I have a gift

so it's Thursday...I'm stoked about another long weekend, dang two in a row, this just doesn't happen. Yes, I'm taking tomorrow off for a day of luxury - my first ever spa day and I'm excited, as if you can't tell. One of the things I'm doing is a hot stone massage...I've been told it's heaven, I'm hoping the stones aren't too hot:)

Updates and such:
I took/dropped off the kit-cat I had rescued at Jessica's on Monday, and although I miss the little booger, she and her family are in love. Her son (allergic to all dogs, long-haired cats)...hasn't had a reaction yet, so hopefully we're in the clear and he can stay. Apparently this weekend he's getting a cat tower and walking vest, yes he's going to be a walking cat, which is all the rage. I myself have seen a few people of late walking their cats in my neighborhood. I'm all for it, it's a great way to let your cat be outside and safe at the same time. They've (Jessica and Family) named him Grady, sound's like he's a keeper.

*story time*
On my way home from dropping Grady off at Jessica's, I had a missed call and upon checking my voicemail there was a message from a lady stating that she was the owner of the cat and is desperate to get her back. I'm all 'wait her back, so obviously not her cat, since I just de-manned the one I found'.
I called her back though, mentioning that I found a boy kit-cat - sorry - she said she moved up here from Georgia about a month ago, and today (monday) she's moving from Sugar Run into her home, she told her son (about 10yrs) to go check the mailbox area to see if there was a found cat sign, and he saw Grady's picture and thought it was their missing kitty. Her name's Josi (yes, that's my babygirl's name) and she's got the biggest doe eye's you'll ever see. Nope, sorry I found a baby boy, sorry.
Our (the fur-kids) day was a little off, and around 9:30pm we went out for our nighttime potty, yet they hadn't pooped this afternoon, so instead of just a quick pee by my jeep we crossed the parking lot to go to their poop island, and lo and behold, who's sitting about 10 feet away from us - a cat is all I can tell; hey it's dark out...but I know, ok feel that I know it's the lady's missing cat. I took the furkids and threw them inside, rushing back out and the cat bolted when it saw me approaching...I called out it's name "here Josi" hoping that it was her...and she stopped running away from me and then ran towards me. I sat down on the ground and the little girl, with the biggest dang eyes I've ever seen, curled up on my lap, and I knew it was her then, I mean seriously those eyes. I called her Mama, and she was there within 10 min to pick her up, her kids piling out of the car, everyone so excited to be reunited:) She had turned her keys in about 3 hours before...I mean the chances of this happening are too slim, that clearly this was God's work unfolding before us.
So I found one little guy a loving forever home and reunited a little girl with her's all in one day...apparently I have a gift with cats:)

Tuesday, I got my hair did after work...which takes awhile so I was home after 9 and then Wednesday after work we (Deezel,Josi and I) took a nap - too hot to walk - took a quick/short walk when it kinda cooled down a little, then I made dinner and got stuck watching the RNC - I tuned in during Rudy's speech and stayed for Palin's - then it was definitely bedtime.

I'm feeling very thankful of late for all of life's blessings

This and That

so time flies by so quickly...

Emily and Jack and I and Deezel and Josi like to take walks, I like to coo at Jack's little feet

he has the cutest little sweaty:) feet

Recently Emily, Greg and Jack were road-trippin it to Wooster for the weekend and I tagged along for the ride to and fro...carsickness and back ways do not mix well.

I stayed at Clete and Chris's with my nephews for the weekend - I know I've said this before but dangit they grow up fast. I had some pictures, but alas I accidently deleted them:(

The car ride both ways, was an event all to itself...consisting of delaying parades, trying to keep the little man from crying, and "don't try this at home" attempts to stop the crying:)

Overall I'm glad at any chance I get for spending time with family and friends.

Here are some pictures of the sandwich I was raving about - Sourdough bread, pesto (North Market), tom, mozz and spinach...and yes I made them two nights in a row, in case any smartypants out there notices the plating differences

and I rescued/found a kit-cat about a week and a half ago...I have put up found signs in the area, but nothin...more than likely his family packed up and left and gave him the boot, sad I know and tragically this happens alot. Fortunately for him he ended up on my porch, and has been staying at chez Carmi for the time being. I took him to the vet to get neutered (he has forgiven me, I think...) and to get vaccinated, dewormed, his ears cleaned and nails trimmed. The works, I guess you could say...I had already put some flea/tick med on him on Day 1 of his stay. Given that he ran up to my dogs and has since established himself in charge, I think that wherever he lived before, he lived with dogs...maybe. The point is on Monday (sept 1st) he's going to Jessica's ( a friend from work) to live, yea! saving one lost soul at a time:)

the vet put him at about 7-8 months, isn't he a cutie-pie? I'm going to miss him but I'm already at full capacity...I do have to admit that I had no idea that cat-nip would drive the little guy so crazy, who knew?

This past weekend, my Dad came down and spent the night, Friday into Saturday, the 22nd-23rd. I filled up his time with dog based events, and he was happy to spoil his granpuppies, and daughter...Friday we went to the Dog Days Festival in Westerville, Deezel and Josi being the mini-celebrities that they are prevents me from getting to to many booths to score some goodies, so Thanks Michele for stocking up Josi's backpack and my bag too, or else I probably would've left empty-handed...except for the bag of dogfood that my Dad got at DJ's Feed Store, to say that Deezel and Josi love this stuff is an understatment, I usually put it as a garnishment on their boring regular food and they go to town with tails wagging, I like it because it's good for them. It's probably like when your kids (real ones) say no to cookies, they'd rather have the carrots, or something...the point is I like it because it's healthy they like it just because.

On Saturday, my Dad, Josi and I headed downtown for the 5K Dog Jog and man was that fun. She and I made it through the race, running yes, although we did stop to walk, once or twice...Josi needed to (wink, wink) and I felt I should oblige her. It was a fun and relaxing time to spend with canine like minded people. Next year, if we train harder, we can be contenders:)

Sunday, I slept alot and had lunch at Easy Street Cafe on Thurman St. I like it, there are lotsa greek based dishes...yum.

This week has consisted of work, and dividing my time between walks/cuddles with the furkids, and giving kit-cat some attention too. I did manage to get over to Kathryn's for dinner on Wednesday, and discovered another wine to crave. I like Yellow Tail in general, normally going for the Shiraz, we'll she had the cab-merlot blend and it was delish. My favorite though is still Layer Cake Shiraz, but it's real difficult to find locally...however they do have it at Mohawk a restaurant in German Village.

Allright, I'm done typing for now...ready to embrace the long weekend with open arms!

what I've been up to

so, last friday - Emily and I had a girls night. She made White Pizza with lotsa cheese; it was delish and appeared to be simple to make. The jist of it is pizza crust, olive oil, shredded cheese (whatever you like, she used an italian blend) and plenty of herbs, I'm sure you could play around and add / subtract what ever you would prefer...I liked it just the way it was.
After taking a walk with Jack(Emily's baby boy) and Link and Bailey (Emily's yorkie furkids) we settled down to watch P.S. I love you. Going back to walking; I couldn't get over how fast their (Link/Bailey) little legs were moving; I'm used to dogs with legs as long as mine, it was like they were sprinting - cute.
Back to the movie, it tugs at your heart - be sure to have some kleenex at the ready - there is humor too though, and eye candy:)

I went to my first ever Spin class on Sat. morn with Kara - a friend of mine from the Bucket (a restaurant), I liked it - the seat was the most uncomfortable thing about the class, it's not like I need an XL bike seat, but dang it, it blows.
I did sweat buckets though, and Kara and I decided to do the extended spin on Sunday - if we were too sore then plan B was to lift instead.

After spin class and lunch, I took a Saturday nap - I love naps, doesn't everyone?
I went down to German Village and ate at the Mohawk Cafe - a favorite spot for dinner. Usually I go with the hummus gryo and a glass of the Layer Cake Shiraz - yummy
Upon arriving home, I tuned into the Olympics and got Michael Phelps winning his first Gold, yea!

Sunday I woke up not feeling too sore, so we did the extended spin class - did I mention the seat is killing me...and whew that class was tough, tough, tough. I got home and did some pushups and abwork, stretched real good and took the furkids to sit outside in the grass for awhile. They love to sit outside and chill - occasionally barking at passing dogs, because you know they have to defend their yard:)
I went to Katzinger's deli for lunch and fell in love with my sandwich. Thick,crusty,Sourdough bread, mozzarella, pesto, olive oil, and tomatoes all grilled to perfection, I'm going to attempt to replicate it at home - given that I do have the best pesto ever (from the NorthMarket) all I need is bread/tomatoes and mozz cheese, and I thought that I would add fresh spinach - here's to hoping:) otherwise I'll have to eat there again soon, yes it was that good.
I took a lovely evening walk with Deezel/Josi; the weather was beautiful this past weekend. Then I settled down to watch an hour or so of the Olympics and got sucked in to the point of no return - and holey moley I'm glad I stayed up till midnight because the men's 4x100 relay was unbelievable - I mean I was cheering and clapping. The way Lezak crawled through the frenchie at the end didn't seem possible. Very glad to catch it, not very glad in the morning when the alarm went off - ughh Monday morn - back to work.

Work was uneventful - my Mom stopped by though bringing a Roebeck's smoothie for me which I stuck in the freezer for after my run/walk workout with Josi. We headed to Swickard Woods, to do some trail run/walking - mainly to get out of the sun and into the shade. Monday's workout was walk 1 mile, run 3min / walk 2min (repeat 10x) then walk cooldown mile. My legs are sore today, especially after the weekend of spinning. We made it through and upon returning home, I think we were both glad for air-conditioning. I sucked down my smoothie while stretching, very important, well just because and also because my right knee is very sensitive, and if I don't stretch real, real good then it quickly becomes quite painful.
I told myself that I would only watch the Olympics for about 1/2 hour and go to bed early for goodness sake, yeah, like that happened - swimming and diving are my favorites, so after this week I should be making it to bed much earlier, hopefully. It was great to see the US winning so many medals last night:)

Random Friday this and that

so here's a bit of this and that for a lovely Friday afternoon rambling session:

-I've been extra sleepy this week at work due to the new getting up early schedule. I suspect it has to do with still going to bed late...as I'm sure we can all agree there it just not enough time in a day. Still I find myself really wanting to take a nap when I get home and really it's too dang hot outside for the furkids that I probably could, and I really love naps, but instead I take about 1/2 an hour to get them ready to go and embrace the heat.

First the socks and booties, then Josi gets her backpack on, buckled and loaded with water bottles, poop bags and such, then Deezel gets his swamp cooler on (a vest that you get wet, then as the vest dries and the water evaporates it helps him keep cool) so he can hang with the girls. Then collars and leashes, and we're ready. We did all this yesterday only to have it ran about 10 min. into the walk, bummer, so we high-tailed it back home. They both love playing in water (creeks, especially muddy ones, lakes...) but neither of them have a fondness for rain. But I do , I love running in the rain, warm summer rain, not cold winter rain there is a difference.

-Things I like to do-

Going to get groceries, I just like to look and compare everything, I always spend too much though.

Loading the dishwasher, making everything fit just so...don't ask me to empty it though.

Washing clothes, sorting and making piles...I seem to forget about them after they go in the dryer though.

Listening to the O.A.R. cd - Any Time Now; yes I'm late jumping on the bandwagon...but I can't get enough of them. I always knew about the 'that was a crazy game of poker' song, but recently I took a trip and borrowed my brother's ipod, which had the 'Hey Girl' song on it, and now I'm in love, that song just grabbed me, so I downloaded the whole CD and it's been on play for two weeks now, I think I need help...

I went over to Emily's last night, she and Greg had a music meeting, so I watched Jack for a minute or two. We took a walk, but I stayed close to the house because the sky looked like this

I was pretty sure it was going to open up on us, but it didn't and it seems as though the fresh storm air did Jack good, since he slept all the night through last night. Emily has taken to calling me the baby whisperer:)

Yea! the Olympics are here, swimming/diving and gymnastics are my favorites - how about yours?

Early bird me and humidity

so, since my brother's hours changed from 7-3:30 to 9-5:30, I've decided to change mine too. Now I'm the early bird, yea...not really, this getting up early idea is no fun so far, I guess it will take a little time to adjust, I hope, and with my dear friend Mr. Tim Hortons I should be just fine. And thankfully (fingers crossed) Deezel/Josi have pooped for me at the ungodly hour I let them out, so all Caleb has to do is a quick pee break before he leaves, because let's face it; we all know how your whole day starts off bad if your dog doesn't poop in the morning, right?

Last night, Josi and I did our training run and let me tell you, it was way too humid to do so. We, alright I (but if she could sweat, I'm sure she would have been drenched too) was a big sweat, no scratch that, a big glistening ball and Josi took panting to another level. Even with her swamp cooler on (a vest to keep dogs cool) and frequent water breaks, I thought she was going to pass out on me. Then after about an hour of laying in front of the fan, she was back to being her rotten self, just ask the cat.

so much to say

so, last Monday after Miss Josephine and I did our running workout with Deezel joining us for an extended cool-down, I went over to Kathryn's. After girl-talk and a large piece of vanilla with a cheescake center cake we watched 'Must Love Dogs'. Very good I must say, but then how could you not like John Cusak, I've been a fan of his, well, since forever. I loved Mother Teresa, I think she stole the show, that and the fairy-tale ending...

then on Tuesday, I worked a shorter day than usual, due to Caleb being out of town for the week. He went up to Wooster for the week to work with my Dad and Cy(brother), and for some friend time before starting his new job, today actually. Back to the point though, he's my help when it comes to working and having dogs, meaning he lets them out to potty so I don't have to come home for lunch. So, with him gone, I got home a little early and chilled w/ a good book, waiting for it to cool down, and for Emily and Jack to come over for an evening stroll/walk. I really like Emily, she's awesome, and Jack is too adorable. We had a nice chat, turns out she went to college in my hometown, yea! , she comes from a big family too, and loves sunsets. And she gave me the coolest tins with loose tea, since I love tea...and Tim Horton's coffee, but I drink tea more; black,green, red, white I drink it all.

Wednesday was a blah day for me, My Mom came to the rescue and let the furkids out for a potty break, yet when I got home from work, I felt a little, okay a lot drained. The furkids and I stayed in for the evening...they snoozed and chewed on some bones while I read and did some yoga, I even took a bath. Felt guilty though like always when I don't get them out for their nightly walk-abouts...but not guilty enough to go on one. You need a night off every now and then. Besides I got up early Thursday and went for a short 2mile walk before work, guilt it's a horrible thing, but then again it's horrible not walking your loved ones too.

and Then Pedicure Thursday arrived.

which became Ped/Mani Thursday

I've had acrylic nails before, but this was a first for me with the Ped/Mani, and I loved it. I've held off on getting a Pedicure because I always thought, 'who would want to touch my feet' but overcoming that notion, letting go and allowing myself to be pampered was a little easier than I thought, maybe a little to easy, as I can hardly wait till the next time. And the Manicure, although I threw that in, I don't really have nails (I do tend to bite them), I thought why not, maybe I'll stop biting them and actually grow them If they look to PRETTY to mess with. So far, it's working... and thanks to Susay for again letting the grandfurkids out, saving me gas and time.

Friday, I was up early to get Deezel/Josi out for a walk, knowing that they wouldn't be getting an evening walk. I had plans to hang with Jack, while Emily and Greg went to Dinner/Movie. I got home on the earlier side and relaxed for a minute, making treats to put in the freezer, where my Mom will pull them out of later (yes, she's letting them out while I'm baby-sitting the little tyke) and take all the credit, no wonder my furkids love her...

I got to Emily's and met, Link and Bailey

now, talk about cuteness, Bailey is up front, while Link is chilling on top of the cushion, Kind of hard to see, I know...sorry, I'm sure I'll be posting additional Link/Bailey photos.

Jack and I had a great time, he was very chill and fun to watch. He ate a little bit, took about 1/2 hour nap, ate a little bit more, played peek-a-boo

and accompanied me around the yard while I was kicking the ball for Bailey, which Bailey loves, and I do mean Loves. Then Jack ate a little more,

yes, he's a good little eater, then we took an evening stroll before bedtime, and before I knew it, he was changed/burbed and asleep. I flipped through the 'Real Simple' catalog (which I highly recommend, or you can go to www.realsimple.com too) and then Emily and Greg were home. They had a great time and really liked the Batman movie and I was really glad that they had a nice evening.
There was alot of heat lightning on my way home, I like it, that and storms, especially when they wake you up in the middle of the night. I know some people are scared of storms but I find them relaxing in a way, I know, I know, but then I also like pb and dill pickle sandwiches, eating dinner/lunch food for breakfast, think that spaghetti is better as a leftover, capers on my cheese pizza, salsa on my eggs, and dipping my fries in frosties...who knew?

Saturday was a complete recovery day, lounging arond till noon, going for a short walk with the rottens (too HoT), going tanning (yes, it's bad, but I need some color, yes I do), gave myself a facial, took a bath, started and finished a book, did some yoga, blah, blah, blah...

On Sunday, I took a long walk in the AM before it got too hot with the furkids, did some more yoga, and threw in lunges, push-ups and abs. Then went to lunch at the Easy Street Cafe with Mike, it was really good:) and yummy. I had a Greek Burger with Curly Fries, I am a sucker for seasoned curly fries w/ mustard, no ketchup, only if it's the only thing available.
Caleb got home, yea!
I took a nap on Sunday after lunch and then another long walk with the furkids, of course. I had an english muffin w/ pb (as soon as the muffin is toasted you have to put the pb (Jiff) on so that it can melt) with a huge glass of oj for dinner. Then watered the plants, spent some cuddle time with Deezel/Josi, showered and went to bed...dreading the early morning wake-up alarm.

5K's, nephews, and excitement

so, I've started a 6 weeks to a 5K running program...with 5 weeks before the race. I know, I started it a week late, but at least I started it. I'm now into week 2 and it is going well, and I have a great running, actually the best running partner

yes, none other than my spunky girly girl, and since she's going to be running in the actual race w/me, I see no reason why she should get to skip out on the training. After all I'm doing this for her, and to fit into my jeans again, and for her...

What about Deezel, you say? Trust me running in a 5K is definitely not up his alley, he would much rather go to the event and make it his personal goal that everyone, and I mean everyone stops and pets him. Or he would be just as content snoozing on his couch, happy to have it all to himself, not having to share it with a certain someone that doesn't respect his space...

and tend's to wegde herself in, no matter what. And that green shirt on Deezel, that's so he'd stop licking a spot on his front leg, ahhh...the things I put him through.

Hmmm...let's see, this past week or two has just flown by.

Clete and Chris, my brother and sister-in-law, came down not to long ago with my nephews for an impromptu lunch at my Mom's. We grilled out, brats (ewww) and italian sausage, with saurkraut and peppers, baked beans, fresh fruit, potato salad... typical but good cookout food.

I love my nephews, Noah and Ben...they are growing up too fast.

Noah is 3

and Benjamin is 1

they don't live too far away, but far enough that I only see them every few months.

This past weekend, I was down in Kentucky for an overnight...attending my Mom's Family Reunion. Lot's of fun, yet we couldn't stay for the main event on Saturday because of a prior obligation back here in Columbus, but Friday evening story time was a good time. I get car-sick really easily, like too easily so I was ready to get out of the car, getting there and getting home. And even though I was only gone for the night, don't you just love getting home, I do.

A special Thank you to Caleb for his first official dog-sitting night...he survived and so did they.

Things I'm excited for:

-Pedicures with Kathryn and Gina (I haven't ever had one, but would love too)

-Possibly going to the Ohio State Fair, again something else that will be a first for me, and besides who doesn't love fair food? (according to my Mom, I went when I was little, who knew, Oh, well I'm not counting it, because I don't remember...)

-This 5K DogJog with Josi

-Friday evening, I get to watch Jack (Emily's baby boy), can't wait...while they go out to a movie, yea!

-oh, and my brothers new job, it's artsy fartsy and perfect for him, congratulations Caleb

Cousins

mkay, so when I say cousins, I mean the term loosely
as a term of closeness, as in these four are quite the click and although they aren't all related by blood they are related in terms of adopted family. You've got my two, Deezel and Josi and Aunt Janell's two, Sydney and Arthur.


I just love these two babies; I met Janell about 3 years ago at the dog park.
At the time she just had Sydney, the fawn dane, and after she first put Deezel in his place, she soon began singing a different tune and they've been friends ever since. I mean how could she resist Deezel's charms?







On Friday, I threw my two in the Jeep and headed over for some quality play time. Arthur and Josi are completely rotten and just love playing, along with getting into no good.






as in digging in the yard...


hmmm...Arthur how all that dirt end up on your tongue?







and while the spotteds were being ornery, Deezel and Sydney were getting some quality snuggle time in











Ha! Deezel's expression had Janell and I rolling on the ground, I think Sydney even found it hilarious...






After working up a good thirst and just hanging out,





we were ready to go home and eat



these two are eating me out of apartment and home!!! especially the grey one she's such a little piglet:)

oh, and just so you all know


Josi is not the only pillow stealer in the family...only at least Deezel is courteous enough to lay beside me. Which is good in the winter yet not so much in the summer, let's just call him a little furnace, o.k. a big furnace.

Salmon Burgers, Babies, and Long Lost Friends

so, the other night, Wednesday, I walked down to my friends (Kathryn and Gina) to have Salmon Burgers. Now, my Mom makes the best ever Salmon Patties (which are not the same thing as burgers), along with Meatloaf, Tuna Noodle Casserole, Spaghetti, Deviled Eggs, and pretty much everything...but then who's Mom doesn't make the best _____?

Back to the Salmon Burgers, now Kathryn and Gina were hesitant to let everyone see them - insisting that they did not look very appetizing ( I believe the term, puke burger, might have been vocalized), before grilling them...

besides chopped up fresh, deboned and skinless salmon, there's apparently some spinach, scallions, soy sauce, um...and raw ginger (grated sans grater; don't ask - that's a whole other story...

After getting over the 'oh, crap - I didn't spray the foil first and now the burgers are sticking' debacle, along with the 'dang these baked potatoes are taking way too long' and 'should we or should we not use the curdled sour cream' issues; we finally sat down to eat.

Now my picture doesn't do the thing justice; I guess I was a little to close with the close-up shot. This burger looks like a green burger, not the pink/green that it really was. Oh, and for toppings there's the ole' tomato and lettuce, along with some dijon mustard...overall the burgers were a success - everyone really surprisingly liked them.

Thanks for dinner girls...

Speaking of Kathryn, we ran into each other not to long ago, and realized, 'hey, I know that girl' - OU alums rarely forget a face...it turns out she lives a hop away from me.

here she is with her furkid, Skylar - you can't tell from this picture; but Skylar has those baby blues that just melt your heart. That and she's just so darn cute and very opinionated too. At first she was a little timid and unsure about Deezel and Josi (their size tends to have that effect), but she likes them now and they like her too.

here she is at lookout point; the place she likes to sit in her yard and people/dog watch.

on to babies...

Back in June I went with my Mom to a women's spiritual retreat and met Emily Martin. We instantly connected and I'm glad she's become a part of my life. She's married, has two furkids, and a currently 4 1/2 month old baby boy, Jack

now how adorable is this little man...you might have seen him not to long ago on NBC 4 . They did a piece on ways to save money in regards to babies and Emily is a big advocate of cloth diapers. They've come along way, baby - and are not the ones your grandma/mom used to use; now they are quite user friendly, not to mention wallet, plus they are a great way to go green, who knew?

Don't you just want to pinch those cheeks?

Last night was very humid/hot but, we wanted to keep our walking date, here's Emily with Jack and picture hogs Deezel and Josi

as I like to say a good dog is a tired dog; and trust me my two love air-conditioning the most when we get back from walking

and I love having tired, good dogs; they ususally lay on the floor for about 1/2 hour not moving a muscle. Then eventually decide 'wait, a minute - why am I laying on this floor' and move to softer ground.

mkay, so Deezel and Josi sleep in my bed with me, yes, I know...really it's their bed and I'm just fooling myself thinking it's mine, especially when considering Josi's favorite sleeping position of late...
this is from this morning; apparently she's decided that she's been missing out all this time on the pillow, and yes Amy that's Kip, and yes to everyone else I also share my bed with a stuffed bear - he has managed to elude being torn apart thus far. If you ask me I think that the furkids and the bear, Kip, are actually snuggle buddies.

The point is Josi insists on laying like this, while I am trying to sleep...my night consists of her shoulder digging into my back or being crushed when she manages to lay right on me. When I woke up this morning I slid out of bed and took this just to show everyone what a pillow stealer she's become. And just in case anyone is wondering, Deezel had already high-tailed it to his couch in the living room awhile ago...he had enough of girl time.

And now for some very exciting news...I checked my blog this morning, and yay! I had a comment...from one Miss Erinn Hoban and my jaw dropped open. She's very near and dear to me, yet we had lost contact about 3 long years ago. I even might have teared up a little, man do I miss her. She's goal number 81 in my 101 goals to do in 1001 days post from June 18th; in which I stated that I would find my long lost friends, Erinn Hoban and Matthew Hunter. One down, one to go...although technically she found me, I'm still counting it as partially completed. I'm soooo excited I can't wait to catch up, I'm about to pee my pants, okay not literally like someone I know...

oh, and Thanks Erinn for your comments, I love you girl!!

Flowers...why, oh why

Things I love:

My Black-Eyed Susan Flowers, this one's name is Lola

Things I don't love:

Wilting Flowers....why is this one so sad, what am I doing wrong? Please help save Evangeline...she's getting the same treatment as her perky sister. I make them trade spaces, I rotate them, I give them the same amount of water, lately I've been giving Evangeline pep talks...what do you suggest?

The Boys

My good friend, Janell (Aunt Janell to Deezel/Josi - she's basically a second Mom to them) came over for a visit last night with her babies, Sydney and Arthur. We took the furkids for a walk, Arthur's been having a rough time of late, so we kept it short that plus it was still a little to warm out.


Afterwards she stayed for dinner - Mike's potatoes and scrambled eggs-and while the girls took the comfy spots (the couch/twin bed) the boys decided to camp out on the floor.

Aren't they handsome?

And what are Mike's potatoes you ask; Yellow gold potatoes (yes, apparently it's a sin if you use another kind, say for instance, organic russet - how was I to know!), a yellow onion, fresh garlic - both coarsly chopped, and a healthy sprinkling of olive oil, ground blk. pepper and sea salt. You roast them and then apply a layer of cheedary cheesy goodness, melt and devour - gaining 10pds in the process....next time I make them I'll be sure to take a picture for all of you visual types:)

My Weekend

Boy, oh boy did I have a fun-filled full weekend!

Alright so Friday evening, consisted of working late and taking a walk w/ the doggies. Time consuming? yes Fun-filled? no, yet it was a relaxing way to unwind after work.

Saturday, I was up early (can anyone explain why it's impossible to sleep in on Sat/Sun, yet so tempting throughout the week?), out the door for a long (2hr) walk, with Deezel and Josi in tow, why of course. Then it was on to the grocery store - I'm a Kroger girl- we needed a few things and my Dad was coming into town for the night, so I wanted to get stuff for dinner. If you ask me I'd rather make dinner and visit than go out when entertaining relatives, but that's me.

I do have a new food obsession - True North (brand) Almond Clusters - yum:) oh, and Simply Orange, oj - with lots of pulp. I know that was random but I was thinking about the grocery store.

Afterwards, I spent a couple hours chopping up goodies in the kitchen - watermelon, onions, peppers, tomatoes, olives, lettuce...yes I decided to make tacos for dinner. Growing up, we loved taco night, where everyone made a mess while eating to the bursting point. Nonetheless, I wanted to have most of the food prepped because I was going out for the afternoon.

I went down to the North Market (downtown Columbus), to a wine tasting event with my friends, Kathryn, Gina and Kristy. I was really excited for two reasons, 1. who doesn't like wine? and 2. I love the Pesto from Pastaria, this stuff is amazing, and I needed to replinish my empty spot in the freezer.
The wine tasting was a good time, yet it was a scorcher and very crowded, I had never been to one before, and I'll definitely go again.

My dad showed up about the time I got home, we (Caleb, he and I) chatted while I finished dinner. Then we feasted on Tacos and went to the Chocolate Octupus for some good ole' ice cream for dessert. We planned on taking a little walk after that but got rained out. So I made some pasta, fresh cheese tortellini, for the pesto while the men watched Dangerous Catch on A&E.

Sunday, I was up early again and My Dad and I, along with the furkids took a long walk, making it back just in time before it started to rain. Then we went to try out Rise & Dine, a new breakfast place that recently opened near us, we all gave it a thumbs up - although I still like First Watch better. Around noon, my Dad took off for home and I finished up a book I was reading during the afternoon.

Deezel and Josi had a birthday party to attend at 6pm - Happy Birthday Scarlet- there friend was celebrating their 4th birthday. We had a really great time, lotsa treats (cupcakes - for dogs, beef and chicken and watermelon ice cubes, peanut butter in a cup) games and general run around like crazy dog playing filled up the next few hours. We were home from the party around 9pm and by then it was time to go to bed shortly and get ready for Monday, egh....back to the work week.

I Love My Furkids

I have two furkids that I'm completely, absolutely, unconditionally, hopelessy in love with.

Here's the general rundown on each of them:

Let's start with Deezel first because, 1. he's older and 2. just because I want to.

He's 3 yrs young (born 12.16.2004), and is my meet and greeter - he just loves people. He is my handsome boy that is very Tall to say the least, measuring close to 39" at his shoulder and weighs about 155lbs. Other things he loves: his couch, air conditioning, laying (not walking) in the sun, ice cubes, watching SportsCenter with my brother for 'man time', my Mom, sleeping, squeaky tennis balls, cow bones, Sydney, drinking water from the sink, snuggling with me, blankets and his sister, Josephine.I got Deezel first and he melted my heart from the beginning, in fact I wanted a black Dane with no white and ended up with the male with the most white, he was just so determined to stay by my side, even after his brothers lost interest, that I couldn't resist. After bringing him home I decided that I wanted one of his littermates, yet they had all been spoken for already. So I opted for a female from the next litter (they are actually 1/2 brother and sister - same papa), there was only one blue merle female, and I wrote a check before I even saw her, enter Josi....

Josi (Josephine) is also 3 yrs young (born 3.8.2005), and is the Calvin (from Calvin and Hobbes) that I always said I wanted. Growing up and still to this day, Calvin and Hobbes was/is my favorite comic strip and I've always said that I want lots of little boys just like Calvin. I didn't expect to get one in the female form, but she's completely ornery from nose to tail:-) and I wouldn't have it any other way. Things she loves: Trouble, my bed, being independant, giving kisses, keeping on the go, sleeping - yes she's quite the contridiction - Arthur, eating, destroying stuffed animals, cow bones, having her eyes covered while sleeping when there are lights on, her backpack, My Dad, eating everything, cuddly time with me, pestering her sister, Doobie (Caleb's cat) one would think that by now she would think that the cat is not that interesting anymore...and her brother Deezel. For anyone that's keeping tabs, she measures 34" at her shoulder and weighs close to 140lbs.

How cute is that face, tell me how am I to resist?

And this one, his leg's are longer than mine, that's so not fair......






Basically this is where all my money goes, just kidding, sort of.

They are two peas in a pod, I guess growing up with one another will do that. I love that they are both relatively the same age (separated by about 10wks) and that they do have each other. We are out everyday, o.k. maybe not during the winter, for our long walks, which is one thing we all love. The saying "a good dog is a tired dog" is so true.

Question: Who are your furkids?

Carmi's 101 Goals to do in 1001 Days:)

I've decided to participate in the 101 things in 1001 days project. You can find more about it here http://triplux.stilljournal.com/dayzero/



The Mission: Complete 101 preset tasks in 1001 days.



The Criteria: Tasks must be specific with a result that is clearly defined or measurable. Tasks must also be realistic and stretching (ie. represent some amount of work on my part).



Why 1001 Days?

The key to beating procrastination is to set a deadline that is realistic. 1001 Days (about 2.75 years) is a better period of time than a year, because it allows you several seasons to complete the tasks.



My Reasons - Being able to be held accountable by my peers, Motivation to be successful, and the Desire to be Happier:)



A Note: I've decided that I'll put $10 in my GOAL savings account for each goal completed and $5 for each one incomplete, this way I can be increasing my Savings by reaching my Goals.



Let's get Started on Monday 6/30/2008 and Finish on Monday 3/28/2011



Home
1. Clean carpets in Apartment
2. Transform Apartment into Home (through: furnishings, textiles, artwork...)
3. Frame / Hang-up Pictures
4. Get Renter's Insurance
5. Install gate with camera on driveway of new home
6. Convert new home into a Smart Home

Family / Relationship
7. Spend more quality time with family and friends
8. Allow Dad to retire (and become the unofficial groundskeeper at Serenity Acres)
9. Give Clete / Chris freedom for together time as well as alone to themselves time
10. Have Noah / Ben down for sleep-overs
11. Rent a Cabin at Old Man's Cave for a week of family time (Thanksgiving for example)
12. Establish a Holiday Tradition (in addition to cookies w/ Susay)
13. Take a Sister Only get -away with Chris
14. Send one snail mail "Thinking of You" letter / card each month for a year
15. Go on a Romantic Real Date...Again
16. Hire Cy to Landscape my New Home

Financial
17. Get a Piggy Bank for Change
18. Be able to Work from Home
19. Pay-off current CC
20. Pay-off Jeep Loan
21. Grow Savings / Checking Account(s)
22. Create a Tax savings account
23. Pay-off Student Loans
24. Open an Electric Orange account and a Sharebuilder account
25. Increase 401K percentage withheld AND Open a Roth 401K
26. Invest money (stock market/ CD's / mutual funds - T. Rowe Price / gold/ agricltr / oil)
27. Purchase my New Home w/ the perfect backyard oasis along with Plenty of space for Horses and rename it Serenity Acres

Health / Self-Improvement
28. Get a Success Log - Completed 7/14/2008
29. Get Prescription Glasses (my dogs ate my glasses a few years ago - perhaps it's time to replace them)
30. STOP Worrying
31. Have an Open Mind
32. Grow in Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem / Be Determined (Stop down-grading Myself instead Be That Girl)
33. Take up Hiking
34. Run (not jog) in a 5K / 10K / Half-marathon / and yes the big one A Marathon
35. Build a Success Consciousness (Visualize don't Wish)
36. BE HAPPY! (always live in the sun) and Believe in Myself - Train myself to be Positive at all Times
37. Think in terms of Giving; not Receiving
38. Know Thyself
39. Prove that I am twice as good as I think I Am
40. Reach a Healthy Weight
41. Complete a Pet First Aid course
42. Practice Yoga / Pilates twice a week for a 6 month period
43. Write Thank You notes - I wrote one on 7/7/08
44. Get a Tattoo



Pets / Animals
45. Enroll Deezel / Josi in Acme Canine Courses
46. Purchase a Kuranda Crate Bed for Josi
47. Give Deezel a paver patio in so that he can indulge in all the sun worshiping he desires (with something soft, like an outdoor bed to lay on, of course:)
48. Give Josi an opportunity to be the farm dog she is, and still love her when she eats horse poop
49. Give Goodies to Sydney and Arthur
50. Adopt through Harlequin Haven - Great Dane rescue
51. Install a wrought iron 6' fence around backyard
52. Bake/Make all of Deezel and Josi's Treats, also give treats to friends for their dogs
53. Purchase two horses through Flying W Farms (maybe a mastiff too - optional though, I'm partial to Great Danes)
54. Give Doobie (don't say it) a home with plenty of hiding spots and window ledges to perch on
55. Have Deezel become a registered Therapy Dog

Bettering Others
56. Participate in Big Brother, Big Sister
57. Donate to 10 Charities
58. Show others the power of thought through their Creative Mind
59. Help others anonymously
60. Treat a loved one to a day at the Spa once a month for a year
61. Leave generous tips for Servers - they are under appreciated
62. Donate Blood on a regular basis
63. Donate to Food Drives

Environment
64. Reduce my Carbon Footprint
65. Purchase re-usable grocery bags
66. Install Solar Panels on my new home
67. Start Composting
68. Install a Clothesline (reduce the use of the dryer)
69. Buy local produce (farmer's markets and such)

Food
70. Prepare one meal/week out of a cookbook
71. Entertain once/month for a year
72. Purchase an Ice Cream machine - make Dill Ice Cream (Pickle -and prove to all it will be delicious)
73. Make Stellar homemade Granola
74. Purchase a Pasta Machine - make my own
75. Learn to make my own tomato sauce along with to die for Meatballs
76. Can something - ex: Jelly/Preserves/Marmalade
77. Purchase a Juicer and a Dehydrater
78. Learn to make Amazing Snickerdoodles

Learning and/or Challenging
79. Start an Idea File
80. Learn to play the Guitar - perform at an Acoustic Night
81. Locate my long lost friends; Erinn Hoban / Matthew Hunter - partially completed, Erinn found me! on 7/17/08
82. Submit at a minimum 2 posts that appear on a blog other than my own
83. Send a Secret to Post Secret
84. Expand my Blog Readership
85. Master Photoshop
86. Learn Spanish
87. Write a Children's Book
88. Take a Photography class

Must-Haves
89. Purchase an Audi TT Coupe - Black (with butta leather interior and kick ass wheels)
90. Purchase a DSL Camera (Nikon D80, perhaps) and Master it
91. Purchase a Mac Laptop Notebook and a printer/copier/scanner machine to go with it
92. Purchase a pair of Loeffler Randall boots
93. Purchase the kitchen table from Ikea
94. Commission an Art piece from Kelly

Travel
95. Travel to Ireland / Scotland
96. Visit Amy
97. Travel to Chicago IL
98. Travel to Austin / San Antonio TX and Savannah GA
99. Take a Beach Vacation (bask in the sun, and bring along plenty of reading material)
100. Take a week long Cruise (Freestyle Cruising)

Near the Finish
101. Make a new 101 goals to do in 1001 Days list

Growing Rich in a way that really expresses you is just about the most constructive, healthful, joyous thing you can do for yourself. Go now and Make your Own 101 Goals:)

Remember to check back and see my progress - Carmi

Getting My Feet Wet

Here I go - this is a little intimidating; releasing my thoughts and opinions for the whole world to see.

My idea for this blog is to discuss the everythings of life while pursuing the rich = happy life. In using the word "rich" sure an endless supply of money could be a definition, yet it is only a part of the definition for "rich". Perfect Harmony in all aspects of life would be more of what I am seeking.

Here's a Question for Everyone:

"What is the greatest good one may expect from riches?"