Remember when that plane crashed into the Hudson River in New York? Remember how relieved I was when Captain Sullenberger responded "No" to Katy Couric's question: Did you pray?
Well, unfortunately for those on board this Tunisian flight over Italy chose the route of 'pray' and cost 16 people their lives. I guess the idiot was in full on panic mode and decided to pray to Allah and Muhammed his prophet. Well it worked for him I guess, but he will now spend the next 10 years in jail on charges of manslaughter.
My question is this: what kind of man is this? Not only does he abandon any sense by flat out trying to pray, but then he doesn't even pray for everyone on board?
Now all he has left to pray for is that he doesn't drop the soap.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Nice Story
Since I have become a dog owner, I have been purusing a dog message board for hints, trips and the odd story. Just now I found a good one:
A Dog's Purpose?
Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners, Ron, his wife Lisa, and their little boy Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for a miracle.
I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we couldn't do anything for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home.
As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.
The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker 's family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on. Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.
The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without any difficulty or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker's Death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives.
Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, ''I know why.''
Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me. I'd never heard a more comforting explanation. It has changed the way I try and live.
He said, ''People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life -- like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?''
The Six-year-old continued, ''Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long.''
Live simply.
Love generously.
Care deeply.
Speak kindly.
Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:
When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure Ecstasy.
Take naps.
Stretch before rising.
Run, romp, and play daily.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Be loyal.
Never pretend to be something you're not.
If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.
ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY!
--------------
Nice, eh?
Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners, Ron, his wife Lisa, and their little boy Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for a miracle.
I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we couldn't do anything for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home.
As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.
The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker 's family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on. Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.
The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without any difficulty or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker's Death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives.
Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, ''I know why.''
Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me. I'd never heard a more comforting explanation. It has changed the way I try and live.
He said, ''People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life -- like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?''
The Six-year-old continued, ''Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long.''
Live simply.
Love generously.
Care deeply.
Speak kindly.
Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:
When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure Ecstasy.
Take naps.
Stretch before rising.
Run, romp, and play daily.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Be loyal.
Never pretend to be something you're not.
If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.
ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY!
--------------
Nice, eh?
Friday, March 27, 2009
Taking the 'Canon' too seriously
Last night after the jackets 5-0 decisive victory over the Flames, I walked into the press conference room with Hitch where he whispered: 'After the conference you need to go straight home because we have had an incident'.
Great.
Hitch is very good at stirring me up and then leaving me hanging. It drives me crazy in fact and I have had many discussions with him regarding this very matter.
After the conference he took me aside and told me that they had received some anonymous calls (well, the guy must have forgot about that new fangled caller ID thing) that someone was going to take out Mason and blow up the building. Pretty serious stuff, really. Howson had taken Mason aside and informed him of the situation which, of course, sent worry through the poor kids' mind. He is a 20 year old rookie just trying to play hockey and start his career and now he is facing death threats?
It turns out it was nothing more than a drunken flames fan who was angry that his team was getting blown out. As each goal went in and every shot was stopped by Mason, he must have grown more irriated with the flames so he decided to take it out on Mason and the jackets. If you want to be mad for the flames losing, be mad at the flames!
The cops went to his house, arrested him, and charged him with a misdemeanor.
He was slightly intoxicated, and um, oh yeah...wearing a flames t-shirt.
You can tell he is a real hockey fan though...just look at that haircut.
Great.
Hitch is very good at stirring me up and then leaving me hanging. It drives me crazy in fact and I have had many discussions with him regarding this very matter.
After the conference he took me aside and told me that they had received some anonymous calls (well, the guy must have forgot about that new fangled caller ID thing) that someone was going to take out Mason and blow up the building. Pretty serious stuff, really. Howson had taken Mason aside and informed him of the situation which, of course, sent worry through the poor kids' mind. He is a 20 year old rookie just trying to play hockey and start his career and now he is facing death threats?
It turns out it was nothing more than a drunken flames fan who was angry that his team was getting blown out. As each goal went in and every shot was stopped by Mason, he must have grown more irriated with the flames so he decided to take it out on Mason and the jackets. If you want to be mad for the flames losing, be mad at the flames!
The cops went to his house, arrested him, and charged him with a misdemeanor.
He was slightly intoxicated, and um, oh yeah...wearing a flames t-shirt.
You can tell he is a real hockey fan though...just look at that haircut.
Monday, March 23, 2009
$150 on the line
A friend of mine text(ed?) me today while she was getting her car serviced. She was excited about her new iphone and was practicing her texting skills on me. She did a fine job by the way. As we were conversing she told me how an old lady was sitting there eating a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken and how starving she was.
I offered her $100 dollars to go and ask her for a hunk. I then upped the ante to $150. For me it would have been very high entertainment value and a great story for her and the old lady to tell. I mean the lady had a whole bucket of it as if she wouldn't have share with her. If someone asked me for something like that, I would without question offered up a piece. What kind of person would say no? Not many would in my opinion. It would be rather shocking to have a total stranger come up to you and ask, but if they did, their sheer courage and boldness should be rewarded don't you think?
It is something, however that I likely wouldn't do. I mean, what in the world is this women doing with an entire bucket of chicken? How old is it? Where have her dirty paws been and how many other dirty little clutchers have been in the bucket?
How is it though, that we will accept a bucket of chicken from people who are wearing a special little shirt and a visor so readily but would be reluctant to take it from and old lady in the waiting area of an Acura dealer? Just because they work there, they are no less strange than the lady chowing down in the middle of the day, really.
In the end the old bat fell into a saturated fat coma which provided the greatest opportunity to nap a hock, but my friend, she chickened out.
I offered her $100 dollars to go and ask her for a hunk. I then upped the ante to $150. For me it would have been very high entertainment value and a great story for her and the old lady to tell. I mean the lady had a whole bucket of it as if she wouldn't have share with her. If someone asked me for something like that, I would without question offered up a piece. What kind of person would say no? Not many would in my opinion. It would be rather shocking to have a total stranger come up to you and ask, but if they did, their sheer courage and boldness should be rewarded don't you think?
It is something, however that I likely wouldn't do. I mean, what in the world is this women doing with an entire bucket of chicken? How old is it? Where have her dirty paws been and how many other dirty little clutchers have been in the bucket?
How is it though, that we will accept a bucket of chicken from people who are wearing a special little shirt and a visor so readily but would be reluctant to take it from and old lady in the waiting area of an Acura dealer? Just because they work there, they are no less strange than the lady chowing down in the middle of the day, really.
In the end the old bat fell into a saturated fat coma which provided the greatest opportunity to nap a hock, but my friend, she chickened out.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
'High-Five' paying off
It was for nights like this one as to why I taught Billy 'high five'.
The jackets looked destined to be shut-out by a hard-working Florida Panthers team until the 17:14 mark of the 3rd period when Torres struck! 1-1 woohooo!!! Only two minutes to go in the third and we get a much needed point. I squaked and Billy jumped. He was alarmed but maintained his position next to me on the couch. "High-five Billy"...Billy looked at me and calmly placed his right paw onto my outstretched palm. Oh my god, irresistable.
Just over a minute later, Torres scores!!!!! I squaked again and Billy merely looked at me this time. He was now laying next to me. "High-five Billy". From his laying down position, he again, calmly put his right paw into my outstretched palm.
So cute.
English Please
Think back to how much our communication has changed in only the last 10 years. In 1999 I had my first ever cell phone--it was this huge 'Motorola' that had this flimsy antennae and these soft buttons that were hard to push. The cost of it was insane. 'Free minutes' were not invented yet.
We have progressed so rapidly in terms of cell phone technology, instant messaging, and text messaging it is quite astonishing. Since Al Gore invented the internet the stock on the word 'dot' has gone way up. Seriously, how often did you really use the word 'dot' before you had to say 'dot-com' about 10 times a day? Nobody really uses that expression: 'dot the 'i's' and cross the 't's' all that often do they? Other than that, 'dot' really never came up. Well, except my sister...she had a landlord named 'Dot' (her name was actually Dorkus but she went by 'Dot'--can you really blame her?) so my sister was very used to saying the word 'dot'.
Along with the the increased use of text messaging and instant messaging, people have created a new 'text language' to go along with it. How many times have you used the letters: 'tks' instead of writing out 'thanks', or 'u r' instead of writing out 'you are or are you'? What about 'ppl' instead of writing out 'people'. There are 1000's of abbreviations that can be used, but my question is this: why?
Are we really that lazy or too pressed for time, that we can't add the additional 3 or 4 letters? What are we really doing that we are too busy for this? Typically when I am texting someone I am bored to death doing nothing so I begin texting. I mean, texting in itself requires a very focused attention--small buttons, and you need both hands so I simply can't be doing anything else. Others who are using their blackberry's are the same--they are usually sitting on the bus or in a cab, or on route somewhere, so the additional letters are really going to put your schedule off? Pure sillyness if you ask me.
How did people function pre-cell phones? Forget about pre-cell phones, what about pre-answering machines? Remember when the phone would just ring and ring and ring with no voice mail picking up? Driving from place to place without any means of an emergency contact?
When you think back about how much phones have changed our lives in only the last 15 years it is remarkable. Is it a good thing that we are all connected all the time? I don't always answer my phone. Sometimes I just don't feel like being on it, but I have been around people when my phone is just ringing and it makes them very uncomfortable. Try it sometime...try just letting your phone ring while you are with other people and watch their reaction. Afterall, just because someone is phoning me it doesn't mean I am obliged to talk to them does it? It was their choice to call and talk to me, not the other way around. Why should I have to stop what I am doing agaist my will?
Don't be a prisoner to your phone and quit being lazy.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Season ticket holders you can live without.
My seats at the jackets game are about 3 rows above and just to the right of the visitors penalty box. There is a guy who is a ticket holder (he is there every game) who sits a few rows ahead of me. I have noted him only because I might end up killing him before the end of the season. Here's why:
I have no problem with people being disappointed in a players' play, it is fully understandable, however, when you are watching a jackets team that has, with 11 games remaining and already set at a franchise record in points, is it really necessary to be sarcastic and condescending after every mishap or goal against? The worst of it is the fact that he and his buddy yell cynical and snide remarks over several rows. I hate both of them. I guess people think that because they are ticket holders, they reserve the right to act as ignorant as they feel like it. They need to be reminded that they bought a seat to the game, not a share in the team.
The funny thing, however is how cocky people get when they are separated by a mere pane of glass. The idiot in front of me makes a 'come here' motion with his hand every time the opposing players are skating to serve their time. Yeah right. I had to laugh last week when 6'7" Zedeno Chara was heading to the box and the guy was motioning towards him all 'tough guy' like. Right. If that glass wasn't there and they were on the street, the fool would have been running the other way.
I also noticed the guy who sits right next to the penalty box barking at the players sitting in the box--Andrew Ladd, Brent Seabrook and Brian Campbell all got the brunt. I even noticed Seabrook barking back at the guy. The glass surrounding the penalty box is much higher than in the old days. Remember this:
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Hooligans
The other night at the Penguins game, the ceremony that they held for Hitch was very nice. The building was loaded and Pat Burns' speech was very honest and heartwarming, just as you would expect.
The only thing that was infuriating was there was a pocket of Penguins 'fans' near the rafters chanting: "Let's go Pens" throughout the entire ceremony. There is no problem being boisterous and loud in an oppositions building, it adds to the atmosphere, but when you chant through a ceremony for a huge milestone in someone's career, it is flat out disgusting and disrespectful. Couple that with the fact that Pat Burns, a man dying of cancer, came all the way there to share in that milestone and you couldn't be more classless.
If you can't pay respect for such a milestone in the hockey world, you are no longer a fan, you are just a Hooligan in a NHL sweater.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Not many like this one
Tonight Hitch and I had dinner with Pat Burns and his wife, Lynne. They came into town to be present at the ceremony they are having for Hitch reaching his "500th win" milestone.
For those of you who don't know Pat Burns, he is one of the top coaches to ever coach in the NHL who, like Hitch, never played in the NHL. He coached 1019 games and has 501 wins, won the Jack Adams award three times (NHL's award for Best Head Coach) and won the Stanley Cup in 2003 with the New Jersey Devils.
Pat coached with and intensity and committment that only a handfull of people possess. Here is an example of Pat being 'into it':
The look in his eyes says it all. The coach of the other team looks like he is too scared to move.
I first met Pat this May when he was an assistant to Hitch at the World Championships in Halifax. I liked him immediately. He is a salt of the earth, no nonsense kind of guy. Pat, a former cop, had a very intimidating presence behind the bench and garnered immediate respect from his players and opposing coaches alike. Meeting Pat at breakfast that morning I saw the heart that this man had, and within minutes, felt like I had known him for years.
He is a guy who, like Hitch, is very open and forthcoming about every topic. I loved the passion he held for his story telling and sense of humor that went along with it. I also got a chance to see the 'other' side of him when he was dealing with a team services guy for Hockey Canada. He quizzed the guy relentlessly about a back up plan in case they lost (a game vs. at team that there was NO chance that Canada was going to lose). The guy wasn't sure if Pat was serious or not, but Pat maintained his stern look and inquisition forcing him to organize a contingency plan. Once the guy left the table, Pat giggled at the notion of losing, but also conceded the fact that 'hey, anything can happen'.
I am drawn to people who are 'real', which it is one of the reasons that I really appreciate Hitch. There is nothing pretentious about him and there is no 'show' in his being. Pat is cut from the same cloth and so is his wife Lynne. Both Pat and Lynne have good energy and it is energy I could see myself spending time with. There aren't too many I can say that about.
So tonight there will be a ceremony preceeding the Penguins game acknowledging the huge milestone that both of these men have accomplished. The 500 Club. Pat flew in from Florida to be a part of it and share this moment with his good friend Hitch. I am sure it will be an emotional night and an exciting night for everyone. The building is sold out and the team has just come off two huge wins and are now facing a red hot team with two superstars in Crosby and Malkin. I find myself wrought with emotion at your average game so this one is going to be especially energized for me. Why?
Well, I am so proud of Hitch for reaching this milestone and getting the recognition he deserves. I am also thrilled to see how far the team has come in only a few months--when I left here in January 14 000 in the building was a pretty good night for attendance. Now the place rarely has less than 17 000 and sell outs are becoming a theme.
I am excited to actually be present for such a ceremony, but more than anything I am delighted that Pat Burns could be here to share this moment with his good friend. You see, Pat is currently not coaching in the NHL because he has just been diagnosed with his third bout of cancer. It is in his lungs this time and his prognosis is not good. He is still on staff with the NJ Devils in a scouting capacity while living out and enjoying whatever time he has left.
I will definitely need some Kleenex for this one.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Big D for Little B
We made it to Dallas safe and sound, although late into the 2.5 hr. flight I could smell canine urine...again. It is quite confusing as to why he would do that since I know he can hold his bladder for much longer than that. A combination of fear and stress? Who knows, but it made me feel a little bit uncomfortable.
I took him out during my lay over and he was scared and still seemingly tired. I spent some time comforting him and had him curl up in my lap. I was actually a little worried that he was sick, or worse, I damaged him in some emotional way. I offered him his favorite filet mignon milk bone treat, but he just sniffed it and turned away. Normally he can't get enough of them so I knew he wasn't right. Finally I put him on the ground and made him activate his little legs, and before long, he was back to his old self...just in time to get crammed into his kennel for another 2 hour flight.
He promptly fell asleep on the final leg and we arrived to Hitch's greeting. I took him out and Hitch took him in his arms and it was love at first sight by both of them. Billy's little tail was wagging and he was licking all over Hitch's chin and face, and I saw Hitch sneak a little kiss on the top of Billy's head. It was adorable.
I had Billy on the ground and when Hitch went off to grab my bags, he already had a little shadow and Billy trotted after him. We got home and Billy was enjoying checking out his new pad and smelling all the smells. He was loving having a new place to run around in, but more than that, I think he likes having two humans to follow around.
This morning Hitch got up at around 5:30 and Billy was up so I scooped him into the bed with me. When Billy licks, he is tired, when he is all bitey, he is ready to play. This morning he was very licky and before long, he came and cuddled up between my arms and we both were completely sacked out for the next 4 hours. The travel took a lot out of both of us and we had a nice recovery day today.
All ended well.
I took him out during my lay over and he was scared and still seemingly tired. I spent some time comforting him and had him curl up in my lap. I was actually a little worried that he was sick, or worse, I damaged him in some emotional way. I offered him his favorite filet mignon milk bone treat, but he just sniffed it and turned away. Normally he can't get enough of them so I knew he wasn't right. Finally I put him on the ground and made him activate his little legs, and before long, he was back to his old self...just in time to get crammed into his kennel for another 2 hour flight.
He promptly fell asleep on the final leg and we arrived to Hitch's greeting. I took him out and Hitch took him in his arms and it was love at first sight by both of them. Billy's little tail was wagging and he was licking all over Hitch's chin and face, and I saw Hitch sneak a little kiss on the top of Billy's head. It was adorable.
I had Billy on the ground and when Hitch went off to grab my bags, he already had a little shadow and Billy trotted after him. We got home and Billy was enjoying checking out his new pad and smelling all the smells. He was loving having a new place to run around in, but more than that, I think he likes having two humans to follow around.
This morning Hitch got up at around 5:30 and Billy was up so I scooped him into the bed with me. When Billy licks, he is tired, when he is all bitey, he is ready to play. This morning he was very licky and before long, he came and cuddled up between my arms and we both were completely sacked out for the next 4 hours. The travel took a lot out of both of us and we had a nice recovery day today.
All ended well.
Monday, March 9, 2009
First leg
Billy and I are sitting at the gate area getting ready to board our plane that stops in Dallas and then onto Columbus. So far he is getting aclimated to his new kennel and had a car ride from a crazy shuttle driver. I almost got car sick from his high speed turns, so I imagine Billy might have been the same. He was very good, however, calm and slept most of the trip.
He (well I mean me) got a bit nervous walking around the airport because of the motion with the kennel, but he was fine. I had to take him out of his kennel to walk through security with him and I noticed that he pee'd on his blanket and that freaked me out. Was he nervous and just pee'd or did he just have to pee and couldn't hold it? Maybe a bit of both, but regardless, he is sleeping now and I am glad for that.
The lady next to me asked me if he had a Xanax (or however you spell that drug), but he hasn't. He is handling the whole thing much better than I am...maybe I can find some of that at one of these airport stores.
I will try to post more from my stop in Dallas.
He (well I mean me) got a bit nervous walking around the airport because of the motion with the kennel, but he was fine. I had to take him out of his kennel to walk through security with him and I noticed that he pee'd on his blanket and that freaked me out. Was he nervous and just pee'd or did he just have to pee and couldn't hold it? Maybe a bit of both, but regardless, he is sleeping now and I am glad for that.
The lady next to me asked me if he had a Xanax (or however you spell that drug), but he hasn't. He is handling the whole thing much better than I am...maybe I can find some of that at one of these airport stores.
I will try to post more from my stop in Dallas.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Canine Crime Scene
I had a haircut today at 11 am. I piled all of Billy's toys in his bed in the kitchen, gave him some fresh water, put a pee-pad down and closed him in with the baby gate. Our normal 'me leaving the house' routine.
I stopped at the grocery store en route post haircut (she did a nice job, by the way) and then headed home. Upon hitting the garage door opener, I noticed the garage going down, not up like is supposed to. Translation: I left the garage opened, again...I did a quick visual inventory check of all the golf gear I have free-standing in the wide open for everyone to see. It was all in place.
Worse than that however, is that the door that leads into the house is rarely locked. Why? Because the garage is supposed to be closed all the time! It is such a bad feeling to have left the door open for any extended time period, especially when I do it overnight (2x)...yuck.
Anyway, I went inside to check on my puppy and I wasn't expecting to see what I saw:
No, it wasn't the poo that was smeared into the tile floor, I knew that would be there. It wasn't the two pools of pee on the pee pad, he is good that way too. What I didn't expect to see was the baby gate crooked, the water bowl tipped over and no puppy. Immediately my heart sank and thoughts started racing through my head.
"Billy, Billy, come here my Billy boy". Nothing. No Billy.
What the heck? Did someone come in and steal my puppy? I then looked to my 50" plasma tv and noticed it was still there. I mean, if they were going to steal something, Billy would be nearly irresistible, but face it, you could snag the tv, sell it and buy 4 'Billy's'.
There were signs of a struggle--the gate crooked and the water dish tipped over. How did that happen? Then again, how much struggle would one need to put forth to scoop up a 7 pound puppy? It was a prototypical canine crime scene.
I could feel the fear and panic rise throughout my body and my calling became more frantic as I roamed throughout the house. I don't have a big house, but Billy is a little guy and could be anywhere. "Billy, Billy, come 'ere boy".
I then started to fear that he could have chewed a cord and gotten electrocuted. I was now half expecting to find his cute little body laying somewhere. "Billy, Billy, come on my Billa-boy".
Finally I heard the jingling of his name tag against his collar--it was more music to my ears than normal. Here comes the little guy from out of my room somewhere. I am not sure if he was in his kennel (wouldn't that have been cute?) or from under my bed or in my closet. Regardless of where he came from, I was so relieved to see him.
I clearly didn't secure the baby gate well enough. What can I say? This is my first crack at motherhood. I scooped him up and promptly started asking him about the adventure he had been on. He had clearly just woken up and was his normal, licky, cuddly self. Imagine that little guy with free reign over the house? After I calmed down I began scouring the house for any stray piles of poop or pee. Nada. He had left it all neatly in the kitchen for me.
I was actually quite happy to see that MOST of the poo was on the kitchen floor still. He has been eating his poo lately which isn't ideal on a good day, but especially lately because he has a few parasites that we are trying to combat.
I then did my usual scrubbing and mopping the floor routine. It was sparkling. Maybe that is why Billy eats his poo...you know the saying: my floor is clean enough you could eat off of it. He is taking that waaaaay too literally.
I stopped at the grocery store en route post haircut (she did a nice job, by the way) and then headed home. Upon hitting the garage door opener, I noticed the garage going down, not up like is supposed to. Translation: I left the garage opened, again...I did a quick visual inventory check of all the golf gear I have free-standing in the wide open for everyone to see. It was all in place.
Worse than that however, is that the door that leads into the house is rarely locked. Why? Because the garage is supposed to be closed all the time! It is such a bad feeling to have left the door open for any extended time period, especially when I do it overnight (2x)...yuck.
Anyway, I went inside to check on my puppy and I wasn't expecting to see what I saw:
No, it wasn't the poo that was smeared into the tile floor, I knew that would be there. It wasn't the two pools of pee on the pee pad, he is good that way too. What I didn't expect to see was the baby gate crooked, the water bowl tipped over and no puppy. Immediately my heart sank and thoughts started racing through my head.
"Billy, Billy, come here my Billy boy". Nothing. No Billy.
What the heck? Did someone come in and steal my puppy? I then looked to my 50" plasma tv and noticed it was still there. I mean, if they were going to steal something, Billy would be nearly irresistible, but face it, you could snag the tv, sell it and buy 4 'Billy's'.
There were signs of a struggle--the gate crooked and the water dish tipped over. How did that happen? Then again, how much struggle would one need to put forth to scoop up a 7 pound puppy? It was a prototypical canine crime scene.
I could feel the fear and panic rise throughout my body and my calling became more frantic as I roamed throughout the house. I don't have a big house, but Billy is a little guy and could be anywhere. "Billy, Billy, come 'ere boy".
I then started to fear that he could have chewed a cord and gotten electrocuted. I was now half expecting to find his cute little body laying somewhere. "Billy, Billy, come on my Billa-boy".
Finally I heard the jingling of his name tag against his collar--it was more music to my ears than normal. Here comes the little guy from out of my room somewhere. I am not sure if he was in his kennel (wouldn't that have been cute?) or from under my bed or in my closet. Regardless of where he came from, I was so relieved to see him.
I clearly didn't secure the baby gate well enough. What can I say? This is my first crack at motherhood. I scooped him up and promptly started asking him about the adventure he had been on. He had clearly just woken up and was his normal, licky, cuddly self. Imagine that little guy with free reign over the house? After I calmed down I began scouring the house for any stray piles of poop or pee. Nada. He had left it all neatly in the kitchen for me.
I was actually quite happy to see that MOST of the poo was on the kitchen floor still. He has been eating his poo lately which isn't ideal on a good day, but especially lately because he has a few parasites that we are trying to combat.
I then did my usual scrubbing and mopping the floor routine. It was sparkling. Maybe that is why Billy eats his poo...you know the saying: my floor is clean enough you could eat off of it. He is taking that waaaaay too literally.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
The day after
The trade deadline has come and gone and the jackets came out even on their goalies, ahead in their forward position and are down a 2nd rounder. The jackets traded oft-injured Pascal Leclaire and a 2nd rounder for Antoine Vermette of Ottawa, and they then traded a 4th rounder for a goalie prospect called Kevin Lalande who will play in their farm system.
I am ecstatic about adding Vermette. We desperately need another scoring threat up front, and the fact that he can win faceoffs and kill penalties is all the better. A friend of mine would lament on how well this guy could skate and I look forward to watching him.
As much as I wish we would have added an NHL capable backup and possibly another forward, I am content with Scott's acquisitions and look forward to the stretch run.
I am ecstatic about adding Vermette. We desperately need another scoring threat up front, and the fact that he can win faceoffs and kill penalties is all the better. A friend of mine would lament on how well this guy could skate and I look forward to watching him.
As much as I wish we would have added an NHL capable backup and possibly another forward, I am content with Scott's acquisitions and look forward to the stretch run.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
A week later
No, this isn't a post about Billy, directly but more about how my life has changed a week after getting him.
Since getting Billy, my life has changed in the following ways:
-I am typically up twice a night and up earlier in the morning:
Billy usually wakes up at about 3 am to go for a pee and then he is up at around 6 am. I don't mind this at all actually...probably because of where I live. Taking a puppy out to pee at 3 am in the dead of winter in Canada (or another cold climate) would suck in a big way, but here it is only a matter of slipping on a pair of sweats, sweatshirt and of course, a pair of socks. He goes promptly and I put him back to bed and we are both asleep within minutes.
-My kitchen floor has never been cleaner:
When I go to the golf course, I confine Billy to the kitchen because it is tile and if he relieves himself, it is easy to clean up. I put his bed in there, all of his chew toys his water and a little bit of food to occupy him and of course, his pee pads. When I come home, there is usually a few places where he has 'missed' the pee pad which require cleanup. Every day I get the mop and the Mr. Clean out and sanitize the area. I NEVER did that before I had Billy.
-I laugh and smile more:
This isn't to say that I was an unhappy person pre-Billy, but how can one NOT be amused, touch and entertained by a puppy who looks like this:
-Mentally I am more taxed/stimulated:
People talk all the time about how much 'work' a puppy is. In terms of the physical work of having one, it isn't that big of a deal, but mentally it is where you get the work out. I find I am constantly thinking about where he is, if he has pee'd/pooped and whether or not he needs to go out. He typically doesn't stray to far away from my side, but when he does, I am constantly tracking him to see what he is up to. Face it, nobody likes the idea of cleaning up dog poop from your rug. I also worry more about his well being and comfort. He doesn't like to be too far away from me, and when he is tired, I feel bad that he is up and down and feels the need to follow me around the house when I am doing laundry or something. I need to get over that. I really only relax when he is asleep. I feel like I also get a break because I know he won't be peeing in his sleep.
-Traveling considerations:
In the past, I would punch up travelocity and book the cheapest flight I could find. With Billy, I have to call the airline and make sure that they have room for a pet on board. Each airline has it's own pet policy and it is necessary to familiarize myself with those. We are taking our first trip together on Monday--I am sure it will be fine, but I imagine that will be blog-worthy.
-I have some structure in my day:
Pre-Billy I didn't have to worry about doing things in a timely fashion. Because he is a puppy, I don't want to leave him alone for too long so I just get things done quicker. Also, I miss him when I am gone and look forward to coming home to be with him.
-I get waaay more freshair:
I NEVER used to sit in my backyard. Now, I am out there every day hanging with Billy. He isn't a big fan of going outside by himself yet, so I usually go out and sit in the chair while he does his thing. In the morning I will take my computer out there and read all of my hockey articles while I sit with him. It gets me away from plopping on the couch and having the fresh morning air to breath in is energizing.
-I have played less xbox:
The only time I get a few games in online is when he is asleep or if he has just gone to the bathroom. I am just too concerned with his bowel movements to be fully engaged with the Blackout Kings at this moment. Don't worry, I will be back in full when he gains some independence.
-My hands and arms are all scratched up:
Yes, he is a puppy and has razor sharp teeth so it goes with the territory. It is no problem.
-There are toys and chewie things all over my house:
He is a little boy and needs things to play with. I don't mind at all. I like feeling like he relies on me and looks to me for leadership.
-No privacy:
Because he follows me everywhere I always have someone watching me shower and go to the bathroom. Nothing is cuter than seeing him lick the outside of the shower door. I have glass doors and to see his cute little mouth and tongue smush up against the glass is adorable!
-Financial
Of course there was the cost of buying him, but then there are the costs of dog food, toys, travel kennel, vet visits, etc. I knew this coming in and I don't mind one bit. He is worth every penny!
My life is different since Billy, but there is nothing that he has brought with him that isn't more than manageable. I just wish he would appreciate my singing more than he seems to.
Since getting Billy, my life has changed in the following ways:
-I am typically up twice a night and up earlier in the morning:
Billy usually wakes up at about 3 am to go for a pee and then he is up at around 6 am. I don't mind this at all actually...probably because of where I live. Taking a puppy out to pee at 3 am in the dead of winter in Canada (or another cold climate) would suck in a big way, but here it is only a matter of slipping on a pair of sweats, sweatshirt and of course, a pair of socks. He goes promptly and I put him back to bed and we are both asleep within minutes.
-My kitchen floor has never been cleaner:
When I go to the golf course, I confine Billy to the kitchen because it is tile and if he relieves himself, it is easy to clean up. I put his bed in there, all of his chew toys his water and a little bit of food to occupy him and of course, his pee pads. When I come home, there is usually a few places where he has 'missed' the pee pad which require cleanup. Every day I get the mop and the Mr. Clean out and sanitize the area. I NEVER did that before I had Billy.
-I laugh and smile more:
This isn't to say that I was an unhappy person pre-Billy, but how can one NOT be amused, touch and entertained by a puppy who looks like this:
-Mentally I am more taxed/stimulated:
People talk all the time about how much 'work' a puppy is. In terms of the physical work of having one, it isn't that big of a deal, but mentally it is where you get the work out. I find I am constantly thinking about where he is, if he has pee'd/pooped and whether or not he needs to go out. He typically doesn't stray to far away from my side, but when he does, I am constantly tracking him to see what he is up to. Face it, nobody likes the idea of cleaning up dog poop from your rug. I also worry more about his well being and comfort. He doesn't like to be too far away from me, and when he is tired, I feel bad that he is up and down and feels the need to follow me around the house when I am doing laundry or something. I need to get over that. I really only relax when he is asleep. I feel like I also get a break because I know he won't be peeing in his sleep.
-Traveling considerations:
In the past, I would punch up travelocity and book the cheapest flight I could find. With Billy, I have to call the airline and make sure that they have room for a pet on board. Each airline has it's own pet policy and it is necessary to familiarize myself with those. We are taking our first trip together on Monday--I am sure it will be fine, but I imagine that will be blog-worthy.
-I have some structure in my day:
Pre-Billy I didn't have to worry about doing things in a timely fashion. Because he is a puppy, I don't want to leave him alone for too long so I just get things done quicker. Also, I miss him when I am gone and look forward to coming home to be with him.
-I get waaay more freshair:
I NEVER used to sit in my backyard. Now, I am out there every day hanging with Billy. He isn't a big fan of going outside by himself yet, so I usually go out and sit in the chair while he does his thing. In the morning I will take my computer out there and read all of my hockey articles while I sit with him. It gets me away from plopping on the couch and having the fresh morning air to breath in is energizing.
-I have played less xbox:
The only time I get a few games in online is when he is asleep or if he has just gone to the bathroom. I am just too concerned with his bowel movements to be fully engaged with the Blackout Kings at this moment. Don't worry, I will be back in full when he gains some independence.
-My hands and arms are all scratched up:
Yes, he is a puppy and has razor sharp teeth so it goes with the territory. It is no problem.
-There are toys and chewie things all over my house:
He is a little boy and needs things to play with. I don't mind at all. I like feeling like he relies on me and looks to me for leadership.
-No privacy:
Because he follows me everywhere I always have someone watching me shower and go to the bathroom. Nothing is cuter than seeing him lick the outside of the shower door. I have glass doors and to see his cute little mouth and tongue smush up against the glass is adorable!
-Financial
Of course there was the cost of buying him, but then there are the costs of dog food, toys, travel kennel, vet visits, etc. I knew this coming in and I don't mind one bit. He is worth every penny!
My life is different since Billy, but there is nothing that he has brought with him that isn't more than manageable. I just wish he would appreciate my singing more than he seems to.
Hypocrite
Do you remember the story about the lady in the yellow mercedes?
Well, the other day I was driving to my appointment in Palm Desert and what did I see? The same yellow mercedes coming out of the same place it turned into, and the same blond....on the cell phone.
It would have been great had she turned into my stream of traffic--oh man, talk about pointing out the hypocrisy!
Well, the other day I was driving to my appointment in Palm Desert and what did I see? The same yellow mercedes coming out of the same place it turned into, and the same blond....on the cell phone.
It would have been great had she turned into my stream of traffic--oh man, talk about pointing out the hypocrisy!
I forgot all about this
A few weeks ago someone from the RCGA contacted me about a little online interview. Here is what came of it (check out the link--there is a picture of me on there and I actually like it, it looks like I am up to something):
Corina Kelepouris
Hometown:
Drayton Valley, Alberta
Birth Date:
5/31/1973
Birthplace:
Drayton Valley, Alberta
College:
University of Alberta
Degree:
Physical Education
The RCGA recently had the opportunity to catch up with Drayton Valley, Alta. native Corina Kelepouris as she prepared for the upcoming golf season. Here’s what the CN Canadian Women’s Tour veteran had to say.
Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA): What are your goals for the 2009 golf season?
Corina Kelepouris (CK): My goal is to get better. If I get better than I am right now, my results will take care of themselves.
RCGA: When you’re not golfing, what other activities do you do for fun?
CK: When I am not playing or practicing golf, I enjoy watching hockey. I grew up an Oilers fan, but am very good friends with Ken Hitchcock who is the head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets so I am a huge jackets supporter. I am also a bit of a 'gamer' and spend time playing xbox. I like playing sports, in the off-season like ball hockey and a bit of ice hockey. I also like to read memoirs and books by Karl Pilkington and watch anything he is in.
RCGA: How long have you been playing golf and who introduced you to the sport?
CK: I have been playing golf for about 25 years. My mom bought my dad a set of clubs for Christmas one year and my sister and I went with them the first time and I hated it. We just walked around with them and thought it was as boring as it could be. After that I started going with my dad and then began playing with friends all throughout my youth.
RCGA: How will you prepare for the 2009 season?
CK: I will prepare for 2009 with my coach on and off over the next few months and get into better physical fitness for the season.
RCGA: Have you ever considered playing another sport besides golf professionally? Why?
CK: Not really, but I do think it would be fun to be a good hockey player. Playing in the ultimate team sport like hockey would be something totally different than being in an individual sport like golf.
RCGA: What’s on your iPod/Mp3 player?
CK: I have a wide variety on my iPod, Johnny Cash, Black Eyed Peas, Rolling Stones. Right now, I am enjoying Ricky Gervais’ podcast on my iPod. They are hilarious and well worth downloading.
RCGA: Before a tournament, do you do anything to calm your nerves?
CK: I tend to do a lot of visualizing and breathing. I stick to my routine and do everything I can to stay in the moment.
RCGA: When did you know that golf was something that you wanted pursue professionally?
CK: When I was 15 I started to win some golf tournaments. I remember doing a T.V. interview and stating that it was my dream to play on the LPGA Tour. I was having some success and turning pro seemed like the right step. I turned pro in May of '98 and have been at it ever since.
RCGA: To date, what has been your favourite golf tournament you’ve competed in?
CK: It is always fun to play in Canada and do well.
RCGA: Which LPGA tournaments do you hope to qualify for in the 2009 season?
CK: It is my goal to play in tournaments that feature the world’s best players. The CN Canadian Women’s Open and the U.S. Open would be two tournaments that fit into that category. I also keep a blog http://www.fairwaysanddreams.blogspot.com; It is just random observations or things that I have noted/experienced.
Corina Kelepouris
Hometown:
Drayton Valley, Alberta
Birth Date:
5/31/1973
Birthplace:
Drayton Valley, Alberta
College:
University of Alberta
Degree:
Physical Education
The RCGA recently had the opportunity to catch up with Drayton Valley, Alta. native Corina Kelepouris as she prepared for the upcoming golf season. Here’s what the CN Canadian Women’s Tour veteran had to say.
Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA): What are your goals for the 2009 golf season?
Corina Kelepouris (CK): My goal is to get better. If I get better than I am right now, my results will take care of themselves.
RCGA: When you’re not golfing, what other activities do you do for fun?
CK: When I am not playing or practicing golf, I enjoy watching hockey. I grew up an Oilers fan, but am very good friends with Ken Hitchcock who is the head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets so I am a huge jackets supporter. I am also a bit of a 'gamer' and spend time playing xbox. I like playing sports, in the off-season like ball hockey and a bit of ice hockey. I also like to read memoirs and books by Karl Pilkington and watch anything he is in.
RCGA: How long have you been playing golf and who introduced you to the sport?
CK: I have been playing golf for about 25 years. My mom bought my dad a set of clubs for Christmas one year and my sister and I went with them the first time and I hated it. We just walked around with them and thought it was as boring as it could be. After that I started going with my dad and then began playing with friends all throughout my youth.
RCGA: How will you prepare for the 2009 season?
CK: I will prepare for 2009 with my coach on and off over the next few months and get into better physical fitness for the season.
RCGA: Have you ever considered playing another sport besides golf professionally? Why?
CK: Not really, but I do think it would be fun to be a good hockey player. Playing in the ultimate team sport like hockey would be something totally different than being in an individual sport like golf.
RCGA: What’s on your iPod/Mp3 player?
CK: I have a wide variety on my iPod, Johnny Cash, Black Eyed Peas, Rolling Stones. Right now, I am enjoying Ricky Gervais’ podcast on my iPod. They are hilarious and well worth downloading.
RCGA: Before a tournament, do you do anything to calm your nerves?
CK: I tend to do a lot of visualizing and breathing. I stick to my routine and do everything I can to stay in the moment.
RCGA: When did you know that golf was something that you wanted pursue professionally?
CK: When I was 15 I started to win some golf tournaments. I remember doing a T.V. interview and stating that it was my dream to play on the LPGA Tour. I was having some success and turning pro seemed like the right step. I turned pro in May of '98 and have been at it ever since.
RCGA: To date, what has been your favourite golf tournament you’ve competed in?
CK: It is always fun to play in Canada and do well.
RCGA: Which LPGA tournaments do you hope to qualify for in the 2009 season?
CK: It is my goal to play in tournaments that feature the world’s best players. The CN Canadian Women’s Open and the U.S. Open would be two tournaments that fit into that category. I also keep a blog http://www.fairwaysanddreams.blogspot.com; It is just random observations or things that I have noted/experienced.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Another post about Billy...
Just kidding...
Okay, okay...I know, I have been slacking lately. It isn't because I haven't wanted to write, it is just that I have been consumed by raising Billy and I don't want every blog post to be about how cute he is and all the funny little things that he has done. I don't want to be one of those 'parents' who only talks about their kids and expects everyone else to think their kids are as cute/smart/funny as they do. You know the type...and if you are one of those, cut it out.
I will comment on how my friend started the dryer and didn't realize until about 5 minutes into the cycle, that her cat was in with the towels. Apparently she came out a little dizzy and very hot, but is fine. Thankfully someone got a 'feeling' that she might be in there and they were right...wow...poor cat, what a terrible way to die.
Oh, okay...let me tell you about this:
So about a week or so ago I was talking to this guy at my course who was getting new gear from the Titleist van. He was commenting on how his chipping was poor and joked that I might be able to help him. I don't profess to be a great teacher, but I can help someone with their chipping/pitching, no problem. Anyway, it was a brief conversation and that was that.
I then ran into him at the golf course two days ago. He was with his new irons at the range so I went and asked him how they were and started chatting the way only golfers can. His wife was hitting balls next to him with her ipod on, but I made sure to stop and say hello to her. Wives can be funny with the 'stay away from my man' looks and attitude sometimes, so I always make a point of trying to make them feel comfortable with my intentions (basically that there aren't any). Most of the time it works, but sometimes they have so many issues, they can't get past it. How can I tell? I can just feel it coming out of them.
Anyway, he started to hit a few pitches and I asked him if he wanted to know what I saw. He accepted and so I showed him a thing or two and immediately he was hitting it higher than he ever had before. I could see he was excited and he wanted to go to the chipping area to work on it. He was very appreciative and thanked me and headed off as I went back to my place on the range. I looked over and saw that he needed help, so I set off to give him a few tweaks. I walked past his wife and in a friendly, good-natured way, I said: "I am going to go help him out". Her response:
"I don't think he needs any. He has too much going on in his brain with it as it is so it might just confuse him"
I could see that she didn't want me talking to 'her man' so I said: "Ah, okay. I will just let him be then and work on my own stuff." What I felt like saying was: "ease up you dumb biotch, he DOES need my help and I am NOT interested in your idiot husband."
It has always been about the golf for me. When I was young I always hung out and played golf with guys because, well, none of my girl friends played golf. As I grew older, it was still about the golf. When I turned pro, it was especially about the golf. I don't play golf so I can meet men and be around guys. I meet guys because I play golf. If THEY think it is about anything other than the golf, they are mistaken.
Even at 35 years old it is still about the golf. I guess the issue is that the wives sometimes have a hard time understanding that because for them, often, it is about something else...the clothes, the social network, or putting on some kind of appearance and so it is RARELY about the golf. For them to comprehend that I actually just want to help their husbands' pitch the ball better makes their make-up crack and their hair go flat.
I went over and helped him anyway.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)