tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-280468122024-03-07T01:16:27.813-05:00It's a Pug's LifeMarnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.comBlogger944125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-89279750439635154342014-02-25T06:46:00.002-05:002014-02-25T06:47:57.184-05:00I'm baaaack (again)<p>Hey. How YOU doin? </p>
<p>It's been a long time, huh?</p>
<p>I apologize. I completely forgot my password until this morning and then, POOF, there it was in the front of my brain. I was shocked, happy, and a little embarrassed. I decided just to post something... anything... I've missed this. A LOT.</p>
<p>Soooo... how are ya? How's your mom-n-em? What cha been up to? Me? Work, kids, The Walking Dead.. yadda yadda yadda. The same ol' same ol'. </p>
<p>Not happy with Blogger at the moment. I'm at work typing this up and it won't let me do it in "compose" mode... doing this in HTML. I am SOOO not good at it. Please excuse any and all spacing issues. I think once I get back into this, I'll be doing it from home so the Web Po-Po won't be watching me.</p>
<p>I'm hoping to have some good stories and fodder for you soon. Bug continues to crack me up, and Jarrett (aka J-man) is about to graduate from High School. GULP. When did that happen? They are both a challenge,but I do love them so.</p><p>On that note... later taters!</p>Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-75347949724261367412013-07-25T14:12:00.002-04:002013-07-26T11:23:15.663-04:00Be still my heart...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyMiqbBOWuCmomymdp0W8EJJX0xXidNAsJjLZnDPne9McaYLsUanlDqDrIYrb9vFd5jONPdQQW5yLfIFf6sagWmwVjElTLfsGlpu_JyaDORMaQtuj8YjH2tY3aTP15PErD3Cs8Nw/s1600/twdcool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img bba="true" border="0" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyMiqbBOWuCmomymdp0W8EJJX0xXidNAsJjLZnDPne9McaYLsUanlDqDrIYrb9vFd5jONPdQQW5yLfIFf6sagWmwVjElTLfsGlpu_JyaDORMaQtuj8YjH2tY3aTP15PErD3Cs8Nw/s640/twdcool.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This is some of the cast of The Walking Dead. I LOVE random, silly pictures of these people. They always seem to be having the best time. I know most by real name, but I will give you characters and how I feel about them.<br />
<br />
<strong>Michonne</strong> (in the veeeery back with red wig) - biggest female badazz on the show. She was introduced in Season 3 and I squealed when I saw her. In the comics she is a force to be reckoned with. They haven't quite got to that point yet with her, but I can see it coming. She carries a Katana and uses the walkers for pets. Soooo cool.<br />
<br />
<strong>The Governor</strong> (shooting a bird with Mickey Mouse glove) - his character is cray-cray, but I love him. He and Rick Grimes hate one another and it was the battle between the Governor's Woodbury and Rick's Prison that was the focus of Season 3. He and Michonne hate, hate, hate one another, but I guess you would hate Michonne, too, if she killed off your creepy-azz zombie daughter.<br />
<br />
<strong>Tyreese</strong> (Thundercat) - he is a newbie to the show, but in the comic book he is larger than life. Cannot WAIT to see what they do with him next season.<br />
<br />
<strong>Glenn</strong> (with the bow/arrow) - dawwww... love him so much! He is engaged to <strong>Maggie</strong> (the one with the space bowl on her head). They are a great couple and so sweet together. Their story will be pivotal next season. Glenn is becoming a leader and I fear he will leave the safety of the prison... we shall see!<br />
<br />
<strong>Darryl Dixon</strong> (bear hat and axe) - LOVE him. He is, by far, my favorite character on the show. Every girl loves the bad boy. If I were ever in a zombie apocolypse... this redneck is who I want to be with... oh yeah.<br />
<br />
<strong>Herschel</strong> (with the beard and the arrow thru his head) - Maggie's dad... veterinarian... lost a leg. He is the moral compass of the group. I'm afraid his time is coming to an end this season and, gawd, if it happens I will miss him. Brilliant actor.<br />
<br />
<strong>Greg Nicotero</strong> (sunglasses in front) - Executive Producer, Director, Special Effects Guru... he is brilliant and makes this show what it is. <br />
<br />
<strong>Rick Grimes </strong>(silly hat and sword) - The MAIN character of the show - and one sexy beast. I wish you could see more of him here. GAH. He plays a Sheriff's deputy that was shot prior to the ZA. He wakes up in the hospital to a crazy world. He was going through a mental breakdown in Season 3, but seems to have gotten out of it with his run-in with the Governor. Next season may see his group splinter... I know what happens in the comic... curious to see if they take the same course. I just hope he reigns in his psychopathic kid before it is too late.<br />
<br />
I wish more of the cast were in this picture, but my faves are here... Darryl... Tyreese... Michonne... The Guvnah... <br />
<br />
Come on October 13th! (And yes... this picture is now my screensaver)Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-6828169600905437842013-07-12T07:24:00.004-04:002013-07-12T07:24:36.182-04:00Fiction and ResearchI am reading Dan Brown's latest novel, Inferno, and am totally engrossed in the story. If you have never read one of his books - The Davinci Code, Angels and Demons, or The Lost Symbol - I highly recommend them. He takes real world places and writes mysteries around them. Yes... I know they are fiction, but do you know what I REALLY love about them? They make me curious.<br />
I spend A LOT of time on Wikipedia, Google, etc. looking up the people, places and things he writes about. I become fascinated with the real people from history and do a lot of reaseach on them. I learn so much and enjoy it. I was never a history buff in high school, but as I've gotten older I find myself wanting to know more and more. <br />
What I love about the research is I keep branching off into other topics. I started research Dante (the focus on Inferno) and had NO idea he loved a woman named Beatrice since the age of 9 and was denied the ability to marry her. SOOO, I researched Beatrice. Which had a painting of her... which led to the research of the artist... and on and on and on.<br />
Now I am researching St. Marks Cathedral in Venice. Beautiful and so full of wonder.<br />
Off to read some more and see what is next.Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-47618038237283649442013-06-28T06:53:00.000-04:002013-06-28T07:06:31.659-04:00Howdeeee!Tons and tons of stuff going on at Pug Manor. I apologize - AGAIN - for not posting that often but work, kids, school (their's not mine), travel... it piles up and I just don't post. I read all of my blogs every day, but cannot find time to write anything.<br />
<br />
With that said, here are just some random thoughts going thru my head...<br />
<ul>
<li>My baby girl, Bug, is going to be 15 in two weeks. GAH! When did THAT happen?</li>
<li>And J-man? In a month he will be 18. EIGHTEEN! A man! </li>
<li>With that being said... 18 is an adult. I won't call him J-man... I don't think I need to make him anonymous any longer. His name is Jarrett and I am his proud mama.</li>
<li>Jarrett has signed up for the Future Soldiers program... that means when he graduates at the end of this coming year (fingers crossed) he is going in the Army.</li>
<li>Am I scared for him? HELL YES. </li>
<li>Is it what HE wants to do? Hell yes.</li>
<li>Because of that I will proudly sport an Army Mom sticker on the bumper of my car.</li>
<li>This time next year I will need therapy.</li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgavXmm_8c4419KZw6zHlgZL4nffrpYb8XagPx8LNQZqK18TOD1zXSMUE02phCeOFFZJ4YZoW-NC3Ga-vaNLAaTBhDEkFnuPSMXXR-wpiX1XwT8nO-AqAmDkmFiYCvIbb2qp4q-Vg/s464/walkersnuggle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgavXmm_8c4419KZw6zHlgZL4nffrpYb8XagPx8LNQZqK18TOD1zXSMUE02phCeOFFZJ4YZoW-NC3Ga-vaNLAaTBhDEkFnuPSMXXR-wpiX1XwT8nO-AqAmDkmFiYCvIbb2qp4q-Vg/s320/walkersnuggle.jpg" width="320" xya="true" /></a>Bug is getting her learner's license in a couple of weeks...</li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">That therapy may need to start earlier.</li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I'm going to Indianapolis this weekend for work. What the heck is there to do in Indy beside visit the racetrack?</li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I still love my job. My team and the folks we train are the most awesome folks around. I wouldn't trade it for the world.</li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I actually applied for a position that would have been a promotion. It was for the same group I work for, but I would be writing sales training. BLECH. I decided I love my team so much I withdrew my application.</li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Best decision</li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Considering where I was this time two years ago... I am so happy.</li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Our little town has had it rough the past few weeks... murders, drive-by shootings, stabbings, robberies... I just want Carl to be safe. Folks are cray-cray out there.</li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I miss The Walking Dead.... BAD</li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Dozer is getting so old... I worry about him. We think he is almost deaf and blind. My sweet boy.</li>
<li style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Walker, on the other hand, is the sweetest, funniest, most loving pupper. He loves his snuggles and will catch a ball as long as you will throw it.</li>
</ul>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
That's all I've got for now. Miss you all. </div>
Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-53075115297878049232013-04-26T12:36:00.001-04:002013-04-26T12:39:04.515-04:00Credible SourcesI called Carl this afternoon to let him know that George Jones had passed away.<br />
<br />
C: Awww man. Where did you hear that?<br />
M: From TMZ<br />
C: Well, I don't know how credible they are. <br />
M: I trust them. I don't think they would report someone's death without checking and double-checking their sources. Harvey Levin is an attorney, ya know.<br />
C: Maybe.<br />
<br />
So we hang up and a couple of minutes later my phone rings.<br />
<br />
C: Hey. Yep it's true. He passed away.<br />
M: I know... but where did you get YOUR information from?<br />
C: Blake Shelton and Luke Bryant's Twitter feed.<br />
<br />
*Face palm*Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-32127876157406718082013-01-23T07:30:00.000-05:002013-01-23T07:31:00.956-05:00Heading backI am heading back to Chicago in a couple of weeks. I totally dropped the ball on posting about my last trip (hey, Starr!) and need to do that. Starr was an awesome host the night we met for dinner... the rest of the time I spent in/around the hotel.<br />
<br />
This time will be much of the same, but I don't plan on venturing far from the hotel ONLY because of the weather. Me... in Chicago... in February. Hooo boy. I checked the high today and it is going to be 23 with flurries. Ermehgerd. I'm a Southern Girl... the 40's are too much for me. So single digits??? I'm gonna freeze.<br />
<br />
I fly up on Super Bowl Sunday. Fine. I know where a bar is located (Ditka's - imagine that) and if I feel adventurous that is where I will be watching the game. If it is too cold, I'm sure my hotel will be showing the game.<br />
<br />
I fly back on my birthday. Joy. Just what I want to be doing. BUT I made the flight early enough that I will be home by lunch so my family can shower me with hugs, kisses and love. HAHAHAHAHA!<br />
<br />
I guess I need to go back to the store and grab some thermals to wear under everything. Wish me luck! And send some sunshine or warmth to the mid-west.<br />
<br />
Lurv y'all!Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-83632464146191970022012-12-31T09:31:00.001-05:002012-12-31T09:31:46.207-05:00Happy Almost 2013Today is the last day of 2012 and I am ready to see what 2013 has to bring. This year was pretty crazy with travel for my job, J-man getting his license, a new puppy in the house, and a tons of other stuff. Next year may be chock full of more travel, J-man will turn 18 and Bug will get her learners. Oy... not ready for that.<br />
<br />
Tonight I plan on watching the ball drop in New York - or maybe the Peach from my town. I'll reflect on all that has happened and feel pretty happy with the year. Tomorrow I will make a crockpot full of chili... and yes I know that means the greens and black-eyed peas tradition will be missed... while relaxing with Carl and the kids. Then Wednesday I hit the ground running for work... it is gonna be craaazy.<br />
<br />
Buh-ring it.<br />
<br />
Happy New Year to anyone that may still read this blog. I miss you guys!Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-49059056126869653892012-11-22T20:58:00.001-05:002012-11-22T20:58:24.386-05:00DId I Do Something Wrong?I went to Walmart yesterday to pick up some last minute items. As I was leaving, I saw a young, skinny girl talking to a lady in the middle of the parking aisle. I heard the lady say "I'm sorry, honey, I only do debit cards" so I knew this girl was asking for money.<br />
<br />
I was putting my items in my trunk as she walked up to me. She was soft spoken and actually walked past me a couple of steps before, hesitatingly, turned around. She asked, "Excuse me ma'am, but do you have a dollar or two I could use to get something to eat?" <br />
<br />
Remember, I work in downtown. I am used to dealing with, and ignoring, panhandlers. But she struck me as different. She LOOKED hungry. She looked tired and needy.<br />
<br />
I had just bought myself a turkey sandwich from Subway, so I said "I don't have any cash on me (which I didn't), but would you like my sandwich?" In ATL, if you offer a panhandler your food - even when they tell you they want the money for food - they will more than likely say no. She didn't. She said "Anything will help". It broke my heart! I gave her the sandwich and she took off.<br />
<br />
As I was leaving the parking lot a few seconds later, I saw her standing at the end of the strip mall. She wasn't eating the sandwhich, but she was still holding it. She looked like she was waiting on someone, too. I didn't know what happened, but felt pretty good about what I had done. <br />
<br />
Then I called Carl to tell him what I had done.<br />
<br />
Turns out, this girl is married, but he beats her. She turns tricks to get hotel rooms for the two of them. Carl has arrested her for panhandling before. They are now living under a bridge.<br />
<br />
Carl is two sides of the coin. <br />
<ol>
<li>He says she probably WAS hungry so I did a good thing there. BUT,</li>
<li>She is known around town for that behavior. She is always asking people for money or turning tricks to get what she needs.</li>
</ol>
He deals with this couple all the time. As a matter of fact he was telling me about her the other day, but I didn't know it was her. <br />
<br />
Today I went and had lunch at the PD with Carl and the other officers that were working. They started calling me "The Sandwich Lady" and teasing me about falling for her scheme. <br />
<br />
It kind of hurts my feelings. I was trying to do the right thing. I don't think I did anything wrong. AND I'm not a hard-assed cop either. She was so skinny and soft spoken. My heart said to give her the sandwich... was that so wrong?<br />
<br />
I may have been scammed somehow. I don't know if she ate the sandwich or was just taking me for a fool. It doesn't matter. I did what I thought was right. Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-1262611083852463572012-10-30T07:18:00.000-04:002012-10-30T07:18:18.854-04:00Random BulletsHi, y'all!<br />
<br />
Just because I have a lot going around in my head, I decided to do some random bullets. Ready?<br />
<ul>
<li>I am loving Walking Dead so far... (you knew that would be first right?) The tension in the show is escalating and the acting is so dang good.</li>
<li>I have another fave show... Sons of Anarchy. I caught the first three seasons on Netflix then started watching season five when it started last month. I knew I was behind, but it is a pretty simple show to catch up on. BUT NOW, Netflix released season 4!! I've already watched the first four eps... and Saturday will be a SAMCRO catch up day.</li>
<li>I get to travel to Chicago next week for work. I have to "audit" a course that my team put together and that means some travel in the coming months. My whole team is traveling somewhere - LA, Miami, Seattle, Houston, Dallas, San Fran, and Chicago. We only have four folks on our team so some of our clients will be auditing as well... Next year there is a chance to travel to other locations so stay tuned for those.</li>
<li>When I get to Chicago, I get to have a blogger meet-up! I will be meeting Starr of Chicago Foodie Girl (on my list)... she also used to be called Come Back Nikki. I can't wait to meet her in person!</li>
<li>If you have been to Chicago, I am open for recommendations on where to eat and visit.</li>
<li>I'm nervous about going by myself, but am also looking forward to some "me" time.</li>
<li>The kids are doing great! They are both in marching band so we have been running between practices, football games, and competitions.</li>
<li>J-man is driving so I don't have to wait on them to get back from said activities, but I DO wait up for them to get home. Makes for some laaaaate nights.</li>
<li>The long nights don't bother them, but I'm getting too old for that crap. :)</li>
<li>It is COLD here in the ATL.</li>
<li>I need a heavier coat/jacket. The ones I have aren't cutting it.</li>
<li>Carl got an atta-boy from a man in Australia! It seems the guy's daughter was in our town visiting family. He couldn't reach her for about 24 hours so he called the PD to see if they would do a well-fare check on her. She was fine and Carl let the dad know. Since then, he has sent a letter to the Chief and is sending Carl a care package from Australia! How cool is that?! </li>
<li>Carl deals with the lowest of the low, so when something good like this happens I am thrilled for him. It boosts his morale, too.</li>
<li>I can't believe Christmas is just around the corner! Where did this year go?</li>
</ul>
That is about all I have right now. I'm sure there is more, but, suddenly, I have writer's block. <br />
<br />
Later taters!Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-77790985646471885492012-09-26T08:00:00.003-04:002012-09-26T08:02:48.837-04:00Learn a little respectDear Teenage Mom,<br />
<br />
First of all your infant daughter is beautiful. And I am so grateful she is too young to witness the altercation you had with another mom last night.<br />
<br />
You were at a band competition. The kids on that field work extremely hard to do what they do. They went to band camp in 90+ degree heat to learn music, their place on the field, and how to march. I hate to sound crass... but while you were busy "making" that baby, these kids were doing something to keep them OUT of your situation.<br />
<br />
Now...<br />
<br />
When these kids are playing on the field, the polite, mature, adult thing to do is shut your mouth. Don't sit there and carry on a loud conversation with the white-trash thugs sitting next to you. Do NOT laugh at a joke that is told. That sound travels to the field, so the kids down there think you are laughing at THEM. That negates a lot of their self esteem and makes them think they might be doing something wrong. NOT CUTE.<br />
<br />
And when a mom from another band <span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>(it wasn't me)</em></span> asks you, politely and in between performances, to please be quiet during the performance, do NOT jump down her throat and start yelling at her. That mother has paid a lot of money and time to be there to see these kids. You, on the other hand, have not.<br />
<br />
Do not raise your voice to her. Do not mock her. Do not cuss her out. Do not tell her "Go away, bitch. BYE BYE" and start waving. Do not say it was someone else when we all know it was you and your crew. And even better, do not do all of these said actions with your child sitting on your lap!<br />
<br />
I can only think you did not have parents that treated you with respect. You didn't have parents that supported you in your goals, dreams, or interests. Instead, you have to prove you are a "big girl" by having a child and trying to be all tough and sarcastic. <br />
<br />
I just feel sorry for your daughter; I hope she doesn't grow up to be like you. That would be a shame. I hope she decides she wants to be in band and, someday, you will have to confront an obnoxious, irritating, self-centered, angry child. Maybe then you will, in your mind, apologize to my friend that you treated with such disrespect.<br />
<br />
Regards,<br />
The proud mom of two wonderful, respectful, thoughtful, and polite childrenMarnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-10095588945465161932012-09-25T10:37:00.002-04:002012-09-25T10:37:31.377-04:00Driving and CryingMy baby boy is driving.<br />
<br />
His own car.<br />
<br />
OMG - when did that happen? <br />
<br />
It seems like yesterday he was cutting teeth, drooling, and trying to walk. Now he is driving to school, looking for a job, and growing into such a... a... MAN.<br />
<br />
Ugh.<br />
<br />
He also got his hair cut off. Until this weekend, he had bangs past his nose and collar. He likes to look like a hipster and thought it was the best way to prove his individuality (much to the dismay of his dad).<br />
<br />
We kept telling him to cut his hair while on the job hunt. Food places, especially, would not hire him with hair hanging in his face. Of course, he wouldn't listen to his PARENTS. It was when one of his working friends told him their hiring manager wouldn't even talk to him with hair "like that" he decided to get it done.<br />
<br />
I took him to a place on Saturday and told them we wanted the "Adam Levine"... and this is what we got! He looks SOOO much older and mature. He was so angry when it was getting shaved, but once the stylist spiked it, he loved it. <br />
<br />
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Where is my BABY? Times needs to stop!!!
Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-49961830404627505092012-08-28T15:10:00.002-04:002012-08-28T15:12:46.901-04:00TravelingI am in Texas this week for my job. I am an Instuctional Desinger - for those that don't know - which is a fancy term for "I write training". <br />
<br />
I have spent the better part of the last three months working on part of a two week training course that started last week. I was home for the first week training our ATL techs... this week I am in Texas training the folks here. The part of my team that was in Texas last week flip-flopped and are in ATL. It is only fair that we get do it that way so we can be home with our families instead of being gone for two weeks straight. <br />
<br />
But guess what that means? <br />
<br />
I have to fly through/around/over Hurricane Isaac tomorrow on my way home. <br />
<br />
yayyippiehallafreakinlooyah <br />
<br />
I am already a nervous flyer and the anticipation of bad-hurricane-type-turbulance is making me nauseous. BUT there is nothing I can do about it, right? I can only be prepared for the worst... and be happy when it goes smooth. <br />
<br />
Keep your fingers crossed for me. Please? Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-84496930411476330542012-08-21T11:28:00.001-04:002012-08-21T11:32:08.426-04:00HIIt's been a while... over a month... since I posted last.<br />
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All is well.<br />
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The kids are back in school. Both are in high school and marching in the band.<br />
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I'm hard at work and may be doing some traveling soon. Carl is working hard as usual.<br />
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Our puppy, Walker, has been sick the past couple of days. But what do you expect when a 65+ pound puppy eats anything on the ground? There is no telling what he picked up.<br />
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J-man rescued a kitten a couple of weeks ago. She looks like a miniature Jasmine... a tuxedo. But this is one fearless feline. Her name is Poppy and she lives up to her name. She is contantly popping out from under the furniture to attack feet, dogs, cats... really anything that comes by. She is cuh-ray-zee. But the sweetest little thing. This was taken the day after we brought her home. Couldn't you just eat her up?<br />
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I'm counting down the days to The Walking Dead coming back on, but I have a new obsession. Have you watched Sons of Anarchy? OMG. Love it as well. BUT it doesn't take the place of my zombie obssession.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What have you been up to? Does anyone even read this boring ol' blog anymore?</div>
Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-17308195089486532002012-07-19T10:20:00.001-04:002012-07-19T10:20:53.525-04:00Goofy or Brilliant?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg09f0C79iF4qZkzIZ2MDstZrqHHosA0_AEpY6EI-fi1BISqrzuDOv_M2Ekgp-T4Bk25MHonzLeVYHL5LuExjHI7y-PIrx0WsVys-pM2_QrwNMT5tWN1cR3WQWFLXU9X4OktaJbDA/s1600/umbrellahat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg09f0C79iF4qZkzIZ2MDstZrqHHosA0_AEpY6EI-fi1BISqrzuDOv_M2Ekgp-T4Bk25MHonzLeVYHL5LuExjHI7y-PIrx0WsVys-pM2_QrwNMT5tWN1cR3WQWFLXU9X4OktaJbDA/s1600/umbrellahat.jpg" /></a></div>
See that over there? ----><br />
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It is an umbrella hat in case you don't know.<br />
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J-man asked me to get it for him... to wear at band camp.<br />
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He is either goofy or brilliant.<br />
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Either way I love it... and him... for his creativity and ability to have fun not matter how strange it may seem.Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-66716403438731924952012-06-27T20:57:00.002-04:002012-07-02T07:14:54.545-04:00Need to put a brick on their headsMy mom took the kids to Dollywood in Pigeon Forge last week and while there she took this picture. Sorry, but it takes my breath away. When did they get so big? <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd7hjjY8G5wUtiXj0xr9kqpEmMAQ_PLm2GmSrXfPLez2H_GML1NKbptOP5Y8u9bBNlhFksV6yzZtIzqFETZ69M9AljDBmQtKrSA0zq-ccW8E3Yfk3uIFwRERVTf-pF_KfEUYGRdA/s1600/jarrettjordanmountain.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd7hjjY8G5wUtiXj0xr9kqpEmMAQ_PLm2GmSrXfPLez2H_GML1NKbptOP5Y8u9bBNlhFksV6yzZtIzqFETZ69M9AljDBmQtKrSA0zq-ccW8E3Yfk3uIFwRERVTf-pF_KfEUYGRdA/s320/jarrettjordanmountain.png" width="240" /></a></div>Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-83245907217527688932012-06-27T06:53:00.000-04:002012-06-27T06:53:07.207-04:00We Got LuckyJ-man has a part-time gig this summer... he is cutting the grass for one of our neighbors. He enjoys it. He feels like a grown-up making his own decisions about when it is time to cut it... and the money ain't bad either!<br />
<br />
As his parents, Carl and I have only place one requirement on this job. He cannot do it unless one of us is home. He is working with deadly machinery and you never know what can happen. Ya know what I mean? <br />
<br />
When I got home from work yesterday he told me he was going to go down there. I told him to take some water and to take a break every once in a while because it was HOT. He took off. I heard the mower crank up... and then stop about 15 minutes later. I thought "good! break time!'<br />
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Then he came barreling in the door.... grimacing.<br />
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Trying not to panic I looked at him and asked what was wrong.<br />
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"I ran over an in-ground hornet's nest. One got me on the back of the leg."<br />
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He turned around, and sure enough, there is a big ol' lump on his calf.<br />
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He said that when he saw the swarm begin, he took off running. He said his knees were hitting his chin he was running so hard and fast. The image of that made me laugh. Luckily, he didn't get stung anywhere else.<br />
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After Carl got home, they went down to take another look and to spray some bug killer on the nest. Carl said the hole is about golf-ball size and there were tons of them flying around. They put what little spray we had on them, but it didn't get them all. They went and bought more to go apply it this morning.<br />
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We got lucky. Now that it has passed, I can see J-man getting swarmed and stung over and over. I can see him not being able to get home to safety. That scares me to death! But I can't tell him that... He was a brave guy that is taking care of his business. He kept pacing around the house saying "I don't know what to do! I need to get it done!" He takes his job seriously.<br />
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I'm just happy he got away safely.Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-4770383432952018572012-05-31T07:42:00.000-04:002012-05-31T07:42:40.521-04:00Proud MamaI am in Dallas, TX this week for a class so I am a little out of the loop for news on the homefront. <br />
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Carl texted me during class to say he is a proud papa. Not knowing what that really meant I had to wait on a break to call him for clarification. My mind was whirling... did Walker learn a new trick? Did Dozer do something new?<br />
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Why didn't I think about the kids? They are with my dad for the week. They crossed my mind quickly, but... what could they do without Carl to witness it?<br />
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Anywhoo... I called at break and, low and behold, it WAS about a kid. J-man to be exact. Carl had gone to the high school to pick up his report card.<br />
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He passed ALL of his classes. <u>ALL OF THEM</u>.<br />
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He is going to be a Junior next year.<br />
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I am so freakin' proud of him. I nearly cried in the hallway of the facility. I had to take several deep breaths before I could talk. <br />
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Wow. <br />
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The kid has turned a corner, has a goal in mind, and is working hard to achieve it.<br />
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Wow.Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-56318737609820170672012-05-23T08:17:00.002-04:002012-05-23T08:17:21.803-04:00OfficialIt is official... I will have two kids in high school next year.<br />
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Bug has passed the 8th grade and is moving on. She is excited and yet so nervous. I can't say I blame her either; that is a huge transition. <br />
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She will be joining the marching band with her brother, so I think that will help tremendously. It will bring her out of her shy shell and help her with confidence. I can't wait to see it happen. <br />
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Now we wait to see if J-man made up enough credits to be a Junior next year. Keep your fingers crossed and send us some good vibes.Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-43027986190754912652012-05-21T14:11:00.001-04:002012-05-21T14:11:56.099-04:00Season Three Preview<object id="flashObj" width="300" height="225" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,47,0"><param name="movie" value="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="flashVars" value="videoId=1646364047001&playerID=83327935001&playerKey=AQ~~,AAAAAAuyCbQ~,-gfAmfm8njJ8S-9E4q2UfzG931rvkxuP&domain=embed&dynamicStreaming=true" /><param name="base" value="http://admin.brightcove.com" /><param name="seamlesstabbing" value="false" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="swLiveConnect" value="true" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><embed src="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1" bgcolor="#FFFFFF" flashVars="videoId=1646364047001&playerID=83327935001&playerKey=AQ~~,AAAAAAuyCbQ~,-gfAmfm8njJ8S-9E4q2UfzG931rvkxuP&domain=embed&dynamicStreaming=true" base="http://admin.brightcove.com" name="flashObj" width="300" height="225" seamlesstabbing="false" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowFullScreen="true" swLiveConnect="true" allowScriptAccess="always" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/shockwave/download/index.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash"></embed></object><p>OMG y'all... I cannot wait for October! I am jonesing for some zombies!</p>Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-12836852528471528182012-05-16T08:06:00.002-04:002012-05-16T08:08:18.040-04:00Extreme DecafI was headed up the stairs for bed last night when I realized I hadn't set up the coffee maker for the morning. Being too lazy to head back down, I yelled to Carl and asked him if he minded doing it for me.<br />
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C: Sure! 6 cups of water and 3 scoops, right?<br />
M: You betcha! Thank you SO much!<br />
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Fast foward to this morning. I hear the coffee maker brewing and am anticipating filling up my mugs before I head out the door. (I drink one on the way to work and have a thermos with my re-fill.) I wash out the mug and thermos and grab the creamer (York Peppermint Patty - A MUST). I turn toward the coffee maker and stop.<br />
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I started laughing, but I didn't want to hurt Carl's feelings. I said "Honey. I truly appreciate your effort last night, but in order to brew a cup of coffee you need to include COFFEE." I opened the top of the coffee maker and, sure enough, the filter was there but completely empty. The pot was full of hot water.<br />
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He was flabbergasted. I, on the other hand, went to Dunkin Donuts.Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-91600273345999042152012-05-13T06:53:00.001-04:002012-05-13T06:53:13.631-04:00Mother's DayWe had plans to go to Six Flags with my mom today, but it is raining like crazy so we cancelled. Instead we will Skype in a few hours and see each other that way. It isn't ideal but it will work! Gas is way too high to travel anywhere.... probably not a good excuse, but that is the way it is at Pug Manor.<br />
<br />
Plus we have to save our $$ to head to Texas when the call comes. Carl's mom is VERY sick. She is on home dialysis because her kidneys are failing. According to Carl's brother it is only a matter of time. We plan on visiting in July and Bobby said not to wait past that. It is bad. At this point it isn't a matter of "if" but "when". Carl is handling it OK... he is worried but that is understandable. So we wait. If Bobby calls and says "you need to be here"... we are GONE.<br />
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Hugs to all of you. Have a wonderful Mother's Day. If your mom is here, call her, hug her, Skype her... just tell her. If she is not... send up the same loving thoughts. She'll hear.<br />Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-81393687637544567402012-04-27T07:48:00.000-04:002012-04-27T07:49:28.213-04:00BlossomingMy sweet, beautiful, shy little girl is blossoming. <br />
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We took her to the high school last night for a tour and to look at all of the activities available to her. I didn't think she would want to participate in anything because she is EXTREMELY shy. I mean, this is the girl that has a hard time ordering for herself in a restaurant. Whenever we meet new people, she stands behind my left shoulder and peeks around. The girl is crazy shy until you get to know her. <br />
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She has been debating for months about whether or not to join the marching band. She thinks everyone will be staring at her and her alone. We have talked to her about it, and J-man has finally convinced her that band would be great for her. So that is the first thing she has agreed to. <br />
<br />
Then we talked to clubs... and my baby joined THREE! She has decided to participate in French Club, Quiz Bowl, and DRAMA!!! <br />
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I have a feeling her high school experience is going to be totally different than J-man's. He has devoted all of his time to band. Bug, on the other hand, will use her experience to be a social butterfly. I hope these clubs bring her out of her shell and everyone can experience her like we do. Her funny, sweet, silly self. <br />
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I can't wait to see it.Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-86031474903555284042012-04-16T14:41:00.007-04:002012-04-16T14:51:10.026-04:00Have you seen these?Watch this instructional video on how to pronounce January...<br /><br /><iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/6rpcW7n6K8I" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br />NOW... go watch the others on that channel...<br /><br />My favorites include:<br /><br /><strong>Cappucino </strong><br /><iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/3JpOsE4f5hc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br /><strong>Bidet</strong><br /><iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Op6moV8kGtQ" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br />For some reason, these struck my funny bone and I have laughed so hard it brought tears. It doesn't take much, folks. It doesn't take much.Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-30545801397218340272012-04-02T06:59:00.003-04:002012-04-02T07:03:05.688-04:00Mean mamaMe: (turning away from the computer) OH NO! We have to take Walker back to the animal shelter.<br /><br />Bug: WHY?<br /><br />Me: They have a 30 day "change your mind" policy and his mom decided she wants him after all. She has requested him back<br /><br />Bug: (About to cry) NO, Mom! He is ours now! I love him!<br /><br />Me: Sorry honey. We need to get him in the car.<br /><br />Bug: MOOOOOOM!<br /><br />Me: April Fools!!!!!!<br /><br />And peace was restored at Pug Manor.Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28046812.post-64241667567291473922012-04-01T04:37:00.005-04:002012-04-01T04:56:32.198-04:00Never tell your husband you have puppy fever<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9NL9xbhXoTSrWkVWRTNH5Wl-xY0VBbHn7oBJNMgwqAkUBakQjOma1TAnPtYK4WNHWya4HkEhRtpY0GhnwUhCQX3oSEECZ3Y9cj4FKjcNl7EbP0eRLmwLfgOcrPkdr04oRrTcXHw/s1600/Walker.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 191px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9NL9xbhXoTSrWkVWRTNH5Wl-xY0VBbHn7oBJNMgwqAkUBakQjOma1TAnPtYK4WNHWya4HkEhRtpY0GhnwUhCQX3oSEECZ3Y9cj4FKjcNl7EbP0eRLmwLfgOcrPkdr04oRrTcXHw/s320/Walker.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5726348778205664690" /></a>See that handsome boy over there? <br /><br />Meet Walker.<br /><br />He is a 10 week old black lab that we picked up from animal control, and is the new love of my life.<br /><br />Grimmy passed away a little over a year ago. Our little family seemed complete, but lately I felt like we were missing something. I started dreaming about puppies and seeing them everywhere. I didn't want to get one! I was only thinking about them... A LOT.<br /><br />One day, a couple of weeks ago, I told Carl I had puppy fever. Well... if you know Carl you will know that when I tell him something like that he won't stop until he fulfills that wish. (Baby fever NEVER comes out of this mouth... EVER)<br /><br />This weekend we were browsing our county's animal shelter website and saw two puppies... one named Sunny (A blonde lab/retriever mix) and Bear (a black lab). We look at this site occasionally but never felt drawn to any animals until we saw these two. So, on a whim, we decided to go to the shelter and look at them in person; to check out their personalities.<br /><br />The "pod" that Sunny was in was closed. So we walked past soooo many cages of puppies/dogs of all shapes and sizes and breeds... it truly broke my heart. And then we spotted "Bear".<br /><br />And that was all she wrote. I fought it. I really did. I didn't want a puppy... but... but... OMG. He is the sweetest, funniest, silliest thing ever. And he attached himself immediately to Bug. He follows her everywhere.<br /><br />So he is at Pug Manor with a new name. Dozer is adjusting... he is so submissive that Walker walks all over him. He is 23 pounds - yes at 10 weeks - of love and playfulness. His head already comes up to my knees. This boy is gonna be HUGE. We are ALL following him around trying to potty train him. If I say "What are you doing, Walker?" or "Go outside, Walker." one more time I may scream!<br /><br />Carl is excited. The kids are excited. I'm happy but am still adjusting. I mean, look who is up at 4a.m. to take him outside! The kids said "I'll hear him if he barks." Yeah. Right.Marnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03543853940645527249noreply@blogger.com3