow up, work together and find a way to compromise nothing is ever going to change. This tit for tat stuff obviously isn't working.

Yes anyone can call out American for all it's problems but if they do, then actually do something about it. And maybe find a better way to express his outrage than by disrespecting the very thing that stands for freedom? Like I said earlier the United States is riddled with serious issues that are only growing worse by the day. Maybe these athletes could use their millions to put into advancing their causes and helping society rather just whining about what needs to change.

Love to see these same athletes and celebrities talk and do something about the daily violence that is occurring everyday, in every city and town across the country. Do they not care about all the innocent people, of all races losing their lives to senseless violence? There are gangs controlling many streets yet don't see any of our athletes having the balls to call them out? Or why not speak out against the rampant drug epidemic that is destroying this country? Or how about all the homeless who need help? What about all the kids born out of wedlock these days, who have no father figures in their lives? Or education that is failing our kids in many parts of the country, especially inner cities? There are so many issues that needs addressing, yet our athletes and so called celebrities are going to bitch about Trump? Come on everyone needs to get it together.

Our athletes and even celebrities get paid millions, yet they continually seem to always find a way to whine about something. Our military who put their lives on the line everyday get paid little and you rarely hear them whining. The very men and women who are fighting for our freedoms. It's crazy to think about. And exactly why I am disgusted that any player would choose to kneel during the national anthem.

Let's all start showing a little more respect for each other, starting being the change.

Oh, say can you see,
By the dawn's early light,
What so proudly we hailed,
At the twilight's last gleaming?
Whose broad stripes and bright stars,
Through the perilous fight,
O'er the ramparts we watched,
Were so gallantly streaming.
And the rocket's red glare,
The bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night,
That our flag was still there.
Oh say does that star spangled banner yet wave,
For the land of the free, and the home of the brave.

Monday Musings

2017-09-18T22:26:00.000-04:00

Weather has been warm which is nice for summer people like me. :)

The week was overall busy, between the nephew, Cooper and trying to still work on small things around the house it went fast. Just placed an order for shelving for our dining area, hoping it works out and looks like I envision. Our kitchen and living room are very open concept, though that seems to be the popular thing these days I find it harder to situate furniture and decorate such rooms. The man and I both prefer more defined rooms.

It's amazing all the little things we do during a day, often times I don't even take the time to write about all the things on my schedules or to do list or what I'm working on daily. Kinda of just give a general synopsis half the time. Funny how that works I will share some things but not others.

Today I'm feeling exhausted and sore. While Saturday started off good with a nice long walk with Cooper, followed by some grocery shopping and a nice cinnamon breakfast it quickly involved more work than I was desiring. Especially given I cleaned the entire house early evening Friday.

Since we are getting our lawn aerated it first had to be cut short and bagged. Well the man waited two weeks, instead of doing it in small increments like I suggested. (because if you don't have a degree in it the man for some reason doesn't listen to anyones advice) ha By waiting as he did bagging became a major chore, and there was so much grass the bag couldn't even handle it. Clumps of wet grass as he didn't even wait until it was dry to cut. Which required me to help rake as the man was in over his head.

Since the weather was so hot and humid it made the task seem even harder. And what a mess it left the lawn and mower, the man has no clue that the mower has to be cleaned when clumps of grass are stuck to it like that...he just puts in back in shed. He may have a MBA but kind of needs a degree in common sense at times

By Saturday afternoon we were both wiped and could barely move. Needless to say there were naps and we pretty much didn't leave the sofa the rest of the day. Not sure if the man even realized how much work he made for him and I by prolonging cutting like he did. Anyway....

Sunday was all about some laundry, followed by a day of relaxing while watching football. Got my super soft blanket out, reclined the sofa and snuggled into it. Watched some Eagles, took a power nap, made some mac and cheese with a new chicken dish and tried not to do too much physical stuff.

Monday was all about the nephew. And after he left it was all about the lawn again, had to touch up spots the man had left chunky. Oh and weed whack with scissors as the man could not get the weed whacker to start, my dad stopped by as well and he gave it a try but nothing either. So had to resort to using some big scissors. Weed whackers always seem to come with issues, someone needs to a design a hassle free one. Needless to say now I'm really feel wiped, even making dinner felt tedious tonight. Doing nothing sounds good about now but probably not going to happen.

American Ninja Warrior finals are tonight, though only one woman made it. Which is kind of disappointing because as a woman I like to see other woman succeed in such physical challenges, even have my favorites who compete on the show. The obstacles seem to keep getting harder which sometimes isn't good as you want to see people finish the courses too. It's a show worth checking out though, find watching it just makes you want to get in shape and try it. Though given most who compete seem to be in major shape, with some major muscle it would take a little bit of work!

Trying to find some new shows to watch this season as so many of the ones I've watched have seemed to retire. Always looking for suggestions for good shows, please share if you know of any. :)

Soul Sunday

2017-09-17T20:49:00.005-04:00

A desire is anything but frivolous. It is the interface between you and that

which is greater than you. No desire is meaningless or inconsequential.

If it pulls you, even a little bit, it will take everyone higher. Desire is where

the Divine lives, inside the inspiration of your desire. Every desire is

of profound importance with huge consequences, and deserves your

attention.

Sometimes desire can feel like a wave overwhelming the soul,

other times like a wave for the soul to ride.

As is your desire, so is your will.

As is your will, so is your deed.

As is your deed,

so is your destiny.

Woof Wednesday

2017-09-13T10:21:00.003-04:00

Welcome to Woof Wednesday. Please meet some great dogs from CA, NY, PA and TX all in need of good, loving homes!

Tabitha is a Dachshund/Chihuahua mix who is around 9 years old. This sweet girl deserves a soft bed and family who will care for her. Please lets find her a loving home!

Tabitha - Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles County Animal Control - Carson

216 West Victoria Street

Gardena, CA 90248

(310) 523-9566

animalinfo@animalcare.lacounty.gov

http://animalcare.lacounty.gov

__________________________________________________________

Bowtruckle is a Hound mix who is 2 years old. He loves getting kisses from all the misses. Contrary to his magnificently large ears, this 2 year old boy is deaf; but nothing can stop this magical mutt. Bowie is currently mastering his sign language commands while working on his city manners. The lowrider pup is always goofing off with his foster siblings, is super sweet with humans, and loves to kiss all up on everyone. Please lets find him a great home!

Bowtruckle - Brooklyn, NY

Badass Animal Rescue

Brooklyn, NY 11249

adopt@badassbk.com

http://www.badassbrooklynanimalrescue.com

_________________________________________________________

Stroganoff is a Terrier mix who is around 6-9 years old and only 7lbs. He's really tiny and has a big personality. It looks to us like he would really like to be the king in his castle, and everyone will work for him. That being said, he could live with teenaged, dog familiar kids. He hasn't mentioned any feeling about cats yet. He's a very chatty little man and is a little reactive to other dogs. Please lets find him a good home!

Stroganoff - Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society

100 N. 2nd Street

Philadelphia, PA 19106

(215) 238-9901

adoptions@phillypaws.org

http://www.phillypaws.org

______________________________________________________

Buster Brown is a Dachshund. Buster was rescued from a small town shelter after he was dumped by his family. He was a little on the chubby side but otherwise happy and glad to be sprung. He is house trained, good with dogs and kids. He was in serious need of a dental and the cost was over the top - he had a lot of extractions. But the good news is he has a healthy mouth and won't be needing a lot of vetting in the future. Buster is an easy going and loving man that wants nothing but to please his humans. Give this guy a chance he won't disappoint you. Please lets find him a loving home!

Buster Brown - Pearland, TX

All Texas Dachshund Rescue

P.O. Box 841336

Pearland, TX 77584

info@atdr.org

http://www.atdr.org

No paw left behind our mission!

If you want to be a part of Woof Wednesdays email Ann Michele, Lauren or leave a comment. Or simply start posting about dogs in need of a home on your blog or facebook page

Monday Musings

2017-09-11T23:31:00.004-04:00

Ah it seems the Fall weather is upon us, overall the temperatures have been cooler and even noticed some trees starting to change color. Summer needs to be longer!

So I'm sitting in the guest bedroom, which has no tv I might add, writing this and it feels way past when I'm normally dozing. ha Why you might ask because the man's football team is playing and game started at 1030pm. Seriously why does the NFL and even NCAA Football have to start games so dang late? Do they realize it interferes with sleep for many?

The conundrum is if I stay up and watch game I will be tired. Yet the man staying up to watch the game may interfere with my sleep anyway. When he watches a game it's like being live at the stadium...he yells at tv, claps ridiculously loud and makes it impossible to watch anything else. So either way I feel like my sleep will be messed up, hence why I despise late games! haha And the man is notorious for staying up late to watch games that don't even involve his team, those are the ones that drive me most nuts. But that's what happens when you live with a over the top obsessed sports fan. And by the way obsessed is putting it lightly.

The nephew has been keeping me real busy, but a good fun busy. As I've said before he sure enlightens my world, our world in ways we never knew possible. He brings this happy little energy which just brightens up the world.

Saturday we went to a local Polish festival with my sister and her family. It was a carnival of sorts with games, rides, crafts and even dancing. It was a beautiful Fall day which made it perfect for such an event. The rides were a tad disappointing compared to other carnivals we have been to as they didn't have a lot of adult rides or variety. Afterwards the man and I watched some football. And I made this scrumptious homemade pancake dinner complete with home fries and all vegan bacon. Though we both fell asleep rather early.

Sunday I did more outdoor work, trying to prepare the lawn for aeration. Something I don't think any of the former owners even did. We have a lawn that is going to take a little bit of work to get in shape. Aerating and over seeding seem like a good place to start.

We keep saying we are going to have family and friends over for a bbq or party but some new house project always seems to pop up that we want to tackle before unveiling the house to everyone. The man needs a little push when it comes to such things as his procrastinating ways can really impede progress. We painted his office a few months ago and he still has yet to furnish or set it up. I'm telling you one big shot of testosterone a week might help give him the boost he needs.

Been watching all this hurricane coverage and just wondering why do they issue evacuations only to let reporters and media come into town and cover it live? And what kind of human being loots places during such times? (oh wait they shouldn't be considered human beings if they do that right) What is wrong with our society? Media and thugs have one thing in common they are always looking to exploit situations.

As I listen to the crickets chirp tonight keep wondering will the world ever clean itself up? As it just seems like things keep spiraling downward. Our politicians are a joke, honestly they do nothing to actually help the average american. They would rather focus on helping illegal immigrants then their own homeless citizens. Crimes and drugs seems so rampant that not sure how they will ever fix those issues. And morals and virtues are things that have all but disappeared in our society.

Ugh why am I even going there. The more I think about such stuff the more it really bothers me. Yet it's hard not to think about such stuff as the minute you sign online, turn on the tv or even radio one is bombarded by the reality of it all.

On that note before I go off on a much bigger tangent think I'll simply call it a night.

And yes for the American Ninja Warrior fans out there, I'm so disappointed that Jesse Graf didn't make it to the second part of finals. She is my favorite chick on that show!

Photos will have to wait.

Soul Sunday

2017-09-10T20:13:00.002-04:00

Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass,

It's about learning to dance in the rain.

Woof Wednesday

2017-09-06T20:34:00.001-04:00

Welcome to Woof Wednesday. Please meet some great dogs from CA, NY, PA and TX all in need of good, loving homes!

Dora and Mimi are Chihuahua mixes. Dora is 2 yrs old and 9 lbs Mimi is 7 yrs old and 8 1/2 lbs. Dora is a high energy level and housetrained dog. She likes to play with toys and chew them. She likes kids and adults; she just wants to be with you no matter your age or size. She´s a very social girl, so she gets along well with all sizes dogs. Dora would love to sleep with her owner just besides them, under her blankets. She would be willing to get a lot of kisses and go to walks with you every day, that´s why she behaves very well using a leash. She´s not a barker, she only barks when she hears another dog. She doesnt dig anything. She can be a great companion on your all day activities out of home because she likes car rides and is a smart and obedient dog, like a high energy dog she enjoys a lot to exercise and playing all day with you and with her toys. Mimi is a medium energy level dog. She is a house trained and a perfect companion for everybody. She loves to sleep with her owners just besides them, under her blankets. She would be willing to get a lot of kisses and go to walks with her owner every day, that´s why she behaves very well using a leash. She likes kids and adults; she just wants to be with you no matter your age or size. She´s a very social girl, so she gets along well with all sizes dogs. She uses to bark only when someone approximates to her house like a way to warn her family that visits are coming. She doesn't like to dig or chew anything. She can be a great companion for all day activities out of home because she likes car rides and is a smart and obedient dog. Mimi is the sweetest girl to love and cuddle all day long, a forever friend that can live up to 17 years old. She´s a social, adaptable and a loving dog to be with. Mimi would love to get adopted with her daughter Dora, they are inseparable. These girls are the perfect pair that any family would love to have. Please lets find them a loving home!

Dora and Mimi - Bells Garden, CA

Miracle Dog Rescue

Bell Gardens, CA 90201

(323) 383-8883

miracledogrescue@gmail.com

www.miracledogrescue.org

__________________________________________________________

Sam is a Collie mix who is around 2 years old. Donning a fantastic ebony coat, and fluffy ears, it goes without say that he is a stunningly handsome pooch. Very much a spirited joker, Sam has a good sense of humor about him. Always up for a game or a prank, it’s hard not to laugh and be amused when spending time with him. Silliness aside, Sam has a heart of gold underneath, and cannot wait to share his love with his friends. He’s equal parts fun and affection. Although it never gets him down, Sam is currently under treatment for heartworm here, and is looking for a family that will upkeep with his care in the adoptive home. Bideawee will cover the cost, as long as it’s done at our Animal Hospital, as long as his adopter can give him the love and TLC he so deserves in the meantime. Please lets find him a great home!

Sam - Westhampton, NY

Bideawee Inc. Manhattan

410 E. 38th St. between 1st Ave. & FDR Dr.

New York, NY 10016

(866) 262-8133

ManhattanAdoptions@bideawee.org

http://www.bideawee.org

_________________________________________________________

Sue is a Jack Russell Terrier mix she is around 2 - 3 yrs old and 9 lbs. Shewas turned in to a SC shelter by her owner who only said she had her a long time when asked why she was surrendering Sue. Sue is very sweet and loves to sit in your lap. Please lets find her a good home!

Sue - Doylestown, PA

Almost Home Dog Rescue

PO Box 132

Doylestown, pa 18901

AlmostHome4Dogs@yahoo.com

http://almosthomedogrescue.rescuegroups.org

_____________________________________________________________

Wallaby is a Dachshund mix who is 2 yrs old. She would make the best of friend. She is even great in her crate at night, not even a peep. She doesn't have any accidents at night as long as you let her out as soon as you get up! She is still learning during the day but if her belly band is on she knows to try and hold it. She is learning no, but seem to understand a stern hey a little better. She gets along well with her two foster sibs, which is a pretty big deal because they're a tough crowd. She is not high maintenance at all. She loves to just be with people. She is shy at first so it may take me a few days to show you her true spirit. Which is fun, gently playful, soft hearted, and eager to befriend. She loves laying in bed or laps. Please lets find her loving home!

Wallaby - Houston, TX

K-9 Angels Rescue, Inc.

9415 Winsome Ln

Houston, TX 77063

http://www.k-9angelsrescue.org

No paw left behind our mission!

If you want to be a part of Woof Wednesdays email Ann Michele, Lauren or leave a comment. Or simply start posting about dogs in need of a home on your blog or facebook page

Monday Musings

2017-09-05T17:45:00.003-04:00

Weather has heated up again enjoying this heat and humidity but unfortunately Fall is right around corner and temperatures will be falling again tomorrow, not to mention rain is in forecast as well.

Holiday weekends mess with the whole week so today feels like Monday. :)

So hard to believe summer is coming to a close, how is that possible? Are schools really back in session? Why does it seem like of all the seasons summer always seems to go way too fast?

Last week I watched the nephew and niece for a few days, when I have them both it turns into a somewhat crazy day as the little guy doesn't like to nap when sister is with him. And sister likes to keep busy so it's hard to come up with things to keep her busy. But we managed to have fun for everyone.

Spent much of the weekend trying to clean things up and organize the house. Sometimes I just reach a point where I need to know everything is sparkling clean, especially the floor as it drives me crazy to walk on crumbs and sticky stuff. :)

The man woke up very congested on Saturday morning and just didn't feel all that great all weekend. Wish he would take the vitamins I bought him. He thinks nothing of taking aleve, tylenol, over the counter cold stuff yet vitamins would do him even better. Shutter to think that colds are already circulating. Then again went to a doctors appointment last week that seemed to be filled with stuffed up, coughing people. Hello that's panic city for a germ phob like me!

The man and I visited friends on Sunday they bought a new house months ago and we were excited to see it. Monday we tried to search for some bargains and even art for our house but the stores were more crowded than we anticipated. The long lines were a turn off so we didn't buy anything.

The nephew is back for the school year. Time to not only play but help him learn a bunch of things too! It's so cute to watch him interact with Cooper, they love to just follow each other around. Cooper especially loves when Dylan drops him treats.

Meanwhile praying that Houston gets the help it needs, think that every millionaire celebrity, athlete, politician, etc.,should simply pick a few families and help them build new homes. That way the money goes directly to the individuals that need it and doesn't have to go through all the red tape of organizations. Many people from the Sandy hurricane in New Jersey still haven't gotten reimbursed or even have their places of residences back up yet. It shouldn't have to take that long but yet it always does. We need our government and charities to find more efficient ways to run things.

Oh and wanted to talk about Big Brother the show the man loves and I watch because it makes him happy has gone off the deep end this season but I'll wait to talk about that in another post.

For now I'm tired, got laundry to do and just want to relax with Cooper!

Soul Sunday

2017-09-03T19:58:00.000-04:00

If you have men who will exclude any of God's creatures from the shelter of compassion and pity, you will have men who will deal likewise with their fellow men.

We know we cannot be kind to animals until we stop exploiting them -- exploiting animals in the name of science, exploiting animals in the name of sport, exploiting animals in the name of fashion, and yes, exploiting animals in the name of food.

The assumption that animals are without rights and the illusion that our treatment of them has no moral significance is a positively outrageous example of Western crudity and barbarity. Universal compassion is the only guarantee of morality.

We must open our souls to the reality of what is happening around the world to helpless animals, we must seek justice, and fight to help and protect the innocent animals of the world.

Monday Musings

2017-08-29T09:17:00.000-04:00

Is it still summer as you would never know here. Fall like temperatures have descended upon the area leaving the air feeling rather chilly.

Things have been rather busy around here. There have been a few days spent watching my nephew. The man and I spent last weekend looking for a new car as his 14 year old bmw reached the point of not being worth what it would cost to fix. Trust me it needs some serious work....two new catalytic converters, four new tires, leaking sun roof needs fixing and radio won't shut off. The list of things just continued growing leaving him with no choice but to look for a new car.

The man loves his bmw but a luxury car just doesn't seem to fit right now, so he tried to find a car he liked that was a little more affordable and made in America. Not exactly an easy task these days. He came up with the dodge charger. In fact we spent all last Saturday trying to negotiate a deal. Not feeling completely sure we walked away but he began more negotiations on phone eventually getting car to price point he needed. We decided a lease would be a better option to make sure he likes the car. So Wednesday he went to pick it up in New Jersey.

Thursday and Friday the man had off again, all these days off I wish we could have used to visit the beach. Thursday we did some outdoor work, and things around here. Friday the nephew spent the day with us, so there was a lot of playing! Friday night the parents came over to join us for dinner. My sister and brother in law took my niece on a little mini vacation to the water park at camelback.

Saturday was our anniversary. The man did good. He gave me a beautiful card, some very thoughtful gifts and we spent the day window shopping in New Hope. Followed I might add by a romantic dinner, the restaurant even put rose petals on the table and took a complimentary photo of us. Overall could not have asked for a better anniversary, it truly was a great day.

Sunday we pretty much just chilled out, I took a bike ride, did some stuff around the house and made sure Cooper got some good play.

Monday had a doctors appointment where I waited 45 mins, which is what seems the norm these days. Followed by some grocery shopping, bike ride and eventually gave in to sorting through all the paper work that seems to always pile up. Weren't computers suppose to reduce paper waste?

Honestly not feeling like talking about my world though as there's just so much more I want to write about what's going on in the world but think I'll keep that for another day. Really beginning to wonder if the world has gone mad though. In some many ways just wonder what has happened to humanity. Think on that note I'll just let the writing go for today.

Soul Sunday

2017-08-27T14:54:00.002-04:00

Anniversaries

2017-08-26T21:48:00.003-04:00

It's funny how things change as years ago anniversaries meant little to me. Now I realize the significance of them, and wonder why I didn't understand sooner. Certain anniversaries have now come to hold such a special and unique place in my heart.

Even when it came to wedding anniversaries never gave them much thought, though probably not many unmarried people do. Yet in a society where our divorce rate is over 50% the importance of celebrating and honoring them makes sense now. Every year that a couple stays together in this day and age seems almost like a miracle of sorts.

The man isn't always one for holidays, or making a big deal of them. But he seemed to take our anniversary seriously. The thought he put into it really made the day even more special. Honestly was happily surprised as he created such a perfect day.

He bought me the most meaningful gifts, followed by a nice day walking around in quaint New Hope, followed by a romantic dinner in a very nice restaurant. (where I might add we got a quiet table on the balcony with rose petals on the table and because it was a special occasion the place even took a complimentary photo) Never imagined him planning such an anniversary, yet he did and that speaks volumes.

Actions really do speak louder than words. Though in this case the words of his card were just as beautiful.

Though it's our first married anniversary we have been together awhile, maybe even longer than many married couples. And here's my thoughts....

After over a decade together, despite being almost complete opposites, some very tough challenges along the way and a rather road less traveled life..here we are. Love some how finds a way.....