Richardson Zoo

Happy Shrove Tuesday!!

2012-02-21T08:00:00.002-06:00

Happy Fat Tuesday, Shrove Tuesday, Mardi Gras everyone!! I absolutely LOVE Fat Tuesday!! I know that I'm weird, but it is the lead in to one of my favorite seasons of the year, Lent. Tonight at church, we are have a Shrove Tuesday Pancake supper with pancakes, sausage, gumbo, King Cake, and all of the Mardi Gras fixings! We always have such a good time!

The dogs are even going to have a good Fat Tuesday, when we get home. Casey bought them a pack of Red Hots to split! A coworker brought in a homemade King Cake, so I can't wait to taste it. What are you all doing for Fat Tuesday??

Swimming 100 Miles for the MS Association!

2012-02-15T14:43:00.000-06:00

As you all know, I love to swim and participate on my local United States Masters Team, the MTSU Blue Wave Raiders. I want to swim for all of those affected by MS and their families, but especially for one of my closest friends, Linda. Linda is in the advanced stages of MS, and uses a power chair for her mobility. I have watched her battle and struggle with this devastating disease, and I want to help find a cure for her.

Since 2012 is an Olympic year my goal is to swim 100 miles, before the start of the London games on Friday, July 27, 2012. Help me reach my goal and support the fight for MS! Please consider making a donation to my cause!!

http://support.msassociation.org/site/TR?type=fr_tribute_fund&fr_id=1050&pxfid=9090&post_id=13930&bpg=rlist&pg=fund

WKU Meet Wrap Up and Birthday Weekend!

2012-01-09T11:31:00.003-06:00

Saturday's meet was an absolute BLAST!! I still had a small case of the nerves, beforehand, but I managed quite well (thanks to Katie's good humor)! I am disappointed that the video camera had a SNAFU, so we didn't get any footage. I think I may have figured out the problem, and hopefully it's not broken. I'm proud to say that I swam faster than I ever have at this meet! I ended up taking 2 first place events (200 medley relay, I was backstroke leg, and 50 Breaststroke) and 2 second place events (50 Freestyle and 50 Backstroke). I am the most proud of my 50 Backstroke! I'm still dropping time! The entire team did REALLY well too! We all had a great time!

Another boost on Saturday was the local paper had an article on the team. They decided to take the pictures last week, and everyone is still on winter break. So, I was the lucky photo subject. The article and the pictures both turned out really nice, and I'm really proud of them. Here's the shot that was included in the article.

Here's the link to the article, written by my really good friend, Nancy DeJennaro.

Swim into shape | The Daily News Journal | dnj.com:

'via Blog this'

After the meet on the way home, Casey took me to Texas Roadhouse for a birthday dinner. Katie and her boyfriend Matt came with us. We had a REALLY good meal and a REALLY good time! I was so tired that after dinner we headed straight home, so I could promptly fall out!

Yesterday was AWESOME too! After a great church service and many well wishes, Mom took me out birthday shopping. That's the first time I've been birthday shopping in years!! She bought me a new sweater, top, and pair of GREAT birthday boots! Yes, I'm wearing them today, even though it's in the 50's here! Some things just don't change with age! HEHEHE!! In a few minutes, my new coworkers are taking me out for a birthday lunch! This birthday is just getting better and better! I can't wait to see what the next few minutes bring!

Happy New Year!!

2012-01-05T12:04:00.004-06:00

WOW!! I can't believe that I didn't post once throughout the Christmas season! It WAS really crazy. We had a death in the family the weekend before Christmas, so that week was just jam packed with relatives and visitors. It was great to see everyone, but I wish that it had been under different circumstances.

Now, let's see..the Christmas wrapup. We had a GREAT Christmas! Mine actually started the weekend before in Atlanta. Casey had bought me tickets to USA Swimming's Duel In the Pool. The entire Olympic Team was there competing against Team Europe! It was SO much fun! It was really nice to see them all in person. I managed to get Rebecca Soni's autograph and also Chloe Sutton's! Casey also bought me an event t-shirt to wear! I couldn't have asked for a better gift! Here's some shots that I made at the meet.

Team Europe(In Blue) and Team USA (Red)

Missy Franklin getting ready for her event.

The closest I could get to Ryan Lochte! HAHA!

As you can tell, I had a GREAT time!

The rest of Christmas was wonderful too! All spent with friends and family. Casey gifted me with a really pretty swimming themed bracelet, which I LOVE!

The dogs even had a big Christmas! They received a HUGE box and many more Christmas cards than me in the blog holiday exchange! They were so cute opening their presents. I'll post those in the next few days.

The next big thing on the agenda is this Saturday's swim meet at Western Kentucky University! This was by far one of my favorite meets last year. It didn't hurt that I took home my first swimming ribbons there too! I've registered for 3 events, the 50 Backstroke, the 50 Freestyle, and the 50 Breaststroke. All of my practice pools have been closed over the holidays, so it's definitely going to be a "wing it" meet. I'll post later on how it all goes!

Veteran's Day

2011-11-11T07:44:00.000-06:00

I just want to thank all of the men an women in the United States armed forces for protecting our freedom. Also, a special thank you to their families for thier sacrifices.

Dogs have served in the U.S. military during every modern war—World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War, in Bosnia, and in Afghanistan—as trackers, scouts, sentries, and messengers; as attack dogs, mine detection dogs, and rescue dogs. The dogs are credited with saving thousands of American lives and great acts of heroism.

Please don't forget to remember all of the 4 legged veterans of war. To read more about these very special veterans click HERE, HERE, and HERE.

Almost Wordless Wednesday: Bessie Edition

2011-10-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was my friend, Bessie's, 7th Birthday!! Happy Birthday Bessie!! Bessie says, BOO!!

Almost Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-05T08:21:00.000-05:00

My friend, Bessie says, BOO!!

Award Winning!

2011-09-29T09:11:00.001-05:00

Indy took 3rd place in the "Cutest Tail" category at Celebration Pet Day!! Check out his award winning photo!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-28T12:15:00.002-05:00

Wordless Wednesday!

2011-09-21T08:34:00.000-05:00

Jack's car ride!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-14T08:09:00.001-05:00

In Remembrance

2011-09-11T13:13:00.002-05:00

My friends, if there is to be peace, there must be forgivemness. And as we sometimes sing, "Let peace begin with me," so let us pray for forgiveness to befin with each of us and ask God's blessing on those we find difficult to forgive.

For the enemies of our nation...we pray;

Lord Hear Our Prayer

For those whose politics are different from ours...we pray,

Lord Hear Our Prayer

For those whose religion is different from ours...we pray,

Lord Hear Our Prayer

For other Christians with whom we disagree...we pray,

Lord Hear Our Prayer

For people with whom we work who make life difficult...we pray,

Lord Hear Our Prayer

For friends who have disappointed us...we pray,

Lord Hear Our Prayer

For family members who are making life a struggle...we pray,

Lord Hear Our Prayer

We remember those who have died...

Lord Hear Our Prayer

For those died with whom we did not have an opportunity to have a last word, final embrace. And today we especially remember all those who die as victims of war, terrorism or other acts of violence...we pray,

Lord Hear Our Prayer

Good and gracious God, hear us and help our prayers be sincere by conforming our hearts to what we know to be right, to what we know to be the call and command of your Son, Jesus, our Lord forever and ever. Amen.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-31T14:24:00.001-05:00

So Much to Update

2011-08-26T09:43:00.003-05:00

This has really been a wild past few weeks. Casey and I took a quick, weekend trip to Destin a week or so ago. We took the 3 puppies to the kennel, and Mom took care of the rest at home. There was a bad incident, while we were gone. One morning, Mom let Shiloh out to potty. She was right on the side of the street and the yard. A car came flying up the street and hit her on the side of the road!! They didn't even stop!! So, we had to let our sweet, sweet Shiloh cross the Rainbow Bridge. We loved and miss her very much!!

RIP Sweet Shiloh

Despite the bad news, as soon as we got to Destin, we tried to have a good time anyway. Here's some shots from the trip.

Public beaches at Destin.

Beach at Henderson State Park.

Casey napping on the beach.

Me attempting to go Boogie Boarding!

On Saturday night, we had dinner at McGuire's Irish Pub. It was absolutely delicious! We had the 18 cent Senate Bean soup and the Shepherd's pie. We also had their yummy, home brewed Raspberry Wheat beer. The entertainment was hysterical, and everyone was signing old, Irish drinking songs. I really can't wait to go back there!

http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
Enjoying the brew at McGuire's.

It was a very short vacation, and we were soon back home and back to work. The following Saturday, I had my annual Fenton Payne & Fred 5K race. All summer I've been swimming and doing circuit training, but I really haven't been doing any distance running. I ended up being faster than last year!! I really have improved my endurance the past year! This is always my very favorite 5K, and I had a great time! I again ran for Special Kids as a part of Team A.S.K. My child partner was Olivia, and she was such a sweetheart. Olivia suffers from a rare lung disease called NEHI.

Here's me and Olivia.

Race shots.

Just crossed the finish.

School starts tomorrow, and I'm back in school. So, I'm definitely going to have a busy fall with Celebration Pet Day, School, and swimming on the master's team again this year!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-24T09:24:00.001-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-15T08:05:00.002-05:00

It's Hard!

2011-06-10T15:29:00.003-05:00

I went to my dryland training for the 2nd time last night. I really liked last night's sets. We were in the weight room. We had 2 stations for ab work; one stop on the bench with the medicine ball, and one stop with the giant exercise ball. Then we did the lat pull down machine, the thigh press, the arm press, and the arm/fly press. We did 4 sets. In between each set, we went out to the track and ran laps. I really do like circuit training! I ended up running nearly a mile, just in class last night. Since we really concentrated on our upper body, I'm not nearly as sore today. It's amazing how swimming has strengthened my arms and shoulders! I'm looking forward to next week's sessions too!

I had spent the earlier part of the week concentrating on recovery swims, since I was SO incredibly sore from the first session. I spent the better part of the week in pain. So today, I finally got my first "real" swim in of the week. Here's what I did:
Warm Up: 200 Swim 100 IM Kick 200 Pull
Main Set: 100 Swim 100 IM 200 Swim 200 IM 150 Swim 3 x 100 IM 4 x 50 Kick FAST 4 x 25 Underwaters
Cool Down: 250 Total: 2100 Not a massively big workout, but it's definitely a start!

Worldless Wednesday

2011-06-08T08:19:00.001-05:00

Ouch!

2011-06-07T16:05:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I started an intensive summer dryland program. I seriously need more core strength. I wanna use the core strength for better, faster flipturns. Anyway, my local Rec Center has a "Boot Camp" class that is run by a personal trainer. It's a very small class and is held three times a week.

I got to class last night, not knowing quite what to expect. Last night's class was A LOT of circuit training. We'd got through a set targeted to a specific body part, then head out to the track for some running. Then back to the cardio room for more sets. It was a great all over body workout. We did a lot of squats and lunges off of the steps last night too. Both good for explosiveness off the wall! There was LOTS of core work too! If I sit for any period of time today, it takes me a while to get up and get going! I'm used to running and swimming, but this class was truly a challenge for me. I never thought I would use running to catch my breath!

I'm so sore today that today's lunchtime swim was a recovery workout. Swim, kick, pull for 3 sets, all done slow and easy. I'm going back tonight for another thousand, just to keep from getting so stiff. I have my online class tonight, so I'll be sitting in my work chair for a long time today. Probably around 13 hours, so I need that second swim!

I have another dryland class coming up on Thursday. I'm just praying to keep up and not die!!

USMS SwimFest 11

2011-06-03T22:16:00.002-05:00

I know, I know, it's been a really long time. Quick update: I'm still trying to learn a good butterfly stroke. I'm definitely getting faster. I survived Coach Katie's spring training, and now we're onto summer practices with Coach Erica. The outdoor pool is open for the season, and I'm one happy swimmer. I just REALLY enjoy swimming outside. Give me the sun anyday! I did have one bump in the way. I was sick for nearly 3 weeks in early May with pleurisy. Talk about wiping you out! I still haven't gotten all my endurance back, but I'm working on it. The puppies are all happy and healthy, and their blog is growing by leaps and bounds. They get more mail than Casey and I do!!

I had a GREAT opportunity come my way in May. The club paid for me to go to USMS SwimFest 11. It was held this year in Jonesboro, GA. Not a bad drive from home, at all. Anyway, this is the first USMS clinic that I've ever been to, and I was unsure of what to expect. Well, it was everything I had hoped and more.

The early morning was spent in classroom sessions. We had the "History of Swimming" with Coach Bobby Patten. Then we went to "There's a Drill for That", where we broke down stroke flaws and identified drills to correct the problem with Coach Cokie Lepenski. The next session was all about dryland work. It was held by a physical therapist named Alan Tyson. Dr. Tyson has worked with Cullen Jones and Mark Gangloff. He focuses on making you more flexible to achieve better form in the water, which in turn makes you faster, without needing more strength. Just the few little tweaks and tricks that he demonstrated made a huge difference. He is certifying folks in this method. For more info, go to www.axisswimming.com

About mid morning we started our pool portion of the day. First we went to video taping. We were allowed to tape 3 strokes (they all could be the same, if there was something we really wanted to work on). Upon exiting the pool, we sat down with one of the top coaches to have our strokes analyzed and forms filled out with suggestions. I really lucked up. I was analyzed by Cokie Lepenski. She holds the titles of Kerry O'Brien Coaching Award and the 2011 Pacific Masters Coach of the Year Award. I chose to do a freestyle stroke and two backstroke. This was the first time that I've been taped, and I was pleasantly suprised that they didn't have much for me to improve on either stroke. In fact, I received a fabulous compliment from Cokie. She told me that I have one of the prettiest backstrokes that she's ever seen. Talk about feeling over the moon for the rest of the day!! I just wish we could have gotten copies of our videos.

After the videotaping, we moved onto FINIS equipment testing. We got to test out some of their very best products. It was SOOO much fun! I love swim equipment! On the day's list was the: Tempo Trainer, Forearm Fulcrums, Foil Monofins, Z2 Gold Zoomers, Bolster Paddles, the Tech Toc, Alignment Kickboards, and my personal favorite the Swimp3 Player. I really enjoyed testing all the different equipment. It was interesting to see what worked for me and what didn't. My favorites were the Z2 Gold Zoomer, the Foil Monofin, the Tempo Trainer, and the Swimp3 Player. After the testing was over, we had the choice of buying any of the equipment for half price. I went home with my shiny Swimp3 Player for half price!! I've already gotten a lot of use out of it. I was also THRILLED, when I realized that we had a set of Forearm Fulcrums and a Tempo Trainer to take home in goodie bags! I'm planning on ordering the Zoomers soon too!

After the testing session, we broke for lunch. They had lunch catered in and it was yummy! The planners had kept us well plied with snacks and drinks all day long. There was even a session on Open Water and Distance Swimming, while we ate. I'm not into open water, but it was interesting to hear all the tips and tricks.

The afternoon session, we were back in the pool. It was the time for all swimmers and coaches for all strokes and drills. The coaches led us in each stroke and had drills for each part of the stroke. It was really interesting with that many swimmers in the water, but we got it done!

It was a great weekend, and I sure hope that I'm able to go next year! Here a some shots of the day!

Me during the drill portion of the day.

Coach katie (She's on the right with the auburn hair and glasses)and the rest of the coaches helping during the drill portion.

A side view of a portion of the coaches and swimmers. Me, Katie, and Erica were the last ones on the left.

Vow Renewal

2011-05-02T11:59:00.001-05:00

Casey and I did it!! We celebrated our 20th year together with a Vow Renewal Ceremony. When we got married, we just went to the courthouse. We never got to share with family and friends. So, we decided to celebrate our 20th year with an occassion to share with everyone! It was this past Saturday at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer. It was a wonderful day, spent with our closest family, friends, and church family. I can't thank everyone enough who made our day so special! We love you all!

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I've Been Up FOREVER!!

2011-04-29T09:57:00.002-05:00

I had my DVR set and ready to go, but I still got up at 3:00 a.m. this morning! Being a history major, I just couldn't miss the history, while it was happening! I had to watch the Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton! I just went gaga over the wedding dress and ceremony! Even Casey got up to watch!! That really shocked me! We did enjoy watching together. I managed to get to see the whole ceremony, up until they got in the carriage procession. I made it to work just in time to see them come out onto the balcony and kiss!

I had read their wedding program yesterday and was very curious about the ceremony. See, Casey and I are renewing our wedding vows tomorrow (Saturday, April 30th) to celebrate our 20th year together. There were several of the same songs and scriptures we had picked for our ceremony, that were in the Royal Wedding today. So, you can imagine that I am REALLY pumped about our ceremony tomorrow!

The puppies, bless their hearts, tried to stay up as long as they could, but by the end, this is what Indy ended up looking like!

I found this really cool web site about the Royal Dogs through the years. I've posted it in honor of the happy couple:

Royal Wedding Pets

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T19:28:00.001-05:00

Happy Easter! This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice in it and be glad. Psalm 118:24

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-20T07:34:00.001-05:00

Busy Week!!

2011-04-18T11:06:00.002-05:00

Last week was SUPER busy! My Godmother, Marie, visited from Oklahoma. It's the first time I've gotten to visit with her in 13 years! We had a great time visiting and catching up. Hopefully, we won't have to wait that long to visit again. Here's a couple of shots from the visit. Marie and My Mom. Marie and Me It was a very busy weekend also. I got a couple of good swim workouts in this past weekend. I had been slacking, since we had visitors. Also, yesterday started Holy Week at church. We had Palm Sunday services yesterday morning. Last night, we had the Seder Passover Meal. I've done this dinner for the past 2 years, and I really enjoy it. It really helps me to connect to the history of the Christian faith. After we ate the traditional Seder foods, we just had an old fashioned potluck dinner. It was SOOOO good. I ate way too much! I'll have to swim and run extra this week to make up for it! Here are some shots from last night's dinner. This week will be exciting too! I'll attend all of the Holy Week services including, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil on Saturday. I really enjoy all of these services. This is really one of my favorite times of the church year!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-13T07:39:00.001-05:00

Almost Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-06T08:52:00.001-05:00

A great shot of a super service dog that I saw at swim practice yesterday. He was a mighty big fella, and he wouldn't fit all the way into the changing stall!! What a good boy!!

Blue Wave Raider Swim Meet

2011-03-23T09:01:00.003-05:00

This past Saturday my Masters Swim Team, The Blue Wave Raiders, hosted our first home swim meet. We've worked steadily, since last October getting ready for it. It was sanctioned through our national organization, United States Masters Swimming. We had 60 participants, which is really good for a first meet. Luckily, all of our planning paid off. The meet went off without a hitch, and everyone had a great time! My swims that I've been training for went really well too! I took first place in the 200 Backstroke, 100 Backstroke, and the 50 Backstroke. Overall it was a wonderful meet, and we can't wait to do it again next year!!

Earth Hour 2011

2011-03-22T09:15:00.001-05:00

I am really proud that Nashville is again participating in Earth Hour this year. Casey and I have participated in Earth Hours, since 2008. To participate, you simply turn off your lights for an hour. Why don't you join us.

To learn more visit:

www.earthhour.org

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2011-03-17T08:39:00.001-05:00

Customize a free digital greeting

Oh, and from my sweet friend, Bessie, too!

Disaster Relief for Japan

2011-03-16T12:09:00.001-05:00

The disaster in Japan this past weekend is just horrible. I can't begin to imagine the loss and suffering of the people and animals there. I just did something to help. We sent a couple of simple text messages to send funds to help!

The American Humane Association has sent their Red Star Animal Emergency Services to help the animal victims of the Japanese disaster.

To make a donation to these services:

Text PROTECT to 85944 to donate $10 to support efforts to provide aid to animal victims of disaster.

(A one-time donation of $10 will be added to your mobile phone bill or deducted from your prepaid balance. Messaging & Data Rates May Apply. All charges are billed by and payable to your mobile service provider. Service is available on most carriers. Donations are collected for the benefit of the "American Humane Association" by the Mobile Giving Foundation and subject to the terms found at http://www.hmgf.org/t/. You can unsubscribe at any time by replying STOP to short code 85944; Reply HELP to 85944 for help.)

I also texted funds to help out all the humans who are affected by the disaster. We did this by texting the American Red Cross.

Here's what you need to do:

Text REDCROSS to 90999 to Give $10 Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami.

(Charges will appear on your wireless bill, or be deducted from your prepaid balance. All purchases must be authorized by account holder. Message & Data Rates May Apply. Text STOP to 90999 to STOP. Text HELP to 90999 for HELP. To see the full terms applicable to donations, please visit www.mgive.org/T. Receipts for donations are available at www.mgive.org/receipt.)

A Wonderful Poem!!

2011-03-16T11:23:00.003-05:00

A friend of mine posted this on her Facebook page. It was so moving, that I thought that I'd share it here. HERE IN THIS HOUSE

I will never know the loneliness I hear in the barks

of the other dogs 'out there'.

I can sleep soundly, assured that when I wake

my world will not have changed.

I will never know hunger, or the fear of not knowing if I'll eat.

I will not shiver in the cold, or grow weary from the heat.

I will feel the sun's warmth, and the rain's coolness,

and be allowed to smell all that can reach my nose.

My fur will shine, and never be dirty or matted.

Here in this house...

There will be an effort to communicate with me on my level.

I will be talked to and, even if I don't understand,

I can enjoy the warmth of the words.

I will be given a name so that I may

know who I am among many.

My name will be used in joy,

and I will love the sound of it!

I will never be a substitute for anything I am not.

I will never be used to improve peoples' images of themselves.

I will be loved because I am who I am,

not someone's idea of who I should be.

I will never suffer for someone's anger,

impatience, or stupidity.

I will be taught all the things I need

to know to be loved by all.

If I do not learn my lessons well,

they will look to

my teacher for blame.

Here in this house...

I can trust arms that hold, hands that touch...

knowing that, no matter what they do,

they do it for the good of me.

If I am ill, I will be doctored. If scared, I will be calmed.

If sad, I will be cheered.

No matter what I look like, I will be considered

beautiful and thought to be of value.

I will never be cast out because I am too old, too ill,

too unruly, or not cute enough.

My life is a responsibility, and not an afterthought.

Here in this house... I will belong. I am home. ~ author unknown

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-09T08:01:00.001-06:00

RIP Trixie

2011-02-25T08:38:00.001-06:00

It is with great sadness that I'm posting today. Trixie (the spare dog)has crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. We couldn't find her on Tuesday night, when it was time for her to come in. We looked all day Wednesday and yesterday. We found her underneath our house (a favorite hidey hole of hers). It appears that she just passed away in her sleep. Trixie was almost 17. We will all miss her terribily, but we know that she has some awesome company at the Rainbow Bridge. Goodbye sweet Trixie, we'll miss you!

Wordless Wednesday: Blast from the Past

2011-02-16T08:18:00.001-06:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-09T09:31:00.001-06:00

Curse You, Stomach Bug

2011-02-04T08:05:00.003-06:00

The past 48 hours certainly have been interesting at our house. On Tuesday, Casey started to feel really sick. By Wednesday morning, I think he was praying for death. Yes, he's caught that REALLY nasty stomach bug that's going around. I have to say, this is the sickest I've seen him in a really long time! He hasn't been able to keep anything down, since Wednesday morning. I stayed home with him yesterday, in case I needed to take him to have some fluids. I called the doc, and they prescribed him some anti-nausea meds. He finally started to calm down, late last night. Needless to say, neither of us have had very much sleep, and that makes me an extremely unattractive personality right now. I do think that we both rested better last night. Casey was fast asleep, when I left this morning, so I'm hoping that's a good sign. I sure hope he feel much better today. I'm also hoping that the bug stays away from me!! We'll see...

Pray for Korley

2011-02-02T07:47:00.001-06:00

Please add this sweet girl to your prayers. I know that all of us in our hometown are praying for her!

Another Snowy Forcast

2011-01-25T10:34:00.002-06:00

Looks like we are in for more of the white stuff late tonight and tomorrow morning! I tell you, this is REALLY eating into my vacation time, and I don't like it at all!! Anyway I don't know about you guys, but I'm officially tired of the snow now. It was fun the first few times, but it's really getting old now. I could never live much further north. I've done a lot of thinking about Florida the last couple of days! I'm just crossing my fingers that it won't be a lot!!

Too Funny!

2011-01-20T08:00:00.000-06:00

I remember how addicted I was to Sesame Street, when I was a kid. It seems like they kept the same episodes forever and ever. Now, it looks like they are on the cutting edge. Check out the Jim Parsons spot for the word arachnid! Hysterical!!

The Hatting!

2011-01-20T07:39:00.002-06:00

Some blog friends of mine, Sammy and Andy, hatted Indy, Molly, and Shingo. Take a look!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-19T08:34:00.002-06:00

Snowy Friday

2011-01-14T10:12:00.004-06:00

Well, it seems like we still have a ton of snow on the ground! I've been wearing all my shoes with traction all week. I sure do miss my Birks, but I just can't walk on the ice with them. Don't wanna break a leg, before the next swim meet! I feel kind of out of it today. I really am glad that it's Friday! This whole week has been surreal. It started with the fantastic birthday, snow, being out of work, classes starting, etc. It's gone from zero to full tilt in an instant! Work is slow today, thank goodness, so I have my headphones on listening to the Austin Grand Prix Swim Meet. Michael Phelps and Ryan Lochte are going head to head in this meet, so it will be an exciting one!

This week has also been full of frustration. Casey and I finally got our new t.v., after our old one died before Christmas. We finally bit the bullet and got a flat screen HD t.v. Everything has been perfect, but all this week, our cable box has been obstinate! It won't respond to the remote at all. We ordered and reprogrammed a new remote. No luck. So, we have a tech coming out tomorrow morning. For now, we've been changing the channel the old fashioned way: getting up and walking across the room to punch the buttons on the box itself. What did we DO, before remote controls? Truly the stone age!!

Several of my friends are taking me out for a late birthday lunch today. They are taking me to Jeff's homestyle restaurant. By far, one of the best meat and 3's around! I'm already dreaming of the fried chicken!! DROOL!! Swimming laps will be interesting after that meal!

The Snow: We Haz It!!!

2011-01-13T10:31:00.001-06:00

Well, we are still snowed under here. Unfortunately, they've gotten the roads plowed so, Casey and I have gone back to work. We still get to play, when we get home though. Here are some more snow shots!

Wordless Wednesday: Snow Edition

2011-01-12T09:28:00.000-06:00

Birthday and Swim Meet Weekend!

2011-01-11T18:49:00.003-06:00

Well, this past weekend was my 40th birthday. I'll be the first to tell you that if the whole year is as good as my weekend was, I'm ready to go!! Mom took me out to Ruby Tuesday's on Friday night for a really nice pre-birthday dinner. It was so good!

On Saturday morning, Casey and I were up early to head to Bowling Green, Kentucky for the Western Kentucky Green Gators swim meet. I entered 2 events, the 50 Backstroke and the 50 Freestyle. The team deck entered to do the 200 medley relay. So, I swam the backstroke leg for that relay. I was really happy with the whole meet. I improved my times in every event. I came home with a 1st place ribbon for the 50 Backstroke and a 2nd place ribbon for the 50 Freestyle.

On Sunday, I had a great time at church with all the birthday wishes. The whole congreation sang "Happy Birthday" to me! Mom and I stayed for our Daughters of the King meeting and then headed back home to a great birthday lunch that Casey had cooked. Mom suprised me with a very nice birthday cake! I spent the rest of the afternoon just lounging around, since I was really tired from the day before. Casey and I watched movies and waited for the snow to come in.

We woke up Monday morning with nearly 8 inches of snow on the ground here. Almost unheard of!!! I had already scheduled to be off on Monday, and Casey couldn't get to work, so we had a nice snow day together. The dogs were just too funny in all that snow! We nearly couldn't find Jack out there, the snow was so deep. After they all got used to the depth, the just loved romping around and playing in it.

Indy and Me

Moon, Jack, and Trixie

Indy and Trixie

Molly

Shingo

Shingo and Jack

Mom's Dog Moon

Me and Casey

I couldn't have asked for a better birthday weekend!!

New Year, New Post!

2011-01-05T20:04:00.002-06:00

Wow!! January 5th already, and this is my first post to the blog this year. Our Christmas festivities and New Year's kickoff were all just fabulous!! We tried a new, stress free holiday. It really worked. I enjoyed just enjoying the holidays. I took the week of Christmas off from work. That Monday my friend, LaKeithea had a Christmas dinner and movie watching party! It was so nice! I really enjoyed meeting all of her friends and eating, drinking and being merry with them! Christmas Eve, we had a beautiful Christmas Eve service at church! It was just so moving. There was no place else that I would have rather been. The mood was merry and the decorations were beautiful. Here are a few shots that I took of the evening.

The puppies also had a great holiday! They got two BIG boxes of goodies mailed to them, plus hundreds of Christmas cards, and new beds, nylabones, a new rope, big bag of treats, and a homemade cake! In other words, they made out like bandits! Here's a slide show of them enjoying their goodies!

So, that's the holiday wrap up at our place! Today, on the other hand, has been just plain weird. I didn't work today. Casey lost the keys to his uber fabulous '88 Thunderbird, so I turned the house upside down looking for them! Just too weird! We know that they are lost somewhere in this house, but hang if I can find them! I'll just keep looking!

Wordless Wednesday: Christmas Edition

2010-12-29T00:00:00.001-06:00

Merry Christmas!!

2010-12-24T23:01:00.001-06:00

I'd like to wish you all a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS from our family to yours!!

Furry Christmas/Holiday Furiends: Day 19

2010-12-24T00:00:00.000-06:00

Today's Christmas/Holiday Furiends are Samantha and Avalon. Samantha is a Golden Retriever and has the most beeyootiful golden furs!! She goes on lots of really fun outdoor adventures! Samantha recently got a new sister named Avalon. Avalon is also a Golden with lots of beeyootiful furs too! Samantha and Avalon live in California with their pawrents. Drop by their place and wish them "Merry Christmas"!

Furry Christmas Friends: Day 18

2010-12-23T09:25:00.000-06:00

Today's Furry Christmas/Holiday Friends are my buddies from Tales and Tails. Bunny, Blueberry, Lilac, and Morgan are such great friends! Bunny, Blueberry, and Lilac are all Greyhounds. Morgan is a pretty German Shepherd. Bunny does a lot of visits to the nursing home too! Recently, Blueberry, had some surgery to fight against the mean 'ol cancer man. My fingers are crossed for her. All of her friends got together and held an auction to help her with her surgery. Casey bought me some really cool Christmas gifts there too! If you don't know the bunch from Tales and Tails drop by, and tell them I sent you!

Furry Christmas Friends: Day 17

2010-12-21T15:11:00.001-06:00

Today's Christmas/Holiday Friends are Mayzie and Ranger. Mayzie is a beeyootiful brindle rescue!! She has come such a long way, since she went home with her pawrents! She is just the nicest furiend to everyone! She is a BIG advocate of animal rescue too! Mayzie lives with her pawrents and her brother Ranger, who is a rescued Rat Terrier from Ratbone Rescues!! If you don't know Mayzie and Ranger, stop by and say "hello"!

Furry Christmas Friends: Day 16

2010-12-19T20:09:00.001-06:00

Today's Christmas/Holiday Friend today is Lilly. Lilly is such a beautiful Scottie girl, and she lives with her pawrents and siblings on the Rocky Creek Scotties farm! Their Mom loves puppies and raises some of the cutest Scottie puppies around. Drop by and pay them a visit!

Furry Christmas Friend: Day 15

2010-12-17T07:47:00.000-06:00

Today's Christmas/Holiday Friends are Booker and Asa. Booker is a most delightful labrador, and Asa is his most beautiful sister. Some of Booker's favorite activities are chasing balls, bones, and playing bitey face. Booker and Asa live in South Carolina with their Mom. If you don't know them, I really think you should!! Go on over and say, "hello"!

Furry Christmas Friend: Day 14

2010-12-16T07:40:00.002-06:00

Today's Christmas/Holiday Furiend is Puddles!! What can I say about Puddles, except that she is Puddles...oh yeah...and a Dachshund!! She rules the dog blogosphere with a beer or a big 'ol pitcher of Kool-Aid!! You never can tell what shenanigans that girl is going to get into!!

Puddles lives with her siblings Albert and Whitney, and with her Mom in South Carolina. Here is Miss Puddles enjoying the serenity of the holiday!

Furry Christmas Friend: Day 13

2010-12-15T08:35:00.001-06:00

Today's Christmas/Holiday Friend is Ludo Lovegrove! Ludo is a very handsome Sheltie! He knows all kinds of really neato tricks too! Ludo lives with his Mom, two rabbit siblings, and his spaniel Auntie Penny. They all live in the UK. Ludo's Mom is very talented. She makes teen tiny pet sculptures for folks. She made this sculpture of Indiana for us.

Be sure to check out his Moms' crafting blog, Time Tamed.

Furry Christmas Friends: Day 12

2010-12-14T08:07:00.002-06:00

Today's Christmas/Holiday Furiend is Draco!! Draco is such a cutie patootie Chihuahua friend of mine. Draco is a furry social guy. He always gets to go to the best meet ups and parties!! Check out his blog for pictures of all the events! Draco lives in Denver, Colorado with his pawrents. Drop by and say "hello" to him!

Furry Christmas Friends: Day 11

2010-12-13T09:41:00.001-06:00

Today's Christmas/Holiday Friends are the OP Pack! Phantom, Thunder, and Ciara are such a beautiful bunch of Sibes aren't they? They are some very good furiends of ours. They have a really good bloggie too. They must have their typist (MOM) trained really well. If you haven't met them yet, please go on over and say "hello"! You'll be so glad that you did!

Furry Christmas Friends: Day 10

2010-12-11T15:36:00.000-06:00

Today's Christmas/Holiday Friend is Ronni. Ronni is Richie's sister. As you can see, Ronni just got a great big 'ol snow!! She's nearly buried up to her little booty in the snow!!! Hope you don't get too cold Ronni!! Merry Crimbo to you too!! Everyone head on over and say "hello"!

Furry Christmas Friends: Day 9

2010-12-10T08:24:00.000-06:00

Today's Christmas/Holiday Friend is Sarge. Sarge is relatively new in the blogging world. We were all first introduced to him over at Frankie's place. Isn't he handsome? We know that Zona, his best girl, certainly thinks so!! One of Sarge's biggest dreams is to be a police dog. He lives in the Allegheny National Forest in Pennsylvania.

Furry Christmas Friends: Day 8

2010-12-09T07:58:00.001-06:00

Today's Christmas/Holiday friends are Duncan and Reyna. Their Mom, has a lovely blog about raising them and 6 other brothers and sisters!! Duncan and Reyna live in North Carolina with their Mom, Janine. Aren't they beautimous?!!!

Furry Christmas Friends: Day 7

2010-12-08T07:48:00.001-06:00

Today's Christmas/Holiday Friends are Chewy and Lilibell. Chewy and Lilibell are some of the first friends we made here in dog blogville. They are two of the sweetest Chihuahuas that you'd ever want to meet. They lead a very exciting life in the big city of Providence, Rhode Island. Lilibell even has her own clothing line!! Chewy and Lilibell live with their Mom, Nadine.

Furry Christmas Friends: Day 6

2010-12-07T08:12:00.000-06:00

Today's Christmas/Holiday Friends are Those Elgin Pugs! Please meet IzZy, Josie, Trixie, and Anakin Man! These are four of the most hilarious, hysterical Pugs you will ever meet! They are always so cheerful and entertaining! If you've never met them, you simply MUST get over to their place and introduce yourself! You'll be so glad you did! Those Elgin Pugs live in Elgin, Illinois with their pawrents. BTW, their Mom writes books...about Pug dogs!!

Sunday Wrap Up

2010-12-05T22:36:00.002-06:00

I had a really nice day today. First, I went to church this morning. We are currently celebrating Advent, and today Father Pete had a suprise for me. I got to do the readings and light the two Advent candles. I really enjoyed it! The whole while, it was snowing outside! Then after lunch, we had a church Christmas lunch. Everything was decorated beautifully. Lunch was chicken mirabella, green beans, cranberry salad, and bread pudding. It was all so yummy.

After church, I came home and we all had post lunch coffee at Mom's. We were all watching Christmas movies. It was extra Christmas-y with the snow falling, the movies on, and the Christmas tree lights. After a while, Casey and I came back home and took a nap. It was a great afternoon to cuddle up with the puppies!

Tonight, Casey and I finally went to see the new Harry Potter movie! We had to wait for a while, because Casey has been working overtime for the last several weeks. We finally had a break, where we both weren't exhausted. It was WONDERFUL!! I can't wait for the next part!

We're back home now, and I'm once again all cuddled up with the puppies. I'm about to watch some more Christmas movies on Hallmark and call it a night!

Furry Christmas Friends: Day 5

2010-12-05T22:33:00.001-06:00

Today's Christmas/Holiday Friends are Shiloh and Shasta. They have a most wonderful blog called Team Beaglebratz. They have a whole lotta Beagl-y goodness over at their place. Shiloh and Shasta live in Topeka, Kansas! Drop by and give them a visit!

Furry Christmas Friends: Day 3

2010-12-03T08:30:00.003-06:00

Today's Christmas Friend is Wyatt. Wyatt is a beautiful Airedale Terrier. He and his pawrents run a gardening business! Wyatt lives with his pawrents and his sister Stanzie in Oregon.

Furry Christmas Friends: Day 2

2010-12-02T07:53:00.003-06:00

Today's Christmas Friend is Frankie Furter Price. Frankie is a long haired Dachshund. He lives in Pennsylvania with his pawrents. His Mom is CRAZY about snowmen, hence the sweater!

Furry Christmas Friends: Day 1

2010-12-01T07:43:00.001-06:00

It's that time of year again! Every day in December I like to feature all of my friends pets in their finest Christmas gear. If you would like to participate, e-mail your photos to fiestythree at gmail dot com. Please include in the subject line, "Christmas Friends". Today's Christmas friend is Bessie. Many of you already know Miss Bessie, because of her many appearances on my blog. Bessie is a Rat Terrier, and she lives in North Carolina with her pawrents, Karen and Bob. Oh, and she is a GREAT squirrel huntress! Check back tomorrow for our next Christmas Furiend!

This Is Pawsome!

2010-11-30T22:06:00.002-06:00

Thanksgiving Weekend and Being Productive

2010-11-28T19:06:00.003-06:00

I hope that everyone had a great Thanksgiving holiday. Unfortunately, it's back to thre grind tomorrow...well, until Christmas!! I had a terrific Thanksgiving this year. We all decided to have a big, Thanksgiving dinner at church this year. We had a big crowd too. It was so great to be there with my family and my church family. I just had the best time!! Here are some shots of the day.

The big dinner table, pre-dinner:

Mama

All of the yummy food!

A big group shot of the ladies.

The rest of the weekend has been really productive. On Friday, I didn't do any Black Friday shopping, but I did get the mantle all decorated. It's all dog themed again this year.

Yesterday Casey made breakfast, and we all had breakfast together over at Moms. We spent most of the morning just lounging. In the early afternoon, I got a great swim workout in. It was the first time I'd been back in the pool, since the meet in Louisville last week. I tried to get in a good bit of yardage. I felt great afterwards.

Today was the first day of Advent at church. It was also my Sunday to be the chalice bearer. I always enjoy doing that, and I especially enjoyed it, because of Advent. I always look forward to Advent and the lighting the candles on the Advent wreath.

After church and lunch, I managed to get all of the outside Christmas decorations up. It was a bit more difficult this year, since some neighbors are busy rebuilding the roof of my front porch. It took a while, but I managed to get it almost done. I still need to get some new ribbon and bows for the window wreaths. As soon as I get those up, I'll be done.

When I finished with the decorations, I headed out to the pool. I wanted to get another workout in today, since I'll be busy putting up Mom's Christmas tree tomorrow. I got in another good workout today. I also managed to get quite a few drills in, so at least I'll feel ready for practice this coming week.

All in all, I had a great break over Thanksgiving. Now, I'm just looking forward to Christmas vacation!

Wordless Wednesday: Thanksgiving Edition

2010-11-24T08:27:00.001-06:00

The Louisville Invitational

2010-11-23T08:42:00.004-06:00

Katie, Erica, and me at the Louisville Invitational. This past Sunday, the MTSU Masters Swim Club attended the Louisville Invitational Swim Meet in Louisville, KY. This was my first big, sanctioned swim meet through United States Masters Swimming. Four team members attended. It was such great fun! I entered the 100 meter Backstroke, the 50 meter Backstroke, and participated in the 200 meter Freestyle Relay.

I'm glad to say that it was a very low stress meet, and I didn't freak out at all. On the 100 Backstroke, I missed a turn and was disqualified. I was pretty disappointed about that, but that's one reason that I had decided to swim the 100. I figured that would give me enough time to get in the pool, calm down, and figure everything out, since it was my first event. Good thing I did. I was much better in the the 50 meter Backstroke. I actually came in 2nd in my age group. The relay was sooooo much fun. I was really apprehensive about doing it, since I'd only known we were entered a couple of days beforehand. I've never done relays, so I had no idea about relay starts. We ended up doing really well, and I swam a relatively fast 50 free for me. We were the only all female relay team. The other teams were mixed. We ended up taking first place in our age group!! WOOT!!

I'm glad that I've got one behind me now. I'm really looking forward to the next couple of meets!

My 50 meter backstroke. I'm in the far lane at the top.

Our 200 meter freestyle relay. The video will zoom in on us! I'm the second swimmer!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-11-17T07:58:00.001-06:00

Christmas Spirit!

2010-11-12T10:13:00.003-06:00

It's that time of year again! Time to start thinking about Christmas! I've been busy working on cards for me and Casey to send out this year. Shutterfly has some GREAT deals on their cards right now. They are offering 20% off and free shipping over $30.00! Here's a version of our card.

Peppermint Palms Christmas

Get custom photo Christmas cards online at Shutterfly.com.

View the entire collection of cards.

I can't wait to get them back and start mailing them out!!

Veterans Day

2010-11-11T00:00:00.001-06:00

I just want to thank all of the men an women in the United States armed forces for protecting my freedom. Also, a special thank you to their families for your sacrifices.

Dogs have served in the U.S. military during every modern war—World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War, in Bosnia, and in Afghanistan—as trackers, scouts, sentries, and messengers; as attack dogs, mine detection dogs, and rescue dogs. The dogs are credited with saving thousands of American lives and great acts of heroism.

Please don't forget to remember all of the 4 legged veterans of war. To read more about these very special veterans click HERE, HERE, and HERE.

Almost Wordless Wednesday

2010-11-10T07:49:00.001-06:00

Indianan, practicing for our Christmas card!!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-11-03T07:43:00.001-05:00

Spooktacular 5K Wrap Up

2010-11-02T07:53:00.005-05:00

Last Saturday's race was one of the best ever for me. The weather, even though it started chilly, was perfect race weather! I felt good before, during, and after the run. The finish line seemed to come up quickly, and I didn't feel winded at the end! I ended up with a personal best for the day, 36 minutes!! I was so proud! I feel that I'm definitely ready for the Boro Dash, which is a 4 mile race, on Thanksgiving Day! Here are some race day shots! Starting Line Finish Line Post Race Sillies!

Trick Or Treat!!

2010-10-31T14:46:00.000-05:00

Free greeting card personalized with Smilebox

Bessie says, "Boo!" too!!

United Way Spootackular Tomorrow!

2010-10-29T10:53:00.002-05:00

It's that time of year again! It's time for the 3rd Annual United Way Spooktacular! I've run this race every year, and I really enjoy it! This year I'm using it as a stepping stone to the Boro Dash, which is a 4 mile race. Slowly but surely, I'm upping my distance in races. Here are some finish line shots from the past 2 years:

Almost Wordless Wednesday!!

2010-10-27T07:32:00.001-05:00

Happy Howl-O-Ween from my friend Karen's Rat Terrier, Bessie!!

I've Got Work to Do!!!

2010-10-23T15:48:00.001-05:00

Well, this morning's swim practice went really well. I'm having less and less trouble with my back, which is encouraging. The workout sets went really well. Then, the ugly truth was seen. It was our first timing session of the season. We only timed today in what we plan to swim for the November meet. I've decided to swim the 100 back and the 50 back. I timed my 100 first. I actually swam my 50 split in the 100 faster!! My 100 time ended up being 1:51.3. Not too bad for never having competed back, but bad for qualifying for Nationals. For Nationals, I need at least a 1:14.03. I need to trim 37 secs off of my time! I did only start from the wall, though. When I do my real start, I'm sure some time will come off. I think, I can't remember exactly, my time for the 50 was :51.8. That was BAD, but it was at the end of practice and I was tired and a little anxious. We'll see how much time I can drop between this week and the first of the month. I'm going to be doing a lot of speed training between now and then. I just don't want to embarrass myself at the meet!!

Newscast Funnies!

2010-10-21T10:02:00.003-05:00

My friend, Cindy Sherrill, from Sharpei Rescue of Tennessee posted this video. It's hysterical! It's a news spot for local adoptables who are VERY FRIENDLY!!!! Enoy!

Dogs Attack Two Female Reporters - Watch more Funny Videos

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-20T07:48:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Justin Hayward!!!

2010-10-14T07:44:00.002-05:00

This is a repost from 2004, but still appropriate: Today is somewhat of a special, private holiday for me and many other Moody Blues fans. Today is lead vocalist and guitarist Justin Hayward's birthday. He's my VERY favorite celebrity. Such a talented songwriter and performer. My personal hero. Anyway, I'd just like to wish him a very happy day with hopefully many many more to come!

Acutally getting to meet my hero.

Almost Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-13T15:31:00.001-05:00

The puppies are enjoying snuggle weather!!

Indy's Agility Day

2010-10-12T08:20:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was agility day for me and Indiana. Unlike last week, which was cool, yesterday it was back to the good ol' summertime!! By the time we got there at 10 a.m. it was about 85 degrees. Indy worked really good for me and Mary Jo for about 40 minutes. New things he did yesterday were: the tunnel, teeter totter, table, and the A-frame. I talked with Casey, and he said since Indy was so good at it, that we are going to attempt to build me some agility equipment at home. Even our nice neighbor down the street said that we could use her fenced backyard to practice!!

After that good 40 minutes, Indy was done. It was just too hot outside. Poor thing, he kept going to Mary Jo's back door and trying to get inside. We decided to call it a day. On the way home, we stopped at Sonic for a cool slushie! It was a fun, exciting, hot day. It must have really tired him out. He made his nest on the couch and napped for the rest of the day!!

Pet Blessing Video

2010-10-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

For those of you who have asked. Here is the Pet Blessing video. The blessing took place at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Shelbyville, TN

Guess Who Got A Haircut??

2010-10-07T07:39:00.001-05:00

Trixie

Wordless Wednesday!!

2010-10-06T07:37:00.001-05:00

Busy Weekend!

2010-10-05T08:10:00.003-05:00

We had a busy weekend around the house. On Saturday morning, I had swim practice. I got really bad leg cramps and managed to pull my calf muscles. So, I spent all weekend hobbling around. As a matter of fact, it's still bothering me today! I hope it feels much better by this afternoon. I'm debating, whether I should actually attempt our practice this afternoon. It's totally weird, because I've never had this happen after leg cramps before. Sunday afternoon was the Pet Blessing at our church. Casey and I took Molly and Indiana this year. Shingo and Jack have both been blessed in years past, and so has Fergie. About an hour before the Blessing, I took Indy out on a nice, long walk. It was slow, since my legs were really killing me, but it was enough to do the trick. Indy was very well behaved at the Blessing. In fact, he just sat through most of it. He loved meeting our members and their dogs too. Here's some shots of the event. I have video of it that I will post, as soon as I get it edited together. My friend, Mary Jo, had invited me and Indy out for an agility demonstration yesterday morning. So, off we went. It turns out that Indy is a real natural, when it comes to agility. By the end of the session, he was going over multiple jumps at a time, over the A frame, and he even went through the tunnel once. So, we are beginning our agility lessons next Monday. Indy was so very good and did everything we asked of him. He really had a good time. He was just so conked out all afternoon. He had too much excitement over the weekend!

Sunday Pet Blessing

2010-10-01T10:52:00.001-05:00

If you are anywhere near Shelbyville, TN this Sunday:

PLEASE JOIN US AS WE CELELBRATE THE PET BLESSING ON ST. FRANCIS DAY EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE REDEEMER SUNDAY AFTERNOON 4:00 PM OCTOBER 3, 2010

We hope you will join us on our "barking lot" and bring your pet(s) to be blessed on this festive day. Each pet will receive a blessing and their very own St. Francis Pet ID Tag and Personalized Commemorative Certificate as free gifts from your neighborhood church. Help us celebrate this wonderful tradition.

St. Francis is an historical figure; the son of a wealthy man, who gave up untold riches to serve the poor and be a voice for those who were less fortunate. St. Francis is the saint known as a lover of creation and animals.

As we are in town near traffic, we ask that you keep your dog on a leash and your cat or other small animal in a carrier for their own safety.

Here's some shots of the past years' Pet Blessings.

Wordless Wednesday!!

2010-09-29T07:30:00.000-05:00

Dog Show Wrap Up

2010-09-28T08:28:00.004-05:00

Saturday was the 6th Annual Celebration Pet Day Dog Show. Since I didn't have to organize the event this year, I got to go enjoy the festivities. Since I did take Jack last year, I decided to take Indiana this year. He's old enough now, to behave in crowds. I was a little worried about the car ride, but he surprised me and did just fine! He LOVED meeting all the other dogs and people there. I call him, "Mr. Social". Everyone just loved him. One of his favorite new friends was a Great Dane. It was so funny to watch them together. He also made friends with a goat, who constantly head butted him, but in a friendly way!! They were so hysterical together!!

That afternoon, I entered him into the Rescued Dogs class. It was a special class for all the dogs that had been rescued as strays or from shelters. I was so pleased, when he came in 2nd place!! I had his picture made with his ribbon. As soon as I get copies, I'll post it up here.

Here are some videos that I made of the day. We had such a good time!!

Saturday Dog Show!

2010-09-24T08:39:00.001-05:00

Looking for something fun for the whole family this weekend? Well, look no further!! Come on out and join us for the 6th Annual Pet Celebration Dog Show!! Registration starts at 9:30 a.m., and the show starts at 11:00 a.m. All proceeds benefit the Shelbyville-Bedford County Humane Association. Check out the list of events:

Hope to see you there!!

We're Sticking Our Tongues Out!!

2010-09-23T08:19:00.004-05:00

In honor of National Dog Week, we are pawticipating in Twinkie's Pet Photo Contest. This is such a fun contest, we couldn't resist. So here we go in all our tongue-glory!!! Indy and Shingo really sticking their tongues out!! Here's dainty Miss Molly looking not-so-dainty!! Fergie even wants to pawticipate!! Thanks Twinkie for having such a pawsome contest!!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-22T07:55:00.001-05:00

Wordless Wednesday!!

2010-09-15T08:07:00.000-05:00

Everything Swim BUT the Swimming!!

2010-09-10T11:45:00.000-05:00

These first two weeks of the semester on campus have been INSANE!! The Sports Club schedule for Masters Swim Club has had me on the run. Last week, there were info tables at the Rec Center all week. This week on Tuesday, we had the Organization Fair, and on Wednesday, the Sports Club Fair. I had a long day yesterday, because I hung out at the Rec Center after work for a meeting with the Swim Club advisor, and I also helped EXCEL Swim set up the All American Swim Supply booth. I've been so busy with Swim Club activities, that I haven't actually had the time TO SWIM!!

Here are a few pictures of the week for me:

Swimnetwork - How a Swimmer Views the World

2010-09-09T12:36:00.001-05:00

This is hysterical!! I just had to share it with everyone!!

Swimnetwork - How a Swimmer Views the World - Mike Gustafson, Senior Analyst Commentary Blog Article