Pet Crazy Lady

Unwinding before Lotusphere

2012-01-12T22:19:00.000-06:00

I really didn't want to travel this month but Lotusphere is a double edged sword. I'm exposed to so much technical information - that you'd think I could find within my own company w/o having to travel. At the same time it's EXHAUSTING. There are so many customer meetings and other events I have to attend that I'm glad when it's over.
In the calm before the storm, late at night, I try and relax via the internet. One of my favorite things to do is enter contests like this one http://www.urbansherp.com/sweepstakes/crate-barrel-sweepstakes-2012-01-entry

Interviewing new sitters

2012-01-12T21:51:00.000-06:00

I had hoped I had a long term sitter lined up, but alas health issues have sidled my regular person. I'm always concerned that I'll end up in a situation where, if something goes wrong, they'll rat me out to the city. It's also a balance between COST of the sitter (because my herd is so huge). I also have a friend who has been beyond incredible to/for me.If daughter(s) want the $$ then I'll choose them but I was impressed with my "more expensive" option.
I always wonder what a stranger feels when they enter the insanity that is the home of a person with a herd.I don't sugar coat it. Yes, I cleaned today. Yes I scooped the litters but that didn't stop someone from leaving a couple of turd nuggets out in the front room! At least the dogs (and Marco,the cat, who seems to love just about everyone) gave the unknown sitter paws up.

OK I've been remiss

2012-01-03T20:25:00.000-06:00

So much has hapened with the herd. I took a big vacation this fall (to the Galapagos:) and the herd did well.... until I got home. Apparently they were stressed and whomever had the feline URI virus and those that didn't already have it, caught it. I ended up with 10 cats all sick at the same time.
I also noticed that Franklin had become very thin... o off to the vet we went. The long and short of it all is - he had lung cancer. Operable? Possible but the survival rate in his condition is 50-50 and it's not a cure. This past weekend, I saw that Texas A&M has a dog/cat cancer database so I'm registering him there. Maybe there's a trial out there for him.
Meanwhile, my oldest cat, Catrina has a thyroid condition. She's responding well to oral medication.
Then there's the NEW cat that showed up amd has moved in now. Clara Belle is quite the diva. It just seems that the holiday has been spent shuttling pets back and forth to the vet's. Tomorrow Cooper is going - he appears to have some sort of a skin condition.
Alas, I knew this was going to happen sooner or later. Not looking forward to what 20122 has in store for some of the herd members.

Where does the time go?

2011-05-03T23:30:00.000-05:00

I suppose traveling the first two weeks both in March and April have something to do with it. Then there's always the clean-up when I get home from a trip. Add in Fritz having a scary, long seizure and rushing him to the animal hospital at 3 AM and ....
Drum roll please .... acquiring a new "part time" cat. I call Cooper my "part time" cat because while he seems to enjoy the indoor life, he hasn't quite broken himself from the freedom of being out doors. I will say, he is looking better for the part time care he allows me to give him. He's been neutered. The wounds from his last fight have healed (he still needs the broken tooth removed) and most recently, it looks like I'm winning the war with the ear mites. I actually see fur on the back of his ears even if there's still some crud in the ears. What a wonderful boy for letting me clean his ears.
So to unwind tonight I'm making it through my email and enter a few contests and well, dream of winning a new iPad from The Centsible Life & CheckNGo . I can't seem to bring myself to purchase one but wow how this would come in handy for my upcoming 50th birthday adventure. I have booked the tickets to Ecuador and put down a deposit on a Galapagos cruise. I'm also going to do two post cruise tours in order to see more birds (and hopefully more animals). I mean what else would the Pet Crazy Lady do on vacation?

Beautiful Weather

2011-03-17T20:42:00.000-05:00

Makes walking the dogs such a pleasure. I think the boys are enjoying the nice weather as well - Zane has been especially playful for an old boy. It warms my heart that he wants to play wrestle and drink from the hose. I love my boys so much I wish they could stay young forever.
Speaking of nice weather, wouldn't it be nice to win a fully furnished home in California? I know I wouldn't mind winning a chance at this raffle from Flyinggigglesandlollipops.com

Cold and windy day

2011-02-09T11:56:00.000-06:00

Makes me have no energy and the pets sleepy. I wish I had some energy because I need to put the rest of my kitchen away and focus on the last few steps. That's why I entered this http://www.homeconstructionimprovement.com/renew-redo-your-bath-home-depot-giveaway/ the extra $200 would help me buy the grout, sealer and some of the tile even - to do the back splash. Zane wants me to finish this so he won't have to run into the junk laying around here. He wants me to win!

Stainless Steel Feeding Dishes

2011-01-23T21:12:00.000-06:00

Stainless dishes are supposed to help with cat "acne" but I still have a couple of pets still get this. Regardless, they are the easiest to keep clean. I either soak them in water or pop them into the dishwasher. I can always use another one so I entered this contest Cake Mom

Fighting Pet Odors

2011-01-23T20:57:00.000-06:00

One of the reasons I renovated was to make it easier to keep my home odor free. I also use air fresheners and particularly love the one featured here http://jamielz.blogspot.com/2011/01/febreze-pet-odor-eliminator-review-and.html
Target used to carry it; the grocery store used to carry it - now it's only at Petco or on-line but at a big price. I sure hope I win one from Cake Mom.

Pet-a-fying the home

2011-01-23T20:31:00.000-06:00

It's been a long haul. I pulled the rip-cord on the renovating my Austin house to be more pet-friendly. By that I mean, when you have as many pets as I have, you're constantly cleaning. I'm hoping they won't be able to ruin the bamboo kitchen cabinets because bamboo is supposed to be a very tough wood. Likewise, the counter top will be granite (effective tomorrow). The floor- is travertine - and I know from my last house this is incredibly pet friendly. You don't have to worry about them scratching it up; when they have an "accident" you want wipe it up. The baseboards - well - I think they can ruin these with their "accidents" but I bought finger-joined wood (not MDF which wicks things up). Time will tell - and you know I'll post my finding here.
Now that I've shelled out all this money to renovate the home, it sure would be nice to offset the cost of pet supplies by winning a $100 gift card to my favorite store Target. That would cover oh maybe a month's worth of cat litter.

Surrogate Cats

2010-12-27T15:36:00.001-06:00

One thing nice about coming "home" for Christmas is my sister has cats. This time around her college aged daughter dropped off her cat for care while she went off to Costa Rica to perform some research work (for credit - smart girl). Her cat, Mimi, has kept me company today. I've been sort of stuck - no car - while my sister went to work and her retired husband took their son off to a soccer tournament.
I've been a couch potato, watching TV and entering contests amongst other activity (all indoors - this is Michigan and winter after all).
It's nice to have the time to also hit a few blogs; discover new things like this beta site http://www.joeshopping.com which describes itself as:
"JoeShopping.com combines the best elements of both shopping and social network websites. Focused on helping shoppers connect with other shoppers, JoeShopping is a social shopping site where users can comparison shop, discuss and review products, win prizes, upload videos, share favorite products, offer advice and so much more."
Sounds like an interesting site.

New Year's Resolutions

2010-12-24T19:59:00.000-06:00

2010 was a long year .... I accomplished a lot but it took a lot out of me. I've dubbed this year the beautification of the interior of my home and 2011 will be the beautification of the exterior of me. Wouldn't it be great if I could move a gym into my home After reading that review I went and checked out Total Gym Direct for myself and would love to own this.

Modern Family - Mother Tucker Episode

2010-12-21T19:56:00.000-06:00

For someone in my "predicament" I found this exchange just a gut buster:

Alex: So dumb guys go for dumb girls and smart guys go for dumb girls? What do smart girls get?

Phil: Cats, mostly.

Next year....

2010-12-21T19:45:00.000-06:00

This year I stimulated the economy by undertaking some big renovation items on the humble homestead. Once they're paid off (some of them are on 12 mos. no interest) it's time to invest in a new mattress. When I do - what with all my cats - I'd love to win a high quality mattress protector. I hadn't heard of Legget & Platt before but wow that's some quality looking stuff!

Sam, sam - why?

2010-12-18T18:41:00.000-06:00

For a week I was at 15 indoor cats. Sam was the newest addition - a Siamese mix I trapped while trying to reclaim my Bob-cat. I neutered Sam; ensconced him in a lovely bed, his own litter box, and food and water in my bathroom. He was taking things pretty good. Then he decided to venture out - Bandit took an intense disliking to him. I have no idea why - Bandit normally displays an infinity towards the homeless.
Then I made the stupid decision to try and pick Sam up and was rewarded with him clamping down on my arm. The next morning I knew the bite was infected. While I'd love to say this was my first animal bite, it wasn't but it was the worst. Maybe the fact that he is Feline AIDS+ had something to do with the intense reaction my body had to this bite. It's been 4 days and it still hurts. At least the swelling has gone down.
Sadly though, it appears Sam succeeded in fleeing last night - most probably during one of Zane's many potty breaks. Sam had been hovering near the storm door. I can only surmise that he managed to bolt out or ... waited until the storm door closed but didn't latch and the while I was busy with blind Zane and his bio break and went away.
Yes, I didn't want a 15th cat. Yes, at least I neutered him - but that's not the point. Oh well..

Sears could be my Santa

2010-12-10T21:07:00.000-06:00

Wouldn't it be wonderful if the $300 I spent at the vet for a cat I didn't own ... but now do ... was offset by winning $500 at Sears? There are so many things at Sears I could USE and I'd feel Santa had blessed me for rescuing the pets that I have. Right now I'm looking at the (2) schnauzers snoozing and (6) cats sitting with me and knowing I need to open a can of food and mix in some pain meds for Sam (the new guy). He is amazing to me - knowing what a bruiser he was outside - to find he wasn't frantic or angry in the trap. He's pettable; he now rubs against my legs. I hope this translates to how he interacts with the other cats in the house. The irresponsibility of humans maddens me to no end.

Dear Santa ....

2010-12-10T20:42:00.000-06:00

Now that Bob is AWOL (I haven't given up that he'll come home) and you brought me yet another cat I had to neuter, test, vaccinate, etc. how about you bring me some cool looking litter boxes from ModKat. Given all the $$ I've spent basically being my own feral cat rescue organization without the benefit of tax deductions.

What should Santa have brought me instead?

2010-12-10T19:10:00.002-06:00

A HEPA Filtered Vacuum like that one.

No Santa, No.

2010-12-10T18:26:00.000-06:00

I was a good girl this year, so why is it that the next round of renovations resulted in Bob (feral) getting out. There are two brutes in the 'hood having a turf battle. I heard cat fights 2 nights in a row after he got out so I set my live trap out. You guessed it - not Bob - but brute #1.
Instead of enjoying my xmas money from Mom & Dad, I spent it on neutering "Sam". Sam obviously wasn't born feral. He can be handled; he lets you pet him. He's pretty mellow for such a fighter and yes, he's feline AIDS positive. Lucky me. I seriously doubt anyone will be wanting to volunteer to take him off my hands even as gorgeous as he is. He's part Siamese, mixed with white and has blue eyes. He's got a massive head that the vet says will lessen as the testosterone drains from his system. Right now, he's isolated in my bathroom but he clearly wants out of there. I just don't know how he's going to get along with the other 13 in here.
Now that I'm out that money, I'm back entering contests on line. Being vegetarian, Cracker Barrel is one of the few restaurants where I can get a vegetable plate for a meal. There's a caveat because they sneak meat into their veggies. You have to ASK. For example, who would've thought lima beans would have HAM mixed in?!

Heading Home

2010-11-26T11:21:00.000-06:00

This visit was far better than last December - even with my 5 year old nephew's visit to the emergency room. Alex managed to put a inch long gash into his head which was closed with the wonders of surgical glue. My one regret is not snapping a photo of him on the gurney in the emergency room. This was his first visit and he'd buttoned his mouth shut; his eyes were focused on not looking scared - but with the gauze and wrap around his head he looked like a wounded soldier.
At least he wasn't doing something totally stupid when he got injured. Speaking of embarrassing moments do you have a tale you'd like to share about bio-breaks? Paper Trails could win you something nice.

Be Safe This Holiday

2010-11-24T12:41:00.000-06:00

One of my favorite activities when I have some down time is to read blogs. This one got me thinking about Holiday Safety. I often wonder what I would do if a fire happened to make certain my brood was safe. I hate to think about it. I don't think some of the cats would leave - out of fear. I pray they would but what could I do to make sure they did?

Vacationing without the babies

2010-11-23T15:33:00.000-06:00

I hate leaving the babies behind when I vacation. There's always a dilemma that occurs when I know I'm going to be leaving them for awhile. At least the dogs go home w/the sitter and the cats are ok for a couple of days w/o me being there. Then I believe they start missing me.
This time, I'm in Michigan visiting family. It's been nice and relaxing so far. I go home Friday - so it'll be bitter sweet. I look forward to seeing my furring family heading home while leaving my human family behind.

Where does my time go?

2010-11-12T22:26:00.000-06:00

Used to be ... much of it went to entering Internet contests but lately it's been baby-sitting renovators. I continue to way the "value" I'm getting for my money especially when I'm paying pretty near premium prices, in ca$h. This weekend I've been trying to dig myself out of the disarray from the previous renovations while preparing for the next set. If the schnoodle wasn't blind, I'd probably endure the disarray a little while longer but it's like a $&*%(^ land mind for him.
Compound that with my account at work having a catastrophic failure of their infrastructure. I love how - despite this hasn't failed EVER on this magnitude before. And as it turns out it was because massive tracing was enabled
I digress. So, I'm decompressing by entering internet contests and I would love to win this Lady-and-the-blog GIveaway
And I'm mad at Pal. I enjoyed 2 days of being able to pet him but now we're back to his games. At least this week, he's been sitting on the sectional (far away from ) me.

The Mystery of Pal

2010-10-24T00:00:00.000-05:00

I finally "captured" Pal or rather he flew the white flag. It happened the morning of October 20th (otherwise known as the 4th celebration of my divorce). Zane had to take a potty break at 5 am so I decided to meow for Pal. Sure enough, he saunters out from the neighbor's shrubs (meowing incessantly). He comes over to the house and eventually I have him eating wet food a mere 2' from the front door when the newspaper delivery person drives by and scares him. I decide to meow for him again and hear him at the next door neighbor's house. I head over there and he lets me pet his tail. After a couple of times he stops and lets me actually scratch his entire body and ears! He's never let me do this and he's been mine for over 6 years now. He then plops down on his side and lets me pet him some more. I decide to scoop him up and run for the front door. He latch onto my neck but not with all his might. And that my folks was his rescue.
He let me pet him later on that day and again on Thursday but starting Friday, I'm back to non-persona grate. That makes him a cat I suppose. An ungrateful one at that.

Resorting to a trap

2010-10-17T22:23:00.000-05:00

Pal is still AWOL and I'm a tad bit concerned that the longer he's outside the harder it will be to recapture him. I've set a trap and saw him checking it out but not going in!
I need to call it a night. I have an early flight tomorrow - at least this time it's a day trip and it's NOT for business. The only problem is the sitter hasn't confirmed.
I so wish I had this new Vera Wang by Serta Mattress so I wouldn't have to count sheep tonight

Just one more to recapture

2010-10-16T10:41:00.000-05:00

I know where Pal is hanging: DIRECTLY ACROSS THE STREET! He hides in their landscape and will come out for food but won't come home. I think I'm going to have to set a trap.
The real shocker this morning was letting Zane out for his first bio break of the wee morning hours and having Georgeanne saunter on up to me. I didn't even know she was missing. I'm trying now to think back to when I last saw her. I am sure she was here when I got home last Weds. - so when did she get out and how?! This is frightening.
On another note - when I was in Boston, I saw these lovely Glee T's - bought one for my niece. She text me yesterday saying she loves it. We bond over Glee. It's a show I wish had been on when I was a teen. I like how you can be an odd bird or a popular cheerleader and still not "fit in" because you're a Gleek as well. I'd love to win this Glee DVD

Three Cats MIA

2010-10-09T21:51:00.000-05:00

The tile is done - and now three cats are AWOL. I don't know how you can get workers to understand DON'T LEAVE any doors open. Don't open the lower windows - Franklin will push the screen out. I wasn't here this week when they lost TWO MORE. This after I posted signs at all doors, in Spanish, to keep them closed.
I'm trying to console myself that hopefully Bob found Pal; they're such buddies but Adrian - he's so timid. He won't survive.
To make matters worse, I've come down ill. The doc says it's viral + allergies but I don't usually get the sneezing type of allergies. Oh joy.
What I need is a vacation - I've always wanted to go to Italy so wouldn't this be a great win: 2011 Italy Vacation

Renovation nation

2010-09-29T12:11:00.000-05:00

This week I finally bit the bullet and commenced on the BIG renovations that needed to occur here - to make this house pet friendly. I had a lot of ceramic tile in here to begin with but unfortunately, not in the front formal living and dining. Since this house is "open concept" and the tile isn't manufactured anymore - I played mental gymnastics trying to decide what I should do. I didn't want it to look like an after thought; or weird (which is how I thought wood and tile together would look). I concluded it all had to come up. Then I debated about what to put back down. I loved the travertine I had in the other house - but felt I didn't get my $$ back - but I don't plan on selling this house so full speed ahead.
It's been every bit as disruptive as I knew it would be. Today is the floating phase. The dogs and 1 cat are huddled up with me in the back corner of the house. Tomorrow they'll actually start putting the place back together.
Unfortunately, Pal got out during the tile removal process. I haven't seen him since breakfast Monday. My heart is breaking because since he was a former wild-cat, I think he's taking full advantage of the open spaces behind the home. I fear I won't ever see him again. That leaves me with 13 cats. All who love the 9Lives wet food and cat treats. We'd love to win this from My Cat Lulu

Looking Forward to "Vacation"

2010-09-26T19:32:00.000-05:00

Thankfully, because I've endured 25+ years with my employer I get ample vacation - the one benefit they haven't reneged on. I'm focusing on the last couple weeks of December to take the cats in; I'm not convinced I'll take them to the same vet I'm using for the dogs because I need discounts; major discounts.
In the midst of all of this I've embarked on updating this home. It was in the rental market for 8 years and I've slowly been chipping away at it. Now that I'm not traveling as frequently as I once was, all the half done projects are grating on my nerves. I'm just hoping by weeks end this latest effort will be worth it. I'm having a significant amount of ceramic tile chipped out and along with a couple of areas that previously were carpeted - all resurfaced with travertine. It makes dealing with my pet population easier. Plus since cabinets (kitchen/bath) aren't far behind my goal is to have this place non-embarrassing by 2011.
Once the house is fresh, I'll definitely need to win this http://leslielovesveggies.net/2010/09/oreck-halo-uv-c-vacuum-cleaner-giveaway-599-95-msrp

What would I do without pets

2010-09-21T10:18:00.000-05:00

I work from home and when the day starts out bad, like it did today, it's nice to have pets around to keep me calm. Last night, I tried upgrading my work email software. Towards the very end, it failed and claimed it had not upgraded my client. I decided to call it a night since it was 11 PM.
I get up this morning and you guessed it - my email client would not launch. Great, I've got an 8:30 tele-con that I'm hosting and the agenda is in my work client. I'm scrambling - I recall what's on the agenda but a portion of it I really need access to some databases. Think Dana, Think. I suddenly remember a means to view some of the data via the web so I bring that up. I start to calm down.
Then I click on my phone to dial into my conference line and open that for the callers. You guessed it, no dial tone. Thanks Time Warner. I don't have time to totally reboot the VoIP modem and I've got crappy cell coverage so I grab my laptop and cell phone and try heading outside to higher ground and grab a couple of bars in time to open up the line for the meeting and I'm now flying by the seat of my pants.
I *think* I covered up the fact that I was totally running the meeting ad lib. Not the way I like to operate. With that behind me, I download the new client install (not the upgrade) and start saving off important data I'll have to restore once I install.
Let's recap - I am running my "To Do" off of my blackberry calendar; access to certain data elements via a VPN and browser and trying to get my laptop operational simultaneous to all of this.
I need a cuddle and a purr

Three Weeks Tomorrow

2010-07-27T17:00:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it's already been 3 weeks since the accident. Just yesterday, I finally got a replacement vehicle (a 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid) but I'm still recovering from the crash. My shoulders are still tense/tight - the Lorazepam makes me tired but helps with the "twitches" I have driving. My wrists have started to hurt - if I do anything approaching strenuous. I have trouble falling asleep even w/the aid of drugs but once I'm asleep I really don't want to get up and let poor Zane out for his frequent bio breaks.
Between me and Zane poor Fritz's life has changed. I know he doesn't get that Zane is now blind and I'm certain the shorter walks are frustrating him. I need to do something special with him.

Sianara Sport

2010-07-08T17:24:00.000-05:00

I had it all planned: drop Zane off at the vet for day long glucose testing then drive upstate, meet with the lawyers, go to the closing on the sale of my house and head back down to pick Zane back up. Then life interrupted: Sianara Sport
You have to wonder if the universe was "helping" to rid me of another marital hold-over: the truck. Still I'd planned on keeping her a couple more years. I need it to haul pets around and to the vet. I'm just THANKFUL I didn't bring Fritz with me. I always bring both dogs. Even if it's just one of them going to the vet. Usually Fritz would be hanging out the driver's side window while Zane would be belted into the passenger seat. I think this wreck would've killed Fritz and seriously hurt Zane. Thankfully it was on the way back from dropping Zane off for the day. If I hadn't forgotten my goodie bag (hard boiled eggs for breakfast, bottled water and soda) I would never have been at that spot at that time. Fate.
Now that I'm going to have to replace the truck, I need to offset costs elsewhere like winning a CSN gift certificate. I love that store. They carry practically everything.

Bishop Airport

2010-07-05T10:00:00.000-05:00

I feel as if I spend too much of my life waiting around at airports. Thanks to free wifi and the internet I'm able to while my time away entering contests. Who wouldn't want to parlay idle time into a $100 gift certificate to
McCormick & Schmick’s? I know they're conveniently located by my Austin home and they've got patio seating! One of these days, I hope to have a guy pal to join me dining.

To Travel or Not to Travel

2010-07-04T21:44:00.000-05:00

I really hate my job when - I scramble around changing my plans because I have to travel - only to have them cancel the travel on me at the last moment. On this particular occasion, I decided to convert a business trip into a 4th of July side trip home to see the family. The day after I arrived (and while I was supposed to already have been on vacation) I email the folks requesting this trip for the logistics for my Monday arrival. I do this MIDDAY because I haven't heard anything since our conference calls .... oh that trip? Ahh, never mind. Oh that would be easy if I hadn't already STARTED the trip. Arrgghh.
It's going to work out ok because they were stuck for a non-refundable trip anyways but, it's the thought that counts. You tied up my "utilization" (billable to customer time) making me booked - so I can' t book other customer engagements and now I'm hosed. Thank-you idiots of the world.
So I suppose I'll be home this upcoming week and have time to make some Gazpacho with the Pomi tomatoes I plan on winning from Leslie Loves Veggies. This also means I should be able to get Zane into the vet for his glucose testing.

What a Wild Couple of Months

2010-06-30T12:59:00.000-05:00

I am so looking/hoping my life will settle down. As this year began, I was looking to either sell my home to the tenant or have her sign another year's lease. Months went by and as events unfolded it became clear she either couldn't afford it or decided *something* and wasn't going to sign a lease either. She was just delaying matters until she thought I'd passed the notification period to terminate the lease (from extending month-to-month). Shortly there after I discovered she'd repainted the entire interior of the house including CEILINGS, the mantle and the built-in wall unit. I drove up to see my home and discovered many other things including the fact that this "professional", Licensed Realtor with a Master's Degree from UNT was REMOVING THE KEY from the lock box to prevent the house from being shown.
Somewhere around this time I learned the A/C in my own home needed repairs. Rather than throw good money at a 14 year old unit, I opted to replace it. My wild travel schedule increased with me traveling 75% the month of May and June. The few times I was home my poor schnoodle was sick. First with a stomach infection, then a urinary tract infection and it was also discovered he was suffering from diabetes.
If that wasn't enough, I squeezed in trimming the trees out front of my home because my neighbor (with the ZERO-scape yard) informed me the branches were rubbing on his house and scaring his son at night. I managed to get a friend to help me and discovered my biggest tree had carpenter ants.
While all this great news was going on, I got an offer on my North Texas home. I'm sure the buyer thinks he paid too much and I know he paid too little. I'm losing $$ on the deal but after my tenant I just couldn't take long distance landlordship (and worthless property managers) anymore. The deal was supposed to be as-is but they smartly put a clause in the contract whereby they'd be able to walk away from the deal for up to 10 days for any reason and owe me a whopping $100. Despite over $1k in A/C repairs in '09 another one of the 3 units decided to cost me another $650. Sure I could've refused to make repairs but then they'd walk. I also had to do a unnecessary structural report. I'm just hoping the deal will be done - as next week is the closing date.
Until then, I've got a little bit of down time here in the Admiral's Lounge in Kansas City. This was my final trip here for Sprint. I'm going through my emails and entering a few contests. I know I could use this Eureka Pet Vacuum because I'm constantly picking up black balls of fur.

SOLD!!!

2010-06-10T20:41:00.000-05:00

The final contract is still in the Internet cloud somewhere but I am so glad to finally be done with the marital home. No I didn't get what I feel the house is worth but after the tenants completely customizing the home to their liking without authorization, I'm just glad to be on my way to being done with it.
Now I can focus on ME. I stopped @ Whole Foods today and picked up some products I've seen on Ellen. Then I headed on over to one of my favorite blogs Leslie loves veggies and discovered another wonderful contest. I also learned that there are LOW CARB options from Veggie Patch!!!! One thing that I feel is tough as a vegetarian is keeping the carb count down so this is good news.
Oh and Zane has fully recovered even though he's still taking medication. He was an absolute bossy boy on the 2 walks today.

Squirrel

2010-06-08T15:05:00.000-05:00

Zane is definitely feeling better. His first squirrel chase in days just occurred.
My assignment with the cellular phone account is ending this month and already I've got two engagements on the horizon already and they're encouraging me to book them back-to-back (to save on air fare). We'll see. I just want to sell my stupid house and find another job where I don't have to travel this much. Until then, momma needs $$ towards books to read on the plane. Thankfully, Our Ordinary Life is giving away two $100 Barnes and Noble gift cards! That would keep me set for awhile.

Slightly Snappier Schnoodle

2010-06-08T14:34:00.000-05:00

He's feeling better today. He's keeping food down and took a decent walk. He's even had some spark to bark at the squirrels.
For me, I was happy to finally receive an offer to purchase my other home. However, it isn't looking too promising. Apparently this person wants a huge bargain. As much as I want to be over that part of my life, I won't give the place away.
To make myself feel better - contests. Won a $10 Home Depot card so that was nice. What would be nicer though is a $50 Target gift card (my favorite store) and Cottonelle T.P from A Mom's Impression

Nothing Sadder than a Sick Schnoodle

2010-06-07T20:15:00.000-05:00

Zane always gives 110% every day, except for when he's sick. I already suspected something was up because he was actually pretty good the entire time the new A/C system was being installed Saturday. He wasn't quite himself yesterday either. Then about 3 AM it started. I was fortunate to get him into the vet today but not until 4 PM. He's got some bad bacteria in the tummy; poor dude. He's snoozing now which is for the best.
It's always something - tenants, A/C, travel, LIFE. I suppose it's why I unwind by entering contests. I recently discover CSN Stores and better still Survey Junkey is running a contest to win $50 there! I ordered some CD storage cubes and I think they're also where I ordered the replacement A/C vent grille. Couldn't have been more timely - the A/C people installed it for me :)

Finally some down time with the herd

2010-06-06T12:01:00.000-05:00

May was a busy month. Too busy. What with 3 week-long back-to-back business trips; the A/C leaking down my guest bath wall; an A/C bid for a new system (which was installed yesterday); a drive up to and down from my rental home followed by a couple hour layover there Friday to check on it after the tenants left and another business trip this past week - I need some down time. This morning I took an hour to go have the Mustang inspected - that's after waiting there over an hour yesterday evening only to learn my insurance card had expired. Now I'm about to create the list of "To Do's " for the remainder of today and looking forward. It would be so nice if the other house actually sold, as is. I'm sending that wish out into the universe.
In the meantime, while the dogs are snoozing from this morning's walk and the cat's belly's are full with little dreams bouncing over their head. I'm nursing the muscle spasms in my right shoulder with an ice pack and entering contests - dreaming of winning this Cheese from Leslie Loves Veggies

Snore

2010-06-02T08:48:00.000-05:00

Back in Kansas. Back in a room all by myself. At least when I'm working out of the house I've got the "Crew" there with me. I've got this nasty kink in my right scapula. I'm tired and I just don't want to be here. Whine, moan, whine. I've got a couple of calls today and then I'm busting out of here - I'm going to force myself to go exercise.
In the interim, how do I entertain myself? The usual: Internet Contests. This is a big one The Fashionable Housewife is giving away an HP Tablet. Sweet.

I wanna win

2010-05-31T11:17:00.000-05:00

Worth Ave Group is giving away an iPod Touch, a Wii, a Kindle and TWO NETBOOKS along with a grand prize every six months of the total package: A Netbook, an iPod Touch, a Wii, and a Kindle. How great is that?

I'm Somebody Now

2010-05-30T18:47:00.000-05:00

I have a FOLLOWER and suddenly I feel like this scene from the movie "The Jerk":

Navin R. Johnson: The new phone book's here! The new phone book's here!
Harry Hartounian: Boy, I wish I could get that excited about nothing.
Navin R. Johnson: Nothing? Are you kidding? Page 73 - Johnson, Navin R.! I'm somebody now! Millions of people look at this book everyday! This is the kind of spontaneous publicity - your name in print - that makes people. I'm in print! Things are going to start happening to me now.

So What Do I Do To Unwind?

2010-05-30T18:28:00.000-05:00

I love the evenings. That's when cats tend to snuggle up around me and I relax by entering internet contests. I love winning and have won some great things. I guess it's the sign of an "old maid" with far too many cats/pets. That's part of the reality, the other part is I'm content. I'm sitting here on my sectional, nestled on a lot such that I'm at tree level. I can watch the birds at my feeder and see the squirrels jumping branch to branch to get to the morsels I have for them as well. Earlier today, I watched a couple of adolescent Blue Jays squawk for their Mom - unsure what they were supposed to be learning at that moment. It's times like these I just revel in having downsized back to this house.
That's when I stumbled onto this giveaway entitled Live Healthy Live Longer and on the heals of a Coffee (meetup.com) gathering that turned out to be all LADIES and quite enjoyable.

Just one Vacation Day Left

2010-05-30T18:17:00.000-05:00

What a month this has been. Three solid weeks of travel; an A/C unit leaking down my guest bath wall; a licensed Realtor tenant that completely disregarded the SIGNED lease on my home (thus terminating the lease this month - avoiding it extending month-to-month); squeezing in a haircut - a trip up to my leased home - an A/C installation bid - an allergy doc visit - a graduation celebration and the dogs groomed during my "vacation". Oh and that doesn't include having to wash my bedding because Trina decided to use it instead of the litter box a mere jump away. Nor does it include having cleaned all the litter boxes; AJ's bird cage; both bathrooms, a chiropractor visit; picking up my necklace from "Fast Fix"; having the front door measured for a storm door installation; speaking with the tiler (and thinking we'd hook up this weekend for a bid on the big renovation in the home to make life with all these pets easier). I know people think I've got "all this time" - maybe this post exposes why my home always appears as if I'm a lazy person.

I need some time off

2010-05-24T19:29:00.000-05:00

Three weeks of solid travel including weather and mechanical delays adds to all of that. Toss in a water leak in the house that is still being troubleshot, but is A/C related AND a front license plate that apparently fell off along the way to the airport and a rental property with tenant issues - I think that sums matters up.
Today should've been pretty productive. I managed to combine a trip up to the rental house into an allergy doctor appointment. I got new plates and THEN I pull into my driveway to find a HUGE Black Lab at my front door. A neutered male without a collar, huffing and puffing from the humidity. An adult but still juvenile in his manner and a guy that loves to chase cats that don't warm up to him. This meant my afternoon was a total waste. The good news is I had presence of mind to post my "find" on the neighborhood Yahoo group and someone was aware of Buddy and his numerous escapes. Still I had to entertain this massive boy for my afternoon.
I'm just now unwinding and that means I'm entering contests. Who wouldn't want to win a $50 Sears gift card from The Fashionable Housewife even if I'm not (a fashionable housewife). It could pay for some paint for the repair I've got to make in the guest bath from the A/C leak.

A Third Week in a Row on the Road

2010-05-18T09:31:00.000-05:00

And yet here I sit in an empty Sprint war room because they're all over in some other building getting trained on the software that's replacing my software. So in other words, there's really no reason for me to be here and away from my furry babies.
Wouldn't it be great if I had a super Internet radio to sit here and listen to? Wouldn't it be better if I could win a Vtech one from MommyMandy?

My Blog is a Diary

2010-05-06T10:20:00.000-05:00

Months now and no followers. Boo Hoo. I participate in all the blogs you see lining my sidebar but not one of them cares to know a thing about me. Boo Hoo.
Still I write and check out their blogs and right now I'd love to win a Target gift card and pick up some of these OrganizeHer products. I'm going to pick up the tabbed memo book because I think I can use that to track my progress in getting back into an exercise routine.

Will Animal Planet Select Me?

2010-05-06T10:17:00.000-05:00

This past weekend I was watching Animal Planet and they had an ad about appearing on the show. I went out and discovered they were looking for people with TOO MANY pets. I sent off my email; the producer responded; we spoke on the phone - and well I'll wait and see.
Part of me wonders why I'd want to advertise my "problem" but it's two fold. The producer indicated they'd want to talk to friends/relatives because everyone will have a different perspective. I think that's part of it. I know they worry about me and think I'm insane - so part of me wants to see if they have any insight I might have be overlooking. The other part of me wants people to understand why and how I got here. I have always said the # of pets I acquire is directly proportional to my mental health. At the time my population exploded, maybe my subconscious was picking up clues about my marriage. By the time the marriage was ending, I think I needed the pets more than they needed me. My ex accused me of having a "rescue complex" but if saving an animal made me feel better and they're better off as a result, it's not a bad issue to have.
Yes it costs a LOT. Yes it takes a lot of time. Yes it restricts me in many way. Yes they ruin things. Yes there are times I wish I hadn't acquired so many. Yes I have tried downsizing. Yet when I look at photos of Bob now a healthy weight and happy sidling up to Pal or Pal snoozing comfortably on my bed or sofa. When Marcello comes meowing loudly into the kitchen in search of some shrimp, or Adrian cries like a little girl because he wants wet food but is hiding underneath the dining room chair in fear - I know there are very few people in this world that would want any of them. You can't pet them. Pal is Feline Lukemia positive; many vets would have euthanized him.What did any of these souls do to deserve their (previous) lot in life? So they're mine and they will be until their final days. And when the final day comes, I know it they will take a piece of my heart with them.

Mama Needs a New Bed

2010-04-30T16:47:00.000-05:00

While I love my King sized bed I don't love thinking about the fact that it's a hold over from the marriage. I used to have just a Queen sized bed but as I acquired more and more animals, I needed a bigger bed. Now I've got the bigger bed but I want a virgin mattress - who can blame me? Naturally I entered the contest at Mom Start blog for a Select Comfort bed. Mama's feeling lucky.

Pet Crazy Lady Could Use a House Cleaner

2010-04-27T13:13:00.000-05:00

I work out-of-the house when I'm not traveling so people think I have all this time to clean. I am fortunate in that I'm not tied up a lot when I'm working from the home - pets take time. Yes, folks I've heard and thought about DOWN SIZING but their personalities change when they're placed away from the home they know and love. I tried with my former step-son and then with my ex and when my girls came back to me from my ex, they were seriously traumatized. I've made the commitment and I'll honor it. Even those I can't pet.

So I'll take the first hour of my day to feed and scoop then take the dogs for a walk. I'll do extra loads of laundry to wash the "tarps" that cover my furniture. I'll spend my $$ on Front Line and Pro Plan and prescription Hills. If I can win a $50 Gift Certificate to Merry Maids I'd certainly put it to good use.

Vegetarianism

2010-04-27T08:55:00.000-05:00

I probably mentioned this before but I became a vegetarian about 15 years ago after seeing how hens were housed for human egg supply. Now that I travel frequently for business, I tend to choose hotels with their own kitchen. Sometimes that means just a microwave, so I'm always looking for new vegetarian/vegan options. Low and behold there's an Indian line of foods I missed and Leslie Loves Veggies is not only blogging about it but has a giveaway too. I hasten to tell anyone about this 'cause I want to win :)

Alms for the Poor

2010-04-26T13:43:00.000-05:00

I enter on-line contests A LOT. I guess it's my little niche of the "social networking" world. Often I try and win items that will help offset the cost of caring for all my pets. Sometimes it's simply gift cards that I can use for pet items. I wish I was a 501c and could hold a Share Our Strength Great American Bake Sale fund raiser Sponsored byC & H Sugar. Maybe some day, I'll form my own charity benefiting animals.

Corporate Insanity

2010-04-26T12:47:00.000-05:00

How insane is it for a large unnamed cellphone company to completely replace their main public facing website - moving off of software that has been humming along like a finally tooled machine? How much more insane is it to push forward when the new website rolls out like a fart in church? How about the company whose out going software make me stay on-site an extra day a week (remember I'm a technical support specialist) for a website that no longer exists? Can you say "politics"?
What irritates me even more is this is another day away from my pets, for naught. God I need an audible - what career should I be focusing on for the 2nd half of my life? How can I incorporate pets into this?

How about a 2nd Blog Win

2010-04-06T10:02:00.000-05:00

Blommi is giving away a $25 Carrabba's gift card. I'd love to win this and celebrate my LAST trip to Kansas; I've got just 5 more trips (at the most). Of course this weekend will be very very telling

Congratulations, you won a $500 gift card from ShopAtHome and Deal Seeking Mom!

2010-04-06T10:00:00.000-05:00

WOW! My first blog win and it was a big one

Back in Kansas

2010-04-06T09:59:00.000-05:00

I really hated leaving everyone early yesterday morning. First Thomas crawled up on my chest and purred away; then Rudy joined in. It was so comforting I just wanted to lay there and skip the flight.

Parent's Want to Visit

2010-04-04T13:56:00.000-05:00

And I'd like them to visit too - I just don't have a spare bed at the moment. This could be solved by winning this contest at Mom Start

25th IBM Anniversary Recognition Dinner

2010-04-04T13:55:00.000-05:00

Had a wonderful time at my recognition dinner. Sitting there it was neat to realize that I had people there from a cross section of my life at IBM. It also didn't hurt that the sushi at Uchi is absolutely to die for!

Wonderful Weekend

2010-03-29T11:15:00.000-05:00

I got a reprieve on having to work this weekend and it couldn't have been a more LOVELY weekend weather-wise. It's continuing all through this week. The boys have enjoyed extra walks and a even a car ride. I've been getting caught up on my yard work since I've got to head back to Kansas a week from today. Wouldn't it be wonderful if I won a gift card to the California Pizza Kitchen? There's one over by the mall by Sprint! Go Graham Go is giving one away you just have to tell her what's your favorite California Pizza Kitchen menu item is. Mine is the Grilled Vegetable Focaccia Sandwich. What's yours?

Cranes, Cranes Everywhere

2010-03-13T14:44:00.000-06:00

I have never seen so many Sandhill Cranes! The weather was decent enough but they were on the far side of the river (from the blind). Still to see so many birds and watch them take flight - was amazing. I'll be headed back for the evening tour this evening. After a good night's sleep, I'll head back to Omaha and fly home - probably with a bunch of SXSW hungry folks.

I'm so exicted

2010-03-12T17:26:00.000-06:00

Tomorrow I get to view the Sandhill Cranes here in Kearney, NE and I can't wait - even if the weather isn't the best. This Pet Cray Lady loves animals of all kinds. She only wishes she had this little gem "Small Wonder" EZ209HD pocket digital video camera from oneboredmommy. Maybe I'll just have to come back again once I win

Fruit fruit and more fruit

2010-03-10T14:40:00.000-06:00

How I wish I had some of this fruit in front of me right now - I'm craving some fruit but I'm stuck in a conference room at work.
I'm still feeling yucky and just want to go back to the hotel and lie prostrate on the bed but I've got no furry babies to comfort me. I hope I feel better tomorrow because I'm not flying home I'm actually continuing onto Nebraska to view the Sandhill crane migration.

On days like this

2010-03-10T12:26:00.000-06:00

where I'm feeling my allergies acting up; giving me the "bridge of the nose" congestion, I just want to be home with the babies.

Divalicious

2010-02-26T10:05:00.000-06:00

That's my nickname for Georgeanne. She's the tiniest cat I've ever had but big on personality. She's very independent which makes it all the more special when she wants her love. Ever diva is different. This diva is starting to see deep wrinkles. There's preventative measures I take like using Origins products even better is winning them from The Fashionable Housewife. I think I'll also revisit the dermatologist for a little pick-me-up as well.

Choosing to be a Vegetarian

2010-02-17T12:37:00.000-06:00

It's been 15 years now and I'm glad there are more options out there for food, especially now that my job requires so much travel. During those cold Kansas winter days, I love to have soup. She Scribes reviewed Progresso soups and is giving away a chance to win a taste. Becoming a vegetarian made me much more conscious of ingredients in product. You'd be amazed how many vegetable soups aren't vegetarian!
I've probably said it before here, but then again, no one is following so I can say it again - I became a vegetarian because of my love of animals. Obviously this was before I transformed my home into a zoo.

Boys will be Boys

2010-02-17T12:29:00.001-06:00

I never had children. I had step-children; teenagers at that. It was odd to inherit a family and automatically become a step-mom and then become an instant non-mom as the result of a divorce. It was that marriage that brought about the pet over population that I now have. Throughout my adulthood I've always had pets (just not double digits and I could always count them on less than one hand) and they have enriched my life. However, the two schnauzers often make me feel like a mother of perpetual 3 year olds. Thankfully they're napping right now but they'll be "pestering" me soon for another walk. We already took a mile long walk this morning but that's hours ago. They enjoy it so and it gets me out of the house. They're my best friends. No offense Thomas (one of my orange Tabbies) - he's tucked under my right arm. I love my cats too. They bring joy in different ways.

How is it...

2010-02-15T10:24:00.000-06:00

That the dogs can look so deep asleep one minute then be at the back door wanting to capture a squirrel? Speaking of squirrels, not that I need another pet, but I'm such a sucker for a sad story and the 3 footed one at my squirrel feeder has captured my heart. Try explaining this to Zane who feels all squirrels are worthy of being chased. Now that I've got my new "outdoor pet", this Target gift card from One bored mommy could buy a bunch of squirrel food.

Snuggly Schnauzers

2010-02-15T10:16:00.000-06:00

The boys got groomed yesterday and are looking (and smelling) as cute as ever. They had their morning walk and are snoozing now. Zane is on one of the doggie pillows that I purchased at Targe while Fritz is next to me. He's wearing one of his doggie jackets from Target. Target and I are on a first name basis which is why I could really use this gift card from One bored mommy. I'm bored too right now listening in on a team call today.

What do vegetarian' eat?

2010-02-13T19:21:00.000-06:00

I'm still surprised I get this question given all the options there are these days but one of my favorite product line is LightLife and Leslie Love Veggies is offering you a chance to win a taste

My Cat Lulu

2010-02-13T10:30:00.000-06:00

Is giving away a $50 gift card and my cats (Bandit, Catrina, Franklin, Trixie, Dante, Rudy, Marco, Adrian, Luciano, Marcello, Georgeanne, Pal, Bob and Thomas) would love to receive Lulu's generous offer. They promise to use it for kitty supplies.

Survived DFW's Record Snowfall

2010-02-13T10:20:00.000-06:00

Oh it was so much fun too. My 38 minute flight to Austin was supposed to depart at 4:40 PM but because of de-icing issues we didn't board until 6:30 PM. After removing the drunk guy from 29D we eventually pushed back and got in the de-icing line and wait and wait and wait. Finally it's our turn and the pilot announces that we're going to have to return to the gate because we don't have enough FUEL. To make a long story short, we didn't actually get in the air until after 1 AM.

Arrgghhhh

2010-02-11T09:57:00.000-06:00

American already placed an automated call letting me know my flight from Dallas to Austin is canceled. They said they're were "working to rebook me" but that was HOURS ago. Lovely. I guess that will give me more chances to enter contests like this one hosted be RaveandReview where I can win a new germ killing vacuum which is something a women with a house full of pets can use.

Since Pets Can't Send Me a Valentine's Gift

2010-02-10T11:04:00.000-06:00

I'd love to win this basket from Deal Seeking Mom.While I won't be lonely, technically I will be alone, again, for this holiday. Boo Hoo

Momma needs a new photo printer

2010-02-10T09:33:00.000-06:00

I love to print out photos of my pets and this printer would be just the ticket from Rockinmama this would also free me from having to matriculate to my home office to print. This means we can stay snuggled up on the sofa.

Need To Win Giftcards!

2010-02-08T15:52:00.002-06:00

Did I mention that when Thomas had his teeth cleaning/extraction and the dogs got their annual exam/shots plus heartworm medicine that the bill was over $1200? So I have to live frugally to support my pets. That's why I want to win thie $50 Safeway Giftcard from Super Coupon Girl

Hate Those Early Mornings

2010-02-08T13:38:00.000-06:00

Had to get up at 4:30 this morning to catch my 7:20 flight. I guess the only thing that makes it a bit easier is the dogs are snoozing so I feel less guilty when I leave. I hate being away from all the pets and feel bad that they're alone (except for the thrice-a-day pet sitter visits). Guess we'll have to do something special for Valentine's Day since it'll just be "us". The dogs will probably get groomed on Friday or Saturday so that we can cuddle. Maybe I'll even win this from myfrugalicious

Sony Pocket Reader

2010-02-07T19:27:00.000-06:00

As I've mentioned before, I have to travel every other week and I've been dropping some heavy coin at Half Price Books. Wouldn't it be grand if I had this instead? I'm trying to win one from Book Room Review

Product Reviews

2010-02-07T19:26:00.000-06:00

I think I'm going to start giving reviews on stuff my cats like (and don't like). Hey with 14 cats, I think I'm a good product test ground. Sometimes I'm surprised at what they take to and what they dis'.

What win could a Pet Crazy Lady use?

2010-02-04T16:32:00.002-06:00

A vacuum!! Especially one with a HEPA filter
http://twitter.com/schnoodleDo/status/8650599655

Another No or Minimal Walk Day

2010-02-04T11:32:00.000-06:00

http://www.easportsactive.com/ has neat exercise products and you can win one from http://www.jollymom.com on days like this with all the rain I feel as fidgety as the cats and dogs. Wouldn't it be great to just run through a exercise routine in the comfort of your own home?

Yesterday we were able to slip in a couple of walks between the heavy rain. It might be lightening up enough for a quick jaunt. Fritz is giving me his famous "evil eye" right now trying to convince me. It's funny, he'll make a U-turn if I try to encourage him to go outside for a potty break but not even hesitate if the leashes are involved.

If you Blog and No One Follows

2010-02-04T11:23:00.003-06:00

Does it become a diary?

ToothlessThomas

2010-02-01T20:26:00.000-06:00

Poor Thomas. Thomas joined the clowder almost two years ago when a neighbor contacted me with a concern. Their dog scared a large orange Tabby up a tree in their backyard. No one knew who the cat belonged to but after 3 rainy, windy and cold nights they were concerned. So, like the Pet Crazy Lady I am, I hired an arborist to rescue the cat. Thankfully, "Thomas" as I came to name him (get it - Tom Cat) wasn't feral - he took the ride down the tree quite regally looking upon us as his rightful minions. Despite posting flyers, no one claimed this rather lovely cat. Thomas settled in nicely, but I digress.
Thomas' teeth were borderline when I adopted him so I chose to let it ride. Then I relocated my fourteen cats to Austin last year. It was finally time for Thomas to face a dental cleaning. POOR GUY - he had to have 2 teeth extracted. He was down for the count for a couple of days. While he could use a few days, sans food, I was surprised he wasn't interested in wet food. Come day three he was scarfing up the wet food.
As I write this, Trixie is snoozing on my left leg, with Fritz (the dog - they're best friends). Franklin has settled down on my right side and it's moments like this that make all the expenses, all the nasty comments, all the trouble and cleaning and tossing of ruined belongings - worth while. Many of my pets were abandoned or abused. When they seek me out, when they cuddle and fall asleep on or next to me my soul is at peace.

More chances to win

2010-01-28T09:53:00.002-06:00

A Sam's Gift card on Consumer Queen

Remember the day

2010-01-28T09:45:00.000-06:00

before everyone was using the internet.... I remember those days. I know that dates me but as I start my 25th year with IBM I recall the days fondly. You see, just a few years ago I would've scored one of these free bags: Sams Club Freezer Bags but at least I now have a chance to win a gift card. And so do you if you go to 3 Kids and Us blog

Pet Crazy Lady is also Contest Crazy

2010-01-27T13:51:00.000-06:00

I just won my first twitter contest: a Sears Snowblower. I'd like to win my first blog contest too. You see, when you've got a ton of pets and spend a good part of the day tending to them, you need some down time. In my down time I enter internet contests. I've been quite fortunate - attended the Super Bowl in Tampa last year with tickets I won (used my air miles and hotel points too); won a flat screen TV, a year's worth of gas, etc. etc. Now I'd like to win this blog contest:Go Graham Go blog contest for a $25 Cracker Barrel gift card. I pass by Cracker Barrel every other Monday as I leave the Kansas City airport on my way to Sprint.

Wow I'm getting lonely

2010-01-27T13:46:00.000-06:00

Some bloggers offer contests to get you to follow their blog - but I'm finding they're not so keen on following back. Is that bad netitquette? It just would be nice if one of them would - I'm doggi less and kiittyless until tomorrow night. I have withdrawals. And here I blog to no one that will hear.

Missing My Boys

2010-01-26T11:35:00.001-06:00

The boys joined 25 other schnauzers on Sunday: http://www.meetup.com/austin-schnauzers/calendar/12220218/
Now I'm all alone, sitting in the Sprint World Headquarters 'war room' nursing an incredible sinus headache. Can't possibly be a result of the crappy front that's lurking about - destined to make my Thursday flights home a nightmare, now could it? It's time for the double whammy of Sudafed and diet coke.

Why I like Fridays

2010-01-22T08:27:00.000-06:00

I like Fridays because I know I'm going to be home. Even the weeks I have to fly to Kansas, I return home Thursday night. Plus come sometime in September I typically have enough vacation days left to take Fridays off for the remainder of the year.
The pets love it when their mother is home. Franklin is trying to crawl in my lap as I write this. Rudy just sauntered off. And momentarily the dogs are giving me a reprieve before I have to take them for their first walk of the day.

What do I do when I'm away from the pets?

2010-01-13T10:00:00.000-06:00

Every other week I have to fly to Kansas City for work .... that means I have to hire a sitter. We all go through separation anxiety but Thursday nights mark an incredible reunion. In the interim I enter on-line contests. OK I confess I'm always entering on-line contests. What else is there to do when you're the cray pet lady?

Here's one for you Body Shop Gift Card

Check Out My Album of Pets

2010-01-12T14:48:00.000-06:00

My Cats and Dogs and Bird

Why I need a New Mattress

2010-01-12T14:33:00.000-06:00

Several years ago, while I was still married, the queen sized mattress was getting too small for two adults, the dogs and whatever cats joined us for the evening. We went to a king and it was wonderful. Why keep the marital mattress? Necessity my dear readers, necessity.
While I'm single now, I still have the vast majority of the pets and it's a good thing I kept most of them because my "reliable" ex managed to loose cats right and left. The one(s) he had left he eventually returned to me because his "roommate" (latest girlfriend) was allergic. Unfortunately, my idiotic roommate at the time LOST her during my very next business trip.
So now I have NO roommates and a pet sitter that doesn't lose pets. That's right, the pet sitter prior to this kept losing my schnauzer, Fritz. I digress. I still have the marital mattress and that's annoying. It's probably going on 7 or 8 years old now too so it's time to replace it with another King because I typically have two dogs and anywhere from four to six cats sleeping with me. Back when I watched a lot of TV in my room, I once hit a record of 9 animals on the bed with me. Is this why I'm single?

Am I single Because.....

2010-01-12T14:20:00.001-06:00

I have too many pets? Or do I have too many pets because I'm single. Right now I have fourteen indoor cats (down from my personal record of 16), two miniature schnauzers (or is it a schnauzer and a schnoodle) and an ancient cockatiel. Creatures have a way of finding me and I'm a sucker for an animal that's homeless or about to become one.